Travel scams to be aware of on your next touring holiday

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Whether you’re embarking on a winter road trip in a caravan or motorhome or planning your next summer touring adventure overseas, it’s important to be aware of common scams and criminal activities that target tourists. There’s nothing worse than finding yourself out of pocket because someone has taken advantage of you. 

Taxi scams

If you’re heading to the continent on your next touring trip you may be relying on taxis to get to and from the airport if you’re renting a caravan or motorhome from elsewhere. Often, airport taxis are unregulated, which leads to high rates. Be sure to research licensed taxi firms and ask the driver what the approximate fare will be before hopping in. 

Phoney PCRs

Although many countries, including the UK, have scrapped this rule, some still require travellers to show a negative COVID test before permitting them entry. There are many instances of scammers being caught selling holidaymakers fake PCR tests and “fit to fly” certificates, so it’s important to verify that the COVID test and documentation come from a reputable source. If you’re travelling somewhere from the UK, you can buy a PCR test from most pharmacies and use the NHS app to prove your results. 

Public wi-fi

If you’re heading off the beaten track in your caravan or motorhome, you may need to rely on public wi-fi if you’re unable to access the internet through your mobile network provider. It’s important to be aware that a shared network is not as secure as the private one you may use at home, so be extra careful when sharing sensitive information like your bank card details. Another option to ensure your safety online is to use a VPN, which prevents unauthenticated third-party companies from accessing your personal data. 

Pickpockets

This is the oldest scam in the book. In the past, the art of pickpocketing was relatively straightforward, however, scammers have become increasingly creative in their stealing endeavours. Today, it’s common for pickpockets to take things from right under their victim’s nose while using accomplices to keep them distracted. If your next tour involves a stop in a big city like London or Paris it’s important to keep your wits about you and your belongings close in crowded open spaces or on public transport. 

Activities and excursions 

Another common way scammers take advantage of tourists is through activities and excursions. Particularly in places with a variety of landmarks and tourist attractions to visit, illegitimate companies offer outings without having the correct health and safety precautions in place to keep their customers safe. It’s a good idea to book activities and excursions through an official travel agency or companies with good reputations. Be sure to check reviews before handing over any money.

 

Image credit: Jacek Dylag / Unsplash

The rise and fall of the #vanlifers

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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.

Over the last five years, social media platforms have been flooded with people telling stories of how they quit their jobs, converted a van into an Instagram-worthy photo vector and attempted to tour the world in their newly created, poorly tested leisure vehicle.

For the seasoned traveller, caravanner or motorhomer, that might seem inspirational. However, it’s actually not helping our industry at all. Many of these people create large followings and fame, before giving #vanlife up because their vehicle breaks, they lose money or simply realise it’s just not their cup of tea.

These influencers inspire plenty of viewers who potentially don’t have the money, time and, most importantly, the expertise to convert their own van. When done by a pro, it’s an excellent idea. But there are so many poorly fitted, half-finished project conversions out there – it’s just a crime!

#Vanlife is still a great idea

So, what are things to really think about if you’re interested in joining #vanlife? Firstly, try before you buy. We’re talking about a massive change in lifestyle here, so get the feel of a touring caravan, a conventional motorhome or a van conversion before committing your entire life to an inappropriate vehicle.

Secondly, substance trumps style. Yes, it’s great to have tiled floors and log burners in your Instagram pictures, but they’re not particularly practical. Usually very heavy, they’re also fire and carbon monoxide risks if not installed properly. Consider what you really need from your vehicle – are you living in it full time and, if so, where? Will you have access to electric and gas facilities? Spec your vehicle out appropriately for the time you’re planning to spend, not just how it looks in photos.

Finally, build up to the adventure. You might have spent a week in your caravan, but living in it for months is an entirely different experience. The longer you spend inside it, the higher the demands will be, including additional strain on the fixtures and fittings, which are much easier to repair at home than when you suddenly need to get them working on your trip.

Personally, I’d love to quit my job and tour the world in a leisure vehicle non-stop. However, I think that people who do it on a whim – possibly for the wrong reasons – harm our industry. They build a large following only to let them down with why it doesn’t work. But, in most cases, it’s because they haven’t done it properly when in reality there are plenty of success stories from those who know what they’re doing.

Photo credit: Thirdman / Pexels

Veganuary meals for your next touring adventure

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Veganuary is an annual challenge that involves participants eating a vegan diet for the month of January. The charity event is held to increase awareness around the environmental and health impacts that eating meat and animal products has on the world and our bodies. 

For those planning a touring trip away in a caravan or motorhome this month, organising meat and dairy-free meals can seem daunting at first, particularly in cold weather when salads simply won’t cut it. 

To help you keep mealtimes interesting, we’ve come up with some vegan recipes that you can make in your campervan or the outdoors. 

First of all, you’ll need to ensure you have the right equipment, including:

  • Small camping stove
  • Gas
  • Cutlery set
  • Chopping knife
  • Bowl or plate
  • Mug
  • Cooking pots

All of these recipes are simple to make and require little preparation. Some are vegan takes on classic winter touring meals, whereas others are a bit more experimental. 

Tofu scramble 

A Veganuary take on the classic breakfast of scrambled eggs on toast. Switch the dairy for some tofu, add some sliced onion, garlic, your favourite spices and some cherry tomatoes and serve on toast for the perfect way to start the day – vegan style. 

Vegan chilli con carne

How about chilli sin carne, instead? A go-to favourite for touring enthusiasts, chilli is simple, affordable and tastes delicious. Keep it vegan by switching out the minced meat for vegan alternatives like lentils, kidney beans or mixed vegetables. For the spice mix, you’ll need cumin, paprika, garlic granules and a generous helping of chilli powder. Mix it all together in a pan and serve with some fluffy rice or wrapped in a tortilla. 

Vegan spaghetti bolognese

Pasta is a staple camping food, but just because you’re doing Veganuary doesn’t mean you’re limited to store-bought tomato sauces. Instead, impress the family by whipping up a vegan spaghetti bolognese. 

Chop up some carrots, celery and garlic and fry with a little olive oil in a pan. Once done, add some lentils in place of minced meat, chopped tomatoes and some Italian seasoning. Serve with spaghetti and top with basil leaves. 

Baked potatoes 

Simple yet effective, baked potatoes are a hassle-free meal ideal for chilly winter evenings. All you need to do is wrap the potato in tin foil and nestle it in the embers of your campfire until it’s cooked. Top with vegan cheese, guacamole, vegetables or beans. You can also choose to switch regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a healthier alternative. 

Bonus: Vegan hot chocolate

Ok, it’s not a meal per se but what’s better than a cup of hot cocoa by the campfire on a winter’s night? Make it from scratch using plant-based milk (like almond, rice or soy) and vegan chocolate, or check out some store-bought vegan cocoa powders. 

 

Image credit: Sandra Harris / Unsplash

Is modern consumer tech causing more road accidents?

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Technology is a part of almost everybody’s daily life and, with such a high demand for consumer-friendly gadgets, it’s only going to become more and more integrated into our routines. In fact, the consumer electronic markets saw revenue of almost £24 billion last year, according to Statista.

Almost every adult has a smartphone and it’s more than likely the vast majority of owners use their device every day. So, as tech becomes increasingly advanced and more accessible than ever before, is the abundance of gadgets inside our vehicles contributing to road accidents?

That’s exactly what Jardine Motors sought to uncover in its research on the world of tech available to motorists. Let’s take a look at the effects our gadgets have on the road and how we could prevent it in the future.

Mobile phones

It’s no surprise that mobile phones would make it into this article. Available since Motorola pioneered the ‘Personal Phone’ in 1992, it’s a gadget that has evolved significantly over the years.

With so many phones in pockets, research has found that half of all drivers between the ages of 25 and 34 admitted to making or receiving calls when driving. Besides breaking the law, what are the consequences? You might not be surprised to know that experts say you’re four times more likely to crash and, if texting or typing, the multiplier jumps up to six.

Although texting while driving has been illegal since 2003, the laws were expanded in March 2022 to be more inclusive of the new processes that our gadgets can accomplish. It doesn’t just cover mobile phones, but any device capable of connecting to the internet. This includes tablets, sat navs and any other device that can “send and receive data”. If you’re caught breaking one of these rules, you could face six points on your licence and a £200 fine.

How can you avoid all of these horrible punishments? It’s very simple – don’t look at your phone while driving. If you do need to be on a call in transit, consider connecting your device to the Bluetooth system or invest in a hands-free headset.

Headphones

Just as mobile phones have evolved significantly over the years, so have the accessories you can use them with. Headphones come in the box with most smartphones and usually have a microphone attached for hands-free phone calls, as well as listening to media.

According to an Audio Analytics survey, 97 per cent of us think it’s dangerous to wear headphones while behind the wheel. Additionally, 37 per cent of respondents had found themselves in a dangerous situation while using them.

It’s not illegal in the UK to be driving whilst wearing headphones, although police do have the right to penalise you for not being in line with the due care and attention act if you’re pulled over with them on. Moreover, driving safely requires a lot of attention and research has shown we react faster to sound rather than sight. Perhaps it’s best to listen to the radio or connect your device to the Bluetooth feature in your vehicle.

The tech making our vehicles safer

Don’t worry – it’s not all gloom. The evolution of technology is really not a bad thing at all. In fact, plenty of gadgets are installed in modern vehicles to make them much safer. Think about parking assist tools like sensors that beep to prevent collisions, or rear-view cameras that give you more visibility when reversing.

There’s no slowdown either, with new tech on the horizon including automation and the development of blind spot warning systems that can detect oncoming threats. New gadgets that make driving safer are eagerly anticipated, with 64 per cent of drivers wanting to see this implemented in their vehicles.

The bottom line is that when you’re driving, make sure you’re prioritising the safety of yourself and those around you. If we all stick to the rules, we can lap up the brilliant new tech vehicles are receiving while enjoying the open road.

Photo credit: Jardine Motors

4 winter walks you won’t want to miss

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Coastal paths, hiking trails, rural routes – the UK is home to some of the most outstanding walks in the world. Come the fierce depths of winter, it can be easy to think you’re better off wrapped up in a cosy blanket. However, heading off along one of Great Britain’s fantastic walking routes on a cold January morning will come with great rewards.

Walks in the winter are seriously underrated and, considering how short the days are, soaking up as much sunshine as you can is a great way to boost morale. Luckily, there are so many routes to explore in the UK. From slow, scenic walks where you can take in your surroundings, to intense hikes that get the blood pumping – read on to see some of the best trails you can take on this winter.

Walla Crag to Ashness Bridge, Cumbria

Heading through valleys, above streams and reaching breathtaking viewpoints, this Lake District route is one of the best walks when it comes to beautiful scenery. Take a break at Ashness Bridge, one of the most photographed places in the area, to take in the view. At roughly 4.5 miles, it’s a moderate trail that takes about two hours from start to finish. 

Heddon Valley, Devon

Following Devon’s north coast and neighbouring Exmoor national park, Heddon Valley is a route like no other. Pass through ancient woodland as you traverse the River Heddon towards the sea, offset by imposing cliffside views and a vast array of wildlife. The area is a site of special scientific interest, which means the creatures you bump into won’t always be just average bugs and birds, but otters and the rarely-seen high brown fritillary butterfly.

Beatrix Potter Walk, Sawrey

One for those looking for a challenge and especially of interest to literary fans, the Beatrix Potter trail takes adventurers through numerous sites relating to the author. This route passes Claife Heights and the villages of Hawkshead and Sawrey, offering up the sights and sounds that inspired Beatrix Potter. As you make your way along the 13-mile journey, you’ll experience the magical woodland of Cockshott Point and, if it sounds a bit daunting, there’s a shuttle bus and a ferry that you can hop on and off to suit your itinerary.

Corfe Castle, Dorset

Corfe Castle is one of the UK’s most photographed sites, which makes this winter walk a particularly special getaway. For the early birds among us, you can catch the mist lingering over the ruins as the sun rises on a cold morning. Popular routes around the castle include the Common History Walk, on which you can look out for signs of early human activity around the site, as well as the roughly 9-mile Purbeck Ridgeway Walk, which leads from the castle to the coastline.

Photo credit: Maria Orlova / Pexels

The biggest travel trends of 2023

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Brits are looking to save money on their holidays next year, according to a survey of 1,000 customers by Verdant Leisure. The results highlighted that many people (84 per cent) are more likely to head out on a staycation next year, with more than half (56 per cent) of respondents saying the cost of living crisis will be the main factor steering them away from a trip overseas.

The survey explores both industry and internal booking data to show the biggest travel trends for the upcoming year. It’s not all about staycations, though. Read on to find out more about the top items on the travel agenda for 2023.

Budget holidays are on the rise

There are, on average, over 7,000 monthly Google searches for ‘cheap holidays’, showing a clear desire for affordable getaways. The current state of the economy has been felt by everyone across the UK, so it comes as no surprise that Brits are looking to make the most of every penny.

The data from Verdant Leisure showed that almost half of respondents had a staycation budget of under £200 per person, while 76 per cent make value for money the number one priority when looking to book a holiday.

Scotland is at the top of the bucket list

We’ve written about Scotland a lot here at CaravanTimes. It’s no coincidence either – Scotland really does have it all. It’s a beloved holiday destination, offering unbeatable scenery, breathtaking hiking trails, deep-rooted culture and everything from impressive mountains to boundless coastline.

In fact, Scotland saw people travel for more than three million domestic overnight stays in 2021. The survey data reflected consistent demand for Scottish tourism, with 40 per cent of respondents highlighting the beautiful land as the most desired UK holiday destination.

Holidaymakers want to explore the outdoors

Current research suggests the most popular spots for domestic UK holidays are those along the coast. Verdant Leisure’s survey revealed almost two-thirds of Brits are hoping to head to the coast next year, while 30 per cent are eager to explore the countryside.

We know our readers are especially interested in the Great British outdoors, so the results don’t come as a shock. Almost half of the respondents said they’d like to visit more national parks in 2023 and it’s brilliant to see a strong appetite for the UK’s brilliant and varied landscape.

Romantic getaways are on the cards

Heading on tour is mostly about escaping from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Getting away with your partner can provide the perfect backdrop for some well-deserved unwinding. As a result, cosier, romantic options for accommodation, such as lodges, are becoming highly desired.

From the data, roughly three in five people (58 per cent) said they were most likely to book a UK holiday with their significant other next year. Perhaps a romantic trip to the Scottish coast?

Man’s best friend

Across the world, people can’t get enough of their furry friends. Brits are no exception to this and perhaps hold an even greater affinity for pets. As such, it comes as no surprise that 40 per cent of us are making pet-friendly destinations a priority.

Animals love many of the same things we’re looking for in a great holiday – playing on the beach, splashing around in the sea and running around the woods. So, it makes perfect sense that people are looking to bring them along for the ride.

Photo credit: Engin Akyurt / Pexels

5 of the most beautiful drives in Britain

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With almost half of Brits planning to take a road trip this festive season, many have decided to look for destinations closer to home to avoid travel chaos. 

A study by Drivalia has revealed the country’s most spectacular road trip routes to experience in a car, caravan or motorhome. From the highlands in Scotland to the coast of Wales, each route on the list offers something unique.  So why not take in some of the UK’s best scenery on your next touring adventure?

Kendal to Keswick in the Lake District, England  

Winding through the Lake District, this road trip route is one of the best ways to see all of the natural beauty that the region has to offer. Stretching for 30 miles, the drive from Kendal to Keswick offers some of the most exceptional views of Lakeland fells and the banks of Windermere. It’s no wonder it snagged the first place on the list. 

The area is also home to numerous caravan sites, so you won’t be short on places to pitch up along the way. 

Loch Lomond to Glencoe, Scotland

Take in mesmerising views of Argyll Forest Park, Loch Tulla and Loch Ba along the drive from Loch Lomond to Glencoe in Scotland. This region is one of the best in the UK for stunning natural beauty. Be sure to some time exploring the many castles and charming villages that dot the landscape. 

The Coastal Way, Wales

Running the whole length of Cardigan Bay, the Coastal Way is 180 miles of breathtaking sea and mountain views. The Welsh coastline is one of the most beautiful areas in the UK and is a popular touring destination all year round, so there are plenty of caravan sites to stay at along the way. Highlights include Criccieth Castle, Portmeirion and Aberystwyth.

Snake Pass – the Pennines, England

Snake Pass is a mountain pass that can be found between Manchester and Sheffield. At an elevation of 512 metres above sea level, it guarantees 42 miles of spectacular views. Note that Snake Pass is often closed in the winter months due to the roads becoming icy, so be sure to check that it’s open ahead of time. Also, be aware that this is a hazardous route and the road has many tricky bends, so you’ll need to drive carefully. 

Cheddar Gorge 

One of the UK’s top landmarks, Cheddar Gorge is an Area of Outstanding Beauty. The winding road that threads through the gorge was voted the fifth-best road trip route in the UK. There are many hiking trails, viewpoints and caves to explore while you’re there and plenty of caravan parks for pitching up along the way. 

 

5 of the most common caravanning misconceptions

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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.

There are a lot of misconceptions about caravanning, from both people within our community and those on the outside. We all know that heading off in a leisure vehicle can provide incredible holidays and a fantastic opportunity to get away at the drop of a hat, but some people might be put off if they were to believe the stigma. Let’s take a look at some of the common mistakes people make when it comes to caravans.

Towing and reversing are extremely difficult

I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve been towing a caravan and jumped out of my skin after taking a glance in the mirror and thinking I was getting rear-ended by a truck. That’s to say, towing is so easy you could actually forget you’re doing it! There are some really great towing courses out there and I even attended one at the Caravan and Motorhome Club. Not only do they teach you skills and techniques, but also instil confidence.

Reversing with a caravan is like anything in life: practice makes perfect. You wouldn’t put a 17-year-old learner driver in a car and expect them to nail parallel parking every single time. But give them a few months of experience and it’ll suddenly become second nature to them. It’s the same with a caravan – 90 per cent confidence, 10 per cent ability. 

Caravans leak

While many years ago this might have been a fair statement, it’s simply not true anymore. Of course, there will be certain times when water ingress can occur for multiple reasons, however the outdated opinion that all caravans leak is no longer reasonable. The way modern motorhomes are constructed has been revolutionised over the last 15 years, with lots of new material design principles and rigorous testing. Usually, if a leak does occur, it’s because the shell has been damaged. Overall, caravans are absolutely not leaky.

Caravans are cold

If you’re reading this on the date of publication, you’re probably experiencing daytime temperatures around -1 degrees celsius. Caravans of the past were indeed cold and, having spent many of my childhood years in an old caravan, I can testify to that. But, modern versions are highly insulated, with huge improvements to both blown air and wet central heating systems. They’re also submitted to NEC Grade 3 testing, either through calculations or a physical cold chamber. Caravans that pass are able to raise all four corners from -5°C to 25°C in less than three hours – that’s far quicker than any home. New models are built to extremely high standards, with modern methods to ensure heat is retained well.

Caravanners are weirdos

Well, that might be a bit harsh, but there’s a common stigma that caravanners are a bit too eccentric. That’s not the case! It’s an amazing way for you to enjoy activities and some of the coolest people in the world all head out in their motorhomes. Rockstars, F1 drivers, motorcycle racers… The list could go on and on. Why do they hit the road? Because caravans are effective, practical and comfy. You can go wherever you want, whenever you want. So, pitch up on site and be surprised by quite how interesting the caravanning community is.

All caravans are big white boxes

Like a good box of chocolates, caravans come in all shapes and sizes. Teardrop, bubble, oblong – there’s so many variations other than the traditional white box. Today, there are an array of manufacturers, unlike back in the day where if you didn’t want a cube, your only option was to buy an Airstream. Additionally, caravans are now specialised for leisure activities and different designs offer varying access options.

So, if you’ve ever been tempted to try caravanning but have felt put off by one of these outdated misconceptions, try it now! There’s no need to make a big commitment, as there are lots of rental companies for touring caravans. Give it a go – I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised and it would make an excellent Christmas present.

Photo credit: Engin Akyurt / Pexels

10 useful winter camping tips

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Whether you plan on camping out in a tent, motorhome or caravan, winter touring can be a wonderful experience. 

Cold nights huddled around a campfire, falling asleep to the silence of snowfall, waking up to that crisp winter air scent – sounds magical, doesn’t it? 

However, camping in the cold weather requires you to take extra precautions to ensure harsh conditions don’t put a damper on your trip. 

With that in mind, The Camping and Caravanning Club have put together a list of winter camping tips to help you stay warm on your next touring outing. 

Set up camp in the daylight 

The sun sets earlier during the winter months. To avoid any hassle setting up your campsite in the dark, be sure to arrive in time so that you still have plenty of daylight to work with when pitching your tent or hooking up your motorhome. 

Pack extra blankets

There’s no such thing as too many blankets. Well, maybe there is if you’re camping in the sweltering summer heat, but in the winter months, you’ll be grateful for all the covers you can get. Pack extra blankets to ensure no one spends the night shivering. These can also be placed on the ground for sleeping insulation if you’re camping in a tent. 

Wear layers

Wear plenty of layers made of materials that are designed to protect against the cold such as wool, silk and polyester. Be sure to invest in a good waterproof jacket too in case of any unexpected showers while you’re out and about. 

Take suitable footwear

Winter camping often involves traipsing through the rain, mud and snow. Make sure you have appropriate footwear that will keep your feet warm and dry. Additionally, pack plenty of socks to keep your toes toasty. 

Leave your shoes inside

It’s a good idea to keep your shoes inside to prevent them from freezing overnight. Be sure to clean them properly before doing so. 

Eat to stay warm

Eating nutritious and balanced meals and snacks when camping can help to raise your body temperature and protect you against the elements. Foods that take longer to digest, such as oats and potatoes, are good options. 

Choose your pitching spot carefully

One of the best ways to stay warm when camping in the winter is to choose your pitching spot carefully. Whether you’re sleeping in a tent or a motorhome, look for a sheltered spot to shield you from the wind. 

Stay in touch when going solo

If you’re heading out on your own, be sure to let someone know your whereabouts. This is particularly important if you’re camping somewhere remote where there is limited phone service.

Check the weather forecast

Be sure to check the weather conditions before setting out. If you can be flexible to avoid heavy rainfall or snowfall, you’ll be much less likely to suffer from the cold. 

Pack for emergencies

No matter the weather, it’s always a good idea to pack a kit of useful items before setting off on a camping or touring adventure. Include things like a shovel, a first aid kit, bottled water and an emergency blanket. 

 

Image credit: Jordan Irving / Unsplash

How to decorate your caravan this Christmas

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Across the festive period, over 11.5 million of us are planning a holiday, according to VisitEngland. But to really get into the Christmas spirit, you can’t neglect decorating your home and this includes your second home – the one that has four wheels.

Considering the average caravan can sleep between two to six guests, there’s quite a lot of space to work with when it comes down to decorating. According to Shane Spence of Sell The Caravan, there are plenty of affordable, unobtrusive ways to spruce up the motorhome this Christmas, so read on for some festive inspiration.

Pick a theme

Before you start shopping for tinsel and baubles, think about the space you have available and what would work best with your existing decor. If you’re based by the beautiful British coast and already have a beach theme in your caravan, you could add to your current design by choosing similar colours – think blue (or as close as you can get), like snow or icicles.

Wreath

Most of us imagine a grand, wooden door when we picture a hanging wreath. However, it will look great outside your caravan too. The main consideration is that it will be exposed to considerably worse conditions than it would be at home, so make sure to choose a material that can resist the wind and rain.

Exterior decorations

If you can get hold of Christmas lights that are safe to use outside, you could always decorate the exterior of your caravan. There are a few places that sell outdoor fairy lights, as well as plenty of other items. Do think about how bright your motorhome could end up being and consider your neighbours, as you don’t want to upset anyone by beaming into their windows all night.

Christmas tree

Ok, it’s most likely not going to be a full-size Christmas tree for a few reasons, namely the height and floor area it would take up. So instead, opt for a tabletop tree, which adds to your overall theme without limiting the space you’ve got. Don’t forget to decorate your mini tree with mini baubles – perhaps a caravan ornament or two?

Nibbles

Decorating your caravan doesn’t just mean making it look pretty. It needs to be a fully functioning Christmas machine, which means there need to be festive foods. Treat yourself to your favourite snacks, although it’s best to obtain those which don’t require refrigeration or much prep time. Mince pie, anyone?

Music

Christmas just isn’t the same without music. The final piece of the seasonal puzzle is selecting the right tunes to spread the festive spirit and create a great atmosphere. Plus, it’s the only socially acceptable time of the year to listen to hits like ‘All I Want for Christmas is You’ and ‘Fairytale of New York’, so make the most of it.

Photo credit: Gary Spears / Pexels

2022: The highlights

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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 got the best job in the world. I get to see all the new caravans and motorhomes as they’re released by manufacturers. I assess them as part of my judging roles, test new towcars and explore new places to stay. At some press events, I even get to meet celebrities and talk about the great outdoors. On top of all that, I get to spend time intimately filming and producing content on caravans and motorhomes, providing reviews for all different types of organisations.

The job does involve a lot of time away from the family and travelling up and down the country, but it’s well worth it. So I thought I’d give you some insight into my highlights of the year.

Winter

Thinking back to the start of 2022, there were a lot of shows in the opening six or seven weeks. Manchester, Birmingham NEC and Glasgow, to name a few. Not only did I attend these events, but I worked at them, judging the Motorhome Innovation Awards at the February NEC show.

I love the events, but long travel, short, dark days and classically bad British weather aren’t as welcome. However, the relief I found in Scotland as I headed up to Aviemore in the caravan for a snowboarding trip was fantastic. Glasgow at this time of year is nothing short of perfect for the snowy conditions and it reminded me there’s more to caravanning and motorhoming than sodium lighting and event venues.

At the end of February, I was privileged to be invited to the launch of the Queen’s Green Canopy with the Caravan and Motorhome Club. It’s an excellent tree-planting initiative that was set up to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee and now acts as a memorial to her lasting legacy.

Spring

Heading into March, the easter planning began to creep in. Suddenly, like most of us, I was considering the possibilities of non-winter-related outdoor sports, places and things to do. Personally, this is when I really start to enjoy taking my leisure vehicle to new destinations. I try to visit two to three sites each spring to give reviews, but also just to enjoy them. I’d encourage all of our readers to do the same – get out and try new experiences.

Summer

Entering the summer months is when we started receiving lots of press releases for caravans and motorhomes scheduled to hit the market in 2023. The work we did involved travelling all over, from Durham to Hull and Germany to Italy. With so much movement, we really initiated our geek-level approach as to what the next year would hold for our community.

Hooray! The school holidays have crept up on us. At this point in the year, most manufacturers closed their doors and fewer press events were booked. So what did we do? Obviously, we headed off to try a few international campsites with the kids! This involved our first-ever all-inclusive camping facility in Benidorm at the Magic Robin Hood Holiday Park. With an array of impressive, on-site water slides, it was just amazing for the children.

Another one of my highlights came as the summer months closed out when we headed up to the famous Millbrook Proving Ground. The whole week included getting to grips with all the latest vehicles, towing caravans around high-speed bowls and mountain routes, as well as speed and reversing tests. It was brilliant, as always, to be involved with the event.

Autumn and winter

Coming toward the end of 2022, the October NEC show gave us a lot to look forward to and a lot of work involved to make sure everybody has what they need and, of course, the judging of the show.

At this time of the year, we start to look at persuading people not to put their caravan or motorhome into storage for the winter but instead offer inspiration and reasons why they should use their leisure vehicles all year long. 

This is when we really see the benefits of the Grade Three tests and cold chamber filmings we’ve done in the past. Inevitably, it’s also when I put my Christmas tree and three or four motorhome baubles up, and offer a prize to the person who sends in the best ‘I had Christmas dinner in a caravan’ story.

I really do have the best job in the world. As we approach the festive season, I always realise how great this industry is. Unlike other areas that can be very cut-throat, we’re a family that looks after each other and inspires our community to do more, share adventures and make sure the whole country has caravanning, motorhoming and the great outdoors available to them.

Ultimate locations for a Scottish staycation

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Staycations are becoming an increasingly popular choice for holidaymakers seeking a break without having to deal with airport chaos and queues. Instead, the number of Brits considering jumping in their caravan or motorhome and hitting the road has grown by 20 per cent in the last two years.

Scotland has surged in popularity with holidaymakers over the past few years, with Edinburgh and Glasgow rated two of the most visited cities in the UK last year. 

With that in mind, new research from Lottie has revealed the ultimate Scottish staycation destinations for touring enthusiasts to enjoy. The selections were based on several criteria, including affordability, popularity and well-being. 

So, without further ado here are the top destinations in Scotland to head to in your leisure vehicle. 

Haddington

Haddington is a town in East Lothian that’s located in close proximity to some of Scotland’s best beaches. Just 17 miles from Edinburgh, this royal burgh town has an incredible history and plenty to offer as a staycation destination. 

Use Haddington as a base to explore the East Lothian region and discover historic sites like Hailes Castle, Tantallon Castle and Newhailes House and Gardens. 

Stonehaven

Situated on Scotland’s northeast coast, Stonehaven is a pretty harbour town that’s known around the world for its Hogmanay fireballs ceremony. 

Be sure to pay a visit to Dunnottar Castle, one of the most iconic landmarks in the country. With various caravan parks dotted along the coast, there are plenty of spots to pitch up. 

Glenrothes

Located in the heart of Fife, Glenrothes is a charming staycation destination full of green spaces and popular attractions such as Balfarg Henge and the Glenrothes and Area Heritage Centre. 

Fraserburgh

If you want to explore some of Scotland’s magical coastline on your next touring adventure, be sure to head to Fraserburgh in Aberdeenshire. A major fishing port, this town has a plethora of activities and attractions to enjoy, such as golfing, birding opportunities and hiking trails. 

St Andrews

St Andrews is a seaside town located just north of Edinburgh. Explore the stunning seaside, St Andrews Cathedral and the various other attractions on offer before pitching up for the night in your caravan or motorhome. 

Airdrie

Located in North Lanarkshire, just north of Glasgow, Airdrie is a charming staycation destination with many modern and historical attractions. Explore the town’s surroundings such as Hillend Loch and Black Loch, a popular spot for angling, and enjoy the wildlife trails in the Rawyards woodland.

North Ayrshire 

One of Scotland’s 32 council areas, North Ayrshire is a popular destination for touring enthusiasts who want to explore Scotland’s natural beauty. Be sure to visit Largs seafront, Eglinton Country Park and Saltcoats Beach. 

 

Image credit: John Roberts / Unsplash