Hiring the right motorhome

Think carefully about your needs when hiring a motorhome...

• Size: How many people do you want to accommodate? Make sure there enough seatbelts for all the occupants. Be aware the some beds will be on the small side, so a six berth may not be suitable for six fully-grown adults, more for two adults and four children. Smaller motorhomes tend to sleep fewer people, although a rising roof camper (with a roof bed) can sleep four. Be aware of what you will feel comfortable driving and balance that with the living quarter space.

• Bed: Is bed comfort really important? Then look for motorhomes with permanent beds that are separate to the lounge area

• Kitchen: Will you be eating out or using a barbecue? Then you won't need a huge kitchen or cooking area. If you plan to be a bit more frugal and cook most of your food in the 'van, then a better/larger kitchen will be more important.

• Washroom: Where do you plan to stay? If it's mainly on large sites with all the facilities then a small camper with no washroom or a limited washroom will be adequate. if you plan to wild camp in Scotland or through Europe, then a full washroom with decent shower area is advised?

• Age: Hire motorhomes come in a variety of ages from very new modern vehicles to older classics and anything inbetween. Although older motorhomes generally have that cute factor, newer ones are easier to drive and are fitted with a latest kit...

• Where to hire from: Weigh up the pros and cons of hiring a motorhome close to home and then travelling to your destination as opposed to collecting a hire vehicle close to where you plan to holiday.

• Options: Many companies offer options on top of the standard hire - this includes awnings, bikes and racks, bedding, games consoles etc. Think about what you will use before paying out for these.

Why hire?

The small print

The hire companies