Buyer’s guide

Comprehensive data on new models

Considered to be the most luxurious of motorhome types, A-class models offer a tremendous amount of space, facilities and storage – but they’re also fairly pricey. Read on to find all the data you need to know when considering one of these popular models of motorhome How to use the guide

We’ve organised our listings by layout, generally the most crucial aspect for buyers. Simply locate the floorplan you like in the guide; then, on the left of it, you’ll find details of every UK model with that layout. Simple! Note that TA in a model name denotes a twin-axle.

how to buy… Choosing the number of berths

You may feel that this one is easy – you simply have to go for a motorhome that has the same number of sleeping berths as occupants, right?

That’s one way of doing it – but taking a look at the bigger picture is a better method, and likely to cause you less frustration in future.

If you’re travelling as a couple, opting for a four-berth can be a great way of getting a motorhome that offers just that bit more space, meaning that you’re less likely to get in each other’s way when moving about. Conversely, if you’ve older children, you could consider going for a smaller motorhome and letting them sleep in an awning or a pup tent that way, you won’t necessarily need to downsize when they’ve flown the nest.

Whichever you choose, always make sure that every occupant gets their own belted seat – or, if not, that they travel separately to your destination in a car.

Financing your purchase

Financing your purchase is often easier than paying one lump sum, but be careful not to spend more than you mean to.

Think about your monthly income and outgoings. How much is left to pay for the motorhome? Don’t forget to budget for annual servicing, insurance, and storage if you don’t have space at home.

Dealers will offer finance packages, but compare the interest rates with a personal loan. A few minutes online will give you a clear idea of how much you’d have to pay each month if borrowing from a bank rather than arranging finance through a dealer.

Carefully consider the size of the deposit and the whole cost of the loan, not just the monthly payments. Paying more up front or spreading the cost over a longer period will bring down the monthly payment, but the total spend is likely to be higher.

Visit one of the major shows

If you find the sheer number of motorhomes out there bewildering, fortunately help is at hand. There are UK shows you can visit – COVID-19 restrictions allowing – where you can see a wide variety of motorhomes from many of the manufacturers covered here, and all in one place. The two biggest happen at Birmingham’s NEC, with the larger show in October, when the season’s new models are launched, and a smaller one in February. Two shows at Glasgow’s SECC take place around the same time for those north of the border. There is also a smaller show at EventCity in Manchester in January.