EV drivers can save up to £900 annually – a big gamechanger for caravanners

Posted by

Electric vehicles may have a reputation for being expensive, but new figures from Leasing Options suggest many drivers could be missing out on significant savings, especially those planning road trips or touring holidays.

With the right charging setup, drivers could cut their annual “fuel” costs by hundreds of pounds. A typical petrol car costs just over £1,000 a year to run based on average mileage. By comparison, an electric vehicle charged at home on a standard tariff could reduce that figure to around £538 and even further to as little as £136 a year when using a smart off-peak tariff. 

That’s a potential saving of nearly £900 annually. For long-distance driving, this difference is especially important.

Mike Thompson, Chief Operating Officer of Leasing Options, said, “The idea that EVs are expensive to run is outdated. When you look at how people actually charge their cars – mostly at home, often overnight and increasingly on smart tariffs – the savings are undeniable. Even with rising energy prices, EVs remain dramatically cheaper to ‘fuel’ than petrol or diesel cars.”

The key lies in how and where drivers charge. While public ultra-rapid chargers can be expensive, home charging, particularly overnight on smart tariffs, offers dramatically lower costs. The data from Leasing Options reveals that some tariffs provide electricity at around 7p per kWh, making it far cheaper than both petrol and standard electricity rates.

For touring enthusiasts and caravanners considering a switch to electric, this could be a game changer. Lower running costs, combined with quieter driving and growing charging infrastructure are making EVs an increasingly practical option for UK-based travel.

“As cost-of-living pressures continue into 2026, understanding the reality of EV running costs could help households save hundreds or even thousands of pounds each year,” Mr Thompson added. Whether it’s a weekend touring trip or a longer staycation, understanding the true cost of running an EV may help more drivers rethink how they hit the road.

Image: Unsplash

Global road trips surge in popularity as UK travellers plan big adventures

Posted by

The classic road trip is making a strong comeback, with more travellers looking beyond traditional holidays in favour of long-distance driving adventures.

New data from Leasing Options shows searches for road trips have surged in recent months, with interest in iconic journeys like Route 66 rising by 26 per cent. The trend highlights a growing appetite for freedom, flexibility and scenic travel – something that increasingly appeals to caravanners and touring enthusiasts alike.

Among the most sought-after routes is the Blue Ridge Parkway in the United States, known for its sweeping views across the Appalachian Mountains. Route 66, often dubbed the “Mother Road”, continues to capture imaginations with its cross-country journey from Chicago to California. Meanwhile, the Pacific Coast Highway offers a dramatic coastal experience, and Canada’s Icefields Parkway provides a shorter but equally scenic drive through the Rockies. 

But while the appeal is clear, planning is key, especially for those heading overseas.

“To help minimise the risk of accidents, make regular rest stops part of your journey,” said Mike Thompson, chief operations officer at Leasing Options. He advises on building regular rest stops into your journey to avoid fatigue, particularly on longer routes. “Taking your time and resting properly will help you stay alert, drive more safely and enjoy the trip much more.”

For caravanners used to touring the UK, these trips may require a bit more preparation, but the rewards are significant. Expansive landscapes, iconic landmarks and the freedom to travel at your own pace continue to draw people towards the open road.

As interest continues to grow, it’s clear that road trips, whether close to home or across continents, are firmly back on the travel agenda.

Image: Unsplash

New EU pet travel rules: What caravanners need to know before heading abroad

Posted by

Caravanners and holidaymakers planning to take their pets to Europe this year will need to check new travel rules, following changes introduced by the EU last month.

The updated regulations affect non-commercial travel with dogs, cats and ferrets from Great Britain into EU countries. While trips with your furry friends are still very much possible, the changes mean extra preparation is now essential before setting off.

One of the biggest updates is that EU pet passports can no longer be used by GB residents for travel into the EU. These passports will now only be issued to people who permanently live in EU countries, meaning many UK travellers will need an alternative.

Instead, pet owners travelling from England, Scotland or Wales will need to obtain an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) before each trip. Without the correct documentation, travellers risk being turned away at the border or facing delays.

There is some good news for those planning extended trips. While AHCs are still single-use documents for entry into the EU, they can now be used for onward travel within the EU and for returning to Great Britain for up to six months, provided rabies vaccinations remain valid.

Other rule changes may also catch travellers out. There is now a limit of five pets per private vehicle when travelling into the EU, rather than five per person. Additionally, if someone else is travelling with your pet, written permission from the owner is required.

Rules can still vary between EU countries, so checking the specific entry requirements for your destination is important.

For caravanners who enjoy touring Europe with their pets, it’s necessary to plan ahead, check the latest rules and make sure all paperwork is in place before you go.

Image: Unsplash

Planning a seaside break? Dog bans return to UK beaches from 1 May

Posted by

Dog owners planning seaside caravan holidays this summer are being urged to check local beach rules now, as seasonal restrictions come into force from 1 May.

Many UK beaches introduce dog bans or restrictions between May and September, aimed at protecting water quality and ensuring beaches remain clean and safe for visitors during peak months. According to Chris Maxted, director of dog safety gate company Dog-G8, these rules are often enforced under Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs), which give councils the authority to manage dog access.

“Seasonal dog bans on UK beaches are a practical measure to protect water quality and maintain the Blue Flag status that many coastal areas value,” says Mr Maxted. “Dog fouling and urine can have a significant impact on water quality, making it unsuitable for swimming.”

While some beaches enforce full bans during the summer, others operate partial restrictions. These can include requiring dogs to be kept on leads or limiting access to certain areas such as promenades. Assistance dogs are exempt and allowed year-round.

Dog owners who ignore restrictions may face an on-the-spot fine of £100, which can escalate to as much as £1,000 if the case goes to court.

With regulations varying widely between locations, checking ahead is essential. Local council websites typically provide the most up-to-date information on restrictions and dog-friendly areas.

For those looking to avoid the hassle altogether, there are still plenty of beaches across England that welcome dogs all year round. Devon leads the way with 79 dog-friendly beaches, followed by Cornwall with 60. Other popular regions include Northumberland and Dorset, both offering 37 dog-friendly locations.

With about a week to go before restrictions begin, planning ahead can help ensure a stress-free coastal visit, for both you and your furry friend.

Image: Unsplash

Nine New Forest campsites named among UK’s top 100 for 2026

Posted by

Camping New Forest is celebrating a major achievement after nine of its campsites were named in the Practical Caravan and Practical Motorhome Top 100 Sites Guide 2026.

The annual guide, voted for by members of the public, highlights the UK’s most popular and highly rated campsites based on genuine visitor feedback. This year, nine Camping New Forest locations were recognised in the South of England category, alongside sister site Long Meadow.

The featured sites include Roundhill, Ashurst, Aldridge Hill, Setthorns, Hollands Wood, Ocknell, Longbeech and Holmsley campsites. Notably, Longbeech Campsite also picked up the award for “Best Adults-Only Site in the South of England”, underlining its appeal for those seeking a quieter getaway.

Sister site Long Meadow Campsite also received strong praise from visitors, with one reviewer describing it as “an amazing site in the heart of the New Forest” – a sentiment that reflects the area’s enduring popularity among campers and touring enthusiasts.

Published by two of the UK’s leading outdoor leisure titles, Practical Caravan and Practical Motorhome, the Top 100 Sites Guide is widely regarded as a trusted benchmark within the camping community. 

Denis Dooley, CEO of Camping New Forest, said the team was “absolutely delighted” to see nine sites included, adding that the recognition reflects the hard work that goes into delivering memorable stays for visitors.

Located in one of the UK’s most cherished national parks, Camping New Forest sites offer direct access to walking and cycling routes, abundant wildlife and peaceful outdoor escapes.

With award-winning credentials and stunning natural surroundings, these campsites are set to remain firm favourites for 2026 and beyond.

Image: Supplied

Spring sunshine sparks surge in caravan sales and UK holiday bookings

Posted by

The arrival of warmer weather this spring appears to be doing more than lifting spirits – it’s also driving a noticeable rise in caravan sales and UK holiday bookings.

Recent industry figures from Salop Leisure suggest growing demand for caravans, motorhomes and staycations, as more people look to make the most of brighter days and plan trips closer to home. The retailer has reported a 12 per cent increase in caravan sales compared to last year, alongside higher enquiry levels and increased visitor numbers at showgrounds.

“There is so much doom and gloom in the news at the moment, so we encourage you to take your mind off it and start planning your UK holidays,” Ed Glover, head of marketing at Salop Leisure, said. “Whether you are interested in touring or holiday home ownership, our team can provide all the advice you need.”

This trend is mirrored in the holiday park sector, where bookings for caravan sites and glamping stays are also on the up. This rise in bookings year-on-year suggests that the appeal of flexible, UK-based breaks continues to strengthen.

The shift comes at a time when many travellers are seeking more certainty and control over their holiday plans. With ongoing concerns around travel disruption and rising costs, caravanning offers an alternative that allows holidaymakers to plan trips on their own terms.

There are also wider indicators that the staycation market is gaining momentum. According to Visit Britain, an estimated 12.5 million Brits were planning an overnight trip within the UK over the Easter period, up from 10.6 million the previous year.

The recent spell of sunshine has likely played a role in prompting early bookings, encouraging people to start thinking ahead to summer. It also highlights how seasonal shifts can influence travel behaviour, particularly in a market where spontaneity and short breaks are key.

As the UK holiday season gathers pace, the early signs point to another strong year for caravanning, with more travellers embracing the simplicity of packing up and heading off, no airport required.

Image: Unsplash

UK drivers increasingly accepting of EVs, report finds

Posted by

If you’re looking for a new towcar ahead of the summer’s touring season, have you thought about going electric? According to one new study, the chances are you might have, as more drivers in the UK are now considering these options when looking for a new vehicle.

Electric vehicles (EVs) often make great choices for towcars. Their weighty batteries provide a low centre of gravity that offers high stability, while high torque and good acceleration make for a good towing platform.

Until now, these benefits have been countered by concerns such as range anxiety and limited charging points. But a new study from the AA suggests these worries are not as great as they once were.

The organisation’s latest EV Readiness Index found that opinion towards these vehicles is improving, with better affordability for used models being one of the biggest pluses. It noted that in the last quarter, used EVs are around ten per cent cheaper than equivalent petrol-powered cars.

However, there are still challenges to overcome. Around a third of Brits (30 per cent) still say they feel less confident about driving an EV compared with petrol or diesel cars, while 55 per cent say the prospect of increased vehicle excise duty on the category may put them off.

Edmund King, AA president, said: “Our AA UK EV Readiness Index shows that conditions for switching to electric cars are improving, with cheaper used EVs opening the door for more drivers. But the reality is that the transition remains fragile.”

He added that mixed messaging from the government could harm confidence just as the market is starting to mature. He therefore called for “clearer long-term policy signals and better information for drivers” in order to keep momentum towards EVs going and help individuals make an informed choice about whether to switch.

 

Image credit: Unsplash/CHUTTERSNAP

The UK cities where outdoor picnics are easiest to enjoy

Posted by

With longer days and the first signs of spring appearing, many people are looking forward to simple outdoor pleasures again, including picnics in parks, riverside lunches and relaxed afternoons in the sunshine.

A new study from campervan rental platform RVezy has identified the best cities in the UK where picnicking is easiest. It analysed seven factors including average temperatures, sunshine hours, rainfall, park availability, safety levels, air quality and distance to green spaces.

Milton Keynes tops the list

Milton Keynes ranked first overall thanks largely to its abundance of parks. The city recorded 14.75 parks per 10,000 residents, the highest figure in the study, and residents typically live just 314 metres from their nearest green space. Low rainfall and easy park access also helped secure the top spot.

Canterbury came second, performing particularly well for weather conditions. The Kent city ranked third for average temperatures and fifth for sunshine hours, alongside strong safety scores and good park availability.

Oxford placed third, with its historic parks and riverside green spaces contributing to high rankings for accessibility and moderate weather.

Coastal cities also perform well

Chelmsford and Southend-on-Sea completed the top five. Chelmsford benefits from relatively low rainfall and strong safety levels, while Southend offers some of the most reliable weather for outdoor gatherings. The seaside city ranked first for lowest annual rainfall and third for sunshine hours.

Other cities making the top ten include Cambridge, Worcester, Exeter, Portsmouth and Norwich, all combining favourable weather with accessible green spaces. Portsmouth stood out in particular as the sunniest location in the study, recording nearly 2,000 sunshine hours annually.

“Picnics are one of the simplest ways people connect with the outdoors,” says Michael McNaught from RVezy. “When parks are plentiful and easy to reach, people are far more likely to enjoy them.”

As spring arrives, these findings might help you plan your campervan getaway.



NC500 named among the world’s best road trips

Posted by

One of Scotland’s top spots for caravanners and motorhome enthusiasts has been named among the world’s best road trip destinations in a new study.

The North Coast 500 (NC500), a 500-mile circular route taking in some of the country’s most spectacular coastline, joined the likes of America’s Route 66 and Pacific Coast Highway in the list, which was produced by Leasing Options. The research evaluated a range of factors to come up with its top picks, including reviews, sights, social media interest, the number of stops and affordability.

Road trips are set to be in high demand this year, with Leasing Options noting there has been a 26 per cent increase in internet searches in the past three months.

Scotland’s NC500 was the only UK entry on the list, coming in eighth overall and the second-highest in Europe. All the top four were in North America, with Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina taking the top spot ahead of the famous Route 66, Pacific Coast Highway and Canada’s Icefield Parkway in the Rockies, while Australia’s Great Ocean Road rounded out the top five.

When it comes to the most scenic trips, the NC500 performed even better, ranking fourth overall. However, caravanners or motorhomers looking to head a little further from home may consider Italy’s Stelvio Pass or Germany’s Romantic Road, which were first and second respectively.

Regardless of whether you’re staying at home or heading further afield, Leasing Options’ chief operating officer Mike Thompson has some advice to offer, including making sure you have the right insurance for your vehicle and are familiar with the local rules of the road.

“To help minimise the risk of accidents, make regular rest stops part of your journey. Long drives can be tiring, and even a short break to stretch your legs, eat, or recharge can make a big difference to your concentration behind the wheel,” he said. “Taking your time and resting properly will help you stay alert, drive more safely and enjoy the trip much more.”

New Forest campsites welcome guests in 2026 reopening

Posted by

Caravanners looking for a last-minute getaway to the south of England this Easter have been given a boost with the news that a popular range of campsites in the New Forest are reopening for the season after a winter of renovations.

The ten sites of the Camping New Forest family are welcoming guests from March 26th, with some of the locations featuring refreshed facilities and more family-friendly activities.

Across all sites, eco-friendly initiatives such as improved recycling and water saving systems have been implemented to reflect Camping New Forest’s commitment to sustainability, while upgraded showers, expanded play areas and additional glamping options have been added in several locations.

Denis Dooley, CEO of Camping New Forest, said: “We’re expecting another busy season as more people holiday closer to home. Investing in our sites helps us improve facilities, protect the environment, support local communities, and deliver educational experiences for visitors of all ages.”

As well as camping options and caravan pitches in the heart of one of England’s prettiest forest landscapes, visitors to the sites will have the opportunity to learn more about the local area and the unique environment of the New Forest in a series of guided activities.

Offerings include guided daytime and evening walks that aim to showcase the National Park’s habitats and wildlife. These include twilight bat spotting and listening for tawny owls and nightjars during summer nights. Amongst the other activities are short, family-friendly wildlife rambles and drop-in activity sessions at selected campsites.

Camping New Forest’s locations include Aldridge Hill, Ashurst, Denny Wood, Hollands Wood, Holmsley, Longbeech, Matley Wood, Ocknell, Roundhill and Setthorns. Denny Wood is reopening after a year-long break, offering a back-to-basics camping experience within the New Forest National Park.

Image credit: Camping New Forest

Spring sunshine sparks surge in campervan and caravan demand

Posted by

The arrival of early spring is already fuelling a surge in demand for campervans, motorhomes and caravans across the UK.

New data from online marketplace Gumtree reveals a 133 per cent increase in interest in leisure vehicles since January, with demand growing four times faster than the wider vehicle market, which has seen a 33 per cent rise over the same period.

The figures suggest Britain’s road-trip season is starting earlier than usual, with interest in touring vehicles already at its highest level since September.

Road trip season begins

Campervans and motorhomes continue to appeal to travellers seeking flexibility, allowing holidaymakers to explore coastal routes, national parks and countryside destinations without relying on hotels or holiday rentals.

This way of travelling is becoming increasingly attractive, as 41 per cent of UK adults say the cost of accommodation is the biggest barrier to taking a domestic holiday, according to Gumtree’s data.

Demand is expected to rise even further in the coming weeks, with enquiries forecast to double again by April as more people begin planning spring and summer touring trips.

Strong interest in coastal regions

Unlike the wider car market – where demand is typically centred around major cities – interest in campervans and caravans is strongest in areas with easy access to the countryside and coast.

Regions currently seeing the biggest spikes in demand include:

  • Fife
  • County Antrim
  • Essex
  • Lancashire
  • West Yorkshire

These areas offer convenient access to popular touring routes and outdoor destinations.

Britain’s most wanted campervans

The data also highlighted models attracting the most attention from buyers. The Volkswagen Transporter ranks as the most in-demand campervan on the platform, generating more than 74,000 views, followed by the Ford Transit and Fiat Ducato. These vehicles remain popular due to their reliability and adaptability for camper conversions.

Louis Maxwell, motoring expert at Gumtree, said the early surge reflects strong demand for self-contained travel.

“The first weekend in March recorded the highest level of campervan and motorhome demand on Gumtree since September,” he said. “With availability currently strong, buyers are encouraged to start their search early before competition intensifies as spring progresses.”

Listings for leisure vehicles have also increased, with supply rising 22 per cent since the start of the year as sellers prepare for the peak touring season.

As daylight hours lengthen and temperatures rise, the coming weeks are expected to mark the busiest buying period of the year for campervans and caravans.

Image: Unsplash

Simple driving tricks that could help cut fuel costs

Posted by

With fuel prices expected to rise alongside increasing oil costs, motorists may soon be feeling the pressure at the pumps. But according to one motoring expert, small changes to everyday driving habits could help drivers save money – including something as simple as opening the car windows.

Mike Thompson, chief operating officer at Leasing Options, advises drivers to focus on improving efficiency to reduce fuel consumption.

“Cutting your fuel costs doesn’t have to mean reducing the number of journeys you take,” he explains. “There are numerous ways drivers can safely and efficiently lower fuel consumption.”

Smooth driving makes a difference

One of the biggest factors affecting fuel economy is how a vehicle is driven. Aggressive habits such as rapid acceleration, speeding and harsh braking can significantly increase fuel use. Instead, drivers should aim for smooth acceleration and steady speeds.

“Maintaining a consistent pace and anticipating traffic conditions helps your vehicle run more efficiently,” Mr Thompson says.

For longer motorway or dual carriageway journeys, cruise control can improve fuel efficiency by keeping speeds steady. Reducing unnecessary engine idling is also important. Mr Thompson recommends switching off the engine if you expect to be stationary for more than 30 seconds, as idling burns fuel without moving the vehicle.

Skip the air conditioning

While air conditioning can make summer drives more comfortable, it can also increase fuel consumption.

“When you run air conditioning, your vehicle’s engine has to work harder to power the compressor,” Mr Thompson explains. “This can reduce fuel efficiency by around ten to 20 per cent, depending on the vehicle and outside temperature.”

For shorter journeys or moderate weather, simply opening the windows instead of using the air conditioning can help reduce fuel use.

Compare fuel prices

Fuel prices can vary significantly between stations, even within the same area. Using fuel price comparison apps or websites can help motorists quickly find the cheapest option nearby.

With many caravanners and motorhome owners preparing for spring and summer trips, adopting a few simple habits could help keep fuel costs under control, without having to cut back on travel plans.


Image: Unsplash