The Practical Caravan team is back with a brand new TV show on The Caravan Channel, and this episode kicks off with our Hymer Nova GL 541 review. Our Test Editor Mike Le Caplain is here to guide you round this, the smallest van Hymer currently sells in the UK. As you might expect from this brand, build quality is high inside and out, this clear from the moment you step aboard and enter the main lounge, which is a large, sociable space. All UK vans get a dual fuel cooker, plus there’s a microwave and a fridge with a removable freezer box in the kitchen. And make sure you tune in to find out more about the Hymer Nova GL 541’s clever, well lit washroom with its underfloor heating and the large fixed twin single beds.

There are so many ways to watch our TV show, there’s no excuse to miss out! You’ll find The Caravan Channel on Freesat 402 and Sky 192 (look for Showcase), or visit the Information TV website and watch live online – full broadcast times are listed at the foot of this page.

When you tune in to this episode, you’ll also enjoy David Motton’s latest tow car test. He’s behind the wheel of the new Volkswagen Passat Estate, powered by a 148bhp/251lb ft torque 2.0-litre diesel engine, which in this trim has a 1541kg kerbweight, giving an 85% match figure of 1310kg. However, despite being lighter than its predecessor, Motty’s impressed to find this new VW Passat is just as stable when towing, even when pushed during our wet and windy test. This might be due in part to the fact that every model has trailer stabilisation, but this cannot detract from what tow car ability this VW has. It’s economical, too. There’s also good space for front and rear seat occupants in the comfortable, well finished cabin, and class-leading luggage space. Watch our show on The Caravan Channel and see our full VW Passat review.

Are you new to caravanning and does the idea of towing a big van scare you? Then tune in to our TV show as John Wickersham takes a look at a Trigano Silver 310 that is less than 1.8m wide. It’s also only 1.95m high, meaning it will fit in an ordinary domestic garage. Does this sound like your cup of tea? Don’t miss us on The Caravan Channel, on Sky 192, on Freesat 402 and online at the times listed below, and get inside this innovative van.

Next we visit France. Join Practical Caravan’s Bryony Symes on tour in the Loire-Atlantique region. She’s pitched at Camping la Pindière and from there takes in the area’s gorgeous views, explores Nantes and visits Les Machines de l’île, a fascinating attraction you’ll not want to miss on your caravan holidays.

Then it’s time for some technical advice from John Wickersham – and this time he’s talking noseweight. He explains why this is so important for safe and secure caravanning, as well as helping you do the sums and showing you how to check the noseweight of your tourer. It’s essential viewing for all caravanners.

So make sure you don’t miss our show! It will be shown 10 times over two weeks between Monday 11 May and Sunday 24 May 2015, at these times and on these days:

  • Monday at 8pm
  • Wednesday at 5pm
  • Thursday at 5.30am
  • Saturday at 10.30am
  • Sunday at 10.30am

Remember, we’re on Sky 192 and Freesat 402 (look for Showcase), or head to the Information TV website where you can watch live online.