Melting snow caused icicles to form along the bodywork.

So far this winter, frosts have been rare and only in recent mornings has there been a need for the ice scraper. The snow that has fallen and covered the campsite is only a few inches deep, but there is a ramp (upwards) to navigate on the out – so it will be interesting to see if the Sunday exodus of weekenders takes place or if people have to stay put. We are staying put.

The cold weather does bring other issues to those travelling in the winter. Fresh water taps are frozen for example, although we topped up the on board fresh tank the day prior. The water in the waste hog is frozen solid and so will have to stay that way for while.

The extractor outlet cover will deflect winds away from the motorhome.

I had previously observed an Autotrail motorhome with a deflector, partially covering the extractor fan outlet. Investigations revealed this part was available from Autotrail, although in the end I was able to source one from elsewhere. The cosmetic appearance of the extractor outlet cover might not suit everyone, but I don’t think this is an issue.

The design of the motorhome extractor outlet cover would also allow for an cloth or a couple of carrier bags to be pushed into the cover during really severe weather.

This one is often a puzzle for many a motorhomer – radio reception. The very design of the motorhome, often with the Luton bunk above the driving cab may well be the cause of some of the issues affecting motorhome radio reception.  Some motorhomes have no problem with radio reception, others seem to be cursed. I have to admit that my previous Compass Avantgarde and then the three former Kon-tikis (am I really on Kontiki number four?) have all been as good as gold when tuning into Radio 2. The newcomer however, seemed a different kettle of fish. Whilst local stations were perfect, reception for Ken Bruce and Co. on Radio 2 was shocking – some might call it a blessing.

The external aerial has improved the motorhome radio reception no end.

Motorhome radio reception – problem solved

The fitting of an external aerial – above – seems to have solved all my problems in respect of motorhome radio reception and for tuning into Radio 2. My investigations revealed that the aerial could be fitted to the nearside of the cab. For us Brits, that the left hand side of the cab, the opposite to the right hand drive steering wheel. I am not sure why the preferred location of the aerial is on the nearside, but anyway, there it is, fitted and working!

In respect of the fitting of the external aerial to boost motorhome radio reception then I sought the services of an expert.

There have been numerous reports in the press recently that breath test kits must be carried in vehicles in France. It seems a little unclear at the present time whether this applies to French registered vehicles or indeed all vehicles passing through the country. However, as breath test kits are small in size and light weight, I decided to purchase some, “just in case”.

Breath test kits in France - legally required for British vehicles?

The “Mission breath alcohol detector” is available as a mail order item and the pack contains three detectors. Full instructions are also supplied. This item is one of those motorhome accessories that I hope will remain unused, In the event however that I am required to undertake a breath test at the roadside, the “Mission breath alcohol detector” is supplied in a pack of three (!) and so ensures there is another breath test kit available should you be unfortunate enough to be stopped twice!

When ordering the 2012 Swift Kon-tiki 679, I did not place an order for the Dometic B2200 roof mounted airconditioning system. Instead, I had decided to wait and see how motorhome touring overseas was, without the air con system. Anyway, and as usual, I changed my mind and last week had a few modifications done to the Kon-tiki, with the Dometic B2200 system being one of them.

Dometic B2200 system can heat, cool and features built in lighting.

Heating and cooling from the Dometic B2200

The Dometic B2200 air conditioning unit is dual purpose in so far as the system can be used for cooling but can also provide a gentle heat too. The intenal fitting also has four “moonlight” down lighters that cast a gentle – (and romantic!) – glow over the interior of the motorhome. The instruction manual for the Dometic B2200 claims the unit operates at approximately 5 – 6 amperes, so this should be quite usable on many a continental campsite. The previous much loved and owned Kontiki had the same air con system and this was used on many low ampage campsites without an issue.

Within the previous motorhome, I found it better in very hot weather, to leave the Dometic B2200 running constantly on the low fan speed setting. This setting was not only quiet, but could maintain a cool temperature within the ‘camping car’

The Dometic B2200 air conditioning unit retails at about £1600.00 plus fitting but for those hoping to undertake continetal touring then the system may be a natural choice.

Decent roads maps of Italy are not the easiest of things to come by. My previous map of Italy – bought in Italy, I hasten to add – had just about fallen to pieces so the time had come to obtain a replacement. The AA Road Atlas Italy is a low cost choice but appears to do what it says on the tin

The compact AA Road Atlas Italy

The AA Road Atlas Italy is quite compact in size meaning it will easily stow in the glove box. The AA Road Atlas Italy is not quite as clear as the previously owned Michelin map but it is about 1/3 of the price – even more of a discount when purchased on Amazon!

Where can I purchase the AA Road Atlas Italy

The maps are available in shops but I found them to be a lot cheapper on Amazon

I was also able to acquire this version from a charity shopfor just 50 pence! Some may prefer this version, but it is quite bulky in comparison.

 The AA Road Atlas Italy is a must have for those tripping of to Garda and further afield.

I had arranged to take the motorhome for some warranty work, a few bits here and there. The Fiat onboard computer suggested my average speed over the last 3000 miles was 4 mph and I was also having some issues with the CD player and the radio reception. I have requested that an external aerial be fitted as “best practice”. My three previous Kontikis had excellent radio reception. I will add a photo of the new aerial when the van comes back.

I was also hoping to get the Truma boiler checked and one or two other bits and pieces.

Just my luck though, whilst on my way to the repairers – a stone chip! My second one in six months. I just hope this one is easier to resolve than the last one when Autoglass claimed I needed a coach specialist to sort me out!

I have however asked if the dealer can arrange the repair. This will hopefully save me a job at a later date.

The Best Deal Camping Card is a very similar scheme to the ACSI card, but with a couple of differences. Firstly, the Best Deal Camping Card is free of charge to obtain, and then secondly, the Best Deal Camping Card is, well, in Dutch!

The Best Deal Camping Card is provided free of charge by Kosmos Camping Wijzer. This Dutch organisation seem happy to post the book and membership card overseas and I received mine this morning. The book is compact is size and has just over 200 pages, listing 870 campsites that are included within the scheme. Some sites have very low rates, such as 12 euro per night, whilst others are more expensive at 27 euro per night, but still a discount on the sites’ advertised tariffs.

The Best Deal Camping Card is in Dutch but easy enough to understand

Each campsite listed comes with details of the site’s website, GPS co-ordinates and details of the on site facilities. There is also a calendar system detailing the dates when the Best Deal Camping Card may be used.

Where to obtain the Best Deal Camping Card

More details of the card can be found at www.campingwijzer.nl

If you are unable to add a post code as part of your address when completing the “information required” on the Camping Wizner website, you can simply send an email, in English, asking for the book and Best Deal Camping Card to be posted. Alteratively, try 12345 as the postcode.

Given that this item is free to obtain and also includes some sites that are not in the ACSI scheme then the Best Deal Camping Card is another valued addition to the glove box.

The flood water at Boroughbridge subsides....

The flood water subsided – note the Kon-tiki to the right

View from the A59 Harrogate to York road

The flood water as seen from the A59

More flood water as seen from the A59

Wind speeds in the local area was heading towards of 70 m.p.h., leading to the old saying “if the motorhome’s rocking, don’t come knocking!”

A very straight forward journey with nothing unusual to report, other than high volumes of traffic, particularly around the retails parks near M62.  I did however receive a £5 Morrisons voucher after filling up with diesel, taking advantage of the Morrisons Miles scheme.

The only other source of excitement was a flood alert at Boroughbridge! Standing by with pots and pans!

View Larger Map

Mileage today 149.