Has Your Motorhome Insurance Company changed the small print so you are not covered for theft?
Carlock Tracker
After watching the video below I rang my insurance company to find out if a tracker was required to ensure my motorhome was fully covered for theft. The reply was “yes, did you not read the policy terms and conditions?”
This is a clear misrepresentation of the policy at the time of purchase and I will be taking this further.
It just so happens that I fitted a Carlock Tracker to my motorhome about a month ago, but that does not release my insurance company from the responsibility to inform policyholders that are either renewing or taking out an insurance policy, that a tracker is required to ensure cover for theft.
So the advice is if your motorhome, camper, or caravan is not fitted with a tracker get one! Then call your insurance company and check their honesty before informing them that you have one fitted.
Carlock Tracker
This tracker is extremely easy to fit and you can put it anywhere within reach of a 12v supply. Setting up requires an App (on IOS and Android) and the registration number that came with the tracker. There is a monthly charge of around £6.. TOP TIP
I have fitted and hidden a Carlock Tracker in my motorhome but I also fitted an OBD tracker on the OBD port under the dash. This is easily unplugged and removed. Leaving the said thief thinking that the tracker has been removed.
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Ecoflow Delta 2 portable power station promises long life and flexibility
Portable power generators aren’t only helpful for campers in this age of skyrocketing energy prices; they may also give typical families a source of affordable, dependable electricity. The Ecoflow Delta 2 replaces the organization’s earlier Delta product and promises a longer lifespan as well as the capacity to run the majority of home appliances.
The standard product comes with a 1024Wh battery, or slightly over a kWh, which is equivalent to 16 full charges of a standard laptop, 8 hours of TV, or 31 hours of wireless router use. With a Delta 2 Extra Battery or a Delta 2 Max Extra Battery, power may be increased to 2kWh or 3kWh. The latter would provide around one-third of the daily power consumption average for a UK household.
Powers most household appliances
The Delta 2 has four conventional plug outlets and can support devices up to 1800W with a boost capability of 2200W, but the smaller EcoFlow River Pro can only support devices up to 1200W. That will allow you to directly run 90% of your home’s appliances off of a battery. In addition, USB ports are available for charging devices like cell phones.
Although campers use this type of device most frequently, homes trying to reduce their power expenses may also find the large capacity of the Delta 2 to be helpful. While power is less expensive for those on split tariffs, the Delta 2 may also be charged for free with optional solar panels.
The Delta 2 can be charged to 80% of its capacity on mains power in approximately 50 minutes and to 100% in 80 minutes. The battery can be fully charged in three to six hours using a 400W solar panel.
The Delta 2 may also function as an EPS system, automatically switching to battery power in the absence of mains power (or solar).
Long-lasting
The Delta 2 can charge for up to ten years using 3000 charge cycles using LFP batteries, which are identical to those found in Tesla automobiles. Comparatively, Li-ION base batteries have a lifespan of about 500 cycles.
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Goal Zero Yeti 200X, A handy portable power source for your home or car
When traveling or needing to make sure your phone’s battery lasts through a concert, portable battery packs are useful. However, the majority of battery packs won’t last long enough to be used as an emergency power source or for extended weekends away from an outlet, like a camping trip.
Power stations are more suited to handle those circumstances where mains power is not readily available. The Goal Zero Yeti 200X, which, as its name suggests, has a battery capacity close to 200Wh—187Wh to be exact. In its small size factor, it has six distinct ports.
The 200X is 7.9 x 5.1 x 5.1 inches and weighs five pounds. The station has a handle on top that makes carrying it simple. The housing’s top and bottom are composed of plastic, while its middle is covered with a metal shell.
Yeti 200x Goal Zero
Yeti 200X Power Bank
To charge the station, an external solar panel may be connected to an 8mm connection on the rear. The portable Yeti 200X is lightweight and has a grip on top.
The front of the 200X divides its six ports into three areas from left to right: a conventional power outlet; a 12V vehicle charger connector; a 6mm barrel plug; a USB-A port; two USB-C ports; and another USB-A port. A power button is located above each of those divisions. To wake the station and turn on its display, which will show you how much energy is still left, press the corresponding power button once. To make the button’s associated port(s) usable, press it once more.
Different output levels can be found on USB ports. The 5V/2.4A capacity of conventional USB connectors is available. While the other USB-C port can output up to 60W and charge the power station, the first one can take up to 18W of electricity. The 220V outlet has a surge level of 200W and can support devices up to 120W. Both the main outlet and the 60W USB-C connector provide more than enough power to quickly charge a phone or a laptop.
An 8mm barrel plug for charging the station with the supplied power source or a solar panel is located on the rear of the 200X. In order to charge the station using the 12V socket in your car, you may additionally purchase a 12V adaptor from Yeti for around £20.00
A total of 159.644Wh of output can be achieved while testing from 100 percent till it shut down. The efficiency of the 200X is 85.37 percent as a result of its output, which is just a little less than the 86.56 percent average.
At the end of each rundown test, I always press the power button on whatever battery pack or power station I’m testing to ensure it’s completely empty. With the Yeti 200X, it always stopped charging with three or four percent of a charge left.
If you intend to keep the station on a shelf, Goal Zero suggests charging it every three months.
The Yeti 200X is not inexpensive. However, it’s an investment in the security of having reliable access to electricity, whether at home or in your car. It costs the same as the Anker Powerhouse 200, but it is more effective and includes a few more ports.
The Yeti 200X is a reasonable option if you’re searching for a power station that isn’t too big and manages its capacity properly.
PowerOak EB150, 1500Wh Portable Power Station
PowerOak Portable Power Station 1500Watt Power Supply Solar Generator
If the station will be kept on a shelf, Goal Zero advises charging it every three months.
It costs a lot to buy a Yeti 200X. But whether you use it at home or in your car, it’s an investment in the security of having access to a fair quantity of electricity. The Anker Powerhouse 200 is comparable in price, however, this model is more effective and offers a few more ports.
The Yeti 200X is a good option if you’re searching for a power station that isn’t too big and manages its capacity properly.
Options are also available for the PowerOak Portable Power Station at 400Wh, 500Wh, and 2400Wh.
PowerOak EB150, 1500Wh Specification
Battery type: Lithium Battery
Battery capacity: 1500Wh
Lifespan: 2500 and above cycle life, Charge after 3 months
Dimensions 37.1 by 16.5 by 36.6 centimeters
Design: Designed with a display screen and with LED indicator lamps. Comes with a cigarette lighter port and cooling fans.
Solar: 500W
Weight: 37.9 pounds
Inputs and outputs included: 2x230V pure sine wave AC outlets, 4 by 5V/3A USB, USB-C (45W), and 12V/9A for a carport.
Panels Included/ What’s in the product kit? AC wall charger, a solar charging cable, user manual
Devices Compatible With PowerOak EB150, 1500Wh Portable Power Station
Numerous gadgets, some of which require a lot of power, are compatible with the PowerOak EB150, 1500Wh. The Notebook, an LED light, a CPAP machine, a tiny fridge, a TV, a laptop, a clothes dryer, and a blender are some examples of compatible gadgets. Others include a washer, a projector, a coffee machine, and a drone.
Advantages/Reasons to run it.
The Unit works best when numerous potentially energy-intensive gadgets need to be powered. eight or more charging ports.
Fast charging for its high capacity
Twin SP200 solar panels at 200W may be fully charged in 5-5.5 hours or 7-8 hours using a power outlet.
suitable for people who want to be off the grid for a long time or who want to camp for a longer time. There will be no worries about your battery dying.
After extended usage, a clever cooling system will keep the power plant in perfect shape; failures won’t be a problem.
Disadvantages/Reasons to avoid it.
It might not be the most portable option. Some users might find it difficult to transport for a weekend excursion due to its weight.
It is not the least expensive choice available because it costs more because of its power output.
Not the best choice when looking for tiny gadget power alternatives. You must seek less expensive and more powerful options.
What is the PowerOak EB150, 1500Wh Is Perfect For?
The finest supplementary power supply to operate medium- to power-intensive devices is the PowerOak EB150, 1500Wh. It may be at work, at home, or simply when thinking about spending many days at a campground. The power plant will also be helpful while going off the grid. PowerOak EB150, 1500Wh Summary and Verdict
The PowerOak EB150, 1500Wh is suitable for a range of power requirements. Devices that require a lot of power can use its 1000W. You won’t have to be concerned about crowding the power plant or having to shut down the machinery for capacity reasons.
Even if the weight might be a touch too much for a weekend trip, it is still reasonably portable for a camping trip. In fact, you would almost consider it a portable gadget for use in situations requiring intense concentration but not a constant movement. The power plant comes highly recommended for these requirements and will ensure value for money.
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Scottish Castles List Map
Touring Scottish Castles on the NC500 Route
The North Coast 500 is Scotland’s ultimate road trip route, passing by castles, wild animals, and other natural treasures. The route is not set in stone so you can carve your own route and take in other Scottish coastal villages and castles, and there is plenty of them!
Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, is the starting and ending point of the 516-mile route. Inverness is renowned for both its historical and cultural attractions as well as for its vibrant shopping, eating, and entertainment scene. Leaving Inverness, you head westward through a lovely region where, in the fall, leaping salmon may be seen on the rivers.
Next, on the North Coast 500, you’ll travel to one of the UK’s steepest roads, climbing up the Balach Na Ba to Applecross, a remote peninsula in Wester Ross.
Out of this world stunning, views of Skye and Raasay, it has a rich history as one of Scotland’s first settlements and is home to an important archaeological site. When you’re ready to leave Applecross’ seascapes, immaculate beaches, and “edge of the world” vibe, it’s time to go north via the mountain roads of the Torridon district to return to the coast at Gairloch. You may have a picnic on the sandy beaches or go whale watching, deep sea fishing, or snorkeling on a boat tour here.
The Castles of Scotland
After arriving at Ullapool, you can explore the area by sea kayak or go on a trip to view the wild horses, eagles, seals, and dolphins. Ullapool is a great location to attempt fly fishing or just take in lunch by the seaside for a more leisurely excursion (Check out the Fish & Chip Restaurant near the ferry terminal!!).
If time permits, why not get a ferry across The Minch from Ullapool to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides? The Outer Hebrides are not on the NC500 but the island communities provide excellent produce and the landscape will challenge the best of photographers. It is worth the 3-hour ferry trip for a few days exploring these unbelievable islands.
You’ll reach the county of Caithness after traveling along the north coast in your motorhome or campervan and take in the breathtaking scenery. This outdoor playground offers pristine beaches, castles straight out of Game of Thrones, mysterious brochs, and hill-climbing, among other things. There is world-class surfing available here over the clear waves, which may be followed by a hearty lunch of local cuisine.
One of the more amazing sights in Caithness, along with Orca and Minke whales, braying stags, and Highland cattle, is the Northern Lights, which may be viewed in the winter. The Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights), make for an amazing experience and a true bucket list item. John o’ Groats, which is located at the highest top of the British mainland and provides beachcombing as well as regional foods.
The road now follows the shoreline back to Inverness, where you may relax and think back on all the amazing experiences you had on the North Coast 500.
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NC500 Pocket Map Book
Calmac Ferries
