The final days of summer may be done and dusted, but the world of caravanning never sleeps, and the news goes on.

Here we take a brief glimpse behind some of the latest UK caravan and motorhome news headlines …

Warning to anyone with a caravan or motorhome over new driving rule

If you own a caravan or motorhome and are planning on a trip to Europe, simply gaining entry to the mainland could prove more challenging, according to a story in the Sun newspaper on the 25^th of September.

On the 12^th of October 2025, a new Entry/Exit System (EES) was introduced throughout the EU, requiring non-EU residents to complete new immigration formalities, including those at the land and sea crossings such as Dover, Eurostar, and Eurotunnel.

Your stay in Europe will be limited to up to just 90 days in any 180-day period, and the additional border checks, including biometric identification, are almost certain to add extra time when clearing customs and immigration – especially if you are towing a caravan or driving a motorhome.

Swift launch caravan, motorhome & campervan 2026 range at the NEC show

UK manufacturer of caravans, motorhomes, and campervans Swift launches its new range of models for the coming year at the major National Motorhome and Caravan Show – to be held at the NEC near Birmingham from the 14^th to the 19^th of October.

The highlights from their range include refreshed designs and upgraded specifications across some of their models as well. For example, the Conqueror and Conqueror Grande return with enhanced layouts and premium styling, while the Elegance Grande showcases refined finishes and a boutique-inspired interior.

The popular Sprite range continues to make caravanning more accessible, combining quality with value. Challenger and Challenger Grande models build on the essentials with greater comfort and the addition of the latest Truma CombiNeo heating system. Meanwhile, Basecamp retains its signature sporty, adventurous appeal – proving style and practicality can go hand in hand.

Visit the Swift stand (6.33) in Hall 6.

Irvinestown site eyed for new tourist caravan park

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council in Northern Ireland is considering planning permission for a new touring caravan park alongside the Bawnacre Centre on Castle Street in Irvinestown, according to a recent news story.

The application for 31 pitches for caravans, plus an amenity centre, storage shed, and package treatment plant, promises to attract welcome investment into a site that was previously used as overflow parking for the neighbouring Necarne Equestrian Centre.

The council’s planning department is understood to support the application from developer George Deane, who also promises a children’s play area and a footpath from the caravan park to nearby recreational facilities.

Caravan park for sale ‘next to Somerset’s biggest tourist attraction’

Cheddar Bridge Touring Park – a neighbour to Somerset’s “biggest tourist attraction”  – is up for sale, according to a story by Somerset Live on the 21^st of September.

The 3-acre park with planning permission for up to 48 touring caravans and 7 static caravans has been under the same ownership for the past 20 years.

Local estate agents praise the site’s “tranquil rural position” in the lee of the Mendip Hills, close to the town of Cheddar, and neighbouring the world-famous Cheddar Gorge.

With winter on its way, now might be the time to give thought to storm-proofing your caravan and protecting it against the ravages of wind and rain.

Why are caravans at higher risk during storms?

You’ve only to compare the structure and materials used in the construction of a house versus a caravan to see why the latter is at higher risk. Caravans are manufactured from relatively lightweight materials, designed to be space-saving and compact.

Little wonder, then, that your caravan will be considerably more vulnerable to damage from the wind, rain, flooding, hailstones, and flying debris – all manner of risks that storm damage caravan insurance will need to acknowledge. Having the most suitable cover in place and preparing your caravan for the winter’s onslaught is critical.

How can I choose a safer pitch to reduce wind and rain damage?

Wherever it’s pitched, your caravan will be exposed to the elements, so careful site selection is a must, while you consider any natural forms of protection.

Do nearby buildings, hillsides, or treelines provide natural windbreaks, for example, what’s the direction of the prevailing wind and does the slope of the ground suggest safe drainage of your chosen site?

As the storm clouds begin to gather, you’ll realise that securing your caravan in windy weather starts with choosing the right pitch.

When should I take down or retract my awning in bad weather?

One of the most important precautions caravan owners can take is to remove or retract awning during storm warnings. It’s vital not to leave the decision too late – by the time winds become dangerously strong, it may no longer be safe to dismantle the awning. Acting early is always the safer and more sensible choice.

Insurers are also clear on this point. If your awning remains up during severe weather and suffers damage, any claim could be rejected on the basis that reasonable precautions weren’t taken. This type of exclusion is common in caravan insurance policies, so it’s important you understand your obligations.

Finally, don’t assume your awning is automatically covered under your standard caravan insurance. Many policies require awnings to be listed separately on the insurance schedule, so check your documents and speak to your caravan insurance broker if you’re unsure.

Further reading: Guide to awnings.

How can I prevent leaks and water ingress in heavy rain?

Preventing leaks and water ingress of your caravan in heavy rain is essentially a question of preparing for the winter ahead.

Without blocking the essential ventilation openings, check that the door and windows are not only firmly closed but that the sealant around all the frames remains watertight. Preparing for winter can become part of your annual maintenance routine.

Don’t forget to include – and keep up to date – a storm emergency kit for your caravan. The list of items for inclusion in any such emergency kit is not exhaustive but might certainly involve storm straps, ropes, a sturdy tarpaulin, first aid kit, torch, mobile ‘phone (and charger), and your caravan and motor insurance documents.

What exclusions should I check in my caravan insurance policy?

As with any kind of general insurance, always check your caravan insurance policy to make sure you meet the conditions. This might reveal certain caravan insurance policy exclusions such as unsecured awnings, belongings that have been left outside, or even a general failure to properly maintain your caravan.

Caravan insurance policy and exclusions may vary depending on the policy, so never assume that everything is covered. If you are unsure as to what your caravan insurance policy entails (and excludes), then speak to your insurance provider.

How can I make sure my caravan is storm-ready this season?

You’ve given the current insurance policy a once-over and you’ve prepared for the coming wind, rain, sleet, and snow of the coming winter.

Now you can relax in the knowledge that securing your caravan in windy weather and checking your caravan insurance policy gives peace of mind.

We’re delighted to welcome Billy Roy as the new Manager at Cover4. With a strong background in the residential and commercial property owners’ markets, he brings over 9 years of expertise in key areas such as customer service, regulations, and delivering the best possible outcomes for customers.

Billy began his career in insurance with Cover4 in January 2018 as a Trainee Account Handler. Since then, he’s gained experience across different departments, progressing to Assistant Manager. Now, he is returning to Cover4, the department that first inspired his passion for insurance. In his new role, Billywill be focusing on leading our Cover4 team to continue providing a first-class customer service. Billy’s experience in Cover4 and the insurance industry makes him well-placed to continue delivering the high level of service our customers expect.

Talking about his new position, Billy says:
“Having started my insurance career at Cover4, I’m excited to step into this role and give back to the team and clients who’ve supported me along the way. My goal is to continue building on our strong reputation while ensuring customers always receive the right advice and cover for their needs.”

Away from work, Billy is a keen runner. Most weekends you’ll find him training on long runs, with the ambitious goal of one day completing a 200-mile ultra marathon such as the Bigfoot 200 in Washington State’s Cascade Mountain Range.

We look forward to working with him as he helps take Cover4 into its next chapter, ensuring our clients continue to benefit from expert advice and the most suitable cover for their needs.

Autumn – the time of “mists and mellow fruitfulness” according to the poets – but also a great time of the year for some last-minute caravanning adventures before winter closes in.

Though temperatures are still mild, you won’t be sweltering through summer’s sweatiest weather, the crowds have finally gone home from your favourite beauty spots, schools are back, the campsites are quieter, and you might even enjoy out-of-season discounted pitch fees.

You’ll be quite simply spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing your getaway this autumn. Many sites stay open until much later in the year, but it’s best to confirm there’s a place for you before you set out. Potential destinations are many – but here are just a few of our suggestions.

The New Forest, Hampshire

Ancient woodlands and open heathland make the New Forest a popular destination for caravanners, whatever the time of year. Autumn, however, displays the multicoloured panoply of trees in all their beautiful glory.

You’ll find mile upon mile of footpaths, trails, and bridleways on which to explore the National Park – taking in the famous New Forest ponies, freely grazing cattle, pigs, deer, birds, and all manner of wildlife.

Pembrokeshire Coast, Wales

It might be a longer drive from where you live, but one you’ll almost certainly find well worth it. The alluring coastline of Pembrokeshire, in the south west of Wales, is likely to be far quieter at this time of year – offering a welcome sense of solitude in which to enjoy cliff walks and stunning sunsets from the comfort of your camping chair.

Pembrokeshire National Park is the UK’s only coastal national park, and from its miles of stunning clifftop walks you can discover more than 50 award-winning beaches – from wide sandy stretches such as Barafundle Bay or Whitesands to innumerable hidden-away coves.

North Yorkshire Moors and Dales

They’re strikingly different but equally stunning. The North York Moors National Park offers a brooding landscape; the Yorkshire Dales National Park presents a softer, more bucolic picture of rural England.

With their contrasting scenery and boundless opportunities for the outdoor life, it is little wonder that both moors and dales continue to feature in descriptions of some of the UK’s favourite camping destinations.

The Yorkshire Dales take you into an immediate embrace of rolling green valleys and limestone scenery mapped out between iconic dry-stone walls.

The North York Moors are altogether more rugged and, in late summer and autumn, are carpeted with purple heather. The national park boasts a dramatic coastline of jagged cliffs, sandy bays, and seaside towns such as Whitby and Robin Hood’s Bay. The heritage and history of this region of England have also left us with numerous castles and abbeys such as Rievaulx Abbey.

The Cotswolds

If you’re looking for an autumn’s caravanning in the quintessential English countryside, you might look no further than the Cotswolds.

Dodge the familiar faces of the rich and famous to discover what are still some of the cosiest market towns in rural England. Admire the chocolate-box appearance of all those honey-stone villages and browse the food festivals and farmers’ markets to your heart’s content.

The Scottish Highlands

The Scottish Highlands are little short of magical at this time of year. The crowds of summer have long since departed, and you are left more or less alone to appreciate the region’s very special beauty.

The scenery is as breath-taking as ever, of course, but now the glens and hillsides turn golden, red, and amber, in their fiery displays of birch and rowan. Wake to the morning mists that roll slowly across the lochs, and take advantage of a lower sun that creates a softer light for the very best of stunning photos.

Wildlife continues to abound throughout the Highlands, and in autumn, you will be treated to the rutting of the red deer. Hear the mighty stags roar – and inevitably clash antlers from time to time.

Autumn sees the arrival of migrating geese and swans, while clearer skies will cast soaring golden eagles in glorious flight.

Where to go in your caravan this autumn

Wherever you choose to head this season – whether it’s the fiery forests of Hampshire, the rugged cliffs of Pembrokeshire, the rolling valleys of Yorkshire, the golden villages of the Cotswolds, or the dramatic Highlands – autumn caravanning in the UK has a magic all of its own.

It’s a time of quieter roads, empty trails, and a countryside showing off some of its richest colours. With the right planning, you’ll find campsites that remain open well into the colder months, giving you the chance to enjoy a cosy escape before winter sets in.

So, pack your walking boots, stock up on warm blankets, and take advantage of the peace, space, and natural beauty that autumn brings. After all, there’s something uniquely rewarding about returning to your caravan after a brisk day outdoors, kettle on the boil, and the satisfaction of having discovered Britain’s landscapes at their most atmospheric.

Care to catch the tail end of a late Indian Summer? Autumn can be one of the most comforting, relaxing, and alluring seasons of the year.

As you hitch up your caravan or load up the motorhome, here are some of the news items and other interesting stuff you may not want to miss before winter’s layover ..

Skydream launches a new species of caravan

Making its appearance at the recent Caravan Salon in Dusseldorf, Germany, Skydream is billed as the caravan of the future.

Described with great fanfare by PR Newswire on the 30^th of August, the new Skydream is said to represent a complete break from the conventional “white box-shaped vehicle”. Instead, the company’s vision of the future in “caravanning” features:

• a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery – rated from 45kWh to 85kWh;

• a solar charging system – capable of 1100W to 2200W;

• reverse charging capability;

• smart driving assistance features including technology that aids body stability and dynamics so that swaying of the vehicle during travel is suppressed;

• an integrated intelligent control system from which you can control the door locks, lighting, air conditioning, other equipment and mobile apps all by voice commands.

Traditional caravans are a thing of the past, says Skydream, as it launches a new leisure vehicle that is set to “shake up the era”.

Caravan racing at Silverstone and other memories

From a glimpse of the future to a nostalgic look at caravans and motorhomes of their golden age in the 1960s and 70s – Autocar magazine recently reminded us when caravan racing was all the rage at Silverstone race rack in 1973.

The forerunner was a British Caravan Road Rally that featured hill climbs, speed towing, tests of braking and distance judgement.

Reminiscing about the caravan’s heyday in the UK, the article recalled that some 3,000 caravans a year were made in the UK during the 1950s. By 1972, output rocketed to more than 67,000 caravans built annually.

It recalled the time when the first national caravan show was held at Earls Court in 1959 – with no fewer than 46 manufacturers along with 86 suppliers, service providers, and traders welcomed the throng of visitors.

Do I need to register my caravan in Europe 2025?

If you’ve been used to taking your caravan with you to Europe, be certain not to be caught out by new rules that that came into effect on the 26^th of August and apply to towed trailers.

If your caravan is more than 750kg, you are now required to register it in advance of your journey to or through practically any European country, according to official guidance on the government website.

To tow such a caravan in Europe, registration will require that the trailer has its own separate registration plate (that is, different to the towing vehicle’s plate) and that you keep with you the caravan’s registration document ready to show foreign authorities when requested.

Although registration is required throughout almost the whole of Europe, exceptions are made if you are towing only in the UK, Ireland, Spain, Cyprus, or Malta.

Your first registration will cost £26; £21 for a new certificate for a registered keeper; and £10 for a lost or mislaid replacement certificate.

Every UK Caravan and Motorhome Club site earns Green Tourism Gold 

The Caravan and Motorhome Club has secured for every one of its member sites the highest level of accreditation by the Green Tourism organisation, according to a recent posting by Out and About Live.

Green Tourism’s Gold award for sustainability has gone to more than 150 of the Club’s sites and even its headquarters building.

Gold awards are given only when the highest standards of sustainability and environmental management have been demonstrated.