Motorhome choices – types of motorhome to buy or rent

There are many different types of motorhome to choose from in the UK motorhome market. Read all about the different types available so that you can make an informed choice before you rent or buy a motorhome for your holidays.

Motorhomes – Camper-vans

When people think of camper-vans, Volkswagen is usually the brand that usually springs to the forefront of most peoples minds.  Volkswagen camper-vans seem to have been around forever and they can be found in most corners of the globe such is their popularity.

Volkswagen camper-vans look the part, they are very stylish and have very comfortable interiors that can accommodate two people comfortably in a space that is not much bigger than a typical family vehicle.  Many Camper-vans have high top and raising roofs that increase the space available inside the camper-van.

There are many camper-van fans throughout the world and companies such as Volkswagen have a loyal following because of their trendy designs and quality build with fan clubs, festivals and magazines that promote the brand.

Volkswagen Campervan Fan Club

Motorhomes – Large vans conversions

Large vans can be converted into motorhomes very successfully. These ‘panel van’ conversions are much larger than a camper-van and you can custom design them with good washrooms and excellent modern kitchens due to the extra room.  Just like A Class motorhomes These type of conversions offer much more headroom which allows you to stand up comfortably.  There is usually a double bed fitted across the back of the van.

Motorhomes – Low profile coach-built motorhomes

This is where a Motorhome body is built directly onto the chassis of a major van manufacturer.  Usually these coach built motorhomes have sleeping for 2 or more people with a washroom, shower and toilet.  These motorhomes
also have a bed that is usually mounted across the back of the motorhome with a large locker that is built underneath.  You can get also get a model that is slightly bigger but has an over-cab bed added to it which is commonly known as a “Luton”.

Motorhomes – A class motorhomes

Most A class motorhomes are imported into the UK from the European union and other countries.  The main difference between these motorhomes and the motorhomes already mentioned is that they are built as a complete unit by motorhome companies on top of a chassis unit from one of the main commercial vehicle manufacturers, the most striking difference is that there is no separate cab, it is entirely one space.  A class motorhomes have very modern luxurious interiors that are similar in style to very modern expensive hotel interiors or your own home.  These tend to be the first choice of people wanting to buy or rent a motorhome.

Motorhomes – Tag axle motorhome

A motorhome called a Tag axle motorhome  is basically an ‘A’ class motorhome that has got too big for it’s boots or wheels should we say, basically a third wheel has to be fitted to each side of the motorhome to support the much larger chassis, and this is called a tag axle.  The larger size gives the possibility of an even more luxurious interior that will leave other motorhomes in the shade.

Motorhomes – American Recreation RVs

The Americans call motorhomes “Recreation vehicles” or “RVS” for short, a large number of RVS or motorhomes are imported into the UK every year.  Some American RVS are a similar size to UK motorhomes, but there are also the big brash ones that are very luxurious and are decked out to appeal to the American market.  American RVS are run on petrol engines not diesel and this combined with the larger size means that they are usually less economical to run than UK motorhomes.

Motorhomes – Home built motorhomes

Some motorhome enthusiasts find that they cannot quite find the right motorhome and decide that they are going to design one themselves.  This is not something I would like to do but it does have some real advantages if you are prepared to put in the hard work as you can design a motorhome to your exact taste and needs.  You can find many websites that give advice on how to do this and there are also many do-it-yourself books on the market such as the Haynes  manual on creating your own motorhome.

Micro Motorhomes

Micro motorhomes are really small and are often based on versions of popular cars or vans, most can accommodate two people for sleeping but many only have a single berth.  Most Micro motorhomes  have limited interior space and very basic cooking facilities and normally a cupboard that stores a small portable toilet.  Micros can also have a lifting roof or high-top.

Bongo’s  from Japan

A Bongo is basically a second hand small van conversions that originate from Japan where tax advantages are given to the public if you sell your van for export after  three years.  Based on the Mazda Bongo,  some boast four wheel drive and electrically-powered lifting roofs. They are very economical and cheap to buy.

This concludes our motorhome choices article – please look at other motorhome articles and post throughout the Holiday Motorhome Hire website for more useful information.