How do I know which size of motorhome is right for me?

The best size depends on where you plan to travel and how confident you feel driving a larger vehicle. If you love exploring rural routes, small villages or national parks with narrow roads, a compact motorhome (under around 6.5 metres) can make life much easier. If you prefer more interior space, separate sleeping areas or long trips abroad, a larger model may suit you better. A helpful rule is to imagine your typical holiday, then picture where the motorhome needs to fit — campsites, supermarket car parks, ferry ramps and small coastal roads. That usually gives you a clear answer.

Is it worth hiring a motorhome before buying one?

Yes, it can be very worthwhile. Many buyers hire a motorhome or campervan first to see what layouts work for them in real life. It is one thing to look at floorplans online, but another to cook in the kitchen, shower in the bathroom or sleep on the beds. Spending a couple of days on the road gives you a clear sense of what you need — and what you do not. Uncover Britain’s hire guides help you find options if you want to try before you buy.

How much should I budget for running costs?

Running costs vary, but most owners factor in insurance, MOT and servicing, new tyres every few years, winterisation and the occasional appliance repair. If you need to store the motorhome away from home, paid storage will add a yearly fee as well. A sensible guideline is to expect a few hundred pounds a year for routine maintenance and more if you choose a larger or older vehicle. Some owners plan this as part of their annual holiday budget or keep a small motorhome fund aside.

What is the biggest mistake first-time buyers make?

A very common mistake is choosing a layout that looks great at a show but does not fit everyday use. Fixed beds, for example, are perfect for some people but take up valuable daytime space for others. Another pitfall is focusing too heavily on low mileage — many motorhomes sit unused for long periods, and lack of use can cause its own problems. It is better to view several models, think carefully about how you travel and imagine a typical day inside the motorhome before you commit.

What is the difference between a habitation check and a mechanical service?

A mechanical service looks after the engine and running gear — things like oil changes, brakes, tyres and suspension, just as with a normal vehicle. A habitation check focuses on the living area: gas safety, heating, electrics, water systems, damp testing, windows, rooflights, door seals and appliances. Ideally, both should be kept up to date. A recent habitation check is especially important when buying a used motorhome because it shows the living space has been professionally inspected.

How long should a well-maintained motorhome last?

With good care, a motorhome can often last 15–25 years or more. The build quality of many older models is robust, and most interior components such as fridges, heaters and boilers can be repaired or replaced when needed. The biggest threat to longevity is usually damp rather than mileage. Looking after roof seals, joints, window surrounds and vents will help your motorhome last far longer and stay comfortable to use.

What should I do after buying my motorhome?

After you have bought your motorhome, take some time to get used to it. Learn how the heating, gas bottles, water tanks, hook-up and batteries all work, and keep the manuals handy. A gentle first trip close to home is a great way to test everything without pressure. Once you feel confident, you can start planning longer journeys using road trip inspiration, planning tips and packing guides so you are ready for your first full adventure on the road.

Your Essential Guide to Buying the Right Motorhome

Top Tips for Buying a Motorhome: New or Second-Hand

Work out exactly what you need so you can choose the size, layout and features that suit your style of travel.

Understand the pros and cons of new vs second-hand models and how to spot a great deal.
Know what to check, what paperwork matters and how to avoid common motorhome buying pitfalls.

Clear steps, practical checks, and honest advice to help you buy with confidence.

Buying a motorhome is one of those decisions that can completely change the way you travel. Suddenly weekend escapes become easy, long journeys feel more flexible, and the UK opens up in a way that’s hard to experience from hotels alone. But with so many layouts, models, and price points to choose from, knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming.

This guide breaks everything down simply—whether you’re choosing your very first motorhome or stepping up from a campervan. You’ll find practical tips, the key differences between new and second-hand models, what to check before you buy, and the common pitfalls to avoid.

1. Start with What You Really Need

Before you look at anything for sale, get clear on how you’ll actually use your motorhome. This saves you time, money and frustration later.

Think about:

How many people you need to sleep and safely seat
Whether you prefer fixed beds (no nightly rearranging) or a more open daytime layout
How much storage you’ll realistically need
If you’ll travel off-grid and need solar, an inverter or extra batteries
The type of holidays you want — quick weekends or long touring trips

A good rule of thumb: don’t buy bigger than you’re comfortable driving, especially if you want to explore rural areas like Cornwall, the Lake District or Skye.

2. New vs Second-Hand: Which Is Right for You?

Buying New

A brand-new motorhome gives you:

A full manufacturer warranty
The latest technology and safety features
No hidden wear, leaks or damp
Options to customise layout and features

It’s the most expensive route, but also the least risky.

Buying Second-Hand

A well-maintained used motorhome can be fantastic value — and often comes with useful extras added by previous owners (awnings, bike racks, upgraded batteries, heating systems).

But it requires more careful checking, especially for:

Signs of damp
Poor repairs
Outdated electrics or tyres
Missing paperwork

If buying second-hand, never rush, and always be prepared to walk away.

3. Understand the Running Costs

Motorhomes are wonderfully freeing, but they do come with ongoing costs.

Include in your budget:

Insurance
Storage (if you can’t keep it at home)
MOT and annual servicing
Tyre replacement
Gas bottles or refillable LPG
Road tax
Occasional repairs or appliance maintenance

This helps you avoid surprises and choose a motorhome that fits both your lifestyle and your long-term budget.

4. What to Look For at a Dealership or Viewing

Seeing a motorhome in person is where everything suddenly feels real — the space, the layout, the condition. But it’s also the stage where people miss the small things that matter most. Taking a few extra minutes to check key areas can save you a lot of trouble (and money) later. Here’s what to look out for:

A. Exterior Checks

Walk the full perimeter and look for ripples, cracks or mismatched wall panels
Check window seals, roof vents and around the awning rail for leaks
Look underneath for rust or damage
Inspect tyres for age, cracks and tread depth

Useful tip: if it “smells” damp, it usually is damp.

C. Test Every System

This includes:

Water pump
Taps and shower
Toilet flush
Interior and exterior lights
Heating (gas and electric if dual)
Charger and control panel
Habitation battery
Hook-up socket

If a seller refuses to demonstrate anything, that’s a red flag.

B. Interior Checks

Take your time here — don’t feel rushed.

Look at:

Cupboards, corners and under-seat storage for damp or staining
Flooring for soft spots
Upholstery and cushions for wear
The oven, fridge, hob and heating — ask to see everything turned on
Bathroom seals and shower tray for cracks

If anything feels “too shiny,” ask how recently it was repaired and why.

D. Mechanical Checks

For privately sold or older motorhomes:

Ask to see service history
Check MOT for advisories
Look for oil leaks
Make sure all tyres match and are under 5–6 years old
Take a test drive (not just around the block!)

If unsure, pay for an independent AA/RAC inspection — it's money well spent.

5. Paperwork That Really Matters

It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of a viewing, especially when the motorhome looks spotless. But the paperwork is just as important as the condition of the vehicle — sometimes even more so. Proper documents tell you how well it’s been looked after, whether anything major has been repaired, and if the seller is being completely transparent. Missing or vague paperwork isn’t always a deal-breaker, but it should slow you down and make you ask more questions.

Here’s what you should always check carefully:

V5C Logbook: Confirms the registered keeper and should match the seller’s details.
Service History: Ideally stamped by garages or dealerships over the years — regular servicing says a lot about how the vehicle has been treated.
Habitation Check Certificate: This shows the living area — gas, electrics, water systems — has been inspected professionally. Aim for one within the past 12 months.
Gas Safety Certificate: Particularly important if buying from a dealer or if appliances look newer than the van itself.
Instruction Manuals: These often reveal how many upgrades have been added and make future troubleshooting easier.
Receipts for Work Done: New batteries, new tyres, upgraded heating systems — receipts prove it actually happened.

If the seller becomes uncomfortable or starts dismissing questions when you ask about paperwork, that’s usually your sign to walk away.

6. Tips for Getting the Best Deal

Buying a motorhome is a big investment, and it’s completely fair to negotiate and shop around. Many first-time buyers don’t realise how much flexibility there can be — especially at dealerships, end-of-season sales or when a model year is about to change.

If you're buying new

Dealerships often have more room to manoeuvre than people expect. You can:

Ask for extras such as a reversing camera, levelling ramps, gas bottles or upgraded batteries
Look at last year’s models — identical layout, slightly older registration, often thousands cheaper
Visit motorhome shows, where brands compete more on price

If you're buying second-hand

Used motorhomes vary wildly in price, even when they are the same age and layout. Check listings on multiple sites for comparison, and don’t be afraid to politely point out issues found during inspection. Many sellers expect negotiation.

Above all — take your time

A motorhome is not an impulse purchase. If a seller pressures you, or says “someone else is coming in an hour,” stay calm. If it’s meant to be yours, it will be.

7. Test Drive Tips

A test drive isn’t just a formality — it’s one of the most valuable parts of the whole buying process. Motorhomes feel very different to cars, and the only way to know if you're comfortable is to get behind the wheel and try a range of real-world conditions.

Here’s what to pay close attention to:

How it feels to manoeuvre: Try narrow roads, turning circles and tight junctions.
Visibility: Can you see clearly from the mirrors? Does reversing feel manageable?
Steering and braking: Good motorhomes feel stable and predictable, not vague or heavy.
Engine sound: Anything rattling, whining or struggling on hills should make you pause.
Gearbox: Smooth changes are essential in older manuals; automatics should feel responsive.
Comfort: Check seat height, driving position and noise levels — long days on the road make these details important.

Don’t rush. If you feel uncomfortable or something feels “off,” trust your instincts. You can always look at another motorhome, but you're stuck with the one you buy.

8. Ready for your road Trip?

Buying a motorhome is a big step, but it’s also an exciting one. Once you know what you need, understand the differences between new and second-hand models, and feel confident checking paperwork and condition, the whole process becomes far less daunting. And remember — you don’t have to get everything right the first time. Many people hire a campervan or motorhome for a weekend before they buy, just to get a feel for layouts and driving (you can explore options on our Hire a Campervan pages). If you’re looking for ideas on where to go first, our Inspiration Pages and UK Road Trip Guides are packed with routes to try, plus practical planning tips like What to Pack, fuel-efficient driving advice and sat navs for motorhomes. Also read about the Code of Conduct, Overnight Stays, Pub Stops and campsite, Camping Club and Heritage Club Membership guidance. Whether you're new to motorhomes or upgrading your setup, we’re here to help you make the most of the road ahead. And of course, don’t forget to check out our library of road trip guides!

The best size depends on where you plan to travel and how confident you feel driving a larger vehicle. If you love exploring rural routes, small villages or national parks with narrow roads, a compact motorhome (under 6.5m) can make life much easier. If you prefer spacious interiors, separate sleeping areas or long trips abroad, a larger model may suit you better. A helpful rule: imagine your typical holiday, then picture where the motorhome needs to fit — campsites, supermarket car parks, ferry ramps, small coastal roads. That usually answers the question.
Absolutely. Many buyers test a hire motorhome first to see what layouts actually work for them in real life. It’s one thing to look at floorplans online, but another to cook in the kitchen, shower in the bathroom or sleep on the beds. Spending a couple of days on the road gives you a clear sense of what you need — and what you don’t. Our Hire a Motorhome or Campervan pages are a great place to start if you want to “try before you buy.”
Running costs vary, but most owners factor in: insurance, MOT and servicing, tyres every few years, winterisation, and occasional appliance repairs. If you store the motorhome away from home, paid storage adds a yearly fee too. A good guideline for budgeting is to expect a few hundred pounds a year for routine maintenance and more if you choose a larger or older vehicle. Some owners spread the cost through careful planning; others set aside a small yearly “motorhome pot.”
The most common mistake is choosing a layout that looks great in photos but doesn’t actually suit your lifestyle. Fixed beds, for example, are brilliant for some people but take up valuable daytime space for others. Another common pitfall is focusing too heavily on low mileage — many motorhomes sit unused for long periods, and lack of use can cause its own issues. Take time to view several models and imagine how you’d use them day-to-day.
A mechanical service looks after the engine, brakes, tyres and running gear — just like a normal vehicle.
A habitation check focuses on the living space: gas safety, heating, electrics, water systems, damp testing, windows, rooflights, door seals and appliances. You ideally want both to be up to date. A recent habitation check is especially important when buying a used motorhome, as it shows the living area has been professionally inspected.
A good motorhome can last 15–25 years or more with proper care. The build quality of many older models is surprisingly robust, and interior components (fridges, boilers, heaters) can often be repaired or replaced. The biggest factor affecting longevity isn’t mileage — it’s damp. Look after the seals, roof vents and joints, and your motorhome will last far longer than you might expect.
Once you’ve chosen the right vehicle, take time to get familiar with all the systems — heating, gas bottles, water tanks, hookups, battery charging. A gentle “first trip” close to home is a great idea, giving you the chance to test everything without pressure. From there, browse our Road Trip Inspiration, Planning Tips, and What to Pack guides to help you prepare for your first real adventure. The more confident you feel with your setup, the more you’ll enjoy the freedom that comes with owning a motorhome.