The ultimate advice for first-time motorhomers

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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 British staycations become an increasingly popular option, motorhome holidays are an amazing way to explore the great outdoors and sample touring life. A motorhome rental, if done right, provides an excellent opportunity for couples and families to try it for the first time without making a huge commitment.

Having spoken and listened to many of our readers, lots of people are setting off for their first motorhome rental holiday and asking for advice. So, here are some of my best tips for you.

In a single article, I can’t tell you how to drive and operate your motorhome. This is just to point you in the right direction. CaravanTimes isn’t the only source of information out there either. A huge amount of information and instruction exists online for every motorhome, so go and get a flavour for yours.

 

Picking up the motorhome

Typically, you’ll need to go to another location to pick up your motorhome. The individual or company renting it out will give you a tour and the appropriate documentation. It’s very important to listen to what’s said.

Before you go, I’d recommend that you divvy up topics between yourself and your companions. You might have to travel a long distance to pick up the motorhome and if you’re tired, it’s a lot to take in. So, between any adults in your party, split the areas you’ll each focus on. You might listen closely when your guide is talking about water, whilst the next person will concentrate on waste and so on.

Make sure you also find out where the backup information is after your induction. Is there a booklet? A website? If I have this specific fault, how can I find out what to do? Of course, it’s a rental, so it’s not your job to fix the vehicle, but it’s often user error rather than an internal fault that will stop you from enjoying your holiday.

 

Don’t be too ambitious

Think about your first few nights very carefully. On the first one, don’t arrive tired. If you’re planning to tour the northern coast of Scotland but will be picking up the vehicle in Yorkshire, it’s worth planning a stop along the way. If you’re knackered, it’ll be exponentially more difficult to get to grips with your new rental.

Moreover, if you’re planning to head off-grid, perhaps to a beautiful, certified location, or even wild camping, factor this into your planning. For your first night, I’d suggest going to one of the larger CAMC sites for several reasons. They’re generally great for access, provide good services and are always filled with lots of other holidaymakers. 

The other people on site will have a combined touring experience of thousands of years and, in my experience, caravanners and motorhomers are some of the friendliest faces you’ll ever find. If you’re struggling with anything, you can just ask your neighbour and nine times out of ten they’ll be happy to help.

 

Equipment you wouldn’t think to take

Of course, there are touring essentials, as well as other bits of kit you’d be smart to have on hand, but what about the equipment nobody really ever talks about?

Firstly, post-it notes and a pen. With these, you can stick notes on things like the steering wheel to say: “The electric cable is plugged in – don’t drive off!” In fact, you can place them all over the cab to note the height and width of your motorhome. Particularly with rentals, they can often be higher than a typical van and this is where newbies have often been caught out under low bridges!

Other things I’d strongly recommend you consider include cloths, which can be used to reduce noise whilst driving. I carry a huge bag which I use to stuff between rattling drawers, wrap around crockery or wedge doors shut. Bungee straps are another great tool for securing items in place whilst you’re on the road.

Also, duct tape. The beauty of renting is that everything should work when you pick it up, and if it doesn’t, it’s someone else’s problem! Little things, like a door swinging around, can be fixed with a tiny bit of duct tape. I’m not saying bring the whole toolbox along, but do take some things that can help.

General safety tips

Even if your motorhome has air conditioning, do not leave your pets or children inside. These leisure vehicles can get incredibly hot! The AC can malfunction and some are very airtight, making them unsafe in hotter climates.

Before you set off, you must switch off the gas. This should be covered in your manual, but it’s a classic mistake that people make when operating a motorhome. Additionally, avoid driving with a full water and/or waste tank. It will really affect the vehicle and the tank(s) can become dislodged, so take the time to reduce your water level before heading off.

Your tyre pressure should be checked regularly. A blowout on any vehicle isn’t a fun experience, but given the dimensions and top-heaviness of motorhomes, it’s much more important to avoid issues with the tyres. You can get a cheap digital pressure gauge and I’d recommend using it each time you head off for the day.

Renting a motorhome for the first time can be one of the best adventures you’ll ever have. However, it can also be mired by silly mistakes or misunderstandings. So, hopefully, this article has signalled a few things that can make your trip as enjoyable as possible. 

The biggest tip of all? Ask, ask, ask!

Photo credit: Kampus Production / Pexels

The most sought-after staycation facilities revealed

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New research from online booking platform UKcaravans4hire.com has identified the top ten most-searched-for facilities that static caravan owners could take advantage of to increase their rental revenue.

Ahead of the summer months and holiday rush, which will see half of Brits favouring a staycation over a trip abroad, it might be useful to know what you can add to your static caravan to maximise bookings throughout the season.

It won’t shock many readers to know that coming out on top was the hot tub. Caravans with this feature were the most searched for, suggesting that holidaymakers are hoping to add a more luxurious touch to their 2023 staycations.

The research also found that, on average, caravans with hot tubs charge 46 per cent more than those without, making it a lucrative investment for owners wanting to earn more from renters.

Without breaking the bank, simply advertising your holiday home as pet-friendly appeals to a much wider audience. This was the next largest search term from users of the caravan booking platform. Just last month, there were over 3,600 searches for pet-friendly holidays on Google.

To fill the final podium position, verandas came in as the third most-searched-for facility. Read on for the full list of the top ten terms:

  1. Hot tub
  2. Pet-friendly
  3. Veranda
  4. Indoor pool
  5. Wi-Fi
  6. Local beach
  7. Amusements
  8. Outdoor pool
  9. Double glazing
  10. Central heating

Akosua Akobeng, head of guest marketing at UKcaravans4hire.com, said: “It’s interesting to see just what Brits are looking for when finding their perfect holiday home and, actually, just how many of the top ten, such as Wi-Fi and central heating, come as standard with the majority of our listings.”

Photo credit: Barnabas Davoti / Pexels

Top UK summer hiking trails to explore on your staycation

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Summer is a great time to hit the road in your caravan or motorhome and explore the incredible and diverse hiking trails that the UK has to offer. 

With its rolling hills, rugged coastline and unique landscapes, the UK is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Today, we highlight some of the best summer hiking trails to explore on your caravan or motorhome trip.

West Highland Way, Scotland

The West Highland Way is a 96-mile hiking route that takes you through some of the most spectacular scenery in Scotland. Starting in Milngavie, just outside of Glasgow, the trail winds its way through the Scottish Highlands, past spectacular lochs, mountains and glens. 

Taking about a week to complete, you can break the path up into smaller sections and explore the wider area in your leisure vehicle. With its stunning scenery and challenging terrain, the West Highland Way is a must-do hike for any outdoors enthusiast.

Pembrokeshire Coast Path, Wales

This 186-mile hiking trail runs along the coast of Wales and takes you past rugged cliffs, sandy beaches and charming coastal towns, as well as offering breathtaking views of the turquoise sea. 

To walk part of the route on your touring trip, break it into more manageable sections that allow you to leave early in the morning and return to the campsite by the end of the day. 

South Downs Way, England

If you want to see rolling hills, ancient woodlands and picturesque towns, consider heading to the South Downs Way in your caravan or motorhome. 

This 100-mile hiking trail runs through the South Downs National Park in southern England. It would take about a week to hike the whole path, or you can do parts of it on different days. It’s a great hike for those who want to experience the beauty of the English countryside.

The Causeway Coast Way, Northern Ireland

A 33-mile hiking trail that runs along the coast of Northern Ireland, the Causeway Coast Way takes you through some of the country’s most iconic landmarks, including the Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle and the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. 

The hike offers breathtaking views of the North Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline. There are plenty of reputable and unique campsites to pitch up at along the way and rest your weary legs after a long day of walking. 

The Coast to Coast Walk, England

The longest route on our list, the Coast to Coast trail runs from St. Bees on the west coast of England to Robin Hood’s Bay to the east.

The route takes you through three national parks, the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors, and offers stunning views of the English countryside. You can hike the entire trail in about two weeks, or drive it in your leisure vehicle and stop along the way.  

 

Image credit: Patrycja Kwiatkowska / Pixabay

7 items to improve your caravanning experience

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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 recently been thinking about some of the small purchases I’ve made that have transformed my experience with caravans, so why not share them? These are tiny little things that can make touring easier and can be used over and over again.

This is not an endorsement of any product mentioned, but I will say roughly how much you can buy them for. If things are good value for money, it’s almost silly not to have them.

Most items on this list are specific to caravans, although some apply to motorhomes too. Those who have been touring for a long time may already have a few.

13-pin cap – £5

When you’re towing, an electric cable runs between your towcar and caravan to power the lights, indicators and so on. Well, you can get a cap for the end of it which, primarily, is used to protect the cord.

However, I use it because bending down and inserting a 13-point twist into the car, under the towbar, whilst lifting the flap which protects the socket, is a nightmare.

Sometimes, it doesn’t go on because the mechanism inside has moved slightly and needs realigning. With the cap, you can test and realign whilst standing up, where you can see perfectly and use both hands.

If it doesn’t attach easily, it will realign as you twist the cap into position. Considering the number of times I’ve scuffed my knees and gotten wet, dirty and muddy trying to attach the electric cable to the car, this is a well-spent £5.

Digital tyre pressure gauge – £8

Everybody says they check their tyres all the time. With caravans, the frequency at which tyres go down is much higher than with cars, so you should really check them before every journey. Often, this isn’t the case.

Swapping wheels at the side of the road is not a fun experience and sometimes catastrophic things happen when you don’t notice a tyre is blown, or partially deflated. An electronic gauge takes two seconds to tell you the pressure before you set off each time. Personally, this has saved me a lot of money in replacement tyres and, of course, potential accidents.

Extra-long jump leads – £15

Almost every driver will have a set of jump leads, but you can pick up extra-long ones that are three to four metres long. Caravans are notorious for having leaky electrics and they’re commonly left for long periods, where the battery is liable to drain.

There’s a reason why every supply shop has a huge stack of leisure batteries. When fully discharged, they are no longer able to be charged back up. So, if you think your battery is broken, simply pull your car up to anywhere within the length of your jump leads and turn the engine off. 

Connect your leads, leave it for ten minutes and in most cases this will give your battery enough juice for the charger to recognise it, recovering your battery and saving you hundreds of pounds, as well as a bad back.

Awning rail hooks – £2

Most caravans have awning rails around both sides. You can buy little hooks that feed into these rails, which can be exceptionally useful. I’ve used these for running fairy lights, hanging clothes to dry, securing flexible waste pipes under the caravan and, even my most inventive use, transporting surfboards.

Tow ball bumper guard – £8

This is essentially a piece of metal in between your tow ball and the bumper of your towcar. Perhaps somewhat unsightly, this is an incredibly helpful tool.

If, like myself, you take great pride when hitching up by getting as close as you can in the car, but through fear of dents and scratches you invariably park one centimetre away from where it could be easily hooked on – this is for you.

Instead of manhandling the last centimetre backwards and forwards with the handles, which manufacturers strongly urge you not to do, a tow ball guard allows you to get a little bit closer without scratching your bumper.

Over-hook joist hangers – £8 a pair

When towing a caravan, the weight of its contents can vastly affect your experience. When properly weighted, they’re simple to tow, as long as you always carry your heaviest items above the axle. 

However, despite loading your items there, they may still move all over when you accelerate, brake, or hit bumps and corners. You can buy cargo bars for £50 to £100, but if it’s your own caravan, some over-hook joist hangers and a well-cut piece of 3×3 achieve the same desired outcome.

Hook your hangers over the edge of your seats and simply drop the bar into place. They might need a little adjustment to fit perfectly, which can be done easily with a pair of mole grips. Simply detach, throw your 3×3 underneath the seats and off you go.

Damp tester – £15

Very much a mental battle for me, as caravans 15 years ago were much more leaky. Modern ones, though, are exceptionally watertight. However, it’s good for your own peace of mind to regularly test prone areas for damp – every six months is recommended.

I give a damp tester to my children and they win a prize if they manage to find any damp with it. Early detection will mean a much easier fix than if you let it sneak up on you.

Some readers might have one or more of these items, whilst others could have them lying around the house. Either way, they’re some little things that I’ve found to improve my overall experience.

Photo credit: Matheus Bertelli / Pexels

Road Safety Week: Driving without a licence

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Road Safety Week is in full swing in the UK. However, research has shown that hundreds of drivers are out on the road despite having their licences revoked because they’ve been deemed not fit to drive.

Of course, this is a serious and incredibly dangerous crime, and it’s known as an ‘LC50 offence’, or ‘driving after a licence has been cancelled or refused on medical grounds’.

Individuals can have their licence cancelled or refused on medical grounds, and motorists have a duty to tell the DVLA about any issues that could affect their driving. Common conditions include visual impairment, epilepsy and severe mental illness.

Unfortunately, not everyone is ready to give up driving just because their licence has been revoked or denied. A recent freedom of information request to the DVLA, by Select Car Leasing, highlighted 1,303 prosecutions for LC50 offences since 2019.

In 2021, 269 individuals were caught in the act, down from a staggering 412 offences the year before. 

Additionally, there were some regional hotspots for unfit drivers risking their own lives, as well as those around them. London, Glasgow and Norwich were all prominent features on the blacklist, with Leicester and Poole following closely behind to round off the top five.

In terms of the most populous locations for LC50 offences, Glasgow topped the list with a whopping 5.6 per 100,000 non-fit drivers per capita. In Bristol, the figure was 2.5 and 1.9 in Edinburgh.

The full top ten list for regions with dangerous drivers includes:

  1. Glasgow – 5.6 per 100,000
  2. Bristol – 2.5 per 100,000
  3. Edinburgh – 1.9 per 100,000
  4. London – 1.5 per 100,000
  5. Plymouth – 1.1 per 100,000
  6. Birmingham – 0.9 per 100,000
  7. Aberdeen – 0.8 per 100,000
  8. Sheffield – 0.8 per 100,000
  9. Manchester – 0.6 per 100,000
  10. Cardiff – 0.2 per 100,000

The freedom of information request also uncovered a further eight prosecutions for ‘driving after making a false declaration about fitness when applying for a licence’ offences. 

Besides the risk of prosecution, you can be fined up to £1,000 if you do not tell the DVLA about a medical condition that affects your driving.

Photo credit: Davis Sanchez

Explore the Welsh Coastal Route this summer

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Not sure where your next touring destination will be? Head to the Welsh coastline in your caravan or motorhome to make the most of the Great British summer. 

Wales is a country of rugged natural beauty and stunning coastline, and there’s no better way to explore it than by hopping in your leisure vehicle and hitting the open road. 

One of the best routes to take is the Welsh Coastal Route, which winds its way along the country’s western shores from Chester in the north to Chepstow in the south.

Start your journey in Chester before heading west along the A55 towards the coast, passing through the seaside resort of Rhyl and onto the marvellous Llyn Peninsula. This area is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and you’ll quickly see why as you drive along winding roads, past golden sands and through quaint villages. 

The Llyn Peninsula is home to some of the best beaches in the UK, and there are plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the scenery along the way. One of the highlights is Porthdinllaen, a tiny village home to a famous pub situated at the end of the pier. Park up your caravan or motorhome in one of the nearby campsites and spend the day exploring all that this area has to offer.

Continuing south along the Welsh Coastal Route, you’ll pass through the towns of Aberystwyth and Aberaeron, where you can see the colourful houses that line the harbour, enjoy a seafood lunch in one of the many restaurants or take a relaxing stroll along the coastal path. You might even cool off with a dip if the weather permits. 

Further south, you’ll come to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, which boasts some of the most dramatic coastline in the UK, with towering cliffs, secluded coves and blissful beaches. The park is also home to several famous towns, including Tenby, St David’s and Fishguard, all of which are well worth a visit.

Be sure to visit the magnificent cathedral in St David’s, which dates back to the 12th century, and take a boat trip to Ramsey Island, a nature reserve home to seals, dolphins and a variety of birdlife. In Tenby, you can explore the winding streets of the mediaeval walled town, or relax on one of the many beaches.

Continuing along the Welsh Coastal Route, you’ll pass through the towns of Carmarthen and Swansea before finishing your drive in Chepstow. Here, you can explore the 11th-century castle or walk along the banks of the River Wye.

On the way, you’ll find plenty of campsites and caravan parks where you can pitch up your vehicle and spend the night. Many of these campsites are located in breathtakingly gorgeous locations, with sea views or surrounded by the rolling hills of the Welsh countryside.

 

Image credit: Taylor George / Unsplash

The benefits of syndicate caravanning

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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 week, I asked the community for the biggest, baddest campsite water parks across Europe. So far, the responses have thrown up some amazing destinations. As such, I’m extending the deadline for another week. Let us know your recommendations by emailing or reach out to @CaravanTimes on Twitter.

Now, let’s talk caravan syndicates.

There must be a huge number of people that want to try caravanning. It could be previous leisure vehicle owners who want to get back into it, first-time holidaymakers who fancy heading off with their families or even retirees looking for a great way to spend their time.

One thing that is certain, though, is that caravanning comes with a cost barrier. Realistically, including the price of a third-hand caravan in useable condition and a towcar, like an older Porsche Cayenne, there’s almost £10,000 worth of up front costs. Then, you’ve got things like insurance, storage and maintenance, all of which create an entry barrier.

 

How to start caravanning for a fraction of the price

Bear in mind that the average caravan is used somewhere between five to eight weeks each year. Usually, this is made up of a combination of weekends, short trips and long holidays. Most of our readers will surely agree that’s a lot of downtime for the leisure vehicle.

This is what sparked my idea. For a second, let’s think about boats. They’re expensive to purchase and require pricey maintenance, but people love them. Like caravans, they have storage, can be lived in and they have to be moored, all of which present a cost barrier.

Something you might not have known is that plenty of people are involved in boat syndicates. These are made up of individuals who want to indulge their passion, or give it a go for the first time, but don’t want to commit entirely to the price of boat ownership.

Maybe they want the community element of owning with a group of like-minded people, but actually many of the small boats out on the sea belong to syndicates. This significantly reduces the cost each person has to cover and also how much any single individual needs to do in terms of maintenance.

So, could we take this model and apply it to caravanning? I don’t see why not. Let’s look at some of the key considerations when it comes to syndicates.

 

How many people are in the syndicate?

Really, this comes down to how many people are interested and how often you’ll each want to use the leisure vehicle. Of course, there are 52 weeks in the year and if you divide that by the average caravan usage of five weeks, you could potentially have 11 separate owners.

Practically, there will be peak times when it’s much more desired, such as the spring and summer months, and especially the school holidays. There are roughly 20 weeks of school holidays which you’ll need to consider if families are involved in the syndicate.

The more people you have, the less each of you will have to pay. But this comes with less freedom and availability. For me, the perfect number would be five or six.

 

What leisure vehicle should you choose?

It depends largely on the syndicate purchase budget. The proliferation of sites like Facebook and WhatsApp means that everyone can easily throw in their suggestions. But what should be clear before you start is an agreed budget and the group’s needs.

For me, a double lounge layout would be optimal for multi-occupancy use. This allows couples to convert the rear lounge into a bed and leave it up permanently whilst still having a nice living area. For families, the multiple sleeping options will offer lots of choice with different sleeping areas.

 

Which towcar should you purchase?

As a Caravan and Motorhome Club Towcar of the Year (TCOY) judge, I’m always shocked by how well some of the vehicles perform. One of the best we’ve tested is a Cayenne across multiple years. Once they reach eight to ten years old, the price of these towcars plummets and you gan get one for incredible value at around £3,500.

Let’s say your syndicate sets aside £5,000 for a caravan, £3,500 for a towcar, £500 on an initial service (always do this on older vehicles!) and £1,000 for anything else that needs to be fixed, or accessories the group agrees upon.

That works out as an initial investment of roughly £2,000 each. Whilst they are of course depreciating assets, they hold their value if maintained. Compared to new caravans, the difference is much lower too. So, if you decide to leave the syndicate, your share can be sold and some of your £2,000 redeemed. Even if kept in reasonable condition for four years, you’d likely still get £1,000 back.

 

Set some ground rules

I’ve researched some syndicates in the boat community. They don’t need to go through a solicitor and simple Google documentation can be used as a booking system.

It’s essential that your group get together (maybe over a glass of wine) or at least communicate what is expected upon pickup and return of the caravan. Some syndicates use a weighted booking system, meaning that you can book for longer periods in the off-peak season.

It doesn’t need to be rigid, but it can be to eliminate ambiguity. Also, agree on a buy-in and buy-out price. In my example, it might be £1,000 to sell your initial stake. This can be offered to the group, or an individual within it, before a new person gets the chance to join. 

 

Practicalities and ongoing costs

Depending on how close you are geographically to other members of your syndicate, and given the costs of maintenance are split equally between all participants, I’d suggest that you leave the towcar and caravan at a CaSSOA storage facility.

These are accredited and you can book two spaces. They offer key drop and collection services, or you could have a key box installed. Many also provide on-site cleaning facilities and some even offer caravan maintenance, which you could book when out of use. They’ll take, service and return it.

Storage ranges from £20 to £40 and you may need to pay twice to include the towcar, meaning an ongoing cost of between £5 to £10 a month in a syndicate of five, or much less in a group of 11.

Insurance is another important consideration. You can take out a specialist policy, or just a temporary one for when you want to use the caravan. Typically, the latter cost between £30 to £50 for a one or two-week holiday. A group policy, however, will be priced from £700 to £1,000 per year, depending on the ages and circumstances of group members.

You’ll also need breakdown cover. If you own a car, you’re probably already covered. Remember though, most work by recovering the person, not the vehicle. Double-check that your policy also includes towing a caravan and take a look at the Caravan and Motorhome Club’s Red Pennant for continuation insurance.

 

Are caravan syndicates a good idea?

All in all, with the price of storage, maintenance and a service each year, members of a five-person syndicate will need to pay roughly £2,000. This is the pessimistic number and still yields an ongoing cost of just £400 per member, per year.

This means that for less than the price of a one-week school holiday trip to Centerparcs, you can have up to ten weeks each year in a caravan, with a towcar, and the freedom to go anywhere.

What a fantastic way to do it! This also allows you to sample the caravan lifestyle with far less cost and hassle. You’ll have the opportunity to learn from your fellow group members, share ideas and discuss places you’ve visited. I think it’s an excellent way of getting into our beautiful world of caravanning.

Photo credit: Alfo Medeiros / Pexels

Making the most of the weather across Europe

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For Brits planning to head to Europe in their caravans and motorhomes this year, the promise of warm, sunny weather is one of the greatest attractions. Destinations like Portugal and Spain boast long daylight hours and highs of 30 degrees C.

But travelling abroad at the wrong time could mean extreme heat, heavy rain or even snow storms. Luckily, the experts at Panache Cruises have researched the best and worst times to visit some of Europe’s most popular countries for leisure vehicle holidays.

Spain

The climate in Spain varies by region and heading there between March and May is ideal. Spring weather makes for a warm, but not too hot, adventure. If you’re seeking high temperatures, avoid off-peak months like January and February, as at this time lows can be around six degrees.

Portugal

With over 3,000 hours of sunlight each year, Portugal is one of the sunniest countries on the continent. Summer stretches from May until September and throughout this time, the weather rarely drops below 25 degrees.

France

A little different, France has a very warm south that boasts an average temperature of 28 degrees throughout the summer, but a much more chilly north. For those looking for a ski holiday, January offers the best powder and off-peak prices.

Italy

Like France, Italy’s northern region can be a little colder than the south. However, both offer lovely weather in the spring and summer months. During peak times, the north makes a perfect destination for anybody wanting to soak up the sun, with highs of up to 40 degrees. Plan to go at the right time though, as the winters bring lows of -5 degrees.

Ireland

The Emerald Isle is one of the most popular destinations for Brits looking to take in some breathtaking scenery, but the weather isn’t so different from the UK. Autumn and winter months spell heavy rainfall, but the long summer days can bring highs of 25 degrees.

Germany

From June to September, Germany boasts very pleasant weather. However, unpredictable and heavy showers, rain and snow are common throughout the spring. For a white winter, visiting between December and February is recommended, with snowfall common in mountainous areas.

Photo credit: Pixabay / Pexels

Tips to maximise storage space in your leisure vehicle

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With the weather slowly improving, many Brits are gearing up to take a spring or summer touring holiday. If you’re planning a motorhome or campervan adventure, proper organisation and storage solutions are crucial. 

Not only will efficient use of space make your journey more comfortable, but it also enables you to carry all the essential items without feeling cramped. 

Whether you own a leisure vehicle or you plan on renting one, these practical motorhome and campervan storage tactics will help you save room and make the most of your travel experience.

Plan and prioritise 

Create a list of items you will need during your trip and order them based on their importance and frequency of use. This will help you identify the essentials and avoid overpacking, making it easier to organise and store your belongings effectively. 

Invest in multi-functional furniture and appliances

Look for items that can serve multiple purposes, such as a foldable table that can be used both inside and outside, or a combination cooker that includes an oven, stovetop and grill. This will not only save room but also reduce the number of items you need to purchase and take away with you. 

Make the most of vertical space

Install shelves, hooks and magnetic strips to maximise the vertical space inside your leisure vehicle. This will allow you to store items, freeing up the floor and making your living area feel more spacious. 

Consider using pegboards on the walls, which allow you to attach hooks, shelves and baskets to store a variety of items, such as kitchen utensils and maintenance tools.

Purchase collapsible containers 

Collapsible containers can be compressed when not in use and take up minimal space. Moreover, they can be used for various purposes, such as storing food, laundry or even as a portable rubbish bin. 

Pack clothes in vacuum storage bags 

These bags can be used to compress clothes, towels, bedding and other materials to reduce their volume and make it easier to store them in tight areas. Additionally, vacuum storage bags keep your belongings clean and protected from damp, dust and insects.

Stock up on nesting bowls and measuring spoons 

A practical tip that can save you cupboard space is to invest in nesting bowls and measuring spoons. These essential items are designed to fit inside each other, minimising the amount of storage capacity required. In addition, they are easy to locate and use when you need them for cooking or baking.

Remember, it’s not just about having a well-organised motorhome or campervan, but also about enjoying the journey and creating lasting memories. So, embrace efficient storage solutions for a stress-free and enjoyable experience on the road. 

 

Image credit: Lawton Cook / Unsplash

Vet shares top tips for pet-friendly road trips

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The upcoming bank holiday weekend will see millions of people around the world tuning in to watch the King’s Coronation. Naturally, many pet owners will be wanting to make the most of the extra day off and head out with the whole family.

However, long journeys in a car or leisure vehicle can be distressing for our furry friends. To help with this, Chief Veterinary Consultant Dr Brendan Clark, of leading pet food and wellbeing company Bella & Duke, has put together some of the best ways to get your dog feeling comfortable.

1. Wind down the windows

Just like us, one of the best ways to ensure your pet is relaxed is to let them sit back and enjoy the ride. Roll down the windows to allow fresh air in and switch on the AC to avoid overheating.

2. Take it easy

Your dog doesn’t have the same understanding of physics as you do, so sharp and jerky movements will make them feel uneasy. Drive as smoothly as you can and factor in some time for pit stops to let them stretch their legs.

3. Start small

If your pet isn’t used to sitting in the car or leisure vehicle for long rides, build them up to it by starting with short journeys. Even if it’s just around your neighbourhood, they’ll become more accustomed and find longer trips much easier.

4. Bring home comforts

Being in a vehicle can seem a little scary for any dog, so why not take along something from home to help settle them? It could be their blanket, a toy they love to play with or even their bed. This can make all the difference.

5. Offer treats

Treats are always a winning way to reward your pup. During a long journey, make sure to praise your dog and give them nibbles to create a positive environment. Chewing is a great way to calm your pet down, reduce anxiety and keep them occupied.

Photo credit: PNW Production / Pexels

Water parks, Vanny Adams and a conversion life hack

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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.

In previous editions of the Cartwright Chronicle, I’ve shared plenty of advice for caravanners and motorhomers. Now, it’s time to ask our wonderful audience for a favour.

I’m planning a week-long family holiday this summer, either in the UK or in Europe, and I’m looking for the campsite with the biggest, wildest waterpark. The kind that I know exist, but are rather difficult to find. Think multiple slides, wet and wild, with a T25 in the car park.

When I was a child, I loved camping with a pool because it offered something to do every day. Now, I want my five and seven-year-olds to experience that too. They are a little spoiled though, so the bigger the better!

Anybody can send an email to let me know their thoughts on campsites, water parks and any other kid-friendly activities they might have come across elsewhere. We’ll be travelling in June, so the weather should be great for all kinds of outdoor adventures.

Next week, I’ll share some of the best responses, in case anybody else is in a similar situation and looking for an ambitious and spectacular campsite for the little ones.

Please do get in touch!

 

What’s going on with sweet Vanny Adams?

Old Volkswagens have a huge following. The interior can be changed, swapped, worked on and adapted, but maintaining the engine is crucial. Since purchasing Vanny Adams, we’ve replaced the timing belt and water pump, as well as given her new fluids and filters.

However, anyone who’s owned or worked on an old VW might be aware of the issues that arise when topping up the coolant. It’s quite a tricky process compared to most other vehicles, as the reserve tank is located below the top height of the radiator, which has a bleed valve on the top.

The idea behind the design is that you fill from the reserve tank at the rear, run the engine to pump it, then stop and repeat. The problem is that you can never quite be sure if you’ve gotten the air out and filled the system.

So, having the correct engine coolant and volume is essential. Luckily, I’m pleased to say that I’ve found the best tool for the job and I’d like to share it with you. 

A two-way vacuum filler, which is an air compressor attachment that costs between £50 to £100, will save you a lot of trouble. Using this handy gadget, you just need to have a bucket (or several) with pre-mixed coolant to hand.

Attach the two-way pump to your water system after draining to suck all the air out. This also checks your pipes – if you can’t get good pressure, there must be a crack. Once it reaches 1.5 bar (just under 22 psi), flip the switch while the other suction end is in the coolant, and it will drag your new fluid directly in.

I’ve tried and tested this method and I can guarantee that it’s a certified faff-saver, giving peace of mind for sufficient cooling and even providing a health check on your pipes as a bonus.

 

A van conversion tip to save time and money

Van conversions are incredibly popular. It’s probably fair to say that almost all of these are motorhomes, as not many people would be able to build their own caravan. But the idea of taking an existing vehicle, like a panel or camper van, and installing your own furniture, gives you a unique ability to style it however you see fit.

Some people believe it can save you money whilst others would disagree, but converting a van does have its pitfalls. Insulation, electric wiring and switches can be problematic, as well as buying everything you need to make it safe, such as 12-volt adapters, inverters, water pumps and more. The whole process can start to become very pricey.

Recently, I was talking to someone currently converting a minibus and he had a brilliant idea. He bought the cheapest caravan he could find, which was leaky and worth very little. This became a donor for his conversion.

The list of items he managed to transfer from the caravan to his conversion is extensive. It includes almost everything from the fridge and cooker to the gas, fittings, adaptors and pipes. He even took the water pump, drainage system and most of the lighting and cabling.

Then, he took the switch gears. This made me think about how time-consuming it is to find everything you’d need for a van conversion. If this person had bought all of his switch gears on the second-hand market, it would have taken him a very, very long time and he might even have run into compatibility issues.

So, buying a donor caravan is an excellent idea and, ironically, once he stripped the caravan, it was then wanted by someone else who intended to turn it into a playhouse for their children.

This feels like a really great way to recycle and a fantastic method to ensure the components in your self-conversion are appropriate, safe and tested when installed originally, in the same way, in your leisure vehicle.

One note from me, though. Getting the cooker out? Not fun. Generally, these are installed before the walls and roof, so if you’re thinking about trying this for yourself, look for a really old caravan with a large front window.

If anyone else has any tips or ideas for converters, do share them and please let me know about the most exciting kids campsite you’ve been to. Stay tuned for the follow-up next week.

Photo credit: Juan Salamanca / Pexels

Dream Destinations: Explore the natural beauty of the Norfolk Broads

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Many Brits are planning holidays closer to home this year amid the ongoing cost of living crisis and airport chaos and cancellations. Today, we’re bringing back our popular Dream Destinations series to tell you why the Norfolk Broads should be on your UK touring bucket list. 

The Norfolk Broads is a stunning network of waterways that spans over 125 miles of navigable rivers and lakes in the East of England. A place of natural beauty, tranquillity and unique wildlife, it’s one of the most popular UK destinations for caravan and motorhome enthusiasts to explore.

This man-made national park was created by the flooding of mediaeval peat workings. Today, it’s a protected area that is home to a variety of rare birds, animals and plants, as well as picturesque villages, historic buildings and scenic countryside.

Exploring the Norfolk Broads is an unforgettable experience that allows you to immerse yourself in nature, history and culture. Whether you choose to hire a boat, walk, cycle or drive, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Many people choose to explore the Norfolk Broads in a leisure vehicle. There are countless caravan parks and campsites in the area, offering a range of facilities and spots to pitch up so you can explore this incredible location at your own pace.

Activities to enjoy in the Norfolk Broads 

There are over 100 miles of navigable waterways to explore, with various boats available to hire, from traditional wooden sailing boats to modern vessels. Take a leisurely cruise through the winding lakes, meres and dykes stopping along the way at riverside pubs for a pint of local ale before mooring up to explore charming villages and market towns.

The Broads is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Home to over 300 bird species, including kingfishers, bitterns, and marsh harriers, this is a fantastic spot for birding. You may also be lucky enough to spot otters, water voles and rare butterflies. There are several nature reserves to visit, such as Hickling Broad, where you can take a boat tour for a chance to spot the elusive swallowtail butterfly.

For those who prefer to keep their feet on dry land, there are countless walking and cycling routes to explore. For instance, Weavers Way is a 61-mile footpath that winds through the heart of the national park, passing through picturesque villages and nature reserves. All the cycling routes in the area are well-signposted and take you along quiet country lanes and scenic off-road tracks. 

History and culture buffs will also find plenty to discover. Visit heritage buildings, such as the mediaeval ruins of St Benet’s Abbey, and the picturesque windmills that dot the landscape – a remnant from the days when they were used to grind corn and pump water. 

Best spots to pitch up in the Norfolk Broads

Caravanning is a great option for those who prefer to bring their accommodation with them and enjoy more space and flexibility than a boat or hotel can offer. Moreover, it’s an affordable way to travel with the whole family and immerse yourself in the best that Britain has to offer. 

Many of the caravan parks and campsites in the Norfolk Broads are located in picturesque spots, with stunning views over the water or surrounding countryside. They offer a range of facilities to guarantee your comfort and some even feature their own boat hire facilities. Here are our picks for the top spots to pitch up in the area. 

  1. Norfolk Broads Caravan Club Site: Operated by the Caravan and Motorhome Club, this site is located on the banks of the River Thurne and offers pitches for caravans and motorhomes. Situated nearby the historic town of Potter Heigham and the Hickling Broad Nature Reserve, this site has its own facilities.
  2. Waveney River Centre: This award-winning park lies on the shore of River Waveney and features a range of accommodation options for all budgets, including luxury lodges, glamping pods and touring pitches for caravans and motorhomes. The park has its own marina and boat hire, as well as an indoor pool, restaurant and play area for children.
  3. BeWILDerwood Camping: For a truly unique experience, consider staying at BeWILDerwood Camping, located within the BeWILDerwood adventure park. The attraction is based on the children’s books by Tom Blofeld and features treehouses, zip wires and magical woodland trails. 

 

Image credit: Andrew Banner / Unsplash