Head of Wanderlust at Camptoo shares complete guide to planning the perfect autumn road trip.
Recent booking data from caravan and campervan rental company, Camptoo, has shown that 65% of couples plan to enjoy a staycation this autumn (1). It’s easy to see why ‘shoulder season’ has become so popular with couples – a chance to enjoy the last of the warm weather, fewer crowds and less traffic, no school holiday rush, and better deals to be had on accommodation.
Ed Bassett, Head of Wanderlust at Camptoo, says: “Traditionally, the end of summer is shoulder season for the UK tourism industry, usually accompanied by a downturn in bookings, so it’s great to see that savvy couples are taking advantage of the many benefits an autumn staycation can offer.
“Travelling in peak summer season means increased competition for accommodation and campsite spots, and prices are higher as a result. By comparison, autumn travel offers more value for money, better deals and often more variety on accommodation.
“Whilst social distancing is still a must, planning trips will inevitably be easier now peak season has ended and holiday destinations are less crowded. A trip with Camptoo offers the freedom to travel at your own pace and move between locations easily, which is ideal if you want to visit more than one area of the UK.”
Read on for Ed’s tips for planning the perfect autumn road-trip.
Have a plan
We’re living in unprecedented times so forward planning is key. Many pubs, restaurants and attractions will still require booking in advance to ensure social distancing is adhered to. There are also different guidelines in place across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, so it’s important to check local guidelines before you travel.
We suggest booking your campervan and campsite accommodation as far ahead as possible – this year we’re seeing travellers leave this to the very last minute, with 70% of our customers booking just 1-3 weeks in advance. However, the further in advance you book, the more likely you are to find the best quality and lowest cost campervans and motorhomes on our website (leaving you more money for the fun stuff!)
Pack the essentials
Layers are essential always of the year in the UK thanks to the ever-changing weather conditions! This year you may find it harder to get hold of any items you forget to take with you so make sure to pack sensibly – trainers or walking boots for exploring, a warm jumper and a waterproof jacket in case the weather turns. It’s also a good idea to have sunblock and sunglasses on hand all year round, even out of season. Bottles of water and non-perishable snacks are also essential.
We also never go without car chargers for devices and spare battery packs, just in case. And whilst many retailers prefer card payments currently, it’s never a bad idea to have a small amount of cash on you for emergencies.
Parking vs campsite accommodation
Check out the Camping & Caravanning Club website for campsites close to where you’re intending to travel. Each campsite includes details on what’s on offer, from walks nearby, to attractions. Also be sure to check if your campsite is kid and pet friendly before booking, to avoid any unexpected surprises.
Always adhere to campsite rules, particularly when it comes to lighting campfires, any designated ‘quiet times’ and waste disposal. At times like this, it’s also worth double checking that the campsite is open just before you plan to travel.
If you choose not to book campsite accommodation, it’s important that you only park up in designated parking spaces. Avoid parking on lay-bys or at the roadside and never park on double yellow or red lines. Parking on private land is also not permissible. Check out the useful app Park4night which details 600,000 locations with safe overnight parking options.
Choose your destination
Now for the fun part! The UK has plenty of brilliant staycation destinations, and many that are great for travelling couples. Our suggestions include:
- Coastal fun in Cornwall
Charming towns, pebbled coves and some of the best fish and chips in the land – all the markings of a nostalgia filled Great British staycation with a touch of romance. One of our favourite local restaurants is The Dining Room, which is great for a romantic fine-dining experience. - Discover Pembrokeshire
The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park in Wales is Britain’s only coastal National Park and there’s never been a better time to explore the towering cliffs, sandy beaches and rugged landscape. If you’re an active couple and fan of hikes, this is the spot for you. - Delicious Devon
The only county boasting two coastlines, head to Devon to enjoy beautiful scenery, secret coves and fantastic hiking. If you’re a bit of a foodie, don’t forget to fuel up with local Devon cheeses and enjoy a traditional Cream Tea – we’ll leave you to decide whether the jam goes on first or not… - NC500 Scotland
From the breathtaking expanse of Strathy Beach to the splendor of Whaligoe Steps, this is the ultimate road trip around the North of Scotland. We’d even go as far as saying that this could be the ideal picturesque place to drop a knee…
So, where are you heading with your loved one this autumn?
To find out more and plan your road trip, visit www.camptoo.co.uk.
-Ends-
Notes to Editors:
- (1) 65% of 5,000 Camptoo bookings. Data correct as of 3 September 2020
- Camptoo’s Head of Wanderlust and UK Country Manager, Ed Bassett, is available for interview or comment upon request.
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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. The company was recently ranked the #1 fastest-growing travel company in Europe by Financial Times (FT1000, 2020).
Since it was launched, Camptoo users have booked over 300,000 nights in vehicles rented through the site. Owners can 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 700 vehicles listed in the UK, with over 3,500 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 www.camptoo.co.uk
