Three German caravan stories: from winter camping to local staycations

Andreas Jeß, 64, from Barmstedt (Pinneberg district) won the regional ADAC motorhome driving competition. He achieved the best scores in parking, maneuvering, and tricky exercises. Jeß will now compete in the national final.

The motorhome parking site in Nordkirchen (North Rhine-Westphalia) has been awarded five eco-stars, placing it among the most environmentally committed sites in Germany. The award is based on strict criteria, including permeable driving surfaces and low light, air, and noise pollution.

Volkswagen introduced the Good-Night accessory kit for the ID. Buzz electric van, turning it into a micro-camper. Priced at around €2,600, the set includes a folding bed, table, chairs, and blinds. The electric powertrain enables climate control for up to 48 hours and 230V power supply. The pack is available in Germany; in France, it may be offered as part of a special edition.

Owners of a workshop in Kalkar shipped their Dailycamper van by sea to Canada. The Atlantic Sky vessel transported the van from Hamburg to Halifax in 16 days at a cost of about €2,500. After customs clearance, the owners picked up the vehicle at the port and continued their journey in Nova Scotia.

The 'Hassberge-Chalets' project in Kirchlauter, Bavaria, comprises eight tiny holiday homes of 24 sqm each. All houses are already in place; furnishing is scheduled for next week, followed by landscaping. The village is expected to be ready by autumn. The local council also discussed a weight limit on the access road to protect the lane.

Volkswagen has launched a factory camping kit for the ID.Buzz electric van, called Good-Night Package. It includes a mattress, folding table and chairs, and window curtains. The update also adds a camping mode that maintains climate control and manages battery usage. The kit is designed for overnight stays without aftermarket modifications.