Tabla de contenidos para January 2022 en Practical Caravan

A caravan that features in our writer Andy Jenkinson’s Picks of the Month section this issue (p85) got me thinking. He spotted a used model that, 12 years on from when it first hit the road, is priced at just £150 less on the used market now than when new. That doesn’t allow for inflation, of course, but it’s an extraordinary thing all the same, and goes to show how well good caravans hold their value. No matter whether you’re buying for the long or short term, buying right is crucial – and that’s the thinking behind our Owner Satisfaction Awards (p51). Over the past 18 months, thousands of you have reported back on your new and used vans; with all the data, we’ve compiled a comprehensive round-up of the…

Weather and wildlife feature in the latest selection of your brilliant touring adventures! TAG US #PRACTICAL CARAVAN OR EMAIL LETTERS@PRACTICALCARAVAN.COM…

THIS ISSUE WE VISIT… PEMBROKESHIRE // PEAK DISTRICT // NEW FOREST // GALLOWAY In praise of our national treasures This truly is a green and pleasant land! A fact that is fully confirmed by some of the destinations featured in this month’s issue of Practical Caravan. In particular, I’d draw your attention to our feature on the UK’s 15 glorious National Parks (p22) – remarkable and hugely contrasting places, which deserve as much protection and promotion as we can give them. The Peak District was the first area to be designated a National Park, back in 1951, so I’m glad to say that we’ve also picked out 10 of the top campsites in that region (p30), all of which are well worth a visit. Whether you’re a hiker, a caver…

One of the very few good things to come out of the pandemic is the fact that we have all been forced to rethink where to go on our holidays. Living in South Wales, we began to consider fairly local destinations; less than a couple of hours away, say. It was fast approaching the end of the summer and we always love being by the sea, so for us, a visit to Pembrokeshire fitted the bill perfectly. The next decision was where to stay, so following our daughter’s advice from when she used to tour in a VW campervan, we settled on a small family-run site, Little Kings Holiday Park, in Ludchurch. And what a find that turned out to be! The travel could not have been easier – having…

We rumbled past great stacks of timber, piled high like matchsticks, the track then deteriorating into a bit of a quagmire, reducing our speed to little more than walking pace as we fought to keep our pedals turning. I glanced over at Mum, half expecting to see a look of disapproval; but instead she wore a smile as wide as the loch we had passed just moments before. This might not have been the trip she imagined when I told her we were off to Scotland for her birthday – or perhaps it was, given my recent history of present buying – but she was clearly revelling in the adventure. Working on the basis that she has now reached a stage in life where she can buy anything she wants…

Bumper sales bump up prices These really are times like no other. First we have caravan manufacturers and dealers all reporting bumper sales, thanks to the impact of the pandemic and associated lockdowns. Now we have manufacturers announcing unprecedented price rises, apparently for pretty much the same reason. I don’t think this will lead to a dampening of the boom we have seen in caravanning, partly because caravans are by no means the only industry affected. (The same thing is happening with motorhome base vehicles.) Given the rises only appear to apply to orders yet to be made, if you’ve already bought your van, and are waiting for delivery, you should be able to sit back and relax. peter.baber@futurenet.com Reviews editor PETER BABER is a hugely experienced caravanner who enjoys…

The Department for Transport should pause the roll-out of all-lane running motorways until a full five years of safety data is available on those that have been built, a committee of MPs is demanding. The Transport Committee wants to see a pause in such motorways, which have no hard shoulder and so can lead to breakdowns in lanes that caravans are likely to use, because their safety data is currently limited. Only 29 of the 112 miles built before 2020 have five years of safety data. The committee said safety improvements recommended in its 2016 report have not been implemented, even with the Government accelerating the safety roll-out. The report also claims the Government’s decision in 2020 to make all future smart motorways all-lane running systems was “premature”. It claims…

From the Lake District, Cambrian Mountains and Scottish Highlands, to the Brecon Beacons, the Peak District and the Yorkshire Dales (and many more such places in between), we really are spoilt for choice when it comes to cycling-friendly destinations in the UK. Load the bikes and prepare to enjoy the green hills of home – here are just a few great trails to explore. 1 APPLECROSS PENINSULA Those familiar with the west coast of Scotland will know that this just has to be, without doubt, one of the most strikingly beautiful parts of the UK. A combination of rugged coast roads and quintessential highland landscapes makes for some dramatic riding, with the bonus of the challenging climb of Bealach na Bà for those who like heading upwards on their rides.…

Dealers still on the lookout for stock I was driving past a dealership the other day and noticed that their used stock had increased, so I decided to check this out. I discovered that the dealer had been constantly buying in tourers throughout the year. Actively buying in was ensuring that customers would always have some used models to choose from, my dealer friend informed me. He also forecast that, come early January, folk will be out looking for a caravan to buy. I reckon he will be right, and although the shows should be back – if the Covid-19 cases don’t go up, at any rate – the used caravan market is still going to be very buoyant. practical.caravan@futurenet.com ANDY JENKINSON is a caravan expert and historian – he…

THIS MONTH WE’RE TALKING ABOUT… VW GOLF ALLTRACK // 2022 TOW CARS // JAGUAR F-PACE Resolutions are far easier to make than to keep. This time last year, I seem to remember promising myself I would visit new places in 2021. Well, although I’ve been out and about more (who hasn’t?), my bucket list of destinations is much the same length as it was 12 months ago. Perhaps 2022 will be different. An epic towing road trip, covering the length of Britain, is in the planning stages, along with a trip to Germany’s Eifel Mountains in July. If international travel is easier, perhaps British holiday hotspots will be a little less crowded. The new touring season will be here before we know it, and I’m certainly looking forward to it!…

What will it tow? Kerbweight 1884kg Towing limit 2400kg Noseweight limit 100kg 85% match 1601kg Figures for 2016 3.0d V6 Running costs 3.0d V6 S auto Insurance group 42 Annual VED £140 Average economy 42.8mpg Interim/full service £110/£158 Servicing prices supplied by Servicing Stop, 0844 324 5262, www.servicingstop.co.uk Trouble spots The F-Pace has been recalled a number of times over the years. The first was for a software update to get the car to meet emissions standards. Then, the 3.0-litre diesels were recalled because of a faulty starter motor cable. Fuel leaks resulted in a couple of recalls, and dodgy driveshafts also caused a problem, as did a faulty crankshaft pulley retaining bolt. A full list of the vehicle’s recalls can be found at www.check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk…

> Kerbweight As defined by EU Directive 95/48/EC (which still applies), the car or other vehicle’s weight with a 90% full fuel tank, all necessary fluids, 68kg for the driver and 7kg of luggage. This is the figure that is used to calculate a towcar match > GTW (Gross train weight) The maximum allowable combined weight of the towing vehicle and the caravan, as specified by the maker of the towing vehicle > Hook-up Cable connection to the mains electrical supply at a campsite. Provides power to mains sockets and appliances > Maximum towing limit The greatest weight that a car can legally tow, as specified by the manufacturer of the towing vehicle > MiRO (Mass in running order) The caravan’s weight, with all factory-fitted equipment, when it leaves the…

This layout, with a transverse island bed and an end washroom, is one of the most popular in the current market. It is particularly favoured by those who are looking to use their caravan as a seasonal pitch. With the washroom tucked away like an en-suite, it almost feels like home. It might not be ideal if you travel frequently with younger children, however. Pros With no separating washroom, central area often feels very airy Cons The washroom isn’t very convenient for anyone sleeping in the front A Front lounge mustn’t be squeezed to make way for everything else in here B Even with the van’s airy centre, you might still want a concertina partition here C Make sure the gangway past the bed is large enough for people to…

Caravan and Motorhome Club > 01342 326 944 > caravanclub.co.uk Camping and Caravanning Club > 024 7647 5448 > thefriendlyclub.co.uk CRiS > 020 3282 1000 > www.cris.co.uk Approved Workshop Scheme > www.approvedworkshops.co.uk NCC (National Caravan Council) > www.thencc.org.uk Caravan Storage Site Owners’ Association (CaSSOA) > 0843 216 5802 > www.cassoa.co.uk Towsafe > www.towsafe.co.uk DVLA > 0300 790 6801 > www.dft.gov.uk/dvla Mobile Caravan Engineers Association (MCEA) > 01249 651 036 > www.mobilecaravanengineers.co.uk > For the very latest reviews and brilliant buying guides, visit the Practical Caravan website – you’ll find us at www.practicalcaravan.com…

A caravan with a large number of bunk beds can start to feel a little like a dormitory. But with all of the bunks tucked away at the back, as in this layout, they are then partitioned off from the rest of the van by the central washroom, so the front lounge feels like any other front lounge. With this layout, the adults can also put the children to bed and still have some space to themselves. Pros Plenty of sleeping space, but it is nicely tidied away, and everyone has easy access to the toilet Cons The van can sometimes feel rather like it has been split in half A The front lounge here is the only seating area, so it needs to be roomy B Given that this…

APRIL 1994 Avon calling! An Avondale Leda in bright sunshine was the subject of this springtime cover, with a happy couple enjoying a spot of tea. Highlights included 100 nights of pitches to give away It’s all about the journey From Gwynedd to Tayside, this entertaining piece by Louise Millar asked five caravanners about their favourite trips. They included the courageous McLaurin family, who took on the twists and hills of the road alongside Loch Tummel The special ones There’s something, well, ‘special’ about Special Editions – their individuality and extra features make them stand out from the crowd and become particularly desirable. In this feature, George Cardona picked out some of his favourites from the 1994 crowd Bright ideas If your lighting was beginning to lose its sparkle, this…

‘Ancient woods, heathland and coastline combine to create a wildlife-rich landscape covering over 200 square miles’ (p24) Where are we? The New Forest Why tour here? Renowned for the diversity of its wildlife and the beauty of its landscapes, the New Forest has been pleasing visitors ever since it was created by William the Conqueror around 1079 for the pursuit of the ‘beasts of the chase’, including red, roe and fallow deer and wild pig. Today’s pursuits are altogether more gentle, with an abundance of walks and cycle trails around this remarkable National Park. Find out more about places to visit in the New Forest on p34. Don’t miss… Who could resist the sight of a New Forest pony shaking its mane in the winter sun?…

Luxury gifts We all deserve a little luxury at Christmas time, so if you’re looking for something special… Hot water bottle Available in three warm colours, this two-litre hot water bottle from Welsh Otter has a cosy cover, knitted in the brand’s exclusive ‘Caernarfon’ and ‘Llandeilo’ designs. The soft, luxurious cover is made from 100% lambswool, so it won’t be itchy or scratchy. The hot water bottle comes in a smart gift box, and is bound to delight anyone who is trying to stay warm in the chilly winter weather. Price £38 Web welshotter.co.uk Wood-grain aluminium folding camping chair Many camping chairs can look a little bit subdued, with their grey-toned frames and seat cushions. Now you can impress your campsite neighbours with this distinctive chair’s tough aluminium frame and…

Who are you? Susan Taylor, wanderer for many years with my husband, Ro. Where are you a local authority on? Brixham, in Torbay, which is part of the English Riviera. Why are you a local authority on this place? I have friends living there and have visited regularly for more years than I care to remember. What do you love about it? It is a real joy to stroll along the waterfront, ending up at The Prince William for a pint, overlooking the marina and the charming pastel-coloured cottages. Watch the world go by and the fishing crews plying their trade as the sun sinks over the harbour. When I feel more energetic, there are plenty of walks on the cliffs (Brixham is on the South West Coast Path), notably…

In-depth test In our most detailed test, we spend at least one day (usually more) in the van, to bring you our verdict. The score is based on the opinions of the PC team. First look Each month, we test new models of all sizes and report back to you in our regular review pages. This is the place for the quick low-down on a model! Our vans, our month Our long-term-test tourers are loaned to PC by the manufacturers, allowing us to give you warts-and-all reports over the months.…

BMW 2 Series Active Tourer Second-generation BMW MPV; expect more space and a plug-in hybrid Ineos Grenadier Not a fan of the new Defender? The Grenadier is aiming to out-Land Rover Land Rover Nissan X-Trail Based on the US market’s Nissan Rogue, the new X-Trail will feature mild-hybrid power Peugeot 308 The new Peugeot will take on the Ford Focus and VW Golf, with distinctive looks and a plug-in hybrid Volvo XC90 The third generation is expected to improve on the current car (pictured)…

AUDI Q5 If you’re after a luxurious SUV, it’s a fair bet that you’ll visit an Audi showroom along the way. And with good reason: the Q5 is a beautifully built and classy SUV that works brilliantly as a family vehicle most of the time, and is more than capable of towing a hefty trailer. The 2.0-litre diesel is strong, but the 3.0 TDI has even more muscle and a silky driving experience, even if the ride is a bit firm at times. BMW X3 As a tow car, the BMW X3 is a real rival for the Jaguar F-Pace. The 2.0-litre diesel is more than strong enough for even a weighty trailer, and the BMW SUV is master of any situation; even violent lane changes do nothing to upset…

Editor sarah@practicalcaravan.com Deputy editor paul.critcher@futurenet.com Reviews editor peter.baber@futurenet.com Tow car editor motty@practicalcaravan.com Consulting editor practical.caravan@futurenet.com Used-van contributor practical.caravan@futurenet.com ARE HYBRIDS MORE ECONOMICAL CARS? Q I know a lot of people are switching to hybrids or petrol tow cars rather than diesels these days, but which delivers the best fuel economy while towing? Have you done any research on this topic? Chris Kent David Motton replies… Back in 2017 we tested two Volkswagen Tiguans, one petrol and one diesel, using them to tow around the same test route with the same caravan. The diesel achieved 30.3mpg, while the petrol vehicle returned 20.8mpg. Using the fuel prices at the time, we calculated that the petrol would cost another £385 to fuel over 5000 miles of towing. More recently, I’ve towed with both…

Pop-up campsite? I’ve seen pop-up tents (rather different to the rigid triangular-shaped ridged tents of my youth), which put themselves up in moments. But pop-up sites? We have stayed on all manner of sites, and a fair few wild camping spots, over our many years of touring, but never a pop-up. So what are they all about? There was only one way to find out – as soon as the email advertising such a site at Beaulieu arrived in my inbox, I was on the phone and booking us in for a weekend. A whisper in my husband Ro’s ear that we would be staying on the actual site of the National Motor Museum and World of Top Gear had him firmly on side. The pop-up proved to be exactly…

THE A684 IS a pleasure to drive, from its start on the edge of the Lake District in Kendal, through the wonderful landscape of the Yorkshire Dales, all the way to its finish at Osmotherley on the edge of the Yorkshire Moors. From Kendal, the route climbs away from the town. After a few miles the trees lessen to give fantastic views, before the road crosses over the M6 at J37. The panorama continues as it passes close to Lily Mere, then begins its descent towards the River Lune, crossing over the narrow Lincoln’s Inn Bridge. The road is passing through the Howgill Fells as it meets the A683 just outside the old market town of Sedbergh, to begin its journey through the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Sedbergh developed as…

Welcome to the Practical Caravan Owner Satisfaction Awards 2022! Over the next few pages, we’ll reveal the most satisfying new and used caravans you can buy. We’ll also help you choose where to buy, by naming Britain’s top dealers. You’ve probably noticed that there was no 2021 edition of these awards. We’ve let the dust settle after the disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, to make sure our survey reflects plenty of use, as well as the experience of buying a caravan. One of the benefits of taking longer over this year’s survey is that we have a bumper crop of responses. For 2022, these awards are based on the collected wisdom of 3449 owners, up from 2848 for the previous survey. And with this bigger sample size, we believe…

Strava Keep on top of your cycling records with Strava. This useful app allows you to track and analyse your bicycle rides when you’re out and about on tour, while for the more competitive, there is also the option of going head-to-head and comparing your stats with friends and family. The app hosts regular challenges, too, encouraging you to cycle just that little bit further… Price Free to download; Premium membership available Bikemap Loaded with more than eight million global bike routes, BikeMap’s intelligent GPS lets you choose the route that suits you. Voice navigation means you can keep your eyes on the road, while rides can be tailored as you wish – you filter search results to meet requirements such as surface and bike type. Bikemap also points out…

THIS MONTH WE DISCUSS… MOTOR MOVERS // TOWING COVERS // CARAVAN BEDDING There’s no denying it: one of the trickiest and most time-consuming aspects of setting up is reversing (or hauling) your caravan onto its pitch. That’s why motor movers are so popular – with the press of a button, your tourer can be quickly manoeuvred into position with little effort. There are many brands of mover out there, though, so deciding which one is best – or even which is suitable – can be a minefield. But we can help! Simply take a look at our guide on p100 for all you need to know about caravan movers: it’s a must-read. practical.caravan@futurenet.com OUR TECH EXPERTS include (left to right) John Sootheran, Sammy Faircloth and Nigel Hutson *Future Publishing Limited,…

Here are just some of the many major motor mover manufacturers you could consider buying from: Al-Ko > alko-tech.com Al-Ko’s slimline Mammut units are designed so that they don’t protrude below the caravan chassis, providing improved ground clearance. E-go > purpleline.co.uk > midlandmotormovers.co.uk E-go Plug & Play movers are powerful and robust, yet light weight; they’re also some of the most affordable on the market. Emove > caravanmoversonline.co.uk > midlandmotormovers.co.uk The neat Emove range offers buyers the choice of manual or auto roller engagement. Powrtouch > powrtouch.com Britain’s best-selling motor movers have all the bases covered, whatever spec you happen to be looking for. Quattro > quattromover.co.uk Quattro’s innovative technology creates easy-to-use movers at great price points... and they look really fantastic, too, with their dual-roller tech. Reich > reich-easydriver.com/en…

Choosing a layout People’s needs differ, and your layout choice will depend on your companions and how you want to use your caravan. To understand which layouts are available, spend a day at one of the big shows (once they are back on), where dealers and manufacturers show their latest models. A dealership is also a good place to start, but can be affiliated with a limited number of manufacturers. A chat with a dealer, though, could raise issues or offer ideas you hadn’t considered. Think about your needs: will you want to carry bikes, sports kit, barbecues or outdoor furniture? Perhaps creature comforts are a bit higher on your list; you might want a separate sleeping area, a lounge with parallel sofas and TV points, and an oven. If…