Author: Globaliser

Sometimes while digging through old documents you come across something that makes you smile with pride all over again. That happened to us recently, when we stumbled upon a special story from 2009: at the time, Holtkamper donated a Flyer to the Jane Goodall Institute, which was converted into a mobile animal clinic for injured chimpanzees in Uganda.

The Holtkamper Flyer was renamed the Folding Field Shelter (FFS) and equipped with, among other things, an operating table, mosquito netting, a refrigerator for medicine and even a specially designed mobile operating table. All for one purpose: to support the work of local veterinarians in treating and vaccinating wild chimpanzees, often deep in the African jungle.

In this video from 2009, Jelle Holtkamp explains how the Flyer was created and laid out. Jelle explains that there is also a refrigerator for vaccinations for local people, because by supporting local people, the Jane Goodall Foundation hopes that there will be less poaching as well. Jane Goodall herself explains why the folding trailer is going to make a huge difference in the jungle.

The idea came from Selina Holtkamp, daughter of founder Bert Holtkamp and herself a long-time volunteer at the Jane Goodall Institute. She managed to bring together her passion for camping and animal protection in a unique way. She personally delivered the FFS to Uganda, a journey that was anything but easy, due in part to challenges at customs. But eventually the folding trailer arrived at its destination and went into use immediately.

Does the Holtkamper FFS still have a role in the field?

Over 15 years later, we wonder: is the Flyer still in use? Is the mobile clinic still part of the Jane Goodall Institute’s important work in Uganda?

We have since contacted the institute to find out how the Holtkamper FFS has fared in recent years. As soon as we receive a response, we will of course share it with you.

To be continued…

A clean tent is not only pleasant to look at and lie under, it also makes the tent fabric last longer. Especially after a vacation full of adventure, rain and nature, stains can develop on the canvas. In this blog, you’ll learn how to safely and effectively remove stains from both uncoated and coated TenCate tent fabric, and what to absolutely avoid.

Coated vs uncoated tent fabric

Holtkamper folding trailers come standard with uncoated TenCate tent fabric, a top-quality fabric made in the Netherlands. This breathable fabric ensures a comfortable indoor climate, prevents condensation, and contributes to the unique camping experience that Holtkamper offers.

In the past, Holtkampers were also manufactured using coated or sealed TenCate tent fabric, also known as polycotton. That is why we will cover both types in this blog post.

The difference between coated and uncoated tent fabric is easy to feel: coated fabric feels a bit stiffer and smoother, somewhat like plastic. The coating makes it waterproof, but it doesn’t breathe as well. Uncoated fabric, on the other hand, feels more natural, is more flexible, and offers an excellent balance between waterproofing and breathability. This makes it perfect for comfortable days and nights while camping.

Removing stains from uncoated TenCate tent fabric

Uncoated cloth is more fragile and difficult to clean than coated cloth. Therefore, prevention is always better than cure.

The basics

• Never use soap-based agents.
• Use a soft brush, not a sponge.
• Never brush hard, as this may damage the cloth or color.
• Gently brushing is usually enough to remove light dirt.
• In most cases, the sun takes care of the rest!
• If you use water, let the cloth dry thoroughly first; otherwise, you might actually rub the stain into the cloth.

Common stains

Bird droppings and berries

Let the stain dry completely and then gently scratch it off with a spoon, for example. Sunlight will cause the stains to fade over time.

Resin or candle wax

Allow to solidify first and then carefully scrape off. You can possibly use a special resin remover, for example from drKeddo. Note that this is only suitable for uncoated cloth.

Algae and mold

For uncoated cloth, do not use chlorine, which can cause discoloration. Instead:

• Mix cleaning vinegar with water in a ratio of 1 to 1.
• Apply the mixture with a soft brush and do not scrub hard.
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Heavily soiled cloth

Use only agents specifically for uncoated tent fabric. TenCate-tested brands include Isaclean, Deva, 123products, HG and Ultramar.

Note: Use these agents sparingly and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use.

After intensive cleaning, it is important to re-impregnate the fabric for continued protection.

Tip: Is the canvas heavily soiled? Then consider having your tent professionally cleaned through a reputable tent cleaning and maintenance specialist.

Stain removal on coated TenCate tent fabric

Coated tent fabric is easier to clean, but also requires careful handling.

The basics

• Never use soap-based agents.
• Preferably remove stains immediately with lukewarm water and a soft cloth or brush.

Common stains

Bird droppings, berries and coffee

Remove these stains as soon as possible with lukewarm water.

Resin or candle wax

Allow to solidify and gently scrape off with a spoon.

Note: Do not use resin removers on coated cloth, they can damage the coating.

Algae and mold

• Use a light chlorine solution of 1 part chlorine to 10 parts water.
• Let this soak in briefly.
• Brush gently.
• Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water.

Note: Do not use cleaning vinegar on coated canvas. This is only suitable for uncoated tent cloth.

Heavily soiled cloth

Use only cleaners specifically designed for coated tent fabric. TenCate-tested agents include Isaclean, Deva, 123products, HG and Ultramar. When using cleaning agents, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use. After cleaning coated fabric with these agents, re-impregnation may be necessary.

Please note that frequent use of cleaning agents can eventually affect the strength of the tent fabric. Therefore, use these agents in moderation and always consult a specialist when in doubt.

Is the canvas heavily soiled? Then you can also choose to have the entire tent professionally cleaned. Several specialists offer appropriate solutions for this.

Mold removal: here’s how to do it

Mold is usually caused by moisture and inadequate ventilation. Fortunately, it is easy to deal with.

Algae and mold can usually be removed with a light chlorine solution in the ratio of 1 to 10 of chlorine and water. If this does not work sufficiently, use a suitable cleaning agent according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Does your tent have uncoated TenCate canvas? Then follow the instructions under the section on cleaning uncoated cloth. Note that re-impregnation is always necessary after cleaning uncoated cloth.

In conclusion

Proper maintenance keeps your Holtkamper tent canvas beautiful and strong, season after season. Are you unsure about which agent to use best? Or is the canvas seriously soiled? Feel free to contact one of our specialists. We will be happy to think along with you.

The vacation begins right in the driveway. At least, if you are well prepared. Whether you are setting off with a Holtkamper for the first time or are an experienced trailer tent camper: with this checklist, you will hit the road with peace of mind and a safe feeling.

1. Before departure – Technical inspection

A good trip starts with a thorough check. Always run through these technical points before you leave:

✔️ Tire check

• Tire pressure at the right level? At Holtkamper it is usually 2.4 bar (also at the spare tire).
• Profile still at least 2 mm?
• No drought cracks or damage visible?

✔️ Lighting works properly
Check brake lights, turn signals, city lights and license plate lights.

✔️ Overrun brake and hand brake function properly
Test operation and check for wear.

✔️ Clutch and nose wheel in order

• The correct nose weight is between 50 and 75 kg (depending on the car).
• Nose wheel up and properly secured.

✔️Wielbouten tighten securely (using a torque wrench if necessary).

✔️Vergeet don’t attach the license plate!

 

2. Documents and papers

Make sure you have all the necessary papers with you; this will prevent hassles along the way.

✔️ Driving License
For driving a Holtkamper, driving license B is sufficient, due to its low weight.

✔️ License plate and NL sticker

• Does your folding trailer have a maximum authorized mass of 750 kg or less? Then it should have a white license plate with the same number as your car.
• For travel outside the Netherlands, it is necessary to use distinguishing mark (NL sticker). A NL sticker may not be stuck on this license plate but must be clearly visible on the back of the trailer tent

✔️ Green Card
Certificate of insurance (including for the trailer).

✔️ Hazard triangle and safety vests
Mandatory in many countries – better with than without!

✔️ Camping card (CCI)
The ANWB Camping Card or Camping Card International is convenient and often offers discounts.

✔️ Travel insurance with roadside assistance
Make sure you also have coverage for the trailer.

✔️ Type approval
The trailer tent must have a type approval. This is always regulated at the European level by the manufacturer. Therefore, check that this is clearly visible on the type plate on the drawbar. This plate must have the following information:

• Manufacturer’s name
• Type approval number with vehicle identification number
• Technically maximum permissible maximum mass and axle loads

 

3. Cargo and Loading

• Load evenly distributed, heavy stuff above axle and as low as possible, This provides a lower center of gravity and more stability while driving. Proper distribution of the weight affects the nose weight and handling of the trailer tent.
• Do not exceed maximum authorized mass (750kg)
• Nothing loose in the car that can slide while driving. For example, put tea towels on the cutlery drawer in the kitchen so it doesn’t rattle and everything stays neat and tidy while driving.

 

4. Attach

✔️ Plug connected
13- or 7-pin plug properly plugged in, cable not hanging over ground.

✔️ Clutch locked
Safety cable properly attached and manually check that the clutch is secure.

✔️ Handbrake released and support legs raised
Also fully screw in and secure the herring legs.

✔️ Mirrors adjusted
Ensure good visibility of the trailer on both sides.

 

5. Driving a folding trailer

✔️ Adjust driving behavior

• Adhere to the speed limits for trailers (often max 90 km/h, sometimes higher on highways).
• Keep more distance from predecessors.
• Be alert in high winds and overtaking trucks.
• Brake gradually – driving slowly is safer as well as more comfortable.
• Take frequent breaks to check tires, clutch and load.

 

In conclusion: with this checklist you will be all set for a carefree drive to your vacation destination. Take the time for proper preparation and then enjoy the adventure all the more – with the freedom and comfort of your Holtkamper.

Safe journey! 🌍⛺

At Holtkamper we don’t just talk about camping, we do it ourselves. Many of our colleagues have (had) a Holtkamper trailer tent themselves. Some still use it every year, others have experienced unforgettable vacations with the family. Patrick for example, who goes out with his Aero almost every free weekend. Service and planning employee Sarina is now on her second Holtkamper and Gert-Jan recently gave his wife a refurbished Aero!

We were curious: what do our colleagues themselves like most about camping with a trailer tent? So we asked around within the team and based on their answers we came up with the top 10 below.

Wondering why we (and SO many campers with us) are such fans of the trailer tent? Read along!

1. More comfort
A trailer tent often has comfortable beds with real mattresses and a slatted base, a solid floor and better protection from rain and cold than a regular tent. You sleep higher off the ground, which is more comfortable and drier. No more inflatable mats or cold nights! It almost feels like home, but in the middle of nature.

2. Lighter and more agile
Folding trailers are much lighter than caravans and therefore easier to tow, even with a smaller, hybrid or electric car. They are also lower, which saves fuel and makes driving less stressful. You’ll notice this right away at a mountain pass or sharp turn. Another advantage of towing a folding trailer is that you do not need extra exterior mirrors and you can see over the trailer through your rearview mirror.

3. More spacious than a tent
What seems compact at first glance often turns out to be a veritable camping palace once set up. Folding trailers often offer a surprising amount of living space thanks to fold-out sections and optional awnings or awnings. Some models have separate sleeping compartments, a spacious awning and even a kitchen.

4. Faster setup
The days of endlessly lugging poles, strings and pegs are over. Modern folding trailers are designed to be set up in 15 to 30 minutes, sometimes even faster. So more time for a drink or a game.

5. More storage space while traveling
You can carry many items in the folding trailer itself, such as chairs, tables, kitchen utensils and bedding. This keeps your car more spacious and organized. In some models, the kitchen is also accessible on the road. Pretty convenient if the kids suddenly feel like a sandwich.

6. Real camping feeling
Unlike a caravan, you still sleep in tent canvas. You can hear the birds, smell nature and fully experience the outdoors. Even the raindrops can provide a pleasant sound without being uncomfortable.

7. Flexible and compact storage
A trailer tent often just fits in a garage or under a carport, unlike a caravan that often requires separate storage. If you do need storage, you often need less square footage, which in turn saves you money.

8. Relatively affordable
Folding trailers are generally a lot cheaper than caravans, both in purchase, insurance and maintenance. So a good middle ground between a tent and caravan. Ideal if you are looking for just a bit more comfort, but without the price tag of a caravan.

9. Suitable for large and small families
Many folding trailers can be completely customized with additional sleeping compartments or extension options. Family expansion? No problem, an additional children’s tent can be attached in no time. ideal for large and small families with children. Everyone has their own place.

10. Longer camping season than with a tent
Because of the better insulation and elevated sleeping areas, you can also enjoy camping in less weather or in the early and late season. Some folding trailers like Holtkamper’s models also often have a double roof giving you even higher insulation value, this provides a more pleasant indoor feeling and more warmth than in a regular tent.

Why choose a Holtkamper trailer tent?

As you read, camping with a trailer tent is freedom, comfort and adventure all in one. And if you really want carefree enjoyment, choose the best of the best: Holtkamper.

A Holtkamper trailer tent combines the real outdoor feeling of camping with the comforts of home. No hassle with pegs or awkward tent poles, because with the patented Windforce system your trailer tent is up in no time. Your beds are already made, your stuff is safely stored, and while your neighbors are still struggling with their tent cloth, you are already sitting under your awning with a cup of coffee.

With a Holtkamper you enjoy:

• Comfortable sleeping areas with thick mattresses, high and dry.
• Ample storage options, even while driving: your entire camping equipment goes along effortlessly.
• Innovative ventilation and insulation, keeping you warm and dry even in the early and late season.
• A light and aerodynamic design that will pull you effortlessly even with a smaller car.
• Natural experience thanks to the tent canvas: you smell the forest, hear the birds and feel the freedom, without compromising on convenience.

Holtkamper trailer tents are built for adventurers who want just that little bit more. Durable, well thought-out and 100% Dutch craftsmanship, for families, couples and solo travelers who appreciate quality.

Whether you are heading for the French Alps, exploring the Veluwe or simply want to escape from the hustle and bustle for a long weekend: with Holtkamper, your vacation begins as soon as you drive down the driveway.

Holtkamper. The convenience of luxury. The sense of adventure.

In the workshop, we regularly see damage or nasty stains to the tent canvas of the Children’s Tent, which is caused by not properly folding and unfolding the Children’s Tent.

Herewith a short video on how to set up and fold the children’s tent correctly.

Key points of interest when unfolding:

• If a bicycle carrier is mounted on the drawbar it must be folded forward
• Place the soft top or a rug over the bike rack or drawbar. This keeps the tent fabric clean and prevents the children’s tent from getting stuck behind something
• Unfold the children’s tent and place it over the tow bar or bike rack
• Check that the children’s tent does not get caught behind anything while inflating with the WindForce system
• Once the entire tent is inflated and the frame parts of the main tent are secured, we first tighten the corner points of the groundsheet. Also, the corner points of the groundsheet of the children’s tent
• For an XL Children’s tent, the additional frame parts can now be attached
• The children’s tent M has no additional frame parts and can be used right away

 

Key points to consider when folding:

• First, remove all pegs
• Attach the groundsheet of the main tent to the groundsheet clickers.
• Now grab the left vertex of the children’s tent and pull it toward the main frame
• This prevents the canvas of the children’s tent from being sucked between the frame parts as much as possible during folding with the windforce system
• When everything is completely folded, we first fold the groundsheet of the main tent neatly. bisonyl comes on bisonyl
• Finally, the children’s tent is folded back over the wagon. Now it is ready for the next camping adventures.

A used Holtkamper can be a great investment for campers looking for quality and comfort, but at a softer price. Still, it’s important to be well prepared when considering a used camper. In this blog, we list all the important points for you in a handy checklist – from the tent canvas to the undercarriage, from accessories to paperwork – so you know exactly what to look for when buying a used Holtkamper trailer tent.

 

Occasion Holtkampers at our Concept Store

Did you know that you can also go to our own Holtkamper Concept Store for carefully selected used vehicles? These second-hand Holtkampers have been thoroughly checked by our specialists and are only offered for sale when they fully meet our quality standards. So you can be sure that you can hit the road safely and with confidence.

Do you have your eye on a used Holtkamper elsewhere? Then we strongly recommend having the trailer tent checked with us during a service. This way we can check whether everything is technically in order and prevent any surprises during your first camping trip.

 

Checklist: what should you pay attention to when buying a Holtkamper occasion?

General state

• Tent fabric: Check for tears, wear, holes or discoloration. Also look for mold or moisture spots, especially at seams and corners. 
• Zippers: Do they work smoothly, are they complete and is the stitching still secure? 
• Camping equipment: Are pegs, poles and guy ropes complete, straight and undamaged? 
• Age: Based on the chassis number, we can find out the exact age for you. 

Frame and base

• Rust: Inspect the chassis for rust, especially at the welds 
• Handbrake: Check operation of handbrake. Do the wheels lock when the brake is applied and do the wheels roll freely when the handbrake is taken off? 
• Clutch: Is the mechanism working properly and is there no play on it? 
• Tires: Enough tread, no drought cracks? Also check the DOT code (older than 6 years = replaced). 
• Wheel and bearings: Do the wheels rotate smoothly and without side noises? 
• Parts availability: Please note with really older models that parts may no longer be available. This can be checked with Holtkamper based on the chassis number. 

Floor and superstructure

• Floor: Check the floor for wood rot or weak spots. Especially in older models (such as the Flyer or Spacer), it is important to check for this, especially in the corners and near the wheel wells. 
• Tent poles and hinges: Sturdy, not bent, does the folding mechanism work? 
• Unfolding system: Check the closed and open positions: everything fold out and fixed properly? 

Accessories and equipment

• What’s included? Think: awning, canopy, kitchenette, mattress, groundsheet, etc. 
• Kitchen: Check that the kitchen is complete and working properly (faucets, stove, pump). 
• Gas hose: Check date. Quick disconnect = replace after 10 years. Hose clamp = replace after 4 years. We can check this for you and test for leaks. 
• Electrical connections: Do lights and other electrics (such as refrigerator) work? 
• Papers: Are the original manual and documentation present? 
• Taillights: Do they work when the trailer tent is hitched to the car? 

Papers and history

• Maintenance: Ask for the maintenance booklet or separate maintenance receipts. 
• Registration certificate: Check whether the registration certificate is present (if the trailer tent is over 750 kg) 
• Background: Ask about reason for sale and any major repairs or known defects. 

Practicalities for you personally

• Weight & Driver’s License: Does the weight fit your car and your driver’s license? 
• Ease of set-up: Does the system fit your preferences (quick vs. extensive setup)? 
• Storage space: Do you have enough space in the garage or storage area? 
• Sleeping arrangements: How much sleeping space do you need? Note the number of people it can accommodate. 
• User Instruction: Ask for instructions on setting up if you are new to the Holtkamper.

 

Having doubts? Let us look with you.

Whether you want to buy a top occasion through our Concept Store, or you have your eye on a trailer tent through Marketplace, a private person or another dealer, we are happy to help you so that your experience with Holtkamper will be a success. A service at Holtkamper gives you security and prevents unexpected costs.

Do you really want to be sure of a good purchase? Then we recommend that you buy your Holtkamper used car directly from us. In our showroom you will regularly find carefully checked models, on which we also give a year’s guarantee. This way you will set off with peace of mind and full of confidence. Simply schedule an appointment via our website or contact us.

Good preparation is half the battle – this is how your camping adventure begins carefree and confidently.