How to Choose a Motorhome for the First Time

Entering into the world of motorhomes and caravans can be intimidating for newcomers, with a whole load of terms and considerations to think about before you can get out onto the open road. But, if you’re pondering how to choose a motorhome, fear not, as in this blog we’ll take you through everything you need to consider before making a purchase.

If you want straightforward advice from industry experts and a range of quality vehicles to kickstart your interest, there is no better place to come than Spinney. With decades of experience buying and selling motorhomes, caravans, campervans and more, we can help you inform your purchase. For motorhomes for sale, explore Spinney today and begin your open-road adventure.

New or used motorhome?

One of your first decisions will be whether you want a new or a used motorhome. Arriving fresh from the manufacturer, new motorhomes are a tempting proposal, filled with the industry’s most cutting-edge technology. In addition, a brand-new motorhome typically maintains its quality for far longer than a used model, requiring less maintenance. If this sounds like your cup of tea, check out our range of new motorhomes for sale online.

On the other hand, if price is more of a concern for you, then you might be interested in used motorhomes. Being considerably cheaper to buy outright than brand-new motorhomes that depreciate far quicker, used models offer great value for money. Choosing to go for a used motorhome will also give you a far broader selection of models, with old and discontinued vehicles being included.

Select from the different types of motorhomes

Once you’ve decided whether you want a used or new vehicle, the next thing you’ll want to do is select the type of motorhome you would like. When choosing the best type for you, it’s important to consider exactly how you will be using your motorhome. Will it be used for weekend trips with you and your partner? Or, how about for family summer holidays? Your intentions should influence your choice between the different classes of motorhomes.

Integrated motorhomes: Large, bus-like vehicles, integrated motorhomes are large and luxurious, perfect for large families or couples that enjoy spacious interiors.

Panel van conversions:  Similar to our range of campervans, panel van conversions are ideal for couples who enjoy short weekend breaks. Compact and fuel-efficient, panel van conversions are ideal for couples who want a small vehicle that can be used for spontaneous getaways.

Coachbuilt motorhomes: Made distinctive by their lip above the driving cab that is often used as an extra sleeping area, coachbuilt motorhomes are smaller than integrated motorhomes but larger than panel van conversions. Their size and space make them ideal for families.

Choose the best layout for you

Not every motorhome is built to the same specification. Some prioritise the communal spaces, maximising the size of the kitchen, while others will make way for a luxurious bedroom at the back of the vehicle. Exactly which layout you choose will depend on how you intend to use the motorhome and who you intend to share it with.

If you’re planning on using the motorhome with your partner, for example, you might be tempted to opt for the ‘French bed’ layout which features a fixed bed at the back of the vehicle that doesn’t have to be folded down after use. On the other hand, large families may wish to go for a bunk bed at the back of the motorhome, optimising the space.

There are many more layouts available with a range of varying berths and prioritised spaces, including ‘Island bed’, ‘Front lounge’ and ‘Rear lounge’.

Top tips for how to choose a motorhome

Choosing the best motorhome for you depends on a number of preferences, but there are also several considerations you will want to keep in mind when deciding on your purchase. The following tips, tricks and things to remember when buying a motorhome will help you save money and time.

Motorhome insurance and tax: Just like car insurance, motorhome insurance is a legal requirement. Often forgotten by new owners, motorhome insurance can cost more than £500 per year, so it’s important that you incorporate it as part of your total budget. Motorhome tax should also be considered, with vehicle tax rates being decided by revenue weight.

Make sure you have the correct licence: Not all motorhomes can be driven with a normal car licence. Making sure you have the correct licence for a motorhome is therefore imperative. Maximum authorised mass (MAM) is one of the main factors that determines whether you need a new licence. If a vehicle is over 3.5 tonnes then you will have to carry out a category C1 or category C licence test.

Motorhome finance: Remember, you don’t have to shell out a bulk of cash when purchasing your new motorhome. Using motorhome finance is an efficient way to spread out the cost of a new vehicle over a long period of time, allowing you to pay off your purchase with manageable monthly payments.

Test drive: If you’re new to the world of motorhomes and aren’t sure which type is best for you, using services like our try-before-you-buy scheme will help you inform your purchase. Our service allows you to try different models through our partner rental company and gain a feel for how your future motorhome might handle and be like to live in.

The best time to buy: Knowing the best time to buy a new or used motorhome is key to getting the best deal possible. In general, the ideal time to secure your motorhome is after the summer season has finished and private owners are looking to sell their current models, or dealerships are wanting to shift their stock ahead of the arrival of new models the following spring.

Still can’t decide how to choose a motorhome

Ready to purchase your new motorhome? Or, are you looking for more advice before you make your final decision? Contact Spinney today to gain insight from our expert team of specialists who can inform your purchase. Offering quality models from such established brands as Adria, Auto-Trail, Bailey, Swift, Coachman, Elddis and Roller Team, across our range of branches, at Spinney we have something for everyone.

To change how you holiday and kickstart your travels on the open road, contact Spinney today.