Stress can turn your hair grey overnight

It’s a story we’ve all heard: someone experiences a traumatic event and suddenly wakes up completely grey. And while it makes for a dramatic tale, the reality is very different. Once a strand of hair has emerged from the scalp, its colour is fixed. Hair cannot suddenly lose pigment overnight. However, stress can still affect your hair in other ways. Prolonged periods of stress may contribute to premature ageing of the follicles, and can trigger increased hair shedding through conditions such as telogen effluvium.

“Stress absolutely impacts our overall wellbeing, including our hair health,” says Andrew. “But it won’t transform your colour overnight as some people believe. Managing stress, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and looking after your overall wellbeing can all contribute to healthier-looking hair in the long term.”

Expensive hair products are always better

It’s easy to assume that the most expensive products must deliver the best results. However, when it comes to haircare, price doesn’t always equal performance. Some premium products contain exceptional ingredients and advanced formulations, but others command high prices due to branding, packaging and marketing, rather than superior effectiveness.

“The best hair product isn’t necessarily the most expensive one,” explains Andrew. “It’s the one that’s right for your hair.”

Different hair types have very different needs. Fine hair, curly hair, colour-treated hair, and mature hair all require different approaches. Rather than focusing solely on price, consider ingredients, professional recommendations and your individual hair concerns. A carefully chosen affordable product can often outperform a luxury alternative if it’s better suited to your hair’s needs.

Visit Andrew’s Instagram pages @andrew_barton_hair and @andrewbarton.thehairexpert

Let’s Talk This Morning – why do you think you’re such a hit on the show?
“With me, what you see is what you get. I don’t pretend to be anyone else. If something makes me laugh, I’ll laugh. If I get emotional, I get emotional. People seem to appreciate honesty. I also have a wonderful side kick in the form of Dermot O’Leary. What a treat it is spending time with him.”

Your celeb interviews have always been spot-on. How have you managed to get away with it?
“I think it’s because I’m genuinely interested in people. I never go in trying to catch anyone out. I just have a conversation, and hopefully they forget the cameras are even there.”

What’s been your favourite celebrity chat so far?
“There have been so many! Honestly, every interview has its own special moment, so picking one feels a bit unfair. But if you made me pick one (or two), I always love interviewing The Rock and Hugh Jackman. I’ve been incredibly lucky.”

Any celebs that haven’t got your personality as much as you’d have liked?
“Sometimes people are a little nervous at first, and that’s completely understandable. I just keep chatting, make them feel comfortable and usually, before long, we’re having a lovely laugh together. It’s usually actors who get the most nervous, because they’re used to playing a character.”

Who would you love to interview?
“Somebody like Michelle Obama. She’s incredibly interesting but I’d love to see the person behind all the glamour and have a proper chat.”

Divine’s Luxury Hot Chocolate Bundle, £19.99 

Made from premium Fairtrade cocoa, this collection offers a comforting drink that’s deeply satisfying. Included in the bundle is Luxury Hot Chocolate that’s smooth, creamy, and rich; Hazelnut Praline, combining roasted hazelnut with smooth cocoa; and Salted Caramel – think buttery caramel and rich cocoa with a hint of sea salt.

Mount Gay Bajan Spiced Rum, £24.95

Spiced drinks are having a moment, with people seeking bolder experiences – and Mount Gay is bringing the spice this summer with the launch of its new rum-based Bajan Spiced. The latest expression blends zesty grapefruit with warming ginger, delivering a fresh, flavour-forward twist that captures the vibrant flavours of Barbados in every sip.

Russell & Atwell Clotted Cream Toffee Chocolates, £8.50

Bringing together one of the nation’s favourite flavours with the ingredient of a traditional cream tea, these chocolates feature a rich, clotted cream soft toffee centre, made with Rodda’s Cornish clotted cream, finished with oak smoked Dorset Sea Salt, all encased within a rich, smooth milk chocolate shell.

Hydes Cyder Mixed Box of Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Cans, £45

Available in both the signature Cyder and alcohol-free Hydes Lyte, these new cans still contain the same wild-fermented premium English cider. Born in Hampshire using selected orchard apples and traditional bittersweet varieties, they deliver a clean, lightly carbonated drink with crisp apple notes, citrus, and a refined finish.

Maggi Korean Inspired Gochujang Beef Noodles, £2.50

These Korean-inspired instant noodles boast a smoky flavour that’s sweet and spicy. The hottest variant in the new line-up, there’s also Kimchi Chicken, a medium heat that’s spicy, and tangy. Then there’s the mild (but still with a kick) Spicy Cheese, with a punchy aroma and umami profile.

Edinburgh Gin Spicy Chilli & Lime Liqueur, £16.75

This new gin comes amid growing demand for bold flavours, with nearly half of millennials (45%) saying spicy flavours make drinks feel more premium. This liqueur balances zesty lime with a gentle chilli warmth to create a fresh, citrus-led serve with just the right amount of heat.

Doughlicious Cookies & Cream Ready to Bake Cookies, £3.30

Want to bake without fuss? Here’s your answer! Crispy on the outside, and gooey on the inside, these gluten-free cookies are made with 100% British oats and are packed with the natural ingredients to deliver a snacking experience in minutes. No mixing bowls, no washing up – just pop in the oven and go!

Dragon Whisky, £60 

A 12-year-old, double wood-matured blend, this brings together whiskies from Japan, Taiwan, and India. Finished in sherry casks, it’s rich and layered, with notes of dried dates, red fruits and dark chocolate, alongside aromas of vanilla, raisin, apricot, spice and a whisper of smoke. Equally at home sipped neat or in a beautifully-balanced cocktail.

Tenzing Fiery Mango Natural Energy, £28.99 for 12 cans

Formulated with Lion’s Mane to support focus and mental clarity, plus magnesium and vitamin D to sustain everyday energy, this drink is powered by natural caffeine from green coffee. It’s 100% plant-based and supports immune function and hydration, with a mango flavour ,and with ginger and cayenne pepper for a bold finish.

Black Bee British Runny Summer Honey, £6.95

Light golden, and floral, this is gathered from apiaries across four counties, with a smooth texture and fragrant flavour. Black Bees’ entire range is never blended and fully traceable, with the name of the beekeeper printed on every jar. They also protect vital pollinators, donating 2% of turnover to the charity Plantlife, helping to create 40 acres of wildflower meadows across the UK.

Origins Vodka, £45 

A genuinely pan-Asian vodka, this is triple-blended using longan honey from Taiwan, barley from the Tibetan highlands, nine varieties of potato, and ultra-soft water from Japan’s Sakurajima Peninsula. Creamy and aromatic with delicate, earthy, herbaceous notes, it’s ideal over ice or in a bone-dry Martini.

GOOD PHATS Spanish Extra Virgin Olive Oil, £14.95

Perfect for everyday cooking, this features olives grown in the warm climate of Andalucía, which give this cold-pressed oil a fruity taste and warm, rounded flavours. Available as an organic version (£19.95), there’s also an Italian Extra Virgin Olive Oil (£16.95) – perfect for finishing, dressing, and drizzling.

Mushus Raspberry Fizz 6 Cans Bundle, £20

New to the UK, this is a functional alternative to traditional beauty supplements. Its formula features plant-based collagen, probiotic HU58, and tremella mushroom, selected to support skin health, elasticity, and hydration. Lightly sparkling and infused with real fruit juice, each can redefines the way to approach your skin health.

Popcorn Shed Carrot Cake Popcorn Snack Pack, £2.09

Handcrafted in the UK using high-quality, natural ingredients, this snack pack is designed for on-the-go indulgence, lunchbox love, and those “just one more handful” moments. Gluten-free, this carrot cake flavoured caramel popcorn with cream cheese frosting is a playful take on a classic dessert.

Cimbroni 33 Coffee Sambuca, £45

This luxury coffee-infused sambuca is crafted in the UK by master distillers, blending star anise, botanicals, and coffee with organic agave. Aged in oak for 33 days to create a smooth, rich, and sippable spirit – rather than a harsh shot – expect roasted coffee, burnt caramel, and deep spice flavours.

Fiid Golden Curry House Special (8 pouches), £25

Alongside a complete rebrand, Irish plant-based fiid has also unveiled improved recipes across its full range. Refined to reduce fat, salt, and sugar, as well as pack in more lentils and beans, the range now also includes Smoky Black Bean Chilli, Sundried Tomato Lentil Ragu, and Lentil & Sweet Potato Curry.

Gunpowder Gin, £45

This gin is crafted with 23 botanicals including gunpowder tea, Kampot peppercorns, Korean omija berries, dried tangerine peel and osmanthus flower. Crisp, complex and refreshingly aromatic, it lends itself just as well to a classic Martini as to a slightly more playful Negroni.

BOSH! Seasonings, £4 each

Founded by childhood friends, BOSH! has become one of the UK’s most influential plant-based food brands. They’ve now released three seasonings: Sweet & Smoky BBQ, Citrus & Spice, and Rich & Savoury Umami. Each has been carefully crafted with ease and versatility – they can be cooked with or sprinkled over at the end of cooking for fresh flavour.

Tamp Coffee No1 Espresso Coffee Beans, £10

Roasted weekly in London with beans originating from Brazil and Ethiopia, this decaf option offers a balanced cup with chocolate, strawberry and milk chocolate notes. Designed for everyday drinking while still delivering depth and complexity, it works beautifully as a straight espresso or in milk-based drinks.

Honestly Manuka Get Well Spoon, £12.99

This offers five servings of the brand’s most potent Intensive 850+ MGO Mānuka Honey. Independently tested by an accredited lab, it’s been sourced from New Zealand with care, working directly with beekeepers to ensure the honey gives back to the people and places that make it possible.

El Supremo 5-Year-Old Rum, £29.50

This rum’s slowly reduced over open fire for nine hours to create miel de caña, or sugarcane honey. The rum is then double-cask aged: first in native Paraguayan Incienso Marrón wood, before being finished in French oak. Its signature smooth, subtly sweet floral profile is what makes it the perfect base for premium cocktails.

Eat Real Birdseye Chilli, Zesty Lime & Sea Salt Multiseed Tortillas, £2.75

A new chip for dipping, sharing and snacking, these are made from a blend of corn, flaxseed, sunflower seeds and quinoa, offering a distinctive crunch and flavour first recipes. Built to dip and pair with everything from guacamole to punchy salsas, they’ve also A Touch of Sea Salt, and Smoky Tomato Salsa with a hint of Chilli varieties.

MOMO Carmelo’s Blood Orange Kombucha, £28 for six bottles

Using renowned farmer Carmelo’s Moro Blood Oranges, which burst with bright citrus acidity and berry-like sweetness, MOMO’s limited edition drink blends the orange harvest with raw and unfiltered kombucha – alongside a sturdy base of tea, touch of raw cane sugar, hint of hibiscus and elderflower.

Little Baobab Senegalese Peanut Caramel Sauce, £4.99

A London-based Senegalese restaurant, Little Baobab have just introduced this sauce available to buy online. The perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth, it’s made with peanuts, cream, sugar, salt and vanilla extract, resulting in a rich and smooth treat perfect over ice cream, fruits, or cake.

Fever-Tree Blood Orange Ginger Beer, £2.40

Pairing iconic Sicilian blood oranges with Fever-Tree’s signature ginger blend, this has been crafted to meet the demand for sophisticated premium soft drinks. Using fruit sugars instead of cane sugar, the Blood Orange Ginger Beer is a lower-calorie option that still results in a crisp, clean finish.

Fearne & Rosie Strawberry Seedless Preserve, £3.50

This new addition to the vegan range is still bursting with 70% fruit, but this time with no seeds, for a super-smooth finish. Plus, true to Fearne & Rosie form, it delivers all the sweet goodness you expect, but with 40% less sugar than standard jams, with each jar made from with 31 strawberries.

eauYes Sparkling Mineral Water Tasting Pack, £ 16.99

Originating from natural minerals and with no sugar, this is the first flavoured sparkling mineral water range to hit the UK. Offering source-to-sip goodness, it features naturally-occurring minerals and electrolytes to support overall hydration and wellness, and comes in six original flavours.

Hilltop Tracklements Fresh Chilli Jam Hot Honey, £4.50

Love chilli but crave honey sweetness too? Consider this your answer. The combination delivers a fusion of heat, fruity undertones, and subtle savoury depth, making it the perfect touch for a wide range of dishes – think drizzling over goats’ cheese, boosting burgers, grilled sandwiches, and more.

Aperol Spritz TO GO, £2.69

For the first time in its 107‑year history, this aperitif is going portable! Say hello to Aperol Spritz TO GO, a ready‑to‑drink format that takes cocktails served in venues across the UK into even more social gatherings. Expect the classic bittersweet orange, herbal notes, and sparkling character of an Aperol Spritz, expressed through a light and refreshing flavour profile.

Crosta Mollica Primavera Pizza, £6.25

This pizza pairs Crosta Mollica’s signature tomato sauce with mozzarella, grilled courgettes, peppers, and artichokes, alongside olives and red onion infused with balsamic, then finished with a lemongrass and mascarpone sauce. There’s also other new additions: Vegan Siciliana, Salami Napoli Pizzetta, Quattro Formaggi, and a Garlic & Rosemary Pinsa Bread.

Solera 23 Imperial Rum, £55

This small-batch sipping rum is made from a blend aged between six and 23 years old from Thailand, the Philippines and Indonesia. It’s matured at origin using the traditional solera process in ex-bourbon and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks. Its taste? Smooth, indulgent and full of depth.

All Dressed Up Jalapeño Green Goddess Dressing, £5.99

All Dressed Up has teamed with Mexican-inspired restaurant group Wahaca for this lively take on a classic dressing, using fresh tarragon, coriander, parsley, and the heat of green jalapeño. Creaminess from soya milk gives texture, while lemon, lime, and cider vinegar bring citrussy freshness.

Ukiyo Japanese Nashi Pear Gin, £27

Distilled in Chiba, east of Tokyo, on a traditional rice spirit base, this combines delicate nashi pear with yuzu citrus, shiso leaf and subtle green tea notes. The result is crisp, balanced and lightly aromatic, offering a fresh alternative to classic dry and sweeter flavoured gins.

OURS TO Peach & Yoghurt Still Cocktail, £10.99 for a pack of 4

This low-ABV – just 3% – canned cocktail is designed for any social occasion, and for people who want to drink well without next-morning regret. They’ve another flavour, too – Grapefruit & Cinnamon – both of which are made with Soju, South Korea’s national alcoholic beverage, often compared to vodka but with a sweeter, less harsh flavour.

MOTH Mango Margarita and Strawberry Daiquiri Cocktails, £3.99 each

Made using 100% real fruit juice and award-winning spirits, these cocktails are designed for pouring over ice – or sipped chilled from the can. The Mango Margarita combines mango juice with tequila, triple sec, and lime, while the Strawberry Daiquiri mixes strawberry juice, lime, and rum.

The Ned Skyscraper 2024 Syrah, £17

This cool-climate Syrah is aged for 16 months in French oak puncheons, offering flavours of blackberry and pomegranate, layered with star anise and white pepper, fine tannins and a long, refined finish. Pair with lamb tagine, slow-cooked lamb shoulder or roasted mushrooms with a balsamic and soy glaze. 

Alcohol and weight loss jabs

A study has found that among a group of 962 individuals taking semaglutide or tirzepatide – the active ingredients in Wegovy and Mounjaro respectively – 71.7% noted a reduced desire to drink alcohol. However, if you do decide to drink, weight loss as a result of taking Mounjaro or Wegovy can cause a lower tolerance of alcohol. And while there is no reported specific interaction between weight loss medication and alcohol, ZAVA recommends you avoid drinking, as it can lead to low blood sugar-related side effects, an increase in appetite, and an increase in the number of empty calories you consume.

This feature was provided courtesy of weight loss specialists ZAVA.

Netgear Nighthawk M3, £399

We can’t live without Wi-Fi – let’s face it – and this is where the Nighthawk 3 steps in. A powerful 5G mobile router with Wi-Fi 6 performance, it also boasts a 13-hour battery, and support for up to 32 devices, keeping you connected wherever you pitch up. There’s even coverage in over 125 countries and easy SIM swapping!

Exploding Kittens No Loyalty Game, £19

Card games are a perfect addition to any camping trip for proper family time. Here’s one we like: a chaotic, laugh-out-loud party game where teams shuffle every round, alliances are temporary, and only one player walks away with five tokens and ultimate bragging rights. Flip, team up, complete the challenge, and betray again next round!

Hoddog Card Game, £7.99

Here’s another game for the family: using cards with different toppings, place same-numbered matched sets to build the longest hot dog – but be careful pushing your luck, as the timer might run out! What’s more, as you assemble your meal using hot dog cards, ketchup cards are revealed, moving the timer along until the final SPLAT is drawn.

Highlander Venture Backpack, £24.99

This 20L day pack’s main compartment has compression straps for neat packing, and hydration bladder compatibility for outdoors activities. A bungee corded front pouch makes for additional storage, while the elasticated side pockets are perfect for a water bottle and umbrella. All that plus adjustable chest and shoulder straps for correct load distribution.

BiGDUG Folding Camping & Festival Trolley, £76

With a 150kg load capacity, this trolley’s wide 9.5cm all‑terrain wheels glide over uneven ground with ease. It folds flat in seconds for compact storage, while its durable steel frame ensures long‑lasting performance. Steerable front wheels and an adjustable handle provide smooth manoeuvring, plus handy side pockets offer easy‑access extra storage.

Coleman Snap ‘N Go Cooler, from £119.95

Designed for anyone short on space, this cooler collapses down to a third of its size when not in use. Available in three sizes – 33L, 42L and 52L capacity – it simply snaps up to full size in an instant when you’re ready to head out. That gives you space to pack and keep cool plenty of food and drinks.

Micro Scooters Micro Deluxe Wagon, £139.95

This wagon folds easily for storage with a protective cover. The height adjustable handlebar makes steering easier, and 360-degree rotating front wheels allow for optimal manoeuvring. It also comes complete with a removable sunroof and cool bag, so your snacks and drinks stay cool, while its interior floor can be removed for easy cleaning.

Blackstone Omnivore Flex‑Fold Cart Griddle with Hood, £359.99

Designed for portability, performance, and versatility, this griddle brings outdoor cooking to life wherever you go. Its collapsible Flexfold® leg system and ‘Roll & Go’ design make set‑up and pack‑down a breeze, while the integrated hood protects the cooking surface during travel and helps lock in heat, while dual heat zones let you cook mains and sides at different temperatures at the same time.

Chipolo Loop Tracker, £39

Possibly one of the most stressful and annoying things while camping is misplacing your belongings – and having to turn your tent upside down trying to find them! This Bluetooth tracker – that’s long lasting and has rechargeable batteries – has a loud noise and can be used to find your phone. It uses Apple Find My and Google Find Hub, and is available in coral, honey, navy, charcoal, mint, and chalk.

Lifesystems First Aid Kit, £16.95

Make sure you’re well equipped to deal with injuries with this well-designed kit. It covers a vast range of common ailments, providing essential first aid for treating cuts, grazes, blisters and other minor injuries. It’s even recommended by the Duke of Edinburgh Award.

Sequence Health The Original Pillar, £9.99

Need to take regular medication? Pack Pillar, which keeps your daily medication visible and accessible – and with no stiff hinges or fiddly lids. Instead it opens with a smooth sliding motion. Simply pre-fill it for the week and there’s no second-guessing what you’ve taken.

Light My Fire Fire N Grill, £22.48

Reconnect with the art of fire, with the package that opens the natural ways of fire making. Just add wood and you have all you need for stepping back in time, where sparks, tinder, and skill made eating not only filling but rewarding.

Kuchoma Portable Grill, £219.99

This is a similar size to a disposable BBQ – but one that you can use again and again! It’s 4600 Grams, 2500 W, and can feed up to 10 people. Light and compact, it’s big enough for those ribeye steaks, tand also toasts, and bakes.

TheraTears Hay Fever Relief Drops, £6.75

If you’re a hay fever sufferer the last thing you need is to be miserable with it while camping. These eye drops are the first and only 5-in-1 product that benefits users in five key ways: relieves itching, calms soreness, reduces redness, alleviates watering and reduces inflammation.

Silva Free 900 S Head Torch, £139.99

No more stumbling in pitch black to the campsite loo in the middle of the night! This headlamp features an adjustable headband, along with a powerful battery that’s carried in your pocket. It’s also well worth investing in if your camping trip is more of an adventure, be it adding in a long distance run, mountain climbing or more.

Incognito Mini Hair & Body Wash, £8.99

Insect bites are a downside of camping, unless you’re one of the lucky ones. That’s where this wash comes in, a 2-in-1 shampoo and shower gel that enhances your protection against bites and stings. Made with organic bergamot, tea tree oil and java citronella, it’s also got antiseptic and anti-fungal qualities to camouflage you from insects.

Silva Glow Lantern, £29.99

This pocket-size lantern low features a compact, lightweight design made from recycled plastic, weighs 61 grams (excluding batteries), and is small enough to fit in your pocket. It’s also rain-resistant, equipped with a lock function, and has backlit buttons for easy on/off operation in the dark.

Petromax Tea Kettle, £59.95

This temperature-resistant stainless-steel kettle means your tea can be boiled directly in the embers or while hanging over the fire. The multi-layered bottom provides for optimal heat distribution, and the water boils within no time. The long spout also enables precise pouring without a drop missing your cup.

Silentnight Deep Sleep Ultimate Air Bed, £97.99

The Deep Sleep Ultimate Air Bed offers the perfect sleep surface, with the added practicality of a built-in pump for quick inflation and deflation. That means you can spend more time in the great outdoors and less time setting up and packing away. Sounds good to us.

Silentnight Adult Double Sleeping Bag, £44.99

In addition, Silentnight’s double sleeping bag offers spacious comfort that’s even larger than a standard double mattress, with room for two adults to sleep comfortably. Made from soft, lightweight fabric, it can be fully zipped or opened out and used as a cover for added versatility and ventilation.

Twelve South PowerCapsule, from £49.99

This ultra-slim magnetic power bank delivers Qi2-certified wireless charging for iPhone and Qi2-compatible devices in a refined, pocket-ready design. Built to snap on with secure magnetic alignment, it preserves the natural feel of an iPhone in hand while adding dependable power.

All About Sleep Bamboo Eye Mask, £29.99

Don’t want to wake just because the sun’s up nice and early over the warmer months? This organic mask ensures a much-needed lie-in. It’s made from luxuriously soft bamboo fabric, is breathable and gentle on your skin, and comfortable enough to wear all night.

Ayacucho Magura 10°C Long Sleeping Bag, £75

This offers comfort camping while reducing the impact to the environment. Crafted from 100% recycled fabrics and fillings, it’s designed for convenience, with an anti-snag zipper. It also features temperature-regulating fabrics, ergonomic shapes, and excellent insulation.

Groov-e Thunder Wireless Party Speaker, £15

This boasts a powerful, punchy sound thanks to its 20 watt speaker with deep bass. The pulsing, colourful RGB lights create the perfect party atmosphere, and its rugged design and integrated carry handle means it can be taken wherever the vibes lead. Just watch how loud or late you have it, as you don’t want narky nearby campers!

Mylor Wraparound Sunglasses, £59

These wraparound sunnies include anti-slip temples, a comfortable fit, and streamlined shape that also works for everyday wear. The frame offers increased coverage and protection in bright, exposed conditions. They’ve also polarised UV400 impact-resistant lenses, and are backed by a lifetime warranty.

Darn Tough Men’s Stride Micro Crew Ultra-Lightweight Running Socks, £24

These aren’t just for runners – camping often involves a nice hike or long walk around the country, so this is where these socks come in. A performance fit means no slipping, no bunching, and no blisters, with merino wool drying quickly and moving excess heat and moisture away from feet.

Helly Hansen Men’s Odin Muninn Shell Trousers, £165

These may seem a tad pricey – but there’s a reason. They’re water-resistant for protection in changeable conditions, with a fabric that’s extremely durable, and with a four-way stretch for freedom of movement. There’s even a zippered pocket made for notebooks. Well, you’re going to have forgotten something on your trip and need to pop off to the shops.

NORTIV 8 Men’s Waterproof PRO Hiking Boots, £49.99

Who knows what the weather’s going to do on your trip – so a good pair of waterproof boots are a must. These deliver cushioning and shock absorption, while a waterproof construction keeps feet dry. They also feature a slip-resistant outsole, high-top support, and reinforced protection at the toe and heel.

Toe Zone Dino Adventure Duo Danny Welly and Raptor Umbrella, £29.99

Don’t forget about your little ones – if it rains they’ll need to keep dry (and splash about in those muddy puddles). Besides their co-ordinated design for all dinosaur fans, they’re durable and waterproof, with the wellies having a comfortable fleece lining. They’re also easy to slip on and off.

AA 2026 The Caravan & Camping Guide, £12.15

The UK’s best-selling annual caravan and camping guide, this is perfect whether you prefer a quiet countryside retreat, a family-friendly holiday park, or a luxury glamping escape. Discover over 550 sites, all visited and rated by AA inspectors for quality and facilities, as well as ‘Best-of’ lists from inspectors to inspire your next trip.

Wild Wipe Reusable Wiper, £13.99

If you’ve camped before you’ll understand what it’s like to venture to the loo only to find no toilet roll. This is where the brand-new Wild Wipe comes in: a feminine hygiene essential for wiping away those drips after you’ve been for a number one. Portable, lightweight, and pocket sized, it can be washed by hand with soap, and is antimicrobial for maximum hygiene.

Yanaa Petit Pois Pea & Mint Pouch, £3.50

Putting up tents and the rest of your camping equipment’s hard work – so this is a natural, savoury alternative to sweet sports gels, designed to fuel you after all that blood, sweat and tears (well we hope just sweat). A purée of garden peas, quinoa and extra-virgin olive oil, it’s perfect for that uphill climb, midday sun, or getting back into your rhythm.

Keela Outdoors Insect Shield Blanket, £49.99

This blanket is treated with Insect Shield repellent to help reduce insect bites, a great solution where midges and other biting insects can be a persistent issue during warmer months while camping. It’s long-lasting, too, and designed to remain effective through repeated use and washing.

Vievé Watermelon Protein Water, £12.99 for a pack of six

Thirsty but not in the mood for plain water (and too early for a tipple)? Try Vievé’s range of flavoured waters. Available in seven varieties: Wild Cherry, Strawberry & Rhubarb, Watermelon, Orange & Mango, Peach & Raspberry, Citrus & Apple, and Pineapple & Coconut; each 500ml bottle is infused with 20g collagen protein, and amino acids to bring extra benefits in every sip.

HydroPeptide Solar Defence Body SPF 30, £37.80

Staying safe in the sun (and under clouds – over 90% of UV rays can still pass through cloud and cause sunburn) is essential. Step forward this SPF, providing a high level of water-resistant protection against UVA, UVB and Infrared damage.

More Toddler Meals The Taste & Try Bundle, £10.66

Want to give a toddler something nutritious but that’s easy to pack? Buy this bundle of three freeze dried toddler meals: Sweet Potato & Aubergine Dhal, Five Veg Macaroni, and the Super Green Pasta Stars. Ready in under five minutes, all you need to do is add warm water. All that and with no added sugar, no added salt, and no artificial additives.

POCA Audio PINE Beat Traveller Speaker, £129.95

This high-fidelity, waterproof unit is designed to be repaired, not replaced. Accessible parts and easy fixes mean you never have to throw your speaker away, plus its 30-hour battery packs snap in and out, so the party stops when you say so. It also boasts a versatile Carry Cord and super-strong carabiner.

Faith In Nature Lemon 1L Washing Up Liquid, £6.39

From barbecue platters to alfresco dining, this cuts through grease and leaves dishes sparkling clean. Made with 99% natural origin ingredients and scented with uplifting lemon oil, the concentrated formula delivers effective results with a fresh citrus aroma.

Ottimo 465 Dual Fuel 2-Burner BBQ, £309.99

Gas barbecues are convenient but charcoal gives that traditional smoky flavour – what to do? Why not have both with this dual fuel model? It’s two grills in one, each with a separate lid, so you can use either charcoal or gas – or both together. There’s a generous 40cm-wide cooking area on each side with a warming rack above. Two burners on the gas section ensure even heat for tasty results, and there’s a built-in thermometer so you can track temperature across both zones. What’s more, there’s an additional gas burner to one side that’s perfect for pans of veg, fried onions or sauces, and to the other, a shelf for condiments or plates.

Vonhaus XL American BBQ With Smoker, £144.99

Get the ultimate in barbecue flavour with this American-style grill. It’s perfect for cooking up a bunch of burgers quickly, or go low and slow on tougher meat cuts for tender, melt-in-the-mouth results. The charcoal tray has four heights so you can control the temperature – and the barbecue is also a smoker. Simply add wood chips over the charcoal, close the lid and let them work their magic. This barbecue is made from ceramic-coated cast iron, which locks in heat and cooks evenly. It has a built-in temperature gauge, generous 57cm x 411cm grill, warming rack, and two fold-out shelves for extra prep space. There’s plenty of hooks for all your chef’s tools and even an integrated bottle opener on one side.

Kasai Medium Konro Grill, £424.09

Japanese barbecues, or konro grills, are the latest thing in outdoor cooking. They’re perfect for chicken and caramelising its skin while keeping the meat juicy, and because the charcoal is just inches away, the smoky flavour is infused into the food. They’re not just for poultry though, producing exceptional results with steak, kebabs, veg and fish. The grill has a stainless-steel frame with vermiculite tiles, which are insulating and heat-retaining. It’s good to know these tiles are replaceable, and old ones can be ground down and used as soil conditioner, meaning the barbecue has sustainability built in. You’ll need to use binchotan charcoal for best results, as this achieves higher temperatures and retains heat, so burns longer than regular charcoal. There’s a range of grill sizes available, but this medium barbecue measures 26.5cm D x 54cm W x 21cm H.

Campingaz Sigma 1, £199

When outdoor space is limited, a table top barbecue is the answer. This model forgoes the traditional grill for a plancha design, making it a versatile choice for hot sandwiches, crepes, and sliced fruit, as well as kebabs and burgers. The enamelled cast-iron hot plate is a generous size, easily accommodating several servings at once. The lid also serves both to hold in heat and as a windbreak, making it perfect for summer in the UK. There’s a dishwasher-safe grease collection cup for easy cleaning, efficient electronic ignition, and the whole thing is portable, so it’s perfect for camping trips or days out.

George Foreman 4-burner gas barbecue, £199

When it comes to convenience, you can’t beat a gas barbecue. Like charcoal, it produces those sear marks on steak and chicken everybody expects, and it cooks delicious burgers, sausages and vegetables. The slight trade off regarding smoky flavour is more than made up for by speed of cooking, and not having to wait for the charcoal to come to temperature. There’s a lot to be said for gas when it comes to cleaning up – no ash floating everywhere! This model has four burners for even cooking and is big enough for up to 10 servings. A warming rack sits above the grill – and there’s even a built in bottle opener for the chef’s beer!

Tower Goucho BBQ and Plancha, £399.99

While barbecues are great for cooking meat and larger vegetables, small items tend to fall through the grill, and you can’t be as adventurous with your accompaniments. That’s where this combo model comes in. It’s a regular gas barbecue on one side and a plancha on the other. Both are controlled with six burners and each section has its own lid, so you can use them individually or together. Delicate fish, thinly sliced meat, eggs and fruit can all be cooked on the flat plate, sauces don’t drip through the grill, and there’s no sudden fat flare ups to burn food. Delicious!

The Range BBQ Grill with Automated Rotisserie, £159.99

This charcoal barbecue boasts a generous grill, which is useful when the kids are clamouring for burgers all at once. There’s also a raised rack to keep food warm and unusually, an automatic rotisserie tool. This comes into its own when you’re cooking for a large group, as it’s big enough for a whole chicken or large joint of meat. Use the long shelf at the front of the grill for plates while you’re dishing up, while the side table is ideal for keeping sauces and spices close to hand.

Melitta Optima Timer Filter Coffee Machine, £59.99

Why not club together with a few other school mums by gifting them this machine? All their teacher needs to do is set the required time, fill the water tank, and insert the coffee filter. The machine will then switch on at the programmed time for a jug of freshly-brewed filter coffee ready when needed.

Xigxag Audiobooks, from £8.99

This independent UK audiobook app – that does physical gift cards that they can unwrap – are easy to slip into a gift bag or bundle. The recipient downloads the app and chooses whatever they want to listen to. With no subscription, and no commitment; just a book to enjoy over the summer break.

Laughing Sisters Women Who Changed The World Mug, £12.50

Microwave and dishwasher-safe, this mug is a tribute to the spirit of women who have left an indelible mark on history. It’s a celebration of empowerment, resilience, and the extraordinary contributions of women who have shaped the course of our world.

November: assess decorations and finish shopping.

As Christmas draws closer, resist panic-buying even more presents by going through your list and checking what you have already bought. Anything missing can be picked up in Black Friday offers, and remember charity shops can be treasure troves for gift ideas too!

And before you plump for an entirely new colour scheme for your decorations? Get out what you already have and see what needs to be repaired or refreshed. A coat of paint and fresh greenery can work wonders – and not only is buying less better for the environment, but it is also better for your festive finances too.

December: shop around and relax.

And when December finally arrives? Hopefully you can enjoy the season without worrying about shopping or scrambling for ways to pay for it. The supermarkets will be full of tempting offers, but vow to shop only for what is on your shopping list, and don’t buy everything in one place. Supermarkets have 101 clever ways to get us to do our ‘big shop’ with them but compare prices before you go and remember that the store with 8p vegetables have probably hiked prices on other items in your festive feast. The scrupulous shopper shops around. Here’s to a happy, debt-free 2026 Christmas.