New motorhomes: The ultimate guide to getting started

Looking to get your hands on your very own motorhome? Or perhaps you’ve recently made a purchase and are looking to find out more about making the most of your upcoming trip? When you first start out, it’ll take some time to get to grips with your newmotorhome,so it’s a good idea to try and get ahead where you can. We’re here with the ultimate guide and some top tips to get you started.

If you haven’t already made a purchase, it’s essential to choose a vehicle which is spacious enough to accommodate the number of people who plan to travel. The number of ‘berths’ should be at least equal to, or more than, the number of people who plan to travel. If you’re looking for something to serve you well for a couple’s getaway, perhaps a campervan or a more compact motorhome would be suitable? Many of our 2023 motorhomes here at Chelston are four berth models, with plenty for space for families or couples wanting that extra space.

The size of your new motorhome can also depend on how often you’ll be travelling, and the duration of your trip. For longer trips, it may be a good idea to look at new motorhomes with a larger living space or separate bedrooms for privacy – especially if you’re travelling as a family.

Whilst choosing a motorhome that suits you and your needs is always crucial, it’s important to consider whether you’d be prepared to get an additional licence. On a standard category B driving licence – the standard licence once you’ve passed your car driving test – you are able to drive any motorhome with a maximum loading weight of 3500kg. If you’re looking for ultimate home-from-home touring in a A-Class motorhome, you may need to obtain an additional licence for any vehicle over 3500kg. This is what’s called a C1 licence and is suitable for all vehicles between 3.5 and 7.5 tons. You can check out the GOV website about adding additional categories to your licence.

If you’re a motor-homing beginner, we recommend that you practice driving new motorhomes prior to your trip, especially if you don’t have much experience driving larger vehicles or you tend to be a nervous driver. This is also a good reason to practice manoeuvring in smaller spaces – camp site parking can sometimes be a little tight so having become good at this before your trip can lessen the stress upon arrival.

Researching the destination you’re going to be travelling to is the best way to take the stress out of your trip, whilst being able to maximise your time away. This is even more important if you’re travelling abroad – different rules about vehicles, driving on the other side of the road, and designated low emission zones are all things to think about in advance.

When setting off on your first adventure, it’s a good idea to be prepared. There are a few non-negotiables when it comes to essential equipment:

Hook-up Cable

To ensure you can access electricity when you arrive at the campsite, a hook-up cable is an essential item for all electricals, watching TV and charging devices.

 Indoor Mats and a Change of Shoes

If you’re looking to keep your motorhome clean, placing an absorbent mat in the entrance, and having a pair of indoor shoes to change into upon entry can helps to prevent new motorhomes from becoming dirty and stained.

First Aid Kit

During your trip, you’re likely to be taking part in outdoor activities, so it’s always a good idea to be prepared in the case of any minor cuts and scratches.

Sat Nav

As you set off on your travel, you’re likely to be visiting a new place, so using a sat-nav is a great tool to ensure you have a smooth trip and prevent you from getting lost.

Tyre Repair Kit

When driving in more difficult terrain off the beaten track, you never know what you may encounter – potholes, rocks and other obstacles can sometimes be troublesome, so you’ll want to have a tyre repair kit on hand just in case.

Warm Clothing

If you’re planning on holidaying in the UK, warm clothing is essential given the unpredictability of the climate, even if you do have a heating system in your motorhome.

Here at Chelston, we stock an impressive range of new motorhomes for sale. Whether it’s a couple’s getaway or family adventure you’re after, we have something for everyone, including beginners. We also offer a number of different layouts, with a whole host of practical features so you can enjoy home-from-home living at its finest, as you set out on your motorhoming journey. Take a look at our current stock of new motorhomes or get in touch today to organise your visit.