We’ve all seen movies like Thelma and Louise or Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. We watched as two friends set off on an adventure, and craved the freedom that comes with the open road and four-wheel drive. Chasing the feeling of the sun on your face on the wind in your hair is one of the many reasons why 16,608 new motorhomes were registered with the DVLA from 2021-2022, as well as the growing popularity of campervans and similar vehicles.

Luckily, if the open road has always called to you, providing that you have the relevant license, you can easily buy a motorhome or campervan in the UK and take it wherever your heart desires. However, since it is a sizeable investment, it is well worth knowing several things before going out and buying one, so you’re travelling dreams aren’t cut short.

This article outlines several things you need to know before purchasing a motorhome, including motorhome insurance, accessories you’ll need, and what life is like living on the open road while you’re enjoying local road trips and even trips abroad with your latest addition. Continue reading to learn more.

What Is The Average Price For A Motorhome In The UK?

First and foremost, if you dream of gallivanting around the globe in a motorhome, you will need to know how much one is expected to set you back. However, it can be challenging to give an estimated price since the price could vary drastically depending on various factors. One of the main ones being if you would like a brand new or second-hand motorhome.

On average, if you’re looking at a brand-new motorhome, you can expect it to cost you around £100,000, depending on the brand, features and size. In contrast, if you’d like a more cost-effective way of living out your travel dreams, you could opt for a second-hand model, which can set you back around £5,000.

Plus, even once you’ve purchased your motorhome, you will still encounter expenses while using it, from the cost of motorhome insurance, fuel, and maintenance. However, although these ongoing charges can be a nuisance, many say that the freedom and flexibility that comes with owning a motorhome far outweigh the price you pay.

What About Motorhome Insurance? How Does That Work?

One of the main benefits of owning a motorhome is the freedom and flexibility that it grants you. Whether you’d like a week exploring the Scottish Highlands or a quick weekend getaway to the Cotswolds – all you must do is load up the motorhome, start the ignition and get on the road. However, like most transportation methods, there are risks involved which is why motorhome insurance is necessary.

Whether you’re touring around Europe or abroad, you’ll be glad to have a security blanket to cover you in the case of unfortunate accidents. Although motorhome insurance usually covers your motorhome up to the value of £120,000, depending on which motorhome insurance provider you choose, there are many more advantages to taking out motorhome insurance.

From unlimited mileage coverage to the cover of camping and personal effects up to a specific amount, find out more about your motorhome insurance options by visiting the website of providers like Motorhome Protect.

Are There Any Requirements Needed To Drive A Motorhome?

It goes without saying that you’ll need a license when buying a motorhome; otherwise, you won't be going far! However, depending on the year you were granted your license, you may have to undertake an LGV driving test so that your license is recognised to drive motorhomes.

So long as you passed your driving test before January 1997, and your motorhome doesn’t exceed 7.5 tonnes, you will not be required to undertake an LGV driving test. However, if you passed after January 1997, your driving license will prevent you from driving motorhomes weighing no more than 3.5 tonnes. If you have your heart set on a state-of-the-art motorhome, but fall into the last category, then be prepared to sit another driving exam and pay the additional expenses that come with this task!

What Should You Furnish Your Motorhome With?

Like your home, your motorhome should reflect you. Since you’ll be effectively using it as a second home while travelling the UK and the rest of Europe, you want to be as comfortable as possible by making it an extension of your permanent residence.

Ultimately it is up to you what you furnish your motorhome with. Still, if you want a genuine home-away-from-home experience during your travels, there is plenty of advice online to help you give your motorhome a makeover.

Get those inner interior designer juices following with this list of must-have accessories for your motorhome below:

• Fold-out camping furniture.
• Kitchen accessories and equipment.
• Bathroom accessories.
• Portable barbeque or other cooking appliances.
• TV.
• Wi-Fi booster, and much more.

Do You Need A TV License For Your Motorhome?

After our last point, we’re sure your mind is swirling with loads of decorating possibilities for your new motorhome, from bedding and curtains to finishing touches and electronics. Yet, this begs the question, if you purchase a brand-new satellite TV for your motorhome, will you legally be allowed to use it? Or will you require a TV license?

You will need a TV license for your motorhome if you want to watch live TV or record any broadcasted shows while travelling. Even if you use an online service like All 4 or BBC iPlayer, you will require a TV license – there is no getting around it; otherwise, you could get in trouble and run the risk of going to court or paying a fine.

Especially if the TV in your motorhome is the only one you have, getting a TV license has been essential since the BBC made it compulsory in 2016. So, ensure that your travelling dreams aren’t dampened by a hefty fine and add a TV license to your to-do list if you haven’t already!

As you prepare to hit the open road in 2023, keep some of these tips in mind before investing in your motorhome to make this dream a reality.