Motorhome Q&A

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Why motorcaravanning?
Motorcaravanning is probably the ultimate in touring freedom. Driving is no problem - it's just like driving a big car, but without the instability there can be with a caravan on the back. There's very little setting up when you arrive on site, and it's just as easy to pack up and move on.

Isn't it expensive?
The initial outlay can be quite high, with new motorhomes costing £20,000 upwards. Even a used motorhome in good condition can cost from £15,000. However, motorhomes do tend to hold their value better than cars.

What size motorhome will I need?
Motorhomes are available in 2, 4 or 6 berth models to suite most families. The bigger the 'van, the more expensive, more difficult to park, more difficult to drive etc. On the other hand you may find a small two-berth motorhome too claustrophobic. Even if there's only yourself, or self and partner, there may be times you want to take friends or family away with you.

Fit for purpose?
For long distance, long-term touring, the bigger the 'van the better. If you're more likely only to use it for weekends and the occasional week in the UK then a smaller 'van with less storage might suffice. Also consider what time of year you are mostly going to tour - and whether your motorhome needs to be fully winterised and centrally heared.

Can I use any caravan park?
If a park takes touring caravans it will almost certainly offer motorhome pitches too. However, there may be a length restriction, so if you have a particularly long vehicle, it would be best to check with the park in advance.

Can anyone drive a motorhome?
If you are licenced to drive a car you can drive a motorhome up to 3500kg. Check your driving licence or contact the DVLA for more details.

How do I know if a 'van is stolen?
HPI can tell you if any registered vehicle is stolen, written off or subject to outstanding finance payments. Visit the www.hpicheck.com website, or phone 01722 422422 to buy a report on a particular vehicle. If you buy from a reputable dealer they should carry out a HPI check on a vehicle before putting it on sale.

Do I need special insurance?
Your car's insurer may offer cover for motorhomes, but you may be better off using a specialist motorhome insurance company. Most of the best UK agents are listed in our motorhome insurance directory

Where can I find out more?

Auto Sleepers
Typical range of motorhome sizes and types from Auto Sleepers.
FORUMS
There are several good motorhome magazines available, mostly with websites. Try a search for 'motorhome' in the UK version of www.google.co.uk. There are also some excellent motorhome forums where you can ask for help or advice.		 SHOWS
The major shows will have a vast range of motorhomes on display, covering every size, type and option. This is the perfect place to explore what's on offer and fits your needs. To find when the next and nearest show is, visit our Shows Directory 		WEBSITES
There are websites covering every aspect of motorhoming - parks directory, clubs, chat, magazines, maintenance, tour guides and so on. Use a good search engine like Google or the links directories on motorhome websites Motorhome Links 		MOTORHOME HIRE
Hiring is ideal if you are uncertain of the size of motorhome you need, or only need a motorhome one or two weeks a year. "Try before you buy" is always a good idea. There are many hire companies across the UK (and further afield), as you will see in our Motorhome Hirer Directory

Practical Motorhome Magazine

A good way to pick up information and knowledge about a hobby is by reading a dedicated magazine. For lots of information from motorhome experts, try the UK's fastest growing motorhome magazine, Practical Motorhome. You can get a taste of the magazine's content on its dedicated website, www.practicalmotorhome.com