Make the most of your holiday with expert tips from Camptoo CEO, Martijn Peeters, on how to ensure a successful road trip.
There’s no better feeling than loading up the campervan or motorhome and hitting the open road for a summer camping trip.
From useful apps to download, to the rules around wild camping and lighting fires, Martijn Peeters, CEO of Camptoo, is sharing expert tips to ensure an enjoyable road trip and camping experience this summer.
Before you go…
- Useful apps
“There is nothing more stressful than being 20 minutes’ drive from the next petrol station and being very low on fuel,” says Martijn. “Save yourself added stress by downloading the free Petrol Prices app, which compares fuel prices and highlights petrol stations in your area. Similarly, the Toilet Finder app (yes, it really exists) is incredibly useful to finding your nearest restroom on-the-go.”
- Eco-friendly toiletries
“Lessen your impact on the environment by choosing non-plastic toiletries wherever possible. Think bamboo toothbrushes, solid shampoo bars and organic washing-up liquid. Similarly, there are many eco-friendly laundry detergents for use at campsite laundry facilities and take microfibre towels that require fewer washes.”
- Pack light
“Only pack what you really need for a camping trip, as space is minimal. Taking a backpack is better than a suitcase as you can use it for daytrips too. Roll your clothes, rather than fold, as this saves space in your bag. It’s best to take lots of layers as the weather can be unpredictable, and warm days can quickly turn into chilly nights. Dry shampoo is useful, plus sun cream, plasters and proper walking shoes if you plan to hike.”
- Outdoor must-haves
“There are some really cool outdoor seating designs, but we love the lightweight Trono chair inflates within seconds and provides a cool and comfortable seat. Camping and barbeques go hand in hand, but choose a compostable version, such as the Casus Grill which is 100 per cent natural, sustainable and can be safely disposed of without causing environmental damage. A reusable travel BBQ is also a good option, be sure to clean it well after each use.”
During your road trip…
- Sleep under the stars
“There are a number of National Parks in the UK where ‘wild camping’ is permitted. There is nothing better than sleeping outside to truly connect with nature, listening to bird song and seeing animals in their natural habitats – you may even encounter a herd of deer or wild horses. A few tips to keep in mind: arrive late, leave early, pack up any rubbish to take pack to you, go to the bathroom away from any water or streams, and leave no trace of your visit. Wild camping is usually only allowed with backpacks and tents, so leave your motorhome for a night and prepare to camp in the wild. Check out this guide on where to wild camp in Britain.”
- Refill water
“A simple tip is to take your own reusable bottles to fill up on-the-go, to save you stocking up on single-use plastic water bottles. Chilly’s do a great range of stylish reusable bottles in a variety of sizes. Re-fill these at petrol stations and campsites that offer free drinking water. Similarly, take a reusable coffee cup to avoid single-use coffee cups.”
- Dispose of waste correctly
“It’s illegal to discharge your waste water (toilet) on the road or in laybys. Campsites have clear Chemical Disposal Points for waste but do make use of public loos during your journey as well. Grey water from washing up or cooking can generally be poured into a hedgerow or similar, but toilet waste must never be disposed of in this way.”
- Fire lighting rules
“Not all campsites allow fires, so do check before lighting up. If you are wild camping, you must obtain the owner’s permission before starting a fire. Unless otherwise stated, fires are usually permitted on beaches in the UK below the high-water line, if there is no disturbance to local people or wildlife nearby.
“Respect the environment and use fallen twigs and branches, rather than cutting down trees, keep fires small and never leave it unattended. Keep buckets of water close by and ensure embers are fully extinguished before leaving. Never use flammable liquids, only natural items such as dry leaves, twigs and kindling.”
To rent a campervan, motorhome or caravan, visit www.camptoo.co.uk.
-Ends-
Notes to Editors:
Camptoo founder, Martijn Peeters, is available for interview or comment upon request.
For further press information, please contact:
Elsa Findlay/Jo Kendall
T: +44 (0) 20 3440 8930
E: [email protected]
About Camptoo
Launched in the Netherlands in 2014, Camptoo is a sharing economy platform that connects the owners and renters of campervans, motorhomes and touring caravans.
Since it was launched, Camptoo users have booked over 100,000 nights in vehicles rented through the site. Owners are able to generate income from their campervan when it’s not being used while renters have greater flexibility when booking their vehicle so that it best suits their needs.
There are over 2,500 vehicles to choose from across Europe and a further 400 across Australia, with more being added every week. Vehicles are properly insured to allow both owner as well as renter a carefree holiday, with Camptoo providing all the necessary paperwork, checklists and roadside assistance. For more information, visit http://www.camptoo.co.uk
