A Guide To Choosing The Best Motorhome Layout For You
Choosing the right motorhome layout can make all the difference between a trip that feels effortless and one that feels cramped or inconvenient. The best layout isn’t about what looks good on paper – it’s about who you’re travelling with and how you’ll actually use the space day to day. From where you sleep and relax to how much storage you have for all the essentials, the layout has a huge impact on comfort on the road. This guide breaks down the most common motorhome layouts and highlights the best options for different group sizes, helping you find what works for you.
What are some common motorhome layouts?
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Fixed rear bed
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Drop-down bed
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Overcab bed
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Twin single beds
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Rear lounge
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End washroom
Key things to consider
Number of belted seats
How many passengers will you be travelling with, and does the motorhome match the number of travel seats?
Vehicle length and width
Will the motorhome be easy to drive, access campsites, and fit on ferries or pitches?
Weather practicality
Will the layout feel comfortable during wet or colder weather when you’re spending more time indoors?
Storage and payload
Do you have enough storage for luggage, outdoor furniture, bikes, and essentials while staying within weight limits?
Kitchen usability
Is there enough worktop space and storage to prepare meals while touring rural areas or staying off-grid?
Bathroom layout
Does the motorhome offer a separate shower and enough space for daily use on longer trips?
Daytime living space
Will the lounge and seating area be comfortable for everyone during the day?
Bed setup and access
Are the beds easy to access and quick to make up?
Privacy needs
Does the layout offer enough separation between sleeping, living, and washroom areas for your group?
What are the best motorhome layouts for couples?
When you’re touring as a couple, it’s all about comfort and keeping things easy. Layouts with a rear fixed bed or island bed are a firm favourite because you can leave the bed made up and still have plenty of space to relax during the day.
Twin single beds are another popular option, especially if you like a bit more personal space at night and plenty of storage underneath for longer trips.
Some couples also love rear lounge motorhomes, which give you a big, comfy seating area that’s perfect for putting your feet up on a campsite – especially when the British weather isn’t playing ball!
A decent kitchen and a separate shower can make a huge difference too, particularly if you’re planning to tour for more than just a weekend.
What are the best motorhome layouts for families?
Travelling with family means finding a layout that works just as well during the day as it does at night. In the UK, overcab motorhomes are still one of the most practical choices, thanks to the extra permanent bed that doesn’t eat into your living space.
Drop-down beds are another great option, giving kids a comfy place to sleep while keeping the lounge free for meals and downtime. Fixed bunk beds are ideal for younger children, as they can often be left made up, saving time and hassle.
When choosing a family-friendly layout, it’s worth checking you’ve got enough belted seats, plenty of storage for clothes and toys, and enough space for everyone to move around comfortably – especially on rainy days or during busy mornings.
What are the best motorhome layouts for more than 5 people?
Once you’re travelling with five or more people, layout really matters. Larger overcab motorhomes are usually the best bet, as they offer multiple fixed sleeping areas like an overcab bed, bunk beds, and extra beds made from the lounge. This means less time spent setting up beds and more time enjoying the trip. Layouts with separate living and sleeping areas can make life much easier too, especially when everyone’s trying to get ready at the same time.
A bigger kitchen and fridge are a big plus for group meals, along with plenty of storage and a healthy payload to keep you within UK weight limits. With the right layout, even larger groups can travel comfortably without it feeling chaotic.
Take your time to find the right fit
There’s no single “best” motorhome layout – it really comes down to how you travel and who you’re travelling with. What works perfectly for a couple on long touring holidays might feel completely wrong for a family or a larger group. The key is to think about how you’ll use the space day to day, not just where everyone sleeps at night.
If you can, it’s always worth stepping inside a few different motorhomes, imagining a rainy afternoon or a busy morning, and seeing what feels right for you. Get the layout right, and everything else tends to fall into place. Visit our showroom and our friendly team will be happy to show you around and help you find a motorhome layout that suits you.
