Why should I buy a campervan?

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Are you thinking of investing in a campervan? If you’re tired of waiting at airports, bored of packing and unpacking suitcases and annoyed at how long it takes to find the perfect hotel room online, fear not! A campervan is the perfect way to banish all the hassle that comes with booking a holiday, as you’ll have a ready-made vacation machine sat on your driveway!

So, if you’re still sat on the fence and not sure whether to invest in a camper or not, read on. We’ve come up with eight good reasons why it might turn out to be the best decision you ever make.

1 Freedom

How many Fridays have you dreamed about leaving work and heading off into the sunset for a fun-filled weekend at the beach? Too many to count! But you’ve never actually done it because there are too many things to organise – what do you pack? Where will you stay? Will you end up spending a fortune on food? With a campervan, all these worries disappear. You can pre-pack your van with all the essentials for a two-night break away, stock up your fridge with goodies, grab a pair of jeans and a hoodie and off you go! If you need an injection of spontaneity in your life, buy a campervan!

2 Easy to drive

We’ve all seen people struggling to manoeuvre a huge motorhome in a car park. With a nimble little camper, you won’t have any of those issues. Campervans, especially the classic VWs, are easy to drive and park, so you won’t have any issues turning around in a service station or getting stuck on small country roads. You should also be able to drive a campervan on your normal driving licence, so that’s one less piece of admin to worry about.

3 You’ll be in the club!

The campervan community in the UK is huge, and they welcome new members every year. Not only will you get the chance to make lifelong friends, you’ll also get the inside knowledge on the best campsites and camper stops, with many offering exclusives benefits and freebies to club members. You may even be able to save some money on your campervan insurance if you become a member of a well-established club. Some of the best-known clubs include:

4 Easy adventures

Even when you’re on holiday, entertaining the kids can be a bit of a chore. But when you’ve got a campervan, the journey itself is the adventure and suddenly, getting to your destination becomes a magical mystery tour instead of the normal slog to the airport. When you’ve got a campervan, children can take their own toys and their own food and sleep in a bed that’s made up just how they like it. What about if you don’t have children, but you do have dogs? A campervan gives you the perfect opportunity to escape together – there are plenty of dog-friendly campervan sites around the UK. Why not plot a route that takes in some dog-friendly beaches along the way?

5 You can design your own

Brand new VW campervans can cost upwards of £40,000, so it’s no small investment. However, there is a huge second-hand market out there and conversions and restorations are common in the UK, especially of the classic VW models. If you’ve got the technical know-how – or you have great contacts in the motor industry – restoring your own campervan could save you lots of cash and give you a completely unique camper that’s designed exactly to your requirements. Just take look at some of the restorations happening at Cool Campers!

6 Save money on your next holiday

When you add up the cost of hotel rooms, car hire, food, tipping and all the little extras that come with a normal package holiday, that ‘cheap break’ can end up being a lot more expensive than you first bargained for. By having your transport and your hotel room in one, handy place, you’ll be able to save £££s – probably enough to have several short breaks every year! You can budget much more easily when you’ve got a camper. Overnight prices in campsites are a fraction of a hotel stay, plus you can stock up on your favourite food from the supermarket rather than splashing out on an all-inclusive buffet that’s the same every night. So really, once you’ve budgeted for your fuel for the journey (and campervan insurance before you go), you can just spend your money on having fun!

7 More comfortable than camping

If you’re scared of waking up with a bad back after a night under canvas, a campervan is a much more comfortable option. Part of the fun of owning a campervan is snuggling up together under blankets and duvets and falling asleep under the stars. Imagine no more squashing into a tent at a festival (or having to share a toilet!) – when you’ve got your own campervan, it’s bouncy mattresses and long lie-ins all the way.

8 Try before you buy

If you’re still unsure about investing in a campervan, you can always try before you buy to see just how fantastic they really are! Websites like Cool Camping collate a number of campervan hire companies from around the UK, so you can pick the one that’s closest to you and try out this new way of life. We guarantee you’ll be hooked in no time!

Protect your investment with campervan insurance

Campervan insurance prices can vary, so it’s a good idea to compare quotes to make sure you’re getting the best deal. Here at Motorhome Protect, we can compare quotes from our panel of leading UK insurers, so you can be sure you’re getting the right cover for your needs and your budget.

Benefits of cover found through Motorhome Protect can include:

Cover for up to 365 days
Cover while you’re converting your camper
Unlimited EU cover
Up to £3,500 of cover for camping personal effects

Compare quotes for campervan insurance with us today and get ready to hit the open road!

Frequently asked questions

Is buying a campervan worth it?

Purchasing a campervan can be a worthwhile investment, particularly for those who cherish the freedom of the open road and the allure of spontaneous travel. Owning a campervan eliminates the need for hotel reservations and provides the flexibility to explore remote locations at one's leisure. However, potential buyers must consider the initial purchase cost, ongoing maintenance expenses, and storage requirements. Ultimately, whether buying a campervan is worth it depends on individual travel habits and lifestyle preferences.

Should I buy a new or used campervan?

Deciding whether to buy a new or used campervan depends on several factors such as budget, intended use, and personal preferences. A new van offers the latest features, modern amenities, and a manufacturer's warranty, ensuring peace of mind and reliability. Conversely, a used campervan is often more cost-effective and can provide excellent value if it has been well-maintained. Thorough research, inspections, and considering long-term costs are essential in making an informed decision.

What campervan essentials do I need for my first trip?

For your first campervan trip, it is imperative to be well-prepared with essential items. Start with fundamental camping gear like a reliable tent, sleeping bags, and portable chairs. Ensure you have cooking equipment such as a portable stove, utensils, and a cooler for food storage. Safety items, including a first aid kit, torch, and fire extinguisher, are vital. Additionally, pack personal hygiene products, suitable clothing for various weather conditions, and sufficient water supplies.

How do I pick the right campervan for me?

Selecting the right campervan requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure it meets your specific needs and preferences. Firstly, assess the size and layout of the campervan, ensuring it offers sufficient space and amenities for your travel plans. Consider the vehicle's fuel efficiency, as this can significantly impact your travel budget. Evaluate the storage capacity to accommodate your belongings comfortably. Additionally, think about the driving experience; a smaller camper van might be easier to manoeuvre if you plan to navigate narrow roads. Lastly, ensure the campervan is well-maintained and reliable to avoid potential issues during your travels.

Do camper vans have enough storage space?

Camper vans cater to a variety of storage needs, often surprising users with their efficient use of space. Modern camper van designs incorporate storage solutions, such as under-seat compartments, overhead lockers, and multi-functional furniture. While compact, these spaces are meticulously planned to maximise utility. However, the adequacy of storage space largely depends on individual requirements and the length of travel. For short trips or minimalist travellers, campervans typically offer sufficient storage. Conversely, those embarking on extended journeys or travelling with families may need to carefully consider their packing strategies to ensure all essentials are accommodated.

What are some essential campervan tips?

When embarking on a camper van adventure, preparation is paramount. Ensure your vehicle is in optimal condition by conducting thorough maintenance checks, including tyre pressure and fluid levels. Pack efficiently, focusing on multi-purpose items to maximise limited space. Prioritise safety by securing all items before travel and carrying an emergency kit. Utilising apps for navigation and campsite bookings can streamline your journey.