Roadtrips to take with your leisure vehicle in 2025

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Having access to a caravan or motorhome offers the opportunity to go away on extended trips without blowing the budget.

A roadtrip enables you to fully explore an area and open yourself up to the possibility of spontaneous adventures along the way.

There are lots of potential roadtrips in Europe to undertake with your leisure vehicle in 2025, so which ones do we at CaravanTimes recommend?

Andalusia and Extremedura

Known as “the frying pan of Europe”, Andalusia is hot in the summer months and relatively warm throughout winter compared to other destinations.

Its historic cities, including Granada, Seville and Cordoba, are well-known as fascinating places to visit and easy to travel between in your caravan or campervan.

Extend your Spanish touring adventure beyond Andalusia and into Extremedura, which has long been unfairly overlooked.

This unspoilt, rural region of Spain borders Portugal and is steeped in history, wildlife and local cuisine, including Iberian hams, goats cheeses and chorizo.

Visit Monfragüe National Park, see the fascinating giant boulders in Los Barruecos and explore the walled city of Caceres.

The Norwegian fjords

Norway is a stunning country to explore with your leisure vehicle, with its impressive scenery and plentiful opportunities to pitch up.

Be sure to include the 15 km-long Geirangerfjord on your itinerary, as this UNESCO World Heritage Site with its deep blue waters is set against towering mountain peaks for dramatic impact.

Ferries depart from Harwich to Hoek van Holland, Hull to Rotterdam and Newcastle to Amsterdam, from where you can drive to Norway.

Plans to reinstate ferry routes from Newcastle to Stavanger and Bergen are slated for 2026, so you could start planning your Norway trip for next year.

Make sure your leisure vehicle is suitable for driving on the narrow and winding roads around the fjords, as well as in adverse Norwegian weather conditions.

Amalfi Coast and islands, Italy

Italy’s Amalfi Coast is an iconic roadtrip destination, not because of its size, as at just 50 kilometres in length, you could easily cover it in one day, but because of what it packs into that space.

Pastel-coloured fishing villages are dotted along sheer cliffs and hidden beaches can be found all along the southern edge of the Sorrentine Peninsula.

To make the most of having a leisure vehicle in this part of Italy, travel slowly and stop off at local trattorias for lunch and secluded swimming spots for a dip.

Then there’s the islands of Procida, Ischia and Capri to explore, each one with its own distinct personality and charm.

Plan your roadtrip to the Amalfi Coast to take in some stunning destinations on the way, with France, Switzerland, Germany and Austria all possibilities, depending on your route.

Escorted tours with the Caravan and Motorhome Club

If you’re new to the leisure vehicle lifestyle and want some extra assurance for your first trip to the continent, the Caravan and Motorhome Club offers escorted tours to more than 20 destinations in Europe.

These itineraries have been carefully put together by knowledgeable caravan and motorhome experts and give you the peace of mind that comes from having a tour host close to hand.

They’re a great way to gain confidence in this way of travelling before perhaps planning your own trip in the future.



 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Stijn de Vries

Stargazing locations with the most campervan-friendly campsites

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The UK is home to some incredible stargazing spots, unspoilt by light pollution, offering unparalleled views of the night sky.

Due to the fact that they’re away from cities and often in national parks, they can seem inaccessible to those wishing to enjoy them.

This is where having a campervan comes into its own, allowing you to get away from the hustle and bustle of modern life and explore the cosmos.

So, which locations in the UK have good stargazing conditions and the facilities and amenities to make visiting them in a campervan easy?

Select Van Leasing has created a rundown of the places that should top your list, taking into account everything from Dark Sky status and expert recommendations to elevation and the number of campervan-friendly campsites in the vicinity.

Eryri National Park (Snowdonia), Wales

Leading the way with an impressive 70 per cent of its campsites catering to campervans is Eryri National Park, as 109 out of 155 sites offer facilities designed for campervan visitors.

Eryri was designated an International Dark Sky Reserve in 2015 and with no fewer than 90 mountains over 2,000 ft, there’s plenty of opportunities to get up high to see the stars.

The Pen y Pass car park sits at an elevation of 1,180 ft, making it the perfect place to park up and watch the sky.

A representative from Select Van Leasing said: “Travelling in a campervan is a great way to explore Eryri, as it helps you discover all the different stargazing locations in just one trip.

“It’s not permitted to stay overnight in a car park in a campervan or motorhome, so booking one of the many campervan-friendly campsites is the best option.”

Cairngorms National Park, Scotland

Scotland’s Cairngorms National Park secured second place in the rankings of the best stargazing destinations in the UK.

The largest national park in the country covers 4,500 sq km of unspoilt countryside, with the Glenlivet and Tomintoul area among the best places to look skywards.

In addition to its Dark Sky status, which was granted in 2018, Glenlivet and Tomintoul is home to Britain’s only herd of reindeer.

The Cairngorm Mountain car park near Aviemore is located at the base of the ski lift, but is a great spot for stargazing and even watching the Aurora Borealis.

Overnight stays are permitted at the car park, with provisions for campervans and motorhomes in place.

Northumberland National Park, England

Located in the north, Northumberland National Park, along with most of Kielder Water and Forest Park, holds the distinction of being England’s first International Dark Sky Park.

It was designated in 2013 and remains Europe’s largest protected area of night sky to this day, making it a must-visit for any budding astrophile.

On a clear night, thousands of stars are visible with the naked eye, as well as the Milky Way and the Andromeda Galaxy, which is located 2.5 million light years away.

Kielder Observatory holds events seven days a week, focusing on different areas, from relaxed astronomy to stargazing photography skills.

Lordenshaw Hill Fort car park near Rothbury is a good starting point to climb up to the Lordenshaw Rock ancient monument for uninterrupted views of the Cheviots and the night sky.



 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Amy Gatenby

Why you should make caravan and motorhome New Year’s resolutions

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Research suggests most New Year’s resolutions fail by the second week of February, so is there any point in making them in the first place?

Here at CaravanTimes, we think New Year’s resolutions relating to your caravan, motorhome or campervan are a great idea and they don’t have to be as rigid as some people believe.

We’re not talking about vowing to clean your leisure vehicle every week or go to a different location each month.

For 2025, we’re championing smaller, more achievable resolutions, like taking more day trips in your caravan or always putting muddy gear in a large bucket when you return to your motorhome after a wet walk.

Owning a leisure vehicle gives you lots of opportunities to get out and enjoy nature no matter how busy your schedule gets.

So, with this in mind, the CaravanTimes team has some suggestions for micro-resolutions this year, which should help you get the most out of your caravan or motorhome.

Have more breakfasts in scenic spots

Your leisure vehicle is a kitchen on wheels, so you can drive it anywhere and brew a cup of coffee, warm up some pastries or cook a full fry up fairly easily.

If you haven’t got time for a weekend away or even a day out, breakfast in a scenic location not far from home can still be doable.

Croissants by the sea, coffee with a view of rolling hills or a bacon butty watching raindrops drip down the windows are all good uses of your caravan or motorhome.

Lend your leisure vehicle to others

Identify time when you’re not going to be using your van – like if you’re jetting off on holiday – and resolve to make it available for others.

This can have a number of benefits, such as letting someone who might not get a trip away experience vanlife or earning a little bit of extra money through a campervan sharing platform.

Either way, your leisure vehicle is better off being used than sitting on your drive and sharing is a great New Year’s resolution to make.

Meet more caravanners

The caravanning community is a very welcoming bunch and 2025 could be the year you get to know more of them.

Strategies to do this can vary, from joining an organisation like the Caravan and Motorhome Club or the Camping and Caravanning Club, right through to signing up for towing skills training.

Sometimes, the best friendships come from asking for help on site, so if your vehicle gets stuck in the mud or you forget to pack a tin opener, use it as an opportunity to create new connections.

Expand your cooking repertoire

While it’s true that many caravan and motorhome kitchens are smaller than those most people have at home, they’re also often very well equipped.

It’s easy to fall into the routine of cooking the same dishes every time you go away in your leisure vehicle, but adding new items to your repertoire can be a lot of fun.

There’s lots of cookbooks designed especially for helping caravanners and motorhomers to innovate and make delicious feasts, so it might be time to invest in one.

Create a wish list

Instead of settling on one resolution and vowing to repeat it throughout the year, a wish list for the months ahead can be a great idea if you want to mix things up.

Settle on ten to 15 things you’d like to do with your caravan or motorhome this year and try to tick them off by January 2026.

Ideas should be personal to you, but could include visiting somewhere new, returning to a location you love, taking your leisure vehicle on a ferry or creating an accessory like curtains for your van.



 

Photo credit: Pexels/Pavel Danilyuk

Stay on the right side of the law when driving this winter

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Whether you’re driving a towcar or a motorhome this winter, it’s important to stay on the right side of the law, but new research shows one seasonal rule is often overlooked.

Motorpoint surveyed UK car owners about their attitudes towards de-icing their vehicle and driving in freezing conditions and found 42 per cent don’t fully defrost their windscreen before setting off.

Not only does having a partially iced over windscreen pose a safety hazard when departing for a trip in your motorhome or when towing a caravan, it’s also against the law.

Legally, all drivers must fully defrost their car windows and mirrors before embarking on a journey when it’s cold outside.

In reality, many people don’t leave enough time before their planned departure and only clear a portion of the windscreen to see out of.

According to the Highway Code, drivers must defrost the entire windscreen before attempting to go anywhere or risk a fine of up to £2,500.

Interestingly, the same research found 43 per cent of motorists know it’s illegal to start driving without visibility, but that doesn’t stop many from doing it anyway.

Tim Rodie, driving expert at Motorpoint, said: “Winter driving can be a daunting prospect for motorists, but there are some simple things you can do to help build your confidence and keep yourself and other road users safe. 

“The easiest thing motorists can do is to ensure they have full visibility and have taken the time to make sure they can see out of their windows and mirrors.

“I’d suggest giving yourself at least ten minutes to defrost your car and remove all condensation before setting off on cold mornings so you can be confident that your windscreen is fully clear and won’t risk refreezing.”

How to defrost your towcar or motorhome’s windscreen

As well as leaving enough time to properly defrost your windscreen before a journey, what are the best methods to do so?

Motorpoint has noted some people leave the engine running and turn up the heaters while they finish getting ready for a trip, which it points out is a very bad idea for environmental and potential theft reasons.

Here are some of the alternatives:

Use an ice scraper

Going old school and using an ice scraper is among the cheapest and most effective ways to clear ice off your vehicle.

Remember to wear a pair of gloves and to do the entire windscreen, as well as mirrors, lights and any driving sensors.

De-icer spray

Traditional de-icer is effective but the chemicals mean it’s not great for the environment, so it’s a good idea to make your own with a tablespoon of salt and two cups of water.

De-icer can cause your windscreen to fog over, so you need to factor this into the time it takes to prepare your towcar or motorhome for travel.

Dual method

Combining homemade de-icer and a scraper can be more effective than using one over the other and helps to cut how long you need to clear your windscreen.

Have both of these items to hand so you’re not scrabbling around trying to find them at the last minute while preparing for a journey.

Heated windscreen

If you have a heated windscreen, then this can be particularly helpful, but does require some time to work.

Don’t forget to defrost the side windows and the mirrors though, as you’ll still need these to drive safely.

 

 

Photo credit: Pixabay/Karolina Grabowska

Where to pitch up abroad in 2025

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If the stress of Christmas is getting a bit too much for you, then now could be a good time to start thinking about your caravan or motorhome trips in 2025.

Throughout the last 12 months, a number of international destinations have been gaining in popularity, making them good candidates for your next adventure abroad.

With this in mind, Pitchup.com has provided a rundown of the places that should be on your radar in 2025.

Portugal

Bookings to Portugal reportedly rose by 251 per cent, which is not surprising when you realise it’s the only European destination to have made it into the 2024 Holiday Money Report’s top five.

Offering plenty of bang for your buck, Portugal has a tempting climate, stunning coastlines and historic cities, providing everything you need for a great camping holiday.

Pitchup recommends Bubulcus & Bolotas Camping, which is located half an hour’s drive from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Évora.

This shining example of Portugal’s golden age was completely rebuilt after an earthquake in 1755.

Hungary

Combining Hungary’s stunning landscapes, thermal spas, rich history and lively traditions with the low cost of holiday essentials, it’s easy to see why bookings have gone up by 229 per cent in the last year.

Head to Lake Balaton to the west of Budapest for a stay at Balatontourist Camping Napfény for watersports and a playground for children.

Local attractions include Szigliget Castle and a winery just a 20-minute drive away. Make sure you don’t indulge in the produce if you’ve got to drive the towcar or motorhome back to the site.

One reviewer of the holiday park said it’s “sooooo beautiful and the campsite with everything around it is a dream”.

Montenegro

Croatia has long been a popular destination for Brits, but its southern neighbour Montenegro has only recently started to get the recognition it deserves.

With 217 per cent more bookings, caravanners and motorhomers have tapped into the beauty of its rugged mountains, medieval villages and Adriatic coastline.

Just 20 minutes north-west of the capital Podgorica is Purple Eye Estate, which is set within its own winery, meaning you don’t have to go anywhere to sample the local produce.

The site also makes a convenient base for exploring Oströg Monastery, built into the cliff face 900 metres above the Zeta Valley in the 17th century.

Belgium

If you’re a foodie and owning a leisure vehicle helps to facilitate trips to tantalise your tastebuds, then Belgium should be high up on your list.

The waffles, chocolate and beer it’s known for are among the reasons for a 108 per cent uptick in books to this culinary hotspot.

While still relatively close to the UK, Belgium is cheaper than France, thus stacking the odds even further in its favour.

Camping Houtum near Antwerp is “an incredible campsite surrounded by some of the most stunning cycling routes I’ve ever experienced,” according to one reviewer.

Austria

Alpine meadows and mountains have led to Austria coming in fifth position in the fastest-growing overseas destinations for the past 12 months.

The landlocked country in central Europe saw an increase of 78 per cent in bookings in 2024, making it a good bet for 2025.

Camping Resort Reigersburg is located in the west of the country and is a newly opened site, which is already impressing guests with its facilities.

Highlights include swimming in the lake and hiking up to the medieval Riegersburg Castle, which is within easy reach of the camping ground.

Last-minute Christmas shopping for caravan enthusiasts

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Are you among the 56 per cent of Brits who buy their Christmas presents at the last minute? And do you have a caravan or motorhome lover on your list?

If so, you’ve come to the right place…

Research from thortful found that searches for “Best last-minute gift ideas” are up by 222 per cent since September and 23 per cent compared to last Christmas.

With 14 per cent of people admitting to giving generic gifts as they never know what to buy people, this shouldn’t be the case for your leisure vehicle-owning friends and family.

Recently, we took a look at what are considered the most uninspiring Christmas gifts and how they can be substituted for something much better this year.

After all, there’s always something useful that can be added to a caravan or motorhome to make the experience more comfortable or exciting.

Always the practical gifter, our very own Dan Cartwright has previously presented guides on what to buy for caravan owners, motorhome enthusiasts and campervan lovers.

Extra tips for successful gifting

The gifting experts at thortful have provided the following tips if you’re still trying to find the right presents.

Take advantage of cookies

Take note of any ads that pop up on a shared computer or laptop if you live with the person you’re purchasing a gift for.

These targeted ads are an insight into the things they’ve been looking at online and the perfect way to get your loved one something they really want.

Personalise simple things

Personalised items they can use in their leisure vehicles are a great way to show a loved one you really care.

A calendar with a new picture every month, their favourite food and drink with their names on the packaging or inscribed gifts such as new glassware are good places to start.

Experiences over items

If the person you’re buying for has enough stuff, then gift them an experiential present instead to create memories together.

It could be a voucher for a restaurant near where you’re planning on pitching up somewhere soon, a day out or even a whole trip away in your caravan or motorhome.

Craft a gift

Sometimes a crafted present can say a lot more than a purchased one and there are lots of ways to incorporate caravan life into such items.

For example, you could create a book of memories from your trips or bake tasty treats to take on your next weekend away.

 


Photo credit: Unsplash/Denise Johnson

New motorhome insurance policy for extended European cover

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A new insurance product has been launched specifically for people planning to spend extended amounts of time travelling around Europe in their leisure vehicle.

Specialist insurer Motorhome Protect is offering cover for trips up to 270 days, which is worth considering if you’re planning an epic adventure anytime soon.

You should always have adequate insurance for the way in which you use your leisure vehicle. This will ensure both you and your caravan or motorhome are fully covered, as well as your possessions.

Typically, standard motorhome insurance will cover 90 days in continental Europe, which is sufficient for most people’s needs.

If you’re taking a sabbatical or doing a stint as a digital nomad, then it’s important to get better protection.

A number of providers offer 240 days on their comprehensive motorhome insurance, which makes this newest product appear particularly generous.

Mark Sheppard, senior trading manager at Motorhome Protect, said: “With its extended EU cover, our new policy supports drivers hoping to spend the best part of nine months a year visiting Europe in the comfort of their own vehicle.”

At the other end of the spectrum, it’s possible to get 30 days’ worth of cover under what’s called temporary motorhome insurance.

This can be particularly useful if you’re just borrowing a leisure vehicle or trying one out for the first time and don’t want to commit to a long-term insurance policy.

If you’re not planning on using your caravan or motorhome for a while, it should still be insured while in storage to protect against fire or theft.

This is often referred to as laid up cover and is a basic level of insurance that can’t be used when touring with your vehicle.

Mr Sheppard also wanted to offer CaravanTimes readers some extra advice. He told us: “There are a couple of important points to note if you’re travelling to Europe this Christmas.

“First, motorhomes and campervans travelling on the continent now need to display a UK sticker, not a GB one.

 “Second, it’s important to be aware of the numerous low-emission zones that have sprung up in many European countries in recent years – Urban Access Regulations in Europe is a great source of information for drivers wishing to successfully navigate these areas and avoid costly fines.”

New circuit of Bath hiking trail launched

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For many people, owning a caravan or motorhome is a great opportunity to get out into the countryside and enjoy some hiking.

With that in mind, it’s worth noting that a new 20-mile circuit of Bath hiking trail has been launched with the help of volunteers from Cotswolds National Landscape and the Ramblers.

The route can be tackled independently or as part of a guided walk, with the next one being held on the weekend of May 10th and 11th, 2025.

Taking two days to cover the circuit, hikers can spend the night in their leisure vehicle in between to rest their weary legs.

If you’re holidaying in Bath and would like to do just a short part of the route, it can also be cut up into smaller, more manageable sections.

During the 18th century, doctors in Bath recommended patients take to the surrounding hills and valleys to exercise and improve their wellbeing.

This tradition continues to this day, with the countryside around the city representing a clear opportunity for so-called green therapy.

Walking the route

The circuit of Bath hiking trail can be found on ​​Ordnance Survey maps and on the Long Distance Walkers Association website, helping you to plan your way.

Along the way, you can expect to see beautiful countryside, fascinating industrial and social history, and a number of quaint villages.

These include Southstoke, Englishcombe, Upper Swainswick, Batheaston, Bathampton and Monkton Combe.

Stop off at spots like Little Solsbury Hill, Southstoke, Millenium Viewpoint and Beckford’s Tower to take in the vistas along the way.

Habitats for wildlife

The chance to see interesting flora and fauna is another great reason to get out into the countryside with your leisure vehicle. The circuit of Bath route has a number of opportunities.

Beavers and otters can sometimes be seen in the River Avon, while a combination of ancient woodland and new planting gives a variety of species many different types of trees to use as homes.

The local community

Bringing the new route to fruition has involved many volunteers from the local community, with the Ramblers providing waymarking and improvements to the path.

The community-owned Packhorse pub in Southstoke is among one of the places hikers can take a break during the hike and enjoy some local hospitality.

Look out for the Primrose Hill Community Woodland, which was planted in the year 2000 and is still maintained by volunteers.



5 ways to protect your motorhome from theft

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Darker, longer nights in December can be an opportune time for theft, especially for high-value items like motorhomes and campervans, which are often used less throughout the winter months.

Unattended leisure vehicles can become a target for robberies, but there are things you can do to reduce the risk of your beloved motorhome being broken into and Motorhome Protect has outlined them for us.

Mark Sheppard, senior manager at Motorhome Protect, said: “Around Christmastime, motorhomes are likely used less, which can make it a popular time for thieves to target them. At Motorhome Protect, we want to ensure every owner is protected.

“We hope by highlighting some common errors people may make when it comes to their vehicle’s safety, owners can take steps to avoid them and ensure their home on wheels is safe this festive season.”

Lock all access points

It goes without saying you should lock the doors to your leisure vehicle when leaving it alone, but it’s also important to secure all other access points too.

These include roof lights, hatches and exterior access doors to storage compartments, as they can all provide a way in for someone looking to steal.

Install extra locks and alarms

Additional locks and alarms beyond those your motorhome has been fitted with as standard are a good way to help keep it safe.

Steering wheel locks are not just an effective visual deterrent, but immobilise the steering wheel, making it difficult for potential thieves to drive away.

Similarly, clutch claws lock the clutch and the brake pedal in place, preventing thieves from stealing your leisure vehicle.

Consider installing an alarm and immobiliser, with loud noises deterring thieves and immobilisers making the act of stealing your motorhome all but impossible.

Invest in extra security measures

Longer nights in December present more opportunities for thieves to strike undetected, so installing outdoor security lights to illuminate your leisure vehicle can be a good idea.

Alternatively, invest in a CCTV system, with a camera positioned in a visible spot, so any opportunists can see they’re being watched.

If you know you’re not going to be using your motorhome at all during the winter months, it can be worth putting it into secure storage, but make sure you complete all the necessary preparation first.

Keep valuables out of sight

Leaving valuables on view in your leisure vehicle can entice thieves to break in, often causing costly damage and inconvenience.

Don’t leave the ownership documents inside your motorhome, as these would help a potential criminal to sell it on.

Writing your postcode on any items in your van with a UV pen can be useful in tracking them down in the event of a break in.

Buy the right insurance

While it’s important to have motorhome insurance that covers the vehicle itself, it’s sensible to buy a policy that also includes the contents.

That means you’ll be protected in the case of a burglary and not left out of pocket for any items that are stolen.



The most uninspiring Christmas presents… and what to gift instead

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Brits will spend £1.5 billion on unwanted gifts this year, according to research from card company, thortful, with bubble bath topping the list of uninspiring presents.

While it’s easy to reach for the novelty ties and joke jumpers, there are plenty of alternatives if you’ve got a leisure vehicle enthusiast on your list.

Owning a caravan, motorhome or campervan offers endless possibilities for practical and fun ideas whatever your budget.

Switch it up

Here, we look at the top ten list of uninspiring gifts and add suggestions from the CaravanTimes team as possible alternatives.

Bubble bath – pegless washing line

The chances are your recipient hasn’t got a bath tub in their caravan or motorhome, but they will still want to feel fresh on the road, which means cleaning some clothes.

A pegless washing line, which can be attached to various places both inside the vehicle or outside, is a practical gift that will be used again and again.

Bath bombs – duct tape

They say a bath can solve all your problems, but in the world of camping, this title definitely goes to duct tape, which now even comes in a variety of bright colours and patterns to jazz up your gift.

Many breakages can be given a rudimentary if not permanent fix with duct tape, from rips to handles falling off essential items. 

Novelty socks – flint and steel set

Campers much prefer to keep their feet warm by a fire than with a pair of socks emblazoned with Santa’s face on them.

Matches can get damp and lighters run out of fuel, but a traditional flint and steel fire starting set will always provide your friend with a spark when they need one.

Slogan mugs – enamel mug

An enamel mug is a camping staple for a reason. They’re practically indestructible and easy to attach to a rucksack for an impromptu sharing of a flask of coffee while out on a wintry walk.

Step away from the silly slogans and choose a simple design or one adorned with a picture of a vintage camper for a winning present.

Clothing they don’t need – Club membership

Clothes can be expensive, making it a shame when they sit unworn in the wardrobe all year, but if you have a fairly substantial budget there’s something much more suitable for the leisure vehicle fan in your life.

Membership to the Caravan and Motorhome Club starts at just £63 a year and comes with a whole host of benefits they’ll be able to take advantage of.

Underwear – headtorch

Help them get to the toilet block in the middle of the night or find their underwear at the back of a storage locker with a headtorch.

These small gadgets are worth their weight in gold around a motorhome or caravan park, as they allow you to be handsfree, so it’s worth stashing them all over the vehicle.

Slogan T-shirt – changing robe

Whether it’s a waterproof or simple towelling version, a changing robe is an essential bit of kit for campers, which can be used in a variety of situations.

They’ll throw it on to get warm, sit outside, to check something on the site at night or to head to the loo. It can even offer some changing privacy in a vehicle with multiple occupants.

Books they won’t read – a Martin Dorey book

Novels are a question of personal taste, but all caravanners and motorhomers will get plenty of use from a book by Martin Dorey.

From the Camper Van Cookbook to his Take the Slow Road series, there’s something that covers all areas of leisure vehicle life.

Useless kitchen gadgets – useful kitchen gadgets

Space is always at a premium in your caravan or motorhome, which makes gadgets a lot more useful than at home, especially in the kitchen.

Whether it’s an Aeropress coffee maker, a folding drainer or a set of pans with one detachable handle, space-saving gadgets are a great Christmas gift idea.

Bad smelling perfume – insect repellent

If you want to give your loved one something to make them smell different, try a DEET-free, non-greasy insect repellent.

Upon opening it, they can flash forward to those balmy summer nights sitting outside their caravan or motorhome and know they wont be pestered by biting insects.

 

Photo credit: Pexels/G_Masters



Hiking safely with your dog in winter

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Taking your dog with you in your caravan or motorhome is one of the major benefits of owning a leisure vehicle and many pet lovers set up a dedicated space for their pooch to feel at home.

At this time of year, it’s common to head into the countryside and enjoy wintry walks with your four-legged friend, but it’s important to do so safely.

Dr Emma Scales-Theobald, a leading canine behaviourist and resident expert at Canine Cottages, has warned of the unique challenges presented when hiking with your dog.

Her expert advice ensures that dogs and their humans can stay safe, happy and ready for adventure during hikes on their next caravan or motorhome trip.

Avoid rough terrain

Challenging terrain like rocky surfaces, cliff edges and steep slopes can cause a variety of issues for dogs, from damage to their paws through to the risk of falling.

Dr Scales-Theobald said: “Often, the edge of the cliff can be obscured from the dog’s vision, risking them going too close and falling. 

“If there are unavoidable rocky surfaces to traverse on your hike and you’re worried about their paws, you can protect their paws with dog boots. But these will take time for your dog to get used to wearing in advance.”

Pick pup-approved trails

Having a good sniff in the countryside is good for dogs, with plenty of new smells for them to encounter, but it’s important to heed any signs that paths aren’t suitable for your four-legged friend.

Do a little bit of research in advance and select routes with clear paths, gentle inclines and manageable terrain, while wooded areas can help protect them from adverse weather in the winter.

Consider breaks, water and distance

While many owners will take more regular breaks with puppies, senior dogs or those with health conditions, even healthy adult dogs should take a break every 30 minutes to an hour.

Watch for signs of fatigue like slowing down or heavy panting and make sure to pack plenty of water, treats and food for fuel.

A towel or blanket in the back of the towcar or motorhome parked at the end of the walk will ensure your dog can get warm and dry after a wintry hike.

Follow the Countryside Code

The Countryside Code is designed to keep everyone’s experience positive while respecting nature and there are specific provisions for dogs.

Key guidelines include keeping dogs under control and close by, especially when livestock or wildlife is in the area.

Remember that dogs must be kept on a lead from March to July on open access land, even when there’s no livestock present.

Picking up after your dog should go without saying and following signs requesting leads help make the trails inviting for all visitors.

Be aware of potential hazards

The countryside is home to a number of hazards that pose particular risks to dogs and Dr Scales-Theobald recommends taking a canine first aid kit on your hikes.

Also be on the look out for:

  • Ticks and insects: Tick season is typically March to October, but they can be a year-round issue. Watch out for insect bites, especially around your dog’s paws and nose, taking them out only with a tick remover.
  • Wildlife and plants: Keep an eye out for adders, toxic plants and any contaminated water sources. For pups who like to swim, be mindful of river currents and underwater obstacles.
  • Sticky seeds: Grass seeds cling to fur and can cause discomfort, so check your dog’s coat regularly throughout the hike.

 

Photo credit: Pexels/PNW Production



The most crucial step for motorhome owners winterising their leisure vehicles

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Many motorhome owners now continue to use their leisure vehicle throughout the cold months, but if you winterise yours there’s one crucial step you mustn’t forget.

That’s according to the experts at Motorhome Protect, who have reminded motorhomers to empty their water systems as temperatures drop.

Mark Sheppard, senior trading manager at the insurance provider, said: “Proper winterisation of your vehicle is important to prevent damage caused by freezing temperatures.

“Water left in the plumbing system can freeze, leading to ruptured pipes and damaged water tanks.

It’s something CaravanTimes’ own Dan Cartwright has touched on before too, with some leisure vehicle water systems automatically dumping their contents when they go below a certain temperature.

Draining your water system

Completely drain the water systems, including all tanks, pipes, valves and taps, with the vehicle parked over a suitable drainage point to allow water to drain away effectively

Owners need to open the outlets to the fresh and wastewater tanks, including the water heater, if fitted, as well as all internal taps and leave them open until they next use the vehicle.

If the vehicle features a shower, the showerhead should be removed and the supply hoses left to hang into the shower tray to drain, using a drainage accessory like a drain-down kit to ensure all water is removed from the system.

Finally, driving the vehicle a short distance with all drainage outlets open to shake out any remaining water is a good idea.

Winterising your motorhome

The whole point of winterising your motorhome is to ensure everything is in good working order when you come back to it at the start of next season.

That does involve putting in the hard work before your leisure vehicle goes into storage, completing a long list of maintenance and cleaning tasks.

Mr Sheppard said: “Additionally, the vehicle batteries, tyres and engine fluids require special attention during this time.

“Considering the expensive repairs that could arise from neglecting these tasks, winterising your motorhome is a wise investment in the long run.”

Winterising checklist

Consult this list to ensure you don’t miss any of the most important tasks when winterising your motorhome:

  • Empty the water system
  • Fully charge the leisure battery and check it throughout the winter
  • Inflate the tyres to the right pressure
  • Fill vehicle fluids to the optimum level
  • Clean all surfaces and stains
  • Vacuum the soft furnishings
  • Remove food from the cupboards
  • Look for signs of wear and tear to be fixed
  • Place moisture-absorbing crystals around your motorhome
  • Disconnect the gas