We were considering changing this year (current van 2006 Coachman Pastiche 460/2). Indications are that the new vans wiil be unable to meet our requirements, based on design practicality, and our existing Coachman is better designed than the new (even coachman) caravans on that score.
Whilst improvements may have been made in some features, too many good ideas have been dropped. And I don't know what possessed the makers to go for the Alde wet system; another feature capable of failure (and damage if coolant leaks - it must have antifreeze solution in it).
Our Coachman is a good spec van, yet it is easy to remedy any appliance failures whilst on tour; particularly essential if away in places like France.
The all-singing-and-dancing vans may be attractive in the showroom, but the real winners are the service workshops and mobile fitters. Caravanning is a nomadic pastime, and DIY on-the-hoof repairs must be possible for maximum enjoyment of a holiday break. Who wants to spend half of a week's break chasing after parts, and possibly a fitter, because appliances have been designed out of reach of competent DIYers?
Never get any free tickets. Still haven't really decided whether to go or not. Thought I'd first wait and see what folk say after going today. Might go tomorrow, but it depends what time the sky man comes.
god im knackered and if i see another one of them boxes on wheels i am going to flip!!
word of advice for those of you going it is so flipping hot in the place I thought I was going to pass out so wear something light ..
Some real nice stuff on offer and some good prices on vans
I especially liked a Sprite something or other which was new for the show and very reasonably priced
some amazing bits of kit including the airstreams which were lush
lots of tat (sorry i dont do clutter)
all in all a good day we didnt look at everything as there was loads of motor homes that we whipped by
and ended up spending about £30 so very well done to me I reckon as this was including lunch
We can't wait to go, probably in the next day or 2. Looking forward to seeing the hugely expensive monopod caravan, love how they've used the bodyshell from the old voyager vector and painted it a different colour, very interesting thing! Just heard about the new Sprite Lites (good for the waistline lol) and curious to see just how much equipment they've left out, there's no shower!!! Curious about the new Concordia from Stealth as they've gone more mainstream! Want to see if the new Elddis vans look better in the flesh because from photos the fronts look really boring but photos can be misleading so want to see for myself. Just want a great day out with the missus and have a good nosey!
We're just new to caravanning this year and were so excited about the show - we even travelled down on the sleeper on Monday night, went to the show yesterday and then travelled home again last night on the sleeper - totally exhausted today but well worth it.
We wanted to see the difference in the Sprite Musketeer EB 2012 as we had just bought ours this year and so glad we did buy this year as they have now made it a 4 berth and the internal finishings were not to our taste neither was the layout. The Sprite Lites were a massive surprise as hadn't heard anything through the 'grapevine' about these before we went. Very lightweight, didnt notice there wasnt a shower but did notice there was no oven or grill!! I guess it just depends what suits each individual.
We did see Patrick Duffy from afar. It is very hot inside the halls so definate t-shirt & take plenty to drink.
We had a great time and am sure all of you that go will do aswell - enjoy!!
Not going this year. Last time was so crowded and hectic, we had to give up without seeing many of the stands. Also, as far as choice went, we felt that motorhomes were given priority to caravans, so were a bit disappointed. Avoiding the hassle this time; will be visiting various dealerships, when they get the new models in, and view in leisurely comfort. Might also get a better appraisal of quality than looking at show-prepared vans.
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: off to the NEC
