Newcomers to motorhomes often ask: “What is the best or perfect motorhome?” My answer is, there isn’t one – they all involve compromises.
Let’s start by thinking about the various sizes of motorhomes. Consider a micro-camper – they’re just the job for weekend breaks, particularly for outdoorsy types who like hillwalking and sports like windsurfing, and just need somewhere to sleep and do basic food preparation. But they are definitely lacking in living space.
Now, consider a 40-foot American RV with triple slide-outs giving you masses of living space and with all of those motorhome upgrades already fitted. The downsides are that you need an HGV licence to drive it, its size will restrict the places you can get to somewhat, and it will drink fuel at an alarming rate.
While owners of small campervans will probably be able to park their ‘van on their drive at home, the RV will almost certainly need to be put into a storage compound (unless you happen to live on a country estate).
Even the best motorhome involves compromises; some need the beds to be made up from daytime seating, while others lose out on living space by having fixed beds. The point is that only you can decide what compromises you are prepared to make.
Also, bear in mind that what works for you now may not suit you in a few years. As an example of this, our previous motorhome was a self-converted Ducato panel van with permanent transverse bed. It was great but eventually became unsuitable due to my wife having severe arthritis in both knees, which eventually made it almost impossible for her to get in or out of the bed. So we changed to our current motorhome, which has twin single low-level beds, and currently this suits us really well.
Another question I get is: “What is the best base vehicle?” Again, it depends on your personal preferences. Some people, myself included, prefer the firmer ride of the Fiat Ducato, while others prefer the softer suspension of the Mercedes Sprinter; some find the cab seats of the Ducato too firm and uncomfortable, while others prefer the seats in the Ford Transit. If you’re considering bigger motorhomes, your choices could be between Iveco Daily, larger Sprinters or even MAN if you’re looking at 7.5-tonne-plus vehicles.
The ‘perfect’ motorhome doesn’t really exist; they all involve compromises based entirely on your own preferences, desires and needs.
If you’re looking for a motorhome, either as a newcomer to the lifestyle or as an existing motorhomer, I’d suggest you write three lists: must-have items; would-like items; and do not want items. Then look at as many motorhomes as you can to find one that fits as closely as possible to your lists.
For those of you who are looking for a ‘van, a good place to look could be at the upcoming Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show, where many of the biggest names in the industry will be displaying their latest releases.
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