Vote for your favourite caravan in the Caravan Times Readers Poll 2010

Posted by

by Marcus Dubois

As 2010 draws to a close, all of us at Caravan Times have found ourselves reflecting on a remarkable year. We offer our thanks to the caravan manufacturers, associations, parks and small businesses who helped us become first for caravan news throughout 2010. Meanwhile our groundbreaking features and interviews helped caravanners get their voice across to the industry.

But above all this year saw our online community go from strength to strength as readers shared their opinions, posted photos and answered technical questions in our forums. We are grateful for your input, and look forward to continuing the conversation in 2011.

This year has been a vintage one for new caravan models and launches. Bailey and Swift both unveiled radical new designs while Elddis, Lunar and Coachman launched exciting updates to their most popular models. And with newcomers Roma, Autosleeper and Stealth, caravanners had more choice than ever in 2010.

Click here to cast your vote in the Caravan Times Reader’s Poll 2010

Why your opinions matter

There are a number of caravan awards in existence decided by journalists and the industry. Yet Caravan Times has always been different. As an independent online magazine with a vibrant community, we always value your input.

And so we’ve launched the first Caravan Times Reader’s Poll, where owners can vote for the very best offerings for caravanners in 2010.

How do I vote?

Which caravan do you think broke new ground in 2010? Were you impressed by a particular feature on a new model? Which dealership do you think deserves the title of Dealer of the Year?

Click here to cast your vote in our forum poll. All voting is open, but in some categories we’ve shortlisted some of our favourites to help you get started.

Not yet registered with Caravan Times? Membership is always free and gives you access to our online community with forums, videos and caravan groups.

Winners will be announced at the beginning of January 2011 – thank you for your support.

Volkswagen confirms plans for new Microbus Concept

Posted by

by Holly Tribe

The classic VW campervan could be set to make a comeback as Volkswagen design chiefs give the go-ahead for a new generation of motorhome.

Back in 2001, VW built a prototype of the ‘Microbus Concept’, a new campervan based on the original Type 2 generation. But despite widespread approval from the motoring press, mass-production of the van was mothballed, and eventually scrapped in 2005 with the company citing ‘unfeasible costs’ as the reason.

But now, after years of waiting, the Microbus Concept is getting a reprieve. At the LA Auto Show held at the end of November, VW’s Chief Designer, Klaus Bischoff, told motoring magazine Autoexpress: “I would not be doing my job at Volkswagen properly if I was not thinking of bringing back the Camper.”

He explained the final design is still being considered and “the key question is ‘what sort of car should we build?'”

“It could be a traditional MPV, with a conventional interior, or we could be much bolder, designing a more flexible, versatile machine – perhaps one that is closer in spirit to the original model. It is not yet decided,” he added.
The Chief Designer’s comments were later verified by Volkswagen: “Klaus Bischoff confirms #VW is working on plans to ‘bring back’ a new version of the Microbus! Interested?”, the firm published on their official twitter feed.

Although the final design is still far from finished, a sketch (pictured) makes a rough estimation of what the new Microbus might look like. It depicts a simplified version of the 2001 concept with the same retro look but with pared down features aimed at keeping costs down.

The Original Type 2

The original campervans were created by German automaker Volkswagen in May 1950. Production of the first generation marque stopped with the 1967 model year, and the iconic T2 left our shores for good in 1979, but these iconic motorhomes have since developed a cult following around the globe.

Details of a release date have not yet been confirmed, but speculators estimate it could take anything between two to four years to reach the marketplace.

Coachman Amara 655/6: The ultimate family touring caravan?

Posted by

by Holly Tribe

The Coachman Caravans portfolio has undergone some major revisions this year. The line-up for the Laser and VIP ranges has been reshuffled with the addition of a couple of new models abd the Pastiche series has been refreshed with a brand new upholstery scheme.

But the real headline grabber is the rebuilt Coachman Amara marque. As more people are opting to take holidays closer to home, Coachman have modified their designs in a bid to appeal to the burgeoning family market. The range has been completely overhauled inside and out and all nine models now sport an extra 5cm of headroom.

Coachman may have struck gold with the addition of a new family friendly 6 berth model, the Amara 655/6. The twin axle model features twin dinettes to the front and rear with full single length lounge seats and bunks rising above the rear settees, a popular layout borrowed from the top end Laser range.

There’s a separate shower cubicle in the offside washroom and a decent sized and well equipped kitchen, including a microwave housed in its own dedicated unit.

Coachman has made the sensible decision to introduce a decent sized family van at a lower price point, with models starting at £17,995. With a hefty MTPLM of 1860kg, it will need a substantial towcar but the all important ATC stability control should keep the twin axles firmly to the road.

Click here to read more about the 2011 ranges from Coachman.

Gypsy caravan site owner wins government appeal

Posted by

by Chris Malone

A South Derbyshire gypsy caravan site could be set for an extension after the owner won a government appeal following the refusal of planning permission from the local council.

John Cawley has now been given the green light to add two static caravans, two touring caravans and two portable utility blocks to the site in Hilton’s Sutton Lane, the Burton Mail reported.

The improvements will cater for up to 14 people and have now been given the green light in spite of concerns over noise pollution.

They will effectively double the site’s capacity to 28 residents, further increasing the number of gypsy pitches in the village, with two other camps also given permission.

District council member for the Hilton area Julie Patten explained that she was far from happy with the decision.

“I was at the original inquiry and the applicants were quite clear they only required the amount of pitches they asked for, but here we are in this situation,” she said. “I did not expect this and I am absolutely dismayed.”

Ms Patten criticised the gypsy community for having “no regard for legislation or planning policy” and predicted a knock-on effect will be felt in the local area.

In other news, Caravanners applying for a trailer license in the New Year will have to complete a new on-road braking exercise.

Changes to car and trailer practical driving test

Posted by

by Holly Tribe

Caravanners applying for a trailer license in the New Year will have to complete a new on-road braking exercise.

Motorists taking the test to qualify as a car-and-trailer, lorry, bus, or coach driver are currently required to uncouple and couple a trailer, complete an off-road reverse manoeuvre, answer vehicle safety questions and perform an off-road braking test.

But from the 1st January 2011, candidates will be required to perform the braking test on-road to asses their ability to brake safely in real traffic conditions.

Road Safety Minister Mike Penning explained the changes were made to test a candidate’s skill in live traffic situations. He said: “This update to the testing process reflects advances in modern braking technology and allows us to strengthen our assessment of the candidates ability to brake safely in real traffic conditions.”

Mr Penning added that the test will remain under review so that future improvements can be made where necessary.

Since 2007, caravanners towing a car and trailer combination weighing more than 3,500kg have been required by law to take an additional trailer licence test to upgrade their driving licence to category B + E – this permits the drivers to tow a caravan or trailer up to a maximum train weight of 7,500kg.

For more information please contact the Driving Standards Agency.

Romahome announce full order book for 2011

Posted by

by Holly Tribe

As 2010 draws to a close, Cowes based motorhome manufacturer, Romahome, ends the year with its best sales record.

A successful performance at International Caravan and Motorhome 2010 saw the firm place 32 orders for vehicles. The Isle of White motorhome manufacturer is part of the Freeborn Group which operates Citroen dealerships in Southampton and Winchester. Over half of the orders placed at the week-long show came from its associated Southampton centre.

MD Brian Bailey told the Andover Advertiser: “The strong order book is good news, taking retail values of our motorhomes to around £6million for 2010.”

The firm now has a full production line and is on target to produce two hundred motorhomes by the end of the year.

Citroen base

Romahome specialises in building compact motorhomes using Citroen bases and there are currently six models to choose from. The R10 is the smallest of the bunch and compact enough to be used as a modern town car. At the other end of the scale is the Romahome R40, a four berth motorhome which can seat up to six people for travelling.

“We are approaching the New Year with a degree of confidence but we are not complacent so we will continue our programme of constant research and design upgrades,” added Mr Bailey.

Find the perfect Christmas present for caravan enthusiasts

Posted by

by Holly Tribe

If you’ve been scratching your head in recent weeks over what to buy friends or family members who are caravan-mad, help is at hand.

Finding the perfect Christmas present can mean fighting your way through crowds of shoppers on the high street or navigating a labyrinthine network of online store, which all takes time and patience.

In a bid to help with your battle with the Christmas crowds, we’ve had a good trawl through some of the darker recesses of the World Wide Web and uncovered some top presents perfect for the caravan enthusiast.

Roadmaster reversing camera kit

A great bit of kit for caravanners, this gadget from Roadmaster helps the driver see what’s behind them when reversing. No matter how big the outfit, the wide angle viewing on the camera helps avoids accidents. The camera transmits video to a monitor mounted on the visor or dashboard, and the wireless system can be easily packed away from prying eyes.

Elddis toy caravan

While toy cars are traditionally targeted at youngsters, most of us know a few full grown kids who love miniature models. And Elddis fans in particular need never be parted from their pride and joy again with this pocket sized Elddis Crusader toy caravan and Mercedes towcar combo.

  • Price: £3.99
  • Where can I buy it? Ebay

Snooper My Speed


If you’ve ever been driving and spotted a brief flash followed by that sinking feeling and a letter in the post, then you may appreciate this next item. The My Speed gadget from speed camera detector specialists Snooper displays and alerts you to speed limits. In addition the device covers Western Europe so you can avoid being caught out abroad.


Novelty caravan T-shirts

Novelty T-Shirt producers Jumper Lumps have a range of amusing logos which should raise a chuckle from fellow caravanners when you’re out and about on site. Examples of their amushing slogans include: ‘Life’s a pitch’, ‘I hate Jeremy Clarkson’, and ‘Pulling power’.

Caravan bird box

Lovers of vintage ‘vanning will be charmed by this rustic model caravan bird box. Measuring approximately 23 x 13 x 15cm with a 3cm bird entrance it’s a great way to introduce kids to world of ornithology and makes a great accessory for the garden.

Awning heater

Caravanners who like to enjoy their hobby all year round will love this portable fan heater. Ideal for heating caravan awnings (where electric hook-up is available) it folds flat for easy storage.

Camping and Caravanning Club launch classified ads service

Posted by

by Holly Tribe

One of the nations’ top clubs for touring caravans and campers has recently launched an online classified ads service.

The Camping and Caravanning Club has teamed up with advertising specialists Ten Alps Media to bring the service to market. The online provision is available to both members and non-members, however Club members will be able to place their adverts free of charge. It enables users to place adverts and search thousands of new and used caravans, motorhomes, folding campers, tents, awnings and camping accessories.

Matt Styrka, Group Sales Manager at Ten Alps Media, said: “We have worked closely with the Club to provide a user-friendly service and we are confident it will become a key resource for all campers.”

The site was re-launched earlier in 2010 and now attracts 175,000 unique visitors each month. Anyone placing a classified ad will get the option to advertise in the Clubs monthly magazine and with an annual circulation of well over 230,000, as authenticated by the Audit Bureau of Circulations, doing so will grant sellers access to a far wider audience.

Matthew Eastlake, the Club’s Marketing and Communications Director, was enthusiastic about the development and said: “It’s fantastic to be able to offer campers the opportunity to buy and sell camping units and equipment in a safe, controlled environment.”

The new classified service can be found at classifieds.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk

In other news, the Caravan Club launched a classified service earlier in the year.

Eurocamp urges Brits to visit France

Posted by

by Chris Malone

While the UK’s weather may not be very appealing to caravan and motorhome enthusiasts at the moment, one holiday park operator has suggested a trip to Europe might be a good idea.

Eurocamp runs caravan sites on the continent and urged Brits to book a break in February at its Belle Dune resort in France.

The countryside park is just one of a number of places throughout the country where holidaymakers might enjoy warmer weather.

Set in Fort Mahon Plage, Picardy, the site is located next to two lakes and looks out over a beautiful landscape of pine forests and sand dunes.

A golf course, central square, bars, restaurants, indoor pool complex and sports facilities allow families to relax away from the hustle and bustle of UK life.

The historic Valley of the Somme and a number of beautiful beaches are located nearby, allowing holidaymakers to get out and explore the area.

In other news, the Camping & Caravanning Club has launched a new service where website users can trade mobile homes and equipment online.

Extra bank holiday could delight caravanners

Posted by

by Chris Malone

Caravan and motorhome enthusiasts may be looking forward to April 2011 as they will have an extra long weekend to enjoy with their family and friends.

April 29th has been designated a public holiday to mark the wedding of Prince William and his fiancee Kate Middleton.

According to Lonely Planet, the UK is the perfect place to spend the occasion and the country is set to receive a massive tourism boost as a result.

Travel editor Tom Hall explained that London might be a particularly attractive destination for caravanners looking to get away during the bank holiday weekend.

He noted that people are likely to flock to the capital in their droves to take in what should be a “very nice atmosphere”.

“After all, it is a great national occasion; where better to mark it then among some of the world famous sites of London?” he added.

Those who wish to get out of the city and explore the countryside might also expect to experience some favourable spring weather, Mr Hall stated.

A number of caravan holiday park operators have been quick promote their sites and services appealing to hoidaymakers wishing to take advantage of the two back to back long weekends.

Haven Holiday Parks is offering a ten night break for £649 for a family of up to six at their 35 parks across the country. And Park Holidays UK have vowed to fix site prices at what is sure to be one of the busiest vacation periods next year.

Cheap European caravan holidays for 2011

Posted by

by Holly Tribe

If you’re thinking about taking your caravan to Europe in the New Year, there are big savings to be had with a recent offer run by Camping Cheques.

Customers who purchase a minimum of three Camping Cheques before 20th December 2010 will also be able to book a crossing from Dover to Dunkerque with a car and caravan and up to four passengers from £37 each way.

Caravanners pay a set rate for the cheques up front, so they know exactly how much they are paying before they arrive on site and can avoid being subjected to unstable exchange rates.

At a cost of £13.95 each, they are redeemable in 29 European countries. The price covers one nights stay at any of the 600 parks with electric hook up for two people and their car/caravan or motorhome. The offer is valid for travel throughout 2011, but some sites might not accept them during the July and August summer holiday months.

For more information on booking details and participating sites visit the Camping Cheques website .

Bailey Caravans make Unicorn permanent addition to 2011 Alu-Tech line up

Posted by

by Marcus Dubois

Bailey Caravans has revealed it will be making its latest range of caravans a permanent addition to the product portfolio.

The Bailey Unicorn entered the market this autumn as a limited edition model – and the first luxury caravan from the Bristol manufacturers. However Bailey smashed its previous sales records at the NEC in October at International Caravan and Motorhome Show, with the Unicorn accounting for three-quarters of total business written. As a result of this overwhelming enthusiasm for the Unicorn, the firm took the decision to make it a permanent addition to the Alu-Tech caravan lineup.

The signs were visible in September when Bailey introduced two new additional layouts to the Unicorn range. The Unicorn Madrid was a four-berth, twin dinette layout with a rear end washroom, while the Almeria featured a fix bed and compact rear washroom alongside a spacious living area. Both have proved to be as popular with the public as the original Unicorn models.

Bailey recently said how it was “delighted that the caravan buying public has reacted so positively” to the new range. Since it was launced in September this year, the Unicorn has helped Bailey write £39 million worth of retail orders, making this the most successful single product launched in the company’s sixty-year history.

Recent accolades from the caravan world include winning the Caravan Industry Magazine “Tourer Of The Year” title for the Unicorn Seville, as well as the Go Caravan Magazine “Caravan Of The Year” for 2011.

Following this success Bailey will undoubtedly be looking to the future and the two major caravan shows of 2011. Caravan Times understands that the firm will be launching an entry-level Alu-Tech model at the NEC in February. And while no official name has been announced for the affordable caravan, rumours are circulating in forums that it could be named the Bailey Phoenix.

To have your say on the Bailey Unicorn and watch our video footage please click here.