How to prevent family road trips from becoming stressful

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While many of us are enjoying packing up the kids into the caravan or motorhome this summer, a whopping 87 per cent of parents find family road trips stressful, it has been revealed.

That is according to a survey of 2,000 parents carried out by Car Shades, which has subsequently shared its advice on cutting down on the stress and enjoying a holiday together.

The firm partnered with psychological therapist, counsellor and systemic life coach Michael Padraig Acton to provide the following tips:

Plan effectively

A successful road trip with the family starts with the planning and it’s important to ensure everything will be comfortable for the kids, including the space they have and the temperature of the vehicle.

Boredom can lead to tension among family members, so make sure there’s plenty of activities that the kids will enjoy, ranging from games to play together to things they can do on their own.

Be sure to pack snacks for the journey, but keep anything too high in sugar to a minimum, as this will only lead to excess energy with nowhere to go in a vehicle.

Manage your emotions

Getting road rage can lead to a tense atmosphere in the car or motorhome, so think about ways to stay relaxed if you experience traffic jams or inconsiderate drivers.

Have a strategy for dealing with the kids’ behaviour

If there’s more than one adult in the car then it should be the passenger who deals with the kids if they start misbehaving, so that the driver can concentrate on the road.

Remember to speak calmly but firmly to ensure the atmosphere in the vehicle doesn’t become confrontational and everyone can remain happy.

Take a break

Road trips can feel long for both children and adults alike, so be prepared to pause the journey and let everyone get out of the vehicle for a few minutes to stretch their legs and improve their mood.

Trying to stick to a strict schedule can exacerbate the level of stress experienced by parents, so plan in breaks and be realistic about how far it’s reasonable to drive in a day.

Include the kids in the itinerary

Providing kids with an idea of the route, how long it will take and the landmarks they can look out for along the way will help them to establish a feeling of control.

This is a good strategy for pre-empting issues and allowing children to adjust their expectations to the situation.

Steve Giles, managing director at Car Shades, said: “Everyone looks forward to their summer trips away and being able to relax with the family.

“However, as our survey has demonstrated, the journey can prove quite stressful when there is constant arguing, followed by ‘Are we there yet?’, and ‘I’m bored’, whilst the driver is trying to follow road signs and listen closely to the satnav’s last-minute directions.

“We want to make everyone’s holiday enjoyable from start to finish, and with that comes the initial drive to the destination. We hope the tips provided allow for a stress-free drive, enjoyed by all.”

 

 

 

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Anton Luzhkovsky

New Camper Van Cooking book is endorsed by Volkswagen

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A new book featuring 70 recipes to cook up and enjoy on your next campervan adventure has been endorsed by Volkswagen.

Camper Van Cooking by Claire Thomson was published earlier this summer and includes meals that can be easily created in the Volkswagen California.

A food columnist and author of six books, Ms Thomson has put the volume together to encourage holidaymakers to enjoy delicious meals on the road.

If you think that having just two gas rings at your disposal means all campsite ingredients must come out of tins and packets, think again.

Camper Van Cooking shows you the tips and tricks required to make gourmet cuisine from frying pan toad-in-the-hole to chicken satay with prawn crackers and cucumber.

While creating the book, Ms Thomson and her family road tested all of the recipes in a Volkswagen California 6.1, travelling throughout Dorset and Herefordshire.

Kate Thompson, head of marketing at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, said: “We were delighted to loan Claire and her family a Volkswagen California earlier this summer as they ventured on a food safari of Herefordshire.

“The Volkswagen California offers two gas hobs, a fridge and running tap all as standard so with the help of Camper Van Cooking, customers can rustle up adventurous and delicious meals with ease this bank holiday weekend.”

Here are Ms Thomson’s top five tips for successful campervan cooking:

  1. Prepare your first night’s meal at home and freeze it, so it can thaw on the journey and help to keep the rest of your holiday ingredients cool.
  2. Store cupboard essentials like flatbreads and pitta breads can help to supplement local fresh produce throughout your trip.
  3. Substitute plant-based milks for regular dairy milk, as they don’t need to be refrigerated until opened.
  4. Establish a cooking area on your pitch with a table in the shade.
  5. Select flexible recipes that don’t require a lot of measuring or precision.

Motorhome holidays voted number one for freedom factor

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Getting away in a motorhome is the ultimate choice for enjoying the freedom factor, according to a new study by Goboony.

Experiencing the great outdoors was highly linked with a sense of freedom, as 41 per cent of respondents said motorhomes gave them this feeling, as well as 14 per cent for camping and eight per cent for caravanning.

The results from the motorhome hire company demonstrate how the coronavirus pandemic has seen a shift in holiday attitudes with a greater focus on enjoying trips more closely linked to nature.

Goboony has seen a 329 per cent year-on-year growth in the last 12 months and reports there’s no signs of demand for leisure vehicles slowing down any time soon.

Jake Stone, UK country manager for Goboony, said: “The pandemic has naturally cemented nature’s role as an antidote for modern living. This includes when on holiday too.

“With international travel in absolute chaos and the cost of PCR Covid tests now being investigated by competition watchdogs, it is no surprise that motorhome holidays and the UK’s great outdoors have come up trumps as choices which make holidaymakers feel free.

“The motorhome holiday is an ideal, safe alternative option for staycationers, and is carving itself a permanent position within the travel and tourism industry landscape. Naturally socially-distanced by design, they are an inventive way for Brits to travel safely.”

The survey revealed how integral the mode of transport is to a trip, with 34 per cent of respondents saying the moment they stepped into their motorhome or on board a plane was when their holiday officially begins.

And while the open road makes 27 per cent of holidaymakers feel free, 23 per cent happy and 12 per cent peaceful, it also comes with a few negative points.

The top three things most likely to cause an argument on a road trip were found to be traffic, directions and backseat driving.

Nick’s News – The Adria roadshow, pop-up campsites and the Elddis Xplore 304

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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 week

Wales last week, Scotland this week. It was a long drive, which was luckily shared, but we arrived at Invermoriston on Saturday. Finishing with the last 150 miles or so of our drive on Sunday through the most glorious of scenery as we passed by lochs Lomond, Linnhe and Ness.

Even the weather is on our side now. I’m also pleasantly surprised the roads aren’t as busy as I’d expected. True, there are plenty of campervans and motorhomes around, but the general picture so far is of a country that’s coping admirably enough with its seasonal influx of visitors.

Driving over the Skye BridgeWe’ve got bookings for the Caravan and Motorhome Club sites at Kinlochewe and Strathclyde Country Park, hopefully squeezing in a day at the Oban Highland Games in between. Happy days!

 

In the news

Adria on the road

You can grab a slice of the Adria 2022 action at a dealer near you. September sees Brownhills, Geoff Cox Leisure, Tilshead Caravans, Black Country Caravans, Tenby Tourers and Swindon Caravans taking the stage on consecutive weekends, with others confirmed for October and November.

If you’re interested in an Adria, check out what your local dealer is doing as part of this roadshow. Not only will it be your first opportunity to view the very latest models, you’ll be able to get great advice too.

And, hopefully, like other manufacturers, things are getting back on track for managing to supply new vehicles based on orders placed any time this year for delivery before the touring season gets going next spring. If you have a caravan or motorhome to trade in, you’ll also be pleasantly surprised at how much it’s worth.

Cornish past it? Or is there still some space?

Have you made it to Cornwall yet, asks an email from the Visit Cornwall tourist organisation? Gosh, are they really open for even more visitors? Much as I love the county, all the reports I’ve heard this summer tell me it’s all full up and campsite bookings are all but impossible. Good luck if you’re planning a last-minute getaway.

Pop-up sites – the WTA way

Wales isn’t the only area of the UK where there’s been an avalanche of pop-up campsites – often nothing more than just farmers’ fields providing leisure vehicle and tent accommodation on a temporary basis – as the country struggles to keep up with demand for places to stay.

The Wales Tourism Alliance (WTA) is hoping to introduce a Register of Pop-Up Campsites to help councils manage unlicensed campsite accommodation across the country. The Welsh Government allows pop-ups to operate for up to 56 days, but such has been the explosion of sites, it’s deemed the time has come for them to have a bit of management.

The WTA itself admits it has no idea how many such sites there are, but it’s calling for a some more official regulation to ensure certain standards are met, as well as certain essentials, from basic hygiene provision (like a proper supply of fresh water and waste disposal facilities).

I’m all for a bit of wild camping – or even semi-wild, as pop-up sites can offer – but, as ever, with such power comes responsibility, and that includes to your neighbours.

Caravan crushInterior of the Xplore 304

Elddis Xplore 304 – Give a little, get a lot

Sprite’s all-new Compact (I’ve yet to see it) may have something to say, but the Xplore 304 from Elddis is a small wonder with few peers. It’s upped its game for 2022 too, with a general smartening up of its appearance as well as some key upgrades, like the Dometic 10 series fridge. You’ll want the £500 SE Pack to bring it up to a decent specification too.

But yes, it really can sleep four, with two a-piece at either end of the living quarters. And it comes with front and rear lounges, a decently specced kitchen and washroom, plus better storage than you’d expect in a diddy 5.5m overall length.

Light on weight as well as price, it currently starts from a smidge over £15,000.Interior of the Xplore 304

Three good: Ten-year bodywork warranty, four-berth capabilities and lightweight for easy towing
Two bad: A bit flimsy in places with compact dimensions mean space is a bit tight
Perfect for… Thinking big, but acting small
Also consider: Adria Action and Bailey Discovery D4-2

The North West tops the table for number of fixed speed cameras

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The north west of England has more speed cameras than anywhere else in the UK, a new study has revealed.

Data collected by the LeaseLoco website found there are 657 fixed roadside speed cameras in the North West, which is something to consider when taking a motorhome trip in this area of the country.

In comparison, the North East was found to have just 137 cameras, a fifth of those in the North West.

While motorhome drivers must stick to the same speeds as other road users, those towing caravans must drive more slowly.

In 70mph locations, caravans are limited to 60mph, which is why they have a reputation for slowing down traffic, but it’s important to keep safety in mind.

With 639 fixed cameras, the South East also has a high density, while there are just 78 across the West Midlands.

John Wilmot, CEO of LeaseLoco, said: “Speed cameras have been a familiar sight on UK roads for years. And this data reveals the disparity between regions when it comes to the number of cameras surveilling our roads, with 500 more across the North West than neighbouring North East England.

“What this data doesn’t reveal is the percentage of these roadside cameras that are currently operational. If Police Authorities’ figures from 2017 are still accurate, then only half of speed cameras are active and motorists may be tempted to gamble in light of these odds.”

He added that it’s irresponsible to play such a game, and even when driving through an area where fixed cameras aren’t active, there’s no immunity from mobile speed cameras.

Those new to driving motorhomes and towing caravans should make sure they’re up to speed on the rules and regulations surrounding their vehicles.

For example, motorhomes over 3,050kg must observe lower speed limits, so it’s vital to understand your vehicles to stay safe and within the law.

 

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Titus Blair

Nick’s News – An update from Wales, the Benimar Benivan 120 and dogs

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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 week

Greetings from Wales, or Pembrokeshire to be a bit more precise, and St Davids to be totally exact. We’ve started the first leg of our Wales-Scotland-Northern Ireland tour and already (four days in as I type) we’ve done loads. It’s busy, though.

St Davids on Monday was some eye-opener, as it was not just really busy, but it’s obvious the hospitality industry is having a real challenge getting staff during what should be its busiest season. We’re slowly learning the lesson that if you really want to go anywhere, book ahead and don’t just turn up on the day.

In the news

Site for sale? – It’s a cool £1million

It’s interesting to note the Camping and Caravanning Club has put one of its campsites up for sale. It’s Ashbourne in Derbyshire, which is perfect for the Peak District. The 70-pitch site, complete with a mixture of grass and hardstandings, also comes with a self-catering unit and a single glamping hut.

These options would be great for holidays with non-caravan/motorhome family members. The asking price for the entire site is one million pounds. Worth a punt? Purchasing a site is one thing, and it does seem particularly good value, but the huge variety of skills needed to run it is a totally different matter.

Setting records – Still not meeting demand

Sales of motorhomes and campervans have reached record levels, according to the National Trade Council (NCC), as 16,608 new motorhomes have been purchased for the year up to this July, if you want the numbers.

That might not sound much, but it follows what has been an upward sales growth for a few years now. Recent factors have no doubt helped, not least the fact that we’re a nation of staycationers, however temporary that may be.

Plenty of folk have missed out on welcoming a new motorhome into their families, of course, and it’s hard not to see the situation staying like this for a while yet. My own feeling is that there are plenty of newcomers to motorhomes who’ve launched into buying one and, for whatever reason, may well be looking to sell it on in the next two years or so. Much as I’ve always loved the motorhome lifestyle, we have to realise it’s never going to be for everyone.

Motorhome for me?

Benimar Benivan 120 – That great value/spec thing

The van conversion market continues its upward rise, but it’s amazing what choice you can get. There’s everything from the likes of independent specialists IH, Murvi and Vantage to mainstream offerings from Auto-Sleepers, Auto-Trail, Elddis and Swift. Then there’s all manner of imported marques, including Adria, Chausson, Hymer, Knaus Malibu, Pilote, Rapido, Roller Team and plenty more.

The Benivan from Spain’s Benimar almost falls into the latter category, although it’s actually built here in the UK and has the kind of specification a UK motorhomer would expect.

A two-berth with a rear two-settee/transverse double bed set-up is also a particular favourite here in the UK. Across Europe they still tend towards permanent beds, even in a 6-metre long vehicle like this. Note the sliding door is on the UK nearside too.

It comes with Fiat’s 160bhp engine as standard, as opposed to a less powerful variant, and the specification really does set it apart from a considerable list of rivals at this, the supposed budget end of the van conversion market.

With a solar panel, gas tank, Xzent stereo, satnav, rear camera system, oven and grill… it packs a real kit punch. Go compare, is what I say. With prices starting at £51,995, it’s Beni good value!

Three good: Favoured floorplan, top value kit levels and 2022 enhancements
One bad: Fiat auto option is expensive.
Perfect for: Measuring what you get for your money
Also consider: Auto-Trail Expedition 67, Swift Select 122

Dog days for the Club?

The Caravan and Motorhome Club reckons a whopping 17 per cent of its members got a new dog during lockdown, which in turn has affected touring habits. Although it hasn’t stopped folk travelling as far and wide as possible with their pooches. Maybe not abroad so much, of course, or indeed Northern Ireland. I speak from recent experience – it’s a nightmare!

When I worked for (ahem) the Other Club, we used to have a saying that a third of members had dogs and loved them, another third didn’t have dogs but were happy to tolerate them on site, and the final third really didn’t want dogs ruining their holidays. In other words, it pays to be considerate… or tolerant… depending on your point of view.

Have you ever considered a themed road trip?

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Since this year is the summer of staycations, just about everyone is planning a road trip, but have you thought about centring your next caravan or motorhome adventure around a theme?

CarParts4Less has put together a list of road trips based around a variety of themes to appeal to everyone from Potterheads to football fans.

The Harry Potter route – 449 miles

Setting out from London and taking in York on the way up to Edinburgh, this route features a number of iconic locations from the Harry Potter series of books and films.

In London, there’s of course Platform 9 ¾ at Kings Cross Station, as well as the Warner Brothers Harry Potter studios, while The Shambles in York was the inspiration for Diagon Alley.

Don’t forget to seek out the grave of Tom Riddle in Edinburgh once you’ve pitched your caravan or motorhome.

The period drama route – 404 miles

Soak up the grandeur of some of England’s most impressive stately homes as you drive your leisure vehicle around Greenwich, Hampshire, Frome, Cheshire and Bakewell.

Your route will include Highclere Castle, which featured in Downton Abbey, as well as Orchardleigh House, where the 2006 retelling of Tess of the D’Urbervilles was filmed.

Finally, channel your inner Elizabeth Bennett or Mr Rochester at Chatsworth House, where scenes for Pride and Prejudice and Jane Eyre have both been shot.

The literary locations route – 401 miles

Beginning in Yorkshire and heading south, there are literary references dotted all over this potential road trip, which takes you to Whitby, Haworth, Stratford-upon-Avon, Oxford and East Sussex.

Enjoy the gothic horror of Whitby, where Bram Stoker’s Dracula first landed in England, before heading to the moors around Haworth, which are otherwise known as Bronte country.

Stratford is, of course, the land of William Shakespeares, while Oxford boasts links to Phillip Pullman and J R R Tolkien, and East Sussex is home to Winnie the Pooh’s beloved 100 Acre Wood.

The royal palaces route – 160 miles

Follow in the footsteps of royalty as you take in their residences in London, Windsor and Sandringham in your trusty caravan or motorhome.

No fan of the Queen could resist a stop at Buckingham Palace, while the glittering crown jewels at the Tower of London must be seen to be believed.

Meanwhile, take the Long Walk down to Windsor Castle for spectacular views of the Queen’s favoured residence and stop by the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, where many a royal Christmas has been celebrated.

The football stadium route – 800 miles

This is the ultimate road trip for any football fan, taking in Premier League stadiums from Norwich to Newcastle with London, Watford, Brighton, Southampton, Leicester, Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Liverpool, Manchester, Burnley and Leeds in between.

Whichever team you support it’s always interesting to see the pitches at other clubs, stand in the footsteps of sporting giants and experience the locations where home fans like to celebrate wins and drown their sorrows.

From Carrow Road to St James’ Park, you’ll see a lot of the country through its proudest monuments to sport.

A spokesperson for CarParts4Less, said: “Road trips are such a great way to see large areas of the country, and are a great holiday option for individuals and families who want to see and do a little more during their summer breaks.

“We hope that these themed tours offer some inspiration for anyone, no matter what your interest. Whether you do the trip in a couple of days, or a couple of weeks, they’re sure to keep you interested and engaged.”

 

 

 

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Karl Moran

Caravans, motorhomes and campers barred from standby queues for Scottish ferries

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Holidaymakers travelling to the Scottish islands with their caravan, motorhome or campervan must have a reservation in advance to take a ferry.

State-owned ferry company CalMac has made the move to ban leisure vehicles from its standby queues in response to frustration from islanders, who have found the services overwhelmed.

Reduced capacity on the ferries due to the pandemic, as well as a number of breakdowns and cancellations have put extra pressure on the boats between the mainland and the islands.

This has been exacerbated by the uptick in demand for Scottish staycations, as many have taken to caravans and motorhomes instead of trips abroad.

Many ferry routes have been booked up for months and standby queues are reaching unprecedented lengths.

This makes it almost impossible for islanders to make urgent or short-notice crossings to the mainland for essential reasons and supplies.

Islanders who own a leisure vehicle will be exempt from the ban, but the advice is for those without a reservation not to plan to travel.

Local council authorities are also warning motorhome and caravan owners not to expect to pitch up at a campsite on spec, as most are fully booked.

Alasdair Allan, the MSP for the Western Isles, told the Guardian: “I have been receiving reports of motorhomes parking in the standby queues at ports overnight, exploiting the fact they are able to sleep in their vehicles and queue ahead of everyone else.

“This isn’t what the turn-up-and-go tickets are supposed to be for, and I am glad to see this particular loophole closed.”

Larger than usual numbers of people staycationing in leisure vehicles this year due to Covid travel restrictions puts more pressure on local amenities and infrastructure.

It’s up to the caravanning community to make sure they act responsibly and leave no trace behind.

 

 

 

Photo credit: Pixabay/Rogers-Fotodesign

5 alternative road trips to the NC500

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Road tripping in a caravan, motorhome or campervan is high up on the list of staycation activities this summer and Scotland’s North Coast 500 (NC500) is set to be among the most popular routes.

While the 516-mile circuit takes in some stunning locations in a loop beginning and ending in Inverness, it’s by no means the only route in Scotland to serve up beautiful scenery and activities in nature.

Ed Bassett, head of wanderlust at Camptoo, said: “Bookings show that Scotland’s NC500 route continues to be hugely popular, but we would encourage those looking to take a Scottish staycation to look further afield and head to the less obvious areas to avoid overcrowding, traffic congestion and overwhelming local resources.

“Van travel makes it even easier to go at your own pace, stop off at your favourite pit stops, and take in the sights, all from the comfort of your vehicle. Head off the beaten track this summer for a truly unforgettable Scottish adventure. Just be sure to pack the mozzie spray!”

So, where does Mr Bassett recommend? Here’s a lowdown of the five trips he suggests offer good alternatives to the NC500.

Motorhome parked up in ScotlandPerthshire Tourist Route

A good option for anyone short on time, the Perthshire Tourist Route is just 43 miles and starts a little bit north of the town of Dunblane. But what it lacks in length it makes up for in scenery, as it winds its way through the ever-changing landscapes of the heart of Scotland.

Fife Coastal Route

Following the coastline along the Firth of Forth, this 77-mile route offers caravanners a bit of everything. Soak up the charm of small fishing villages, try to spot red squirrels at Devilla Forest and visit the final resting place of Robert the Bruce at Dunfermline Abbey.

Moray Firth Route

Set out from Inverness and discover some of the most untouched parts of Scotland as you travel to Loch Fleet, taking in the Beauly Firth, Cromarty Firth and Dornoch Firth along the way. Across 80 miles of driving, you’ll be treated to rugged landscapes contrasted with glittering waters, showcasing the true beauty of Scotland.

SnowRoads

There may not be snow on the peaks at this time of year, but you can still expect 90 miles of world-class scenery as you make your way through Perthshire, Aberdeenshire, Moray Speyside, and the Highlands. The route starts in the picture-perfect market town of Blairgowrie and offers plenty of opportunities to try locally sourced refreshments.

The Shire Route of The Coig

The Coig is a collection of five driving routes and the one Mr Bassett suggests taking is The Shire, which stretches for 138 miles. Enjoy beaches, harbours and stately homes as you drive between Irvine in the north, Ballantrae in the south and New Cumnock in the east. Be sure not to miss the 19th century Turnburry Point Lighthouse, with its awe-inspiring views across to the Isle of Arran.

Mr Bassett added: “Scotland’s topography makes it a fantastic road trip experience, from wild woodland to dramatic coastline, rugged mountains and green glens, not to mention an impressive number of lochs and castles.

“Our current booking data shows that Scotland is the most popular UK destination for campervan holidays this summer – outperforming typical holiday hotspots like Cornwall and the Lake District.”

New apprentice follows in his dad’s footsteps to become a campervan converter

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A Scottish teenager is following his father into the business of converting VW vans into campers, as he takes on the role of apprentice at an employee-owned firm.

Calum Winter is just 16, but he’s already completed a four-year training programme with Jerba Campervans in North Berwick and is now starting to work for the company having finished school.

Knox Academy, where he studied, encouraged him to apply for the position and pursue a career around his passion for carpentry.

Mr Winter is being mentored by lead carpenter Ian Adkins, and is about to finish his first campervan interior fit out since joining the firm.

He said: “I’ve always liked working with my hands; for years I have been riding and repairing trials motorcycles, and so when I was told about this opportunity I knew this was a great chance for me to pursue this passion of mine further.

“I am discovering new tools and practices that I haven’t used or done before, and cutting, scribing and preparing all the furniture has been a big task which made me a bit nervous at the beginning.

“However, Ian has been supporting me every step of the way, so I’ve been getting to grips with things relatively quickly.”

The apprentice’s dad, Alan Winter, has been operations manager at Jerba Campervans since 2018, but didn’t know his son had applied for the position until he’d been given the role.

He said he’s very proud of Calum for having secured the job and is pleased he’s getting an opportunity to learn and develop the craft.

The young Mr Winter expressed how good it feels to build vehicles that fulfil the dreams of those who buy them.

Jerba Campervans is the only business in Scotland officially recognised by Volkswagen as a Motorhome Qualified Converter.

Irish Ferries welcomes motorhome owners on board its Dover to Calais service

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Holidaymakers no longer need to quarantine after returning from France, opening up the country to the opportunity to explore in your motorhome or caravan this summer. Irish Ferries is keen to invite guests onboard its new Dover to Calais service now that France has been moved to the UK’s amber list.

Marie McCarthy, passenger sales manager at Irish Ferries, told CaravanTimes: “Irish Ferries is delighted to finally welcome British caravan and motorhome owners on board Irish Ferries’ sailings to France. As the newest operator on the route, we’re providing an alternative option for travellers heading to the continent this summer and beyond.

“At Irish Ferries, we believe the holiday experience begins as soon as you leave the house. After packing all the holiday essentials into your car, caravan, or motorhome, set off to Dover Port and enjoy our smooth boarding process, before relaxing whilst on your journey to France. Travelling on the fully-refurbished Isle of Inishmore, passengers can make full use of the upgraded Club Class Lounge, with spectacular 360-degree sea views and dedicated seating.”

Ferries and caravan or motorhome holidays have always gone well together. The two modes of transport are particularly compatible when it comes to exploring destinations in Europe, where you can drive straight off the ferry and spend weeks travelling between the continent’s network of touring sites.

Many Brits have been wary of international travel since the pandemic and have bought leisure vehicles as an alternative to getting away. It does not have to be a case of either a foreign holiday or a caravan staycation, though, as the two can be effectively combined together.

Ms McCarthy added: “We know caravan and motorhome holidays have become increasingly popular over the last year, and now holidaymakers have the option to go beyond a staycation and extend their travels to a nearcation – reaching France by ferry in just 90 minutes.

“Europe offers a plethora of incredible road trips, with particularly memorable routes across France, Italy, Switzerland and Spain, all an achievable distance from Calais Port. Irish Ferries has competitive pricing, from £69 per car + driver, one way with a supplement of £130 for caravans under 8m in length. We look forward to welcoming you on board soon.”

Irish Ferries operates up to ten crossings a day, with plenty of entertainment options to enjoy, as well as free Wi-Fi. Its Travel Safe programme allows guests to check in from their own car and the option of booking a private cabin. Spacious communal areas and outdoor decks allow for social distancing and the chance to breathe in the fresh sea air.

 

 

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Lucas Miguel

Nick’s News – Embarking on a Grand Tour, meeting the Mertons and the Adria Alpina Mississippi

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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 week

We are getting ready for our Grand Tour, as our month-long campervan travels kick off this weekend with a week in Pembrokeshire. I’m particularly looking forward to visiting St Davids, and for the record, there is no apostrophe in the city’s name.

Sorry, you can take the campervan out of the journalist but you can’t take the journalist out of the campervan! We’ve got stays booked at the charming, secluded Mill House Caravan Park near Saundersfoot and the Camping and Caravanning Club’s site near St Davids itself. And that’s just the start.

In the news

Meet the Mertons – and their motorhome

Channel 5’s new TV series, Motorhoming with Merton and Webster looks like a wonderful view of how newcomers tackle the leisure vehicle lifestyle. OK, not many of us are lucky enough to plunge straight in with a Roller Team Pegaso A-class, but there’s a good dose of reality here as husband-and-wife comedians Paul Merton and Suki Webster try things out on an extensive UK tour.

Wales and the Lake District are high on their list of favourite destinations, and they also go to the Peak District, Norfolk, Somerset, Suffolk and more, making it a proper tour. They both obviously struck up an instant rapport with fellow campsite users, helping to reinforce the fact that motorhomers and caravanners really are among the friendliest and most helpful folk you can meet.

Catch future episodes on Fridays at 8pm.

Motorhome sales add up for Abacus

Andover-based Abacus, which is best known as a general vehicle hire company that also has a fleet of motorhomes, has been appointed a retailer for Adria motorhomes. Abacus has also expanded its service centre operations.

It all sounds like a great move for both organisations. I’m a big fan of try-before-you-buy, so with Adrias joining the fleet and the showroom, hiring a particular model is an ideal way to see if you really like the motorhome way of life, as well as a specific layout. Plus, of course, you get a much better deal if you subsequently go ahead and make a purchase.

There’s now a dedicated motorhome sales location on Hawker Siddeley Way at Andover Business Park, which is well worth a visit if you’re thinking about buying.

Be SAFE when you go for a tow

Good, sound advice has been issued from trade body the National Caravan Council (NCC) via its Approved Workshop Scheme for caravan and motorhome workshops. It’s supporting the Driver and Vehicle Standard Agency’s SAFE campaign for safe towing.

What’s SAFE? It’s a simple checklist to help create awareness of what to do before you take to the roads:

S – has it been Serviced recently?
A – have you got enough Air in your tyres? Check pressure, tread depth and condition.
F – have you Fitted the breakaway cable and checked electrical connections and cables?
E – what are your lights looking like, have you Examined them properly?

Check load and weight limit, mirrors and do the jockey wheel test before you travel. It’s definitely particularly pertinent for those who are new to towing a caravan. But it’s a great reminder for the rest of us too.

Caravan crush

Adria Alpina Mississippi – turning up the glamInterior of the Adria Alpina Mississippi

Not many caravans make you go wow, so here’s an exception. The 2022 version of Adria’s twin axle Alpina Mississippi turns the style dial up to 11. The sleek, silver bodywork, with its wind-cheating grab handles, is just the start.

You’ll love – or not, it’s entirely up to you – the details. Everything from the branded natural wood chopping board and sink cover and the kitchen’s storage rails to the tiny-but-powerful reading lamps on rails and the storage crates in the full-width front locker.

With its transverse island bed, full-width end washroom floorplan proving such a favourite across the UK, here’s a futuristic tourer whose time has come.

Three good: Great style, build quality and storage solutioms
Two bad: Hefty (like, 2,000kg hefty) and not for the shy and retiring
Perfect for… The avant garde
Consider also: Buccaneer Cruiser, Coachman Lusso 2 or Swift Elegance 580