10 questions to ask before buying a motorhome (part 1)
Buying a motorhome is an exciting investment, but with so many makes, models, sizes and layouts to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start. In this part of the blog, we’ve answered 5 questions you should ask yourself before buying a motorhome to help you find the right vehicle for your needs.
What driving licence do I need to drive a motorhome?
The licence required depends on the motorhome’s Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM). Most 2-4 berth motorhomes are below 3,500kg and can be driven on a standard Category B licence, which is the same licence used to drive a car.
Larger motorhomes may require a different licence category, so it’s important to understand the size and weight of the motorhome you’re considering before you buy. The rules can also differ depending on when you passed your driving test, so check your driving licence entitlement before choosing a motorhome.
It’s also important to remember that the vehicle’s weight includes passengers, luggage and belongings, making the motorhome’s payload another important consideration.
How do I know which motorhome is right for me?
There isn’t one motorhome that’s right for everyone. It depends on multiple factors, including your lifestyle, how you plan to travel and what you need from your motorhome.
Before buying, ask yourself:
- How often will you use it?
- Will you mainly take weekend trips or longer holidays?
- Will you travel in the UK or abroad?
- Will you stay on campsites or want to be more self-sufficient?
- How many people will regularly travel in it?
- Will you take pets?
- Do you need plenty of storage?
- Are you confident driving a larger vehicle?
Once you know what you need from your motorhome, you can start narrowing down the makes, models, sizes and layouts that are right for you. Our friendly team can also help you explore your options based on your preferences.
How many people can travel in a motorhome?
When looking at motorhomes, you’ll see a berth number and a number of travelling seats. These are not necessarily the same.
The berth number refers to how many people the motorhome can sleep. For example, a four-berth motorhome can accommodate four people overnight. The number of travelling seats refers to how many people can travel in the motorhome while it’s being driven.
Make sure the number of travelling seats and berths meet your needs. If you’re planning to travel with children, it’s also worth considering whether the layout is suitable for child seats.
Don’t forget about storage, either. The more people travelling, the more luggage and belongings you’ll need to accommodate, so make sure there’s enough storage space to keep everything secure and out of the way.
How much does a motorhome cost?
Motorhome prices can vary considerably. Older, smaller models can start from around £20,000, while modern, used motorhomes can range from approximately £40,000 to £70,000. New motorhomes can start from around £60,000, with premium A-Class models often costing £100,000 or more.
Prices can fluctuate over time depending on factors such as demand, availability and specification, so it’s important not to focus solely on the price. Consider what affects the cost of a motorhome, including:
- New or used
- Size and layout
- Manufacturer and model
- Age and mileage
- Engine and transmission
- Specification and optional extras
- Number of berths
- Premium features and interior finishes
The purchase price isn’t the only cost to consider, either. You’ll also need to think about insurance, servicing, road tax, fuel, campsite fees, storage and accessories.
A cheaper motorhome isn’t necessarily the best value if it doesn’t meet your needs.
Should I buy a new or used motorhome?
Both new and used motorhomes have their advantages, so the right choice will depend on your budget and priorities.
New motorhomes can offer the latest models, modern technology, manufacturer’s warranties and the opportunity to choose certain specifications or extras.
Used motorhomes can offer a lower purchase price, less depreciation and the opportunity to get a higher specification for your budget. Buying used doesn’t necessarily mean compromising on quality, particularly when buying from a reputable dealer.
For more information, read our guide comparing new and used motorhomes.
Ready to find your perfect motorhome?
Buying a motorhome is a big decision, but asking the right questions before you buy can help you find a vehicle that suits your lifestyle, budget and travel plans.
Whether you’re looking for your first motorhome or upgrading to something new, the team at The Motorhome Showroom is here to help. Visit our showroom to explore our range of new and used motorhomes, speak to our knowledgeable team and find the right motorhome for your next adventure.