Bristol Caravans and Motorhomes

The Best Rear View Camera Setup for Your Motorhome: What You Need to Know

If you’ve ever tried reversing your motorhome into a narrow pitch or changing lanes on a busy dual carriageway, you’ll know just how tricky it can be without clear visibility behind you. Large vehicles like motorhomes have significant blind spots, especially at the rear, and standard mirrors don’t always cut it. That’s why more and more motorhome owners are investing in rear view camera systems. Not just for reversing but for everyday peace of mind while driving. In this guide, we’ll explain exactly what you need to know to choose the right rear view camera setup for your motorhome, based […]

Ford Transit Wet Cam Belt Issues and The Fix

If you own a motorhome built on a Ford Transit platform, there’s an engine design issue you should know about. It’s called the wet cambelt, also known as a wet timing belt.Some modern Transit engines route the cambelt through the engine oil in the sump. This makes the belt vulnerable to oil contamination. In motorhomes, especially diesel ones where DPF (diesel particulate filter) regeneration can fail, this can cause serious belt damage. Over time, the rubber in the belt breaks down. Fibres can shed into the oil system, leading to problems from clogged oil filters to total engine failure. If […]

How Much Solar Power Do I Need for My Motorhome?

A Complete Guide for Off-Grid Freedom: Solar power has become one of the most popular upgrades for motorhome owners and it’s not hard to see why. The idea of parking anywhere, powering your fridge, lights, and devices without relying on hook-ups or noisy generators is incredibly appealing. But one of the first (and most important) questions that comes up is: “How much solar power do I need to run everything in my motorhome?” Whether you’re travelling part-time or living full-time on the road, the answer depends on a few key factors, most importantly, your energy usage and how much sunlight […]

Motorhome Wi-Fi for UK Campsites

Why is Best Motorhome Wi-Fi System important? Well staying connected while touring the UK in a motorhome, campervan or caravan is more important than ever. Motorhome Wi-Fi has become the generic “go to” term, but in reality we are talking about a system that has its own sim card, where you stream mobile data to access the internet. Whether you’re streaming TV, working remotely, navigating with GPS, or simply keeping in touch, a solid internet connection can make life on the road a lot easier. But not all campsites offer reliable Wi-Fi and relying on your phone’s hotspot isn’t always […]

How Can I Tell If My Motorhome Is Damp?

Damp is one of the most common and dreaded problems motorhome owners face. Left untreated, it can lead to structural damage, costly repairs, and even health issues. The key to avoiding serious damp problems is early detection but how can you tell if your motorhome has damp before it becomes a major issue? In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at the signs of dampness, the tools you can use to detect it, common problem areas, and how to deal with it early to avoid long-term consequences. Whether you’re a seasoned motorhome owner or just starting out, knowing how […]

How Much Does It Cost to Fit a Motorhome Towbar in 2025?

If you’re planning to tow a car, trailer, or bike rack behind your motorhome, a professionally fitted towbar is essential, not just for safety, but also to ensure legal compliance and peace of mind. But how much does it actually cost to fit a motorhome towbar in 2025? Before we jump into the detail, please can I introduce myself, I’m Oakleigh and I started Bristol Caravans to deliver great customer experiences, don’t take my word for it, please read our reviews. We are a one-stop-shop, from Engine and Habitation services, to fitted accessories like motorhome levelling systems and rear air suspension. Before we […]

Motorhome parked off-grid in a scenic mountain landscape with rooftop solar panels visible

Can I Use My Existing Charger and Solar Setup with A Lithium Battery for My Motorhome?

Switching to a lithium battery in your motorhome is an exciting upgrade. Lithium batteries offer longer life, lighter weight, higher usable capacity, and faster charging compared to traditional lead-acid or AGM batteries. But a common question for motorhome owners is: Can I use my existing charger and solar setup with A lithium battery? The short answer is: sometimes yes, but often not without some adjustments or upgrades. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore how lithium batteries differ from lead-acid types, why charging compatibility matters, what to look for in your current equipment, and how to optimise your charging system for […]

Faults, Problems and What Happens When You Breakdown

Let’s face it: breakdowns happen. Things go wrong. Systems fail. And when you’re hundreds (or even thousands) of miles from home, it’s more than just frustrating — it can bring your entire trip to a standstill. At Bristol Caravans, we see this all the time. From blown fuses and battery issues to full levelling systems that decide to give up on a slope in the Algarve. Take Lisa and Bill, for example. They’re seasoned motorhome travelers who love touring across Europe. But during one of their trips, their Amplo automatic levelling system packed in. One minute everything was working. The […]

Lithium Batteries with Renogy

– Bristol Caravans, the First Approved UK Workshop As a professional installer at Bristol Caravans, I’ve spent years upgrading motorhomes, campervans, and caravans with the latest tech. Power systems are one of the most important upgrades we do—and right now, lithium batteries are hands down the best option out there. Even better? We’re proud to be the first fully approved Renogy dealer and workshop in the UK. That’s right—if you want expert advice, installation, and aftercare for Renogy lithium batteries, there’s no better place to come than here. Why Lithium Batteries Make All the Difference Whether you’re parked up in […]

Levelling-System-MA-VE-MAN

Motorhome Levelling System Warranty

What warranty does your motorhome leveling system come with? By Oakleigh | Bristol Caravans “It’s not about how fast you drive. It’s about how level you park.” A customer said that to me once while I was elbow-deep in a motorhome’s hydraulic system. I chuckled, but he was absolutely right. When you’re out exploring in a motorhome, being level is more than a convenience—it’s essential. Your sleep, your cooking, even your fridge depends on it. So let’s get into it. Today we’re answering a simple but important question:What kind of motorhome levelling system warranty can you actually expect? Because it […]

Damp Meter

Damp Repair: Keep Your Leisure Vehicle Dry

As the proud owner of Bristol Caravans, I’ve helped countless customers tackle one of the most frustrating issues in the world of leisure vehicles: damp repair. Whether you own a caravan, campervan, or motorhome, damp can creep in unnoticed and quickly cause costly damage. In this blog, I’m sharing expert tips on how to prevent damp, how to treat it, and what you need to know about damp repairs and inspections. Damp in Motorhomes: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment Knowing how to prevent and treat damp starts with understanding the causes. Most damp issues we see in our workshop come from: […]

12v Lithium Battery – What’s best for your Leisure Vehicle

Upgrading your leisure vehicle’s power system is a game-changer, and at Bristol Caravans, we believe one of the most important upgrades you can make is switching to a 12v lithium battery. These batteries offer exceptional performance, efficiency, and durability, ensuring your adventures are powered for longer. As a trusted leisure vehicle repair and upgrade specialist, we know that a 12v Lithium Battery is a smart investment for anyone serious about maximising their motorhome experience. Lead-Acid vs Lithium Batteries – A Complete Comparison When it comes to powering your motorhome or caravan, you may be wondering whether to stick with your […]

Amplo Motorhome Self Levelling System

Why I recommend Amplo… Amplo Motorhome Self Levelling System is a great system for a motorhome enthusiast, as ensuring that your trips are comfortable and stress-free is crucial. That’s why at Bristol Caravans I install the Amplo Motorhome Self Levelling System. Not only does it provide effortless automatic levelling, but it also features a remarkable design that requires no holes to be drilled into the chassis. This unique aspect is a key feature as it means less risk of permanent damage to your motorhome. Turn to Bristol Caravans, to handle your Amplo Self Levelling System installation. Our attention to detail, […]

MA-VE Levelling System – Great Price!

MA-VE the Most Cost-Effective Upgrade for Your Motorhome If you’ve ever struggled with uneven ground while parking your motorhome, you know the frustration. Imagine having a simple, cost-effective hydraulic levelling system that levels your motorhome in minutes without any hassle. That’s where the MA-VE Levelling System comes in. At Bristol Caravans, we believe it’s the perfect upgrade for your motorhome—especially if you have a Ford or Mercedes-base. Let’s dive into why the MA-VE Levelling System is the best choice for you! What Makes the MA-VE Levelling System So Special? The MA-VE Levelling System stands out in the motorhome world because […]

12v Off Grid Air Con

12v Air Con for Motorhomes

The Ultimate Air Conditioning Solution for Caravans, Motohomes & Campervans: Indel B Plein-Aircon 12v. As more people across the UK embrace the freedom of campervan travel, comfort on the road has become a top priority – especially for the mature traveller seeking convenience without compromising on quality. If you’re a campervan owner looking to keep cool while touring the countryside or enjoying a seaside getaway, the Indel B Plein-Aircon 12v roof-mounted air conditioning unit is the perfect upgrade to your vehicle. 12v Aircon for Caravans, Motorhomes & Campervans up to Six Metres The Indel B Plein-Aircon is a sleek, 12v […]