Like most of the world we have been restricted to home due to COVID-19. Our “lockdown” started on 18th March when we were told that our friends had symptoms so we had to quarantine. Shortly afterwards the Scottish government mandated a restriction on movement that has only recently started to ease. So the van has sat on the driveway untouched since its service on 11th March apart from the fortnightly engine start and rotation of the wheels to try and ensure we kept it in working order and avoided flat spots on the tyres.
Although still cautious about leaving our local area, we are going to attempt a trip this coming weekend. If you have a self contained camping van and if you can find a campsite willing to have you visit then you are allowed to use the van. Most campsites are not opening yet as it is not worth them doing so until they are allowed to open the shared facilities ( toilet & shower blocks ) but one of our favourite spots in Aviemore is taking bookings for people who don’t need to use the facilities so we have booked. “wild camping” is still not allowed and although use of a motorhome is technically not wild camping, we don’t feel it appropriate to stay anywhere outside of a legitimately open campsite.
So today we started getting ready. Who thought it would be so exciting to flush the water system and re-stock the van with essential supplies! We only bought the van in November and have only used it in very cold conditions so we have had to re-think the bedding and remove the extra warm clothing, shoes and slippers that we leave in the van. It is Scotland though so hopefully we haven’t been too optimistic.
We have antibacterial/virus wipes and face-masks and plan to keep to ourselves. We know the risk if contagion is still high and we know that many people don’t want visitors. We will be safe. It will just be lovely to have some different scenery and we know the trail network so well in that area we can avoid the areas that most people frequent.
Next post on Friday night. Hopefully the start of many more. Watch this space.
Wee Van Tour 