Whether you’ve got a retro V-Dub or an all-singing-all-dancing Hymer, nothing beats hitting the road in a camper van. You might be short on space, but that’s no reason not to take some home comforts along with you to make your trip even better. Here’s our pick of the 11 must-have camper van gadgets that let you enjoy every moment even more.

1) Swedish candle log

Forget about those scratchy portable BBQs that are bad for the planet. Every cool camper van needs a Swedish candle log instead. These are logs with notches down the side and a hollowed out middle. The Swedish Army developed them as a method to cook in the snow. Light a fire inside and it will burn for hours providing heat and somewhere to heat your beans. Find out how to make one here.

2) Air filled lounger

Chill and relax with no need to huff and puff with an air-filled lounger. They’re ideal for lounging at the beach or campsite. You can even fall asleep on one. Packing neatly into a 1kg bag, all you need is a little space to run and inflate it. Hold the bag open, run around to fill the chambers with air, then twist and close and you’re ready to loaf. See how easy it is here.

3) Solar portable power hub

You might be escaping the rat-race and going off-grid for a couple of days, but that doesn’t mean you want to leave your smartphone behind. This camper van gadget is a must, especially if you’ve got teenagers in tow and there’s no hook-up at your site. When it’s connected to a solar panel, the Goal Zero Lighthouse is a multi-tasking miracle. It provides light up to 400 lumens for late-night games of Scrabble and has a 1.5A USB output to deliver enough power to recharge phones and tablets.

4) Compression bags

If you don’t have enough storage in your camper van to take all the clothes you’d like, compression bags are an elegant solution. Letting you carry more stuff in less space, it also helps keep dirty or wet clothes separated. And that can reduce the chances of you heading out in the same socks you wore yesterday.

5) Gas stovetop toaster

What’s more English than toast and marmalade for breakfast? Enjoy your bread grilled to perfection when you’re away with a stovetop toaster. It neatly folds to squeeze into the smallest spaces for easy packing and opens to hold up to four slices at a time.

6) Portable electric shower

If your campervan doesn’t have a shower and you don’t want to restrict yourself to sites with facilities, a compact electric shower is what you need. Choose one that can be charged by USB (and pair with a power hub) for a refreshing jet of warm water whether you’re at the beach or festival. You can even use it for the dog or to clean your bikes too.

7) Lightweight, portable hammock

Be the coolest king of the swingers with a lightweight hammock. Neatly packing down to maximise space in the van, all you’ll need is to find two trees (or one long branch) to string it up to.

8) Wacaco Nanopresso

Travels in your camper van do not mean going without your favourite shot of morning caffeine. Small but perfectly formed, the Wacaco Nanospresso delivers an impressive 18 bars (261 psi) of pressure for delicious coffee on the go. All you need to do is add boiling water and pump by hand.

9) Park4Night App

Get recommendations on where to camp, including free sites, with the Park4Night app. There’s a free or paid-for version, and you can search to find what’s near you.

10) Manual food chopper

If you’re the sort of camper that is not satisfied with just a tin of beans and packet of crisps, add a manual food chopper to your kitchen. That way you can chop, blend and puree to your heart’s content without the need for power.

11) Camper van insurance

Not strictly a gadget, camper van insurance is none-the-less an essential for guaranteeing your road trip is the best it can be. With it, you can hit the road safe in the knowledge everything that could go wrong is covered. From roadside assistance in Europe to peace of mind expensive kit is covered against theft, the best camper van insurance lets you relax and enjoy every minute.

From festival fields to the wilderness, your campervan is the best way to get out and about exploring this summer. Enjoy a road trip in comfort with camper van gadgets that make your four wheels a real home from home.

From parking assist to automatic braking, today’s cars make driving a whole lot easier and safer. But if something goes wrong, and your vehicle is out of warranty, it means your vehicle can cost a lot to put right. That’s where car warranty insurance comes in. It gives you peace of mind that you won’t face any unexpected bills. We answer your questions about car warranty insurance so you can decide if it’s worth taking out.

First, what does car warranty insurance cover?

Different warranties will cover different aspects. They commonly include:

• Mechanical failure.
• Electrical failure.

You can also take out cover that will pay out for repairs for ordinary wear and tear.

Reading the small print

Don’t assume that your car warranty insurance will automatically cover you for everything that can go wrong. Instead, always carefully read the small print, or ask your insurance broker to go through it. That way, you can be sure that you have the level of cover you need.

Levels of car warranty insurance

Like most insurance, you can choose from different levels of car warranty insurance. The most basic policies will only cover specified mechanical failures, but these are generally cheapest. You can opt for more comprehensive cover, which will pay out for a broader range of problems. Note that these policies will typically cost more than a basic package.

Do I need car warranty insurance?

If you’re wondering if it’s worth buying car warranty insurance, consider how much it costs to fix some of the most common car problems. For example, timing chain issues can cost nearly £600 to put right on average. And if you need a new clutch, it’s around £750.

Then ask yourself:

• Could you easily afford a large, unexpected bill?
• Do you rely on your car to get to work, take the kids to school, or to see family? If you do, and you can’t afford to get your vehicle repaired right away, how would you manage?
• Have you just purchased the car second-hand? If you have (and you missed a warning sign that something might be wrong) you could face big bills if you don’t have warranty insurance.

On the flip side, there is a chance that you might not ever need to claim on your car warranty insurance. You might decide that the money you save by not taking out insurance can be put towards any future bills if needed.

Also, if your car is relatively new, it may already be under warranty. The length of the warranty depends on the manufacturer and typically varies from three to seven years. Remember, if you buy a car second-hand privately, the warranty is transferred to you. And if you’ve purchased a second-hand car from a garage, it may also automatically come with a warranty.

How much does it cost?

Several factors will affect the cost of car warranty insurance. These include:

• Firstly, the age of the car. Older cars are more likely to go wrong and so will cost more to insure.
• Next, the type of car. For example, hybrid and electric vehicles can be more costly to fix if something breaks. So these cars can cost more to cover.
• Thirdly, the number of miles you travel each year. Obviously, the higher the mileage, the more likely it is that something can break.
• Finally, the size of the engine. Fixing a turbo-charged engine is more expensive than a basic 1.2. So the bigger the engine, the more expensive the premium.

Can I buy a car insurance warranty for any car?

Many car warranty insurance products restrict the age of the car to be covered to under 12 years or under 120,000 miles. However, it may be possible to find warranty insurance for older cars or cars that have covered higher mileage.

Can I choose where the repairs are carried out?

Yes. When you purchase your car warranty insurance, you can specify if you want any repairs to be carried out by the main dealer or an independent garage. If it’s important to you that repairs are carried out by the main dealer, make sure you make this clear when you get quotes or tell your broker.

Where can I buy car warranty insurance?

If you do decide to take out car warranty insurance, you have several options.

If you buy a car second hand from a garage, they may offer to sell you a warranty. But you don’t have to take it. Instead, you can shop around a range of insurance companies that provide car warranty insurance.

Like all insurance, it’s essential to shop around if you want to save money. Contact as many different insurance companies as you can or use an independent insurance broker like Easy2Insure to do this for you. You can then compare the level of cover and the costs to find the best deal for you.

Finally, the Easy way to buy car warranty insurance

It’s quick and easy to get a free quote for car warranty insurance with Easy2Insure. As an independent broker, we’ll shop around to find you the best price on insurance you can rely on. We’ll negotiate hard and use our buying power to secure rates you won’t find anywhere else. We’ll do the job of scouring the policy schedule on your behalf. That means you can rest easy knowing you’ve got the cover you need with no nasty surprises lurking in the small print. If you do need to make a claim, we’ll also take care of everything quickly and efficiently. So, you can get your car fixed and back on the road as speedily as possible.

Call our friendly team on 0800 917 9522 or get a quote now.

This is the UK’s biggest classic car show, with the vast halls at Birmingham’s NEC filled with vehicles, stands, and entertainment. Whether you’re looking for a spare for your MGA or thinking of investing in buying a classic, you’ll find it all here every November. Find out more.

2) Goodwood Revival

Far more than a classic car show, Goodwood revival is a way of life. You’ll have the chance to see priceless classic vehicles of all ages during this two-day event that takes place each September at the Goodwood Estate near Chichester. And it’s not just the cars that are highly polished and looking smart. Visitors get into the spirit, dressing up in vintage clothing for a weekend of retro fun. Find out more.

3) Silverstone Classic

Each year in July, engines get revving at the Silverstone Classic in Northamptonshire. Like a rolling classic car show, you can watch everything from vintage Formula one cars to iconic minis charging round the track. Find out more.

4) Practical Classics Classic Car and Restoration Show

Also held at the NEC in Birmingham, this classic car show is perfect for any classic car owner who is undertaking a restoration. You will be inspired by the hundreds of cars on display, and there’s a handy trade village packed with parts. There’s also an auction if you’re thinking of buying a classic car. Find out more.

5) Race Retro

One of the first classic car shows of the year, Race Retro is considered Europe’s top historic motorsport show. Here you can watch bygone racing and rallying greats hurtle around the course and catch a glimpse of iconic celebrities from the world of motorsport. There are also plenty of iconic racing cars to admire close-up in the Motorsport Hall of Fame and an auto-jumble filled with spares and parts. It takes place in February at Stoneleigh, near Coventry. Find out more.

6) Donington Historic Festival

Another show held at a legendary circuit, watch nine decades of racing twist and turn round the track at the Donington Historic Festival at Donington Park, Leicestershire. There are lots of cars to see on and off the track at this event that takes place each May. Find out more.

7) Beaulieu

Home of a permanent collection at the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu also hosts several classic car shows throughout the year. These tend to focus on just one marque so you can pick your favourite. Shows include Simply Porsche, Simply VW, Simply Jaguar, and Simply Land Rover. Find out more.

8) Goodwood Festival of Speed

Strictly speaking, the Goodwood Festival of Speed is not just a classic car show. With trade stands and paddocks showcasing the very latest vehicles from manufacturers around the world, this is the UK’s biggest car show. But the classics get a good look in too at this motoring mecca. See the crème de la crème at the Cartier Style et Luxe concourse and watch celebrated classics tackle the hillclimb. It’s all set against the stunning backdrop of Goodwood House near Chichester. Find out more.

9) Salon Prive

Mouths will be watering at the exceptional classics that gather for the Salon Prive at Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire. It attracts some of the most outstanding vehicles in the world to its concourse, as it’s one of eight events that are eligible for the peninsula Classic Awards. Mixing classics, hypercars and high-society, it’s a little like a luxury garden party. It even features a Ladies Day sponsored by Boodles, ensuring the best frocks get a final outing of the season. Find out more.

Caring for your classic

Whether classic car shows are a great excuse to get your vintage vehicle out of the garage or you’re looking for a classic car to buy, read these guides:

• Things to know before you buy a classic car

• Advice on storing classic cars

Finally …

If you’re a classic car owner or a trip to a show has inspired you to go out and buy one, don’t forget your classic car insurance. For the best price on cover that includes agreed value and limited mileage discounts, call our friendly team at Easy2Insure on 0800 917 9522 or get a free quote.

Whether you usually drive a petrol but have switched to a diesel for the day, or you’re in a rush, it’s easy to put the wrong fuel in a vehicle accidentally. It’s estimated that it happens once less than every two minutes in the UK and costs motorists £150 million. You may be surprised to discover that nearly half of car insurance and breakdown policies won’t cover you if you do make this mistake. Luckily, misfuel insurance is available to help cover the costs. Read our quick guide to find out everything you need to know.

What is misfuelling?

Misfuelling is the name given when you put the wrong type of fuel into your vehicle.

What happens if you put diesel in a petrol car?

It’s quite hard to put diesel into a petrol vehicle. That’s because car and pump manufacturers have got together to make the hole at the top of the fuel tank of petrol cars smaller than the pump nozzle for diesel. If it does happen, the diesel will coat the spark plugs, and your vehicle could start to misfire or even fail to start at all.

What happens if you put petrol in a diesel car?

Unfortunately, the petrol pump nozzle does fit in the hole at the top of diesel fuel tanks. If you put petrol in a diesel vehicle, it can damage the engine. Depending on how far you drive with the wrong fuel, the damage can vary from requiring expensive repairs to a complete engine replacement. That’s because introducing petrol into a diesel tank reduces the lubrication, which means metal parts can rub and become damaged.

What should you do if you put the wrong fuel in your car?

Stop driving as soon as you realise your mistake. The further you drive the more damage you will do. If you realise before you start the engine, don’t turn the ignition. As soon as you start the car, the patrol will start to contaminate the engine.

You’ll need to contact a local garage or someone who can drain the tank for you or tow your car away for repairs. If you have misfuel insurance, you’ll be given a 24/7 contact number. This will mean you’ll get help quickly so you can get back on your way.

Does breakdown cover include misfuel cover?

Probably not. In most cases, breakdown cover will not include the cost of a fuel drain or for any repairs or replacement parts.

Can I claim on my main car insurance?

Don’t automatically assume that your car insurance will cover you if you misfuel. Defaqto checked over 200 car insurance policies and found that misfuelling was excluded from cover in 42% of policies.

If you’re not sure if you’re covered already, check the small print or speak to your broker. Even if it is included, bear in mind the cost of any excess you’ll need to pay and factor in the increased costs in future insurance cover as you’ll lose your no claims discount.

What about my warranty?

If you drive a new car, you won’t be covered under warranty for any repairs or replacement parts needed as a result of misfuelling.

What is misfuel insurance cover?

The average cost of fixing problems as a result of putting in the wrong fuel is £3,000. When you hold misfuel insurance, you have the peace of mind that these costs are covered. If you do put the wrong fuel in the tank, call the number you’ve been given and relax. Assuming you haven’t started the engine, someone will be on their way to drain your tank. Then  they’ll give you the right fuel so that you can get back on your way again. If you’ve started the engine, they’ll drain take your car to the nearest garage. Any caravans or trailers attached to the misfuelled car will also be taken, so you don’t need to worry about those being left at the roadside.

How much does misfuel insurance cover cost?

Misfuel insurance can be an inexpensive add-on to your car insurance or stand-alone policy. The exact figure will depend on the type of vehicle you drive but could be as low as the cost of a takeaway for two.

Do I need misfuel insurance?

If you only ever drive a petrol vehicle, you’re less likely to need to misfuel insurance as it’s harder to fill up with diesel accidentally. It’s estimated that only around 5% of misfuelling is diesel put into a petrol vehicle. However, if you drive a diesel, it’s an easy mistake to make, especially if you sometimes drive a petrol car.

Where can I buy misfuel insurance?

If your car insurance does not include misfuel insurance, ask if it can be added on. If that’s not an option, you can buy a standalone policy. Speak to our friendly team at Easy2Insure for more advice. We’re independent, so we’ll shop around on your behalf to find you misfuel insurance at the best price. Call us on 0800 917 9522 or get in touch.