A holiday packed with too many stops can leave you more tired than when you set off. A new pitch every night, packing up every morning and hitting the road before you’ve finished your coffee soon takes its toll. Slow travel turns that on its head and a motorhome is perfectly suited to it.
What slow travel really means
It isn’t about driving slowly. It’s about staying put for longer, so a week away might mean two or three bases rather than seven. You get to know a place properly instead of simply passing through.
Why fewer stops work so well
Slowing down doesn’t mean doing less. Here’s what you gain by staying put:
- Less time spent packing up, driving and setting up again.
- Fewer miles, which means less fuel and less time behind the wheel.
- More chances to find local cafes, farm shops and footpaths away from the crowds.
- A calmer pace, which suits families and dogs alike.
Some sites also offer discounts for longer stays, so it’s worth asking when you book.
How to make it work
Choose a base with plenty on the doorstep, such as coastal paths, cycle routes or a market town. Explore on foot, by bike or on the local bus rather than moving the van each day. Keep a loose list of things you’d like to do rather than a rigid itinerary and leave at least one day with no plans at all.
Make time for the pauses
Slow travel is as much about the pauses as the places. Sit outside with a brew, watch the weather roll in and chat to your neighbours on site. These small moments are often the ones people remember most.
On your next trip, try booking one pitch for longer than usual and see how much more you notice.
Image credits: Unsplash
