Exploring motorhome travel or trips in the UK opens up a realm of freedom and adventure that allow you to embrace life on the open road while having an experience close to living at home. Whether you’re seeking a trial run before committing to a motorhome purchase or aiming for an affordable and convenient holiday, seeking to rent a motorhome in the UK could be a great idea for an enriching travel experience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of hiring a motorhome, from selecting the perfect vehicle to optimizing your rental experience.
Selecting Your Ideal Motorhome Rental
The motorhome rental landscape in the UK encompasses a variety of choices, typically offering both campervans and motorhomes. Understanding the distinction between these two categories is important to making the right decision for your needs and preferences. It’s a good idea to find a trusted motorhome hire company or platform like Goboony to help you locate the options available for you to start the rental process.
Exploring Campervans
Campervans, which are often converted panel vans, boast of an iconic status within the #vanlife culture. Balancing unique design aesthetics with practicality, campervans such as those built on VW or Ford Transit platforms, give you enough room for up to four adults. These campervans are excellent to hire for brief getaways and for small families. Ideal for those planning to spend the majority of their time outdoors, these vehicles provide a cost-effective and fuel-efficient option.
Motorhomes
In contrast, motorhomes offer more space and amenities, making them an excellent choice for families and those seeking extended vacations. Furnished with features like showers, toilets, and ovens, motorhomes provide a home-like environment on wheels. However, driving these larger vehicles demands extra caution due to their size and weight, requiring confidence and experience with handling substantial loads. Stick to well-travelled routes if venturing into the motorhome territory is new to you.
Crunching the Numbers: Costs of Motorhome Hire
Budgeting for motorhome hire in the UK depends on factors such as the model, vehicle size, and the rental timeframe. Throughout summer, motorhome rental rates typically go from £750 to £1500 per week. When you hire a campervan, unless you are interested in vintage models that are in demand, the cost usually sits on the more economical side of the spectrum.
Bear in mind that besides the rental fee, you must account for fuel expenses, campsite fees, and potential charges for continental crossings if you’re contemplating European exploration. Prioritize quality over bargain hunting, as unusually low prices could signal compromised services or concealed drawbacks.
Tips to Minimize Rental Expenses
Opt for off-peak seasons to leverage significantly reduced rental rates and enjoy less crowded attractions and campsites. Pack essential items such as kitchen and bedding supplies from home to sidestep extra costs. Choose a motorhome size and features that align with your requirements, rather than being swayed by unnecessary luxury. Embrace free wild camping alternatives to economize on campsite charges. Scour for special promotions and subscribe to motorhome rental newsletters to snag discounts and offers. Consider leasing from private owners via reputable brokers for potentially more budget-friendly rates.
Look for Reputable Motorhome Hire Companies
There are many motorhome hire companies in the UK eager to fulfil your vacation dreams. However, it is important to do your due diligence when selecting a motorhome rental provider, as quality, customer service, and pricing differ among these companies.
Consult independent reviews on platforms like Trustpilot to gain insight into the experiences of past renters. Engage with motorhome-focused Facebook groups to seek advice from seasoned motorhome enthusiasts. Thoroughly review rental contracts to fully understand costs and responsibilities before making any commitment.
Maximizing Your Motorhome Experience
With your motorhome selected and your rental contract sealed, it’s time to embark on your memorable road adventure. The following tips are designed to help you make the most of your motorhome journey.
- Packing for the Journey
While reputable rental companies like Goboony provide basic cooking and living essentials, it’s important to pack personal items and specific necessities for a comfortable ride. Consider items like:
– Personal clothing and toiletries, packed with efficiency in mind.
– Lightweight sleeping bags suitable for motorhome bedding.
– Quick-drying microfiber towels to save space.
– A compact first aid kit for minor medical needs.
– Thin, easily disposable toilet paper.
– Antibacterial wipes for sanitary surfaces near the toilet area.
– Essential cleaning supplies, dishcloths, and paper towels.
– Dedicated motorhome toilet chemicals.
– Car chargers to keep your devices powered on the go.
– Outdoor drying equipment like a portable washing line and pegs.
– Indoor entertainment options for less-than-ideal weather.
– Pre-downloaded motorhome apps to help in your journey.
- Charting Your Path
In motorhome travel, the journey itself can be as fulfilling as the destination. Avoid racing to cover vast distances, and instead craft an itinerary that allows for spontaneous stops, enabling you to savour the places you traverse.
Look for navigation apps that take into account your motorhome’s size and dimensions when planning routes. During peak seasons, consider reserving campsites in advance, although off-peak travel may allow for on-the-spot site selection.
- Use Motorhome Guides
Motorhome touring guides are treasure troves of information, offering insights into various destinations, attractions, activities, and offering insider tips. Incorporating these guides into your planning process can make things easy and enjoyable throughout your journey.
- Mastering the Art of Driving
Driving a motorhome differs from handling a standard car or even a campervan. Take time to adjust to the vehicle’s size, weight, and handling before embarking on extensive travels. The rear end of Motorhomes might swing more than expected, especially around corners, and are susceptible to wind gusts. If reversing and parking prove challenging, consider renting a motorhome equipped with a reversing camera, or enlist assistance when parking.
- Understanding Motorhome Systems
Motorhomes feature a range of systems, each requiring familiarity and maintenance. Familiarize yourself with the toilet, water, gas, and electrical systems to ensure a smooth journey devoid of technical hitches.
- Arriving at Campsites
Upon reaching a campsite, take the time to acquaint yourself with the motorhome’s water tanks and toilet cassette handling procedures. Fellow motorhome enthusiasts are usually eager to help if needed, and this even creates a friendly environment for seeking assistance.
- Venturing into Wild Camping
While established campsites offer abundant amenities, wild camping promises a closer communion with nature and potential cost savings. Nevertheless, be cognizant of distinct rules and regulations governing wild camping in various regions. Always consider ethical and lawful wild camping practices.
Culinary Explorations in Your Motorhome
One of the joys of motorhome life is the opportunity to cook your meals and enjoy them in picturesque surroundings. Adapting to limited kitchen space necessitates meticulous organization and a focus on one-pot wonders. Outdoor cooking offers a delightful alternative, with a compact portable gas BBQ being valuable in such situations.
- Slipping into Sleep
Travelling with companions may entail frequent setup and dismantling of sleeping arrangements. Establishing a bedtime routine and coordinating activities can streamline these transitions, ensuring everyone enjoys a seamless and restful experience.
Top Five Motorhome Hire Tips
– Conduct thorough research on motorhome rental companies.
– Consult independent reviews.
– Embrace a leisurely travel pace, cherishing both the journey and pit stops.
– Expect minor hurdles and actively seek assistance from fellow motorhome enthusiasts.
– Reserve campsites well ahead during peak periods, including holidays like Christmas and New Year.
– Never overlook essentials like a corkscrew – a glass of wine adds flavour to the motorhome experience.
Conclusion – Embrace the Road
A motorhome hire for travel in the UK presents a world of freedom, adventure, and the familiarity of home while journeying across landscapes. Through careful planning, diligent research, and prudent preparation, your motorhome rental and adventure can be an unforgettable, stress-free experience. Whether you’re plotting a local staycation or an ambitious European road trip including in the UK, renting a motorhome is a great way to carry out such plans and enjoy the full experience.
