Understanding Motorhome Usage

Before making a hasty purchase it's important to consider how you'll use your motorhome. Are you planning weekend getaways, long touring holidays, full-time living, seasonal trips or family holidays?

How you use your motorhome will influence the model that's right for you. If you plan to go on mini weekend breaks, you might prefer a more compact model, whereas extended travel might need more spacious accommodation.

Layout and Living Space

The layout of a motorhome can really impact your travel experience, therefore it’s important to consider the key features of a motorhome.

If you plan to cook on your motorhome travels, you may wish to have more extensive kitchen facilities, but if you plan to eat out, a more basic set-up may suit. Perhaps you are content staying at touring sites with full shower facilities? If so, a smaller bathroom configuration will be ideal, but if you wish to go to more off-grid locations, it may be a good idea to have all you need in your motorhome.

Then there are the seating options. For those wishing to bask in the outdoors, internal seating may not be as important, but when travelling in wet, windy or cold conditions, you may wish to have places to relax inside.

For the sleeping areas, the number of travellers will dictate the number of beds needed. Some motorhomes have separate bedrooms and others have convertible beds or suspended sleeping areas. Motorhome awnings can also provide additional seating or sleeping space, which can help to increase the size of your accommodation. However, this will take up storage space and take more time when setting up and packing away.

Storage space may be high on your list of priorities, depending on what you hope to pack with you. From bicycles to beach gear and additional outdoor seating, think about what you see as a must-have for your holidays before choosing the storage capabilities of your motorhome.

Berth and Traveller Capacity

Motorhomes are classified by their berth number, which indicates how many people can sleep comfortably.

• 2-berth motorhomes are ideal for couples
• 4-berth motorhomes are perfect for small families
• 6-berth motorhomes are suitable for larger families or group trips

Storage Solutions - Where to Keep Your Motorhome

Storage is a critical consideration of owning a motorhome. There are different storage options available including home driveways, storage facilities, secure outdoor storage sites and indoor storage spaces. Rented space will have a monthly or yearly cost so it's worth factoring this into your overall budget. Consider access, security and potential local restrictions when choosing your storage location.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your motorhome in top condition. Annual servicing and tyre maintenance, as well as cleaning, will all help to take care of your vehicle. Budget for approximately 1-2% of your motorhome's value in annual maintenance costs.

Damp

Damp can be a concern for motorhome owners. Always check for signs of water damage by inspecting seals and windows and looking for discolouration or soft spots. Book professional damp surveys or preventative treatments if in doubt.

Documentation and Service History

When searching for your motorhome the process can be similar to buying other vehicles. Look for a full service history, MOT certificates, previous ownership details, habitation checks and maintenance records. Depending on the age of the motorhome it may be worth looking at the warranty information as well. A good motorhome dealer can help you with this to provide peace of mind. A comprehensive service history can save you thousands in potential repair costs down the line.

Timing Your Purchase

The best time to buy a motorhome is typically outside of the peak motorhoming season. Once travellers finish their trips for the year, this is when they look to sell, part-exchange or upgrade their vehicle. The end of summer (September-October) and the winter months (November-February) is when stock is generally higher. Motorhome shows are a great opportunity to look at and buy new motorhomes, these run during the year. Dealers can sometimes offer deals during these periods to clear existing stock.

Essential Equipment and Accessories

When travelling by motorhome you will also need accessories to get your motorhome up and running safely. Often equipment may come with a motorhome and sometimes you will need to make additional purchases, these will need to be accounted into your overall budget.

Leisure batteries, water pumps, awnings, portable generators, levelling ramps, security equipment, bike racks, ariels, solar panels and cooking equipment are all worth considering.

Budget Considerations

Your budget shouldn’t just cover your motorhome as there are other costs associated with being a motorhome owner.

• Initial purchase price
• Insurance
• Breakdown cover
• Tax
• Maintenance
• Fuel
• Campsite fees
• Accessories and equipment
• Storage costs

The price of a motorhome depends on whether you are buying a new or used motorhome, as well as the size and configuration. As a rough guide entry-level vehicles are between £25,000 - £40,000, mid-range RVs typically cost £40,000 - £70,000 and more luxury models can be £70,000+.

Ready to Start Your Motorhome Journey?

Visit RV Super Centre at our Toddington, Edinburgh or Belfast sales and servicing centres and let our experienced team guide you towards your dream motorhome. Whether you're a first-time buyer or an experienced motorhome owner, we're here to make the whole process enjoyable.

Contact us and we can help with purchases, services and repairs or parts and accessories you may be looking for. You can also download our full motorhome buyers guide for free to help you step-by-step with your motorhome purchase.

Contact the RVSC team about the options available. Contact one of our dealerships in Toddington, Edinburgh, or Belfast to arrange an appointment: 0330 055 2504 or info@rvsupercentre.co.uk