General

“Is that everything?” “Just a couple more things!” You know how it goes… You’ve packed the bags, filled the cupboards, loaded the garage and, despite promising yourself you’d pack light this time, it still seems like an awful lot of stuff. Then you remember you’ve not even strapped the bikes on yet. You get them on, stand back and take a look. Suddenly, the motorhome doesn’t quite look (or feel) like it normally does. The rear is sitting a little lower. There’s a fair bit of weight over the back axle, and you’re wondering how it’s going to feel once […]

A motorhome’s rear suspension works hard. Heavy leisure loads, water tanks, bike racks, tow bars and extended rear overhangs can place significant demands on the rear axle and springs. If your motorhome is sitting low at the rear, feels unsettled under load or is regularly reaching the limits of its suspension travel, it could be time to look at the condition of the original suspension and whether rear-air suspension is the right upgrade. Why Does a Motorhome Rear Suspension Sag? Most motorhomes use a commercial-vehicle chassis with rear leaf springs. These are designed to carry a range of loads, but […]

Written by Oakleigh Wood There is nothing quite like the excitement of arriving at your campsite, pitching your caravan, motorhome or campervan, and looking forward to a cold drink or a freshly prepared meal. But for many owners of modern caravans, particularly those built from 2020 onwards, that arrival ritual can come with an unpleasant surprise: a warm fridge, melted ice blocks, spoiled food or, heaven forbid, warm beer! If you have noticed that your Thetford 3-way fridge works perfectly on gas and 230V mains electric hook-up, but completely fails to keep your food cold while you are towing, you […]

If you own a motorhome and enjoy taking bikes or e-bikes away with you, adding extra equipment to the rear of your vehicle can create some important challenges. A towbar-mounted bike rack, several e-bikes, a scooter or another rear-mounted carrier can add significant weight behind the rear axle. This can cause the rear suspension to sag, reduce ground clearance and affect the way your motorhome handles on the road. So, can rear air suspension help you carry more bikes or a heavier towbar-mounted load? It can provide additional support for a rear-mounted load, but it does not increase your motorhome’s […]

Written by Oakleigh Wood Adding an awning to your motorhome, campervan or caravan can be a fantastic way to enjoy more outdoor space, have somewhere to sit in the shade and benefit from extra shelter when the British weather does what it does best. But there’s one part of the process that can quickly become much more complicated than expected: fitting the awning. Choosing the right brackets and working out exactly how – and where – your awning can be mounted is where a seemingly straightforward upgrade can turn into a headache. “Surely I just need an awning that fits?” […]

Having problems with the 12V electrics in your motorhome or caravan? Electrical issues can be frustrating, particularly when everything appears to work normally on mains electricity or gas. The good news is that many common 12V problems can be traced back to a small number of causes. In this guide, we’ll look at three of the most common motorhome and caravan 12V electrical problems, along with some simple checks that can help you identify what’s going wrong and when it’s time to get professional help. Problem 1: The Fridge Isn’t Working Properly on 12V One of the most common complaints is […]

If you’re considering rear air suspension for your campervan or motorhome, you’ll generally come across two options: manual air suspension and compressor-based, fully adjustable air suspension. How each system works Both systems use airbags to provide additional support to the rear of the vehicle, helping to improve ride height, stability and handling. The main difference is how you control the air pressure. For many motorhome owners, the convenience and adjustability of a compressor system can make a noticeable difference, particularly when travelling with different loads. Manual system: Best for someone who sets their preferred pressure once and generally drives with a similar load. […]

One of the most common questions new motorhome owners ask is, “How long does a motorhome water tank last?” The answer depends on several factors, including the size of your fresh water tank, how many people are travelling, and how carefully you use your water. In this guide, we’ll explain what affects your water supply, how long you can expect it to last, and share some simple tips to make it go further when you’re touring or camping off-grid. The Short Answer For most motorhomes, a full fresh water tank will last: These estimates assume sensible water usage for washing […]

If you’re considering upgrading your motorhome with rear air suspension, you may be wondering whether it’s a DIY job or something best left to the professionals. While some air suspension kits are marketed as suitable for competent home mechanics, professional installation is strongly recommended for motorhomes. Given the weight of these vehicles and the importance of the suspension system to safe handling and braking, having the work carried out by an experienced installer is the safest and most reliable option. Why Professional Installation Matters Rear air suspension is a safety-critical modification. The system must be fitted correctly to ensure it […]

There’s nothing more frustrating than arriving at your destination, flicking on the lights, and… nothing. No lights, no water pump, no heating controls, and perhaps even a blank control panel. If your motorhome’s 12V system has suddenly stopped working, don’t panic. In many cases, the problem is something relatively simple that can be identified before you assume the worst. Here’s a guide to the most common causes and what you can check yourself. What Does the 12V System Power? Your motorhome has two separate electrical systems: The 12V system typically powers: If none of these are working, it’s time to […]

A reliable electrical system is essential for a safe and comfortable caravanning experience. From powering lights and appliances to charging batteries and running safety equipment, caravan electrics play a vital role in everyday use. However, electrical problems can occur over time due to wear, corrosion, loose connections, or faulty components. This guide explains common caravan electrical issues and the steps you can take to prevent them. Understanding Your Caravan Electrical System Most caravans have two electrical systems: 1. 12-Volt DC System The 12V system is powered by the leisure battery and typically runs: 2. 230-Volt AC System The 230V system […]

One of the most common questions we get asked is, “How much does a lithium system weigh?” The answer is simple: the total weight of a lithium system is the combined weight of all the individual components. While the battery is the heaviest single item, a complete off-grid power system also includes charging equipment, an inverter, solar panels, wiring, and installation hardware. Knowing the overall system weight is particularly important for caravans, motorhomes, campervans and 4WD touring vehicles, where payload limits can make a significant difference. Below is an example of a typical Renogy-based lithium power system. Renogy Under Seat […]

If you’re new to caravanning, motorhoming, or campervan travel, emptying the toilet cassette might seem like one of the more daunting tasks. The good news is that it’s a quick and hygienic process once you know what to do. With a little preparation and the right technique, you’ll have it done in just a few minutes. What Is a Toilet Cassette? A toilet cassette is a removable waste tank found in most portable caravan and motorhome toilets. It collects waste and can be easily removed for emptying at designated disposal points, often found on campsites, motorhome service areas, and some […]

If you’ve recently upgraded your motorhome to a lithium battery system, you’ve probably come across the term “battery shunt.” While it may look like a small, simple component, a shunt plays a vital role in helping you monitor your battery’s performance and ensuring you always know how much power you have available. In this blog, we’ll explain what a shunt is, how it works, why it’s essential for a motorhome lithium battery system and how it can help you get the most from your off-grid adventures. What Is a Battery Shunt? A battery shunt is a precision measuring device that […]

If you’re considering upgrading your motorhome, campervan or caravan’s electrical system, one of the most common questions is: Can I replace my leisure battery with a lithium battery? The short answer is yes. In most cases, you can replace a traditional lead-acid, AGM or gel leisure battery with a lithium (LiFePO4) battery. However, there are a few important factors to consider to ensure your new battery performs safely and efficiently. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know before making the switch. Why Upgrade to a Lithium Battery? Lithium batteries have become increasingly popular among motorhome owners, especially […]

One of the first questions many new motorhome owners ask is, “How do I fill my fresh water tank?” While it’s a simple task once you know how, understanding the process will help ensure you always have a safe and reliable supply of clean water for your travels. In this guide, we’ll explain how to fill your motorhome’s fresh water tank, where you can find drinking water and a few tips to keep your water system in excellent condition. What Is a Fresh Water Tank? Your motorhome’s fresh water tank stores clean water that is used for everyday tasks, including: […]

If you’re considering upgrading your motorhome’s electrical system, you’ve probably heard about solid state lithium batteries. Touted as the next generation of energy storage, these batteries promise improved safety, longer lifespan, faster charging, and greater energy density than traditional lithium batteries. But are solid state lithium batteries actually suitable for motorhomes today? In this guide, we’ll explain what solid state batteries are, how they compare with conventional lithium batteries, and whether they’re the right choice for your motorhome. A solid state lithium battery uses a solid electrolyte instead of the liquid electrolyte found in conventional lithium-ion batteries. This new technology […]

If you own a Danbury campervan, you already know it’s more than just a vehicle, it’s your ticket to unforgettable adventures. Whether you’re heading to the Cornish coast, exploring the Scottish Highlands or enjoying weekends away, keeping your campervan professionally serviced is essential for safe, reliable travel. If you’re searching for the best place to get a Danbury campervan serviced, look no further than Bristol Caravans. Our award-winning workshop in Bristol specialises in servicing, repairs, maintenance and upgrades for campervans, motorhomes and caravans, helping owners enjoy complete peace of mind before every journey. Why Your Danbury Campervan Needs Specialist Servicing […]

For many motorhome owners, setting up camp can be one of the least enjoyable parts of the journey. Positioning leveling blocks, crawling under the rig, and ensuring your motohome is stable and not damaging. Fortunately, innovations like motorhome SnapPads have changed the game, offering a simpler and more convenient solution that can be used with leveling and help stablise your motorhome. What Are Motorhome SnapPads? Motorhome SnapPads are permanent rubber jack pads designed to attach directly to your motorhome leveling jack feet. Unlike traditional wood blocks or removable plastic pads, SnapPads stay attached to your motorhome at all times, eliminating […]

There’s nothing better than exploring in your motorhome during the summer months, until the inside starts feeling like a greenhouse. Motorhomes can heat up quickly, especially when parked in direct sunlight, making it uncomfortable to relax, sleep, or even enjoy your holiday. The good news is that there are plenty of simple ways to keep your motorhome cool, along with some worthwhile upgrades that can make a significant difference. Park Smart One of the easiest ways to reduce heat build-up is choosing where you park. Whenever possible: Even a few hours of shade can dramatically lower internal temperatures. Maximise Ventilation […]

Off-Grid Motorhome Air Conditioning: Why 12V AC is a Game Changer For many motorhome and campervan owners, the appeal of off-grid travel is simple: complete freedom. Whether you’re exploring the Scottish Highlands, touring the coast of Europe, or enjoying a quiet countryside stopover, being able to camp without relying on campsite facilities is one of the greatest advantages of motorhome ownership. However, as temperatures rise during the summer months, staying comfortable can become a challenge. This is where 12V air conditioning is transforming the off-grid experience. Unlike traditional air conditioning systems that require a 230V electric hook-up or inverter, a […]