WEATHER WARNING: Weekend whiteout expected as snow could reach south of Britain

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by Marcus Dubois and Chris Malone

Those planning a winter caravan break in the next fortnight are strongly advised to check road conditions and weather forecasts after recent predictions. Experts believe arctic winds could bring the worst November snow to London and the South-East this weekend, with up to two weeks of extreme weather ahead.

Major parts of the East of England were covered in up to six inches of snow yesterday, while snow showers reached many areas of Scotland and northern England earlier this week.

The Met Office has forecast heavy snow in Wales and icy roads in the south-west of England in the next 24 hours while heavy snow is also forecast over the weekend for England’s entire East Coast region. In addition Scotland and Northern Ireland are expected to see extreme weather conditions.

Caravanners are warned to avoid unnecessary journeys if their area has been affected. According to the Daily Mail, the AA was called to around 14,000 breakdowns yesterday – a 50 per cent increase on a normal November working day.

Severe weather warnings are already in place for snow across parts of northern England and Scotland, and up to 5cm of snow was expected inland yesterday. Experts had predicted up to 20cm possible on the North York Moors and Grampian Mountains by the end of today.

“There is no doubt that the UK will see much colder conditions by the end of the week,” said Met Office chief forecaster Andy Page.

“Snow will also be a risk for many, and the public are advised to stay up to date with the forecast to make sure they have the latest information.”

Scotland experienced its snowiest winter in years in 2009-10, with enough snow on the Cairngorm mountain range to allow people to ski right into the summer months.

2011 Hymer Nova: European caravans on British roads?

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by Holly Tribe

With wholesale change from many of Britain’s biggest caravan manufacturers this year, there’s been a glut of new designs introduced to the UK market. From the new silhouette on the Swift Conqueror, Charisma and Sterling Eccles and Elite ranges, to Bailey Caravans’ new top end Unicorn series, the choice for British caravanners is getting ever broader. But what about our European counterparts?

A change in the law earlier this year resulted in the legal width for British touring caravans towed by vehicles under 3500kg being increased from 2.3m to 2.55m, bringing the UK in line with the rest of Europe. As a result, we take a look at what’s been going on across the Channel with European caravan design.

A favourite with European caravanners, Hymer have been building popular ranges of touring caravans for over fifty years. These German-made tourers are distributed throughout Europe and have a strong reputation for build quality and reliability.

For the 2011 season, Hymer Caravans have overhauled their most popular brand the Hymer Nova. Focussing on practical improvement and furnishing comfort, the range has had three new models added to the line-up.

Hymer Nova 435

With a body length of 5.32 metres, the nose end houses both the fixed bed and washroom. The mid section kitchen faces ample wardrobe storage and to the rear is the corner seating/dinette area.

  • Overall Width: 230cm
  • MTPLM: 1350kg

Hymer Nova 531

Large U-shaped dinettes in the rear and at the nose end both convert into large sleeping areas separated by a mid-galley kitchen and washroom housing a shower and toilet.

  • Overall Width: 230cm
  • MTPLM: 1500kg

Hymer Nova 541

The third addition comes in the form of the Nova 541, whose layout mirrors that of the 531 but with an extra 10cm width (2.4metres).

  • Overall Width: 240 cm
  • MTPLM: 1600 kg

Construction of Hymer caravans is based on the tried and tested PUAL method – fully bonded walls, roof and rear section. A design process borrowed from aircraft construction, it ensures reliable waterproofing and reduces the risk of decay. And all nine models are supported on a fully galvanised lightweight Al-Ko chassis.

Until recently these tourers would have been prohibited on British roads, but we may well be seeing more of these popular German tourers in caravan parks across the country.

Locks, bolts and alarms: adding extra security to your caravan

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by Marcus Dubois

It is an unfortunate reality that our caravans and motorhomes are prime targets for thieves. The vehicle itself is a high-value item, yet often it is the contents left inside that offer caravan criminals a bonus. Keeping your tourer on the property is no guarantee that it will be safe, as shown in a recent story on Caravan Times where a man was pictured on Google Street View next to a caravan moments before its theft from a driveway.

And this week Caravan Times community member Stevie boy got in touch with us to relay the following bad news:

“My Bailey Pegasus was forced open the other night; the alarm scared heads off and nothing was stolen. Has anyone fitted additional door security to this type of van?”

The good news for Steve is that the excellent alarm system on the caravan was an effective deterrent, yet it is unfortunate that many caravan door locks are not high security devices when faced with an expert thief. Many experts advise using preventative measures when leaving your caravan at home, such as emptying its contents, securing windows or leaving an automated light on.

Yet there are products available for the caravanner which provide the equivalent of fitting a bolt to your front door -offering that extra piece of mind and slowing down potential thieves.

Bolt and braces

It’s possible to improve the security of the existing lock itself by changing the barrel for one that requires a different key. However as well as the expense it is unlikely to stop a thief able to pick locks. Therefore the recommended method is to fit a high security “bolt” style lock to the door to compliment your existing system.

There are deadlocks available such as those from Harrison Locks which can be easily fitted by the owner. Using a simple metal bolt system you can fit two locks if required, and the device can also be used for locker doors.

Yet some owners may not be entirely happy drilling or screwing into the door and potentially compromising the existing structure. For those caravanners there are some alternatives.

Doorframe locks

In our search for a non-invasive second lock which could deter thieves we spoke to Lee from CaravanStuff4U who was able to recommend the Milenco Superior Safe Door Frame Lock to us. The device fits directly into the caravan door frame surround and slides left or right to lock and secure the entrance. The manufacturer claims it can be fitted by the owner in around ten minutes and should be mounted beside the doorframe. Lee described this as “an easy to fit lock which can be removed – but when the door is shut you won’t be able to see it”

Another option we came across is to fit a Fiamma Safe Door device which is a “pivoting safety block” for the caravan door. A similar kind of anti-theft device, it can be installed using bolts and internal counter-brackets, and can be found here.

Elddis push 2011 caravans to the limit on German test track

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by Holly Tribe

Elddis Caravans recently visited the Iveco test track in southern Germany to put models from their Elddis and Buccaneer ranges through their paces.

Ordinarily used to test HGV rigs and trucks, the track is built to simulate pot holes and washboard corrugations. At speeds of up to 60mph over 100 laps, the test replicated five years of average use, towing the fully laden caravans over difficult terrain.

To watch footage from the test track head to www.elddis.co.uk

Elddis is the only British caravan manufacturer to use the BPW chassis and running gear, which withstood the punishing driving conditions valiantly. After the centennial lap, there was no reported damage to the interior or exterior structure, all the cabinetry remained unaffected and all the appliances continued to function.

Elddis Caravans chassis suppliers, BPW Fahrzeugtechnik, were also on site during the testing process and reported back this was “the strongest touring caravan tested” in their many years’ experience.

To hear more about the BPW chassis and the Elddis and Buccaneer ranges click here.

VIDEO: Stealth Caravans answers your questions in Talkback

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by Marcus Dubois

In this edition of TalkBack we focus on the striking designs from Stealth Caravans. Whether a fan or a sceptic, the radical looks never fail to ignite opinion and interest, and the second generation of Stealths have generated similar levels of discussion. Thank you to everyone who sent in forum posts and questions ahead of International Caravan and Motorhome 2010. Here we put your questions to Matthew Rickard of Dunster House, designers and makers of the Stealth.

It’s been a busy year for the Bedford-based newcomers after they introduced a new model range with three variants: “Valiant”, “Intrepid” and “Defiant”. It saw the creation of a more conventional layout placing the lounge at the front end, with a redesigned nosecone featuring a front window for the first time. This was shortly followed by the R-Class and T-Class layouts in a greatly expanded line-up.

The questions in this episode focus on the nature of quality control procedures at Stealth, as well as how the caravans are serviced without a dealer network. In addition we find out whether Dunster House have any plans to release an all-black Stealth Caravan…

If you would like to make a suggestion for the next episode or submit your questions to the caravan industry, please click here to post in our forums or join the Caravan Times Community.

Dub-Box: The vintage-style caravan modelled on the iconic VW campervan

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by Holly Tribe

Trying to decide between the practicality of a caravan and the kitsch cool of a VW campervan? Now you don’t have to.

An innovative British start-up has designed a two berth caravan with the same distinct styling as the characterful vintage air cooled VW campervan.

An icon in the making?

The creators of the Dub-box explain how it ‘draws its inspiration from an infusion of classic American caravans and vintage campers.’ The company has achieved the iconic finish using reproduction vintage parts and cutting edge trailer technology.

The main cabin is constructed by welding the back end of two split screen VW campervans together. Each trailer sits aboard a single axle galvanised chassis complete with brakes. With an MTPLM of 750kg it has been specifically designed to be towed with a normal licence.

Customers can opt for a rolling shell (body shell, floor and door skins on an EU certified chassis) to finish themselves for £5,500, and there’s also a pop top version on offer for an additional £1,700. Options for fabric, flooring, blinds and worktops are available and buyers can also choose the colour of the paintwork on the glass fibre body.

The front dinette converts into a comfortable 6’2″ x 5″ double bed and the Dub-Box kitchen is kitted out with a retro style fridge, two ring gas burner, stainless steel sink with a pump action tap and there’s dual access via an external hatch.

Each van also comes equipped with 240 volt electric hook up and 12 volt power distribution system, LED lighting, a smoke alarm, and for those who like to lounge, a CD player with personal MP3 player charge and dock.

VW are well known for their retro split screen campervans, and the Dub-box offers the vintage cool of the VW brand without the hassle of maintaining vintage engine parts.

  • Price: £13,750
  • MTPLM: 750kg
  • Overall Height: 185cm

For more information on prices and interior options click here.

Park Resorts confirm popularity of holidaying at home with Staycation Index

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by Holly Tribe

A survey commissioned by caravan site company Park Resorts has discovered which of the country’s towns and cities are most likely to be home to ‘staycationers’.

Three of Yorkshire’s major cities topped the list with staycationers becoming at least twice as likely to holiday in the UK compared to five years ago. The biggest growth was in Hull with an increase of 173%, followed by 132% in Leeds and by almost 125% in Wakefield.

The survey was based on 700,000 holidays taken between 2006 and 2010, and overall analysis confirmed the number of holidays taken by Britons in Britain has increased by almost 37% in the five year period.

Park Resorts marketing director Andy Edge explained: “Our staycation index shows that in certain parts of the UK, domestic holidays have massively grown in popularity over the last five years.”

Mr Edge explained he was confident the upward trend for staycationing would continue in the coming years: “Many people have opted for a UK holiday in the first instance in order to save money. However, our experience has shown that once they have rediscovered the delights of a British holiday, they rebook the following year, which is obviously great news for the domestic tourism industry.”

Conversely, Londoners were found to be the least likely to holiday in the UK, with the slowest growth in the same 2006-10 period of just 1.69%.

Park Resorts is the country’s second largest holiday park operator, with 39 sites across the country providing services for both static and touring caravans. Click here for more information on Park Resorts.

Caravan used as giant camera obscura

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by Holly Tribe

An Hungarian photographer has won the prestigious BMW-Paris photography prize, using a technique which involved turning a caravan into a giant ‘camera obscura’.

According to CNN International, the winning photograph was taken by artist Gabor Isz under the theme ‘Electric Vision’. The winning work entitled “Permanent Daylight” is part of a series Mr Isz made in a caravan parked next to a cluster of agricultural greenhouses.

The camera was made by punching a small hole in the trailer and directing the incoming light onto photosensitive paper hung inside. Over the course of four nights, light radiating from the greenhouses passed through the hole to create the image on the paper.

Mr Itz was awarded ?12,000 and commended for the originality of his practice, which photography historian and jury member Michael Frizot said “is unlike certain standards of today.”

Are you a photography enthusiast? Have a look at some of the stunning shots uploaded by members of the Caravan Times community here.

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Caravan site operator Parkdean set to double business

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by Marcus Dubois

Caravan park operator Parkdean is hoping to double the size of its business over five years after a rise in site acquisitions.

According to The Journal, the Newcastle company believes it can now reach its longheld target of running forty sites within four or five years due to a sharp growth in the market for UK caravan holidays. Parkdean said it had seen sales rise again from £120m last year, which resulted in profits reaching £31.5m as more families took a staycation in one of the firm’s 24 sites.

The company has more than 2,000 staff and is the UK’s third largest caravan park operator next to Park Resorts and Haven operator Bourne Leisure. Parkdean’s sites are located in the south-west of the country, in the main due to the recent purchase of Exeter-based Weststar Holidays three years ago. Yet the firm is now hoping to achieve more national coverage and chief executive John Waterworth is optimistic about the future.

“I think the future is looking particularly strong for the UK holiday market at the moment” he noted. “People are realising how easy it is to holiday at home and it has been an even better season than last year. We are seeing a lot of people going for weekend breaks as well as the one big summer holiday”.

Having launched Parkdean in 1999 with one park, the company was floated on the stock exchange before being taken over for £139m by an investment firm and then delisted. And Waterworth was quick to sound a note of caution.

“You don’t want to expand too quickly and there was a lot of uncertainty in 2008/9. You have to have a sustainable business, to stick to your knitting and do what you do best in situations like that.”

Click here for more on caravan holidays offered by Parkdean.

Caravan owners warned of snow and winter road conditions

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by Marcus Dubois

Over the last few years Caravan Times has noted the increase in popularity of winter caravanning as enthusiasts take advantage of new technology to enjoy touring in the off season. Yet those towing a caravan or driving a motorhome this week have been warned to take extra care as winter starts to descend on the UK.

According to the Highways Agency drivers should be correctly prepared for severe weather this winter and only make essential journeys during the worst conditions.

Carrying out simple vehicle checks can help reduce the risk of running into problems, explained roads minister Mike Penning. He added that reading traffic and weather reports can also be useful when planning a journey.

And while the Highways Agency has taken extra steps to prepare for winter following the harsh weather over the past two years, the organisation reminded drivers that they have a responsibility of their own.

“As well as snow and ice, strong winds, heavy rain and thick fog can affect journeys in the winter season,” the organisation said.

Drivers can help reduce their chances of becoming a victim of the weather by ensuring oil and brake fluid levels are topped up, while lights should be kept clean and in working order.

The inclement weather has already begun across many parts of the UK, with areas of Cornwall experiencing flooding this month. This week heavy snow is expected across Scotland and in eastern England.

Carashine moves to new premises in North-East

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Caravan cleaning and restoration firm Carashine has announced it has moved to dedicated premises to offer a wider range of services to customers.

The firm has relocated to a workshop based in Stockton-On-Tees in a popular retail park which is fully secure and alarmed with CCTV in operation. As such, Carashine is now able to offer a full storage and collection services for caravanners.

The company’s standard offering is valeting or detailing services which it claims will add value and protection to the caravan or motorhome. Yet in addition to cleaning and restoration, the move to new premises has allowed Caraashine to introduce the option of a “Future Guard” detailing service with a six-year guarantee.

Owner Jon Forster is hoping that the move to a dedicated workshop will allow him to offer a variety of options to the caravanner. This will include an M.O.T service for cars and all sizes of motorhomes, a tyre fitting bay, and tow car valeting and detailing.

“Clients will be able to tie in a detailing service with any of the other offerings” he revealed, and he explained that “while Carashine is a specialised business, the other services just happen to be offered within the complex which made it an ideal place.”

Mr Forster also revealed he hopes to offer caravan and motorhome body repairs “very soon”.

Click here for more about services offered by Carashine.

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FEATURE: Five of the best lightweight micro caravans

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by Holly Tribe

We’ve received a few comments in recent months from readers nostalgic for the simple things in life, namely, lightweight low tech caravans.

For some, the increasingly sophisticated technology and heavyweight designs of modern tourers aren’t cause for celebration.

As Beryl who currently lives in France, recently asked: “Why oh why are caravans so heavy? Surely in these days of climate change, the lighter the greener. I am pig sick trying to find a decent caravan that we can tow!”

Well Beryl, in response to your cries of lament here are our top five tourers that can be towed by a reasonably sized VW Golf.

The Little Guy

These teardrop shaped trailers are based on the travel trailer design which originated in the US. Their diminutive form is light enough to be hauled behind a quad bike. But caravanners beware, you will have to travel light as nominal storage comes in the form of a small roof mounted cupboard above the bed.

  • Price: £3995
  • Weight: 300kg

Tuareg

A winner in this years’ European Caravanning and Design Awards, the Tuareg is lightweight and garage friendly with an elevating roof for extra headroom. The cunning island kitchen design can be used in the cabin or taken outside for the chef to prepare dinner al fresco.

  • Price: Euro 13,995
  • MTPLM: on request

T@b

Manufactured at the Tabbart factory near Frankfurt in Germany, these pint-sized caravans come in a range of three layouts – the smallest of which is the T@b 320. In its naked form weighs approximately 550kg and is small enough to be towed by a mini.

  • Price: on request
  • MTPLM: 800kg

    • Sprite Finesse 2

    If you’re looking for something a bit more mainstream, have a look at the Finesse 2. This compact lightweight tourer from Swift Caravans is the littlest in the Sprite range. Standing at 3.66m in length with an MTPLM of 1,084kg – it is small enough to be matched with a small family car such as VW Golf or Vauxhall Corsa.

    • Price: £10,599
    • MTPLM: 1,084kg

    Adria Action 361

    And finally, we come to our final European offering, the Action 361 from Adria Caravans. Slightly undercutting the Sprite in cost and weight it comes equipped with a large toilet and boasts class leading storage facilities.

    • Price: £10,114
    • MTPLM: 1,000kg