Should I Buy a Caravan or Motorhome?

Is buying a motorhome or caravan worth it?

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:

  • The snags of caravans
  • The benefits of caravans
  • Is it worth it?
Motorhomes and caravans are far more than they used to be, especially if you own one, so let’s get into it…

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:

The snags of caravans and motorhomes

Let’s get the cons out of the way first:

  1. Cost

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.

  1. Space

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!

  1. Maintenance

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.

  1. Storage

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.

  1. Insurance

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.

The benefits of caravans and motorhomes

Now onto the pros:

  1. Freedom

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.

  1. Cost

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.

  1. Independence and flexibility

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.

  1. Discovery

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.

  1. No limits

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.

  1. Safety

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.

  1. Longevity

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.

Is it worth it?

This question largely comes down to personal preference and situations at the end of the day.

  • Yes, there is a large initial upfront cost, but the longer-term costs can negate that.
  • Yes, there are space limits, but isn’t the point of a holiday to explore and discover new places, not just the inside of your van?
  • Yes, they take up room, but if you use them enough or invest in long-term storage, will that matter?

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.

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