Essential checks before heading to Glastonbury

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It’s that time of the year again. Glastonbury 2023 is upon us and tens of thousands of music lovers will be flocking to Worthy Farm, Somerset for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Some will have purchased caravan, campervan or motorhome tickets and will be looking forward to a long weekend soaking up the sun and the vibes.

The International Drivers Association (IDA) has offered its best tips to ensure safety for drivers ahead of the hot weather and potential road hazards. Tim Pickford, motoring expert at the IDA, said: “By following these tips, festival-goers can navigate the challenges and make the most out of their Glastonbury adventure. 

“Remember to prioritise safety, respect others, and embrace the magic of the festival!”

For even the most seasoned leisure vehicle owners, it’s important to be reminded of the simple things, as they’re most easily forgotten. So, here are the checks you should be carrying out before heading down to Somerset this weekend.

Tyre pressure

Always monitor the tyre pressure of your car or leisure vehicle. Fluctuating temperatures and rough terrain can adversely affect it, so take care to ensure all of yours are appropriately inflated for optimal performance and fuel efficiency.

Fluid levels

Before heading to Glastonbury or any road trip, inspect your vehicle’s fluid levels. This includes engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and windshield washer fluid. If needed, top them up to the fill line.

Wildlife

Like many of the best staycations in the UK, Glastonbury is surrounded by nature. It’s not uncommon to encounter wildlife, so take caution when throwing away food or rubbish, or you might end up with a few extra guests. Dispose of your waste appropriately and keep your windows closed when not in use.

When driving, it’s not uncommon to encounter rabbits, deer and pheasants, amongst other animals, crossing the roads. Drive with caution, particularly at dawn and dusk, when wildlife is more active.

Let the hangover subside

The majority of Brits at Glastonbury will undoubtedly be having a tipple… or several. So, if you’ve consumed alcohol the night before you’re planning to drive, remember that your body still needs to metabolise it. Allow yourself plenty of time for this to happen before getting behind the wheel.

Rural roads

The UK is home to picturesque countryside and beautiful scenery. Somerset is no exception, but this does mean there will be some narrow, winding roads along the way. Practise caution and slow down when driving along them, as they often have limited visibility and, in particularly large leisure vehicles, there could be some expert manoeuvring required around bends.

Flooding

Somerset is prone to seasonal flooding, especially in low-lying areas surrounding rivers, or during periods of heavy rainfall. Of course, the weather has been idyllic of late, but keep informed of the forecast and be aware of the roads that will be prone if the skies do open up throughout the weekend.

Photo credit: Wendy Wei / Pexels

Europe in two weeks with the Adamo 75-4I: part 1

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Hi! We’re Laura and Rodrigo, a Spanish and Portuguese couple who have been living in the UK for over ten years. For our summer holiday this season, we had our hearts set on visiting somewhere warm, but we were also looking to try something new.

So, we had a fantastic idea: a motorhome road trip through some of the most iconic places on the continent. We’ve been on car and motorbike road trips before, but this would be our first ever motorhome tour.

 

Sirmione, Italy

 

Bailey of Bristol gave us the Adamo 75-4I to drive across the continent on our tour. With its Ford 2.0 litre, 160 bph engine, we were really lucky to get the chance to take it on an adventure.

The four-berth motorhome has a parallel front lounge, a central washroom and kitchen, a rear bedroom with a double island bed and even an end garage. It’s safe to say the Adamo is a pleasure to drive.

We’re very excited to share our experience with you, including our feelings about driving the Adamo through some amazing countries, including France, Switzerland, Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Austria, Germany and Belgium.

 

Getting started

 

Laura and the Adamo 75-4I

 

Seeing the Adamo for the first time was a wonderful feeling and we were amazed by how quickly we felt at home inside it. The number of things you can fit into a small space is unbelievable. Packing our clothes was an easy task and hanging them in the bedroom, setting up the kitchen and getting settled was so much fun.

Although we had no idea how to fill up the water tank, a quick how-to guide on the Bailey of Bristol YouTube channel was our saviour. Funnily enough, Rodrigo was the cameraman, so it’s a shame he didn’t absorb more information from the shoot!

The ease of mind of having Red Pennant Overseas Holiday Insurance policy through the Caravan and Motorhome Club (CAMC) was very reassuring, as it was our first time driving a motorhome, as well as taking it across several countries, so we wanted to be certain that we’d be covered in the worst case scenario.

 

Days one to four: the M25 to Lake Como

With salsa music playing on the stereo, we were ready to set off in the Adamo for the very first time. We drove from our home in Hitchin, near London, down to Dover to catch the ferry that would take us over the Channel to Calais, easily booked through the CAMC website.

 

Dover, UK

 

Arriving late in France, we made our first home for the night in an aire, which is an area where you can park and sleep along a major motorway. Unfortunately, we quickly realised that sound insulation was not the strong point of a motorhome, so ear plugs became essential. Luckily, our double bed was very comfortable and we slept until morning.

On day two, the sun came out as we prepared to make our way to Switzerland. It’s a little embarrassing, but for any other novices reading this, we didn’t realise that without being hooked up to a power supply, the motorhome wouldn’t have electricity.

 

France

 

Despite no functioning kettle or coffee machine, we survived the day. Soluble coffee and water boiled on the stove got the job done as we made it to the border. France doesn’t require a vignette (a physical sticker to be displayed in the window) but remember, tolls can be expensive.

 

Switzerland

 

Crossing into Switzerland, we were immediately taken aback by the views, as well as the complete absence of any passport controls. The wide-reaching mountain landscape was a scene we’ll always remember. After a long day, we made it to Préverenges, a lovely and quaint town near Lake Leman, where we met up with some friends who were eager to see our motorhome.

 

Lake Leman, Switzerland

 

We stayed in the area for the third day, enjoying lots of cheese, walking, cycling and a refreshing, cold swim in the lake. Then, we were ready to move on. Our only Swiss souvenir was the vignette. A little expensive for a few hours of driving on the motorway, but it will surely become a nice fridge magnet in the future.

On the fourth day, we entered Italy via the Great St Bernard Pass. Words can’t do it justice, but here’s one: breathtaking. Rodrigo had a lot of fun driving along the twisting, winding roads. He was probably imagining himself riding a motorbike instead.

 

St Bernard Pass, Italy

 

After a few quick stops to take pictures and admire the scenery, the dream of eating authentic, regional pasta soon became our reality. Yes, we were in Italy, so we stopped to buy Italian goodies for the rest of the day.

This happened to be in the beautiful town of Bellagio, where Lago di Como proved to be a challenging destination to manoeuvre a motorhome around. Regardless of the road width, Rodrigo expertly guided us through, despite some grumpy hand gestures from local bus drivers.

 

Bellagio, Italy

 

Our final destination for the day was Bellagio. It’s a small town and the limited camping facilities weren’t suitable for a motorhome. Luckily, we managed to find a car park for large vehicles within a five-minute cycle from the town centre. Here, we met a lovely American couple with whom we shared travelling stories over a glass of Italian red.

Stay tuned for part two next week!

The most annoying driving habits across the UK

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The International Drivers Association (IDA) recently conducted a comprehensive poll across the United Kingdom to shed light on the driving habits that truly get under our skin. 

If you’re heading out in your caravan or motorhome this summer, it’s a good idea to practice proper driving etiquette to avoid making enemies on the way to your destination. 

By surveying 2,500 drivers, the IDA aimed to uncover the actions that irk us the most while we’re navigating the roads. The results are in, and they provide valuable insights into the habits that frustrate drivers on the highways. These are the top five: 

Parking issues

Difficulty finding suitable parking spots, witnessing improper parking (such as occupying multiple spaces) or encountering vehicles that block others provoke frustration among drivers trying to navigate parking areas.

Tailgating

When drivers follow too closely behind, especially at higher speeds, it creates unease and frustration. Tailgating compromises safety and can result in accidents or hazardous situations. 

Slow drivers in the fast lane

Drivers who occupy the left/fast lane while travelling at a slower pace than the surrounding traffic disrupt the flow and cause frustration among other drivers. It’s essential to use the appropriate lanes based on speed to ensure a smooth traffic experience.

Distracted driving

Witnessing other drivers engaging in distracting activities such as texting, talking on the phone, eating or applying make-up is not only exasperating but also compromises the safety of all road users. Maintaining focus on the road is crucial for avoiding accidents.

Failure to use indicators

When drivers neglect to use their turn signals or indicate their intentions at the last moment, it becomes frustrating for other road users. Proper signalling allows drivers to anticipate the actions of others, contributing to safer and more efficient traffic flow.

 

Image credit: Will Truettner / Unsplash

Forget camping, just get a caravan!

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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.

Last weekend, I went camping. Simple, old-school, tent-based camping. Now, this isn’t something I do for pleasure. For activities, absolutely, but for enjoyment I’d much rather use a leisure vehicle.

However, this particular excursion was with my five and seven-year-old children, ten other dads from the school and all of their kids, too. So, I didn’t want to stand out by being the only person to rock up in a motorhome.

Let me tell you now, it was miserable compared to a leisure vehicle staycation. I’m going to explain the differences and then suggest why a caravan beats camping in every single way.

The first thing to note is that we’re currently experiencing a heatwave in the UK. Daytime temperatures were around 30°C and, with nowhere to find shade other than inside the ~37°C tent, things were not feeling pleasant. Additionally, despite being boiling during the day, it was absolutely freezing at night!

Other shortcomings of camping include, but are not limited to:

  • No electric hook up
  • No beds and, once your children jump on the air beds and they pop, you’re forced to sleep on a deflated rubbery disappointment
  • It’s difficult to keep food and drinks cold
  • You have to cook using a back-breaking single ring on the ground and anything you make ends up covered in grass cuttings
  • No storage for cutlery and crockery – rolling over in the night with your face stuck to your dinner plate is unpleasant
  • You can’t take anything reasonable along because fitting everything you need into a car is actually a tall order, even for a guy with a pickup truck!

Camping simply doesn’t offer any of the creature comforts that would actually make the trip fun. I observed some of the other dads, who clearly take these things seriously. Then, it dawned on me. Their setups must have cost nearly as much as a cheap caravan.

Why the caravan is the clear winner

At the time of writing this, I’ve just logged onto Facebook Marketplace. Within a few kilometres of my house, there’s a range of leisure vehicles, starting from £600. Around the £2,500 area, there’s a 1999 Eldis Crusader Superstorm, which was a beast of a caravan back in its day.

These older caravans are generally very simple and come with things like fridges and electric hook ups. If it’s hot, you could bring a fan to help boost circulation inside the vehicle and air mattresses can be left behind, because you’ll have the luxury of actual cushions and bedding.

Instead of a single ring, you’ll have multiple hobs. You might even have an oven, grill or microwave. Cupboards! Now, you can put your clothes, plates and other items into storage. Most importantly, when it’s in tow, you can fill your entire car up with things to enjoy, rather than the bare essentials you’d need to survive, uncomfortably, in a tent.

Those serious dads I mentioned earlier will have spent the amount of money it’d cost to purchase a cheap caravan on their inferior setup. Between the tents, cookers, portable toilets, expensive coolboxes and ice blocks, air mattresses, thermal sleeping bags and other paraphernalia, it really does add up.

All of that expenditure, just to make yourself miserable and cold. Yes, a 1999 caravan potentially may not be your pride and joy, but it will offer you a much better experience than a tent.

People talk about towcars, but these professional campers have had to buy perfectly appropriate, large tow vehicles just to fit what would be in a caravan, into the back of their car!

Then, they take it all out, set it up each time and reap none of the rewards from caravanning. So, for a cost-neutral alternative, skip the camping shop. Get on a second-hand leisure vehicle website and find yourself a cheap and cheerful caravan. You won’t regret it.

Photo credit: Mac DeStroir / Pexels

The heatwave driving hack you need to know about

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As the UK remains hot and sunny throughout the June heatwave, many motorists will be wondering how to keep cool on the road.

For those heading off in their motorhomes, long periods of driving are more than likely. These tourers will be pleased to know the experts at Select Car Leasing have come up with the ultimate driving hack to stop you and your leisure vehicle from overheating.

If your motorhome has an AC unit, look for the recirculation button. We all know it’s there, but we’re willing to bet not many people actually know how to use it properly.

When pressed, the button takes the air within your vehicle and circulates it, rather than pulling in fresh air from outside. This supports your AC to keep you cool. The sun can be unforgiving and, when it is, the recirculation button will be your best friend.

Here are four reasons why this little button is so useful.

1. It keeps you cooler

By stopping hot air from entering the vehicle and circulating what’s already inside, your motorhome will be much cooler. This will make things easier for you, as well as your passengers, especially on long journeys with children and pets.

2. It boosts the life of your AC

Because your AC unit won’t be pulling in hot air from the outside, it won’t need to work as hard. Instead, it will run at an optimal level, allowing your vehicle to quickly become as cold as possible.

Additionally, with less strain on the system, the air filters will stay clean for much longer, increasing the longevity of your vehicle.

3. It prevents pollen and pollution

There’s a secondary benefit to using the recirculation button, especially for those who suffer from hay fever. By keeping the same, cool air inside your motorhome, your AC system will stop dragging in the contaminants of the outside air. This is particularly useful when you’re stuck in traffic, next to a field bursting with vegetation.

4. It reduces fuel consumption

With fuel prices remaining alarmingly high, we’re all looking for ways to save money at the petrol station. During a heatwave, the air recirculation will support the AC system, which in turn will lower the amount of fuel your motorhome uses, as well as save power so the battery lasts longer.

One important tip: if your motorhome has been sitting in the sun for a long period of time, open the windows and turn the AC on to get rid of the hot air. Otherwise, when you hit the recirculation button, you’ll be stuck in a very warm and sweaty vehicle.

Photo credit: Select Car Leasing

Motoring etiquette tips for your next touring adventure

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In today’s fast-paced world, road rage incidents have become all too common, disrupting the harmony of our highways and byways. By practising good road manners on your next summer touring adventure, you can help foster a positive driving culture that prioritises safety, efficiency and courtesy. 

With this in mind, the car experts at cinch have shared some essential tips for being a considerate driver on UK roads. Whether you’re heading out in your caravan, motorhome or car this summer, practising good driving etiquette will make for a much more enjoyable holiday for you and your family. 

Express gratitude

Taking a moment to acknowledge and appreciate the gestures of fellow drivers can go a long way in promoting goodwill on the road.

For example, when another driver kindly allows you to merge onto a busy road, a simple hand raise or nod of gratitude can convey your appreciation. These small acts of kindness create a positive atmosphere and help build mutual respect among drivers. 

However, it’s important not to overstep boundaries. Flashing headlights or using other signals to warn fellow drivers about police checks or speed cameras is considered obstructing an officer in their duty and is against the law.

Be considerate when fuelling up

At fuel stations, it’s important to be mindful of other drivers’ needs. After refuelling and settling the payment, consider pulling into a parking space to allow access to the pump or charger for other drivers. This ensures that everyone can efficiently complete their fuelling tasks without unnecessary delays. 

Responsible horn usage

Excessive honking can create a hostile driving environment and agitate fellow road users. 

Horns should be reserved for situations where another driver’s reckless behaviour poses a direct danger to others. Additionally, a quick toot of the horn can be used to alert others of your presence and help prevent potential accidents. It’s important to be mindful of the impact beeping has, particularly on learners and newly licensed drivers who may find it intimidating. 

The Highway Code specifies that honking should be limited to specific scenarios, and it is also important to adhere to the law’s restrictions on horn usage in built-up areas between 11.30 pm and 7.00 am to avoid antisocial behaviour.

Appropriate music volume 

Enjoying music during our drives is natural, particularly when the sun’s blaring and the window is rolled down. However, it’s important to be considerate of others by keeping the volume at a reasonable level. 

Blasting loud music with open windows not only displays poor etiquette but can also create distractions, making it difficult for pedestrians to hear approaching vehicles and impeding the ability of drivers to perceive emergency sirens. Keeping music at a moderate volume contributes to a safer and more peaceful driving environment.

Maintain optimal speed

Driving at an appropriate speed ensures a smooth flow of traffic and promotes safety on the roads. While it’s important to exercise caution, excessively slow driving can lead to congestion and encourage unsafe overtaking attempts. 

By maintaining a speed relative to the posted limits and road conditions, we contribute to a more predictable and efficient driving experience. It is crucial to strike a balance between cautious driving and keeping up with the flow of traffic.

Avoid misleading gestures

While acts of kindness are generally encouraged, some gestures can be misleading and potentially dangerous. For example, waving someone across the road at a crossing, even with good intentions, can be risky if another vehicle is approaching. It’s important to adhere to the Highway Code, which advises against such gestures to ensure the safety of all road users. 

 

Image credit: Tim Foster / Unsplash

The strange and wonderful sights of caravanning

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We Brits love a staycation. Over a fifth of us are now swapping expensive flights for a UK-based holiday in a leisure vehicle. In 2022, the market for the camping and caravan site industry shot up by a third as people went on 16.7 million caravanning and camping holidays.

It’s now estimated that there are at least 755,000 caravans and motorhomes in regular use across Britain, with an additional 365,000 caravan holiday homes highlighting just how popular this kind of staycation has become.

Many of our readers will already be a part of the leisure vehicle community and will know about some of the stranger sights that are unique to our industry. For those who aren’t as clued up, or haven’t yet been inducted into the weirder side of caravanning, the experts at Pure Leisure have put together some of the more interesting events people have experienced during their holidays.

 

Parking panics

Anyone who’s ever done it before will tell you that reversing your caravan onto your pitch is a technique that demands skill and spatial awareness. Even seasoned veterans with decades of experience can find this difficult to achieve perfectly, so don’t be surprised if you can’t get it quite right on your first go.

Another thing you should expect is to gather attention from your neighbours. A dedicated audience of fellow campers is sure to welcome you with their top tips for reversing as you carefully attempt to back onto your pitch. If you’re lucky, you’ll learn everything there is to know about mirror usage and spatial awareness.

Funnily, the challenge of reversing onto a pitch means that caravans are often parked in weird places, often quite far from where they should be. So, watch out for doubtful driving among your neighbours and gear yourself up for some intense discussions about tow bars, wheel placement and space.

 

Crazy caravans

When it comes to choosing the perfect caravan for you and your family, many aspects must be considered. Space, luxury and functionality are all sizeable factors. But what about a vehicle that has barely any space at all?

The QTvan has everything you could ever need, yet seemingly nothing at all. Measuring 2.39 by 1.53 metres, this tiny caravan can be towed by a mobility scooter or a bike. However, despite its stature, the QTvan is surprisingly luxurious, with a 19” television, minibar and full-size single bed, to mention a few of its amenities.

It has a range of roughly 48km on a single charge, with a whopping top speed of 5 mph. All in all, the QTvan is cute, comfortable and completely weird.

 

Tent tripping

Any person that’s ever set foot on a campsite will understand the sneaky hazard of tent guy lines. In fact, it’s hard to find somebody that hasn’t at least seen a trip or fall. From missteps to faceplants, these pesky ropes may be integral to keeping tents down, but they are bringing people down too and taking no prisoners.

Even worse is that if you’re walking around at night, they’re even more difficult to spot, especially if you don’t have a torch. So, fellow caravanners, watch out! These things could send you flying through the air.

 

The ‘Catavan’

With more than half of holidaymakers wanting to bring their pets along for the ride, it won’t surprise many to see dogs or cats at campsites. But what about their very own caravans?

Once upon a time in Staffordshire, a stray cat wandered onto a caravan dealership. The staff noticed her and decided that she was deserving of her own mobile home. So, a bespoke caravan was developed, perfectly sized for the friendly feline and complete with its own tow bar and set of wheels.

 

Canine capers

If you’ve not been lucky enough to spot a cat with its own caravan on your touring adventures, maybe you’ve come across a particularly athletic dog instead.

One member of the community recalled spotting a fellow camper playing table tennis. Perfectly normal, except for the fact their opposition was a dog. The pup was holding the bat in its mouth, knocking the ball back to its owner. Woof.

 

Goldilocks and the three campers

Like any vehicle, some models of caravans are much more popular than others. This can, unfortunately, lead to some embarrassing campsite mix-ups.

One family returned to their leisure vehicle to discover another couple in their bed. The sleepy campers had been out fishing for the whole day and, upon making their way back to what they believed was their caravan for some well-deserved rest, picked the wrong one.

Both caravans were the same model and colour. To make matters worse, the couple didn’t realise they were in the wrong one until the family woke them up!

Photo credit: Matheus Bertelli / Pexels

5 tips for buying your next leisure vehicle

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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.

Whether your next leisure vehicle is a caravan, campervan, motorhome or even a self-made project, these are my top tips to help you consider exactly what suits your needs best.

There are more than 1,000 different makes and models of leisure vehicle that you could buy new in the UK today. When we see people with one that doesn’t suit their needs, it’s usually because they bought it on impulse, without conducting proper research and taking time to arrive at that decision.

With that said, here are some of the key decisions you should consider when looking for a leisure vehicle to purchase.

 

What do you need?

It’s so easy to fall in love with something that’s nearly right and overlook important areas when you see it. If you’re considering a leisure vehicle, a good place to start is by answering some questions about how you use your current one. These include:

  • How far have you travelled in it?
  • How often have you moved between destinations?
  • How many times have you used it?
  • Where have you taken it before?
  • What type of destinations did you enjoy the most?

These are just examples, but lots of people buy a leisure vehicle based on what they think they’ll use it for and not with any thought about their previous experiences. That’s not to stop you from branching out to try new things, but there needs to be a sense of realism and a benchmark.

A simple list of answers to these questions and others like them will tell you how many berths you’ll require, whether or not you’re likely to be staying in one place or travelling around, your need for manoeuvrability and the importance of prioritising the living space or sleeping accommodation. 

 

Which layout?

There are so many layouts available, so I’d always suggest exploring the various options before looking at specific models. Getting sucked into a particular leisure vehicle without having decided on a layout can lead to serious disappointment.

Consider aspects like the number of berths and whether you want to prioritise a spacious lounge or have fixed beds. When you really think about this, you’ll find the number of available layouts that suit you will drop from around 50 to just two or three.

 

UK or continental design?

British leisure vehicles are designed with different uses in mind to their continental counterparts. In the UK, we prioritise living and interior comfort over sleeping spaces and style, while most on the continent are predominantly in use in much warmer climates. European holidaymakers spend lots more time during the day outside, including cooking and eating.

Conversely, our leisure vehicles are designed for typical British weather. So, additional comfort is required when entire days are spent inside because it’s pouring down with rain. This means they generally offer more comfort, with thermal insulation, carpets and higher-spec kitchens.

Now you have a clearer understanding of your needs, the potential layout you’d want in a leisure vehicle and an idea of whether you’d benefit from a UK or continental style, you’ll have whittled thousands of possibilities to a much more refined selection.

 

Have you done your research?

Speaking of research, explore different manufacturers within your desired category, inspecting each of the layouts in the different ranges that suit your needs. Look carefully at the technical specifications and don’t be dragged too deeply into the styling – this changes, but the spec won’t.

Understand what you’ll be paying for and whether or not you can make the price worth it. This will help you come to an informed decision. It can take quite a deep dive to gather all of the vital information, but it should all be available online or through brochures.

This should allow you to shortlist a number of makes and models to then go and view.

 

What’s the seller’s motivation?

When viewing leisure vehicles, especially at a show or dealership, it’s crucial to remember the salesperson is doing a job. A dealer might be showing you a different model from the one you wanted simply because it’s the only one they have available to sell you at that moment, not necessarily because it’s best for you.

Take time to gather research and come to a dealer armed with it. If you look at other models, judge them against the same criteria you’ve developed from the first four points above.

It’s incredibly easy to get sucked in when you see a shiny new leisure vehicle when it just falls short of your criteria but it’s available to drive away. There’s no rush, so really contemplate your decision, as compromising on your essentials can severely dampen your experiences.

Image credit: Julia Volk / Pexels

Dream Destinations: Sardinia

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Planning a summer getaway in your caravan or motorhome? Why not make the most of the European weather by exploring the enchanting Mediterranean island of Sardinia on wheels? 

Sardinia is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, history buffs and sunseekers alike and the perfect spot to discover on a touring adventure. 

With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine beaches and captivating landscapes, it’s no wonder that Sardinia is a dream destination for many. While there are plenty of ways to explore the Italian island, embarking on a summer holiday in a caravan or motorhome offers a unique and immersive way to explore.

If you already own a caravan or motorhome, you can board one of the regular ferry services that connect Sardinia with the Italian mainland. Ferries depart from various ports including Genoa, Livorno, Civitavecchia and Naples. 

Once you reach the island, you’ll find a well-developed network of roads that meander through picturesque countryside and coastal vistas, as well as an array of meticulously maintained campsites to pitch up. 

If you don’t have your own leisure vehicle, fear not, as there are rental services available on the island.

Starting your journey in Cagliari, the island’s capital, allows you to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and explore its rich history. Be sure to visit the Castello neighbourhood and the iconic Cagliari Cathedral, a majestic structure that stands as a testament to the island’s cultural heritage.

Leaving the city behind, venture southwest and watch as the coastline unfolds before you. Stop for a swim at one of the picturesque beaches of Chia to enjoy golden sand dunes and azure waters. Embark on a boat excursion to explore the nearby island of Sant’Antioco, a haven of pristine beaches and charming fishing villages.

Heading north along the western coast, make a stop at the ancient Phoenician city of Tharros. Marvel at the remarkably preserved ruins, which offer a glimpse into Sardinia’s past. Be sure to visit the stunning cliffs of Capo Caccia which offer breathtaking views of the emerald waters and Neptune’s Grotto, which can be visited by boat. 

As you venture inland, explore Gennargentu National Park, with its rugged mountains and lush forests to enjoy a spot of hiking. Don’t miss the Supramonte region, home to ancient shepherds’ huts called “Nuraghi,” unique stone structures that date back thousands of years. 

No trip to Sardinia is complete without a visit to the renowned Costa Smeralda in the north of the island. This glamorous coastal area boasts pristine beaches, luxurious resorts and vibrant nightlife – as well as being a paradise for touring enthusiasts. Be sure to ditch your leisure vehicle for a day on the water with a boat trip around La Maddalena, a group of islands between Corsica and Sardinia. 

In the east, head to Arbatax, a port town known for its colourful houses and vibrant harbour, then journey north to discover the secluded beauty of Cala Goloritzé and the renowned Cala Mariolu.

Don’t miss any opportunity to savour the island’s traditional cuisine in various restaurants and agriturismi (farmhouses), where you can taste authentic Sardinian dishes including suckling pig or “porcheddu”, zuppa gallurese and culurgiones. 

Whether you want this summer’s touring adventure to be relaxing or adrenaline-fueled, Sardinia offers the perfect environment to explore in a caravan or motorhome. 

 

Image credit: Léonard Cotte / Unsplash

Where are the most dog-friendly beaches in the UK?

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With the majority of Britain being pleasantly surprised by soaring temperatures recently, it’s no surprise that searches for ‘dog-friendly holidays’ have increased by more than 300 per cent.

In these warmer temperatures, humans and their furry pals both need some cooling down. But where should they go?

New research from Showers to You has revealed the highest-rated dog-friendly beaches in the UK, based on Google ratings and reviews for 148 destinations with no dog restrictions.

So, on your next caravan or motorhome adventure, why not head to one of these destinations with your furry friend?

 

Where are pups most welcomed?

For the final scores, user ratings and reviews were taken from Google and each dog-friendly beach was assigned a weighted average.

In terms of the podium, there was no third place. Instead, we saw two beaches that shared second place. These were Three Cliffs Bay in Glamorgan and Mano O’War Beach in Dorset, both with an average dog-friendly score of 8.30 out of 10.00. 

The latter, also known as East Durdle Door, is a pebbled shore with calm waters, perfect for a splash in the sea with your canine companion.

If you were a dog, you might be inclined to move to Dorset, because the area scooped the top spot as well. Durdle Door boasted a score of 8.85 on the dog-friendly scale, eclipsing every other beach in the UK.

A perfect seaside getaway for pups (and their owners), the famous limestone arch can serve as an idyllic backdrop for a game of fetch with your four-legged friend.

Just missing out on a podium place was Marloes Sands, Pembrokeshire, with an impressive dog-friendly score of 8.20. Cuckmere Haven Beach in Sussex and Freshwater West, also Pembrokeshire, were the only other two to put up scores above 8.00, at 8.06 and 8.03, respectively.

Read on for the full top ten list.

Ranking  Beach Location Dog-friendly score (out of 10) 
1 Durdle Door  Dorset 8.85
=2 Man O’War Beach Dorset 8.30
=2 Three Cliffs Bay Glamorgan 8.30
4 Marloes Sands Pembrokeshire 8.20
5 Cuckmere Haven Beach East Sussex 8.06
6 Freshwater West Pembrokeshire 8.03
7 Seacliff Lothian 7.99
8 Porth Joke Cornwall 7.96
9 Gwynver beach Cornwall 7.93
10 Long Sands North Tynemouth Tyne And Wear 7.90

 

Devon swept the dog-friendly beach awards ceremony, with a massive 22 of the total 148 destinations. Also known as ‘Mother Nature’s Playground’, the county is home to the most highly rated destinations to visit with your pup.

Pembrokeshire put up 20 of the beaches and this won’t surprise many. Surrounded by the sea on three sides, it’s no wonder the area has a wide array of wonderful beaches to explore on your next touring holiday with the pets.

Martin Smith, owner of Showers to You, commented: “The beach is synonymous with sunny UK weather, just like BBQs and pub gardens. Though for families, a trip to the beach requires some planning, especially if there is a pet in tow! 

“Being able to bring your furry friend to the beach with you means they get some exercise, and the healing properties of the salt water can improve their coat, restoring it to its natural shine.”

Photo credit: Pajor Pawel / Shutterstock

Essential safety items you should have when driving with your dog

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Whether your four-legged companion comes to work with you or you’re loading up the caravan or motorhome in preparation for a pup-friendly staycation, travelling with our dogs in tow is something all owners will relate to.

However, drivers risk a fine of up to £5,000 for not safely securing their dogs while driving, and you could also be hit with nine points on your licence, as well as your insurance being invalidated.

Luckily, the vehicle experts at Select Van Leasing have put together a list of the safest ways to travel with your pooch, be it up front on the car seats or in a dedicated crate in the back.

Dog seatbelt

This is the most important item to purchase if you intend to travel with your pup and they’re going to be sitting on the seats. A dog seatbelt will keep them securely in place and also prevent you from becoming distracted whilst driving.

It works just like a normal seat belt, with one end plugging into a buckle and another that clips around your dog’s harness.

Harness

Speaking of a dog harness, this is the safest item your canine companion can wear when travelling in a leisure vehicle or car. The harness fits securely around their chest and neck, with built-in padding and a ring on which you’ll clip the seat belt.

Many dog owners will already have a harness for walking their pups – these are much friendlier on your pooch than a collar that pulls harshly on its neck. Likewise, in the event your vehicle comes to an emergency stop, the harness will secure your dog without causing any damage to its neck.

Dog carrier

If your dog is smaller, a nervous traveller or just enjoys its own confined space, then a dog carrier is a great option. You use this alongside the seat belt and harness and it just provides a safe space for your pup to relax in with their favourite blanket or toy.

Back seat barrier

Dogs are known for being friendly creatures, but jumping through the partition and into the front seats when you’re driving can be a dangerous distraction. A back seat barrier will prevent your furry friend from becoming a projectile that could injure you or potentially cause an accident.

Photo credit: freestocks.org / Pexels

Changes to permit law for caravans and motorhomes in Jersey

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In exciting news for travellers, the government of Jersey has announced a significant change to planning laws for those seeking to visit the island in their caravan or motorhome. 

Starting from Wednesday 31st May, visitors planning a stay of 31 days or fewer will no longer need to obtain a permit for their caravans, motorhomes, campervans or trailer tents. This new legislation means that permission will be granted automatically, simplifying the process for tourists and eliminating unnecessary administrative hurdles.

Recognising the inconvenience caused by the previous system, Jersey’s environment minister deputy Jonathan Renouf described it as “overly burdensome” for people who just want to enjoy a relaxing holiday. With the updated permit laws, the government aims to ensure that tourists do not get entangled in unnecessary red tape, allowing them to focus on making the most of their stay on the Channel Island.

While the need for permits has been removed for short-term visitors, some criteria remain in place. These include regulations concerning the size of vehicles, overnight parking locations and the maximum duration of the stay without a permit. However, by eliminating the pre-holiday administrative process, the government hopes to make the experience more straightforward and hassle-free for holidaymakers.

It’s important to note that those planning to stay in Jersey with their vehicle for longer than 31 days will still need to apply for permission.

This progressive move by the Channel Island’s government is guaranteed to attract more tourists, as it simplifies the process for those looking to explore this unique destination in their leisure vehicle for shorter durations. Whether you prefer the comfort of a motorhome, the convenience of a campervan or the simplicity of a trailer tent, Jersey is ready to welcome visitors with open arms and a streamlined permit process. 

For those beginning to plan their summer touring trips, Jersey is an exceptional destination for anyone seeking unforgettable adventures. The charming island boasts stunning coastal landscapes, picturesque countryside and a rich cultural heritage, making it a perfect playground for those exploring in a leisure vehicle. With a well-maintained road network, close proximity to the UK and numerous pitching spots, Jersey is an unforgettable location to explore in a caravan or motorhome. 

 

Image credit: Nick Fewings / Unsplash