It’s the time of year when everyone begins to look forward to their annual summer holiday, but that also means making sure you have all the practicalities covered. If you’re planning a trip to one or more of the other EU countries this year, there are a number of things you need to consider before setting off.

Check Your Insurance

Don’t automatically assume that because you belong to an EU member country, that you have the same insurance cover as you have here in the UK.

Check with your insurer as many premiums only cover you in your home country, which means that you may need an additional EU cover for the duration of your trip. This is especially the case for caravan owners. Although your insurance will allow European travel, there may be restrictions in place, such as the length of a journey. GoCompare provide more advice on caravan insurance.

Drive On The Correct Side Of The Road

If you have never driven in the EU before, you may need reminding that in the majority of EU countries people drive on the right hand side of the road. It may seem a bit confusing at first, but you’ll soon get used to the idea.

Check Your Driving Licence

Whether you plan on taking your own vehicle or you intend to hire a car when you reach your destination, you need to ensure that you take both parts of your driving licence with you when you travel.

If you are looking to hire a car once you hit the continent, be aware that you will now need to obtain a special code from the DVLA prior to travelling. This new measure is set to replace the paper part of your licence and it will show hire companies any previous driving offences that you may have, such as speeding.

It is also worth bearing in mind that the code will only last for 72 hours, so if you intend to hire a car later on in your trip you will need to generate a new code while you are away.

Know The Rules Of The Road

Countries such as Spain have stricter laws on speeding, particularly in the towns and cities, so make sure you watch out for speed limit notices. Speeds limits vary across Europe. Caravan Talk provide a useful guide to speed limits for cars with and without caravans.

It’s advisable to check out the rules of the road in whichever country you’ll be driving in as some things are different. It’s also advisable to check out any other rules that pertain locally – and remember if you are travelling with a child under the age of twelve, you still need a dedicated car seat.

What Should You Carry?

Countries have different rules on the extra things that drivers need to carry with them. If you are planning to drive through France, for example, then all drivers have to carry with them a portable breathalyser. You could be liable for a fine if you don’t carry this equipment with you. Read more about driving through France here. In Spain, Belgium and France, you must carry a high visibility jacket, and in some countries you must carry a fire extinguisher.

Make Sure Your Car Is In Top Condition

If you do plan on taking your own vehicle with you then it’s wise to have your car serviced before your holiday.

Be Prepared In Case Of Breakdown

The same thing applies to breakdown cover as it does to the rest of your insurance policy. While you may have cover for a breakdown in the UK, you may need extra cover if you are driving abroad.

Health Insurance

Remember to take your EU health card. It will cover you for minor ailments, so it’s well worth taking it with you.

Specialist Travel Insurance

If you suffer from a chronic health condition then it’s sensible to get cover from a specialist firm like Avanti Travel Insurance. Your health card will cover minor conditions, but if you need treating in hospital it could be very expensive without the right travel insurance.

Sort Your Sat-Nav

If you have satellite navigation in your vehicle then you need to check whether it will cover the country you are going to. Getting lost is a nuisance, but getting lost in a foreign country could be dangerous.

Being aware of these things before you set off will help you to get the most out of your trip and keep your time on the road stress-free. Happy caravanning!

Static caravans are great at utilising space – they’re a brilliant home from home. They’re usually nestled among other similar abodes, most likely on designated parks, meaning space is at a premium though.

Trimetals produce a range of maintenance free weather proof storage solutions for neatly stowing your gear. Resistant to the elements and easily secured these lock ups are great for stashing gardening kit, bikes and various other belongings.

Delivered in flat pack form it only requires a few simple scissor snips to break out the fundamental pieces of the structure. Then it’s just a case of following the step by step guide to erect.

Full of kit!

Although there isn’t anything too taxing about boshing together the Trimetals storage box there was a little surprise by the lack of inclusive tools. Having accumulated the necessary implements for the job in hand two of us set about knocking this oversized piece of Mechano together. After a while, although the instructions were always referenced to double check, it became obvious how the box was formed and we raced ahead.

Basics in place

The simple process of jointing sides together, bolting reinforcing struts into place and making sure nuts were tight was a relatively quick and simple process. The stiff nature of the threads was the only fly in the ointment. If there hadn’t been two of us it would have been a fiddly job to secure each metal piece.

An ingeniously simple part of the design is the spring loaded door – a concertinaed up and over mechanism allows less burly mortals to gain access with ease. Having made the structure sturdy it’s a simple matter of fixing locking brackets in place and hey presto, a secure, weather proof outdoor storage option – perfect for those who own a static caravan.

Nearly there!

The walk in nature of the lockup is a great piece of thoughtful design. Lift the lid and it’s easy to grab your essentials without having to stoop too much. Two padlock points will give piece of mind to owners wanting added security while the PVC coated galvanised/fire resistant steel construction ensure it’s maintenance and hassle free. Compact yet roomy enough to accommodate sizeable objects, these storage boxes are great for static home owners or those with general lock up issues at home.

All finished and looking lovely.

For more info on the Trimetals range head over to www.trimetals.co.uk

There are a selection of products out there to remedy the issues caused by uneven pitches such as level ramps and an aluminium leveller which is placed under the uneven wheel to ‘jack’ it up to a reasonable level. The jack device is preferred by those who want a better position of control and aren’t that comfortable trying to tow their caravan onto what is quite a small ramp.

Users must ensure when using the ramp leveller that they pull forward the caravan onto it, not try and reverse onto it. When you reserves a caravan up onto a ramp you effectively have no brakes therefore when you pull forward your brakes are still operational and when you put your handbrake on you have full grip. If you are attempting to level out your caravan on grass ideally you want as a wide a ramp as possible to spread the load and prevent the ramp sinking into the grass which doesn’t achieve the objective.

The Aluminium Leveller is essentially a cradle which is placed either side of the wheel and is then wound up like a jack to level out the caravan. The lever is practical as it is light, easy to carry around and can lift the caravan a good 8/9inches off the ground. The only downside of this piece of kit is that it does take some time to wind up however to the unconfident tower this is an acceptable compromise.

There are a few ways to test that the caravan is level once you have evened it out by eye. Some owners are confident that placing a glass of water on the floor of the caravan is an acceptable way to measure the level whereas other, more precise owners will opt for the twin spirit level to examine their work.

‘Extreme’ weather conditions are something we often take for granted in the UK, and although we don’t quite have US-style hurricanes knocking on our door, we still occasionally get enough gusto to do some serious property damage.

The eastern part of the UK is currently being battered by the second biggest storm of this winter. Accompanying the gale force winds, snow and driving rain is an expected storm surge that could cause widespread flooding and damage across coastal towns and villages along the North Sea coast.

Storm surges happen during high tides. Swell, wind and incoming water amplify what would usually happen – at worse these volumes of water will breach sea defences, burst river/estuary banks and engulf low lying land.

Unfortunately many of our caravan and camping parks are located in these susceptible areas and there are certain times of year your holiday home could be at risk from flood damage or extreme weather breakages.

If you leave your caravan parked up during the off season or own a static that’s permanently anchored to a pitch its’ always worth following a few tips for the winter in the event of harsh weather – leaving your caravan exposed and prone to Mother Nature’s moods is never a wise choice.

• Make sure all fly away objects are secure and tidied away. If you can, move outdoor furniture indoors or lock it away in a storage unit.
• Unplug all electrical devices and raise them up off the floor.
• Turn all electricity and gas supplies off.
• Bed linen should be stored in overhead cupboards, as should blankets and any other fabric garments.
• Make sure things like TV aerials are secure or take them down and move inside.
• Uncouple gas bottles and lock away in a safe place.
• Secure you caravan with tethers to avoid it tipping over in strong winds.
• Remove anything valuable and take home.
• Monitor severe weather warnings during bouts of harsh conditions. If your area is affected then heed advice and take precautionary action.

Most of these tips are common sense and owners will carry them out as a par for the course. If you’re faced with a situation such as the one today – the biggest storm surge in the last 60 years – then you should prepare for the worst.

• Make sure your insurance cover is up to date.
• Understand the details of your documentation and change your policy in advance if you can.
• Try not to leave things until the last minute.

If your caravan and belongings are affected during fierce weather then you’ll need to assess damage as soon as conditions allow and act accordingly – let your insurance companies know as soon as possible. Getting the ball moving quickly will mean you’re (hopefully) out of pockets for less time.

Let us know in the comments below if you have any further tips for how to protect and/or minimise problems caused by severe weather.

(Images via Daily Mail/ABACA, BBC/Andrew Smith and ITV)

Over 400 companies aired their wares at this year’s event and all manufactures reported good levels of sales.

NCC Events who organise the exhibition were over the moon after another record was set as foot fall exceeded 2012. From C4 Caravans’ point of view it was certainly busy with a thronging crowd all vying for viewings of the latest caravan and related products.

TV presenter Mel Sykes and pro chef Ed Baines did their best to keep crowds entertained in the expert’s theatre while caravan companies such as Elddis, Swift, Bailey and Coachman reported keen interest from the public. Some manufactures were ecstatic regarding sales at the event – some recorded upwards of 200 models sold.

One of the biggest reasons for visiting the Motorhome and Caravan Show are the deals you can get on new caravans and products. Long gone are the days of ugly beasts; in their place are well designed, light, innovative and desirable models that anyone would be happy to own.

This has obviously been reflected in the volume of sales at the show and John Lally, director general of the National Caravan Council said: “We’re obviously very pleased to have achieved another record breaking attendance, but our real measure of success is the quality of customers we are able to attract to the show and the experience those customers have when they get here.

“The display of product in the halls was unrivalled. They were the lightest, most innovative, well designed and well specified models we have seen for many years and this is reflected in the volume of sales.”

Wandering around the huge exhibition it was plain to see that visitors weren’t just there for browsing purposes. Many wanted to buy, some wanted to check out product before parting with hard earned cash and others seemed to be teeing up caravan paraphernalia for when the time was right. Whatever the situation, the industry seems to be in a good state and hopefully signals how everything will pan out moving forwards.

The C4 Caravans team came across plenty of models we’d happily own with many boasting price tags that seemed very reasonable. If you didn’t get chance to make the journey to the NEC then we’ve no doubt the show will be returning next year so there’s always 2014.

Reflecting on this year’s Motorhome and Caravan Show; the future is looking extremely bright. The good weather of 2013 has obviously had an impact on the caravan industry but it’s certainly looking like a return to higher levels of popularity and growth. Fingers crossed for 2014…

(images via https://www.facebook.com/neccaravanshow)

Caravanners wanting to head off and get their fangs stuck into a spooky Halloween gathering or light up their Bonfire Night will be well served by the many organised celebrations around the UK. Here’s a pick of top things to do this Halloween and Bonfire night around the UK.

Spooktober Fest/Shocktober Fest/Fireworks Festival (West Sussex)

Tulley’s Farm, West Sussex, has all manner of seasonal entertainments to give you frights, scares, pops and bangs. Run by the Beare family, this third generation farm close to Gatwick has a number of goings on suitable for families and groups alike (They also reputedly make the best scones in the country!).

Halloween thrill seekers can experience the Spooktober Festival Fun Park – a lighter take on the scare you witless adult orientated Shocktober Fest. Both events feature live actors, plenty of fake blood, fangs, ghosts, ghouls and witches – all aiming to put the willies up you.

Spooktober Festival has the Horrid Hayride, Creepy Cottage, Boo Barn, Spooky Trail, Spook Hunt and fun shows for younger visitors to enjoy. In contrast the horror ramps up for the six haunted attractions on offer at the Shocktober Fest Scream Park. Winner of the UK’s No. 1 Halloween Attraction at the Screame Awards; the thrills and spills come thick and fast with live actors, claustrophobia inducing tight spaces, dark chasms, strobe lighting and the frights of your life.

November 2^nd then sees proceedings switch to a less heart pounding (but no less spectacular) whizz, pop, fizz and bang firework festival. The award winning Dragon Fireworks Display Team will be serving up a gun powder and neon feast for your senses – all beautifully choreographed to music.

There’s a wide choice of caravan and campsites in the area all within a short distance of Tulley’s Farm.  Amberley Fields Caravan Club is just 15 minutes’ drive away from the event site.

For more information on any of the events at Tulleys, check out tulleysfarm.com.

Spooky drive-in cinema/Firework celebrations (South Shields)

Ocean Beach Pleasure Park, South Shields, has a number of seasonal ‘dos’ that are perfect for getting away with your family this October/November.

For Halloween, Ocean Beach is laying on an American style drive in cinema that will be showing a selection of spooky movies. Each night two films will be aired with something on offer for everyone – kids, teens and adults will all be able to watch movies that fit the seasonal theme. Even those who don’t care for scary movies will find something suitable as Ocean Beach are aiming to cater for all.

A large screen will be erected that flicks will be projected onto. Viewers will then be able tune their FM radios to the sound. Lots of tasty snack and refreshments will be on offer and the Ocean Beach Drive In Halloween Movie Experience runs from 31^st October – 2^nd November.

For fireworks nuts, Sunday 3^rd October sees the famed end of season display take to the skies; and the great news? There’ll be two showings meaning everyone can get their explosive light show fix.

Those thinking of trekking to South Shields will find a plethora of caravan options available in the area. Sandhaven Holiday Park is located right on the coast and only two minutes away from Ocean Beach Pleasure Park.

For more information and prices check out oceanbeach.co.uk.

Halloween at the Eden Project (Cornwall)

Cornwall has long been associated with spooky goings on, smugglers tales and things that go bump in the night. When a sea mist rolls in and a devil’s moon bathes Bodmin Moor in eerie light, those ghosts and ghouls come out to play.

The Eden Project has a special calendar of Halloween themed events running from 26^th October – 3^rd November. Welcoming Julia Donalson and Axel Scheffler’s Room on the Broom; wee ones will be able to gather key ingredients for boiling up a witch like potion earning them a ticket to see the film in the process. However, they’ll need their wits about them as the dragon will be watching (apparently)!

The Wishcraft Tent will have a number of fun things to keep everyone entertained. Boiling up a special Halloween elixir, creating a protection charm, putting your hand in Creepy Hollow, dark storytelling, pumpkin carving demonstrations, face painting and saying hello to some amazing nocturnal creatures – reasons to visit The Eden Project this Halloween.

Little Monsters’ Ball Halloween disco will be happening on Tuesday 29^th and Wednesday 30^th October. Dolling yourself up in spooky fancy dress and enjoying the bone shaking tunes in the Olive Grooveyard is sure to set off your Halloween in style.

For those searching for a scarier experience; Thursday 31^st October and Friday 1^st November is when visitors can experience the haunted Bio-dome. Rainforest spirits will be coming out to play and aiming to give you a fright while you explore the tropics in complete darkness. Due to the terrifying nature it’s advised that under 12s or faint hearted types should sit this one out.

For those heading to Par, Cornwall, then you’ll be spoilt for choice with the caravan and campsites on offer. Doubletrees Farm Caravan and Campsite is about 10 minutes’ drive away from the Eden Project meaning you won’t have to far to travel to get your thrills.

For more information about Halloween happenings at the Eden Project, the head over to edenproject.com.

There are plenty of other Halloween and Bonfire Night events going on all around the country. Have a search online and you’ll no doubt find something that appeals – most being perfect for combining with a caravan break.

The exhibition gives visitors chance to inspect and browse brand new 2014 motorhome, holiday home, trailer tent, folding caravan, traditional caravan and other associated caravan products from leading UK and European manufacturers and dealers. These literally will be hot off the production line.

Attractions

Throughout the exhibition there will be a whole host of attractions and events happening to keep avid caravan visitors entertained.

There’ll be the chance to enjoy the experts’ advice and cookery theatre where celebrity chefs will be demoing and showing off their culinary skills. The panel of experts will be dishing advice to help with boshing out your next edible masterpiece.

There’ll be a free awning fitting service, a towing experience, motorhome manoeuvring tuition, the Tow Car of the Year try-before-you-buy experience, Worldwide Escapes presentations and much more!

Onsite camping

For those who want to stay over then it wouldn’t be cricket if there weren’t onsite camping facilities. The Caravan Club will be running a ‘pitch up’ area for those who want to make a few days of the exhibition. And to keep all youcaravan dwellers content there’ll be a nightly programme of entertainment – music every evening, what could be better?

Pitches are all electric and £30 per night.

Bailey Approach Compact

There’s a long list of exhibitors at this year’s Caravan and Motorhome Show so all caravan tastes will be catered for.

Worthy of special mention is Bailey’s of Bristol who will be showcasing their new compact motorhome – the Approach Compact. This is the companies attempt at servicing those who are searching for more affordable and efficient motorhomes in the wake of the economic downturn.

Bailey’s new vehicle is an ultra-low profile lightweight AL-KO AMC chassis that provides a lower centre of gravity with more balanced weight distribution. This gives better stability and improved breaking efficiency. Bailey offers two clever internal layouts which maximises the space within the design.

Visitors can check out the new Bailey Approach Compact during the show.

Added value

Not only is the Motorhome and Caravan Show a chance for brands to exhibit their new designs, it’s also where associated businesses can get in front of their relevant audience.

There will be free help and advice on all aspects of caravan and motorhome finance, insurance and security. You’ll also find opinion as to what are the best towing vehicles on the market, accessories such as awnings, porches, caravan movers and satellite TV systems.

For those who venture off far and wide in their caravan or motorhome then the show boasts a dedicated holiday section where you’ll find information and exhibitors specialising in campsites, holiday parks and fly drive holidays to Australia, New Zealand and USA.

It’ll also be worth keeping your eyes peeled as a number of celebrities will be making an appearance, so, autograph book at the ready!

Offers galore

For the caravan bargain hunter out there you’ll have the chance to nab products at special show only prices.

In some cases the availability of each piece may be especially for the Motorhome and Caravan Show. Consumers will be able to get their mitts of kit before it officially hits retailers. Keep your eyes wide for all those offer goodies.

Holiday homes and lodges

The Motorhome and Caravan Show isn’t just about the portable accommodation type. Visitors will also get the opportunity to explore the latest holiday home and lodge productions from some of the leading manufacturers.

You’ll also get the chance to speak with operations staff from UK and European holiday parks, finance providers and those who can help with onsite services and facilities.

Pets

If you have your pet in tow then it’s worth noting that only guide and assistance dogs are allowed into the show and unfortunately there aren’t any day care facilities for animals.

So if you were planning on bringing Rover then he’ll need someone to look after him while you peruse the many stalls and exhibition stands in the arena.

Summing up

For the avid and enthusiastic caravanner then there really is no better place to view all the latest and greatest for helping you make the most of your ‘van holidays.

Get yourself along to this year’s Motorhome and Caravan Show for all that’s best in the world of mobile accommodation and beyond.

Tickets are still available, but selling fast. Hit up the website for purchasing online and more information at www.motorhomeandcaravanshow.co.uk.

On paper the Carvisio certainly looks like a high spec attractive bit of kit. Aerodynamically designed with towing specifically in mind this multifunctional caravan, with luxury yacht esque internal layout is as yet only to be seen in prototype version. The Caravisio’s most striking feature is the central control panel which is accessible through a number of smart phone and tablet apps.

The Caravisio has been produced in an effort to address the fact that most caravans, bar maybe the American classic Airstream, are actually ugly hulks of mass that do nothing except clog up roads and congregate in fields around the country. For avid enthusiasts, this is pure piffle as all are aware of the joys of caravanning.  Unfortunately the widely held common belief means the stigma is tough to shake.

Hey good lookin’!

With the Caravisio’s sleek and svelte lines, uber modern good looks and bold conceptualised use of technology the face of caravanning could be about to be given a massive overhaul and signal a return to those heady days of trundling off along the tarmac on your self-contained holy bobs.

The wind tunnel honed shape, modern yacht like interior, computer controlled air suspension – that self-levels – are traits that will see even the staunchest caravan critic green with envy should one rock onto a nearby campsite.

Perfect – inside and out

The inner depths of the design boasts teak flooring, a pair of V-shaped beds and a huge panoramic window that will let in lots of light and making owners feel at one with nature – ultimately the purpose of caravanning holidays.

Other innovations feature the articulating rear end which folds out as a sun deck and allows the whole internal shell to become more al fresco in nature – perfect for those lazy summer days with nothing but relaxation on the cards.

Owners will also be able to control the transparency of the rear door which also doubles as a projector display for watching your favourite movies and TV programmes. With its touch operated finger controlled scanner you’re one step away from the caravan equivalent of an Apple product – making the Caravisio very ‘now’ and on trend.

2014 – the year of the Caravisio?

Until the Knaus Tabbert Caravisio actually goes into production all caravan enthusiasts who are now excited at the prospect of this fantastic looking toy will have to wait. Currently doing the trade show rounds the production of the Caravisio will hit overdrive in 2014. The first production models will roll off the line, hopefully, in time for the new summer season next year.

For more information about the Knaus Tabbert Carivisio head over to facebook.com/caravisio.

All that remains now is to shoot off along that long and winding road to your destination of choice. But children are restless beings and after the initial excitement of being somewhere new. What’s to do?

The usual board games have been done to death, the Wii console has been left back at the ranch and near-6 weeks off school means the DS has been played to death. It’s time to think outside the box, get back to what it was like in days gone by and utilise your natural surroundings of the campsite and outdoors.

The National Trust recently ran a poll of 1,700 children and asked them to vote for their favourite outdoors holiday activities. So if you’re looking for some inspiration on how to keep your offspring amused then read on for the 50 things to do before you’re 11 and three quarters*.

*If you’re older than this then don’t let this stop you either!

• Climb a tree
• Camp out in the wild
• Build a den
• Skim a stone
• Run around in the rain
• Fly a kite
• Catch a fish with a net
• Eat an apple off the tree
• Play conkers
• Go on a really long bike ride
• Make a trail with sticks
• Make a mud pie
• Dam a stream
• Play in the snow (you might have some trouble in the Summer with this one, mind you, this is British weather…)
• Make a daisy chain
• Set up a snail race
• Create some wild art
• Play Pooh Sticks
• Jump over waves
• Pick wild blackberries
• Explore inside a tree
• Visit a farm
• Go on a barefoot walk
• Make a grass trumpet
• Hunt for fossils
• Star gaze
• Climb a huge hill
• Roll down  really big hill
• Explore a cave
• Hold a scary beast (spiders, etc)
• Hunt for bugs
• Find frogspawn
• Catch a falling leaf
• Track wild animals
• Discover what’s in a pond
• Make a wild animal home (more spiders)
• Go rock pooling
• Bring up a butterfly
• Catch a crab
• Go on a night nature walk
• Plant something, grow it and eat it (this takes time… maybe start now and finish next year?)
• Swim in the sea
• Build a raft (and stay safe when using it!)
• Go bird watching
• Find your way with a map and compass
• Rock climb (under supervision)
• Cook on a campfire (also under supervision)
• Go horse riding
• Find a geocache
• Go river canoeing/kayking

And if you’re feeling really brave, you can download the whole check list from the National Trust website and do the lot in one weekend!

There are of course plenty more things that you can get up to while away on your annual caravanning holiday. With a little imagination who knows what adventures you and your kids will have. Enjoy the bank holiday!

Described by the Daily Mail as ‘draconian demands’, German MEP Werner Kuhn argues that regular checks need to be enforced to make sure that any caravan entering the continent is up to the task and won’t be a hazard to other road users.

An economic blow?

The UK Caravan Club, which has over 375,000 members has hit back fiercely though stating the majority of caravan owners are actually families with children who wouldn’t dream of putting their offspring at risk through bad maintenance.

Fears are that the introduction of such laws will have a negative impact on tourism in the UK, where caravanning is seen as an affordable and cost effective way for many families to enjoy a well-earned break. If tourism gets hit then the overall economy could then be negatively impacted upon which could spell disaster.

It’s reported that caravanners spend in excess of £40 million with local business and providers during the seasonal getaway, but with increased maintenance costs people may feel this isn’t an affordable holiday and numbers could drop.

A spokesperson for the Caravan Club told the Daily Mail: “Caravanning is inherently very safe, with extremely low levels of reported accidents, and the overwhelming majority of accidents which do occur are caused by factors such as poor loading  – causing instability – and driver behaviour, not by factors that would be mitigated by roadworthiness testing.”

No dice, as yet

Jacqueline Foster, a Tory MEP added: “There is no evidence to suggest that the inclusion of caravans – a £6billion pound industry in the UK – and light commercial trailers would benefit from a road safety angle.

“We should be encouraging our leisure and tourism industries, not penalising them.”

This comment came in the wake as the first wave of plans for the scheme were already passed in the European Parliament on 2nd July.  A number of British MEPs spoke out at this time but to no avail.

So far, the European Commission has refused to comment.

(Image via Flickr)