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Caravan Times, the exciting new on line caravan website, got visitors to the site to vote for their Caravan of The Year, and the clear outright winner was the new Swift Conqueror.

The Conqueror, launched last Autumn, features a unique exterior shape with an integral sunroof, and a stylish modern exterior with top end luxury specification and Alde radiator central heating system.

“The Swift Conqueror stood head and shoulders above the competition and was a clear winner out of the 34 entrants,” the site says, while the new Swift Challenger and Sterling Elite were also very popular with the readers.

“Congratulations to this great new online magazine for caravanners and to win the top award where actual caravanners vote, and not journalists, makes this victory even more important, “Swift Group Commercial Director Nick Page commented.

See the full awards on www.caravantimes.co.uk

Author: Carl Way
Caravan Insurance is a must if you own a caravan. A caravan is a valuable item, and you could find yourself very out of pocket if you don't insure it adequately. Caravan insurance provides protection if your caravan is stolen and/or damaged, but there are a various means to stop this happening.Did you know that there are around three thousand caravans stolen in the UK each year, and with the growing popularity of the 'staycation' and the resulting increase in caravan ownership and holidays, this figure is set to go higher. Caravan owners are wise to make sure they have the best security they can to prevent their caravan being stolen. Following are listed 10 of the most effective ways to protect your caravan, together they add up to a very effective deterrent.Security posts are a great idea for people who park their caravan on the drive at home. These help prevent thieves from taking the caravan from in front of your home, because they are cemented into the ground. Some posts have a towball on top that the caravan is hitch-locked to, and others are either detachable or foldable to allow the caravan to move in and out of the drive.Hitch locks are a useful device in providing a good level of defence against opportunist thieves. Check that it is made of heavy steel that will cover the tow socket fixing bolts, and also has a very strong lock. Bear in mind that on their own though, they don't provide a sufficient level of protection for periods when the caravan is in storage.Wheel clamps are another option. Wheel clamps come in a range of qualities, but a useful rule of thumb is that by and large the easier they are to fit, then the easier they are for a thief to remove. It is important that you invest in a good wheel clamp and also ensure that it fits your caravan. Beware that some clamps that are available on the market will allow a clever thief to take off the wheel and the clamp in one go, so don't get one of these.Another useful security measure is to etch either the caravan's chassis number or your postcode on all of the caravan windows, and in several covert places within the caravan. Alternatively you could just use a permanent marker on plywood inside a cupboard and under the beds, as this is nigh-on impossible to remove. Even cleverer, you can use an ultra violet pen.Another available deterrent is wheel stands. However, don't underestimate the capability of a determined caravan thief, as this on their own won't be likely to stop them. You should check they are locked in place, and you should also check that your insurers are okay with you doing this, because some policies need wheel clamps to be fitted. Be sure to check your handbook, as many caravan manufacturers recommend using axle stands for winter storage.You should also take plenty of photos of your caravan, particularly of any distinctive features it has. These photos can assist you in identifying your caravan should it be stolen.Another alternative is to paint or use some commercially available large stick-on letters to put a number or code specific to you on top of the van. For instance you could use any number that is known only to you, or perhaps a parto f the caravan's serial number. This is of great assistance in the event that the caravan is pinched because it will make it easily identifiable from aircraft and helicopters that police forces make use of nowadays.Your will find various companies around that offer a service that will embed a tracking microchip into your caravan. These chips can then be identified using a scanner. You will find that most vans manufactured from 1998 will have datatags installed as standard. All previous 'Caravan Registration and Identification Scheme' (CRiS) registered caravans are able to have the datatags fitted retrospectively. Bear in mind that there is a bit of a flaw to these services though, in there is no centralized network of available scanners to track down these missing caravans.Another choice is a tracking system scheme, which requires the fitting of a transmitter which is hidden somewhere inside the caravan. If the caravan is stolen the transmitter starts to send out a signal to enable the police to find the van. There have been quite a few good successes using this scheme. However there exist several issues this presents to caravans (rather than motorhomes and cars), the first is that the transmitter needs battery power to be able to transmit, and the second is that the transmitter is only activated once the vehicle has been reported stolen. These issues can be a difficulty if the van is in storage for any length of time, and only checked upon occasionally.You should definitely keep a record of the chassis number of the caravan, and if it is registered with CRiS, you should keep these documents in a safe place away from the caravan. Any other important information should also be recorded and stored in the secure place.The more of these tips you put in place, the better the odds are that your caravan will not get pinched in the first place, and secondly, should it get pinched, that it will be returned to you.

Caravan Accessories - How to Spot the Best Used Caravans for Sale
Author: IgorBajsic
While shopping for caravans it is obvious that the client will want to check the age, fitments and other common things about a caravan. However it is caravan accessories that are accessible with each caravan that help you find out if a caravan has been looked after well and whether the price that the caravan seller is asking for the caravan is worth paying or not.All caravans that are put up for sale have regular fixtures available. Accessories such as awning, extra large water butt, sack trolley for the chemical toilet and a chemical toilet itself are not available. The more the accessories that are available with the caravan the better is your bargain. This is said be a good bargain. This also helps you gain confidence that the earlier possessor had maintained this caravan in top condition. However a question can be asking the relevance of a good caravan with the accessories that are available with the caravan while on sale. It is very true that a caravan can be a good buy despite it not having any accessories with it. However accessories available with a caravan suggest two things about the caravan. One, the previous owners knew a lot about caravanning. Caravanning displays a certain amount of snobbish attitude as only people who have in depth knowledge of caravans know exactly what accessories to put in a caravan and two, the previous owners took care of their caravan and are thus humane.Caravan accessories are peculiar objects and it does take a person with proper knowledge to know which accessories to fix in the caravan. Thus second-hand caravans that have constructive accessories like the awnings, bike racks and water butts have come from owners who had a good know-how of caravans. It can thus be understood that these previous owners were knowledgeable enough to be able to fix any leaks and damages in the caravan. Thus it is quite clear that caravans that come with useful accessories are well maintained even as second-hand caravans.If one does not have a good knowledge of caravans buying one can be a taxing job. There is wide variety of things to choose from such as lengths, types, the number of berths (tourer, single, twin axle), width, the number of doors (single or dual). Thus it can safely be concluded that checking out and banking on the accessories available while buying a used caravan for its quality can be helpful in narrowing the choices. If the buyer does not have a good knowledge of caravans and while buying he will have to rely on the sellers ten he might as well look for one that comes with useful accessories.Purchasing a used commodity is always considered to be a lottery. Buying a second-hand caravan with useful accessories is similar to buying a second-hand car or any other vehicle. You may end up getting a wonderful purchase or it may be a nightmare for you. Thus it is always safer to buy from a dealer than to buy from a private individual who has more chances of selling you a low quality caravan which can be more expensive to maintain given its condition.

Caravan Terminology – Guide for Buyers

Author: Steven Greenwood

A Frame - This is the triangular frame that is at the front end of the caravan. It is usually covered by a piece of moulded plastic. It also houses the handbrake and the electrical leads.

ABS - Most caravans are now built using ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) as it is light, shiny and repairable.

Aquaroll - A roll-along container for fresh water which connects to your caravan water inlet using a submersible pump.

Awning - Similar to a three-sided tent which attaches to your caravan through the awning rail, located on the side of the caravan. Awnings range from either a full awning, which runs the whole length of the caravan, to a porch awning which fits over the caravan door.

Awning Rail - The rail on which the awning threads into which runs along the sides and top of the caravan.

Berths - The number of people the caravan will sleep.

Breakaway Cable - A steel cable which is permanently fixed to the lower end of the handbrake lever with a clip on the other end which attaches to your towbar. This cable would apply the caravan brakes if, for instance, the caravan became unattached from the car.

Butane Gas - The gas sold in blue cylinders. It burns at a slightly slower rate so it is a more efficient heat provider, which usually makes it the preferred choice of Caravanners. It cannot be used in freezing temperatures and is heavier than propane. If you switch from propane to butane you will need to switch regulators.

CaSSOA - Caravan Storage Site Owners Association – using a CaSSOA recognised site will often get you discounts on your caravan insurance policy.

Corner Steadies - The legs which wind down from the corners of the caravan which ensure the stability of the caravan when pitched.

Coupling Head - Also referred to as the "hitch" - the part of the caravan which couples to the towball on your car and locks on.
CRIS - Stands for "Caravan Registration and Identification Scheme" and is the national register for touring caravans in the UK.

Delamination - When the adhesive bonding the caravan floor layers become unstuck, allowing the floor layers to start to creak and become spongy.

Full Service Pitch - A pitch which has water and electricity supply, as well as a connection to the waste system. You may also have a direct TV aerial connection. Can also be known as a multi-service pitch.
Garage - Part of the caravan, usually bunks which fold up when not in use, that opens from the outside so that you can put in large items for storage, e.g. bikes.

Gross Train Weight - The combined maximum allowable weight of the loaded caravan and car, which the law states should not be exceeded.

GRP - Glass Reinforced Plastic used for the construction of the caravan panels (not used on newer caravans).

Hitch Head Stabiliser - Works by applying friction to the tow ball, therefore stabilising the caravan.

Hitch Lock - The hitch lock is a metal lock which fits over the caravan coupling head, therefore preventing the caravan from being stolen. This is essential to most insurance policies.

Hook-Up Lead - The lead which connects the caravan to the site mains electrical supply.

Jockey Wheel - The small wheel at the front of the caravan 'A' frame which you can use for maneuvering the caravan and which supports the front end.

Maximum Towing Weight - The maximum weight that the manufacturer will allow the car to tow under any circumstances and which must NEVER be exceeded.

MIRO - Stands for "Mass in Running Order" - This is the weight of the caravan when equipped to the manufacturer's standard specification (before being loaded with all your equipment).

MTPLM - "Maximum Technically Permissible Laden Mass" - This is the manufacturer's top limit for what a caravan can weigh when it is fully loaded with all your caravanning gear.

Motor Mover - An electric device which is fixed to the caravan which allows the caravan to be moved when not hitched up. It uses a remote control to move the caravan and works using the caravan battery.

Noseweight - The maximum amount of downward force which the car manufacturer will allow to be exerted on the towball.

Outfit - The car and caravan are known together as an "outfit".

Roof Light - A window in the roof which can be opened.

Single Axle - A caravan with just one set of wheels, usually a smaller caravan.

Stabiliser - A stabiliser helps to keep the caravan stable when being towed. It uses friction to damp down movement around the tow ball and will help to correct any excess movement. Do not rely on a stabiliser alone to keep the caravan stable - you must still load the caravan correctly and keep the caravan tyres in good condition.

Steady Locks - These lock the caravan steadies (legs) in the down position, which makes it difficult to tow the caravan away.

Supermule - A safety device which is wound down from the caravan's floor when you are parked which will prevent the caravan being towed away, as the more the caravan is pulled the more the Supermule digs in to the ground.

Twin Axle - A caravan that has two sets of wheels.

User Payload - The total weight of the accessories you can carry in the caravan.

Wastemaster (or Waste Carrier) - A container with wheels which holds your waste water until you need to empty it at a service point on site. It connects to your caravan's waste water outlet, and will slide under your caravan.

Wheel clamps - They fit around the caravan tyres and wheels to prevent the wheel rotating, which therefore prevents the caravan being stolen.

During times of economic uncertainty there is a tendency to cut back on spending and holidays abroad are commonly postponed until times when money is not so tight.

More and more Britons are opting to holiday at home and caravanning is becoming an increasingly popular way to enjoy yourself without straying too far.

Some well known celebrities are adding to the caravan craze and the likes of Jamie Oliver and car enthusiast Jay Kay are backing the latest trend, making caravanning and motorhoming fashionable as well as popular.

There are more and more music festivals being held all over Great Britain and taking your caravan along means you have somewhere more comfortable to rest your head after the day's activities.

Whatever the reason for taking a break, there are hundreds of caravan parks to take your pick from. Lake and seaside destinations are ideal if you fancy a holiday by the water. You can also set yourself up in the countryside or near a city meaning you can tailor the trip to suit yourself.

An increasing awareness of the environmental impact of flying abroad means people are looking for greener ways to go on holiday. Caravanning is considered an environmentally friendly way of taking a break and this fresh new image is adding to the appeal of caravan holidays.

Caravan and motorhome sales have been rising in the United Kingdom where the famously unpredictable weather can be overcome by owners as these portable homes provide the perfect opportunity to make the most of the sun the moment it makes an appearance.

If you are planning to purchase your own caravan then there are a few handy things to look out for. Buying a second hand caravan privately can be a much cheaper option than buying through a dealer and if you are prepared to travel you can pretty much choose whatever caravan you want. If you are looking for a bargain you are more likely to find one in the early winter months as people finish touring for the season.

Before you buy a caravan make sure you inspect it thoroughly in daylight and if you are not mechanically minded then bring along someone that is.

Look out for vans that include all the essential accessories in the sale price as it is well worth paying a little extra to save future expense. Look out for leisure batteries, battery chargers, gas bottles, electric hook-ups, hitch locks and TV equipment. Also, having an awning included that is the right size for your caravan is particularly valuable.

Before you take to the roads make sure you know the basics of towing a caravan and are informed about the correct speed limit you are restricted to and so on. If you intend towing your purchase home, remember it is your responsibility to ensure the vehicle is roadworthy and is correctly and safely hitched.

Making sure you have caravan insurance in place before you set off is essential as well.

Article Source: http://www.ArticleBlast.com

When you love to go caravanning, it is often because you prefer to have a few home comforts as opposed to camping with just the basics. However, caravans can be surprisingly difficult machines to move about. Whether you are stuck in muddy terrain or simply trying to manoeuvre it into position at a caravan park; you could be subjected to physically demanding situations and that lightweight tent could start to look rather appealing. There is no need to suffer on your holidays with caravan movers that offer you a variety of benefits and makes caravan holidays a breeze.

Faster Positioning - Manoeuvring your caravan into position can sometimes time hours out of your holiday. With reliable caravan movers, you can ensure you spend less time setting up camp and more time enjoying your vacation. Engaging directly with the wheels, you could have greater control over the direction your caravan goes and achieve faster positioning as a result.

Better for Your Back - If you suffer from back problems or physical ailments, it can be a struggle to go caravanning when it takes a great deal of effort to move such a large vehicle. With caravan movers, you can move your caravan in almost any direction at the push of a button. From a remote control, you can direct your caravan forwards, backwards or rotate it 360 degrees when you choose specialist equipment.
Better for Your Back - If you suffer from back problems or physical ailments, it can be a struggle to go caravanning when it takes a great deal of effort to move such a large vehicle. With caravan movers, you can move your caravan in almost any direction at the push of a button. From a remote control, you can direct your caravan forwards, backwards or rotate it 360 degrees when you choose specialist equipment.

Helping Hand - When you caravan becomes logged in difficult areas or stuck in the mud, traditional methods of removing it can be complicated and laborious. With the help of a caravan mover, you could manoeuvre your vehicle out of the tricky spots sooner with multi-directional equipment that can lend you a helping hand.
Helping Hand - When you caravan becomes logged in difficult areas or stuck in the mud, traditional methods of removing it can be complicated and laborious. With the help of a caravan mover, you could manoeuvre your vehicle out of the tricky spots sooner with multi-directional equipment that can lend you a helping hand.

If you are looking for caravan movers to make your life easier, you can find a range of equipment at Midland Motor Movers. Their extensive collection of motor movers has something to suit every budget. To find out more, visit the Midland Motor Movers website; www.midlandmotormovers.co.uk

Article Source: http://www.ArticleBlast.com
About The Author:

If you are looking for a caravan mover to make your life easier, you can find a range of equipment at Midland Motor Movers. Their extensive collection of motor movers has something to suit every budget. To find out more, visit the Midland Motor Movers website; www.midlandmotormovers.co.uk

Many people dread the thought of reversing a caravan and for some they never even attempt it. I know someone who has been caravanning for over 10 years and although he does all the driving forward his wife does all the reversing. We all know that skills vary between different people and this is true with driving, towing, reversing and all other situations in life. Practice and more practice does prevail though and below are some key points to follow.

1. Take a mental note of your surroundings before attempting the reverse.

Look out for tree stumps, bollards, children and other obstacles. Don’t just check for obstacles in your caravans path but also in the swing of the car. Sometimes you spend so much time looking in the rear you forget where your front end will finish up.

2. Discuss with your co-pilot what directions should be given by both parties and what should happen in the event of a near collision. This is important to avoid confusion during the event. Admit it, we have all been there “I thought you meant to my right not yours”.

3. Take it slowly, the majority of accidents happen when we are rushing either to get pitched up quickly or because spectators are gathering.

4. When reversing in a straight line I always remember this little tip. If you see more of the caravan in your left mirror then you need to turn the steering wheel to the left and vice versa. Left Left and Right Right. If you want to, make a note and place it in your sun visor.

5. When reversing around a bend, give yourself plenty of room to reverse in a straight line first. Then gradually move the steering wheel to the necessary direction (opposite to step 5). Just before the caravan is in the correct position turn the wheel in the opposite direction so your car follows the van (doing this too late will almost always turn the caravan too far).

6. Practice as this is the real key to successful reversing and once cracked, it’s like riding a bike.

7. If you fail the first time, drive forward to your original straight line position and start again, sometimes its quicker to start afresh than trying to rectify a mistake.

8. Practice in a secluded location where you can build up your confidence, practice really does make perfection and spectators really do knock your confidence when things are not quite going your way.

9. Use a mobile phones or walkie talkies (hands free) to speak to your co-pilot, this will give you the reassurance that you are working as a team.

10. Take a breather, sometimes it pays to get out of the car and re-assess the situation. Check for new obstacles and take time out to relax instead of stressing in a hot car.