Motorhome hire guide for first-timers

Motorhomes are nothing short of incredible for what they have to offer travellers in this day and age. From going abroad to travelling the stunning landscapes of the UK, they offer you a holiday and a road trip simultaneously, all in a way that nothing else can match.

Whilst this applies to motorhome veterans and newbies to the activity alike, for first-timers, there are some things to learn before your adventure begins to really make the most of it.

Whilst the general premise of a motorhome is relatively simplistic, being as all-encompassing as they are, identifying the best things to do before you set off on your travels can be a huge help. Learning what to take and what to leave behind, for example, as well as a little bit about how they work and what you can expect along the way all makes a big difference in how much you can really get out of these incredible examples of modern luxury.

Prepping & Packing

Before you hit the road, thorough preparation and smart packing are really useful to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Start by gathering all the necessary documents:

●       Ensure you have a valid UK driving licence. All Swift Go motorhomes and campervans sit within the 3,000kg weight (MTPLM) category so a standard driving licence (Category B) is sufficient to drive them. If you’re planning to go on an international trip, make sure this applies wherever you go.

●       When hiring a motorhome, make sure it comes with insurance and take the time to understand exactly what’s included, as well as the steps to follow if you ever need to make a claim. With Swift Go, you benefit from comprehensive insurance designed to give you confidence on the road. While it’s unlikely you’ll ever need it, it’s always best to be fully prepared.

●       Keep your ownership documents or rental agreement and campsite bookings handy so that you can always prove everything is above board, and to make sure things are as streamlined as can be.

After the formalities, it’s time to think about the essentials for living comfortably on the road:

●       Bedding and towels can be really useful to have with you, just in case you need more than expected or if renting, in case you prefer some home comforts.

●       Most motorhomes come equipped with basic kitchenware, but don’t forget to pack items like washing up liquid, tea towels, and of course, food.

●       Pack clothing suitable for various weather conditions. Layers work best in the unpredictable UK climate, but it helps to have something comfy to travel in too.

●       Just like if you were going anywhere else on holiday, don’t forget the essentials like toothbrushes and toiletries to be as comfortable and practical as possible, especially if you are moving around a lot.

●       Don’t forget about keeping entertained. Wherever you end up, it’s always a good idea to take with you the things you enjoy most. Whether you like birdwatching, outdoor sports, quiet reading, or games for the family to enjoy, having these with you can make your trip really perfect.

Campsites & Route Planning

Planning your campsites and routes is essential to ensure a hassle-free trip, especially if you are unsure about where you’ll be stopping over. Wild Camping in the UK can be more challenging than it might seem, after all.

Choosing Campsites

The UK offers a phenomenal range of campsites catering to motorhomes for you to choose from, depending on what you need and what your preferences are.

●       Look for campsites with essential facilities such as electricity hook-ups, water supply, waste disposal, and clean bathrooms. Generally, it makes life a lot easier having these things around your motorhome.

●       Choose campsites that are conveniently located near attractions or natural beauty spots you want to explore. There are literally thousands in the UK alone all with incredible things right on their doorsteps.

●       Not as essential, but checking online reviews for insights into the campsite’s quality and visitor experiences might also be a smart move, especially when you’re booking in advance and have so many options open to you.

Route Planning

Motorhomes are fantastic for exploring the whole of the UK, but they can’t just stop anywhere. It can be a really good thing to plan your route to and from your campsites ahead of time to make sure you have the time you need to complete your trip without rushing or sitting in traffic for too long.

●       Use maps or GPS to plan your route. Consider scenic routes to make the journey as enjoyable as the destination, as well as where you might want to miss.

●       Plan regular rest stops to avoid fatigue, and always ensure you aren’t driving for too long or becoming too tired on the road. Motorway services and designated rest areas are ideal for breaks, but stopping over in a nice spot is what the whole thing is about after all.

●       You never know what might be waiting for you on these exciting adventures, so have a backup plan in case of road closures or heavy traffic. Flexibility is key to a stress-free trip.

Driving Tips

Driving a motorhome is different from driving a car, and it’s important to be prepared.

●       Familiarise yourself with this size of vehicle, and spend some time getting to know your motorhome before you hit the road. Adjust the mirrors, understand the controls, and take a short practice drive.

●       Remember that motorhomes are larger and heavier. Maintain a slower speed and leave extra space for braking.

●       Take corners and turns wider than you would in a car to avoid clipping the curb or other vehicles.

●       Be aware of the height and width of your motorhome, especially when navigating under bridges or through narrow lanes.

●       Always park on level ground to ensure stability, especially when setting up for the night.

●       Make sure you park in designated areas and comply with local parking regulations. This is subject to councils a lot of the time, so there’s no one-size-fits-all rule.

Set Up & Using

Once you’ve reached your campsite, it’s time to set up and start enjoying your motorhome.

Setting Up

●       Use levelling blocks to ensure your motorhome is level, which is crucial for the proper functioning of appliances and your safety.

●       Connect to the campsite’s electricity, water, and waste disposal facilities. Familiarise yourself with the procedures for each of these as they can be different depending on the motorhome you have.

●       Regularly empty the wastewater and toilet cassette at designated disposal points. This might not be needed depending on your rental agreement and the duration of your trip. For owners, this is of course a must.

●       Always keep safety in mind. Lock the motorhome when leaving it unattended and secure all items inside before driving.

Enjoying the Experience

Finally, relax and enjoy the freedom that comes with motorhome travel. Take in the scenery, try new activities, and make lasting memories with your loved ones.

Renting and ultimately experiencing a motorhome in the UK offers a unique and flexible way to travel. With proper prep, your motorhome adventure will be a fantastic experience. Just, pack your bags, plan your route, and get ready for an unforgettable journey across the UK!