How much does it cost to run a campervan or a motorhome?
We have previously explored how much it might cost to buy a new campervan or motorhome. We’ve also calculated how much it could cost you to tour Europe in a motorhome.
In this post we will outline the day-to-day running costs for campervans and motorhomes. This includes things like fuel, consumables, MOTs, and services. And, of course, it includes dedicated campervan insurance.
Are you looking for insurance for your campervan or motorhome? Our friendly team is always on-hand to find you exactly the cover you need at a price you can afford. Call us on 0208 290 9086 or email us at personal@anthonyjones.com.
Fuel Costs for Motorhomes and Campervans
The amount you pay for your fuel will depend on:
- Your campervan’s make or model, which will affect its MPG.
- How much driving you do. Do you drive your campervan or motorhome every day? Every week? Once a month? Or a few times a year?
- How you drive. Certain driving habits – such as harsh acceleration, harsh braking, and idling – are more fuel intensive than others.
How Much Does it Cover to Service a Campervan or Motorhome?
Regularly servicing your campervan and motorhome will help ensure that everything is always in good working order. This will help you address any potential problems long before they become too serious, which will help you save money in the long-term. Plus, checking and maintaining your vehicle’s engine and tyres can make a huge difference to fuel efficiency.
Annual servicing can cost between £250 and £500 a year, depending on the level of servicing you get, and on your vehicle’s specific make and model. A good servicing should include checks on your vehicle’s engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, tyres, and fluid levels.
Campervans and motorhomes may need additional servicing and maintenance that other vehicles do not. You may have to spend money each year ensuring that your vehicle’s interior remains as clean, comfortable, and habitable as possible.
Tax and MOT Requirements for Motorhomes and Campervans
You will need to pay road tax – or vehicle excise duty – every year for your campervan or motorhome. You will also have to pay for an annual MOT.
The amount of tax you pay will depend on your campervan or motorhome’s weight, engine size, and emissions. Expect to pay something between £165 and £325 a year, but remember that tax rates tend to change each year too.
The amount you pay for your MOT will depend on which garage you use, and on the specific services you pay for. Some garages will service your vehicle as part of your MOT. This will cost you more, but as we outlined above, regular servicing could help you save money on running costs in the long-term.
Other Running Costs For Campervans and Motorhomes
- Campsite fees – You may have to pay to park at campsites, and you may have to pay extra for utilities and waste disposal.
- Food and drink – If you intend to stock your fridge before every trip, you’ll obviously have to pay for anything you bring. Don’t forget the costs of gas to heat your food, either.
- Parking – It can be a challenge finding a suitable place to park your motorhome, especially in urban areas. You’ll have to find somewhere big enough, which might mean paying extra for a suitably sized space. Plus, if you do not have room to park your campervan at home, you’ll have to pay for a parking space or garage even when you’re not using it.
- Travelling fees – You may have to pay tolls on certain roads. If you’re travelling overseas, you’ll have to pay for the ferry, and depending on where you’re going, you may have to pay for certain documents and other accessories. Read our full guide to everything you’ll need to travel Europe in your motorhome.
Insurance For Campervans and Motorhomes
Finally, it’s illegal to drive any vehicle on UK roads without sufficient insurance in place. And if you plan to drive overseas in your campervan or motorhome, you’ll have to ensure that your insurance covers you for doing so.
Your campervan and motorhome insurance could include breakdown cover, which could save you from having to take out separate membership with recovery specialists.
Read our full guide to how much you might expect to pay for your cover.
At Anthony Jones, we specialise in helping people find affordable and comprehensive cover for their campervans and motorhomes. Our friendly team is always on-hand to find you exactly the cover you need at a competitive price. Call us on 0208 290 9086 or email us at personal@anthonyjones.com.
