Contents
EVERYTHING YOU CAN LOOKFORWARD TO IN ISSUE 469
Better towing for all Would you know what to do in the event of a caravan accident? Hopefully it’s not something that any of us will ever need to consider, but it’s always worth being prepared just in case – which is why this month, we asked former PC editor David Motton to write about how to be a better tow car driver, and what to do in the event of something going wrong. It’s essential reading for every caravanner – you’ll find his article on p86. Also this month, if you’ve bought a caravan in the past three years, we’d love to hear all about your experiences for our annual Owner Satisfaction Survey, which we run in conjunction with The Camping and Caravanning Club. Have your say and you could win one of three brilliant prizes – you can find out more on p70. Thank you for your help – and good luck in the prize draw!
sarah@practicalcaravan.com Editor-in-chiefSARAHisakeencaravanner who loves seeing the best of Europe on her travels
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Chat 6 The big picture Beautiful Vatersay on the Outer Hebrides 8 Connect Readers share their news, views and photos 13 New gear A special selection of the latest essential touring kit 14 Puzzle time Take a summertime break with our brain-teasers! 16 Expert Q&A Caravanning problem? Our panel can help!
Travel 20 Travel A round-up of all the latest touring news 22 Great escape: Scotland and the Lake District The Lyon family revisit some of their favourite destinations to enjoy the great outdoors 28 Getaway: The Tissington Trail Peter and Helen Rosenthal take an ebike tour set against the backdrop of the beautiful Peak District 32 Getaway: Hereford and Hay-on-Wye Andria Massey dons her walking boots to explore a scenic and historic part of the world 36 Getaway: Warmington Middle England’s glorious countryside and fascinating history make the ideal short break for Susan Taylor 40 Summertime apps Brilliant apps to enhance your summer touring 44 Top UK driving routes Our selection of great road trips to enjoy 50 48 hours in… Ludlow Make the most of your weekend break
Newvans 53 Tested Peter Baber has all the news from the showrooms 56 In-depth test: Swift Elegance Grande 845 This luxurious 8ft-wide twin-axle offers a spacious interior and plenty of payload 62 First look: Coachman Laser Xtra 665 Comfortable and digitally well connected, the new-look 665 is ideal for couples on tour 64 Round-up: Bailey Phoenix GT75 Revamped top-selling line-up from the Bristol manufacturer marks its 75 years in the industry 66 Choose the perfect caravan Follow our expert guidance to track down the new caravan that’s just right for you and your family 71 Product review: Bluetti EB3A Power wherever you need it!
Used vans 75 Used vans Andrew Jenkinson reports from the forecourts 76 Used van buyer Sprite Alpine 4 (2019) 78 Find the right used-van dealer Award-winning dealerships
Towcars 81 Tow cars We take a first look at the new Hyundai Kona SUV 82 Tow car test Škoda Kamiq 1.5 TSI 150PS Monte Carlo 84 Tow car advice A round-up of our favourite family SUVs 86 Be a better tow car driver Our top tips for trouble-free towing 88 Used tow car test Hyundai Santa Fe Mk3 (2012-2018)
Skills school 91 Skills school Maintaining peak performance in your van fridge 92 Towing courses John Sootheran outlines the many benefits of taking part in a tow training course, for newbies and old hands 98 The Penny Project pt 2 Nigel Donnelly gives his latest purchase a good clear-up and clear-out, in preparation for their first tour 102 Alde 3030 control panel How to customise screen settings 104 Nuts and bolts All you need to know about these DIY essentials 106 Fit a GOK Senso4s Plus A neat device to monitor gas supply 108 Buyer’s guide Comprehensive model listings and information 122 Look-back page Caravanning life in years gone by www.practicalcaravan.com | SEPTEMBER 2023 | 5
