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.
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, your holiday dreams are possible.
You can pre-pack your van with all the essentials for a 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, consider buying a campervan!
We’ve all seen people struggling to manoeuvre a large motorhome in car parks. 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.
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.
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.
The layout and functionality of the living space can greatly enhance the adventure experience. Adequate cooking facilities, such as multiple hob rings and a substantial fridge, are essential when catering for more than just a few individuals, enhancing the camping experience.
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 and your dog 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?
Brand new VW campervans can cost upwards of £40,000, so it’s no small investment. A roof rack can enhance the versatility and functionality of your campervan, making it a valuable addition for travellers.
However, there is a huge second-hand market out there and conversions and restorations, including van conversions, 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!
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 may be able to save £££s – probably enough to have several short breaks every year! Additionally, solar panels can help save money by providing a sustainable energy solution. Campervans often provide extra space with features like awnings or annexes, offering more interior room for comfort and additional sleeping areas. You can budget much more easily when you’ve got a camper.
Overnight prices in motorhome campsites can be 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!
If you’re scared of waking up with a bad back after a night under canvas, a campervan is a much more comfortable option. The layout and accessibility of the sleeping space can greatly enhance comfort, ensuring a restful night.
A fixed bed in a larger van provides convenience and comfort after a day of activities, making it ideal for longer-term adventures. 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.
If you’re still unsure about investing in a campervan, rental campervans offer a great way to 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!
Campervan insurance prices can vary, so it’s a good idea to compare quotes to make sure you’re getting the right policy for you. Choosing the right campervan is crucial as it can help mitigate financial concerns related to depreciation, and having the right insurance will protect your investment.
Frequently asked questions
Owning a campervan can offer a unique blend of freedom and convenience that is unparalleled by traditional travel methods. It allows for spontaneous journeys and the ability to explore off-the-beaten-path locations without the need for constant hotel bookings.
Additionally, it provides a mobile home environment, making it ideal for extended trips. However, one must consider the initial investment and ongoing maintenance costs, which can be substantial. The cost-effectiveness largely depends on the frequency of use and personal lifestyle preferences.
The convenience of having all necessary amenities within reach, combined with the ability to personalise the space, enhances the overall travel experience, making campervans a popular choice for many.
Campervans and motorhomes generally hold their value well in the UK, primarily due to the growing popularity of staycations and the increasing appreciation for outdoor adventures.
Well-maintained campervans with modern amenities tend to retain their value better, especially those from reputable manufacturers. However, factors such as age, mileage, and overall condition can significantly influence resale prices. Therefore, regular maintenance and timely upgrades are essential for preserving a motorhome's value.
Firstly, ensure your vehicle is serviced and roadworthy to prevent unforeseen breakdowns. Secondly, plan your route meticulously, accounting for fuel stops, campsites, and potential attractions.
Equipping your campervan with essential supplies such as first aid kits, cooking utensils, and comfortable bedding is vital. Lastly, maintaining a flexible itinerary allows for spontaneous exploration and reduces travel stress. These top tips will help ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable campervan journey.
These panels harness solar power, reducing the reliance on traditional fuel sources and lowering overall travel costs. The initial installation expense is quickly offset by the long-term savings on energy expenses.
Additionally, solar panels contribute to environmental conservation by minimising carbon footprints. This investment not only aligns with eco-friendly practices but also offers financial and practical benefits for avid travellers.
Begin by evaluating the interior layout to identify unused spaces that can be repurposed. Utilise vertical storage solutions, such as wall-mounted racks and overhead compartments, to maximise capacity without encroaching on living areas.
Collapsible and multi-functional furniture are excellent choices, as they serve dual purposes while conserving space.
