They began as horse-drawn carriages used mainly by 'Gypsies' in Europe and now caravans are one of the most popular forms of travel accommodation.
Judging by the latest versions, the future is bright for the 'travel trailer'. With everything from seaworthy campers to robot homes that can walk, we bet you didn't realise caravans could look like this.
.........................................................................................................................................................
1. Opera
.........................................................................................................................................................
The Opera - this one's not in Sydney
This luxury, yet small, camper has warm-air heating, an espresso bar, a boiler supplying hot water to the shower and kitchen, its own gas supply and a ceramic toilet.
On top of all of this, it even has a teak veranda where you can enjoy chilled wine from the wine cabinet found at the end of the bed.
It is hard to believe designer Axel Enthoven was able to make it all fit.
.........................................................................................................................................................
2. Mercedes-Benz New Vito
.........................................................................................................................................................
The Vito - complete with Mercedes luxury
The first Mercedes-Benz New Vito has been introduced in the UK, with its luxury interior and tech. It boasts a pulldown flat-screen TV and quartz granite surfaces, a two-ring burner hob and a BBQ point.
With the push of a button you can make the camper even bigger by opening the electronically controlled roof panel. With sales of motorhomes/caravans up 18 per cent on last year, this could be a best seller.
.........................................................................................................................................................
3. The Sealander
.........................................................................................................................................................
The Sealander - it walks on water
A camper and boat in one, this versatile camping experience lets you explore both land and sea.
It has a modern interior, made from the highest quality stainless steel, plastic, wood and leather. Despite its small size, The Sealander has large panoramic windows, a sun roof and a bunk bed that can be converted into seating for up to six people.
.........................................................................................................................................................
4. RS Motorhomes: The Evolution
.........................................................................................................................................................
The Evolution - pack the bikes and jetskis
The Evolution has sleeping accommodation for up to eight, storage space throughout and a large garage suitable for bikes or even jetskis.
It has a fully-sized shower and double bed, and a kitchen full of all the appliances you could ever need. In some models you can add even more tech, such as TVs in all living areas, an external TV, surround sound and a satellite system.
.........................................................................................................................................................
5. Mehrzeller
.........................................................................................................................................................
The Mehrzeller - it really is a caravan
Although it might resemble something you find in a modern art museum, this quirky object is actually a caravan.
Buyers work with architects to create fully tailor-made solutions - they can add more floor space or create cleverly crafted cupboards, all to suit you.
More travel gadgets (on a smaller scale): The Ultimate Gadget Pack For Travellers
Food on wheels. A Moveable Feast: San Francisco’s Best Food Trucks
.........................................................................................................................................................
6. The Walking House
.........................................................................................................................................................
The Walking House - at least it won't outrun you
If you have fears of a zombie apocalypse then this is the caravan for you.
Not only does this house do the walking for you, it also powers itself through wind and solar power, collects rainwater, has a composting toilet, a wood burning stove and you can even add a greenhouse.
The house will always have three feet on the ground and moves at a similar pace to a human (comforting to know it can't outrun you). By adding several modules together, buyers can even create walking villages.
.........................................................................................................................................................
7. Mica
.........................................................................................................................................................
The Mica - small room with a big view
This tiny hut measures only 2.6 metres wide and looks like something you would find in a scrap yard, but it is surprisingly luxurious inside.
The hot-rolled weathered steel siding contains a full-sized bedroom and a full-sized bathroom with shower. Whilst you relax you can also enjoy the views out of the wide glass doors.
.........................................................................................................................................................
8. i-hut
.........................................................................................................................................................
The i-hut - just add log burner and iPod dock
The home away from home. The i-hut comprises a double bedroom, shower room, kitchen with dining area, a living room and a loft.
It can sleep up to six people and you can purchase added extras such as a log burner and iPod dock.
.........................................................................................................................................................
9. innovan
.........................................................................................................................................................
The Innovan - anywhere you want to go
This super compact camper uses every inch of space possible. It’s small and agile making it the perfect camper to take anywhere in the world, whether you opt for the caravan or the unit that slides on to a car.
The shower unit and kitchen are located on the outside of the van. The kitchen extends on pull out drawer runners and has a sink, worktop and marine BBQ.
.........................................................................................................................................................
10. Volkner Mobil 800 C
.........................................................................................................................................................
The Volkner - it comes complete with toy box
Live the life of high-tech comfort in this vehicle.
It has full-sized beds, a full-sized shower, a garage, a wine cooler, extendable plug columns, a retractable TV screen and that's just the inside.
On the outside you will also find security cameras, a grill and - best of all - a compartment to hold your supercar.
.........................................................................................................................................................
Visit your local Flight Centre store or call 131 600 for more travel advice and the latest travel deals.
.........................................................................................................................................................
This article was from The Daily Telegraph and was legally licensed through the NewsCred publisher network.
