Best UK spots for your summer staycation

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Staycation season is well and truly here, with more families looking closer to home for their next break. If you are planning your next trip, the UK has plenty of destinations that offer the feeling of a proper summer holiday without the stress of airports or long overseas journeys. 

Here are some places we recommend visiting.

Cornwall

For a classic seaside escape, Cornwall remains hard to beat. Beaches, harbour towns, coastal walks, surfing and fish and chips all combine to create the full summer holiday experience. St Ives, Falmouth, Newquay and Looe are all strong bases for families looking to mix beach days with boat trips and local food.

South Wales

South Wales is ideal for anyone wanting a staycation that feels a little different. Cardiff offers a compact city break with its castle, waterfront, parks, markets and museums, while nearby Caerphilly Castle and Castell Coch bring Welsh history to life. It’s a great option for families who want culture, scenery and easy exploring in one trip.

The Cotswolds

If your idea of a perfect break involves countryside pubs, market towns and relaxed walks, the Cotswolds is a strong choice. Villages such as Moreton-in-Marsh and Kingham offer easy access to rolling countryside, gardens, farm parks and traditional pub lunches.

Bath

Bath is perfect for a hassle-free city staycation. Its bustling centre makes it easy to explore the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, Pulteney Bridge and Royal Crescent on foot, with plenty of cafés, parks and riverside walks for slower afternoons.

Bristol

For culture and food, Bristol makes a lively summer escape. Its harbourside is packed with museums, galleries, boat trips and places to eat, while the city’s street art scene gives it a creative edge.

Plymouth

Plymouth is a great choice for families who love the coast but also want plenty to do if the weather turns. Plymouth Hoe, the Barbican, the National Marine Aquarium and Royal William Yard all make it a varied waterfront break.

With travel costs still front of mind for many families, the best UK staycations prove you don’t have to go far to enjoy a memorable summer holiday.

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Essentials to stay safe for your next caravan holiday

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For many caravan owners, summer is the highlight of the touring calendar. Whether you’re planning a weekend by the coast, a countryside escape or a longer UK tour, a little preparation before you set off can make all the difference.

While it’s easy to focus on booking campsites and planning routes, ensuring your caravan is equipped with the right essentials can help your holiday run smoothly from start to finish.

5 must-haves for your next caravan holiday

Here’s a checklist of what we recommend bringing on your holiday to ensure a stress-free break.

Start with the basics

Before any trip, it’s worth checking your caravan’s tyres, lights, brakes and battery. Make sure your gas bottles are topped up and test all onboard appliances before departure. A quick inspection at home is far easier than dealing with unexpected problems on-site.

Protect your caravan on the road

Long summer journeys can expose caravans to road debris, insects and general wear-and-tear. A towing cover can help protect the front of your caravan while travelling, particularly on longer motorway journeys.

Don’t forget levelling equipment

Levelling ramps are an essential part of any touring kit, helping ensure appliances work correctly and making your stay more comfortable. Few things are more frustrating than arriving on site and discovering your caravan isn’t sitting level.

Prepare for life on site

Small accessories can often make the biggest difference. Waste pipe vent plugs help reduce unwanted odours around your pitch, while environmentally friendly toilet fluids can help keep your sanitation system running efficiently throughout your stay.

Motorhome owners need preparation too

If you’re travelling by motorhome, don’t overlook cab protection. Windscreen covers, mirror protectors and cab mats can help keep your vehicle cooler during hot weather while protecting it from everyday wear.

The best caravan holidays are often the ones where everything simply works. A little preparation before you leave home, combined with a few carefully chosen touring essentials, can help you spend less time dealing with problems and more time enjoying the freedom of the open road.

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Don’t let a flat battery ruin your caravan trip this season

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After months in storage, many caravans, motorhomes and campervans are finally being dusted off ready for summer adventures. But before you hitch up or turn the key, there’s one often-overlooked check that could save you a lot of frustration: your battery.

Specialists at CTEK explain that battery-related problems are one of the most common causes of breakdowns and delayed trips at the start of the touring season, particularly for vehicles that have spent the winter parked up.

Even when not in use, batteries gradually lose charge. Modern vehicles can also continue drawing power for alarms, trackers and onboard electronics, while cold winter temperatures can further reduce battery performance.

Johan Ignatius Strömer, marketing manager at battery specialist CTEK, said: “For many motorhome owners, the first trip of the season is something they’ve been looking forward to for months.” However, he warns that “batteries don’t enjoy sitting idle” and recommends carrying out a battery health check before setting off.

So what should caravan owners be checking before their first trip? Here’s what they suggest:

  • Make sure both your starter battery and leisure battery are fully charged. A battery that appears to be working may still be operating below its optimum level after months of inactivity.
  • Inspect battery terminals and electrical connections for signs of corrosion or loose fittings, both of which can affect reliability and charging performance.
  • Regularly perform maintenance charging throughout the year to help extend battery life and prevent deterioration during long periods of storage.
  • Pack a portable jump starter on your trip, especially if you’re heading off-grid or touring in more remote locations. A flat battery can derail travel plans and be a safety concern when you’re stuck miles from the nearest garage or recovery service.

These few simple battery checks should help you travel safely and with better peace of mind this season.

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Six simple safety tips for motorhome travel

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Travelling with your motorhome gives you freedom, flexibility and plenty of home comforts on the road. But before you set off, it’s worth taking a little time to make sure your vehicle is safe for the journey ahead. Keep these six tips in mind to ensure your family’s safety when using your leisure vehicle.

1. Check your gas system

Before travelling, make sure gas bottles are secure and turned off when not in use. Always use appliances according to the manufacturer’s instructions and never block ventilation points.

2. Be fire aware

Keep a suitable fire extinguisher and fire blanket on board and make sure everyone knows where they are. Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms regularly, especially before longer trips.

3. Watch your weight

Overloading your motorhome can affect handling, braking and fuel efficiency. Check your vehicle’s weight limits and distribute luggage evenly, keeping heavier items low and secure.

4. Secure everything before driving

Loose items can become hazards on the move. Close cupboards, lock drawers and make sure tables, bikes, awnings and outdoor gear are properly secured before setting off.

5. Plan safe stops

Choose well-lit, approved campsites or recognised motorhome stopovers where possible. Avoid parking somewhere that feels isolated, unsafe or unsuitable for overnight stays.

6. Do basic checks before each journey

Before you leave, check tyre pressure, oil, water, lights and mirrors. It’s also sensible to inspect your tyres for cracks or damage, particularly if your motorhome has been parked up for a while.

A few simple safety habits can make every trip smoother, safer and more enjoyable, leaving you free to enjoy your adventure.

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Keeping your pet cool during summer motorhome and caravan adventures

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Summer is one of the best times to hit the road in a motorhome or caravan, and for many owners, that means bringing a four-legged companion along for the journey. Here are some tips to keep your travel buddy cool during your adventures. 

Plan your travel times

If possible, travel during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoons. This can make the journey more comfortable for both you and your pet, especially during periods of hot weather.

Keep water within easy reach

Fresh drinking water is essential when temperatures rise. Make sure your pet has access to water throughout the day and bring a portable bowl for walks, rest stops and days out.

Never leave pets in your vehicle

Motorhomes and caravans can become surprisingly warm, even when parked in the shade. If you’re heading somewhere pets aren’t allowed, it’s often best to leave them at your campsite with a trusted family member than to risk them overheating.

Create a cool space

Cooling mats, shaded areas and good ventilation can help your pet stay comfortable. On particularly warm days, close blinds on sun-facing windows and open vents where safe to do so.

Take regular breaks

When travelling longer distances, stop regularly so your pet can stretch their legs, have a drink and enjoy some fresh air.

Know the signs of heatstroke

Excessive panting, drooling, lethargy and difficulty breathing can all be signs of overheating. If you’re concerned about your pet, seek veterinary advice immediately.

With a little planning, you and your pet can enjoy a safe, comfortable and memorable summer touring season.

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Motorhomes added to inflation basket as popularity continues to grow

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Motorhomes have been added to the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) basket of goods and services for the first time, highlighting just how popular this way of travelling has become with UK holidaymakers.

The CPI basket is used to track inflation and includes products and services that reflect how people spend their money. New additions are typically introduced when demand and household spending increase, making the inclusion of motorhomes a notable moment for the leisure vehicle sector.

Motorhome ownership on the rise

The announcement follows reports that demand for motorhomes and campervans on Gumtree has jumped by 133 per cent since the start of the year.

According to the Office for National Statistics, items can be added to the CPI basket when they represent a growing area of consumer spending. With more people embracing touring holidays and the freedom of travelling at their own pace, it’s perhaps no surprise to see motorhomes make the list.

Mark Sheppard from motorhome insurance specialist Safeguard commented:”The increasing interest in motorhomes and campervans tallies with our own research which reveals that almost half (44 per cent) of British drivers would like to buy a motorhome or campervan in 2026.”

Don’t overlook insurance

While the growing popularity of motorhomes is good news for the sector, there is one important detail that prospective owners should be aware of.

Research commissioned by Safeguard found that 40 per cent of drivers did not realise it’s illegal to drive a motorhome or campervan without a dedicated insurance policy separate from standard car insurance.

“For peace of mind, we would suggest every motorhome and campervan owner speaks to an insurance broker and ensures they’re suitably and legally covered before getting behind the wheel,” added Mr Sheppard.

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New Forestry England trial offers overnight stays for motorhomesNew Forestry England trial offers overnight stays for motorhomes

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For years, many motorhome and campervan owners have looked enviously at Scotland’s popular Stay the Night scheme, which encourages responsible overnight parking in designated locations.

Now, Forestry England is taking a step in a similar direction, launching a 60-day trial that will allow campervans and motorhomes to stay overnight at selected forest sites across England this summer.

Running from 16th July to 14th September, the trial will offer pre-bookable overnight stopovers at seven locations:

  • Bedgebury National Pinetum, Kent
  • Jeskyns Community Woodland, Kent
  • High Lodge, Thetford Forest, Suffolk
  • Wendover Woods, Buckinghamshire
  • Cardinham Woods, Cornwall
  • Gisburn Forest, Lancashire
  • Kielder Castle, Northumberland

“We’re seeing a real shift in how people think about travel,” Nicola Thompson, CEO of rooftop tent brand TentBox, said. “Rising costs and uncertainty are pushing people to look for alternatives that give them more freedom and better value.”

While the Forestry England trial is aimed at campervans and motorhomes, it also highlights a broader trend towards what many are calling “microadventures” – short, spontaneous escapes that don’t require extensive planning or significant expense.

The growth of rooftop tents, compact camper conversions and other alternative camping setups suggests that more people are looking for flexible ways to explore the UK without committing to the cost of a dedicated leisure vehicle.

For caravan and motorhome owners, however, the biggest takeaway may be the willingness of land managers to explore new ways of accommodating overnight stays. If successful, the trial could provide valuable evidence that responsible overnight parking can support local tourism while helping visitors enjoy England’s forests in a different way.

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Heatwave touring: 5 mistakes caravan and motorhome owners should avoid

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For many caravan and motorhome owners, a heatwave is the perfect excuse to head off on an impromptu adventure. But while the sunshine may be welcome, soaring temperatures can create challenges both on the road and at the campsite.

According to breakdown experts at The AA, heatwaves often trigger a surge in call-outs as vehicles struggle with long journeys, heavy traffic and increased strain on key components.

Greg Carter, technical specialist at The AA, says preparation is key. “A few simple checks and smart choices can help drivers stay safe, cool and fine-free all summer long,” he explains.

With more heatwaves becoming a feature of UK summers, a little planning can help ensure your next touring adventure is remembered for the right reasons.

Here are five common mistakes to avoid before setting off.

1. Skipping pre-trip vehicle checks

Hot weather can expose underlying vehicle issues that may have gone unnoticed during cooler months. Before travelling, check coolant and engine oil levels, inspect tyre condition and pressures, test air conditioning and ensure your battery is in good health.

For caravanners, it’s also worth checking the condition and pressure of caravan tyres, which can be particularly vulnerable in high temperatures.

2. Ignoring the effects of hay fever

Summer touring often coincides with peak pollen season. The AA warns that severe hay fever can affect concentration and reaction times, while some medications may cause drowsiness. If symptoms are particularly bad, consider delaying your journey or sharing driving duties where possible.

3. Travelling during the hottest part of the day

Driving a motorhome or towing a caravan in heavy traffic during extreme heat can be tiring for both vehicle and driver.

Early mornings and evenings are often more comfortable for long journeys, helping to reduce fatigue and avoid the busiest roads.

4. Forgetting to pack for delays

Breakdowns, congestion and accidents can quickly leave travellers stranded in hot conditions. Always carry drinking water, snacks and a means of keeping cool, particularly if travelling with children, pets or older passengers.

5. Leaving pets in vehicles

It may sound obvious, but it’s always worth stressing. Temperatures inside caravans, motorhomes and cars can rise rapidly, even when parked in the shade. So, it’s important to never leave animals unattended during a heatwave.

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7 tips to make a small caravan feel bigger

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If you own a compact touring caravan, making the most of limited space can have a big impact on comfort and enjoyment. Fortunately, a few simple design tricks can help create a brighter, more spacious feel without major renovations.

  1. Choose light colours

Light shades such as white, cream and soft grey reflect natural light and make interiors feel more open. Consider pale walls, cabinetry and furnishings to create an airy atmosphere.

  1. Keep ceilings white

A white ceiling helps draw the eye upwards and can make a caravan feel taller than it really is. It’s a simple but effective way to add a sense of space.

  1. Use mirrors strategically

Mirrors bounce light around a room and create the illusion of depth. Placing a mirror opposite a window can make a small area feel significantly larger.

  1. Create flooring continuity

Using the same flooring throughout the caravan helps the space flow more naturally. Avoiding abrupt changes between zones can make the interior feel larger and less cluttered.

  1. Maximise natural light

Keep window coverings light and simple where possible. Allowing more daylight into the caravan instantly creates a more open and welcoming environment.

  1. Invest in smart storage

Overhead shelving makes use of otherwise wasted space, while slide-out baskets can improve access to items stored deep within cabinets. These help avoid clutter and make the space feel bigger.

  1. Choose multi-functional furniture

Fold-down tables, ottomans with hidden storage and sofa beds can provide flexibility without taking up valuable floor space.


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China’s All in Caravaning event highlights leisure vehicle’s global boom

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Caravanning may be a well-established pastime in the UK, but it’s increasingly becoming a global phenomenon too.

That was clear at All in CARAVANING (AIC), one of Asia’s largest caravanning and camping events, which took place in Beijing last month, showcasing the growing appetite for motorhomes, caravans and outdoor lifestyles across China.

The event brought together around 200 brands and covered 30,000 square metres of exhibition space, with manufacturers displaying everything from touring vehicles and camping equipment to the latest accessories and technology.

Stefan Koschke, Director of the CARAVAN SALON Caravanning & Outdoor Portfolio, said: “As infrastructure conditions in China continue to improve, we believe in the considerable potential of the Chinese caravanning market.”

China’s caravanning market has grown alongside rising interest in domestic tourism, road trips and outdoor recreation. Organisers described holidays in motorhomes, caravans and camping breaks as “extremely popular” and pointed to continued investment in infrastructure as a key driver of future growth.

The exhibition also highlighted China’s growing role as a manufacturing force within the global caravanning industry. Alongside dozens of domestic motorhome and caravan brands, major suppliers of batteries, accessories and vehicle components used across the sector showcased their latest innovations.

For British caravan owners, that could become increasingly relevant in the years ahead, with Chinese manufacturers playing a bigger role in the global supply chain and helping drive innovation in areas such as battery technology, off-grid power and vehicle electrification.

While the UK remains one of the world’s most mature caravanning markets, events such as AIC show that enthusiasm for caravans, motorhomes and camping adventures is growing fast around the globe.

Image: Supplied

New short-term cover aims to simplify motorhome borrowing

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A new temporary motorhome insurance product has launched in the UK, offering flexible cover for drivers borrowing a motorhome or campervan for short periods.

Insurance provider GoShorty has expanded its range of temporary vehicle insurance products with the introduction of motorhome cover available from one to 28 days. The move comes as interest in staycations, road trips and peer-to-peer vehicle sharing continues to grow.

For many motorhome owners, lending a vehicle to friends or family can be complicated by insurance concerns. Standard annual policies often don’t cover additional drivers, while adding someone temporarily can affect premiums or claims histories.

GoShorty says its new policy has been designed to address that issue by allowing the borrower to take out their own standalone insurance. Any claims would be handled separately from the owner’s policy, helping to protect their No Claims Discount.

Phil Evans, managing director at GoShorty, believes demand for this type of cover is increasing. He said: “The motorhome sector, in particular, has seen a rise in peer-to-peer borrowing, particularly in 2026 with the cost of foreign travel soaring and staycations set to rise.

“Motorhomes and campervans are all about freedom, and our temporary insurance solution is designed to give customers just that.”

These platforms provide access to a wider range of motorhomes and campervans without the costs associated with ownership. As more travellers look to explore the UK by road, flexible insurance products are becoming increasingly important, whether for borrowing a family member’s motorhome for a weekend break or taking a longer touring holiday.

GoShorty has confirmed that further specialist temporary insurance products, including cover for taxi drivers and delivery drivers, are also due to launch in the coming months.

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Popular VanLife Fest returns to North Yorkshire this summer

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VanLife Fest – one of the UK’s best-known celebrations of campervan culture – is set to return this summer, bringing together van owners, outdoor enthusiasts and families for a weekend dedicated to life on the road.

The festival will take place at Scampston Hall near Malton, North Yorkshire, from 19th to 21st June, offering everything from live music and vehicle displays to family activities, expert talks and a bustling trade village.

While campervans and motorhomes remain at the heart of the event, VanLife Fest has evolved into much more than a vehicle show. It has become a gathering point for the growing van life culture, attracting everyone from seasoned tourers to those considering their first campervan adventure.

Visitors can expect to browse a wide range of campervan accessories, outdoor equipment and lifestyle products, while a new Coffee Club area will host talks, demonstrations and stories from members of the community.

The event also shines a spotlight on the creativity behind modern campervan ownership. Owners will have the chance to showcase their vehicles in competitions including Best Daily Driver and Best Self-Build, highlighting the innovation and individuality that have become synonymous with the van life movement.

Families are well catered for too, with attractions including circus skills, climbing walls and archery, alongside live entertainment running throughout the weekend.

This gathering reflects the continued popularity of leisure vehicle travel across the UK. With more people embracing staycations, road trips and flexible outdoor adventures, campervan culture has experienced significant growth in recent years.

Festivals like VanLife Fest offer a chance to connect with like-minded travellers, discover new products and gain inspiration for future trips. They also provide an opportunity to experience the sense of community that has become one of the defining features of the van life scene.

Regardless of where you are in your journey with caravan culture, VanLife Fest promises a packed programme celebrating the freedom, creativity and adventure that continue to attract more people to life on the road.

Image: VanLife