BS: Campervans (UK)

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: kendall
Date: 19 Mar 06 - 04:26 PM

Don't forget the tires. Ordinary van tired are 4 ply and they can't take the extra weight.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: JohnInKansas
Date: 19 Mar 06 - 12:08 AM

A prevous thread a year or more ago asked for where to find a kit to convert a van. The "conversion" wanted was the pop-up or elevated roof used in some of them. After some research by quite a few people, the conclusion was that no reputable manufacturer would sell one of the availablle "kits" to anyone other than a professional conversion factory or "custom shop."

The "shell" of most modern vehicles, including vans, is at least a "semi-monocoque" construction that uses the skin as an essential part of "what holds it all together." Once you cut a hole in the skin, it is extremely difficult to add on enough "other parts" to recover anything close to the original strength.

Putting "gear" inside a van is safe enough for a DIY project, provided that you don't grossly exceed load capacity of the vehicle; but that's a "van equipped for camping" rather than what's commonly called a "camper conversion."

John

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Bonecruncher
Date: 19 Mar 06 - 12:03 AM

Hello Maryrrf,
From my experience of rebuilding a coachbuilt 'van some years ago I would not recommend anyone amateur to attempt to convert an existing van (Transit type). The costs are so high that you would never recoup your expenditure. The resale value of a home conversion is very low.If you ever wanted to part-exchange for another 'van a dealer would not touch it!
Just go to a large store selling caravan equipment and look at the prices for the basics! A fridge is nearly £500 and a cooker over £200. Sinks with draining boards are over £100, and a toilet will set you back another £300 or so for the cassette type. I recently had to buy a replacement water pump and pair of taps and the cost was over £100. Household type of units are too bulky and heavy, so specialised units are required and, as you know, anything specialised cost more than average.
Every commercial vehicle has a Gross Weight imprinted on a plate. That weight must not be exceeded or you will fall foul of the Law and probably your insurance would be invalid. The gross weight includes all fittings, passengers, plus any water, gas, food and personal effects, as in kerbside weight. Some older commercially-built 'vans are very close to their Gross Weight when only driver, passenger and minimal equipment are carried. Add in the two extra passengers for which there are seats and beds and those vehicles could be taken off the road at any time, should there be a roadside weight check. Motorcaravans are often pulled in with commercial vehicles by DVLA inspection teams.
To keep within this weight and to keep the balance of the vehicle furniture needs to be properly placed side-to-side and front-to-back, with heavy weights such as the fridge over the rear wheels.
Timber, ply and chipboard from the local D I Y shed is far too heavy and particular framing timber and lightweight board materials need to be used. Cupboard doors, for instance, are made hollow to reduce weight.
You would need the skills of carpenter, auto-electrician, gas fitter, plumber, welder, panel beater, mechanic to name but a few.
I believe there are likely to be laws introduced which will require motorcaravans to pass a "fitness test" before they can be licenced by the DVLA but I don't know how far advanced are those proposals.
If you are still considering doing your own conversion then think very carefully. You would probably spent more that buying a fairly new commercial motorcaravan.
Colyn.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 18 Mar 06 - 02:48 PM

Isn't that what they do when they build campervans, convert a van - take a van chassis/engine/cab and add a shed on the back?

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Maryrrf
Date: 18 Mar 06 - 10:55 AM

That's what I'd want to look into - converting a van. Anybody done that?

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: GUEST
Date: 17 Mar 06 - 04:38 PM

It's not that great. I've seen better tents!
But I don't think I'd put it in the middle of the road though!

What about converting a van? I've had several mates who converted vans. One was an old Dodge van. The owner put a wood burning stove in it and fitted a chimney, well cosy.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: kendall
Date: 17 Mar 06 - 03:17 PM

It will do nicely. Enjoy, and be sure to drive in the middle of the road, it really pisses off the speeders.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 17 Mar 06 - 12:27 PM

Yes and were he not dead you could have invited Randy van Warmer too.
G ☺

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 17 Mar 06 - 12:19 PM

are you having a van warming party?

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 17 Mar 06 - 12:15 PM

Warm and cosy on cold wet festival camp sites, and you can make a cup of tea if you're stuck in a long traffic jam.
Don't give that Strolling Johnny a cup, he'll only complain it's too hot too cold or too sweet☺
Giok

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Rasener
Date: 17 Mar 06 - 12:10 PM

60mph down the hill 20mph up the hill and 40 on the straight

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 17 Mar 06 - 11:58 AM

Joss-stick holder, flower-power decals, speed-limiter on engine set to the regulation 40 mph or slower, I could go on..............(LOL)

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Mr Sooz
Date: 17 Mar 06 - 11:01 AM

Its only a little one (atasttb)-by US standards Kendal- power unit is 1925cc turbo diesel- its just over 17'long-theres a double bed over the cab with another at the back- usual gear- fridge,oven,hob,fire,hotwater,shower,cassette toilet,on board water& waste

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Rasener
Date: 17 Mar 06 - 10:20 AM

Looks very nice that there Stitherumbus - Soozes.

Cor wish I had had one of those when I was about 20, it wouldn't have been called that but it would have been called the S***bus.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: kendall
Date: 17 Mar 06 - 09:54 AM

It looks like a very nice rig. What size engine? Is that a bunk over the cab? How long is this rig?

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 17 Mar 06 - 09:48 AM

AS usual, our nutcase control-freak IT dickheads at work have blocked the pix Mike. Bring 'em tonight?
S:0)

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: kendall
Date: 17 Mar 06 - 07:48 AM

Does it have dual wheels? A floating rear axel?
Some years ago, I bought a Sunraider on a 1/2 ton Toyota chassis. It was too heavy for the rear axel, and the bearing and axel failed. After that, they went to the one ton chassis with a REAL truck axel and it worked fine.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Mr Sooz
Date: 17 Mar 06 - 07:24 AM

As requested by the villan here are some pix- good innit !

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 16 Mar 06 - 10:58 AM

I'll be at Sidders, but I'm booked into the King's Down Tail Campsite not the festival one, I like my electricity and comforts.
Giok

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 16 Mar 06 - 09:53 AM

LOL!

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Sooz
Date: 16 Mar 06 - 08:26 AM

Shut up - you're only jealous! Hope to bump into you somewhere Giok!

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Rasener
Date: 16 Mar 06 - 06:54 AM

LOL

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 16 Mar 06 - 06:41 AM

Can't do that many trips - at 40 mph there isn't time.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 16 Mar 06 - 05:37 AM

Fair weather camper already? Seriously though it's great isn't it, you just can't stop yourself looking out the window at it, just to make sure it's still there. I wish you many happy trips in it.
Giok

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Rasener
Date: 16 Mar 06 - 03:03 AM

Are you bringing it to Faldingworth on Saturday, so we can all have a gander?

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Sooz
Date: 16 Mar 06 - 02:38 AM

It has arrived. It was too dark and cold when I got home last night to play in it and its covered in snow this morning!

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Rasener
Date: 16 Mar 06 - 01:37 AM

Mr & Mrs Sooz should only have the best equipment in their new campervan and this useful piece of equipment is surely a must for them.
King & Queen Sooz

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 15 Mar 06 - 02:23 PM

Fortunately The Soozes know I'm just joshin' them, although I was a bit worried when I took them to Louth Folk Club last night in case they beat me to death with a kazoo and buried my bloody corpse on Hubbard's Hills! :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 15 Mar 06 - 02:21 PM

ROFLMAO Giok! You're incorrigible! (At least, you are if that big word means what I think it means!) LOL!

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 15 Mar 06 - 12:31 PM

They must know there's a miserable moany bugger behind them ☺
Giok ☻

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 15 Mar 06 - 12:23 PM

I heard it's arriving today. Huge queues off traffic predicted on the road between Gainsborough and Corringham.

Julian, if they ever REACHED the speed limit it would be something! When the limit's 60, why do those dopey old buggers crawl along at 40?

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: julian morbihan
Date: 14 Mar 06 - 12:36 PM

Just a thought to those who have posted complaining at the slow speed of some campervans.

"They don't go slow, they just keep to the speed limits."

I await a few comments... ;-)

Cheers

Julian

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Rasener
Date: 14 Mar 06 - 07:27 AM

how about a picture then Mrs Sooz

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Rasener
Date: 13 Mar 06 - 08:49 AM

is there any particular one you want played, as I will be in the studio, when Tom is talking to Graham Moore.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 13 Mar 06 - 06:51 AM

Oh aye, heard him say that. Just thought you had some inside info! :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Rasener
Date: 13 Mar 06 - 04:33 AM

I don't know. He said last week on Radio Lincs that he had received your CD, and that he would be playing one of your songs this Wednesday.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 13 Mar 06 - 04:24 AM

Which one?

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Rasener
Date: 12 Mar 06 - 03:23 PM

Your missus has certainly got you under control. :-)
Strollin' doing a stroll of 8 miles in the snow. Thats wonderful. Did you pop in and see Mick Peat?
I see Tom is going to play one of your songs on your new CD this Wednesday.
Things are certainly on the up :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 12 Mar 06 - 02:52 PM

Giok, I HAVE white hair, mate! (Round the sides only though - flesh-tones on top! Mrs. Johhny says it's a Solar Panel for a Sex-Machine).

Villan - we were walking! A little stroll of eight miles or so in the snow. It's called e-x-e-r-c-i-s-e !! LOL!

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 12 Mar 06 - 02:46 PM

Did you meet the White hare?
Giok.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Rasener
Date: 12 Mar 06 - 02:36 PM

What the f*** are you doing there Strollin' ?

Hope you didn't nick Mr & Mrs Sooz's Campervan :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 12 Mar 06 - 02:35 PM

Not many campervans up in't Peak District today (in fact not a bugger!). Even hippies and weekend gypsies have limits to their madness! :-)

The Derwent Reservoir and the Derwnt and Howden Dams looked magnificent in the snow.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 12 Mar 06 - 08:18 AM

Save gas......................Fart in a bottle!

G.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: The Fooles Troupe
Date: 12 Mar 06 - 06:36 AM

I suppose that helps save on petrol...

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Rasener
Date: 12 Mar 06 - 04:49 AM

They only need cans of baked beans

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: The Fooles Troupe
Date: 12 Mar 06 - 04:00 AM

Well, that's a major snag for a start in this thread!

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Sooz
Date: 12 Mar 06 - 03:49 AM

We're vegetarian!

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: The Fooles Troupe
Date: 11 Mar 06 - 08:23 PM

"What are the snags we might not have thought of? "

Well, you have probably tried pork and beef.

There's lamb and venison, for a start. And of course lots of blends, things like tomato and onion added to beef, for instance. Then there's the 'foreign snags' - like choritizo, and even salami, etc.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 11 Mar 06 - 04:23 AM

And effin' cold on winter neets at Walesby Hazel!! LOL!
S:0)

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Rasener
Date: 10 Mar 06 - 05:11 AM

Will we see it tonight at MRFC Sooz

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Pistachio
Date: 09 Mar 06 - 12:17 PM

Just found this thread.
Congratulations - you'll be happy I'm sure.
My husband treated 'himself'/us to a coach built motorhome in 1994 and I've driven it 99% of that time.
I'm the 'festival'bus driver and once on site I deposit my passengers and their canvas, put on the kettle (something about alcohol?), shift a couple of cushions, pull the curtains and voila - I'm ready for the weekend. Yes loose kit has to be stowed for travel but that's just like housekeeping - the same for a caravan!
I have my own 'bijou loo' - a MUST for nights after singing and supping - and soo much more civilised.The wet weather factor doesn't phase me but I admit - the fuel does.... but it's so well worth it. It does go slowly/steadily along but I did get up to 83mph on the M25 in August'95.Now, it takes skill to reach 60 but the
superior driving position' and sheer pleasure make it all worthwhile.
The Van has SO MANY MORE USES than a portable bedspace.
Mine...(don't tell my hubby but it is more MINE than his)...has been a rehearsal room, first aid point, bacon buttie wagon, lunch stop, dog rescue support HQ, as well as transporter of all manner of goods bound for new homes/the dump or WHATEVER. It may be that the water pump has now siezed and the heater has failed but with a couple of hot water bottles, thermos flasks and duvets it has served to transport my kids and various friends to Scotland twice each year and the Beverley contingent has made it to Warwick Folk Festival 4 times so far(Please let it be 5)and Faldingworth twice
Fingers and toes crossed for the MOT - as Hissyfit need to use it for Saddleworth.
I'd be lost without it - old Faithful - Thank God for the RAC !
Happy 'touring'.
H.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 09 Mar 06 - 11:13 AM

Not me Villan. Not a Festival-goer - too many aging hippies. :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Rasener
Date: 09 Mar 06 - 08:01 AM

And you might get invited along Strollin, if you play your cards right :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 09 Mar 06 - 03:49 AM

Second thoughts, I suppose you will get out more now! :-) :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 09 Mar 06 - 03:48 AM

Crawling around at 40 mph with a big queue behind you is exciting???
You need to get out more Sooz! :-)
S:0)

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Sooz
Date: 09 Mar 06 - 02:46 AM

Thanks everyone - your comments have been very helpful. We pick the beast up next week, then it gets exciting!

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Bonecruncher
Date: 08 Mar 06 - 08:40 PM

Congrartulations, Sooz, on joining the ranks of the "sensible ones". Hope you enjoy your new-found friend.
Colyn.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: GUEST,KB
Date: 08 Mar 06 - 09:55 AM

However - if the ground looks dodgy then make sure you park in a position where a towing vehicle can rope onto your van & get you out. I parked facing a hedge, and then had to be towed out of the mud by a rope attached to the back step - luckily it survived, but it made some horrible noises.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Mr Red
Date: 08 Mar 06 - 08:37 AM

(In A Hurry so apologise for duplication)

I have two plastic mats for the car (towing makes it just as important as campervans) , moulded with grips so that you can put them under the drive wheels and get out of snow/mud - they're orange as it happens. Failing that fit-out the floor with cheap off-cuts of carpet and use them in emergency - then ditch them when muddy.

Try to remember which wheels do the driving when parking-up, if it looks dicey put the non drive wheels in the wettest part, don't be prissy about pointing in a direction - point where you can exit cleanly. remember it may be dry when you arrive but after a 4 day festival that field was not designed for camping! You will be dry, will the ground?

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Paul Burke
Date: 08 Mar 06 - 07:29 AM

No, on car parks the height bars are usually to prevent Gypsies from taking up residence.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Leadfingers
Date: 08 Mar 06 - 06:51 AM

100

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Leadfingers
Date: 08 Mar 06 - 06:51 AM

Hey Ted - Where are you ??

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: The Fooles Troupe
Date: 08 Mar 06 - 05:53 AM

Well, actually the height bars do relatively little damage compared with what they are there to warn you about may do...

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Paul Burke
Date: 08 Mar 06 - 05:29 AM

Sounds like a balloon on wheels. Too big for me, I'm afraid.

WARNING:

!!!!DON'T!!!! turn into car parks (open, multistoreys or underground etc), supermarkets,without checking your height. Those horrible height bars...

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Rasener
Date: 08 Mar 06 - 05:09 AM

LOL

A few snippets

On August 16, 1998 a stock Chinook motor-home, with only slight modifications, set a new recorded land speed record (sanctioned by the Southern California Racing Association) of 99.776 mph. This record was set at a density altitude of 5,384 feet. Adjusting to sea level the speed would have been 108 mph.

Most motorhomes regardless of year and size get 5-10 mpg. The class A motorhome are the lowest while the class C motorhomes are a little higher smaller motorhomes also get the best mileage. There are two exceptions to this. One is Diesel Motorhome often get 10-12 mpg. The other exception is class C motorhomes on Toyota Chassis they can be a little hard to find but deliver 14-16 mpg the trade off is the Toyota chassis uses much, much smaller engines than other makes sacrificing power to deliver better fuel economy. Some Toyota based motorhome owners complain of going very slowly up mountain passes. Remember that motorhomes may get very poor gas mileage but they are not daily drivers so unless you plan on using your motorhome on long trips the gas is not that big of a problem overall.

One for Mr Sooz
a motorhome towing a small car with this sign on its back window: "I'm a good car. I go where I'm towed to go.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 08 Mar 06 - 03:25 AM

Don't be daft Villan, it's top speed is 40 mph - it's The Standard required of all campervans. Don't you know they have a limiter fitted on the engine by the manufacturer?

Can't wait to see the decals Sooz!! :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: The Fooles Troupe
Date: 07 Mar 06 - 06:09 PM

Nudge nudge, wink, wink...

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: kendall
Date: 07 Mar 06 - 03:24 PM

Is she a "goer" eh, eh? say no more..

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Rasener
Date: 07 Mar 06 - 01:35 PM

What's its top speed Sooz. Is it a goer?

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Sooz
Date: 07 Mar 06 - 12:34 PM

Sorry, but I've been away at a conference so not in touch!
Its a Fiat based Swift Suntor 500 (2001). Diesel, four berth ..... not sure what else yet!
We'll be adding the flower decals soon SJ! :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 07 Mar 06 - 12:16 PM

So the next time I see a camper doing 60+, I'll know it's you Paul. Must be you because no-one else's will do that speed! :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Paul Burke
Date: 07 Mar 06 - 11:30 AM

The Transit does 30mpg almost irrespective of what I do with it. I suppose it ought to use less cruising at 60-70 on the motorway, but the resistance of the hi-top comes in then.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Rasener
Date: 07 Mar 06 - 10:50 AM

Quote
I've seldom seen a camper doing more than 40
Unquote

Thats cause they can't afford the fuel, to go at fast speeds (within the limit). Its when they are in the outside lane doing 40!!!!!!!!

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 07 Mar 06 - 08:40 AM

I've seldom seen a camper doing more than 40, and that's usually on a motorway, downhill with a strong tail-wind. Not as much of a pain in the bottle as caravans, but a close second. :-)
S:0)

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Rasener
Date: 07 Mar 06 - 08:19 AM

Too slow for Strollin's speed wagon :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Paul Burke
Date: 07 Mar 06 - 07:42 AM

7.5 litres. That's about the size of the engines on a locomotive.

But even my 2.0 litre transit will maintain 55-60 quite happily on ordinary roads, and only drops to 60 on motorways when it's going uphill.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: kendall
Date: 07 Mar 06 - 07:25 AM

Well, Johnnie, I don't know how it is in the UK, but it seems like the motor homes here are all able to maintain highway speed with no trouble. My own has a 454 cubic inch engine, and will go like a scalded hog.
Can someone convert that to CCs?

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 07 Mar 06 - 07:11 AM

Another road-block.......

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: GUEST,Cats
Date: 07 Mar 06 - 06:27 AM

Congratulations. A step well made. What sort is it? Give us all the gen..... then we can all advise on what you must have to go with it. I wouldn't be without silver screens, they are a real must.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Rasener
Date: 06 Mar 06 - 03:57 PM

You haven't bought the Radio Lincolnshire BBC Bus have you Mike and Sue ?

You could tour the country and send out live folk broadcasts.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: GUEST,12stringstan
Date: 06 Mar 06 - 02:01 PM

I once had a little, i.e, 8ftX9ft Caravan, and when the undercarrige started to go, and became a little less road worthy, i bought a Toyota pick up, and had an enginering firm strip the back of the pick up, and mount the caravan to the Chassis of the pick up. a few cosmetic panels and a spray job, cost me what would today be under €1000 (this was 1987) and i got many years enjoyment and sold it on eventually to a retired couple, who enjoyed further happiness. small, cheap nothing wrong with it at all. Sadly no pic though
For something slightly more practical, you could try something like this!

Pic Courtesy of the Motor Caravan Club of Ireland.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 06 Mar 06 - 12:18 PM

Sensible people buy them in Germany where they are cheaper, if they're already going there anyway.
Giok

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Nigel Parsons
Date: 06 Mar 06 - 11:39 AM

Glad you've got one Sooz.

I was getting concerned as an article in today's Torygraph states that prices this year are artificially inflated. This is all down to people buying campers etc., to get to the Soccer World Cup in Germany. It seems that a camper is considered a viable alternative to travelling by plane, and booking an hotel. particularly as the games are spread over a wide area.
Of course, this may mean that a lot of cheaper second hand models will be available next year.

CHEERS
Nigel

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Paul Burke
Date: 06 Mar 06 - 04:50 AM

Well that's a bald statement Sooz, put a wig on it. What is it?

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Rasener
Date: 06 Mar 06 - 01:23 AM

Are you gunna put a picci on your website then?

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 05 Mar 06 - 06:10 PM

I'm sure you'll enjoy it.
Giok

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Michael
Date: 05 Mar 06 - 05:23 PM

Congratulations,Welcome to the Freedom Club, Sooz

Mike

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: kendall
Date: 05 Mar 06 - 05:11 PM

And I'll bet the boss has his own space that doesn't get contaminated by some germ carrier.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 05 Mar 06 - 03:31 PM

I can sell you a nice set of Wampum-Beads and a bottle of Patchouli Oil.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Sooz
Date: 05 Mar 06 - 03:08 PM

Well - we've gone and bought one.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 05 Mar 06 - 02:53 PM

personally i'd prosecute anyone who came back to work with streamers of streptococuses, squirting out of every orifice. self employed its sort of understandable, but anybody who gets their money anyway and just distributes their snotty malevolence on the rest of us willy nilly, out of some sort of martyrdom trip - I'd ship em off to the Gulag or somewhere else in Scotland.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 05 Mar 06 - 08:56 AM

Dear Kendall

The prevailing ambience here in the UK is that if you stay home sick because of a cold you are not "dedicated" and you move one step closer to being the next to get fired.

Beechams' the patent medicine company ran a series of TV ads implying that by use of their "flu-plus" analgesics a worker should go to work with flu or suffer the same consequence.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: kendall
Date: 05 Mar 06 - 08:43 AM

Colds cost businesses millions of dollars in sick days largely because people don't know enough to stay the hell home when they are contaminated. They "need the money", well fine, but they need the money less than I need their germs. I can be very rough on someone sneezing and coughing in my space.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 04 Mar 06 - 02:43 PM

Effin 'Ippies!
:-)

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: kendall
Date: 04 Mar 06 - 08:18 AM

With all its problems, travel in a motor home gives us freedom. If we don't like it where we are, we simply move on. You don't get that in even the posh hotels.
Food prep. is a major advantage. I hate to eat any raw foods such as salads in a restaurant. I don't know if the salad chef washed his hands after his trip to the head or not. Laugh if you wish, but when I see a cook leave the men's room, go directly into the kitchen, and I go to the same men's room and there is only one sink and the soap and the sink are bone dry, I'm gone.And, I don't go back.

I've walked out of a few restaurants when my waitress came to take my order and was coughing all over everything. Furthermore, I complain to the management. If I go to a sandwich shop and the sandwich makers are bare handed, I leave, and I tell them why.

Grumpy? maybe, but I almost never catch colds.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Chorusgirl
Date: 04 Mar 06 - 06:37 AM

Go for it!! Buy it now. It is the nearest thing to freedom you'll find. "Home is where you park it"!!!! and the dog can go too.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Rasener
Date: 02 Mar 06 - 01:44 AM

Have you bought it yet Mr & Mrs Sooz?

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Paul Burke
Date: 01 Mar 06 - 05:45 AM

"Got to be very careful about whether still over the limit when drive off next morning though...."

Yes, but that's as true in a tent, a B&B, a gite, a caravan, and at home.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: JohnInKansas
Date: 01 Mar 06 - 03:40 AM

A favorite trick of a couple of old-timers I've known was to drive out and park somewhere in the country, throw the keys as far as they could manage, and then uncork the bottle and get down to business.

One of them once revealed that his "secret little trick" was to throw the bottle cap in the same direction as the keys. Since the cap was a lot lighter than the keys it wouldn't go too far, and was usually bright enough colored to stand out from the surrounding grass. If he could find the cap when he recovered enough to go hunting, he knew he was headed the right direction to find the keys and go home.

John

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: GUEST
Date: 01 Mar 06 - 02:16 AM

Got to be very careful about whether still over the limit when drive off next morning though....

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Mr Happy
Date: 28 Feb 06 - 07:55 PM

Re:

Sleeping in cars, having consumed enough alcohol to be over the limit to drive.

Some years ago, I enquired at Alder Hey Police Station on whether I could be breathalysed/banned if I slept overnight at Maghull Town Hall carpark after the annual Folk Day.

The fiendly bobby advised that it would be difficult for the law to prove 'intention to drive', even with the keys in my possession - if I had all the seats down & was all ensconced in my sleeping bag.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: JohnInKansas
Date: 28 Feb 06 - 01:45 PM

The obvious differences between US and Euro customs, usage, and conditions make it difficult for me to comment usefully on much, but a couple of items may be helpful.

There has been some mentioned of the frequency with which towed units end up in the ditch. When I purchased my current 26 foot trailer, my dealer advised that I did not need an accessory "sway control" device. HE LIED.

For those using "receiver hitches" small trailers, and expecially the popups that are not taller than the towing vehicle usually don't give much trouble, provided that the towing vehicle is actually suitable for the towing task. If is my "discovered" opinion that any towed vehicle large enough to need a "load sharing" or "equalizer" receiver hitch, or that is taller than the towing vehicle, should have at least a "friction antisway device." This is generally about a $100 to $150 add-on. Even if the trailer tows easily in normal conditions, there will be times when wind, road camber, or other conditions will make it respond "unpredictably" and perhaps uncontrollably.

Different rules apply to the "fifth wheel" hitches that are common here, but it's my impression that those are less common in Europe(?).

For "self-contained" units of any kind:

The most common major failure I've seen or heard frequent reports on, especially for smaller units, is with the built-in refrigerators commonly used. The common propane or multi-power kind invariably operate on a convection cycle that will "stall" if the refrigerator is operated for too long in an unlevel position. If the cycle stalls, the refrigerator will self-destruct. Replacement "cores" for the smaller ones start at close to $1,000 (US) so it is good practice to be careful.

The sensitivity of a given unit to this failure mode seems to be directly related to the height of the convection stack (and size of the refrigerator). In a camper that you can stand up and walk around in comfortably, you'll likely have a tall enough convection column to be safe if the camper "feels level" when you walk around inside. In popups or van conversions, you likely have a very short convection path, 3 feet or less, and a correspondingly small "reserve" volume of refrigerant fluid, and should use at least a small "bubble" level to get accurately leveled before running the refrigerator for more than a very few hours (1 or 2, not 5 or 10) in one place.

About 15% to 20% of popups more than a couple of years old that show up at our biggest festival have replaced their original refrigerator with a "household" electric (AC) only unit. It's not as nice as the original, and only runs where/when you can plug in, but it's a lot cheaper. Another 20% just "don't have a refrigerator any more."

John

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Rasener
Date: 28 Feb 06 - 09:58 AM

Sorry John, I was only joking as per my :-)
However, if you ever get to Lincolnshire, I am sure you would be very welcome at Gainsborough Folk Club, as well as at my club Market Rasen Folk Club some 15 miles apart and we run on opposite Fridays to each other.
Les

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: GUEST,Cats
Date: 28 Feb 06 - 09:27 AM

Living down here in Cornwall, and driving along the main A30 every day to work, gives me another really good reason for a campervan and not caravan. The number of caravans that go over every year is horrendous. It's probably a mixture of reasons like, camber on the road, wind conditions and also thinking Cornwall isn't as far away as it really is!!!! When you've seen one caravan go over and flip the car as well, you'd understand. Yes, campers can be difficult to handle sometimes, particularly in cross winds, but you drive to the conditions. I tend to drive mine at the speed it likes to go, about 65, anything much over that and you can see the fuel gauge moving!!

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Sooz
Date: 28 Feb 06 - 08:05 AM

No need to apologise! Hope to meet up with you sometime.
Brownhills lurk fairly close to us and are very large and expensive so we are avoiding them.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 28 Feb 06 - 05:43 AM

I only came back on to the folk scene about 4 years ago, so I hardly know any of the current crop of UK singers and artists. Through Mudcat though I have got to know lots of nice people and singers and even managed to do Sidmouth and Broadstairs last year my first festivals for about 25 years or more, my last one being about the 3rd or 4th Cambridge.
So please excuse my ignorance, and I hope I will catch up with all these people eventually.
I do live a long way from anything folkie really, and there isn't a regular folk club up here in the frozen north any more. There are a few sessions but they tend to be too diddly diddly for my taste.
I will be coming to the Yorkshire Gathering so will meet a few more, but then Sidmouth is my next one, it's a bit like mounting an expedition to deepest Africa setting up a visit anywhere south of the border from way up here, I'm only about 50 miles from the top edge.
So apologies to Mr and Mrs Sooze, hope we meet up sometime.
Now you see why I need my motorhome!
Giok

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Rasener
Date: 28 Feb 06 - 04:16 AM

By jove John - where have you been? :-)
Mr & Mrs Sooz are otherwise known as Stitherum and play a huge part in running Gainsborough Folk Club & Festival in Lincolnshire.
Maybe you are due a visit to the lowlands :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 28 Feb 06 - 04:06 AM

I don't know where you live Sooz clan but this guy is in Tewkesbury. I have dealt with him, and his prices are good, the guy who runs it is called Mike Ryan. He imports a lot of stuff from Germany so there is a fair bit of LHD which mine is, but I have never found it to be a problem, and of course it is magic over the water. He has a big range of prices and makes, so it might be a good place just to learn about what's available, it's right beside a nice camp site too, so you can stay over.
The only dealer I have heard bad reports about is Brownhills and they have a couple of big sites, their service has been slated on line by a couple of motorhome sites.
Good luck anyway, I'm on my 6th motorhome/camper, and I still hanker after something bigger so it's a bug like GAS [guitar aquisition syndrome]
Giok

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Mr Sooz
Date: 28 Feb 06 - 02:48 AM

Thanks Colyn - we've spent the weekend looking at what is available and read some magazines - now all I have to due is persuade herself to take the big step!

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Ella who is Sooze
Date: 28 Feb 06 - 02:38 AM

hey that's really true... our first was a basic one to see if we liked the lifestyle and the holidays... the second is a little better, and yes we LOVE it loads.

E>W>I>S

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: GUEST
Date: 27 Feb 06 - 09:07 PM

Sooz:

There is an old Chinese proverb which (loosely translated) says:

"The second campervan you buy will be the one you like."

Bev and Jerry

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Bonecruncher
Date: 27 Feb 06 - 08:39 PM

Hellop Sooz
Best advice is to look at as many campervans as possible to try and find out the type (conversion or coachbuilt) and layout that you like. Remember, however, that any camper has to be a compromise between what the designer supplies and what the camper needs.
Try out all facilities. Making the beds can be difficult for some people in some vans, while in others it may be impossible to use the wardrobe or the cooker when the beds are made. Try to find a layout that you think will cause you least inconvenience.
Regarding sites, in the UK it is illegal to camp anywhere you do not have permission.
Roadside verges, laybyes, car parks are all owned by some local authority, none of whom give permission for them to be used as campsites. Doing so tends to upset other people who regard themselves as "normal" and hence casravan/motorhome users tend to be classed along with the travellers and hippies.
There are plenty of "green-field" sites (such as those at folk festivals) at about a fiver a night, which is all that is needed for a self-contained unit such as a camper. The high-spec holiday sites are usually much more expensive and have facilities that you will probably never use.
Buy a few copies of Motorcaravan and Motorhome Monthly for some excellent articles on vans, maintenance, insurance, sites and most other things that a beginner needs.
Best of luck
Colyn.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: kendall
Date: 27 Feb 06 - 04:58 PM

Giok, it's not the people who drive expensive motor homes and campers that you have to worry about. They won't brandish a firearm unless you mean them harm.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Chorusgirl
Date: 27 Feb 06 - 03:02 PM

The mistake we made when we first got ours was planning too far in advance - booked sites in advance and then felt pressured to get there. Best to see what the site is like you are at and then decide whether you want to stay longer or shorter and then as Giok says ring up and enquire/book your next site just before you decide to move on. Usually possible. Just been to Cyrstal Palace for a few days and explored London. No 3 bus takes you to Picadilly Circus and beyond.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 27 Feb 06 - 10:23 AM

Where you score over the humble motorist in the [unlikely!] event of being intoximecated is that you are in a vehicle equiped for sleeping. If you are parked up and the TV is going and the kettle is on the boil it is hard for plod to prove you intend to drive anywhere, especially if you have a camper like mine which is undriveable when the overhead bunk is in the 'down' position.
No Kendall I don't know anybody who drives a 'dry' motorhome either, no guns here though thank goodness!
Giok

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: GUEST
Date: 27 Feb 06 - 08:26 AM

Another option is to get a basic van and convert it yourself. You need to fulfill certain criteria to re-register the van as a camper with DVLA & to get camper van insurance (cheaper than van insurance). Off top of head I think you need a bed, at least one cupboard, a fixed hob/grill thing, a running water setup, and a table that bolts into place. Can all be done very basic. Shield insure self-builds, and will cover you while you get it up to spec (they give 90 days - after which you need to supply photos etc to prove you comply with the requirements).

Self-build website is http://www.sbmcc.co.uk/ and is full of good advice. Has a friendly forum for all the questions you might have.

Basically - its a way to get a very cheap camper van, and you can look around for a base van that suits your requirements & is mechanically sound.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Ella who is Sooze
Date: 27 Feb 06 - 07:57 AM

Went travelling around Scotland last summer. Two weeks of bliss, didn't book the sites all bar one (the one in Edingburgh... and only booked that one because it was during the festival so was wise to book. There's some great sites around Edingburgh and public transport in and around the city is fantastic. Only thing we did the islands and quiet first and should have done festival first and THEN quiet islands second. The festival kind of blew our minds a bit after the peace and tranquility of the Isle of Skye and the surrounding areas. Beautiful though, our campervan was fab, pull in 'kettle' on. We bought a camper guide and usually phone ahead on the day of travel to the next site to say we were coming - as that determined which direction we travelled in then.

FAB!

Ella who is also Sooze but not Sooz :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: kendall
Date: 27 Feb 06 - 07:34 AM

We have 50 states with 50 sets of laws, but generally, a motor home or caravan is considered a vehicle when being driven, but then it is your home when it's stopped. I don't think I know anyone who does not carry booze in their camper, or a firearm under their mattress. Bless that old 2nd amendment.And double bless the 4th.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 27 Feb 06 - 06:56 AM

I was always worried by the vehicle being parked on a public highway thingy - My car is always on a public highway. In theory whenever I have a few I and be done for drunk in charge:-( I believe I fit all the criteria - The car is on a public road. I have the keys available (usualy on my bedside table) and I am over the limit. The letter of the law says I am drunk in charge whether I intend driving or not - Talk about the law being an ass!

Anyhow - Don't want to hijack this thread - Perhaps we should start another on daft laws:-)

Cheers

DtG

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: gnomad
Date: 27 Feb 06 - 06:48 AM

DtG: My understanding of it is that if you are on a public road (including laybys, I'm unsure about public car parks) yes Mr Plod can get you as described if you have the keys, and I can't think of a practical way of not having them to hand. In fact as I understand it even if you are not under the influence you could still be done under one of the 19th century Vagrancy Acts because you don't have what is considered a fit place to spend the night.

In practice people inhabit vans in such places for days at a time, and the law usually leaves them be unless they create a nuisance, or someone perceives them as doing so and complains. This, of course, assumes you don't try it in one of the places which has local by-laws and notices which forbid you to do so.

I was never bothered myself, and none of my acquaintances have told me of having had a problem. That said as a sad old git myself, and with a rather rigid interpretation of the law, I seldom exposed myself to that particular risk.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: jonm
Date: 27 Feb 06 - 06:31 AM

You can only be prosecuted for being drunk in charge of a motor vehicle if it is parked on the public highway. Personally, if I were parking on-road or in a layby I would not wish to be incapable of moving the vehicle should the need arise.

I have successfully debated the issue with a constable while removing stuff from the boot of my car, parked in a driveway, whilst obviously over the eight.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 27 Feb 06 - 05:41 AM

Out of interest how does the 'drunk in charge' law fit in with motorhomes? If you get pissed up and sleep in your car Mr Plod can, apparantly, get you to blow in his little bag and do you for being drunk in charge of a vehicle:-( Not quite as bad as drinking and driving but a nasty little 'gothcher' all the same! Does the same apply to campervans and have there been any such run-ins on record?

I need to know these things due to old-age, sadness and an overwheling urge for collecting stupid trivia...

Cheers

DtG

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: kendall
Date: 26 Feb 06 - 01:35 PM

I have a registery of all the Wal-Mart stores that allow overnight parking. Some of them don't because they don't own the property that the parking lot occupies. It's still a good idea to ask ahead of time because there are those idiots who dump their black water tanks in the lot, then drive away like they had simpy farted.Naturally, the lot is closed to all from then on.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Carol
Date: 26 Feb 06 - 12:07 PM

Very interesting - all things to all men!! And women I suppose, seriously we had a Gobur folding caravan before someone pinched it last year) and it was great, especially when towing and they make them and sell 2nd hand ones in Norfolk. We replaced it with a folding camper, with loo, EHU, etc but canvas sides and a solid roof. The living space feels bigger than the folder but then we have the worry of only really folding it down whan it's dry, usually not a problem now we're retired. We've always had to store our outfit on a storage site, the one at Bessingham at present but it's £200 per year, however security is important, especially after being robbed! We didn't ever buy a campervan as it would have to be our only vehicle so the cons outweighed the pros!
Someone is selling a biggish campervan at the end of our road for £8,500 o.n.o. and I keep on looking at it wistfully but I think overall I'll have to stay with the folding camper, yes if Ernie comes up trumps that's a different matter.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 26 Feb 06 - 11:45 AM

If you just want somewhere to kip - why not get one of those big old volvo estates and put a matress in the back - there would be more room than in one of those tiddly VW things - and they go fast.or you could get a caravan and tow it if its for festivals - but if you just want to go to gig the other end of the country - the volvo would be a less stressfull drive and you could still get a bit of shuteye in the back before the gig.

its funny how these same thoughts occupy us all

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: gnomad
Date: 26 Feb 06 - 09:53 AM

Like Giok I could drive mine at the national speed limit, it still returned 35+ mpg (diesel) and felt safe in all but the worst crosswinds.

Part of the trick IMO is to keep all possible weight low down, and to buy a van which is as little modified from the base vehicle as possible, thus retaining the structural integrity and handling characteristics. Avoid high roof additions which increase drag and susceptibility to side force from wind or other vehicles (I soon got to find I preferred to cook sitting down, where is it written that you have to stand?).

Above all avoid the van conversions in which an oversize, caravan-like body has been dropped onto an under-powered and under-sized chassis; they look as stable as a camel wearing high heels, and their progress is about as effective. Luckily these seem to have gone out of fashion.

Of course if money is plentiful then the A-class, built from the bare chassis could well be the right route, but consider where you intend to use it as alpine roads, or Devon lanes become more of a challenge as vehicle size increases.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: MaineDog
Date: 26 Feb 06 - 09:18 AM

Most Wal-Mart stores (US) will let you park your motorhome overnight, or several nights, for free, but no hookups are provided. Call the store first if you are counting on this at some distant location.
MD

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 26 Feb 06 - 08:59 AM

One of the biggest advantages of a motohome over a caravan is that you are not limited, and can do 70 on the motorway, and I do. I certainly don't hang about at 45 and it is unfair to characterize them in that way. I know Strolling Johnny's post was tongue in cheek, but there are many people who actually feel that way, and I see no point in perpetuating the myth.
Yes all high sided vehicles can be a handfull in a high wind, the answer is to slow down, not many people know that! You can also add airbags to the rear springs which reduces roll, and they should in fact be fitted as standard they improve handling so much.
I still like having my little home with me, and all the 'mod-cons' that it provides, it's still the best answer I have come up with so far for festivals etc.
I certainly would never even consider owning a caravan.
Giok

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: kendall
Date: 26 Feb 06 - 08:53 AM

Now, the damn generator won't start!

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 26 Feb 06 - 08:47 AM

Burn the bodhran Richard, then everybody will be happier! :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: kendall
Date: 26 Feb 06 - 08:35 AM

I had a one bedroom house and a 20' Winnebago Toyota motorhome. Both were big enough then I got married. Suddenly everything I own was too small (shut up Spaw). I've now ended up with a three bedroom ranch and a 33' Fleetwood motorhome. Damn thing has its own zip code.

It's always a good idea to look ahead, whatever you're driving, but with this thing you can't even take for granted that the road will be wide enough. It gets about 9 miles to the gallon and it seems like it comes up with a new problem every time I drive it. Recently an exhaust leak cost me $600

These rigs are fun, picture driving your own living room down the road at 60 mph, but it is a very expensive hobby. I would never want to drive this rig in the UK. The secret is get one that is just barely big enough for your own purposes and don't go overboard.

If the clicky works you can see our rig http://www.flickr.com/photos/82714470@N00/104620164/

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Shields Folk
Date: 26 Feb 06 - 08:14 AM

Get one like mine and drive around with a permanent smile on your face

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 26 Feb 06 - 08:05 AM

You go to get more beer in the morning, before drinking starts for the day.

Caravans are limited to 60 in the UK, and it doesn't take much more than that for snaking to tend to set in, but I aim to drive up to the limit (where safe).

I'm told by campervan people that vans can be just as much of a problem to keep straight at speed/in wind. So I still don't see what the campervan has over the caravan. It's hard enough finding space for a mandolin, a bodhran, a 6-string guitar, as 12 string guitar, and some songbooks (as well as the beer) in a caravan, so I'm damned if I know where I'd put them in a campervan, unless it was a huge American thing.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Rasener
Date: 26 Feb 06 - 05:34 AM

Found the right bike for when you get there

Stitherum Bike

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: GUEST,SirTK
Date: 26 Feb 06 - 05:15 AM

There has been a proliferation of these things all over the continent. I tow a folder so can do up to 80 mph easily and safely. Caravans seem to do about 55 mph and campervans less than 45 mph, so by and large they are a bloody nuisance. It may just be the people who buy them that want to travel so slowly on autoroutes, or maybe that's the speed at which they are most comfortable. Or something.

In France particularly there is the phenomenon of the campervan overnighter park. Much like a layby, the campervans all line up side by side about 4 feet apart and don't have to pay for their overnight stay. My idea of hell on wheels.

They seem to me to be too much of a compromise to be really convenient, as I can't see what they have over a caravan - especially if you tow a car behind them, that's just a caravan towing a car instead of the other way around.

cheers, Terry

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Sooz
Date: 26 Feb 06 - 05:02 AM

That is taking tradition a step too far!

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Rasener
Date: 26 Feb 06 - 04:14 AM

Here is an interesting one Sooz - first picture at top of page.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/bradford/caravan/caravans_cool.shtml

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Cats
Date: 25 Feb 06 - 09:04 AM

We have a camper van, an Autosleeper Rambler on a Talbot Express base and wouldn't be without it. Apart from having to make sure everything is locked down before you drive off, that outweighs all else. Central heating for cold winters, late autumns and early springs, running hot water when you wake up, your own toilet and shower..... We always take a small awning with us which is useful for keeping wet clothes in or having that extra bit of space if you are away for any length of time. Disadvantages, not being able to drive off , but, most sites let you put your number plate up, so your space is there when you get back and if you have your awning up you just leave it up and hitch back up when you get back. Make sure you get one with power steering which means you can turn them on a sixpence and they are incredibly easy to manouevre. Watch out for height boards! Have fun.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 25 Feb 06 - 09:00 AM

Nowhere to wash though! :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: julian morbihan
Date: 25 Feb 06 - 06:32 AM

Hi Sooz

I've been going to folk festivals for years with frame tents and then trailer tents - they all took ages to put up and got hot and tired before the festival had even started.

On getting a campervan, I turn up at the site, put on the handbreak,then put on the kettle (sorry, that's a metaphor for opening a bottle)!

I wouldn't be without now. The noise of the camp site doesn't penetrate like it does through canvas. The downside is that I have tended to sleep in as the sunlight doesn't get in either!

The van I've got is on a short wheelbase FIAT Ducato,with two single two metre beds, loo, shower, cooker, fridge, loads of storage and four proper, belted, forward facing seats. It's a real TARDIS, huge on the inside but fits into an ordinary car parking space (apart from the extra height). It drives like a car but with the added advantage of the extra height which is good in traffic and also for seeing over fences and hedges...

However, I have recently moved to live in Brittany and though I would love to keep my lovely RHD campervan, it is going to be more practical to sell this one and buy a LHD one. So get in touch and we can discuss further.

Talking of France, we used the van whilst house hunting and travelling around from the base of a rented cottage, we covered 12000 miles in 9 months and only paid once to stay on a "proper" campsite. All the other nights were at "Aire de Service" or "Aire de Repos", places actually set aside for campervans to stay overnight and to empty and refill water, loo, etc.

Cheers

Julian

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 25 Feb 06 - 06:05 AM

ROFL Sooz!! Let me know when you're getting rid of the Cruiser. :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Sooz
Date: 25 Feb 06 - 04:50 AM

Don't call us unwashed SJ!

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Strollin' Johnny
Date: 25 Feb 06 - 04:18 AM

Bloody Effin' Nuisances the whole soddin'lot of 'em, stupid old unwashed weekend-gypsy-hippie-farts pissing about crawling around at 35, clogging up the road and stopping us Inter-County-Smoothies in our speedy roadsters from getting up to our standard, safety-conscious 120 mph cruising speed on the way down to Sainsbury's.

They should all be dragged out of their silly tin cans and strung up by their sad old beards, or choked with their own wampum-beads. Then their friggin' campervans could be put to a far better use, maybe as chicken-coops or summat.

S:0) (LOL)

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 25 Feb 06 - 04:03 AM

MORE beer Richard? Sounds as though you shouldn't be driving in that state!
Anyway why do you think most of them have a bike rack on the back, or tow a little car behind them?
Yes, it's for going down the pub!
If my health allows me to go to Sidders again this year, I shall be towing my little car behind my van on a trailer
Giok

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Rasener
Date: 25 Feb 06 - 03:53 AM

Having experienced Mr Sooz driving a great big removal van, he wouldn't have any problem driving any campervan or towing a caravan.

I would have thought a caravan was far more practical. You can leave it on your pitch and go off and have a very nice day in your car.
The other advantage, is when you have had a skinful and are in line for the guinness book of records for snoring and farting, you can sleep in the car and let the missus get a good nights sleep in the caravan, If you take a dog kennel as well, you can have the dog guard you belongings whilst you have a nice day :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 24 Feb 06 - 06:01 PM

The biggest campervan snags I think are having to un-pitch before driving off site to (for example) the off-licence to get more beer, and having to drive a large sluggish and thirsty vehicle (possibly also unstable at speed or in high winds) for the rest of the year - and less internal space than a caravan, usually, which is important for those with GAS (guitar acquisition syndrome). I don't see any big advantage over a caravan and I see several disadvantages. But I hate towing so much (snarl, overtaking all but impossible, and max speed of 60) that I am thinking of scrapping the caravan and going back to tent...

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 24 Feb 06 - 09:42 AM

Here's a couple of pics of mine, it has a swing down double berth over the front seats so the bed can be left 'made up' and swung down when needed. It is a Hymer which is a good quality German make, but there are plenty of other makes around. I've had motor homes with tha original cab still fitted and the rest built onto the chassis/cab but find they don't have so much room as what I now have which is called an "A" Class type of build.
This site has a menu that will show you typical interior layouts of Hymers, many makes have similar layouts now. The company is the one I bought from, and while they are not cheap, they give a good service and are very helpful. Just have a troll round the internet there are plenty for sale, and the season isn't too far off so prices will go up soon, so you might still pick up a bargain.
Giok

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: jonm
Date: 24 Feb 06 - 09:28 AM

You have to do the washing up, and put everything away, before you drive off.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Sooz
Date: 24 Feb 06 - 08:59 AM

Thanks for all that - I'm getting quite enthusiastic!

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Paul Burke
Date: 24 Feb 06 - 08:43 AM

I've used campsites, and also just parked at the roadside, both in towns and out in the sticks in laybys. If you're out of the way, you're unlikely to get disturbed. As long as you find somewhere to empty the porta-potty of course. campsites are like campsites for tents- the popular ones get booked up, so for high season, school hols etc., and honeypot locations, at least phone in advance.

And watch the height bar you so commonly find at campsite entrances, especially abroad- I saw a bloke drive his car straight through, followed by a brand new caravan, neatly slicing off all the vents on the roof.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 24 Feb 06 - 08:41 AM

I sleep parked in lay-bys sometimes, and for a measly amount which sometimes includes breakfast you can stop overnight on MWay service areas. There are lots of what is known as 'wild-camping' spots, and a quick Google will help you there. Local Industrial Estates are another favourite ad hoc stopover spot.
Giok

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Sooz
Date: 24 Feb 06 - 08:32 AM

Do you have to use campsites? Is prebooking essential? I imagine that spontaneity is not as simple as I would like!

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Paul Burke
Date: 24 Feb 06 - 08:30 AM

I assume you mean a UK style one, not a US RV that tows an SUV behind it just to do the shopping...

I've got a 2,0 diesel Transit SWB, it's reasonably manoeuvrable, not too thirsty (30mpg), slow especially up hills, high so watch car park entrances and crosswinds, comfortable enough to sleep in if you park it on the flat. It's quite cold in winter and hot in summer unless you open the windows and let the wasps in.

One thing to watch out for-- how easy is it to set the bed out? In my brother's VW, you have to turn the seats round (which involves opening the doors), and assemble a jigsaw of cushiony bits, which is not something you want to do drop taken in the dark. (by the way, it's for sale, but he wants £15000+ for it).

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Ella who is Sooze
Date: 24 Feb 06 - 08:27 AM

It's great... most sites are very orgnanised with their pitches so, you don't get the problems mentioned above... or, it they are not then you can get a 'pitch board' and stick that up while you are away.

We've a VW camper, you can just jump in it and away you go. Best tip for camping though... get a camper you don't have to 'put away' - the soft tops are a pain as you have to put the roof back down before you set off anywhere. That was all we found with our previous one.

Apart from that, then GREAT FUN.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Leadfingers
Date: 24 Feb 06 - 08:20 AM

The only drawback I can think of to a campervan , is that SHOULD you need to DRIVE any where (As in Food Shopping), there is NO guarantee that your site will still be there when you return ! Which is why a lot of campervans carry pushbikes on the back - And some of the larger ones tow a car !!

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: gnomad
Date: 24 Feb 06 - 08:17 AM

I had one for 10 years. Good for solo or for a couple, a family might want a pup tent or two as well. Very good for an overnight stop, especially if arriving in the dark, almost no setting up.

Surprisingly cheap to insure, but you will need to go to a specialist broker (plenty of adverts in the motorcaravanning mags) as few general motor insurers will even quote.

If you are holidaying and want to have some days away from the site you may need either a suplementary vehicle, or some form of tent annexe to keep your pitch.

One snag. If you habitually park where it can be identified with your home by a passerby, then when the van goes away for the weekend you are advertising that the house is empty. A review of home security can be useful. This is the same with any other vehicle, of course, but a van is just that little bit more obvious, don't let it put you off.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Mr Red
Date: 24 Feb 06 - 08:10 AM

I used to own the Fiat conversion - the shape of the archetypal V-dub but smaller

it did 35 mpg (UK) and was as easy to drive as a car. Sluggish but the neatest thing was that it fitted into our garage with up and over doors - which is not usually the case even with the old VW combi.

There was one based on the Citreon van (car size) that had an all plastic roof that could be raised but the current models have fixed hifh rooves. Otherwise all the ones I see would not fit in a garage that easily.

they often keep their value because they are usually second vehicals and low mileage. If not , not.

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 24 Feb 06 - 07:58 AM

Depends what you are looking for in the way of accomodation and facilities. I have owned all sorts from VW caravanettes through American Dayvans to what I now have which is a 3 berth Hymer with it's own seperate shower, invaluable at festivals!
What I really want is a big American one with a generator, and an island double bed, but it's all a pipe dream unless Ernie helps out.
Giok

Subject: RE: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: jacqui.c
Date: 24 Feb 06 - 07:57 AM

From the other side of the Pond - they are great, but will probably need more maintenance than a car. There seems to be more that can go wrong, and does.

Dependant on size you may need more space for parking and manoeuvering and that may be difficult someplaces.

You have to get used to the noise of anything that isn't tied down clanking or bouncing around when you're on the move and the ride can be more bmpy than in a car.

Having said that, it's great to be able to stop somewhere and know that you don't have to find accomodation/put up a tent before you can eat or sleep or go get plastered.

Kendall's voice is coming back - maybe we'll get him to do his RV song when we get to Gainsborough next.

Subject: BS: Campervans (UK)
From: Sooz
Date: 24 Feb 06 - 07:46 AM

We're thinking of buying a campervan. What are the snags we might not have thought of? (Don't mention noisy festival campsites!!:-))