Nick’s News – Certificated locations, popular floorplans and bamboo crockery

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Nick HardingNick’s News – Nick Harding is an expert in all things motorhomes, caravans and camping. Each week, Nick explores products, locations, holiday ideas and essential community information on our behalf – It’s a Hard-ing Life for Nick, but here is what he found this week.

My Caravan Week

April 12th in England and I was out like a shot! Off to the Cotswolds for the week. I must admit to having had some feelings of anxiety – and was fully expecting a rammed Burford Caravan and Motorhome Club Site. In fact, it was at most half-full for the first two days.

I also had two nights on a certificated location – a small site without additional infrastructure – Wolds End, a short walk into Chipping Campden. No such amenities here, of course, but again it was one occupant short of its full five-van capacity on both nights.

In the news

National Camping and Caravanning Week – a date to save?

May 31st to June 6th are dates worth noting, as it will be National Camping and Caravanning Week. This little sideline offered by the Camping and Caravanning Club is happening… well, everywhere really.

In truth, it’s a way of celebrating the caravanning lifestyle, and highlighting to others a bit of what it’s all about. But, if you’re new to the caravan or motorhome lifestyle, it’s well worth keeping an eye out for specific events near you. Indeed, this year there’s a specific event aimed at newcomers at the Club’s own site at Drayton Manor in Staffordshire.

Caravan crush

Swift Sprite Super Major 4SB – a very model of a modern British caravan

Caravanning-for-the-masses brand Sprite has a new layout for this season. Unsurprisingly, Swift has gone for a transverse island bed with full-width end washroom. Well, it is the floorplan everyone’s clamouring for at the moment. Everyone? I actually have a feeling it’s more coveted by couples than those who need a full four-berth.

It’s also in an extra-wide body, meaning it’s even roomier. Have you noticed, too, how Sprites are inching ever more upmarket? The Super Major includes as standard such luxuries as GRP-skinned wood-free bodywork, front sunroof, microwave oven, DAB radio, alloy wheels, AKS 3004 stabiliser and Al-Ko Secure wheel lock receiver, Ecocamel showerhead, and Duvalay mattress. I’m sure you get the picture.

Three good: Popular floorplan in extra-wide setting, spec per pound and general Sprite popularity
Two bad: Kitchen lacks a bit of kit and a sub-160kg payload
Perfect for… the layout of the day, but keenly priced
Consider also: Adria Adora Isonzo, Bailey Phoenix+ 644, Coachman Acadia 875 Xcel

Gadget envyNick's eclectic caravan crockery collection

Crockery – bamboo shoots but melamine still scores

How often do you change your crockery? For me, it’s almost every year, but that’s arguably more through accident than design. As a VW camper owner, I’ve got my de rigueur campervan mugs, bowls and plates, but keep their use to a bit of a minimum because I don’t want too much wear and tear.

Hence, it makes sense to grab a spare set, usually when I’m shopping for something else. I’ve also tried various specialist melamine crockery cleaners, but by far the most effective product here is a bleach solution, used as sparingly as I can get away with.

More recently, I’ve been sampling bamboo crockery, which majors on being more environmentally friendly. I must admit, though, I don’t always like the actual feel of the products. I do prefer camping gear in these situations as it weighs less, too. As ever, I’d be happy to hear your advice.

Looking ahead to National Camping and Caravanning Week 2021

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The date for this year’s National Camping and Caravanning Week (NCCW) has been announced and will be held from May 31st to June 6th.

Celebrated annually, the event is hosted by the Camping and Caravanning Club, which allocates specific themes to focus on.

For the 2021 edition, the themes are newcomers and freedom, which are particularly pertinent in a world that has been restricted so long and a market that is welcoming many newbies to camping and caravanning.

Michelle Jewell, of the Camping and Caravanning Club, said: “We’re confident this year is going to be a great one for the camping and caravanning industry, as people look to enjoy some much-needed time away from home in the fresh air.

“National Camping and Caravanning Week is all about celebrating everything to do with our great pastime, and because in the past year we have seen so many people enjoy camping for the first time – or rediscover it – we want to provide lots of helpful tips and inspiration for future camping adventures.”

Caravanners can use the event to gain expert knowledge from the Club’s technical team; get involved with competitions to win kit and accessories; or register for a camping experience at the Drayton Manor site in Staffordshire.

Aimed at families who are new to camping, the Drayton Manor opportunity will be a great introduction for those who have never stayed under canvas or in a caravan before.

The Camping and Caravanning Club was founded in 1901 and has grown to have more than half a million members.

Its calendar of events throughout the year helps to make staying in the great outdoors more accessible for everyone.

The Club has been running NCCW since the year 2000 and it has proved popular with caravanners.

Travelworld practices what it preaches, offering staff use of a motorhome

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A motorhome dealership is offering staff the use of a leisure vehicle for getaways this summer as it helps its customers staycation in the wake of the pandemic.

Erwin Hymer Centre Travelworld has invested in a HYMER T-Class S 685 for employee use, responding to the lack of certainty around foreign holidays.

The dealership, which is based in Staffordshire, already has a Carado I447 that the 68 members of staff can take on adventures, but has introduced a second leisure vehicle to the scheme in light of anticipated demand.

Ross Edwards, managing director of Travelworld, said: “As perks go, I think the use of a top-class motorhome is pretty good.

“The Carado I447 has been available to staff for a number of years and has been very popular, so we thought we’d reward our employees for their hard work and dedication over the last 12 months by adding another vehicle for them to book.

Travelworld has been in the motorhome business for more than four decades and has continued to serve the leisure vehicle community despite not being able to open its showroom for the past 12 months.

Instead, staff have helped prospective buyers in Covid-safe ways, with January and February proving to be record-breaking sales months, as people look ahead to holidays as restrictions ease.

Mr Ross added: “Everyone needs a holiday and, with trips abroad looking doubtful at best, and the domestic holiday market seeing unprecedented demand, these motorhomes will give our staff the chance to explore Britain with their families in a safe and exciting way and at no cost.”

Travelworld staff that take their employer up on the generous offer of borrowing the HYMER T-Class S 685 will discover a face-to-face seating area, two rear single beds and an electric drop down double bed inside.

Caravan and Motorhome Club offers driving courses

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The Caravan and Motorhome Club is offering a selection of driving courses aimed at giving tourers peace of mind on the road.

Available at 14 locations across the UK, the Covid-secure courses encompass professional safety information and techniques for driving with a caravan or motorhome.

Running from now until October, the courses could be a good idea for anyone new to caravanning and unaware of what it entails.

They may also prove useful for caravanners that haven’t driven a leisure vehicle in a while and feel they would benefit from a refresher.

The selection of courses on offer include Practical Caravanning, Caravan Manoeuvring and Motorhome Manoeuvring, each of which take less than seven hours to complete.

Alternatively, there’s Practical Caravan Manoeuvring, which is aimed at newbies to caravanning and lasts ten hours split over two days.

Topics covered within the courses include manoeuvring; hitching and towing; safety checks; the laws around caravanning and motorhoming; and loading, along with its impact on towing.

Anyone keen to take one of The Club’s courses can sign up to participate at training centres in Askham Bryan, Darlington, Dumfries, Figheldean, Kettering, Llanelli, Llay, Macclesfield, Newark, Plumpton, West Bromwich, Winchester, Worcester or Stoke Climsland.

Prices start at £159 per person and include a copy of the Club’s Essential Guide to Touring, which retails at £16.

Those who complete one of the courses will also find it could have a positive impact on their insurance premium, with the Club offering a five per cent reduction on its own policies.

Harvey Alexander, director of marketing and membership services at the Caravan and Motorhome Club said: “We are delighted to be able to offer this excellent range of courses to new and seasoned tourers alike, as we know everyone is excited to get back out on the road.

“These Covid-secure courses provide great value for money and mean that people have the confidence to relax and enjoy their touring adventure with real peace of mind.”

 

 

Photo credit: Pexels/Kampus Production

Motorhome bookings to explore the North Coast 500 soar

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It’s no secret that staycations by motorhome are expected to be very popular post-lockdown, but one company has decided to delve deeper into the place most people want to explore in the coming months. GoBoony, a motorhome sharing platform inspired by Airbnb, conducted research into the destination the majority of its customers will be travelling to.

It discovered that 23 per cent of people departing on a motorhome holiday after April 26th are driving up to Scotland, with many of the motorhomes being bound for the North Coast 500 (NC500). This long-distance drive has often been described as Scotland’s answer to Route 66 and is a firm favourite with motorhome and caravan enthusiasts.

The satisfaction of a round trip

Starting in the city of Inverness, the NC500 crosses the country to Applecross, before heading up the west coast, taking in Gairloch, Ullapool and Lochinver. Venturing along the most northerly points of mainland Scotland, holidaymakers will enjoy the delights of Caithness and John o’ Groats, before returning south to Inverness.

Jake Stone, UK country manager at GoBoony, told CaravanTimes: “A round trip is very satisfying, which is why I believe the NC500 is one which has attracted a lot of attention from motorhome holidaymakers this summer. It is full of scenery – something we are all wanting a change of recently – spots of interest and adventure.

“The route gives holidaymakers so much variety. From beautiful towns, stunning coastlines and mountain backdrops to local, fresh produce, wildlife and history as rich and exciting as the landscape itself. On top of this, it is one that can be done within a reasonable amount of time too.”

GoBoony found that those making motorhome bookings with the express purpose of exploring the NC500 were scheduling ten days with their leisure vehicle. This is significantly longer than the average motorhome reservation, which is 7.1 days.

While advice from VisitScotland states that the 516-mile route can be completed in five to seven days, it’s nice to take it at a leisurely pace. Many of those hiring motorhomes may well also be factoring the journey to Inverness into the equation too.

Holidaymakers craving freedom

Caravan and motorhome sites across the UK are expected to be in high demand this summer, as lockdown measures are eased. This will make booking ahead essential, as individuals, couples and families look to escape their local areas after months of travel restrictions.

Mr Stone added: “People are craving more freedom, normality, and the open road – something a motorhome trip gives in abundance. Motorhomes are a fantastic holiday choice for those individuals and parties seeking a UK adventure without being amongst the hustle and bustle.

“Naturally socially-distanced by design, motorhomes are an inventive and fun way for Brits to travel and explore safely. Very few alternatives offer holidaymakers the same modern style, home comforts and appliances without being restricted to one location.”

 

 

Image reproduced with kind permission from GoBoony

Nick’s News – A return to touring, pop-up sites and motorhome accessories

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Nick HardingNick’s News – Nick Harding is an expert in all things motorhomes, caravans and camping. Each week, Nick explores products, locations, holiday ideas and essential community information on our behalf – It’s a Hard-ing Life for Nick, but here is what he found this week.

My motorhome week

I’m writing this just at the point that campsites in England are re-opening (April 12th). And I’m lucky enough to have booked pitches at the Caravan and Motorhome Club’s Site at Burford, as well as one of its Certificated Locations – Wold’s End – for a bit of touring in the Cotswolds.

Fortunately, I’m in a Bailey Adamo 69-4 motorhome, which I’m testing for the Caravan and Motorhome Club Magazine, so the ruling that sites can’t open their toilet block facilities isn’t going to be a particular issue.

It’s making me think though. I wonder if a possible future scenario is for campsites of a specific size – let’s say of 20 pitches or more, but that’s completely arbitrary – not to have any shared toilet and shower facilities at all. If it kept pitch prices down, there may be some merit for a network of sites offering minimal facilities that are also open to all-comers. I could see myself as a regular attendee. What do you think?

In the news

Popping up – Club sites

It seems the Caravan and Motorhome Club has beaten me to it as far as my comments above are concerned. Its announcement of two pop-up campsites – Beale Life Wildlife Park in Berkshire from July 26th to August 2nd, and Beaulieu Estate in the New Forest from July 2nd to 29th – are surely forerunners of what we can expect from many campsite operators as they attempt to meet the soaring demand from us staycationers.

Surely there will be more announcements along these lines. It’s also a reminder, if you need such a thing, that campsite pitches across the UK are booking up fast and supply is going to struggle to keep up with demand.

Hire an Auto-Trail here – or there

Manufacturer Auto-Trail has announced links with 27 companies offering its motorhomes for hire across the UK. It sounds like a great idea to me, because if you were thinking of buying a particular model it’s an ideal way to try it out before you take the plunge of purchasing.

It also means, if your heart was set on ordering a new Auto-Trail but have found stock simply isn’t going to be available in time – a situation that’s affected all manufacturers this year, for obvious Covid and Brexit reasons – you could still find yourself going away in an Auto-Trail for at least some sort of holiday.

Motorhome for me?

Sun Living V65SL – the cost of living?

Finding Adria’s Twin series van conversions a bit much? You can get back to basics with the same manufacturer’s Sun Living V models. Just as Auto-Trail has been blazing a, er, trail with its lower-priced Expeditions, so Adria has similar expectations for its Sun Living offerings.

Based on Fiat’s near-ubiquitous Ducato, the V65SL is the extra-long, 6.36m variant that offers not just a front lounge but also a rear twin-settee area – the latter could actually be left as a bedroom if required, with single beds or a double.

The only thing is, Adria can’t hammer down that price as much as we’d like. It starts at around £46,000, but there are a few options packs that will tempt you on towards the £50,000 hurdle – and I’d argue the £1,820 Pack 1’s cab air con, passenger air bag and cruise control make it an essential.

Three good: Adria build quality, rear seat/bed flexibility and smart pricing
Two bad: Price-creep options and sliding door is UK offside
Perfect for… full facilities in a van conversion, at a keener start price
Also consider: Auto-Trail Tribute Compact 680, Benivan 122, Roller Team Toleno L, Swift Select 184

Gadget envy

Multi-purpose shelters – the space savers?

As we emerge post-lockdown, we’re going to start wanting some items of kit previously never particularly thought of as essential, such as shelters, for example. They’re ideal for meeting other folk whilst still maintaining social distancing and keeping fresh air around you to a maximum. All this at the same time as offering some protection from the harsher elements.

Dometic’s £644 HUB is an inflatable activity shelter, which can stand alone or you can order an optional connection tunnel to link up to your campervan or SUV. Zip-in wall panels – featuring windows or mesh – and an annexe are also available at an extra cost if you want even more privacy or protection.

Another inflatable offering is the Outwell Air Shelter. Again, you simply pump it up for instant cover, with a choice of wall panels also optional. Prices start at around £350.

Meanwhile, Quest’s Screen House – available in two sizes and priced from around £250 – uses an integral extending frame system so it can be put up by one person in seconds. Its sides are mesh, but you can order additional panelling to complete your enclosure.

Jerba Campervans gets the seal of approval from VW

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A campervan converter company based in North Berwick has become the first firm in Scotland to gain official recognition from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

Jerba Campervans is an employee-owned firm and has joined the ranks of just two other companies in the UK to be named a Motorhome Qualified Converter by the prestigious vehicle manufacturer.

In order to receive the qualification, a firm must demonstrate they meet a number of strict standards and obligations outlined by VW.

Nick Axtell, specialist sales manager at VW, explained the reason for creating the scheme was to highlight to their customers that quality control is at the heart of their operations.

Being able to confidently direct customers to campervan converters that have been qualified by the scheme extends the promises and obligations VW expects from its own workings.

Among the essential compliances customers can expect from a Motorhome Qualified Converter are added liability insurance, matched warranty and an approval from the National Caravan Council.

All of these elements help to give customers peace of mind when having a VW van converted into a campervan to suit their specific needs.

The scheme helps VW identify companies with strong ethics and an ethos in line with its own, contributing to the establishment of a long-term relationship between the two parties.

Mr Axtell said: “Out of all the companies we’ve dealt with, Jerba has been one of the best simply because of its expertise in our industry.”

Representatives from VW visited the Jerba factory in East Lothian numerous times before lockdown was put in place and have witnessed the firm’s dedication to customer care and knowledge of the vehicles firsthand.

Simon Poole, co-founder of Jerba Campervans, said: “This has been many years in the making, and we couldn’t be happier to finally achieve this qualification.

It means a great deal to us, not only by sharing it with our customers, but it is recognition for the team and the incredibly high standards they uphold each day.”

Jerba can now highlight its Motorhome Qualified Converter status by displaying the scheme’s logo on its website and in promotional material.

Embrace the sunshine with Adria’s new generation Coral

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There’s nothing better than adventuring in your motorhome during the summer months, soaking up the sunshine and falling asleep in comfort after long days outdoors.

If you’re looking for a new leisure vehicle to make the most of the summer, then Adria may have the perfect solution.

Its new generation Coral features a panoramic roof window, maximising light within the motorhome, giving you a bright, sunny interior on your travels.

While the three-berth motorhome, arranged in a two plus one configuration, prides itself on its contemporary living space, it’s the exclusive design SunRoof that really sets it apart.

Described by the manufacturer as offering “atrium-style living”, the SunRoof not only lets in light but also helps to ventilate the vehicle and offer a feeling of additional space.

Once the sun’s gone down, you can still use light to build ambience within the Coral, as it’s fitted with a new lighting system controlled entirely by you.

Build on this relaxed vibe with cool sounds emanating from hidden speakers throughout the vehicle.

The new generation Coral comes in Supreme and Plus versions, each with enough seating to accommodate four people.

A double floor means it’s single level throughout the motorhome, but 13cm of underfloor space allows for integrated utilities, insulation and extra storage all to be tucked away.

Adria started manufacturing motorhomes in the 1980s and has gone on to sell more than 100,000 units across the UK and Europe.

It continues to evolve and innovate, meaning a modern Adria motorhome is a state-of-the-art leisure that offers self-contained living on the road.

 

 

 

Image reproduced with kind permission from Adria

Nick’s News – The new Countryside Code, an update on a caravan classic and chemical innovations

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Nick HardingNick’s News – Nick Harding is an expert in all things motorhomes, caravans and camping. Each week, Nick explores products, locations, holiday ideas and essential community information on our behalf – It’s a Hard-ing Life for Nick, but here is what he found this week.

My caravan week

Hey, I’m after some advice. Like all of you, my lockdown time hasn’t been wasted and all kinds of holiday trips have not just been dreamed up but will hopefully actually happen. My summer touring should see me leaving my home in the West Country and visiting, in turn, Pembrokeshire in Wales, Scotland’s west coast and Northern Ireland.

It’s the latter I’m after advice on. We’re taking our dog on the Stena Line Cairnryan-Belfast crossing, because it’s the shortest, and we’re not sure whether to leave her in our vehicle or book an on-board kennel. She’s been on a ferry before and coped with being kennelled on a four-hour crossing, but I don’t think she found it completely enjoyable. Hence the shout out. I’d love to hear of anyone else’s experiences.

In the news

The countryside – new coded warnings

There’s a new version of the Countryside Code in town – but some folk aren’t happy. Despite exhortations to “be nice, say hello, share the space” and “enjoy your visit, have fun, make a memory”, lots of folk are arguing the latest version isn’t going far enough – in terms of sticking to official footpaths, keeping dogs on leads near livestock and wild animals and warnings against the dangers of disposable barbecues, for example.

The original Countryside Code dates back to 1951, and as you can guess there have been quite a few changes since then. We spread a lot more litter, for starters. Common sense, really, but there’s no shortage of heartbreaking tales and images of devastation that show some folk really don’t care about our great outdoors.

Our government has enough on its hands at the moment without trying to promote things like Countryside Codes (official advertising budget £50,000; compare that with the £46million Get Ready for Brexit spend). So, you can find out more here. Personally, I’ve always liked the ‘leave only footprints, take only photographs’ mantra.

Caravan crush

Eriba Ocean Drive 530 – rhapsodising about the blue

I do love a little caravan. They’re fun and they’re not as impractical as you might presuppose. With roots back in the 1950s, Eriba’s Troll series has been around long enough to be a proper grown-up, with the latest Ocean Drive in blue and Rockabilly in red 530 variants keeping them bang on trend.

Thanks to Eriba’s unique aerodynamics and impeccable road manners, they’re an absolute doddle to tow. There’s top build quality here too. If there’s the two of you, you could leave the bed permanently made up and sit across from each other at the front. It’s not cheap, though. Bang in a few essential extras and you could find yourself going the wrong side of £29,000. Ouch!

Three good: Character, style, quality
Two bad: Expensive, living space is always going to be tight
Perfect for… Going retro and keeping it compact
Also Consider: Adria Action, Knaus Sport&Fun

Cleaning products for your caravan

Gadget envy

Opening up – be prepared

I’m writing this just before England’s campsites are due to open from April 12, but without toilet block facilities. So, if you’re heading off, make sure you’ve got a good supply of the right chemicals with you – for the toilet and beyond.

A couple of items I’m trying out for the first time on a post-Easter trip to the Cotswolds are from a company called Qualkem. Both are from its extensive 40shot range. Dish-n-Treat sounds rather unique in that you can use it as you would any washing-up liquid, but as it drains away it’s also designed to cleanse any pipework it passes through as well as the waste tank itself.

Loo-Tubes, meanwhile, are packs of “one-shot” solutions for chemical toilets – six 25ml doses for the cassette tank and two pink rinses for the flush. Just open them and use them as normal, but not only do you know you’re giving an exact dose each time, there’s none of the lingering smell you often get with larger containers of toilet chemicals. And less chance of any accidental spillages.

I’ve managed to grab myself a good sanitiser too. Steril-eeze differs from other sanitisers in that it’s alcohol-free, instead its vital ingredient is hypochlorous acid – as used in hospitals. It’s child-friendly, won’t irritate skin and can also extend beyond personal use. You can use it on fruit and veg, work surfaces and more.

VW unveils price for Caddy California and it’s more affordable than you’d think

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Volkswagen (VW) has announced the pricing for its new compact campervan ahead of the order books opening in late May and it could be yours for just £29,965.

The Caddy California will give owners the opportunity to head for the road at short notice with everything they need for a simple getaway.

That means a foldable bed, mini kitchen, flexible seating and clever storage to switch it up from everyday driving mode to comfortable camping with ease.

VW prides itself on having introduced the original iconic campervan to the world and has been building on this reputation ever since.

It says the Caddy California means there’s now “a touring model for every budget, every journey and every adventure”.

Based on the fifth-generation Caddy, which has won awards for its innovation, the California takes its place alongside the T6.1-based California and Crafter-based Grand California in VW’s camper line-up.

The foldable bed measures 1,980mm x 1,070mm and is constructed with cup springs within a high-quality mattress.

When it’s not in use it’s stored in the parcel shelf, folding down over the rear seats to create a comfortable sleeping area.

The Caddy California has seating for five people, but the second row of seats can be removed completely if it’s just the two of you.

Alternatively, a stand alone tail-tent is available as an accessory to increase the sleeping capacity of the camper for family use.

The retractable mini kitchen extends from the rear of the camper and features a single-burner cooker and integrated gas bottle.

There’s clever stowage compartments for cutlery and basic cookware, as well as camper chairs and a table for sitting out and enjoying your meal.

Air conditioning, power-adjustable wing mirrors and anti-theft alarm come as standard for extra comfort and peace of mind.

Camping and Caravanning Club announces opening date for 2 new campsites

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The Camping and Caravanning Club has announced the date that two hotly-anticipated new sites will open to the public.

Braithwaite Village Club Site, which is located within the Lake District National Park, and Sherwood Pines Camping in the Forest in Nottinghamshire will welcome guests from May 24th.

Of course, the date is subject to any government restrictions being lifted by then, but both sites are already accepting bookings.

Caravans, motorhomes, campervans and tents will be seen across the site’s pitches, as everyone from families to backpackers are expected to enjoy the high-spec facilities.

The Braithwaite Village Club Site has undergone extensive refurbishment since it was previously known as Scotgate, but still enjoys views towards the Northern Fells.

It’s close to Whinlatter Forest and is perfectly located for exploring the mountain bike trails, walking routes and extensive children’s adventure playgrounds.

Sherwood Pines is a brand new campsite in partnership with Forestry England, where campers can enjoy a selection of walking trails and mountain bike routes direct from the site, as well as the Go Ape centre nearby.

Fresh air staycations are expected to be particularly popular this summer, as uncertainty around foreign travel continues.

Sabina Voysey, director general of The Camping and Caravanning Club, said: “We are expecting a bumper year ahead and we’re looking forward to welcoming people back to our campsites when they re-open.

“Even in a really difficult year, we are especially proud to be opening two fantastic new campsites in tranquil locations that we know will be hugely popular for years to come.”

She went on to address reports that accommodation is being booked up fast, saying there’s still plenty of availability and no need for anyone to panic that they’re going to miss out on their caravan holiday this year.

Her top tips for enjoying a post-pandemic trip away include looking for destinations off the beaten track and closer to home.

What I learnt as a judge of the 2021 Caravan Design Awards Buyers’ Guide

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Like everything in the time of coronavirus, the 2021 Caravan Design Awards was different this year. Instead of systematically walking around the stands at the NEC’s Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show, the judges had to assess each applicant remotely.

This was in no means an easy task, consisting of three weeks of intensive research into technical specifications, design innovations, use of space and usability reviews. The result was well worth it as the 2021 Caravan Design Awards Buyers’ Guide is essential reading for anyone looking to purchase a caravan, motorhome, campervan or van conversion in the near future.

Judging in the age of coronavirus

CaravanTimes’ very own Dan Cartwright was on the judging panel and we asked him for a little more insight into this year’s process and how it differed from previous years. After 12 years in the industry, Dan was given the privilege of being asked to be a judge and has carried out the role for three or four years.

He said that this year was very different to trailing round the NEC and scoring each of the vans in the flesh. It took a lot longer, because the leisure vehicles aren’t available, but each judge was still able to evaluate their areas of expertise, as well as the overall features. Each vehicle still got scored in exactly the same way, even if the process was different.

116 leisure vehicles to judge

The caravans, motorhomes and campervans scored by Dan and his fellow judges are all fairly new to the market and had been specifically put forward. They totalled 116 vehicles, ranging from two-berth campervans to six-plus berth motorhomes, demonstrating there really is something for everyone on the market.

Just because the judges couldn’t visit the vehicles in person, this doesn’t mean they didn’t go into in-depth detail for each and every model. They had manufacturer-specific information that can’t be found on websites, scrutinised handbooks and scoured all the available paperwork for each motorhome to do the level of research that most prospective buyers simply don’t have time for.

Dan summarised: “It’s an excellent resource for anyone who wants to buy a new motorhome, caravan, campervan or van conversion.”

Learnings from the 2021 Caravan Design Awards Buyers’ Guide

Something for everyone

Dan said: “The number of different entries and the different classes that are there is huge and what’s really obvious is that in each and every class, there’s something for someone. Not everybody holidays the same; not everybody takes the same stuff with them; not everyone spends time inside or outside of a motorhome in the same way as everybody else, so the level of variation in layouts is huge.”

For example, if you take four-berth coach-built motorhomes, there were 19 different entries. Some of them have two loungers; some of them have fixed beds; some of them have massive garages; some of them have double drop-down beds. It’s up to the individual buyer to decide what best suits them and make their purchase accordingly.

An influx of European motorhomes

Among the things Dan noticed this year as opposed to other years judging the Caravan Design Awards was the number of European motorhomes coming in. He said that this has broadened the scope for anyone looking to spend as much time outside as possible on their holidays . It’s also worth noting that the majority of those assessed were built to a UK standard and not converted from European into a UK van.

Dan reassured anyone looking to buy a European motorhome that Brexit would not be an impediment to this. He said that “by the time that you’re on a dealer forecourt all that has been taken care of”.

Not judged by price

The judges assessed the vehicles without knowing their price points, meaning the scoring was only moderated according to their price after all the vans had been judged. This allowed them to evaluate like for like regardless of cost. Dan highlighted that it’s usually the case that “the most expensive ones aren’t the best and the cheapest ones aren’t the worst”.

He said that what was really evident from the scoring was that it’s all about finding the right one for you. That means a caravan or motorhome that suits your lifestyle, as opposed to a preconceived idea about price or brand.

More information needs to be made publicly available

It became very apparent throughout the judging process that the caravan and motorhome industry needs to adapt to online shopping in the current climate. Dan pointed out that whether you use handbooks, logbooks or websites, there’s a lack of comprehensive information that will actually tell you important things like the size of the water tank and how many plug sockets a leisure vehicle has.

Dan said: “As we move into a Covid-style world and everyone’s doing more shopping online, you need to be able to get a full understanding of that motorhome or campervan from the literature that they have. Big companies don’t really have any excuse for not doing it and should provide more information online.”

 

Image of the Adria Alpina Colorado reproduced with kind permission from Adria