Choosing a New Motorhome
The challenge:
To help my mum and dad find a new motorhome to satisfy their holiday aspirations. My dad says, “It needs to be large enough to be comfortable, and have a little bathroom and kitchen. However we prefer a small van conversion as opposed to the more ‘larger’ traditional models/coachbuilds. We want to be able to get access to smaller roads, for example, we want to be able to drive along mountain lanes in Cumbria without it being too tight or dangerous.”
How can I help?
Well to be honest I’m probably not much help but I wanted to offer my advice and opinion. I know what my mum and dad like and what their requirements are from the many fantastic family holidays that we had when I was younger on sites across the UK and Europe.
The Research
Buying a new motorhome or caravan is a decision that shouldn’t be made lightly. You want to find something that’s right for your own personal needs and requirements and this can vary greatly between person-to-person.
The search for a new motorhome started at the Motorhome Caravan and Camping Show at London Excel and I have to admit it’s probably my fault that they’re looking for a new model. They came up to visit me and offer support when I was on The Caravan Club stand launching Club Together. As members of The Caravan Club and also motorhome owners, it was a show that appealed to them anyway, but they didn’t expect to be so inspired by the new motorhomes on display. That got them thinking that perhaps it was time for an upgrade!
The Search Begins....
At The National Motorcaravan Show (Peterborough) and The Southern Motorcaravan Show (Newbury)
At the Peterborough Show where, despite the rain, they were able to have a good look around and view the vans to see what fitted their requirements. Going to a show is a great way to get advice straight from the dealer as well as view all the different models at the same time. This gives you the opportunity to compare the motorhomes and work out which is most suitable for you.
I went with my parents to the Newbury Show and was so impressed with what I saw. It was fantastic to be able to view the different makes and models and there was also a great atmosphere. I would thoroughly recommend this type of show if you are looking to purchase a new motorhome or just a great day out!
By the end of the day my parents had it narrowed down to three favourites.
And the contenders are.......
VANTAGE MED – based on Fiat Ducato just 5.4m long with a rear lounge/double bed.
MURVI PICCOLO – again the 5.4m long Ducato but with front lounge area which gives 2 belted passenger seats.
AUTOCRUISE JAZZ - as the Piccolo, but cheaper and the lounge area has been raised to cab level enabling the drivers seat to swivel round to the dining table.
At the moment they are perfectly happy to continue to use their current van but are hoping to make the exchange in the very near future. I will keep you updated and tell you all about it!!
Design and Drive is also a fantastic resource for anyone looking to buy a motorhome. Fifty motorhomes are tested and judged in six classes (from van conversion to A-Class). A full report of the award winners were printed in the June issue of The Caravan Club magazine. You can also see here for the winners: Design and Drive 2012
Comments
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I must say the shows are fantastic, the amount and variety of M/homes can be bewildering.... so much choice....to much choice ? well no, but it can be daunting.....narrowed down to three means they are on the home straight....wish em luck
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On our 7th campervan. Now nearing 70 so present vehicle is an Autocruise Rhythm. Considerations, step entry. No need to make beds up with bits. Easy lounging on wet days.At 6M the van is no more difficult to drive than our car. Shorter vans may not have
the large rear lounge and two singles or giant doluble. May not be possible to reach all other facilities when beds made up. Need to consider parking space at home as one of the main advantages is being able to load up and go at very short notice. Gives 38
mpg and over 40 on long motorway trips to Scotland using cruise control.0 -
We've really enjoyed our high top van conversion bought last year, we downsized from a big caravan outfit to a 17 foot 6 inch length van and it's been fine! Hope your Mum & Dad find one that suits them, like all vans I expect they'll step inside and know
it's the one for them. Happy van hunting!0
