Some people seem to use the words “campervan” and “motorhome” interchangeably. This might be confusing if you’re thinking of buying a vehicle for yourself!
Are Campervans and Motorhomes the Same?
No, there are numerous differences between campervans and motorhomes. The key differences are mostly in relation to the body of the vehicle but these can greatly impact your experience and how you use the vehicle.
In this post we’ll explain the differences between campervans and motorhomes, to help you decide which type of vehicle is right for you.
At Anthony Jones, we specialise in bespoke insurance cover for campervans and motorhomes. For more information and a free quote, call us on 0208 290 9099, or email Commercial.Motor@AnthonyJones.com.
5 Key Differences Between Campervans and Motorhomes
- Motorhomes have purpose-built bodies, whereas campervans are based on existing van bodies. This is what makes it possible for people to convert standard vans into campervans.
- Usually, a motorhome’s cab is part of the living space. Yet in a campervan, the cab is often completely separated from the living space (unless you remove the bulkhead!).
- Campervans tend to be a lot more compact than motorhomes, which means that you need to make use of every bit of available space. Motorhomes, however, can be much larger, and can therefore include such features as separate bedrooms and bathrooms, and extensive storage space.
- Campervans tend to be more fuel-efficient than motorhomes, and as they generally have fewer features, they don’t require as much power to run. As a result, running costs are usually lower for campervans than they are for motorhomes.
- You can drive most campervans on a standard UK driving licence. Yet motorhomes can get pretty big and pretty heavy. If the motorhome’s between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes, you’ll need a category C1 driving licence, or a category C licence if it weighs more than 7.5 tonnes.
Should I Buy a Campervan or Motorhome?
If you’re thinking of buying your first campervan or motorhome, you might feel overwhelmed by the sheer range of choices out there. The first step, though, is to choose between a campervan and a motorhome.
There are pros and cons to each. So, let’s explore each one in turn.
Benefits of a Campervan
- You’d like a project. If you don’t buy a campervan outright, you can convert a pre-existing van. This will give you complete control over everything – all the fixtures, fittings, finishes, and more. Choosing your own materials can even help you save money. Read our guide to campervan conversions here.
- Budget is an issue. Campervans generally cost less than motorhomes, in terms of both the upfront cost and the ongoing running costs. Read our guide to the price of campervans here.
- Style matters. Most will agree that campervans simply look and feel nicer than motorhomes. Motorhomes tend to be big, bulky, and grey. But a vintage VW can be truly beautiful – especially if you refurbish the inside.
- You want ease and accessibility. As they’re smaller, campervans tend to be much more manoeuvrable than motorhomes, making them easier to drive and park. Plus, you will not have to think about getting a new licence to drive a campervan.
Benefits of a Motorhome
- Budget is not an issue. Motorhomes tend to cost a lot more than campervans, yet there’s no denying that you get what you pay for…
- You want luxury on four wheels. Loads of space, fully fitted kitchens, separate bedrooms with double beds, ensuite bathrooms… If you want to enjoy all the comfort and convenience of a hotel combined with the freedom of the open road, choose a motorhome.
- You’ve got a large family. Campervans can become very cramped, very quickly, if multiple people are staying in them. If you’ve got grown children, or even two or three smaller children, then you’ll need the extra space that a motorhome provides.
- You don’t mind getting more training. Depending on the size of the motorhome you choose, you may need to take additional training to get a category C1 or C driving licence.
Campervan or Motorhome – Whatever You Drive, Make Sure You’re Covered
Whether you drive a campervan or a motorhome, it’s vital that you get the right insurance to cover you, your vehicle, and your property.
At Anthony Jones, we specialise in bespoke insurance cover for campervans and motorhomes. For more information and a free quote, call us on 0208 290 9099, or email Commercial.Motor@AnthonyJones.com.
