Motorhome Insurance from Shield Total Insurance
We are proud to announce that Shield Total Insurance are our preferred insurer for motorhome insurance. As a CaSSOA storage site...
Owning a caravan or motorhome is a considerable investment. Whether you buy a run-of-the-mill one or choose a plush RV-type, you should feel like you’re getting your time and money's worth. To help, we're going to discuss:
Caravans and motorhomes used to have a bad reputation – from causing slow traffic to being cold, shabby and a poor man’s holiday option. Thanks to the advancements in convenience and comfort we're seeing, these concerns are mostly things of the past. In fact, with the cost of living increasing as it is, many are now flocking to purchase motorhomes or build their own pods to explore the wonders of staycations. However, there are still many things to consider when buying, so here are some pros and cons of touring caravans and motorhome ownership:
Let’s get the cons out of the way first:
Used caravan and motorhome models are more affordable, especially if you buy locally or from somewhere like eBay, but from professional reselling outfits and stores, you can expect to pay upwards of £7,000 for decent standard second-hand models. More luxurious and spacious ones are £20,000 plus, and new ones are even more.
You are limited in space with caravans and motorhomes - you can't escape that. But remember, you’re holidaying, so you won’t want to spend all your time inside anyway!
They can be expensive to maintain with their electrics, wheels, hygiene supplies, and more. Especially with motorhomes - they need MOTs and servicing to ensure the mechanical parts are all up to par.
They can take up a lot of room at home when not in use, and you need to consider if you’re causing obstructions and adhering to local council laws too. Using accredited storage facilities like ours can remove this issue in no time.
Considering your investment, sourcing comprehensive insurance for your caravan is a worthwhile venture. It’s also a legal requirement if you own a motorhome, as it is technically a vehicle.
Now onto the pros:
The beauty of caravans and motorhomes is that you can go anywhere. Fancy a trip to the Highlands or a jaunt to the Cornish coast? No problem. Your accommodation is already sorted - all you need is a location.
While your caravan may be a considerable expense, caravan and camping sites are incredibly affordable. There are a few caravan clubs you can join which reduce prices even more, and there are many other site options too, but you can expect to pay around £40 per night for two people instead of hundreds for a hotel room.
With a caravan or motorhome, you’re not tied in. You can nip off for the weekend without having to do any big-time planning. Just like getting a car for the first time and driving off at night for a quick takeaway, you have the independence to go where you want, whenever.
Not all locations and unusual spots have much accommodation nearby. For example, in the Peak District, many hotels or BnBs get booked up fast, but there are campsites dotted all over. There are also many dedicated apps to help you find overnight parking if you aren’t sure what’s nearby.
Whether you want to take your pet along or go for longer or shorter terms, the only limits are the ones you impose on yourself. Many sites have rules, but they’re more about etiquette and being respectful than anything else.
Camping in a tent is a good bit of fun and very affordable, but there is considerable risk with leaving your belongings all day. With a motorhome or caravan, everything is far more secure with less danger of theft. Especially if you’re prepared and protect your caravan properly.
Caravans and motorhomes last a long time if you look after them well. Some suggest an average life of 15 years, but many exceed that. When you add it all up, there’s the potential for massive savings over its lifespan, and the reselling values aren’t bad either.
This question largely comes down to personal preference and situations at the end of the day.
Caravans and motorhomes offer you opportunities you won’t get elsewhere, with the freedom to do what you like when you like and where you like. You just have to be sure that your finances and disposition can handle it enough to enjoy yourself.
Debbie is an experienced writer currently working for Affinity Agency and a range of clients in the lifestyle and entertainment industries. Her main goal is to help people learn, develop and thrive through well-researched and informative content.
Including news updates, blog notifications and all information you need to know about insurance, caravans and equipment.
