2021 and the year ahead

After a year in which we’ve all faced challenges – not least to our leisure time, with travel restrictions affecting holiday plans – it’s time to look forward to what will hopefully be a happier 12 months.

As we prepare to welcome in what we hope will be a brighter 2021, we asked our outdoor leisure editors, working across our portfolio of motorhome, campervan and camping magazines, what they were looking forward to in the New Year.

Here's what the team had to say...

Peter, Editor of What Motorhome and Road Test Editor of MMM

Anticipating the arrival of Auto-Trail’s Grande Frontier

“All the big European brands, except Hobby, have an A-class offering, with prices ranging from under £60k to, well, how much do you want to spend? So, it’s disappointing that if you want to own this type of motorhome (and who wouldn’t for serious long-term touring?) you can’t buy British. Or should I say ‘couldn’t’, because Auto-Trail’s new Grande Frontier is here. Almost.

It’s been almost 15 years since Auto-Trail’s last A-class and two decades since I last tested an A-class (Swift Bel-Air) from a mainstream British brand. I’m hoping that when I finally get my hands on the new GF it’ll be a highlight of 2021.”

Geneve, Editor of Campervan

Dreaming of campervan trips across Europe

“It’s fair to say that 2020 has been an unusual year, and one that we won’t be sad to say goodbye to, but it’s had its highlights, too.

For me, after having owned a classic campervan for 12 years, treating myself to a brand-spanking-new VW T6 based Hillside Birchover Classic was a massive highlight and I couldn’t wait to get out in it. I’d planned a two-week maiden voyage to the Alps in spring, taking in seven countries and covering 3,000 miles!

Of course, this trip and others couldn’t go ahead, but event organisers and campsite owners have done a fantastic job of offering vouchers so that we can all reschedule our plans. I’ll spend Christmas sitting by the fire with my tablet, planning some trips for 2021…

I absolutely adore the snow, so I’d love to be able to visit the mountains this winter – perhaps the Lake District or the Cairngorms. Spring is my favourite season and really hope I can rebook my Alpine odyssey… Wine sampling in France, cheese in Switzerland, proper pizza and ice-cream in Italy, good beer in Germany, and a music festival in Austria!

Where will 2021 take you?” 

Rachel, Deputy Editor of MMM

Exploring the best of the UK

“2021 brings us Brexit. There’s no denying this may have a big impact on us motorhomers, especially for those who like to explore abroad. As we write this, everything is still up in the air, but I’m looking forward to be able to give readers advice and have one answer, rather than having to supply ‘deal’ and ‘no deal’ advice with a lot of ifs, buts and maybes…

There’s no doubting that 2021 might be the year we all explore more of our fair isle and it’s pleasing to see several councils and attractions are looking to develop stopovers to cater for the growing numbers of motorhomers touring the UK. We’ll have to see how many come to fruition, but it’s exciting times ahead.”

Iain, Editor of Camping

Awaiting the first ever National Camping Show

“More than anything, I’m keeping my fingers crossed that we will be back to something close to normality in 2021. I’m desperately looking forward to being able to pack my tent and travel around the UK again, visiting as many of the country’s wonderful campsites as I can.

“I’m also eagerly anticipating the first ever National Camping Show, which is due to take place at the Stoneleigh Showground in March. This will be the first chance for the public to see – and buy – the new 2021 tent models and camping equipment, with big name brands like Outwell, Vango and Outdoor Revolution among those launching their ranges.

“And don’t worry if you can’t make it along to the event – March will also see Camping magazine publish the Essential Guide to 2021 Camping, which will feature details of all the new tents being launched by the major manufacturers this year. Look out for it, because there are lots of exciting new products on their way!”