How does the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill affect caravanners?

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The third reading of the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill passed through the House of Commons earlier this month with a majority of 100. While a lot of attention has been given to the impact it will have on protests if it makes it through the House of Lords, the bill is far-reaching and could have serious consequences for caravanners.

Owners of caravans, motorhomes and campervans could have their leisure vehicles seized by police simply for parking in places without the landowner’s permission. This includes farmland, but also car parks and laybys, and while it’s only likely to be a problem if the police receive a complaint, the law will not be on the caravanner’s side.

While wild camping in Scotland is permitted, overnight parking in a leisure vehicle without consent is already illegal in England and Wales. When enforced, perpetrators are guilty of the civil offence of trespass, but the new bill would mean tougher punishments.

Caravanners found trespassing could have their vehicles seized, face a fine of up to £2,500 or be given a prison sentence if they don’t move when asked. This could have serious consequences for the 1.15 million Brits that own a leisure vehicle, especially as demand for caravan site pitches is higher than ever this summer.

Nick Rosen, author of How to Live Off Grid, said: “The bill will have a chilling effect on sales and rentals of campervans, of which there are over a million in the UK already. It has been an inalienable right in the UK to take off in a campervan, and park down a quiet lane or on the edge of a farmer’s field. Now this freedom is being chipped away under the guise of saving us from protest camps.”

He is campaigning to have amendments added to the bill before it goes through the House of Lords to prevent wild camping becoming a criminal offence. His petition to withdraw the power to seize vehicles used as mobile homes already has more than 44,000 signatures.

Mr Rosen added: “There are upwards of 60,000 people living off-grid in mobile homes of various sorts in the UK. Some are taking a break from their normal life, while others live this way permanently.

“Many people don’t realise that the van-dwelling way of life is under direct threat from the bill, at a time when it has never been more popular and necessary. Action is needed urgently to raise awareness and stop this unintended consequence of the crackdown on protesters.”

While many wild campers cause no nuisance and leave no trace, the potential implications of the new laws will likely put many people off. The idea that owning a leisure vehicle represents the freedom to go away at short notice and wherever the mood takes you clashes with the reality of legislation in England and Wales.

 

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Sharon Carr

New service connects caravanners with landowners for overnight stays

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A new concept has been launched in Northumberland to connect caravanners with private landowners for wild camping experiences.

Wild With Consent offers exclusive overnight stays in some of the most beautiful remote spots in the north-east of England.

Only permitting one caravan in each location at a time, Wild With Consent represents an opportunity to get off the beaten track and reconnect with nature.

Grace Fell, founder of Wild With Consent, spent her childhood enjoying campervan holidays, which inspired the concept.

She said: “Every holiday was spent in our trusty Iveco campervan and we travelled all over the place. But Scotland and its ‘right to roam’ really captured my imagination.

“Being able to park right next to the sea or shore of a loch in complete isolation was a very special and liberating experience. South of the border, it is illegal to park anywhere other than a campsite, which in my mind, completely defeats the point of having a campervan!”

The locations offered by Wild With Consent have been handpicked to offer something truly special with unparalleled access to nature.

Among the options is a chance to stay at Elwick with views across the sea to Holy Island, which is crowned with the iconic Lindisfarne Castle.

Parked up less than 100 metres from the nature reserve, caravanners who listen carefully will be able to hear the sounds of seals and oyster catchers during their stay.

Locations featured by Wild With Consent are split into three categories – standard, premium and super premium – and are charged at £25, £50 and £100 respectively.

An introductory offer is currently available with 50 per cent off at selected locations. After making a booking, caravanners are sent an exact point to pitch up via What3Words.

Nick’s News – The show must go on, plus Niesmann+Bischoff iSmove 7.3F

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Nick HardingNick’s News – Nick Harding is an expert in all things motorhomes, caravans and camping. Each week, Nick explores products, locations, holiday ideas and essential community information on our behalf – It’s a Hard-ing Life for Nick, but here is what he found this week.

My week

Well, the Erwin Hymer Group UK (that’s Elddis, Compass, Buccaneer and Xplore) 2022 preview last week was quite interesting… but there’s a mid-August embargo on any new model news. What I can tell you, though, is there’s been significant investment by its Erwin Hymer Group parent company – and that’s great news in terms of confidence in its UK operation, not least for job security for its workforce. 

This week’s trip out is to Coachman to see its caravans for the season ahead, but there’s likely to be a similar embargo. 

In the news

The show goes on – in Germany

Our own industry showcase event, originally scheduled for October at Birmingham’s NEC, may have been postponed, but there is still a Europe-wide event, of sorts.

The organisers of Caravan Salon, Europe’s largest motorhome and caravan show, say they’re going ahead with a “hybrid” offer at its Dusseldorf, Germany venue – combining a live event with virtual experiences.

There will also be a matchmaking tool which enables potential buyers to introduce themselves to manufacturers and retailers, with a view to ending up with an actual meeting at the show itself. 

That’s if we’re allowed to go to Germany by that point, of course. Caravan Salon is scheduled to run from August 28th to September 5th.  

Working from (motor)home?

A new twist on the theme of working from home has been announced by German manufacturer Sunlight, part of the Erwin Hymer Group. 

Its Home Office on Wheels project means you really can take your work with you wherever you go. OK, some will love that idea, others may not be quite so keen…

Sunlight calls it digital nomadism. Very much a concept at this stage – and, of course, quite a few folk have tried similar things in the past, I – for one – am definitely interested. 

Sunlight’s project sees the fitting of a modular system comprising a folding desktop, complete with computer monitor, plus suitable storage space, and more.

If you’re going to have an office on wheels, I have to say the seat (especially) and desk must be designed for such uses, for starters. Add in full connectivity and, er, you’re away!

Motorhome for me

Niesmann+Bischoff iSmove 7.3F – top of the class

This is a serious motorhome. But we’re also talking serious money. If the £91,500 starting price isn’t enough to make your eyes water, the optional extras listings certainly will (hint: expect to end up paying at least £110,000). The iSmove 7.3F is a 7m-long A-class from Germany’s Niesmann + Bischoff and it really is the business, in all senses. This is a manufacturer that doesn’t do cheap and, with the iSmove, definitely tries to do it differently.

It’s also very exclusive. Still, if you’re going to go to all the effort of specifying exactly what you want, you’ll surely find any wait is more than worthwhile.

OK, it all sounds straightforward enough – a rear island bed floorplan on Fiat Ducato/Al-Ko chassis running gear, but then you can easily get carried away with the bespoke nature of the N+B way of making its motorhomes. 

What more can I say? Go and see for yourselves, when you can. 

Three good: Build quality, style/presence

Two bad: Phew it’s pricey, so are the options

Perfect for: Grand touring

Also consider: Carthago Chic e-line I

Gadget envy 

Time to break out the barbie?

Fancy a new barbecue? There’s plenty to choose from. I really like the look of the little new Attitude model from Campingaz. Truly portable, the 2go CV uses small gas canisters but nevertheless has a cast-iron cooking area that reaches temperatures up to 250 degrees C and reckons it’s large enough to cater for up to six people. 

Not exactly a barbecue, but if you really do want to create some gadget envy, how about the new FirePit from BioLite. It’s not cheap, but it’s a portable unit that cooks using charcoal or wood as its fuel. It also replicates a campfire and comes complete with a fan and flames that can be adjusted via an app. Neat, eh? 

Almost exactly midway in price between the above two (it’s around the £150 mark) is the Primus Kamoto OpenFire Pit. Again, it’s an open fire design but burns charcoal or logs and is equally adept at barbecuing. 

Searches up 81% for motorhomes and 62% for caravans

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It hasn’t escaped many people’s notice that there’s a staycation boom upon us and roadtripping is at the top of plenty of holidaymakers’ wishlists. In fact, demand for motorhomes is up 81 per cent and caravans 62 per cent compared to two years ago.

That’s according to Lexham Insurance, which has been analysing Google Trends data. The specialist broker has launched a dedicated motorhome insurance scheme for 2021 to cover new, used and self-built motorhomes and it’s designed to address the specific needs of leisure vehicle owners.

Andy Goodson, sales and marketing director at Lexham Insurance, told CaravanTimes: “2021 is definitely the year of the staycation, with more people than ever desperate for a holiday after the last year, but unable to go abroad.

“That might seem a little dissatisfying to some, but there’s no reason to be disheartened, a road trip is something that not many have experienced and it’s a breath of fresh air for those who’ve been looking for some adventure this past year.”

He highlighted the fact that hotels and B&Bs have a limited capacity and are already filling up. In particularly popular areas there’s simply not enough provision in terms of this type of accommodation to meet demand, but caravans and motorhomes will help to plug this gap.

Mr Goodson added: “There’s no better feeling than getting out on the road – there are some fantastic destinations in the UK like the Lake District, the Cotswolds, or even the Scottish Highlands – this country has an absolute wealth of picturesque tourist spots to travel to.

“Not only that, but our local businesses have taken a beating over the last twelve months – so keeping your money in the UK will help relieve the burden many are feeling, especially in the hospitality sector – who’ve been hit hard by the pandemic.”

Instead of being a last resort, caravans and motorhomes represent a great way to travel and the standards of accommodation can be incredibly high. The stereotypical view of leisure vehicles from the past is gone and there are now options available to suit all levels of luxury required.

Staff at Lexham Insurance have revealed they’re often told that touring the UK by caravan is on many people’s bucket lists. While uncertainty around green and amber list countries continues, this summer seems to be a good opportunity to do it.

Mr Goodson summarised: “It’s a no-brainer to get to see the best the UK has to offer – leave the hotels behind you and take your family in a campervan or motorhome this year, before they all sell up!”

 

 

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Kojiro Inui

Caravan Guard turning heads during awards season

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Specialist insurer Caravan Guard has been shortlisted as a finalist in the UK Customer Satisfaction Awards 2021.

It reflects the work carried out by the Halifax-based firm to implement a new framework around customer feedback.

The changes are improving standards for what is already a high level of customer service, ensuring everyone gets the best assistance when it’s required.

Ryan Wilby, managing director at Caravan Guard, said: “It’s a great honour to be nominated as finalists in the UK’s most prestigious customer service awards.

“This shortlisting is testament to the fact that we aim to continually push the bar ever higher when it comes to delivering brilliant customer experiences and market leading cover for our customers.”

It’s not the only award where Caravan Guard has been getting attention recently, as the insurer took gold as What Motorhome magazine’s Insurance Provider of the Year 2021.

The judges noted that as well as a highly competitive price, Caravan Guard was comprehensive in what’s included, with UK breakdown cover as standard.

It beat 19 other providers to the top spot, as insurers that specialise in cover for leisure vehicles were pitted against each other over features, benefits and cost of premiums.

Neil Menzies, director of Caravan Guard, said he was delighted the company’s cover had been recognised as market-leading.

He added that this comes at a time when demand for caravan and motorhome insurance is at an all-time high, as the lifestyle welcomes many newcomers.

Caravan Guard has more than 30 years of experience in the industry and over 110,000 customers.

It insures everything from luxury motorhomes and static caravans to folding campers and trailer tents, meaning it can cover most holidaymakers’ setups.

Joining one of the UK’s recognised caravan clubs earns owners a ten per cent discount on any Caravan Guard premium.

World’s first totally renewable lithium-ion battery is perfect for touring

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The first reusable, repairable and fully recyclable lithium-ion battery has been launched and it’s compatible with touring in a caravan, motorhome or campervan.

Award-winning clean technology company Aceleron has developed a unique compression-technology method to ensure each individual element of the battery can be accessed either to repair, replace or upgrade.

This is not only better for the environment, but allows users to keep costs down while being reassured the product will have a long lifespan.

The Essential battery comes in a variety of voltages, providing uninterrupted, reliable power, which is important when pitching up in your motorhome.

Carlton Cummins, chief technical officer and co-founder of Aceleron, told CaravanTimes: “Touring with the Essential battery on board means you get to go further and do more, and experience complete peace of mind while you do it.

“The Essential is a lightweight, easy to carry and versatile lithium-ion battery that can be installed in three different positions, to replace any group-31 battery.

“It will provide enough long-lasting, reliable power for any appliance in your motorhome, caravan or campervan – from the TV, hairdryer and microwave to your coffee machine or fridge freezer.

“Should you need even more power, it’s also easy to connect extra Essential batteries in series or parallel.”

Aceleron boasts that the Essential is half the weight of a traditional battery and has been given an ergonomic design to make it look sleek, as well as being portable.

Offering up to four times the cycle life and three times more continuous power than a lead-acid battery, the Essential sounds like it ticks all the boxes.

As many caravanners work to reduce their impact on the environment, the eco benefits of the battery will certainly be a plus.

Treating batteries as disposable makes them a drain on resources, so the renewable element will be a welcome addition to the market.

Carlton Cummins and Dr Amrit Chandan of Aceleron

Mr Cummins added: “The really unique thing about the Essential is that it’s the world’s most sustainable battery. All components from the protection electronics to the cells can be replaced for repair, upgrade or recycling.

“It means your battery’s performance lasts a lifetime and you also get to protect the planet – and all those beautiful views you’re travelling to see.”

As the UK pushes towards the government’s target of reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050, technologies such as the Essential will need to be more widely adopted.

It fits in with the new right to repair rules, which came in last week, making manufacturers of electrical appliances responsible for ensuring spare parts are available to prevent products from becoming obsolete.

Aceleron has always had sustainability in mind, as the company was started when its founders took apart and tested hundreds of battery packs, realising they aren’t designed to be maintained.

They hope to empower communities around the world with greater access to energy storage solutions that don’t result in tonnes of unnecessary battery waste.

Nick’s News – NEC October show cancelled, the Knaus Deseo caravan and clean air solutions

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Nick HardingNick’s News – Nick Harding is an expert in all things motorhomes, caravans and camping. Each week, Nick explores products, locations, holiday ideas and essential community information on our behalf – It’s a Hard-ing Life for Nick, but here is what he found this week.

My week

Things are hotting up across the leisure vehicle sector. I’m off to see what’s new from Elddis/Erwin Hymer Group this week, then looking in at the latest launches from Adria and Coachman over the next two weeks. With news that Bailey is to unveil its next-generation Unicorn caravans, I’m getting the feeling things really are beginning to return to some kind of normality.

In the news

No show for the NEC in October

In a funny way, I’d like to congratulate our National Caravan Council for taking the decision to put off October’s Motorhome and Caravan Show. Against a background of high interest in touring caravans and motorhomes and, frankly, the opportunity to sell even more product, the UK industry’s trade body has put the welfare of people ahead of commercial interests.

Instead, efforts will focus on the subsequent national showcase, the Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show next February at the same venue – Birmingham’s NEC.

It’s a dreadful place, the NEC. I know I’m not the only one to come away from events there having gathered up a cold, sore throat or worse in the past. The good news is, it’s started using Enhanced Venue Sanitisation – more cleaning, more warning signs, more sanitisers and staffed toilets. I’m sure we can wait a bit longer and I look forward to caching up next February.

Want to work on a campsite? Join the Club…

I see the Caravan and Motorhome Club is looking to recruit people to come and work on its site network. It can be very rewarding, but you should be warned, it’s also no picnic. I don’t speak from direct experience, but have certainly heard enough tales of hard graft.

As consumers, we do tend to get sucked into the idea of sitting on a lawnmower, cutting the grass and just chatting to campers while the sun shines… perhaps not caring to think about the myriad of responsibilities carried out by site staff.

By far the biggest majority of folk using campsites are decent, but it only takes the odd one to spoil things for others, though. Frankly, I do think there’s a sitcom waiting to be written there! Who knows, it could even be based on someone’s experience as a rookie assistant manager.

Caravan crush

Knaus Deseo – out of the ordinary

It’s no concept caravan this, I was there when the Deseo was first unveiled by Germany’s Knaus, back in the mid-2000s, and it still bucks plenty of trends today. Its short, boxy, twin axle, minimal-windows design still sets it out from the rest. As does its full-size tailgate at the back – ideal for taking on heavy loads of anything up to motorbikes.

It’s all rather more practical than you might expect, too, with everything from its drop-down double bed to a proper bench toilet. Proper? Yes, I do consider these older Thetford toilets preferable to swivel-bowl variants, for one key reason – hygiene. They’re easier to keep clean because you don’t have to – literally – grub around the back of them. Just a thought, but I think I’ll leave it there.

Three good: Build quality, at least 300kg payload and it’s different
Two bad: Price, plus you’ll want to add options
Perfect for… Carrying kit, as well as offering accommodation for four
Also consider: Trip Buddy Anywhere

Gadget envyThe MaxxFan with remote control

Clean air – let’s act

In current times, ensuring a good supply of fresh, clean air means more than ever before. So, what can you do to make sure you’re getting the right stuff when you’re out and about in your caravan or motorhome? You could add an air conditioner, of course, but prices here do tend to run into the low thousands.

So, what are the alternatives? Well, opening windows and vents wherever and whenever possible is a great start. It might even be enough to make you decide you don’t need to do anything else.

Or you might decide you want a 12V fan fitting that can be used as an extractor. If so, you could ask your local dealer to fit a Thule Omnivent, or the Fiamma equivalent, called the TurboVent.

There’s also the MaxxFan, which is a rather interesting looking item that’s recently been introduced to the UK by specialist leisure vehicle accessories supplier and fitter, RoadPro. For easy fitting, it can actually take the place of a 400mm x 400mm rooflight and even comes with a remote control.

Thieves now target caravans as much as supercars

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Top-of-the-range caravans, motorhomes and campervans are now being targeted by thieves as much as high-end luxury cars.

That is according to GPS vehicle tracker specialist Trackershop, which says the trend is being driven by overwhelming demand for leisure vehicles and the relative ease with which they can be stolen.

Caravanners are therefore being warned to adopt extra security measures to ensure they don’t become the victim of crime and see their staycation plans ruined.

Identity markings are easily removed from caravans, which means the majority of those that are taken are never recovered.

Trackershop noted that while increased search volumes have been seen for caravans for sale, queries for caravan trackers have remained the same.

Vehicles with a tracking device fitted have a 95 per cent recovery rate and they’re often a requirement of many insurance companies.

Shaun Carse, managing director at Trackershop, said: “With this in mind it is concerning that caravan and motorhome owners don’t seem to be carrying out due diligence when it comes to securing their vehicle.

“Recent research discovered that just 13 per cent of motorhomes and six per cent of campervans have trackers installed, whilst 54 per cent and 45 per cent of these vehicles respectively don’t have alarms.”

There are two main types of tracker available – those that are hard-wired into leisure vehicle’s electrics and battery-operated options that can be hidden in unexpected places so thieves can’t find them.

As well as using a tracker, caravanners can increase their chances of having a stolen vehicle returned to them by having the VIN (vehicle identification number) etched on all the windows and keeping a record of the Central Registration & Identification Scheme (CRiS) number.

Ways to keep your caravan, motorhome or campervan safe from thieves include:

  • Installing a tracker
  • Fitting an alarm system
  • Investing in CCTV on your driveway
  • Installing security lighting
  • Purchase a wheel lock
  • Buy a hitch lock

 

 

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Saad Chaudhry

Tyre Runner answers all your caravan and motorhome tyre questions

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A tyre comparison site has published a guide to help answer any questions caravan and motorhome enthusiasts have about tyres for their leisure vehicle. Tyre Runner covers everything from the differences to car tyres through to how long they should last.

It could prove to be a useful resource for anyone new to the lifestyle or those looking to purchase second-hand tyres with confidence. There’s also advice on maintenance after buying tyres too.

Bryan MacMillan, founder of Tyre Runner, told CaravanTimes: “We’ve seen a noticeable increase in 2021 in the amount of caravan and motorhome owners getting in touch with Tyre Runner looking for advice on the best tyres to purchase for their home away from home – car tyres, van tyres, commercial tyres, there are far too many options and many a misunderstanding of the differences between them!

“Despite not being used that often, or for very many miles in their lifetime, caravan and motorhome tyres are actually more susceptible to premature weather ageing than perhaps the average vehicle.”

He went on to explain that this is usually caused by motorhomes being stationary in all weathers, which is particularly likely to have occurred with the country having been in lockdown. This can result in tyre flat spots, cracking and bulges on the side walls, which increases the chances of having a blowout.

Mr MacMillian said: “That’s why Tyre Runner recommends replacing caravan tyres every five years no matter how many miles they have done. In the case of a caravan, when not in use, Tyre Runner recommends having tyres professionally removed and stored to prolong life – there is also a little upside for security as well.

“We also advise potential new owners to check the DOT date code on the side of the tyres of any second-hand motorhome they are considering for purchase. And of course, always check your tyre pressures before setting off on a trip – it will save a fortune on fuel and make sure the tyre offers optimal grip on the road.”

Tyre Runner’s ultimate guide to caravan and motorhome tyres offers more top tips like these to ensure leisure vehicle owners enjoy their trips away safely. It also talks readers through the various things to consider when trying to get the most out of their tyres.

It comes as Tyre Runner launches a new comparison tool to let owners find the best deals from retailers, wholesalers and tyre manufacturers. Being impartial allows novices to obtain the independent advice they need to make an informed purchase.

Users can search for tyres near them and by size or enter their caravan or motorhome registration number to find out what they require. The best deals from big names and small independent companies will then be presented to them in an easy to compare format.

 

 

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Enis Yavuz

40% of Brits are planning to staycation this year

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A whopping 40 per cent of the British population are planning on taking a holiday in the UK this year, according to TentBox.

The roof tent company says that equates to 26.7 million people all taking advantage of beautiful destinations in the UK, as travel abroad remains uncertain.

Of that number, more than half are planning to go camping, which is seen as an affordable and environmentally-friendly way to enjoy a staycation.

Ollie Shurville, co-founder of TentBox, said: “The research findings confirm our predictions that this summer is going to be a bumper year for UK-based camping trips, and gives us tangible data on the sheer scale of the staycation boom.

“Camping with a TentBox on the roof of your car is a smarter and more comfortable way to sleep outdoors, whilst also increasing the sense of fun and freedom camping can offer.”

Roof tents represent a good compromise between traditional camping and enjoying a motorhome break.

They can be installed on the roof bars of any vehicle and allow campers to sleep on a built-in memory foam mattress away from the ground.

Within 30 seconds of getting parked in a pitch, you can turn your car into a basic campervan set-up using a TentBox.

They’re waterproof and midge-proof, which are both vital for trips during the UK summertime, and the company claims they can withstand winds of up to 35 miles per hour.

If you’re wondering how to climb down from your TentBox, perhaps in the middle of the night when nature calls, there’s an in-built ladder.

TentBox is experiencing high demand for its roof tents due to the increased popularity of camping, but is accepting pre-orders on new stock due to arrive in July.

Nick’s News – The problem with popular routes, Niesmann + Bischoff and an electric campervan

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Nick HardingNick’s News – Nick Harding is an expert in all things motorhomes, caravans and camping. Each week, Nick explores products, locations, holiday ideas and essential community information on our behalf – It’s a Hard-ing Life for Nick, but here is what he found this week.

My week

Can we holiday, or can’t we? As I write, things are still a bit in the balance. With foreign holidays all but banned for those who are happier sticking by the rules, parts of the UK are busy booking up fast. And I’m simply not one for the crowds.

I’m still planning a trip to Scotland in August and I wondered if anyone could give me any tips on experiences of overnighting in a Scottish forest? I’ve recently discovered this website and love the concept of offering just the one night at a time for leisure vehicle users who might be simply passing through.

In the news

North coast, no thanks!

North Coast 500 (NC500), Wild Atlantic Way, Ring of Kerry, Glasgow to Inverness… these are the UK’s favourite road trips, according to an organisation called Zutobi.

I’m afraid that sets alarm bells ringing as far as I’m concerned. All it suggests is that these roads and campsites are going to be chokka this summer – and are probably best avoided. If you’ve decided to take in any of these areas, good luck to you.

I’ve still yet to do the NC500, which follows the coast around the top of Scotland, but I’m quite happy to keep it on the bucket list for when things are quieter.

Dream the dream with your very own Niesmann + Bischoff

German dream machine manufacturer Niesmann + Bischoff has announced an online configurator for potential purchasers of its somewhat awesome motorhomes.

I couldn’t resist a play and started with an iSmove 7.3F, which is ‘modestly’ priced from £91,500, but then I added a customised paint finish (over £8,000, including trimmings), 18in alloy wheels (£2,374) and leather upholstery (over £2,000).

Of course, I didn’t stop there and had to have the Premium Kitchen Pack (£1,738), all manner of other options packs (ranging from £2,000 to £5,000), engine and automatic transmission upgrades (£5,000 or so), and then ‘details’ like Aguti cab seats (£678), second garage door (£830), sliding table (£252), oh and plenty more.

Well, you can guess what happened… I was fast approaching £130,000, but still, it’s fun to dream. Go on, I dare you to have a go yourself.

Motorhome for me? LEVC Camper on the beach

LEVC e-Camper – it’s all-electric

The world’s first electrically-powered campervan? Not quite*, but it looks like a damn good attempt. I’m talking about LEVC’s (London Electric Vehicle Company) e-Camper. It’s based on the VN5 van and yes, in case you’re wondering, its roots go back to being a taxi.

It’s all about the number of miles you can go between charges that’s critical for electric engines. Thanks to LEVC’s e-City range extender technology, e-Camper can do anything up to 300 miles.

The kitchen’s electric too, which means there’s no need for any gas system. The campervan conversion work has been carried out initially with help from Wellhouse Leisure, but the plan is for LEVC to go into full production on its own.

The company says it’s ready to take orders here in the UK, with deliveries possibly as soon as the last quarter of this year. But it seems Europe is a step ahead – early left-hand drive models are already being snapped up by dealers in Germany.

*It’s not the world’s first electric campervan. That honour goes to Hillside Leisure, which unveiled its Dalbury E micro camper based on Nissan’s e-NV200 (the electric-powered version of its NV200), back in 2014. The latest versions of the e-NV200 have a range of up to 174miles.

Three good: All-electric, including the kitchen and no VED (road tax)
Two bad: Initial cost and the element of the unknown
Perfect for… the environment!
Consider also: Waiting for more electric campers coming our way

Gadget envyThe Vango Sizzle

Electric cookers

If the future is electric for leisure vehicles, then what about the cookers we use in conjunction with the lifestyle? On-board electric hobs are yet to make it, although you might be lucky enough to have a gas hob with single electric hotplate. But, you can add to what you’ve got.

The news that gas barbecue specialist Cadac has added an electric model to its line-up is a possible pointer to the future. It’s the E Braai, which roughly translates as barbecue in its native South Africa.

I’ve always fancied an induction hob too. I know you have to have the right pans (easy) and the hob itself has to be exactly level in use or things can slide (trickier), but the cool-to-the-touch, instant efficient heat concept seems perfect for a leisure vehicle. Anyway, check out the Vango Sizzle – available as a single or double hob.

For a more basic electric addition to your existing facilities, how about something like the Whitby from Outwell? It’s a skillet with removable glass lid, ideal for frying or roasting.

TV filming locations to explore on your caravan staycation

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Forget Hollywood, it’s all about the TV filming locations here in the UK, which are easily visited on your caravan holiday this summer.

As part of its Sunny Staycations campaign, Uswitch has created a list of destinations to explore if you’re a fan of some of the biggest TV shows of the last few years.

Many of the locations are situated close to caravan parks, enabling you to easily incorporate them into a trip away with your leisure vehicle.

Kynance Cove – Poldark

Cornwall is a popular destination for caravanners, but fans of Poldark will have an extra reason to visit, as some of the show’s key scenes were filmed with the white sand and blue sea background of Kynance Cove.

Arley Hall – Peaky Blinders

Step inside the library at Arley Hall in Cheshire and you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d stumbled across a gang leader’s study at the start of the 20th century. That’s because the manor doubles up as Tommy Shelby’s Arrow House in Peaky Blinders.

Belvoir Castle – The Crown

While a number of castles across the UK were used in the filming of The Crown, it was the interior of Belvoir Castle that doubled up as the most famous royal residence, Windsor Castle. Book a visit to take in the sumptuous decor and regal vibe.

County Wicklow – Vikings

Take your caravan over to the east of Ireland to experience the life of a Viking among the fairytale forests and tranquil lakes. County Wicklow’s scenery is just as dramatic as the action played out in the show.

Highclere Castle – Downton Abbey

Want to see the bedroom where Lord and Lady Grantham sleep in Downton Abbey? It’s located at Highclere Castle in Hampshire and decorated in the most elegant style by Lady Carnarvon, who calls the impressive property home.

 

 

Photo credit: uSwitch