Festival Camping in an RV: The Essentials Nobody Tells You

We check out the latest version of Petzls SWIFT RL headtorch with Reactive Lighting technologyReviewSpecsGalleryRetailersPetzl never stand still when it comes to their headtorch range, and while models such as the NAO, SWIFT, ACTIK and TIKKINAhave been in the range for a long time, the periodic updates that take place mean that each iteration is lighter and more powerful than the previous one, plus in the case of this latest SWIFT RL theres also one or two new tricks up its sleeve.There are three models in the current Petzl range that bear the SWIFT name, however while the SWIFT RL and SWIFT RL CLASSIC are closely related, the SWIFT LT is quite a different kettle of fish, being much lighter (43g) and less powerful (380 lumens) than the RL versions, and not offering Reactive Lighting either. The difference between the RL and RL Classic is merely the headband; the CLASSIC comes with a more conventional stretchy band while the RL comes with a stretchy cord that shaves a couple of grams off and is operated by moving the two rubbery toggles back and forth. Its worth noting that both torchs straps are interchangeable, so you can purchase and swap over to the other kind if you wish (SWIFT CLASSIC headband costs 9.80, SWIFT RL costs 11).SWIFT RLs headband can be replaced or swapped out for the Classic headbandWhats new?We last reviewed the SWIFT RL the original model back in 2019, and you can read that review HERE. There was also a minor-ish update in 2024 that upped the max power from 900 to 1100 lumens, swapped out the micro-USB charging port for a USB-C and simplified the locking mechanism, however the general look and functionality remained the same. This new version, however, looks considerably different, with a futuristic-looking array of bulbs/lenses in the style that was first introduced on the IKO, and now can also be found on the latest NAO RL, and an arrangement where the removeable battery sits next to the bulb unit with an airgap/heatsink in between, with both parts moving together in the cradle. Its a clever design that means you can just swivel the head unit within the cradle and detach the battery for charging (and swap for another if you have a spare), though unlike the CORE system theres no provision for using standard batteries.There are plenty of other positive changes under the bonnet too; weight has been reduced to 92g from 100g, and the max power on the latest version is now up at 1200 lumens, though despite this charging time remains at 5 hours. One totally new feature is the new BOOST feature which is exclusive to the SWIFT RL (for now), and is the first time Petzl have included this type of feature on a torch. This, as its name suggests, gives you a brief burst of max power before returning to the previous setting (this feature can be switched off if not required).All modes are controlled via one buttonOperationOnce youve (fully) charged the SWIFT RLs battery for the first time, and adjusted the strap to your liking, its time to light up and it couldnt be simpler. Theres just one button to control all the torchs functions, and by default it cycles through the white light modes in non-RL mode when you first switch on Max Burn Time, Standard and Max Power while to switch to Reactive Lighting mode, you just hold the button for 2 seconds (same again to switch back to non-RL mode). The use of the word standard in the user manual is slightly confusing, as it refers both to the middle lighting setting (in terms of power/battery life) plus the non-RL lighting mode using a different term (e.g. Regular) for one or tother would tidy things up a little I reckon.To go into red lighting mode, just hold the button for 4 seconds (and another 2 for red strobe), and to get the 6-second burst of max power using the Boost function, just double-tap on the right side of the torch. Finally, to lock the torch, hold the button for 6 seconds, and to unlock again you can either hold the button for 4 seconds or tap it 4 times.It sounds like a lot of button pushing on paper, but to be honest, you very quickly get used to the SWIFT RLs operation, and accessing the various modes and settings becomes second nature before very long.The SWIFT RLs bulb/lens array, a style first seen on the IKOIn useAs already mentioned, the latest SWIFT RL increases the max power from its predecessor to 1200 lumens, and gives a maximum distance of 168. This is quite a step up from the next most powerful torches in the Petzl range, the ACTIK CORE and ARIA, which both have a max power of 625 lumens (giving a max distance of 115), and not far off the performance of the range-topping NAO RL, which has a max power of 1500 lumens, and max distance of 200m. In short, its pretty damn powerful!The new BOOST function is a welcome feature, but its worth noting that this is only available in Standard mode (where the max power is normally 800 lumens), giving you a 6-second burst of 1200 lumens which is the standard high setting in RL mode. We generally left the torch in Reactive Lighting mode during testing, but there are times when you might prefer to be in Standard mode such as in rain or mist where the RL may be a bit too responsive to the conditions.The RL headband is great for wearing directly on your head or on top of a beanie, however we found it a bit slippy when used with a helmet so climbers/mountaineers may want to consider buying the Classic version, or buying the Classic headband separately as this will grip better on the helmet. But generally we really liked the headband, and being able to swap these over and also just take off to be washed once in a while is really handy.VerdictAlthough it bears the same name as its predecessor, the 2026 SWIFT RL is a brand new torch rather than merely an update. However, its basic concept remains the same a powerful-yet-light, single-unit (no separate battery pack) headtorch with Reactive Lighting that is ideal for running and climbing while also being suitable though possibly over-speced for walking too (though admittedly, no-ones ever going to complain about having too much power!).We really liked its new, more techie look, its simple, one-button operation, and all the little details such as the 5-segment battery level indicator, the carry bag that doubles as a tent lantern, and the removable/washable headband. For single-day missions, the SWIFT RL is the business.What its not quite as suitable for perhaps is multi-day backpacking, trekking or mountaineering trips, the main reason being its battery. Unlike Petzls CORE headtorches, you cant use normal batteries with the SWIFT RL, and the replacement/spare batteries (R2250) cost about twice what a spare CORE battery costs (58 compared to 29). Of course, if youre not constrained financially and have a decent recharging capability then you could take several SWIFT RL batteries with you on a trip, however we cant help thinking that a lower-powered CORE-based torch such as the ACTIK CORE would be a better bet for these kind of outings.For what it is intended for though, the SWIFT RL is a superb headtorch that improves on its predecessor in numerous ways. Highly recommended!More info at: www.petzl.comSPECSBrightness: 1200 lumens (ANSI FL 1 STANDARD)Weight: 92 gTechnology: REACTIVE LIGHTING or STANDARD LIGHTINGBeam pattern: MixedEnergy: Lithium-ion 2250 mAh battery (3.85 V / 8.47 Wh), rechargeable via USB-CCharging time: 5 hWatertightness: IPX4 (weather resistant)Certification(s): CEFEATURESUltra-powerful and intelligent headlamp:Excellent weight-to-power ratio: 1200 lumens and 92 g1200 lumens allowing you to see up to 168 meters awayChoose from two lighting modes: REACTIVE LIGHTING or STANDARD LIGHTINGLonger burn time, greater visual comfort, and less manual operation with REACTIVE LIGHTING mode, which uses an ambient light sensor to automatically adjust brightness and beam pattern, optimizing battery usageDesigned to power through long activities with a minimum 7-hour burn time at medium brightness in REACTIVE LIGHTING mode6-second BOOST mode activates with a quick double tap on the side of the lamp to help you navigate the terrain on your routeUltra-thin, comfortable, and modular headband:Split construction headband (Petzl patent) is easy to adjust and provides optimal support when youre running or skiingComfort foam can be removed to decrease weight and increase air flow depending on your needsHeadband with reflective cord helps you remain visible, even in low lightMade entirely with recycled materials and can be removed, washed, and replacedDesigned for dynamic outdoor activities:Simple to use:Single button controls the ON/OFF, lighting modes, brightness, and locking functionsThe SHELL LT ultra-light storage pouch can be used to turn it into a lanternLOCK function prevents the lamp from turning on during transit or storageR2250 battery is rechargeable via USB-C (charging cable not included) and has a battery charge indicatorFive-level gauge for precise monitoring of the battery charge levelRepairability: Headband, pouch, and battery are available as spare parts to help extend headlamp lifespanSearch for a Petzl stockist near you at:https://www.petzl.com/GB/en/Sport/Dealers

Welcome to the Lake District National Park, Englands largest and perhaps best-loved protected wild space. Home to soaring mountains, tucked-away little villages and the iconic

Overview: Distance: approx. 12km round tripElevation gain: 746mFormat: Out and backTime: 4+ hoursStart / End / Parking:I parked on the Lettershanbally Trail Head (google maps link) on the R344 outside of the Glencorbet valley. Theres space for up to 10 cars, if some strategic planning is done. If youre looking to approach from the Glencorbet valley, this is the recommended parking spot as of June 2026. The locals of Kylemore ask hikers not to park further into the valley due to congestion and blocked access occurring. Trail difficulty: Moderate - DifficultThe first half of this route follows a dirt track up the valley, and the second half is wild, open mountainside. This becomes a difficult rating for me because of the prolonged rocky, steep sections, and mountain terrain without clear paths. An ability to deal with mountain hazards, steep ground and scree is essential.Read about trail grading in Ireland here.Trail quality: 5/5I dont know if having a trail quality section for this mountain is appropriate, as while the lower half of the route uses a wide track in through the valley (there is a river to ford), the upper half of this route is not a trail and contains open mountainside and loose rock. This requires experience on moving on loose rock, as well as confident navigation skills for if there is cloud cover or bad weather blows in. Views: 5/5I love Galway and all the mountains you find here. I love the rugged nature of the Bens, and the wild, windy landscape is inspiring. You wont always have views in these mountains (the weather changes too fast for it ever to remain one way for long), but the moments you have are breathtaking. Buggy/Wheelchair friendly: NoDogs allowed: No - this route features farmland and possible livestock. When did I walk this route: June 2026External resources: Learn more about this summit on MountainViewsMountainViews is always my first stop when it comes to info on summits around Ireland.EastWest Maps: the most detailed maps youll find of Ireland, heres a link to the Connemara Mountains Sheet.Find all the County High Points of Ireland listed here Its a beautifully sunny Friday afternoon as I drive across Mayo and down through Killary Fjord to the start of my hike. This is truly one of the best parts of the Irish summer - if you finish work early enough, you can escape and fit a whole day of hiking into the long evenings. I pull into the small car park at the entrance to Lettershanbally Forest and quickly pack my bag. Its 4pm as I set off up the road. The first 10 minutes or so is along the R344, which is quite a busy road. Keeping eyes and ears open, I only have to step in a handful of times before I turn off onto the small boreen that leads you into the Glencorbet valley. Another 500m down the boreen, and as the lane turns right, I turn left onto the wide rocky track. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize For the next approx. 2km I follow this fairly straight track along the valley floor. I settle into an easy pace as I meander along the riverside. However, as I round a slight bend, Im pulled up short. Its time to cross the river, but there is no bridge. I look at the EastWest map of the area, and sure enough, a ford is marked here (but not marked on the OSI). I could walk back along the river and see if theres a section with suitable-looking stepping stones, but I hadnt really noticed any on the way in, so I peel off my socks and wade in. The cold water is almost pleasant in the warm sun. The water goes as high as my upper calf (although its worth remembering that I am quite short). Drying my legs and feet with the ends of my trousers, I continue on along the old road. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize At the end of this lane, I found myself in a small yard. The way that felt like the way the farmer intended walkers to take, was to actually head downhill, and use the gate towards the river. This is the only gate that wasnt locked or similar. Taking this gate means you can loop down towards the river and then around the fenced sheep pens. Always leave gates as you find them and/or follow the signs on them. Ill always be very grateful to the landowners who give access to the hills. From here, it is open mountainside to the summit. The first half is still grassy, and very steep. Looking at the maps, I chose the streams I wanted to stay between as I climbed up to the col between Benbaun and the 457m spot height to the NE. There are plenty of sheep trails and soil creep to give the illusion of a true trail. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize The second half of this climb is made up of the loose rock that the bens are famous for. Its about 1km and 280m of climbing left to the summit, but I try and forget about either as I slowly zig-zagged my way through the steep scree. Just as I reach the broken trig point, clouds start to stream in from the sea. The speed that they pour over the shoulder is breath-taking, and I watch them fly past as I eat my snacks. My brother rings me, and I shelter in the piled up rocks and enjoy the novelty of both feeling completely disconnected from the rest of the world, while talking to someone many hours and hundreds of kilometres away. View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize As I descend, a heavier bank of clouds settle in above me. I quickly pick my way back down, revelling in having the mountain completely to myself. As I begin to reach the col once more, a stunning rainbow lights up the Gleninagh River in the valley south of mine. I take more photos than makes any sense, in love with the colours and evening light. The re-tracing of my steps is as exact as it can be without a trail underfoot, and soon enough the ground is levelling out once more. I meet a frog or two in the wet grass. I take off my wet shoes and socks for one more river crossing - at this point there was plenty of bog in the shoes that taking them off probably wasnt making much of a difference. In the summer months Im happy enough to accept the wet feet if it means I can wear the trail shoes that Ive come to love (as always, assess your own feet and footwear for what you need yourself). View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize View fullsize Its as Im almost back to the boreen, the main road in sight up ahead, that the heavens open and decide to lash on me for the remainder of my walk back to the van. It almost felt like a karmic re-balancing, taking payment for the beautiful weather Id enjoyed all evening on the mountain itself. Its approaching 10pm as I slide open the door and climb in out of the wet - hanging layers haphazardly to hopefully dry out before my weekend of shadowing mountain skills courses. Im content as I eat my lunchbox dinner and plan my nights sleep. Its hopefully obvious from the text above, but this mountain is not an easy stroll. Its one of the wilder places you can visit in Ireland, and deserves respect. If youre someone completing the County High Points List, this mountain is firmly in the hard end of the list, along with the likes of Carrauntoohil and Mweelrea. If youre new to the hills, Id strongly recommend finding a local mountain leader to take you (send me an email if you need a recommendation). Further exploringOther trails in the area: Diamond Hill - Galway Day HikeThe Western Way Galway - Long Distance TrailThe Hymany Way - Long Distance TrailMm an - Galway Day Hike (google maps)I dont have a specific write up for this walk, but its a lovely short hike that takes in a section of the Western Way as you climb up to a pass in the Maumturks (one of Galways mountain ranges). Its approx. 4km total out and back. Viewpoints and beaches to visit: Dogs Bay is one of my favourite Irish beaches (google maps)Pine Island Viewpoint (google maps)This isnt a trail, but a very popular viewpoint from the general area The Connemara National Park Visitor Centre (same location as the start of the Diamond Hill hike above)Coffee/food options: I nearly always stop into Roundstone for a coffee when Im in this areaHostelsBenlettery HostelOtter Hostel at Killary Adventure

The Complete Camping Checklist for Beginners

Technically its called the Zempire Z Leg Single Camp Cot Stretcher, but Im British and a cot is something a baby sleeps in, so throughout Ill be referring to it as a camp bed. Semantics aside, this is a high quality camp bed thats super quick to set up and keeps your mattress firmly in place. Read on for my full review.What is it?Zempire Speedy Z Leg Single Camp Bed RRP: 75Overall Rating (5 / 5)StockistsGo OutdoorsBlacksMilletsOutdoor World DirectZempireFeaturesPowder coated 22mm steel tube600D poly oxfordCorner mattress strapsSupplied with carry bagLoading capacity: 200kgSize: 190 x 64 cm / 74.8 x 25.2 inWeight: 8kg What I thoughtHaving happily owned and used a similar XL camp bed for several years from a different brand, I didnt strictly need to buy the Zempire Z Leg, but Im a sucker for a) all things Zempire, b) lime green and c) anything that saves a bit of weight/space without compromising on comfort, all of which meant when I saw a price drop at Outdoor World Direct, I couldnt stop myself from placing an order.Many years ago, I used a more basic folding army bed with poles that you had to slide into the fabric at either end of the bed and then slot onto the frame. Invariably, there would be one that was a struggle to click into place, and whilst mine did the job very well for several years, the all-in-one construction of updated beds of this style makes setup even quicker and provides better height Ive never looked back.I like to be comfortable when I sleep and I also prefer to be raised off the ground. Air beds are fine and do the job, but often they deflate overnight and need to be replaced frequently, so I made the switch to folding camp beds many years ago and have since stuck to using a double camp bed with our double Outwell SIM on top.ProsHigh quality bedFast and easy to set up and take down againSturdy bed that doesnt move around or feel unstableHigh-quality carry bagGood value for moneyNice design Additional elasticated mattress strapsConsI wouldnt change a thing!The verdictI slept incredibly well on the bed, it felt strong and highly stable and I also felt like I could sit anywhere on the bed without worrying about it tipping over. The quick folding design makes set-up speedier than budget camp beds that require fiddly end poles to be slotted in to place.The extra height makes it really easy to get in and out of the bed so it would be great for folks with reduced mobility, and with the addition of a SIM on top, I think it makes a brilliant and incredibly comfortable camp bed choice, though of course for some, the camp bed alone will be sufficient.I paid just 40 for mine, including free delivery from Outdoor World Direct.DISCLOSURE | The featured product was privately purchased and is not supported by any brand(s).Where to next?Kampa Dometic Dream XL Camp Bed ReviewExpert Guide To Camping SIMs Self Inflating MattressesThe Ultimate List Of Camping Tips 66 Camping Tips & HacksThe post Zempire Z Leg Single Camp Camp Bed Stretcher Review appeared first on Camping Blog Camping with Style | Travel, Outdoors & Glamping Blog.

Guided walking holidays in the UK have changed in recent years. The routes are better documented, the kit is lighter, and walkers' expectations are higher than ever

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There is a particular kind of weekend that starts on Friday evening, involves a short drive out of the city, waking up somewhere completely different on Saturday morning, and arriving home relaxed on Sunday. A campervan makes that possible in a way that hotels and Airbnbs do not. You decide when to stop. You stay somewhere you could not book.Our Greystones depot is 45 minutes from Dublin City on the M11, which means you can collect a van on a Friday afternoon and be genuinely away before the evening is over. These five routes are all under three hours from Greystones, and all are done regularly by customers who pick up from us and come back with stories.Campervan hire near Dublin AirportRoute 1: The Wicklow Mountains and Valley (45 minutes)This is the route for anyone who wants to be somewhere beautiful with almost no driving. Head inland from Greystones on the R755 through Newtownmountkennedy and into the Vale of Avoca. The Military Road over the mountains from Kilmacanogue is one of the most dramatic short drives in the country. You pass Powerscourt Waterfall, cross open bog at Glencree, and drop down into the Wicklow Gap.Camping options: Glendalough Valley is the natural anchor. The campsite at Glendalough is well-suited to campervans and the monastic site at dawn, before the tour groups arrive, is one of those sights that stays with you. Alternatively, park up in the Vale of Avoca and walk the Meetings of the Waters.Journey time from Greystones: 45 minutes to Glendalough.Route 2: The Wexford Coast (1 hour 45 minutes)Take the N11 south, past Gorey and Enniscorthy, and follow the signs for Courtown or Rosslare. The south Wexford coast is underrated: sandy beaches, quiet roads, and campsites that work well for a two-night stop. Curracloe Beach, which stretches for 15 kilometres of unbroken sand, comes up in customer reviews from people who made the trip.Camping options: Curracloe Beach area has good campsite options for campervans. Rosslare has facilities and is a natural base for exploring the Hook Peninsula.Journey time from Greystones: approximately 1 hour 45 minutes.For a full guide to the southeast Ireland campervan routes in this region, see our southeast Ireland by campervan guide.Route 3: Kilkenny and the River Barrow (2 hours)Drive south-west via the M9 and you reach Kilkenny in under two hours. This is a different kind of break: medieval city, real pubs, a castle worth walking around. The River Barrow south of Kilkenny has quiet camping spots and the towpath is a good walk or cycle.Camping options: Nore Valley Park near Bennettsbridge is a popular base for a Kilkenny visit and has good motorhome facilities. The area around Graiguenamanagh along the Barrow is quieter and beautiful.Journey time from Greystones: just under 2 hours.Route 4: Waterford and the Copper Coast (2 hours 30 minutes)Continue south past Kilkenny on the M9 and you reach Waterford in two and a half hours. The Copper Coast, the stretch of coastline between Tramore and Dungarvan, is a UNESCO Geopark and one of the genuinely undervisited stretches of Irish coastline. The cliffs, coves and copper-era mining landscape are unlike anywhere else in the country.Camping options: Dunmore East has a campsite with views over the harbour. Tramore is a larger base with good facilities. For smaller, wilder spots, the Copper Coast road itself has several layby areas where you can stop overnight.Journey time from Greystones: approximately 2 hours 30 minutes.Route 5: The Wicklow Way South to Arklow (1 hour 30 minutes)Hug the coast from Greystones south through Brittas Bay, one of the finest beaches in Leinster, and continue to Arklow and beyond. Brittas Bay is popular in summer but the campsite there is well-managed and works well for campervans. From Arklow you can continue south or double back through the inland Wicklow landscape.Camping options: Brittas Bay area has the main Leinster coastal campsite. Arklow itself has additional options.Journey time from Greystones: 1 hour 30 minutes to Brittas Bay.A note on what to bring for a 48-hour breakYou do not need to pack much differently from a longer trip. The van has everything you need for cooking and sleeping: hob, oven, fridge, crockery, bedding if you add it as an extra. For a weekend break, most customers bring a bag of fresh food for Friday dinner and Saturday breakfast, and eat out one meal. Dogs are welcome on our pet-friendly hire. See our pet-friendly campervan hire page for details.The online check-in arrives two days before your pickup, so by the time you collect on Friday, most of the admin is already done. You can be on the road within 30 minutes of arriving at the depot.Booking a weekend breakWeekend hire is available throughout the year. Shoulder season (April, May, September and October) gives you quieter roads, better prices, and the best of Irish weather without the August crowds. Among campervan regulars, September in Connemara or Kerry is consistently rated better than August in almost every way.Check our current offers and available dates on the booking page, or view our full fleet to choose the right van for your trip.Campervan holiday offersThe post Weekend Campervan Breaks from Dublin: 5 Routes Under 3 Hours appeared first on Craic N Campers.