It’s that time of year again!

It is time to don your most comfy pair of shoes and head to the NEC Birmingham for the Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show where hall upon hall awaits, packed with 2018’s hottest tourers, all vying for your viewing pleasure.

In fact, there’s so much and so many new caravans to see, with stands from all the major manufacturers and dealers, that it can all get a little overwhelming.

Don’t worry! Here’s our show preview to help you make the most of your trip.

Super Sprites on show

Traditionally, it’s the October NEC show where we see a host of new vans, but two of the UK’s biggest brands have chosen the February show to share their latest products.

As we revealed last week, there’s a new name in the world of family caravans, as Swift Group released details of its new Sprite Super line-up.

These vans celebrate their launch at this week’s NEC show, so head to Swift’s stand and you will be one of the very first to see this twin-axle range.

Standing 8ft wide, there’s more space inside these new Sprites than you might expect and there are two layouts to choose from.

Both models have a parallel front lounge and a central dinette, but the Swift Sprite Super Quattro DB has rear bunk beds, whereas the Swift Sprite Super Quattro FB features a fixed bed.

VIP family accommodation

And touring as a family must be in vogue right now, because you will also get a chance to see the new Coachman VIP 570 at the NEC Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show.

This new family-size caravan was announced at the manufacturer’s 2018 season launch last summer and it will finally make an appearance this week in Hall 1 at the NEC.

It’s the first rear dinette, fixed bunks layout to appear in Coachman’s top range.

The VIP 570 has a shipping length of 7.43m and a 5.8m interior length.

With Alde heating and the Al-Ko ATC system, this new Coachman caravan has a fairly hefty MTPLM of 1645kg and a £26,350 price tag (not including the £545 delivery charge).

Something a bit different?

If you are after something different, head to the Freedom Caravans stand.

Among the models the lightweight manufacturer will have on display is a Jetstream Twin fitted with the £1000 Phoenix pack.

This gives it extra mains and USB sockets and alloy wheels, and a metallic cherry red finish that is sure to make you stand out among all the white and beige on site.

It’s also worth calling in at the Pennine Outdoor Leisure stand, where you will find the folding caravan manufacturer’s new Crusader.

This is similar to its Pathfinder, but with a small occasional table between two settees instead of wraparound seating and a larger storage cupboard.

Don’t forget the accessories!

Heading to the NEC show to top up your touring accessories? You will be spoilt for choice!

Awning manufacturer Kampa, for example, will have its full range of caravan awnings on display in Hall 1.

This year, they come with an all-new dual-pitch roof designed to help shed rainwater more efficiently, thicker air poles and 40% thicker windows.

Among the models on display will be the new Air All-Season 400, constructed with four-season fabric for all-year-round caravanning.

Get out there!

The show, which will be opened by veteran global explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes, aims to encourage all ages to spend 24 hours outdoors.

Joining him will be Anna McNuff, an adventurer who advocates the benefits of women spending more time in the outdoors.

New attractions for this running of the spring NEC show include a skating rink, while elsewhere, there will be the usual chance to improve your skills at caravan towing (bring your driving licence!).

Other celebrities making an appearance include TV chefs Rustie Lee, Dean Edwards and Chris Bavin, as well as show regular Rowland Rivron.

The Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show is at the NEC Birmingham from 20-25 February 2018. For tickets, please click here. And to find out about the on-site campsite, see here.