Leisure vehicles are beloved by thousands of people because of the freedom they offer, giving us the opportunity to enjoy bespoke journeys that are tailored to us and our needs. Because we all want something different from our holidays, it stands to reason that the vehicles we can choose from serve different purposes and have their own unique features. There is no one “best” option, as simply plumping for the biggest and most expensive doesn’t automatically mean that its features will align with what you’re looking for.
So, if you’re a complete newbie to this lifestyle, it’s vital to do your research to learn whether a campervan, motorhome or a caravan is for you. After all, it is a big purchase that you understandably want to get right. To help reduce any confusion or stress, this blog reviews the top points to consider when making your choice.
Budget
There are both basic and luxury versions available across all types, as well as second-hand options, so you won’t be short of options whether you’re willing to spend a little or a lot. However, a good rule of thumb is that larger vehicles like motorhomes and caravans, which offer more space and utilities, are more expensive than campervans. They also have a higher fuel consumption, so bear this in mind when setting your price limits.
Party size
Remember to take into account who will be travelling with you. For families with children and dog(s), interior space is paramount, so motorhomes (especially coachbuilt) and caravans which offer separate berths for sleeping are the best choice. Campervans do have room for Duvalay mattresses and sleeping bags for one or two people to sleep in comfort, but they’re not as ideal for bigger groups.
If you’re bringing along more people, it’s not just sleeping arrangements that you need to bear in mind. When travelling around Britain, you can never rely on the weather, so you may want to choose a motorhome or caravan with more seating options and room for rainy-day indoor games to keep everyone entertained.
Destination
For those who travel light to keep things simple, sticking to weekend jaunts that are closer to home, a campervan is a fantastic option. Campsites have facilities you can make use of, and it’s likely you won’t be spending much time “at home”, as it were. But if you often venture further around Britain or even into Europe, it can be wise to invest in a larger motorhome with space for a kitchen and washroom so you can enjoy some home comforts on longer journeys, even at a higher price point.
Activities
It’s no surprise that a love of outdoor pursuits and sports often goes hand in hand with an interest in leisure vehicles, so your hobbies in that arena will play a big part in your choice. Caravans, campervans and motorhomes can all accommodate exterior racks for bikes and other equipment, but some larger options also offer clever internal storage solutions that are a must for any essential accessories.
On the road
Lots of people favour a campervan for its more compact size, since anyone can drive and park one confidently, even on narrower country roads. However, just as with a motorhome, you can’t stay settled in – nipping to the shops or a shorter day trip will involve taking everything with you. Caravans have the edge here, since you can just unhitch your car from home base, but they do take up more space, require more complex set-up and towing requires knowledge and experience.
