Motoring etiquette tips for your next touring adventure

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

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

Express gratitude

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

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

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

Be considerate when fuelling up

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

Responsible horn usage

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

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

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

Appropriate music volume 

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

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

Maintain optimal speed

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

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

Avoid misleading gestures

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

 

Image credit: Tim Foster / Unsplash

The strange and wonderful sights of caravanning

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

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

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

 

Parking panics

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

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

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

 

Crazy caravans

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

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

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

 

Tent tripping

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

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

 

The ‘Catavan’

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

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

 

Canine capers

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

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

 

Goldilocks and the three campers

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

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

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

Photo credit: Matheus Bertelli / Pexels

5 tips for buying your next leisure vehicle

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

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

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

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

 

What do you need?

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

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

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

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

 

Which layout?

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

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

 

UK or continental design?

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

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

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

 

Have you done your research?

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

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

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

 

What’s the seller’s motivation?

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

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

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

Image credit: Julia Volk / Pexels

Dream Destinations: Sardinia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Image credit: Léonard Cotte / Unsplash

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

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

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

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

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

 

Where are pups most welcomed?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read on for the full top ten list.

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

 

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

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

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

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

Photo credit: Pajor Pawel / Shutterstock

Essential safety items you should have when driving with your dog

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

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

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

Dog seatbelt

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

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

Harness

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

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

Dog carrier

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

Back seat barrier

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

Photo credit: freestocks.org / Pexels

Changes to permit law for caravans and motorhomes in Jersey

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Image credit: Nick Fewings / Unsplash

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