DTSquared
Bresser Weather Station Review
updated
Set on the site of an old clay tennis court the site is perfectly level and perfect for use in all seasons.
The site is set amongst beautiful woodland and the whole area is criss-crossed with miles of footpaths and bridleways. It's a great area for cycling especially if you enjoy mountain biking being just a mile or so from Danbury where there are lots of downhill and bermed gravity tracks to enjoy.
Music "Birth and Death of a Dream" by Philip Daniel Zach available on Artlist.io
Music "Look At Her Go" by Ge Filter Fish - Available on Artlist.io
Also had minor issue with ALKO jack and some musings on how secure the security wheel nuts provided as standard with Bailey caravans actually are.
Music
Track 1 - "Born Again" by Michael Shynes
Track 2 - "NRTHRN" by Off to Mars
Music "Beò" by Unmistakable available on Artlist.io
They could be a great solution as a more reliable way of pegging out your tent or awning when on less suitable ground. As well as avoiding some of the potential strains when trying to remove them.
In this video I tested them for speed and staying power to see just how well they worked.
For a 13% discount!! you can use the discount code DTsquared13
Peggy Peg StartKit - peggypeg.co.uk/collections/caravan-awning/products/startkit_caravan-awning-and-tent
Jumbo Set - peggypeg.co.uk/collections/caravan-awning/products/jumbo-set-for-caravan-awnings-and-tents
(These are NON Affiliate links I receive no remuneration from Peggy Peg if you purchase using these links.)
From simply using the mobile phone you already have, buying a low cost WiFi hotspot or installing a fixed mobile internet solution. There are many options available each with their advantages and disadvantages.
Chichester town centre is only a few miles away with lots to see and do, Tangmere Aviation Museum and Chichester marina and harbour are only four and six miles respectively and worth a visit. With Portsmouth only a 30 minute drive there's loads to do near this site.
Music "Next to You" by Southern Call available on Artlist.io
In this video I cover the full process of installing the system including mounting the roof antenna and discuss the included Govivo SIM card and other mobile contract options. I also go through some of the more unique features of the Avtex such as the ability to connect to a local WiFi source instead of using the Avtex purely to pick up a 4G mobile signal.
For those of you keen to minimise data usage there is also a section on how to set “metered WiFi” or “Low data mode” on your mobile device to avoid wasting data. And also different Amazon Fire Stick settings for reducing data usage whilst streaming.
Music “Binary Love” by Stanley Gurvich and “Abstract Emotion” by Stefano Mastronardi both available on Artlist.io
Avtex system (Discount for caravan club members)
shop.caravanclub.co.uk/product/1045752/avtex-wifi-amr994-5g-for-motorhomes-caravans
I’d always recommend taking the time to practice reversing your trailer but in this video I also show a great low cost simulator app for practicing at home. The “Reverse My Trailer” app is available on Apple and Android mobile devices as well as a Windows PC version. It is currently less than £2 to buy so well worth trying.
You can get the app on Apple app or Play Stores or find out more at the website here.-
reversemytrailer.co.uk/dts
A trailer reversing camera is also a useful accessory to have to help you reverse and I have a video on how a low-cost reversing camera can be fitted to most caravans WITHOUT having to drill any holes in the body work. youtu.be/LUmCavl85eA
Many thanks to Jim from ReverseMyTrailer for his help and support “tweaking” the app to produce the animations I needed for this video.
We have a Whale based system but the majority of the issues discussed apply to Truma and other makes.
Check out these websites for finding UK camp sites.-
* bookings.caravanclub.co.uk/sites
* * campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/siteseeker
* greenercamping.org
* themotorcaravannersclub.co.uk
* clbooking.co.uk
* ukcampsitesearch.co.uk
* ukcampsite.co.uk
* campsites.co.uk
* pitchup.com
* searchforsites.co.uk
* britstops.com
* park4night.com/en
* campercontact.com/en
* ioverlander.com
* uk-aire.co.uk
For Facebook Reviews consider checking out or joining these groups.-
* facebook.com/groups/CAMOGG
* facebook.com/groups/CAMCMembersReviewGroup
Useful mapping resources.-
* explore.osmaps.com
* google.com/maps
Also resources not mentioned in the video.-
thecampervanbible.co.uk
Also reviewed are all the accessories available at the time of purchase. Plus, I show how with a 3D printer I created some simple addons to make it even better.
Accessories reviewed.-
Secretlab Premium PC Mount
Secretlab MAGNUS Monitor Arm (single)
Secretlab Cable Management Bundle
Secretlab Magnetic Headphone Hanger
Secretlab MAGRGB
UGREEN Laptop stand - amazon.co.uk/UGREEN-Vertical-laptop-stand-holder/dp/B091B4SWR7?ref_=ast_sto_dp&th=1
RAVIAD USB 2.0 Extension cable
amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0932RLXXJ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
3D Printed parts on ThingiVerse
thingiverse.com/thing:6399939
If you enjoyed this video and are considering subscribing. Then you may prefer subscribing to my new channel youtube.com/@DTSquaredTech which going forward will be focussed on more tech and gadget related content like this. Thank you.
Music “Lights Up” by Jane & The Boy available on Artlist.io
A side benefit is that other devices such as microphones or even cameras can also be easily positioned without having to setup and takedown light stands.
I purchased the aluminium extrusion used for this project from KJN aluminium-profile.co.uk
Power track is made by Saxby Lighting saxbytrade.com (also available on Amazon)
Video lights Neewer RGB660
Music tracks.-
“Lights Up” (Instrumental Version) by Jane & The Boy
“Out of Flux”
Both available on Artlist.io
Here are some links for the products shown in the video.-
STRETCHY LIDS – LAKEDO Silicone Stretch Lids 【12... amazon.co.uk/dp/B08DQWF147?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
CLEANING PRODUCTS - homesteadcaravans.co.uk/accessory-shop/caravan-motorhome/valeting/?f=y&brand_0=fenwicks-cleaning-solutions
homesteadcaravans.co.uk/accessory-shop/caravan-motorhome/valeting/?f=y&brand_0=icanvalet
CRUMBS AWAY - www.crumbsaway.co.uk
PEG PULLER MALLET - homesteadcaravans.co.uk/accessory-shop/awnings-accessories/awning-accessories/outdoor-revolution-multi-mallet-with-extendable-peg-puller.htm
CADAC TAPAS DISHES - homesteadcaravans.co.uk/accessory-shop/camping-outdoor/barbecue-grill/cadac-tapas-set.htm
ROCK PEGS - homesteadcaravans.co.uk/accessory-shop/awnings-accessories/awning-accessories/blue-diamond-pile-driver-pegs-pro-case-20.htm
Also CAD accessories review - youtu.be/L9M_Kx2Zzwk
AWNING PULLER - homesteadcaravans.co.uk/accessory-shop/awnings-accessories/awning-accessories/kampa-caravan-awning-accessories/kampa-easy-awning-pulley.htm
AWNING ORGANISER - homesteadcaravans.co.uk/accessory-shop/awnings-accessories/awning-accessories/kampa-pro-wide-organiser-.htm
LOCK’N’LEVEL - locknlevel.co.uk/store
Full review - youtu.be/15rzRkRRTzg
This will be a series of videos and in this first episode I explain the limitations of my current setup and the overall plan for the new layout.
Next episode is already in the production queue and will cover the building of a low profile gantry system for mounting lights, microphones and cameras at ceiling level.
Music "Sleeper Valley" by Ardie Son available on Artlist.io
The fast on valve head can be removed to be used as a CO2 inflator, and the cap can be removed to store spare CO2 cartridges and more inside.
I decided to test how well the pump worked and to see if the internal storage could be useful even without purchasing the EDC multitool.
Available direct from One Up Components
uk.oneupcomponents.com/products/100cc-edc-pump
(This is not an affiliate link)
3D printed stash tube files available here
thingiverse.com/thing:6661308
There are lots of footpaths and bridleways to explore the beautiful Hampshire countryside with locations such as Watership down just a few miles away. A great location for walking and cycling especially mountain biking.
Music "Serenity " by Michael FK available on Artlist.io
20x110 is supported with an additional adaptor.
This video is not sponsored in anyway but for reference I purchased my rack from roofbox.co.uk (link below). I’ve purchased numerous racks from them over the yeas and they have always been very helpful.
roofbox.co.uk/scripts/rbvehsel4_tab.php/car-specific-accessories/thule_topride_568/Qx%40w%2C6M42VAwp3%40Rb%7B~cC4ure7yno7
If you would like to try adapting an existing OutRide rack then SiCD Limited based in Aberdeen Scotland have a range of adaptors.
sicd.co.uk
(These are NOT affiliated links)
The RSXA weighs just under 8kg so is not too heavy to take away in caravan or motorhomes.
It is available in an XL version the model, but I was loaned was the standard size.
Dimensions of the chair are.-
Height (opened)81cm to 115cm
Depth (opened)68cm
Height (folded)96cm
Depth (folded)68cm
Seat height43cm
Link to purchase from Homestead Caravans & Out Door Leisure (non-affiliated link).-
homesteadcaravans.co.uk/lafuma-rsxa-clip-air-comfort.htm
A short video of Garden House Farm Caravan and Motorhome Club CL site near Tattingstone Suffolk. This is a large well laid out site with electric hookup. There are three hard standings, all accessible from the gravelled driveway plus two grass pitches.
The site is dog friendly with a secure exercise area in which dogs can be safely let off their lead.
The site is set in the beautiful Suffolk country side with footpaths accessible directly from the site and Alton Water not far away. There are plenty of quiet lanes and bridleways so perfect for walking and cycling.
Music "Imagination" by Twin Signals available on Artlist.io
The bike was kindly loaned to me by Homestead Caravans and Outdoor Leisure but as always, I received no payment and no one had any control over the content or views expressed in this video.
You can find out more or purchase the MiRIDER one from Homestead this link.-
homesteadcaravans.co.uk/accessory-shop/caravan-motorhome/folding-bikes/mirider-one-electric-folding-bike.htm (Unaffiliated link - I receive no compensation if you purchase with this link).
Thanks to Ian, Daniella and Ed for their help when filming.
In the process I also explain how a buck converter can be used to lower and stabilise a 12 voltage power source.
Parts used in this project are.-
Buck converters (set of four) - amazon.co.uk/dp/B081N6WWJS?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
Recordable voice module - amazon.co.uk/dp/B07Y4WLYR6?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
This is the fourth step in upgrading my onboard system, you can watch these other videos to see how to.-
AUTOMATIC TANK FILL STOP - youtu.be/e53kfhNFYvY
AUTOMATIC FILLER BYPASS VALVE - youtu.be/xHb2s4kIk8w
WATER LEVEL GAUGE - youtu.be/PzVQDRdUgM4
This is a large spacious off-grid site (No electric hookup). All pitches are grass but being on top of a hill the site drains well.
There is also a toilet with sink and a planter with fresh herbs that can be picked when in season.
The site is set in beautiful country side with many footpaths and quiet lanes and bridleways so perfect for walking and cycling. There are two pubs near by in Biddestone one and a half miles to the east and Ford just half a mile (down a hill) to the west.
Castle Combe (named 'The Prettiest Village in England' ) and home to Castle Combe Race Circuit is only a few miles. Reachable by bicycle or walking if you are ok with some steep hills. Biddestone, Ford and Slaughterford are all closer, very pretty and have few if any tourists.
Music "Miles Away" by Michael FK available on Artlist.io
Hope you enjoy it and back with more caravan and tech related content next weekend.
All of these are less than £25 and improve your BBQing experience and would make a great gift for anyone you know that enjoys a good BBQ.
If you are interested in buying any of these then here are some UNAFFILIATED links to help you find them online.
Leg Leveller – Great for keeping Cadac Carri Chef 50 level on uneven ground
homesteadcaravans.co.uk/accessory-shop/camping-outdoor/barbecue-grill/cadac-carri-chef-50-leg-leveller.htm
Utensil Holder – Smart looking hooks for hanging BBQ tools while you cook.
homesteadcaravans.co.uk/accessory-shop/camping-outdoor/barbecue-grill/cadc-mini-universal-tool-l-holder.htm
Tapas Set – Set of four individual non-stick cooking dishes for use on grill
homesteadcaravans.co.uk/accessory-shop/camping-outdoor/barbecue-grill/cadac-tapas-set.htm
Hamburger Press - Diecast aluminium press with food grade ceramic non-stick coating for making neat uniform burgers.
homesteadcaravans.co.uk/accessory-shop/camping-outdoor/barbecue-grill/cadac-burger-press-11cm.htm
Curved Smoker Box – For adding fragrant wood chips to gas BBQ grills.
homesteadcaravans.co.uk/accessory-shop/camping-outdoor/barbecue-grill/cadac-mini-curved-smoker-box.htm
Please note all items were purchased with my own money and I received no compensation for making this review video.
The first is to avoid the step sinking into soft ground when parked on grass pitches, this is achieved simply by increasing the load area of the step.
The second purpose is to enable the step to be raised a variable amount by stacking one or more of the additional riser plates. The top plate raises the height of the step by approximately 6mm and the two other models are for riser plates which raise an additional 10mm and 20mm respectively.
Peg holes in each of the plates allow a standard tent peg to be pushed through the combined stack for additional stability.
I printed using standard PLA and it seems to hold up to usage fairly well since the majority of the forces are compression. Infill is definitely required, somewhere in the region of 30% seems sufficient but higher densities should increase longevity of the parts.
I’ve used the step with 10mm+20mm stackers to give a combined lift of 36mm. I cannot guarantee the safety of using this model especially if stacked any higher. By using this model you accept full responsibility for the final printed item and any liability for its use.
You can download the model completely free of charge from ThingiVerse by either searching for DTSquared or using the link.-
thingiverse.com/thing:6008565
This is a concept idea so I cannot guarantee its safety or reliability, please take care if you raise the height of your step in any way.
This is a large spacious site with electric hookup and fresh drinking water. There are three hard standings and plenty of space for pitching on grass.
There are also toilets and showers.
The site is set in beautiful country side with many footpaths and quiet lanes so perfect for walking and cycling. It's also within just a few miles of the coast.
Music "Press Y for Healing" by Vic Davi available on Artlist.io
The rack is designed to keep the plates secure whilst travelling so that they don’t roll or fall out of the rack. (I would still highly recommend mounting the rack in a cupboard that could be closed.)
The rack currently suits two plate sizes larger 27cm diameter plates and smaller 20cm plates. Both sizes support rim thicknesses of up to 7mm and depth (height of plate when in normal use) of 18mm.
The system is modular so can accommodate any number of plates with each plate requiring a base and a back piece to be printed. The rack pieces slot in side by side so any combination can be created for example 4 large plates then 2 small plates and so on.
There is a spacer module which slots between large and small racks to allow for where the larger plates base is extending at the height of the smaller plate. Other than that, the plates are all stored closely together with just a 6mm gap between each making it very space efficient.
I’m considering revising my model to be parametric based on the plate size, if I get around to that then I will upload a selection of other sizes.
You can download the model completely free of charge from ThingiVerse by either searching for DTSquared or using the link.-
thingiverse.com/thing:5982425
If you don’t have access to a 3D printer and are interested in the Froli plate holder then you can buy them at Homestead Caravans here.
homesteadcaravans.co.uk/accessory-shop/caravan-motorhome/housewares/housekeeping/froli-plate-holder-.htm
This is a large spacious site with electric hookup. All pitches are grass but being on top of a hill the site drains well.
There are also toilets and a washing up sink available for use and free WiFi.
The site is set in beautiful country side with many footpaths and quiet lanes so perfect for walking and cycling. It's also within just a few miles of Bewel Water.
Music "Captivated" by Cristof Walters available on Artlist.io
In this video I explain what certificated sites are, what they are like, how to book them and how much you can expect to pay.
For more resources checkout. -
To find CL sites with availability. - clbooking.co.uk -
CL sites (caravan club) - caravanclub.co.uk/uk-holidays/uk-search-and-book/certificated-locations
CS sites (camping club) - campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/siteseeker/? campsiteTypes=3&isAllYear=false&isBookOnline=false&page=1
CAMOGG (Off Grid advice) - facebook.com/groups/CAMOGG
In this short video I show how you can add a float switch to the onboard tank to automatically switch off power to the external pump once the tank is full.
The 3D model of the float valve can be downloaded here.- thingiverse.com/thing:5915262
This is the third step in upgrading my onboard system, you can watch these other videos to see how to.-
AUTOMATIC FILLER BYPASS VALVE - youtu.be/xHb2s4kIk8w
WATER LEVEL GAUGE - youtu.be/PzVQDRdUgM4
A hitch lock is an essential security device for improving your caravan's security and is often a requirement of most caravan insurance.
I purchased my lock from Homestead Caravans & Outdoor Leisure
homesteadcaravans.co.uk/accessory-shop/caravan-motorhome/security/al-ko-aks2004-3004-premium-safety-hitchlock.htm
(Link not affiliated)
Kit list.-
Wolf Tooth 8 Bit Pack Pliers
KMC Mini chain tool
Tubolito 29" Utralight tube
Topeak tyre levers
Lifeline JetValve CO2
Lezyne Tubeless Kit
Leatherman Bond multitool
"Machinery of War" by Evgeny Bardyuzha available on Artlist.io
Available in the UK from.-
merlincycles.com/wolf-tooth-8-bit-pack-pliers-209728.html
Or direct from Wolf Tooth
wolftoothcomponents.com/collections/tools/products/8-bitpack-pliers
(These are NOT affiliated links)
OSmaps also provides access to more basic maps of other parts of the world.
In this review I cover the purchase options, from free to annual subscription. Along with a detailed review on the apps functionality.
Particularly useful for cyclists I explain how either the mobile app or the web site can be used to create routes and then export them to a cycle navigation device such as a Garmin by exporting GPX files.
When combined with the E-Caliber's lightweight carbon frame this should make the bike perfect for travelling. Especially if the bike needs to be carried on the car roof for example when towing.
Special thanks to our instructor Rosie for her help and patience.
For details of True-Grip experiences see truegrip-offroad.co.uk
Recommended resources.-
facebook.com/groups/CAMOGG - Facebook off grid group.
Please check out my other off-grid videos for more detailed information.-
CAMOGG Off Grid facebook group - youtu.be/SCXJFkOB-RU
Volts, amps and watts explained - youtu.be/1n9HY7BOxVI
AllPowers Solar generator review - youtu.be/qFPxxQZKLyM
Calculate off-grid power usage - youtu.be/k9pW4XVe8c8
Batteries for off-grid - youtu.be/rlgykMe1XOU
Solar equipment - youtu.be/LeLUJETd-mc
KS Energy lithium battery review - youtu.be/xqqHsclppR0
Solar panel upgrade - youtu.be/Zl4FR38LCK0
Lithium storage profile - youtu.be/_xb2SuduCQs
External solar panel connector - youtu.be/lwh8JgI10RQ
Victron smart shunt review - youtu.be/W-fwLQmdhcc
Tips for first time off grid - youtu.be/y2wHljQb-9s
Recipe (for two people).-
Fresh ripe Avocado
Two boiled eggs
Sour Dough Bread (of your preference)
Hollandaise Sauce
Butter or Spread (optional)
Salt & Pepper
Salad leaves to garnish
Music "Shake That Fever" by Duffmusiq available on Artlist.io
This is a large spacious site with fully serviced pitches providing 16amp electric hookups, fresh drinking water and grey waste drainage directly adjacent to each pitch. There are three hardstanding pitches and two grass pitches to choose from.
There is also a well appointed, and heated, shower and toilet and a washing machine is available for use at additional charge per wash.
Music "Surfing Time" by Lux-inspira available on Artlist.io
Filmed at and around Newton Grove CL site near Banbury in Oxfordshire.
Music "A Long Time Ago In A Tower Far Far Away" by Jakub Pietras available on artlist.io
link to video on how to make marker light cover
youtu.be/OExl7Fmzb8c
Music "Anthem of a Quirky Hipster" by Rex Banner Available on Artlist.IO
Music "Beautiful Things" by Katrina Stone available on Artlist.io
Track 1 "Go Off" (Instrumental Version) by Milano on Artlist.io
Track 1 "Out Muddin" by Milano on Artlist.io
If your hitch electrical cable gets damaged by dragging on the ground then here's a temporary repair using fairly easily accessible tools and parts to get you going again.
This is a large spacious site with all the basics such as water and chem point as well as electric hookups and exclusive use of W.C (at house).
The site is set just a few miles from the quiet town of Llandovery and set amongst beautiful scenery surrounded by the hills of the river Towy valley.
There's excellent walking and cycling all around including the Waterfalls walk and mountain bike trails just a few miles up the road at Cwm Rhaeadr Forest.
The Llyn Brianne Dam & Reservoir further up the valley is also worth a visit and a drive along its eastern coast.
Music "Diamonds" by Chariots available on Artlist.io
Music "Chonklap!" by Out Of Flux available on Artlist.io
Bikes are a great way to get around when staying at campsites in a caravan, motorhome, or tent. If you are thinking about taking bikes with you then in this video I explain everything you need to know about how to transport them and secure them on site. I also cover what tools, spares and equipment are a good idea to take with you. Some thoughts and advice on different types of bikes with specific notes on eBikes such as carrying and charging. And finally explain some of the reasons why bikes and camping really do go well together.
Sections.-
Transporting : youtu.be/352JjAUWtFs?t=29
Security : youtu.be/352JjAUWtFs?t=241
eBikes : youtu.be/352JjAUWtFs?t=346
Equipment Tools and Spares : youtu.be/352JjAUWtFs?t=441
Types of Bike : youtu.be/352JjAUWtFs?t=515


