Redline Campers to unveil nostalgic new model at the Motorhome & Caravan Show

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Redline Campers, the award-winning brand from Venture Caravans & Motorhomes, is set to unveil a brand new model at October’s Motorhome & Caravan Show, with a nod to one of its former bestsellers.

A milestone worth celebrating

With 2027 marking ten years since Venture Caravans & Motorhomes launched the Redline Campers brand, the Daventry-based company dug into its own archive for inspiration, reviving a feature first introduced in its earliest days. 

Full details remain under wraps until the show opens on 13th October 2026. The new model, based on the latest VW Transporter, will carry Redline’s signature safety credentials as an NCC Approved Manufacturer and VCA Whole Vehicle Type Approved converter.

Familiar features, exclusive materials

This model will feature Redline’s exclusive glass reinforced plastic (GRP) roof alongside a 100 per cent cotton roof canvas handcrafted by French tent manufacturer Cabanon, plus the brand’s much-requested Régis Rive bed, previously only seen on the Explorer.

The Explorer makes its NEC debut

Speaking of the Explorer, it will appear at the show for the first time, having quickly become one of Redline’s biggest sellers since launching earlier in 2026. Content creator Steven Aspinall, of Staycation Lifestyle, described it as a “headline-grabbing entry-level model” that “might just be the best value new campervan on the market”.

Updated Sport GT models and a focus on off-grid

Elsewhere, the Sport GT and Sport GT XS return for 2027 with new features, including a lithium leisure battery and an elevating roof bed platform. Redline will also showcase its Enhanced Off-Grid Pack, offering power without hookup, and demonstrate upcoming PHEV variants.

Visit Redline Campers in Hall 11, Stand 11.40, at the NEC from 13th to 18th October.

Image credits: Venture Caravans

The caravan and motorhome gear mistakes beginners make and how to avoid them

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Your first caravan or motorhome trip should feel like a breath of fresh air, but it can quickly turn stressful if you’re underprepared. Marcus Clarke, Founder at The Prepared Household, has shared some of the most common gear mistakes first-time tourers make, along with simple ways to avoid them.

Spending on the wrong things

It’s easy to splash out on eye-catching gadgets while overlooking the essentials. Marcus explains: “One of the biggest mistakes is choosing gear because it looks impressive rather than because it suits the trip. The right equipment depends on where you are going, the time of year and the conditions you are likely to face.” A reliable awning, proper levelling equipment and weather-appropriate bedding should always come before any extras.

Underestimating how quickly the temperature drops

A caravan or motorhome offers far more protection than a tent, but that doesn’t mean warmth is guaranteed overnight. A good sleeping system, insulated bedding and knowing how to use your heating efficiently all make a real difference, especially in the shoulder seasons.

Getting the packing balance wrong

Overpacking and underpacking are both common mistakes. A written checklist helps strike the right balance, making sure essentials like a first aid kit, torch and spare fuses don’t get left behind, without turning your storage into a squeeze.

Packing for one type of weather

British weather can turn quickly, so it pays to prepare for more than the day’s forecast. Pack layers, keep a waterproof outer layer to hand and bring dry spare clothing, since wet clothes left in a damp locker can leave you cold and uncomfortable later in the trip.

A little preparation now can be the difference between a miserable first night and a trip you can’t wait to repeat.

Image credits: Pixabay

5 tips to feel safe on your next solo motorhome trip

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Travelling solo in a motorhome can be one of the most freeing ways to explore and adventure, but it’s natural to want a few extra precautions in place before setting off alone. A little planning goes a long way towards feeling confident and secure on the road. Here are some of our tips. 

1. Share your plans with someone you trust

Before you leave, let a friend or family member know your rough route and where you plan to stop each night. Even just a quick check-in message once you’ve arrived somewhere new can offer real peace of mind – for you and for them.

2. Choose well-reviewed sites

Sticking to established campsites with good reviews, rather than isolated wild camping spots, tends to feel safer when travelling alone. Look for sites with secure gates, good lighting and other campers nearby.

3. Park with a quick exit in mind

When you arrive somewhere new, take a moment to park in a way that lets you drive off easily if you ever need to. Reversing into a pitch, rather than needing to manoeuvre out later, can make a real difference if you want to leave quickly.

4. Keep your motorhome secure

A steering wheel lock, door alarm or dash cam can all add an extra layer of reassurance, particularly when parked overnight somewhere unfamiliar. Simple habits, like locking up as soon as you arrive, matter too.

5. Trust your instincts

If a spot doesn’t feel right, it’s always worth moving on. There’s no obligation to stay somewhere that makes you uneasy. Most experienced solo tourers agree that instinct is one of the best safety tools you have.

With the right preparation, solo motorhome travel can feel just as safe as it is freeing, allowing you to explore with an easy mind.

Image credits: Pixabay

4 fun ways to entertain your kids without screens on your next caravan trip

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There’s a particular kind of magic to a camping or caravanning trip without a screen in sight, but getting the kids on board with that idea can take a bit of effort. The good news is a few simple activities are often all it takes to keep them happily occupied and having fun.

Go on a mini nature hunt

Give each child a small list of things to spot (a certain leaf shape, a specific colour or an unusual stone) and send them off exploring nearby. It costs nothing, gets everyone outside and often turns into a proper adventure before you know it.

Bring out the classic card and board games

A well-worn pack of cards or a compact travel game can entertain kids for hours, especially once the sun goes down. Games like Uno or Snap work brilliantly for mixed ages, so nobody feels left out.

Build a den

Give children a few blankets, some pegs and a bit of freedom and watch how long they’ll happily spend building their own hideaway. It’s simple, low cost and surprisingly absorbing.

Try some campfire storytelling

Take turns adding a line each to build a story together or let older kids make up their own ghost stories to tell by torchlight. It’s a lovely way to end the day and often becomes a favourite part of the trip.

A little imagination goes further than you’d expect and these are the moments kids tend to remember long after the holiday ends.

Image credits: Pixabay

5 delicious campsite meal ideas that don’t need a full kitchen

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There’s something about eating outdoors that makes even the simplest meal taste better, but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with beans on toast every night. With a bit of planning and minimal kit, you can put together meals on your caravan holiday that feel like a proper treat.

1. One-pot pasta

This one’s a lifesaver on busy travel days. Just pasta, a jar of sauce and whatever vegetables you’ve got knocking about, all in one pan. Stir in a tin of chopped tomatoes or a dollop of cream cheese to make it feel more substantial and you’ve got a filling dinner with barely any washing up.

2. Foil-wrapped campfire parcels

There’s nothing quite like the smell of dinner cooking over a campfire. Wrap fish, sausages or vegetables in foil with a splash of oil and some seasoning, then let the fire do the work. Simple, satisfying and almost no cleanup afterwards.

3. Breakfast burritos

Perfect for early starts, scrambled eggs, cheese and whatever else you fancy, all wrapped up in a tortilla. Easy to eat with your hands if you’re heading straight out for a walk.

4. Loaded jacket potatoes

Cook them in foil over the fire or on a portable stove, then pile on cheese, beans or soured cream. It feels far more indulgent than the effort it actually takes.

5. Campsite quesadillas

Tortillas, cheese and leftover fillings, folded and toasted in a pan, make a brilliant lunch that’s ready in minutes.

None of these recipes need much more than a pan, a bit of foil and a few good ingredients, so there’s no excuse for a dull dinner on your next trip. Give one a go and you might just find it becomes a regular part of your caravan holiday routine.

Image credits: Pixabay

Electric cars and caravan holidays help cut staycation costs

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Staying in the UK for holidays doesn’t have to mean compromising on adventure, and if you’re looking to make your money stretch further, the way you travel could make a real difference. New analysis from caravan insurance specialists The Insurance Emporium suggests that pairing an electric vehicle (EV) with a touring caravan could be one of the most cost-effective ways to get away this year.

Caravanning costs far less than a hotel stay

For a family of four spending a week in Cornwall, a hotel stay comes to somewhere between £1,700 and £2,400, once accommodation, eating out and extras are added up. A touring caravan holiday works out at £600 to £1,035, thanks to cheaper pitch fees, home-cooked meals and lower travel costs.

EVs can shrink your fuel bill too

Driving an EV costs around 8p per mile, dropping to as little as 3p per mile if you charge overnight on the right tariff. Compare that with 15 to 20p per mile for petrol and the difference over a week’s driving is considerable.

David Bird, caravan insurance expert at The Insurance Emporium, said: “As more people choose to holiday in the UK, many are looking for ways to make their money go further. Combining an electric car with a caravan holiday can be a cost-effective option, particularly when you factor in lower fuel costs and the flexibility of self-catering.” 

He added: “However, it’s important to plan ahead, especially when towing a caravan, as charging stops and reduced charge range can significantly impact journey times.”

A few tips before you set off

With a bit of planning, an EV and caravan combination could be the key to a great value holiday. Key things to remember include:

  • Plan charging stops in advance for longer journeys.
  • Check your vehicle’s towing capacity before travelling.
  • Look for campsites with EV charging facilities.
  • Make the most of self-catering to help cut food costs.

Image credits: Pixabay

How to choose the right campsite for your first solo trip

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Setting off on your first solo trip is exciting, but picking the right campsite can make all the difference between feeling relaxed and feeling a little uneasy. A bit of research beforehand goes a long way towards making that first trip a good one.

Start with reviews

Recent reviews are one of the best ways to get a feel for a site before you arrive. Look out for comments on safety and how welcoming the site feels to solo travellers, rather than focusing on facilities alone.

Consider the size and setting

Smaller, well-established sites often feel friendlier for a first solo trip than larger, more anonymous ones. A site tucked into a village or near local amenities can also mean you’re never too far from people if you need help or simply fancy some company.

Check for good lighting and secure access

Sites with clear lighting around communal areas and a gated or monitored entrance tend to feel more secure in the evenings. It’s worth checking this before booking, particularly if you’re travelling outside peak season when sites may be quieter.

Look for a mix of fellow campers

Sites that attract a range of visitors, including families, couples and other solo travellers, often feel more sociable than those aimed at one type of camper. A friendly atmosphere can make a real difference to how confident you feel.

Take your time choosing and don’t be afraid to move on if a site doesn’t feel right once you arrive. The right campsite can turn a first solo trip into the start of many more adventures.

Image credits: Pixabay

The summer driving mistakes that could land you a hefty fine

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Warm weather and open roads make summer the perfect time for a caravan or motorhome holiday, but a few common mistakes could turn your trip into a costly one. Specialist motor insurance experts at Keith Michaels have highlighted the summer driving mistakes most likely to catch motorists and the fines that come with them.

Small mistakes, real consequences

Some of the most common summer habits carry fines of up to £100:

When it gets more serious

Other habits carry considerably steeper penalties, over £1,000:

  • Wearing a hat or headwear that blocks your vision or affects your driving.
  • Driving with a dirty windscreen, which can seriously reduce visibility in bright sunshine and in serious cases lead to fines of up to £5,000 or a driving ban.

Towing your caravan safely

For anyone planning a caravan or motorhome trip, one rule matters more than most. Exceeding your vehicle’s legal towing limit can reduce control and create a genuine safety risk. If your setup is found to be unsafe, you could face three penalty points and a fine of up to £2,500 under Rule 98 of the Highway Code, so it’s always worth double-checking your vehicle’s towing capacity before you set off.

The bigger risks

A handful of mistakes carry the most serious consequences of all:

  • Wearing sunglasses at night, up to £2,500.
  • Drink driving, up to £2,500, alongside a possible ban or criminal charges.
  • Driving with unsecured pets, up to £5,000.
  • Driving while impaired by hay fever medication, which carries unlimited fines and, in serious cases, a driving ban or prison sentence.

Plan for a stress-free trip

Whether you’re heading off on a UK road trip or towing your caravan abroad, a little preparation goes a long way. Check your vehicle, secure your load and know the rules before you set off, and you’ll be far more likely to enjoy a trouble-free summer on the road.

Image credits: Pixabay

Sleep expert reveals the 7 camping mistakes parents get wrong

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There’s nothing quite like a family camping trip, until nobody in the tent can sleep. As more of us are heading outdoors this summer, sleep therapist Sam Sadighi of Get Laid Beds and founder of Easy Sleep Solutions has identified the seven most common sleep mistakes families make and how to fix them.

1. Assuming tired kids will sleep anywhere

A busy day outdoors doesn’t guarantee an easy bedtime. Excitement and unfamiliar surroundings can keep children more alert than expected. Sticking to their usual bedtime routine, a familiar story, teddy or pyjamas, helps signal it’s time to settle.

2. Pitching the tent in the wrong spot

Sam explains: “Pitching near toilets, communal areas, footpaths or other busy camping spots can expose you to people walking past throughout the night.” Choose somewhere flat, dry and away from foot traffic, and consider where the morning sun will hit too.

3. Over-inflating the air bed

A firmer air bed can create pressure points and offer less insulation from the cold ground. A little give makes for a more comfortable night and an insulated sleeping mat underneath matters more than firmness alone.

4. Forgetting the ground steals body heat

The ground draws heat away from the body quickly, so insulation underneath is just as important as a warm sleeping bag on top.

5. Eating a big meal right before bed

A large or sugary meal too close to bedtime can leave children feeling uncomfortable and overly energetic. Aim for a filling meal a couple of hours before bed, with a light snack later if needed.

6. Ignoring the early morning light

Tents let in far more light than bedrooms, waking children earlier than you’d like. Eye masks, blackout layers and positioning sleeping bags away from the entrance can help delay the wake-up call.

7. Trying to make the tent completely silent

An unfamiliar environment can make children more alert, so total silence isn’t always the answer. Familiar background noise, like a white-noise track used at home, can help some children settle.

Sleep therapist’s camping checklist

  • Pack something familiar, like a favourite teddy, blanket or bedtime book.
  • Stick to the usual routine of washing, pyjamas, story and lights out.
  • Insulate underneath with a sleeping mat rather than relying on the air bed alone.
  • Ventilate the tent to avoid stuffiness and reduce condensation.
  • Keep tomorrow’s clothes nearby to avoid rummaging through cold bags.
  • Make one final toilet trip before settling down for the night.
  • Pack earplugs for adults, useful for snoring neighbours and early risers.

A little planning before lights out can be the difference between a restless night and a proper night’s sleep under canvas.

Image credits: Pixabay

From Cornwall to the Highlands: the UK road trips Brits want to visit most

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More of us are choosing to take our caravan holidays closer to home this year and these days that means getting behind the wheel. New research from holiday provider Away Resorts reveals that UK staycations are now neck and neck with holidays abroad, with road trips playing a growing part in that change.

Staycations are catching up with holidays abroad

The survey found that 46 per cent of Brits would now choose a UK staycation as their ideal trip, compared with 45 per cent who’d opt for a holiday overseas. Road trips in particular are having a moment, with TikTok searches for the term rising by 200 per cent in August alone.

The UK’s most in-demand road trip destinations

The data from this research reveals the regions Brits are most keen to explore by car are:

  • Scottish Highlands
  • North Wales
  • Cornwall
  • Lake District
  • Northumberland
  • Peak District
  • South Wales
  • Cotswolds
  • Snowdonia
  • Devon

The Scottish Highlands take the top spot, thanks to its rugged landscapes and winding driving routes, followed closely by North Wales and Cornwall.

The most popular named routes

When it comes to specific routes, Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way tops the list, stretching around 6,165 miles along the country’s western coastline and taking in highlights like the Cliffs of Moher and Connemara National Park. Dorset’s Jurassic Coast follows in second place, a shorter 96-mile route ideal for a weekend break, with Scotland’s North Coast 500 completing the top three.

Why road trips are having a moment

Kate Watts, spokesperson for Away Resorts, said: “Road trips offer something that a traditional holiday abroad can’t: the freedom to explore at your own pace and discover multiple destinations all in one trip. From stunning coastlines and quaint villages to countryside escapes, the UK and Ireland have an incredible variety of landscapes to explore by car.”

Whether it’s a weekend along the Jurassic Coast or a longer tour of the Highlands, there’s never been a better excuse to plan your next road trip closer to home.

Image credits: Pixabay

The best European countries for a driving holiday, ranked

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If you’re planning a caravan or motorhome trip across Europe this year, the country you choose can make or break the experience. New research from Hagerty UK has scored European countries across eight metrics, from road quality and fuel costs to sunshine hours and race tracks, to determine which offers the best experience behind the wheel.

The top three countries

Here’s how the leading countries scored overall:

  1. Spain, scoring 70.07, with 7.5 hours of average daily sunshine and fuel at £1.24 per litre.
  2. Portugal, scoring 65.31, with the best road quality, at 8.64 out of ten.
  3. Sweden, scoring 64.03, with just four toll roads and 11 emission zones nationwide.

Spain came out on top thanks to a strong all-round package. Alongside its sunshine and fuel prices, it boasts 538,577 km of road network and hosts more FIA racing events than any other European country in 2026, spread across 15 circuits. 

Portugal followed closely, offering the most sunshine of the top ten and the fewest emission zones to navigate, while Sweden rounded out the top three with cheap fuel and a road network that winds through forests and past lakes.

Exploring in your motorhome

Mark Roper, managing director at Hagerty UK, said: “We always encourage our members to drive and have designed a range of events, tours and experiences to help inspire them to do just that. Our latest research tells drivers where to go and why, offering some great places to get out and drive to, particularly useful as we approach the summer holiday season … Wherever you decide to go, we hope you feel inspired to explore some of our suggestions.”

Whether you’re touring Spain’s coastal roads or exploring closer to home, there’s no shortage of great driving to be had this summer.

Image credits: Pixabay

5 weekend-friendly DIY projects to improve your motorhome

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A motorhome should feel like home from the moment you step inside, but small niggles can chip away at that feeling over time. The good news is you don’t need any real DIY experience to fix them. These five projects can each be done in a weekend and every one makes a noticeable difference on the road.

Add extra storage where you least expect it

Motorhomes rarely have enough storage, but there’s usually more space than you think. Slim shelving units fit neatly beside cupboards and over-door pocket organisers make great use of otherwise wasted space. A magnetic strip inside a cupboard door is also an easy way to keep knives or metal utensils secure while driving.

Upgrade your lighting

Swapping old bulbs for LED strip lighting is one of the easiest upgrades you can make. It’s cheap, uses far less power and can completely change the feel of your living space in the evening. Battery-powered options are ideal if you’d rather avoid any wiring.

Fit blackout blinds or curtains

Standard curtains often let in more light than you’d like, especially during summer mornings. Blackout blinds or thermal curtains are straightforward to fit and help with both light and temperature, keeping the space cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

Create a proper charging station

With so many devices to keep charged, a dedicated charging point saves a lot of hassle. A small USB hub mounted near a seating area, paired with a cable tidy, keeps everything organised and avoids cables trailing across the floor.

Refresh your soft furnishings

New cushion covers, a fresh throw or a patterned tablecloth can transform how a motorhome feels inside, without any real DIY skill required. It’s a small change that makes the space feel more like home.

A weekend, a few tools and a bit of enthusiasm are all it takes to make your motorhome feel brand new. Pick one project to start with and the rest can wait for your next free weekend.

Image credits: Pixabay