Halfords figures show camping popularity is rising

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The trend for camping and caravan holidays in the UK has been highlighted by growth reported by an industry retailer.

Halfords posted growth of 2.2 per cent during the second quarter of 2009 and specifically noted its success in the cycling and camping markets.

The recession has seen a number of Brits decide to take staycations – holidays in the UK – and the retailer has benefited, with profits of up to £61 million forecast.

Meanwhile, the outdoor trend is not only taking place in the UK – the Barcelona Reporter recently revealed that the Barcelona Camping and Caravan show drew a record crowd this year.

Around 22,000 visitors attended the event, which was showcasing the latest vehicles for outdoor holidays.

The show had 70 exhibitors and representatives from more than 100 Spanish campsites and attendees were also able to take part in a seminar organised by the Federation of Camp Sites in Catalonia.

Chris Malone

Caravan Club to invest more in advertising and sites

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The Caravan Club is set to spend more cash on advertising campaigns and expanding its presence at travel industry events as part of plans to continue to develop the trend for holidaying in mobile homes.

Director Nick Lomas explained the organisation is preparing to invest in its Discover Touring project, as well as growing its portfolio of sites.

He revealed it has added Burrs Country Park to its list of facilities in recent weeks in addition to the eight other sites opened in 2009.

Advance bookings for the network have increased 40 per cent in comparison to 2008 figures and Mr Lomas stated the rise in interest is due to both returning caravanners and first-timers.

He revealed many of the club’s customers are sharing their childhood experiences with their own kids.

The organisation has also sent 50,000 families across the English Channel to France since the beginning of the year.

The news comes in the same week that the Caravan and Motorhome Show is taking place in Birmingham’s NEC.

Another instalment of the event is set to take place in Manchester at the end of January.

Chris Malone

Caravan show’s name changed

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Mobile home enthusiasts planning on attending The National Boat, Caravan & Outdoor Show in February may struggle to find information on the event.

This is because organisers Ocean Media have decided to change the brand name of the expo to The Boat & Caravan Show, according to a Boating Business report.

Due to take place in Birmingham’s NEC from February 23rd to 28th, the exhibition is now in its 49th year.

Around 80 per cent of the exhibition space has already been sold for the event – which Ocean Media claims to be the largest outdoor show in the UK.

Visitors will be able to browse information and products from tents to campsites to caravans.

Exhibitors from both the UK and abroad will be in attendance, meaning there is a diverse choice of displays for those buying tickets.

Ocean Media marketing director Karen Dodd told the online resource that the show’s name has been shortened by visitors and explained the company felt it should respond by re-launching the brand.

Meanwhile, the NEC is this week hosting the International Caravan and Motorhome Show.

Chris Malone

New Romahome model to be launched at Birmingham show

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A new compact motorhome based on the Citroen Berlingo is to be launched by Romahome at the International Caravan and Motorhome Show.

The event, which is taking place in Birmingham’s NEC today (October 13th), will showcase the latest in mobile homes.

It will be used to unveil the R25 – the latest design from the Isle of Wight company that won Motorhome Manufacturer of the Year.

Managing director of the firm Brian Baily said: “The Romahome has become the Swiss Army Knife of the motorhome world because it manages to pack so much in the way of useful detail into such a compact form.”

He explained that the model has been “keenly anticipated” by caravan and motorhome fans and added he is sure no one will be disappointed.

The R25 is the fifth in the range, with the first – the Citroen Nemo-based R10 – being launched only a year ago.

Visitors considering a trip to the International Caravan and Motorhome Show have until October 18th to attend.

Chris Malone

Bournemouth voted staycation capital of UK

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Caravan owners looking for somewhere to spend a late-season break may be interested to hear that Bournemouth has been voted the staycation capital of the UK.

A recent survey conducted by Virgin Money Travel Insurance looked at 66 of the country’s favourite holiday destinations and found the seaside resort to be the best.

Weather, price and quality of attractions were all taken into consideration and the Dorset coastal town scored highest, beating off competition from Brighton, Scarborough and London.

British Resorts and Destinations Association director Peter Hampton explained that the town has a lot to offer, with shows, theatres and other entertainment, as well as a seven-mile long sandy beach.

“There’s stuff for granny to do and there’s also stuff for the toddlers and stuff for the teenagers, because that’s what the UK holiday market’s about – it’s about providing what the customer wants,” he said.

Of the 66 destinations covered by the survey, Loch Ness came lowest, followed by the Shetland Islands, Southwold and Portrush.

Chris Malone

Caravan holidays could boost UK tourism long-term

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Caravan owners could contribute to a resurgence in the British domestic tourism industry after it was suggested the recession could give it a long-term boost.

The increased popularity of staycations brought on by the financial downturn could help build a lasting industry for UK travel, the British Resorts and Destinations Association (BRADA) said.

There was a 14 per cent rise in the number of Brits taking holidays in the UK during the first half of 2009, which came alongside a 17 per cent decline in international travel, VisitEngland figures show.

Commenting, BRADA director Peter Hampton said people are often pleasantly surprised when they take holidays in the UK.

“There are surveys that have said a significant number of people – despite allegedly poor weather this summer – [are] planning to go back to the UK next year,” he explained.

VisitEngland figures show UK attractions recording a 15 per cent increase in footfall during the second quarter of the year, while The Caravan Club recently revealed that it has seen a 40 per cent rise in advance bookings this season.

Chris Malone

Caravan Sales up by 40 per cent

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Caravan sales have increased by 40 per cent in the first half of the financial year, it has been claimed.

Park Resorts, which runs a number of camping sites, said the UK caravan industry has enjoyed a “record-breaking season” this year thanks to the number of Brits holidaying in the UK.

Commenting, The Caravan Club spokesperson Nikki Nichol explained the trend could continue for years to come.

She suggested that those who had chosen to holiday in a mobile home this year might decide to make it a regular occurrence.

Ms Nichol claimed the option of having your own mobile holiday home allows people to change their lifestyle.

“Who wouldn’t want a holiday every Friday night? If you have a caravan, you can do that,” the spokesperson said.

Meanwhile, a recent poll from IM Financial Services discovered that almost nine in ten (89 per cent) of respondents would consider buying a caravan.

Chris Malone

Outdoor store notices caravan sales rise

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An Enfield outdoor store has noticed a large rise in demand for caravan equipment and cold weather gear over the past few weeks.

Outdoor Bits, which is located in Green Lanes, told the Enfield Independent that it has recorded a surge in sales of up to 30 per cent since the recent blizzard conditions descended on the UK.

Director David Burley explained that gas-related heating products have been selling well, while batteries for cars and motorhomes have proven popular due to the cold weather.

“Snowbelts, which are like snowchains, and shovels [have also been selling well],” he told the newspaper.

“We’re probably up 25 to 30 per cent on sales over what we would expect for this time of year.”

Mr Burley added that the recession has also boosted caravan-related sales as Brits look more at holidaying in the UK to save cash.

Tooled Up – another local store- also revealed that sales of heating products, flasks, torches, shovels and even chainsaws have almost doubled since the snowstorms began.

Meanwhile, the Association of British Insurers has urged caravan owners to avoid leaving their motor with the engine running to defrost snow or ice on the windshield.

Touring Europe third place in ‘things to do before I die’ poll

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You’d be forgiven for thinking that cruises and bowls are the things old age pensioners look forward to when retiring, such are the stereotypes. However a new study commissioned by insurers Aviva higlights a growing band of ‘Go.A.Ps’ who describe the first year post-work as ‘brilliant’. And in a poll of pensioners asked about ‘things to do before you die’, touring Europe in a caravan was right up there in third place.

In first place 47% surveyed said they would love to visit some of the Seven Wonders of the World, while learning a language made second place. Meanwhile a few results from the top 10 will surprise some: 12% of pensioners said they would like to go out with a younger man or woman before they die, while 11% said they’d like to drive a Ferrari.

Todays new pensioners are more active than ever, with an average of eight social engagements a week. They’re not dragging their other halfs to functions either – many stressed that romance is a “top priority” while their relationships have never been so good. And the post-work buzz continues when they were questioned on the hoary old subject of age. Those asked believed society won’t consider them “old” before at least 68, and so ‘look forward to enjoying themselves for years’.

Twenty years ago those surveyed believed that they would spend retirement babysitting for their grandchildren, gardening and reading. Yet today’s retired are taking up photography (25%), going out with friends, and have a list of things to do that include starting their own business and skydiving.

As the ‘baby-boomer’ generation of the 1950s grows into the pensioners of today, Caravan Times is reminded of a quote from former prime minister Harold MacMillan in 1957: “You’ve never had it so good”.

Volkswagen Golf voted best towcar at caravan awards

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It is an often stated misconception that the best cars for towing caravans are the biggest. Granted, large 4Ã-4s and estates crop up in every list due to their impressive grip and power. However traits such as handling and acceleration are equally as important in towing. And when this is taken into account some surprises can occur.

This year the Caravan Club voted for the Towcar Of The Year, and the result threw up one of the most familar names in family motoring. The Volkswagen Golf particularly impressed the 10 judges with strong performances when towing in a variety of situations, practicality as a caravanning family car and high quality cabin.

28 cars tested in this year’s competition were put through their paces at the Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire. Each car was tested for its towing ability, acceleration, braking, ability to cope with demanding hill starts and an assessment of usability in terms of everyday caravanning.

Explaining the judges’ decision to award the Golf the top accolade, driving judge Barry Williams commented: ‘Absolutely faultless stability made the Golf steadfast on the test track and when the punchy engine had whisked its way to 60 mph it was still ready to accelerate, even in sixth gear. Agile handling enables the car to tackle the most demanding route. The
Volkswagen Golf SE 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS is a truly capable towing vehicle and a worthy winner.’

Below Caravan Times profiles the winners in each category from this year’s awards.

Under £16,000 Class
Shortlisted:
Kia Soul Shaker 1.6 CRDi
Renault Kangoo Expression dCi 106

Winner: Kia Soul Shaker 1.6 CRDi
The Soul Shaker gives a spirited performance, has a usable bodyshape and promises low running costs. The 1.6-litre diesel engine offers reasonable amounts of power and torque for a car of this size. As a towcar for small caravans or trailer tents, Kia’s hatchback is a worthy winner. Biggish door mirrors and a high driving position add to the Soul’s towing credentials.

£16,000 to £20,000 Class
Shortlisted:
Peugeot 3008 Exclusive THP 150
Renault Megane Hatch Dynamique dCi 130
Toyota Verso 2.0 D-4D Man
Volkswagen Golf SE 2.0TDI

Winner: Volkswagen Golf SE 2.0TDI (Overall Caravan Club Towcar of the Year 2010)
The Golf has a great quality cabin with excellent fit and finish, and simple, intuitive switchgear and instrumentation that puts everything where you expect it to be. Absolutely faultless stability made this car steadfast on the test track, and when the punchy engine had whisked its way to 60mph it was still ready to accelerate, even in sixth gear. Agile handling enables the car to tackle the most demanding route.

£20,000 to £25,000 Class
Shortlisted:
Mazda6 2.2D Estate TS2
Renault Grand Scenic Dynamique dCi 160 FAP
Seat Exeo 2.0TDI Sport
Skoda Octavia Scout 2.0TDI 140bhp DPF
Skoda Superb Elegance 2.0TDI 140bhp DPF
Skoda Yeti 2.0TDI 140bhp 4×4 Elegance
Toyota Avensis T4 2.2 D-4D Tourer
Vauxhall Insignia SE Nav 2.0 (160) CDTI Hatch
Volkswagen Golf Plus SE 2.0TDI DSG

Winner: Mazda6 2.2D Estate TS2
With a flexible engine, bags of low-down torque and a six-speed gearbox that is not only good to use but well mated to the engine, it’s no surprise this is a very worthy class winner. Towing 1347kg, the good-looking estate car romped up the long 14% hill in third gear and tackled a 17% stop-and-restart quite easily. A super car at a great price.

£25,000 to £32,000 Class

Shortlisted:
Honda Accord Tourer 2.2 EX Tech
Isuzu Rodeo 3.0 Denver Max LE Sport
Skoda Superb Elegance 3.6 V6 4×4 DSG
Subaru Forester 2.0D XSn
Toyota RAV4 SR 2.2 D-4D Auto
Volvo XC60 SE D5 AWD
Volvo XC60 2.4D DRIVe SE LUX

Winner: Volvo XC60 SE D5 AWD
This vehicle has an extra powerful version of Volvo’s excellent five-cylinder engine as well as AWD. Gear changes are smooth and speed builds up rapidly when needed. Terms such as ‘confident’, ‘sure-footed’ and ‘doesn’t feel like it’s towing’, were used plentifully by the judges. Volvo has produced another excellent towcar.

Over £32,000 Class

Shortlisted:
Jaguar XF 3.0 Diesel S Portfolio
Land Rover Discovery 4 TDV6 HSE
Lexus RX450h SE-L
Mercedes-Benz C250 BlueEfficiency Estate Sport
Mercedes-Benz E350 CDI BlueEfficiency Sport
Volvo XC70 D5 SE LUX Premium

Winner: Land Rover Discovery 4 TDV6 HSE
If you want a car that will take you and your caravan anywhere in absolute comfort, you need look no further than the latest Discovery. Tap on the screen display and you can set the chassis especially for caravan towing, which results in faultless stability and a comfortable ride as you sit cosseted in the well-designed and practical interior.

All-Wheel Drive Vehicles Under 1800kg

Shortlisted:
Skoda Superb Elegance 3.6 V6 4×4 DSG
Skoda Octavia Scout 2.0 TDI 140bhp DPF
Skoda Yeti 2.0TDI 140bhp 4×4 Elegance
Subaru Forester 2.0D XSn
Toyota RAV4 SR 2.2 D-4D Auto

Winner: Skoda Superb Elegance 3.6 V6 4×4 DSG
The Superb proved itself a capable towcar by taking the top prize in the 2009 contest. For 2010 it was back, packing a 260bhp V6 engine and four-wheel drive. The Superb feels as solid as a rock, and it handles so well you can push it hard through twisty roads with real confidence. The Elegance version has a well turned out cabin and luxurious surroundings.

All-Wheel Drive Vehicles Over 1800kg

Shortlisted:
Isuzu Rodeo 3.0 Denver Max LE Sport
Lexus RX450h SE-L
Land Rover Discovery 4 TDV6 HSE
Volvo XC70 D5 SE LUX Premium
Volvo XC60 SE D5 AWD

Winner: Land Rover Discovery 4 TDV6 HSE

A second award for the latest incarnation of the iconic Discovery. This car may be heavier than a Rolls Royce but has impeccable on-road manners with little noticeable body roll when taking corners.

18 caravans destroyed in blaze at caravan storage yard

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Firefighters from across Hampshire tackled a blaze at a caravan storage park on Sunday.

18 caravans were destroyed with another 20 left seriously damaged by smoke and heat following the outbreak of fire at around 3pm. An eyewitness made a 999 phone call on September 27th to report smoke and flames coming from a caravan storage yard in Main Road, Colden Common.

Firefighters from Eastleigh, Winchester asnd St Mary’s fire stations were summoned to the scene along with a water carrier from Fareham. On arrival crews found a number of caravans on fire and moved to quickly bring the flames under control. The crews then worked to contain the fire from spreading through the storage yard which is home to many hundreds of caravans.

The fire was put out shortly after five o’clock on Sunday, two hours after the emergency call was made. Firefighters reported that 18 caravans had been destroyed and a further 20 were damaged by smoke and heat. The crews then stayed into the night at the scene damping down and looking for hot spots in other caravans.

The cause of the fire is now subject to an investigation by the Hampshire Arson Task Force.

Volkswagen Golf voted Towcar of the Year

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It is an often stated misconception that the best cars for towing caravans are the biggest. Granted, large 4×4s and estates crop up in every list due to their impressive grip and power. However traits such as handling and acceleration are equally as important in towing. And when this is taken into account some surprises can occur.

This year the Caravan Club voted for the Towcar Of The Year , and the result threw up one of the most familar names in family motoring. The Volkswagen Golf particularly impressed the 10 judges with strong performances when towing in a variety of situations, practicality as a caravanning family car and high quality cabin.

28 cars tested in this year’s competition were put through their paces at the Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire. Each car was tested for its towing ability, acceleration, braking, ability to cope with demanding hill starts and an assessment of usability in terms of everyday caravanning.

Explaining the judges’ decision to award the Golf the top accolade, driving judge Barry Williams commented: ‘Absolutely faultless stability made the Golf steadfast on the test track and when the punchy engine had whisked its way to 60 mph it was still ready to accelerate, even in sixth gear. Agile handling enables the car to tackle the most demanding route. The Volkswagen Golf SE 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS is a truly capable towing vehicle and a worthy winner.’

Below is a list of the winners in each category:

Under £16,000

Kia Soul Shaker 1.6 CRDi

£16,000 to £20,000

Volkswagen Golf SE 2.0TDI

£20,000 to £25,000

Mazda6 2.2D Estate TS2

£25,000 to £32,000

Volvo XC60 SE D5 AWD

Over £32,000

Land Rover Discovery 4 TDV6 HSE

All-Wheel Drive Vehicles Under 1800kg

Skoda Superb Elegance 3.6 V6 4×4 DSG

All-Wheel Drive Vehicles Over 1800kg

Land Rover Discovery 4 TDV6 HSE

Overall Winner

Volkswagen Golf SE 2.0TDI