5 ways to keep using your leisure vehicle this winter

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Dan Cartwright has over 12 years of experience in the caravan and motorhome industry. He is a judge for a number of prestigious leisure vehicle awards and regularly heads off in his motorhome with his family. Every week, Dan shares his insights with the community. Here’s what he has to say this week.

As the evenings draw in, the weather gets worse and the supermarkets are (already) stocking overpriced party food, I’ve launched my annual quest to find the most leisure vehicle-related Christmas tree decorations… of which I have a lot.

Winter is fast approaching. A lot of publications in our industry are talking about how to winterise your leisure vehicle or get it ready for storage. In my opinion, the best way to prepare your caravan, motorhome or campervan for the winter is to keep using it.

So, if you can, try and utilise your vehicle instead of sticking it in the garage. At the end of the day, the cost of living crisis has made it so that heating a motorhome for a weekend would be cost-effective compared to doing the same to your house!

All jokes aside, there are plenty of cool things you can do in the winter that are actually easier than in the summer. Hopefully, this will give you a little inspiration when it comes to using your leisure vehicle throughout the colder months.

Be spontaneous

In the summer, this is almost impossible. If you work, everybody wants time off while the weather is good, so snatching even a day can be difficult. Also, site availability is a tricky problem which has been made even harder by the increase in leisure vehicle ownership in the UK over the last five years.

In the winter, you can be much more spontaneous. Head off on that long weekend, as your workplace will likely be fine with shorter notice, as not many of your colleagues will be booking time off, apart from the obvious Christmas period.

Try before you buy

All industry statistics indicate that leisure vehicle users enjoy more holidays than people who head to traditional hotels or resorts. Normally, we go on a couple of big trips each year and we love trying new places.

So, before committing to these longer journeys, why not utilise your van over the winter to go and test out some of the sites and areas you’ve got on your list of potential destinations? You’ll get to grips with the location and be able to figure out if you want to return on a sunny vacation.

Visit friends and family

I know lots of readers do this already, but if not, visiting friends and family in your leisure vehicle is a great way to ensure your own space to get away. Most times, they will have driveways and be happy to accommodate your caravan or motorhome, as it saves them having to make up the spare room or even move the kids out of theirs!

Return to your favourite summer spots

Ok, the weather will certainly be much worse, but you won’t get the crowds! Genuinely though, being able to walk into restaurants and attractions to gain a new perspective on those places is a fascinating experience. It’s interesting to see places you loved on a summer holiday, in a more natural, less touristic environment.

Create a new type of holiday for yourself

Rather than trying to recreate that summer leisure vehicle experience – doors open, spending entire afternoons on the campsite – think of a winter trip as a different type of break. Embrace eating in restaurants as opposed to barbecuing, getting cosy with movies and nights together in your van.

Look at the activities you enjoy, but don’t get to do on a summer holiday – going to the cinema, doing your Christmas shopping, indoor sports and so on. Transfer these to your winter experience. You’ll create fantastic memories and a brand new type of holiday that you can look forward to next year.

We’ll follow up soon for advice on travelling in the winter, but of course, be fully aware of road conditions and take note of weather forecasts before driving, particularly in high winds, ice and snow. But don’t let this deter you from finding a new way to love your leisure vehicle holidays!

Photo credit: Thirdman / Pexels

How to choose a fridge for your motorhome

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If you’re kitting out a motorhome, caravan or campervan, or updating an existing one, there are lots of decisions to be made. Among them are choosing a fridge and like most pieces of leisure vehicle equipment, there are lots of things to take into consideration.

As well as being compact enough for the space, but with sufficient capacity for your needs, there’s also power consumption to consider. How you’re planning on using your motorhome will have an impact on the choice you make.

If you’re a family who always pitches up at a campsite or holiday park, where electric hookup is readily available, you’ll choose something different to a couple who like going off-grid. Everyone uses their leisure vehicle in their own way.

We spoke to Chris Feibusch, marketing director at Penguin Refrigeration, to get the lowdown on keeping things cool in your leisure vehicle. He believes the efficiency of modern compressor fridges, combined with advances in solar and battery technology, make true off-grid operation both achievable and affordable.

Mr Feibusch told CaravanTimes: “Around the world, smaller campervans have all but moved away from the old three-way technology. This is due to the various downsides including complicated installation and excessive power consumption.

“Today, the shift towards compressor refrigeration is gathering momentum in the larger motorhome sector, particularly in the movement to reduce reliance on gas, and ultimately, removing it altogether.”

A compressor fridge only needs to be wired into the 12V circuit and will function much more
efficiently than a three-way fridge when running on electricity. For a medium-sized fridge, you can expect an average consumption of 1Ah, or even less in some cases.

There also isn’t a need for ventilation to the outside with compressor refrigeration, meaning you won’t be required to cut holes into the side of your leisure vehicle during installation.

When considering a fridge purchase for your motorhome or caravan, as with any product, there are varying degrees of quality in the market. The price point is usually a good indicator of where you are on that scale.

Mr Feibusch said: “The old adage of ‘buy cheap buy twice’ applies here. Vitrifrigo fridges, for example, feature aluminium finned condensers, which are more expensive to manufacture than steel alternatives, used by other manufacturers. Aluminium condensers are the best for heat dissipation, which translates into market-leading efficiency.”

Penguin Refrigeration will be launching new products in its Vitrifrigo range in 2024. They promise to offer game-changing technology for even greater efficiency and weight savings.

Static caravan owners warned to brace for storm damage

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In the wake of Storm Ciarán last week, which disrupted large parts of the UK, static caravan and lodge owners have been warned to prepare for an increased likelihood of storm damage as a result of climate change.

That’s according to Compass, a specialist provider of caravan and leisure insurance. The company saw a 16 per cent increase in claims relating to damage caused by storms between 2021 and 2022.

The insurer has now issued a warning to owners of static caravans to ensure they are prepared for storms and to also check they are covered by a comprehensive insurance policy.

During 2022, 32 per cent of static caravan claims received by Compass were due to storm damage. In one instance, an entire vehicle was destroyed, resulting in a whopping £148,590 claim.

Karen Stacey, managing director at Compass, commented: “Unlike brick and mortar holiday homes, static caravans are particularly susceptible to damage from storms or floods.

“Unpredictable weather events, especially flash floods caused by heavy rain on parched ground during the summer, can cause a significant amount of damage to static caravans.”

It’s (still) time to prepare for climate change

Flood warnings were issued across the south and east of the UK last week, as Storm Ciarán made its way across from the Atlantic. A combination of heavy rainfall, sodden ground and swollen rivers provided a perfect environment for what was categorised by meteorologists as a ‘bomb cyclone’.

In fact, only two events with comparably low pressure have ever been recorded in the southern part of the UK. Throughout October, large areas of Britain experienced more than double the average amount of rainfall. 

Current research indicates storms like Ciarán, with heavy rainfall and strong winds, will only become more prevalent throughout northern Europe. Additionally, recent events have highlighted the fact that society has yet to adapt to worsening climate conditions.

Whether you own a caravan, motorhome or campervan – don’t take global warming for granted. We know that conditions are likely to worsen, so make sure to take the appropriate measures to keep yourself and your leisure vehicle safe from adverse weather.

Photo credit: Frank Cone / Pexels

Dan’s hot take on the Leisure Vehicle Survey

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Dan Cartwright has over 12 years of experience in the caravan and motorhome industry. He is a judge for a number of prestigious leisure vehicle awards and regularly heads off in his motorhome with his family. Every week, Dan shares his insights with the community. Here’s what he has to say this week.

The Caravan and Motorhome Club (CAMC) has just released its latest Leisure Vehicle Survey and while it shows satisfaction to be at an all-time high, there are still some areas ripe for improvement. Here are the top three things I’d like to see in caravans, motorhomes and van conversions or campervans.

Caravans

Manufacturer-fitted wind-out awnings

People want awnings, but when they’re fitted by the manufacturer they slot into the frame better and are therefore stronger, causing less risk of damage. Large awnings are popular, but for many, it’s just about having a small awning to provide a quick and easy porch area that offers some protection from the elements.

Automatic step

Borrowing from our more expensive and more luxurious motorhome cousins, caravans should be fitted with an automatic step. A retractable step operated via a button by the door makes so much sense and avoids the issue of carrying a heavy and often dirty step that needs to be accommodated inside the caravan.

Better audio-visual technology

A lot of caravans have dedicated spaces, 12-volt/230-volt sockets and built-in aerials, which are all great, but not having the TV going through a speaker system seems outdated. Since many caravans already have speakers, they should be integrated with TV, Bluetooth and movie technology. Coupled with this, caravans need USB-C sockets as the USB-B provision many have are no longer useful.

Motorhomes

Motorhomes have the biggest price bracket – ranging from £50,000 to £500,000, so there’s a lot of specification available at the higher end of the market. But there are a number of things that mainstream motorhomes could benefit from.

Better connectivity between the cab and the habitation

This is something that was mentioned in the Leisure Vehicle Survey, demonstrating the desire for media to be linked between the two parts of the motorhome. Being able to use speakers that hook up to the cab and the rest of the vehicle, as well as integrated with the TV is technology we need. Habitation technology is almost always poorer than that in the cab, so it should just be run together.

Height sensors

Motorhomes are often fitted with parking sensors, but the majority of owners have a piece of paper in the cab reminding them of the height of their vehicle. Height sensors seem like a no-brainer and could avoid major accidents with car park barriers or low bridges. If you’re putting sensors into a motorhome, then having height sensors doesn’t seem difficult.

Rear lounges

There’s been a move towards filling the whole back half of motorhomes with beds, meaning models with rear lounges have become the minority. With drop-down bed technology you can have a lounge and press a button to have a huge bed appear when you’re not using it. Having a front lounge is never comfortable, things aren’t in the optimum position and there are space limitations.

Van conversions and campervans

Better battery technology

Van conversions and campervans are now becoming more off-grid capable, with solar panels and the ability to charge batteries when you’re not driving. These are being used for one or two-night trips or longer multiple-stop holidays, as highlighted in the survey, with the batteries being charged comprehensively while driving. But what’s missing is proper lithium battery technology, which would massively improve off-grid capability.

Improved energy usage monitoring

We have it in domestic properties, but not in leisure vehicles, so it’s time we’re allowed to properly understand energy usage in our campervans through sufficient monitoring. By understanding how much energy certain things take, you could learn what your off-grid capabilities are. Money could be saved by knowing what you’re going to be using and not opting for electrical hook-up.

Insulated pop-tops

The Leisure Vehicle Survey shows that campervans and panel vans are being used all year round and are conduits for people to enjoy the great outdoors and their specific activities. The rise of pop-tops is making these types of leisure vehicles increasingly popular with families, expanding sleeping capabilities from two to four. But the current crop of pop-tops are poorly insulated and not up to cold or windy conditions. Inflatable insulation would easily solve this.

Do check out the Leisure Vehicle Survey to read the interesting stats that came to light. It’s a huge undertaking by the CAMC and it’s great to see how leisure vehicles are progressing, which is borne out in net promoter scores being up and faults being down.

Consumers are happier both with their dealers and their manufacturers, with the second-hand market also proving to be very content. We’re at 80 per cent satisfaction on all caravan experiences and approaching that proportion for motorhomes and campervans too.

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Kevin Schmid

Top travel insurance tips

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When we’re talking about the things to remember with travel insurance, the most important one is to get it in the first place. It’s very easy to overlook this essential if you’re planning a trip yourself in your caravan or motorhome.

Apart from that fundamental, Quotezone.co.uk has put together a checklist of other areas not to overlook when it comes to travel insurance. These are particularly pertinent in a post-pandemic world.

Helen Rolph, an expert at the insurance comparison site, said: “The pandemic has shown us how quickly travel plans can change and has made many of us nervous to travel.

“That’s why it’s important to protect yourself against trip cancellations or interruptions. It can be devastating to miss out on a holiday, so it’s important to ensure that you don’t lose out or lose your money.”

Get a policy that covers Covid

Cancelling campsites, ferries or Eurotunnel all adds up if you haven’t got an insurance policy that covers Covid and you or your fellow travellers contract the virus. Check the Covid-related coverage, exclusions and limitations of your travel insurance policy before purchasing it.

Keep documentation safe

Medical records, receipts and notices of cancellations may all be required if you’re making a claim on your insurance. Create a dedicated place to put all these things, like a large envelope or folder so none of them can go missing.

Don’t forget your GHIC

Now that we’re out of the UK, the EHIC has been replaced with the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) for Brits. You’ll need it to access state-provided health care in Europe at a reduced cost or for free. Failure to produce it can mean being charged large sums for medical attention.

Don’t overlook pre-existing conditions

Declaring your full medical history is vital to ensure your travel insurance is valid and you’ll be able to claim if necessary. Some policies may not cover certain conditions so you may need to shop around, but never lie in your disclosure.

Don’t leave it until the last minute

As soon as you start booking your trip you should secure your travel insurance. We live in uncertain times and this will make sure you’re covered from the beginning. It also means you won’t be rushing the answers to medical questions.

Check the FCO advisories

Always check the Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s (FCO) travel advisories before heading off abroad in your caravan or motorhome. Failure to do so can mean you can’t claim, as insurers won’t pay out if the official advice was not to travel to that destination in the first place.

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Tom Rits

Warm up this autumn in a mobile sauna

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In the world of leisure vehicles, interesting conversions are commonplace. Everything from old school buses to jet engines have been transformed into tourers, but it’s not just accommodation that can be created out of the humble horsebox. They’ve formed the basis for a number of mobile saunas, which can be found across the UK.

The trend towards wild swimming doesn’t seem to be waning, but your enthusiasm for it may do now that the colder months are setting in. If you’re determined to keep swimming outdoors on your caravan and motorhome trips, the prospect of a mobile sauna to warm up in afterwards may appeal.
Benefits of sauna

Enjoying regular saunas is said to relax muscles, improve blood flow and boost skin health, with many people reporting they reduce tension and leave them feeling less stressed. Coupled with a cold water dip, spending time in a sauna has been embraced by mainly Scandinavian society in the past.

Rituals, including the Finnish practice of loyly, where you watch the steam rise from the hot rocks for a calming effect, or slapping yourself with birch twigs to eliminate toxins, are all part of the process. Different mobile saunas across the UK have taken their cue from a variety of traditions.

Beach Box Sauna Spa – Brighton

Beginning life as one mobile sauna in a converted horsebox, Beach Box Sauna Spa now boasts three experiences to choose from. Each of the saunas has a different vibe, from the aromatic cedar Lotta to the Estonian traditional Leil and the Loonah, complete with Finnish volcanic rocks.

Elie Seaside Sauna – Fife

Positioned on Elie Harbour with beaches conveniently close by for a dip, Elie sauna is a wood-fired sauna in a former horsebox. Book an individual seat or hire out the entire sauna for your caravanning friends and enjoy the view out across the East Neuk of Fife.

Samphire Sauna – Hastings Pier

A wood-fired sauna located right on the pier in Hastings, Samphire Sauna is open Fridays to Mondays. It’s easy to spot as the sauna is a converted horsebox, which has been painted green. Inside, you’ll find a Siberian larch floor, two tiers of benches and a stove topped with volcanic sauna rocks.

Salt Box Sauna – Outer Hebrides

The newly-opened Salt Box Sauna is fully taking advantage of its mobile status. The wood-fired barrel sauna travels around various locations on the isles of Harris and Lewis, meaning visitors can combine heat therapy sessions with dips in picturesque spots such as Shawbost Beach and Loch Bharabhat.

La’al Sauna – Cumbria

Another roaming sauna, but this time in Cumbria. La’al Sauna is a former horsebox, which has been insulated with sheeps’ wool and is warmed with kiln-dried logs. It’s currently located in Ullswater for the Dark Skies Festival, but moves around locations in the Lake District to maximise the opportunity for different people to give it a try.

Caravan sites with saunas

If a mobile sauna isn’t parked up near where you’re going to be holidaying, there are a number of caravan sites that offer sauna experiences. These include:

  • Newlands Holiday Park in Dorset
  • St Andrew’s Lakes in Kent
  • Pool Bridge Farm in Yorkshire

 

 

 

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/HUUM

Europe’s worst destinations for tourist scams

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Europe is home to some of the world’s most beautiful and bustling cities, nestled amongst breathtaking scenery, sandy beaches and charming towns, with weather ranging from the chilling lows of Scandinavia to the bright sunny spells of the Mediterranean.

For caravan and motorhome owners in the UK, this means there are plenty of international adventures to be had just a metaphorical stone’s throw from our doorstep.

But any destination that brings in hundreds of thousands of visitors is likely to suffer a certain level of scams and other criminal activities. From pickpocketing to online booking cons, one thing is for certain – you need to have your wits about you.

Many Brits will already be familiar with London’s tourist traps, as globally famous landmarks like the London Eye and Big Ben unfortunately come with individuals looking to profit from unsuspecting holidaymakers.

That’s according to research from Quotezone.co.uk, which investigated the European destinations where tourists felt most cheated, based on online reviews from people who had recently visited.

But London’s not the only place on the list…

The European Scam Index

The European Scam Index saw France top the list by some distance, with 748 reviews on travel websites that mentioned authors being scammed. In fact, the Eiffel Tower alone made up 537 of those reports, making it the destination where tourists were most likely to fall victim to swindlers.

Spain and Italy rounded off the podium, receiving 91 and 72 reviews featuring scams respectively. The UK featured in sixth place, while Austria came in at tenth, with just 13 scams mentioned in reviews.

Greg Wilson, CEO of Quotezone, noted that these results only scratched the surface of how many tourists are being scammed while visiting Europe’s top destinations. He said: “Visitor hotspots are focal points for anyone looking to target tourist dollars, leaving many feeling they have been shortchanged.”

View the full list below.

Top European destination Reviews mentioning scams
France 748
Spain 91
Italy 72
Turkey 67
Greece 64
UK 37
Croatia 26
Poland 26
Portugal 17
Austria 13

The travel insurance comparison experts at Quotezone have advised tourists to avoid carrying cash in crowded areas and to ensure any credit or debit cards are kept in a secure bag, either strapped under your clothes or across your chest.

Additionally, if you wish to store your belongings in a locker at an attraction or station, be certain to get a key from an official, rather than anyone approaching you on the street attempting to sell fake items.

Be cautious of people offering to take photos of you or claiming to have gifts and always pre-order tickets to attractions from official sources with a high volume of positive reviews.

Photo credit: Pixabay / Pexels

Which Lake District pub has the best quiz?

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Tea and biscuits, fish and chips, salt and vinegar… These are just some of the world’s most synonymous pairings. Some things are just better together and when it comes to a British staycation, you can’t go wrong with a pub quiz.

In the UK, we’re very lucky to have such a diverse, interesting and beautiful landscape, including the ever-popular Lake District. A land of towering mountains, tranquil lakes and enchanting market towns, it’s an ideal destination for your next caravan or motorhome adventure.

We Brits have a charming habit of combining outdoor activities in serene backdrops with pub culture, but finding one with a quiz that’s worth staying for isn’t always as easy as it sounds. 

Luckily, the experts at Pure Leisure have unearthed the top five hidden gems in the Lake District pub quiz scene, in no particular order.

The Mardale Inn, Bampton

The Mardale Inn is a cosy, wholesome pub with a strong community feel. It serves both local ales alongside beverages you’d expect from any pub worth its salt, with tantalising food and, most importantly, a brilliant monthly quiz.

Local pubs with a strong sense of community are a Lake District staple, but The Mardale Inn is different. In 2022, the establishment had been closed for five years. However, 500 members of Bampton Valley Community Pub rallied together to raise £400,000 and purchase it.

The Sun Inn, Bassenthwaite

A traditional country pub, complete with muddy boots and paws, as well as cycle racks for anyone taking a quick break from their exercise to see off a pint or two.

The Sun Inn is immersed in beautiful greenery and always packed with charming, friendly locals. It hosts various charity quizzes for great causes, with recent participants raising £400 for Keswick Mountain Rescue.

The Pheasant Inn, Allithwaite

Family-run since 2005, The Pheasant Inn offers something that makes it unique – a free supper with the pub quiz. An authentic display of Cumbrian hospitality if we’ve ever seen one and, considering the quiz costs only £2 to enter, it’s certainly a local favourite.

The main bar area of the Mortal Man dates as far back as 1689 and it has always been a public house. Originally known as the ‘White House’, it was nicknamed ‘Mortal Man’ after the late 19th century carol of the same name.

The Mortal Man Inn, Windermere

Another scenic pub in the British countryside, The Mortal Man sits high on the edge of a valley near Windermere. This is a traditional, old-school venue, offering classic ales to enjoy in a setting of vintage decor and wooden ceiling beams.

Every Wednesday, locals rendezvous at The Mortal Man for its interactive pub quiz, featuring a mix of classic questions and exciting games. It’s slightly different every time, so you can always expect a treat.

The Royal Barn, Kirkby Lonsdale Brewery

This establishment opened its doors in 2016 and immediately became a fan favourite. Astutely nicknamed ‘The Barn’, it perfectly blends both the modern and traditional, with 12 hand pulls and eight taps to boot.

The Barn’s mix of contemporary and industrial aesthetics was thoughtfully considered to give it a unique yet cosy feel. To match, its pub quizzes offer slightly more production value than many and the ticketed events have plenty of prizes to be won.

Photo credit: ANNA B / Pexels

Best National Trust sites to up your Instagram game

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As our attention turns to autumn touring adventures, National Trust properties are the perfect addition to a caravan trip. After all, many combine beautiful gardens with an interesting indoor space, offering options for activities in response to the changeable British weather.

As well as representing fun for all the family, these destinations offer the chance to snap some seasonal content for your socials. So, which National Trust locations should you be including on your next caravan or motorhome trip if you want to up your Instagram game? The garden and outdoor experts at Hayter have the answers.

Giant’s Causeway, County Antrim

Not only is Northern Ireland’s most well-known natural attraction managed by the National Trust, but the Giant’s Causeway is also a World Heritage Site. Visiting the 40,000 interlocking basalt columns is bound to be the highlight of any trip exploring the 130 miles of rugged coastline in this part of the world in your leisure vehicle.

Some 346,000 Instagram posts have been created of the Giant’s Causeway.

Dunham Massey, Greater Manchester

The Georgian house at Dunham Massey on the outskirts of Manchester is exactly the kind of property that’s conjured up in the mind’s eye when you think of the National Trust. But it’s the architectural oddities and natural ecosystem found within its grounds that really make this northern gem stand out.

Dunham Massey has attracted 73,000 pics on the image-sharing site.

Stourhead, Wiltshire

When you visit the 2,650-acre estate at Stourhead in Wiltshire, it’s easy to see why it was once described as a ‘living work of art’. Yes, there’s Stourhead House, but it’s the gardens centred around a magnificent lake and ringed with enchanting grottoes that really steal the show. They’ll certainly look good on the grid.

Your posts will join the 71,500 of Stourhead already on the ‘Gram.

Fountains Abbey, North Yorkshire

How would the stately horns of a deer look on your grid? Well, Fountains Abbey is home to a deer park, as well as the vast ruins of a Cistercian monastery and a Victorian church. Wander through the 18th-century landscaped gardens and find corners of your own for the whole family to enjoy.

Add your pictures of Fountains Abbey to the 66,100 uploaded to Instagram.

Waddesdon Manor, Buckinghamshire

More of a chateau in the style of the French renaissance than a manor house, Waddesdon is seriously impressive. Once owned by the Rothschilds, the property features turrets and an extensive art collection, as well as family favourites like a wooden playground and even an aviary.

Over 48,700 images of the picturesque estate can be found on Instagram.

Annual family membership to the National Trust costs £146.40 for two adults and two children and gets better value the more you use it. A tour of properties managed by the trust offers great focus to caravan or motorhome families, with many people ticking off multiple sites in a single trip.

 

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Sean Kuriyan

Caravan Design Awards 2024: the highlights

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Dan Cartwright has over 12 years of experience in the caravan and motorhome industry. He is a judge for a number of prestigious leisure vehicle awards and regularly heads off in his motorhome with his family. Every week, Dan shares his insights with the community. Here’s what he has to say this week.

I’ve just returned from Birmingham, having spent the last five days at the Motorhome and Caravan Show at the NEC. I got there on Saturday to spend a few days during setup adding the finishing touches to the judging of the Caravan and Motorhome Club’s Caravan Design Awards 2024.

For those unaware of the event, manufacturers submit models to certain categories, including layout, price or specific attributions to family caravanning. Then, they’re judged by a panel of eight expert judges – or seven expert judges and me!

We spent two weeks scrutinising every little detail against predefined scorecards digitally, in the same way a customer would when conducting research online. Then, we had four days at the show visiting each and every caravan submitted to ratify our results.

Physically, we inspect all of the things that, unfortunately, caravan manufacturers are not always entirely accurate or forthcoming about online. This allows us to double-check our scores in person.

Like I’ve said many times before, it’s truly a pleasure to be a judge at these events. Sometimes, it’s incredibly eye-opening, too!

For the full list of winners, head to the Caravan and Motorhome Club website. And for my judging highlights, get comfy and read on.

Adapting to the digital age

The caravan market is typically slow to adopt new technology. When it does, it’s usually implemented on the high-end ranges before funnelling down to more affordable models.

However, this year, I’ve seen what I would almost describe as an explosion of wonderful new tech, designed for people entering the market and in line with how we live at home, utilise media and consume entertainment.

USB-C adoption

Now, caravans have had USB sockets for a long time, but we’re finally starting to see the slightly more useful USB-C standard creeping into certain models.

Well done to Adria, who seems to be leading the way on this. It’s so useful to have USB-C ports available in the modern world because so much technology relies on them to charge. Now, I know that with my phone, laptop and other devices, I can rely on a caravan with the correct sockets and a reasonable amperage.

Portable lights

In certain Eriba and Adria models, we noticed lights that could be detached, with their own batteries. How useful that would be to guide you to the toilet block in the middle of the night!?

Obviously, most people would be using these to light up the awning on a nice evening and, surprisingly, you can even charge your phone from the same battery. No more big torches by the door, these are stylish, innovative and incredibly functional.

Stereo upgrades

The caravan industry is starting to pivot away from car stereos and favour Bluetooth technology. 

Bailey of Bristol implemented a SONOS speaker with a dedicated cradle, in which it can charge, but also can be detached to take anywhere you’d like – the beach, awning or even the toilet block if you want to!

It’s high quality, well thought out and much more in line with how people utilise technology in other areas of their lives. Another interesting point from Bailey is that this technology is in their entry-level Phoenix model, not hidden behind the curtain of luxury ranges.

Wireless charging

I’ve noticed a proliferation of wireless charging points this year. If you’re relaxing in your caravan, just pop your phone or other compatible device on the unit for a few minutes for a little boost, without cables going everywhere. 

Many also pop up to reveal additional USB sockets if your device isn’t compatible with wireless charging, which is fantastic to see.

Mood lighting

Mood lighting, dimmer switches and lighting modes are now a thing you can use to embrace a feeling of zen in your caravan and create the perfect atmosphere.

Some of these are controlled by apps, others by switches, but with LED lighting being so popular in features like edging, awning rails and countertops, controlling the colour, tone and overall mood is a welcome addition.

Layouts

I’m sure some of my fellow judges would argue they’re not all that new, but I’ve noticed some really innovative family layouts this year.

Previously, the options were just bunk beds, side dinettes and the like. Now, there are so many layouts, including those with full-sized bunks and rear lounges.

Regardless of how old your children are, the variety of large family layouts means you’re much more likely to find one that’s perfect for you. I think more families are now entering the caravanning world than ever before and to see manufacturers respecting this and considering the best use of space is fantastic.

The first integrated electric caravan

Finally, there’s an integrated electric caravan – the KNAUS YASEO. Whilst it didn’t win in its category, it must be said that the technology is really cool.

This two-berth caravan is designed to take loads of kit on an active holiday. It can plug into your EV and charge directly from your car, which is perfect if you want to do some wild camping.

The YASEO has induction hobs for that full off-grid experience and not having to worry about your leisure battery going flat is very reassuring. It’s fair to say there’s a little bit of work to do on the layout, but this kind of tech is amazing to see coming onto the market.

Final thoughts and the winners

If you’re visiting the NEC show this weekend and thinking about purchasing a caravan, the awards aren’t saying the winners are the only models you should consider.

However, if you’re looking within a specific category or pining for a certain layout, I’d strongly recommend you go and take a look at these as a guide. Use them as a benchmark to ascertain what’s considered to be good, as well as the specification and equipment for the price.

The full list of winners:

  • Any caravan up to £25,000: Swift Sprite Major 4 SB
  • Any pop-top caravan over 1,150kg: Eriba Touring 630 Legend
  • Any two-berth caravan: Bailey Unicorn Seville
  • Conventional caravan with three or four berths: Bailey Unicorn Madrid
  • Any fixed-bed caravan with three or four berths: Bailey Alicanto Grande Evora
  • Any caravan with five or six berths: Adria Adora 623 DT Sava
  • Any eight-foot wide caravan: Swift Elegance Grande 780
  • Any family caravan: Adria Altea 612 DL Tyne
  • Any large family caravan: Bailey Phoenix GT75 762
  • Any caravan over £45,000: Swift Elegance Grande 860

 

Photo credit: Caravan and Motorhome Club

6 iconic trees to visit in the UK

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The UK recently lost one of its most iconic trees in the Sycamore Gap at Hadrian’s Wall, with the 50-foot staple of Northumberland National Park being cut down overnight in an act of vandalism that authorities described as deliberate.

At CaravanTimes, we are choosing to look at the positive side. Although we have lost one of the country’s most famous trees, we’re lucky in that there are thousands of others to visit.

With the help of the experts at StressFreeCarRental.com, we’ve compiled a list of six UK trees that should definitely be on your radar for your next caravan or motorhome staycation.

John Charnock, CEO of StressFreeCarRental.com, commented: “As well as being stunning to look at, trees are a wildlife sanctuary and great for mental wellbeing, so consider taking a trip to enjoy them in their full glory this autumn.”

So, from Argyll’s Wishing Tree to the Horror Tree of Suffolk, here are some of the best Britain has to offer.

Major Oak, Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire

The second most famous resident of Sherwood Forest, following Robin Hood himself, Major Oak is one of Britain’s oldest trees. 

Although nobody knows its true age, it’s estimated to have been standing for between 800 and 1,100 years. That means it’s outlived the Vikings, the birth and death of Shakespeare, two world wars and more than 50 monarchs.

The Horror Tree, Stowlangtoft, Suffolk

There are no prizes for guessing the Horror Tree is rather unsightly. With its wonky eyes, crooked teeth and twisted snout, the 70-ft beech is not for the faint of heart.

The tree is known for its terrifying face, creepily reminiscent of Edvard Munch’s Scream, although others say the beech tree is very similar to the Whomping Willow in Harry Potter. 

So, If you’re planning a caravan or motorhome holiday over the Halloween period, this is definitely a spot that should be considered. Trees don’t often come as unsettling as this one.

The Ankerwycke Yew, Berkshire

Thought to be 2,500 years old, this yew is said to be the oldest tree in England and is steeped in history. Impressively, it is documented to be the tree where Henry VIII proposed to Anne Boleyn, so it’s a historical and romantic spot… despite the tragic fate of Boleyn.

In addition to the fantastic tree, which boasts wonderful views of the Berkshire countryside, visitors will also be able to wander through the ruins of Ankerwycke Priory. First erected in 1160, the site was home to Benedictine nuns for hundreds of years, until being finally dissolved in 1550.

Although the priory has been repaired several times, it has been in decline since the 1800s and only a small number of walls remain to be seen today.

Boscobel House English Oak, Stafford

King Charles II famously refuged in The Royal Oak Tree in Boscobel House, following the 1651 English Civil War battle to evade capture. 

The tree standing today isn’t the original, which is known to have been destroyed by tourists, but a 200 to 300-year-old descendent of the iconic Royal Oak – aptly named ‘Son of Royal Oak’. It is protected by iron railings, installed back in 1817 due to the prestige and significance of the tree. 

Birnam Oak, Dunkeld, Perth and Kinross

Celebrated in the play Macbeth, this ancient tree is a survivor of Shakespeare’s Birnam Wood. Located just outside the Perthshire village, it serves as a final reminder of the once bustling forest, which spanned the banks and hillsides of the River Tay.

Birnam Oak and its neighbour, the Birnam Sycamore, have a medieval feel. The lower branches of the oak rest on the ground, with the first three metres of its trunk being hollow. The sycamore is thought to be more than 300 years old and boasts especially impressive buttress roots.

Ardmaddy Wishing Tree, Argyll

Situated half a mile south of Ardmaddy Castle, the Wishing Tree has long been associated with rituals and magic. The nearly dead fallen hawthorn has hundreds of coins embedded in its bark.

This tree has an extensive history of being considered sacred, with thousands of visitors having surrendered coins in exchange for the chance to make wishes. Now, the Wishing Tree is fenced off to protect it from damage.

Photo credit: Luke Galloway / Unsplash

Creepy villages for a Halloween touring trip

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Spooky season is well underway, making now a great time to add some of Europe’s creepiest villages to your touring trip. If you’re taking the caravan or motorhome to the continent for October half term, it’s the perfect opportunity to get into the Halloween mood.

To help you find the scariest locations, StressFreeCarRental.com has put together a list of creepy villages to explore.

Bran, Romania

Nowhere conjures up Halloweeny thoughts quite like Transylvania, which is home to the iconic Dracula Castle. The imposing structure looms over the village and can be seen dominating the countryside. Celebrate Halloween in its shadows or explore the castle’s hidden passageways and discover its medieval torture instruments.

Triora, Italy

The Italian village of Triora has a dark history. After the poor harvest of 1587 was blamed on a group of women who lived secluded lives and understood the benefits of medicinal herbs, more than 300 of them were tried as witches. Some 50 individuals were tortured and killed as a result, giving it the reputation as the Salem of Italy. Visit the Museum of Etnografie and Witchcraft to discover this gruesome past.

Pluckley, England

If the Guinness Book of Records suggests a village is the most haunted in England, then you take note. No fewer than a dozen ghosts are said to be resident in the Kent village of Pluckley. Look out for the likes of a drowned gypsy woman, a hanged schoolmaster and a woman who haunts St Nicolas’ churchyard before you try to cosy down in your caravan or motorhome and get some sleep.

Ochate, Spain

Upon first sight, the abandoned village of Ochate feels spooky simply due to the potential for anything to be lurking around each corner. When you add to that the fact it was deemed cursed after three epidemics – smallpox, typhoid fever and cholera in 1860, 1864 and 1870 respectively – hit the village without affecting surrounding areas, things get even creepier. There have been reports of strange lights and mysterious voices telling those who explore Ochate to get out.

Roslin, Scotland

The Midlothian village of Roslin is famous for the late-gothic Rosslyn Chapel, which was featured in the Da Vinci Code. Its original crypt has been sealed off for many years, only adding to the mystery and allowing numerous rumours to take hold. Among them are that inside you’ll find the Holy Grail or the mummified head of Jesus Christ. Also, watch out for the ghosts of a knight on horseback and a woman in white.

Skrinjari, Croatia

Be careful towing your leisure vehicle in the vicinity of the Croatian village of Skrinjari, as it’s renowned for being the site of many traffic accidents. Not only this, but the Skrinjari House, which has now been abandoned, is said to be cursed after builders constructed the edifice on top of a cemetery, allegedly waking the dead. Many who visit say they feel an unidentified sense of unease around the property.

Tintern, Wales

Locals are said to stay away from St Mary’s Church in Tintern, as the ruins have a looming presence. Evidence of satanic rituals has been uncovered at the site in the past and ghosts of monks seen roaming around. Perhaps these lost spirits are visiting from the nearby Tintern Abbey, which was once home to some 400 religious men, many of whom died from the Black Death.

 

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Anna Mircea