Holidays: Northern Ireland is ‘amazing for camping’ says expert

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The school holidays and peak summer months are undoubtedly the busiest time for a camping and caravan holiday. While campsites in popular locations may already be fully booked, it doesn’t mean last-minute bookers won’t be able to enjoy a camping trip before the year is out.

In fact, two camping experts were in agreement that there is still plenty of time for a great holiday, even once August draws to a close.

“We expect that July and August are going to be very busy this year,” said Ed Bassett, General Manager of Camptoo, a motorhome and camper van rental website.

However, he added that looking beyond the season could offer some great holiday opportunities.

“Camping is enjoyable at any time of the year,” continued Mr Bassett.

“Autumn is a great time to travel to avoid crowded campsites and attractions, and to avoid traffic delays that typically occur during peak times.”

Graham Hodgson, chief executive of Verdant Leisure, which offers a range of holiday parks across Scotland Northern England, recommends considering a September break.

“September usually delivers some lovely weather,” he said.

Even if the rain clouds roll in, it doesn’t have to mean curtains for a camping trip.

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“A lot of our customers enjoy breaks well into Autumn, with local indoor tourist attractions opening there are lots of things to do even on rainy days,” he said.

Holidaymakers who are eyeing a holiday later in the year should think about what it is they are hoping to get from a break before booking.

“It really depends what type of holiday you are after,” explained Mr Hodgson.

“Around our parks, we have some stunning walking trails as well as iconic tourist attractions – both indoor and outdoor.

“I think researching the local region is really important to understand what there is to do if the weather isn’t brilliant.”

Indeed, weather can vary rapidly from coast to coast in the UK, and a sudden downpour can emerge from seemingly nowhere.

It is hard, even, to list an average temperature for the entire UK in September.

In London, for example, the September average high sits at 19.

Meanwhile, in Edinburgh, this figure drops to 16.

As a result, opting for a location that offers both indoor and outdoor activities is best for autumn holidays, recommend the experts.

Luckily, according to Mr Bassett, a holiday later in the year provides far more options.

“Campervan and motorhome availability on Camptoo is higher in the autumn than summer, and prices tend to be lower during this season, too,” he said.

“We fully expect the traditional camping season to extend into autumn as a result of pent-up demand.”

While there is still availability now, Mr Bassett says this might not last long – particularly given the popularity of staycations this year.

“Don’t delay booking,” he warned.

“Staycations will continue to be very popular throughout 2021, so to avoid disappointment, we suggest booking as soon as possible.

“Remember to check any travel rules for where you are intending to travel to and try to only book with companies that have a flexible booking policy so that if your plans or any rules change, your trip can be changed to suit.”

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