By William Coleman
I love the NEC show which takes place twice a year and it is returning to Birmingham once again. It is a fantastic place to find so many new and exciting things that are going on in the industry as well as speaking to exhibitors and the general public. Plus it gives me a chance to spend a week jumping in and out hundreds of different leisure vehicles, pods, tents and every other type of new touring accommodation.
So what are some of this years highlights to look out for ahead of the show? The brand new Colorado from Adria’s Alpine will certainly have heads turning. With a modern design that features a large front lounge and kitchen as well as twin fixed single beds and an end washroom. This model is perfect for those who want more space when on their staycation.
Lunar Caravans will be displaying their new TR layout on an 8 foot wide bodyshell. I spent quite a while looking at this model at the Manchester show a couple of weeks ago and I can see why this model is so popular. The amount of extra room it provides is staggering with a living room area that has to be sat in to be believed, so make sure you spend some time with the Lunar team at their stand.
Other caravan manufacturers and dealers appearing at the show include Swift, which displays redesigned options across its Sprite and Conqueror ranges. Bailey also exhibits, showcasing its latest generation of Unicorn caravans, and Coachman brings three exceptional caravan models from its Vision and Pastiche ranges as well as the newly-launched VIP.
Now onto the tents and camping, something that took an upswing during the later months off 2017 despite the chilly weather. Kampa will be launching its new 20018 range of AIR and poled-tent models. We also have a show exclusive debut product at the show, the Travel Pod Touring Callic AIR VW. This is a standalone tent that sits comfortably next to your leisure vehicle which makes it an ideal awning for those who want a quick and convenient set up.
Outdoor Revolution showcases its new Evora 390 ProClimate, a spacious awning for larger groups, while four new awnings are introduced to Isabella Awnings’ Ventura AIR range including the Ventura Trinus 400, Ventura Cito 350, Ventura Vivo and Ventura Simplex.
Our motorhome enthusiasts are in for a treat too, as Auto-Sleeper unveil their all new MPV Camper which is based on the Peugeot Traveller. The new leisure vehicle comes with a stylish exterior design and an extensive specification. Lunar Motorhomes will be launching their Roadstar which is a 4 berth SB that also features their fixed single bed and end washroom design.
For those who want the luxurious motorhome can get in in depth look at Adria’s premium Sonic Supreme A-Class. The range features the 810 SL models that comes features a large garage under a king size bed.
So once you have decided on what accomodation type to go away in you now need to find a location to stay. Or for those who simply want to plan a getaway in there are glamping pods, lodges and statics homes on display at the show. ABI will be displaying their new 2018 season lodges: The Malham and The Ambleside, and on top of that they will be exclusively revealing two brand new products at the show. Both the 14ft Artisan Lodge and first-ever twin unit, the Wyndham Lodge will be on full display.
A huge range of accessories are also on offer and provide everything needed for a camping or leisure vehicle holiday. Destination inspiration is aplenty with a variety of options across both the UK and Europe.
With interactive activities for all, the Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show 2018 is the ideal event for a fun and family-friendly day out. Tickets are now available at www.ccmshow.co.uk and by phone on 0844 873 7333. Advance prices start from £7.00*, with children 15 and under entering free.
