Why breakdowns are better in a camper van

Becoming experienced in this matter, I can wholeheartedly say camper vans are great for breakdowns because:

1. You inevitably carry a full tool box so can at least have a look and try to get the thing working with a few bangs and bodges - see below:

(another) roadside repair

2. You can pop the top and put a brew on
3. You have games, cards, books and food in case the rescue service takes its time
4. As you generally travel on back country roads, you have probably broken down in quite a pretty spot, so you can go for a wander and pick some apples whilst you wait for the recovery van (yes, this has happened to us!)

My most memorable breakdown in the van was on our way back from Norfolk one bank holiday (we visit Norfolk a lot as my Irish family have an annual get together there).  The Husband was driving and as we pulled off a roundabout at our turning he said quite calmly..."Right. The brakes have just gone...".

My reaction? "WHAT? THE BRAKES HAVE GONE? OH MY GOD, OH GOD, SH*T!! THE BRAKES HAVE GOOOOONE!"

Whilst I was having a meltdown and bracing myself, he was firstly trying to pump some life into the brakes and when that failed he went down the gears and guided us to a very elegant and gentle stop in a layby.  I had just about finished hyperventilating to notice we had come to a halt.  We ended up having our tea in the layby and not even noticing that the AA man had arrived; until he popped his head in the window to say hello!

Sadly there was no getting Trevor going so this is how our trip ended that evening:

Boooo. But at least we saved some petrol money....