Motorhome basics: An introductory guide to motorhomes
Motorhome basics
Motorhomes are an amazing way of enjoying the outdoor lifestyle, but they do come packed with a bewildering array of systems to get your head around. So how does it all work?
Words by Rachel Stothert, Deputy Editor of MMM
Page contents
- Introduction to motorhome basics
- Motorhome buying advice
- Motorhome hiring advice
- Motorhome layouts guide
- Your first trip
- Motorhome etiquette
- Winter advice
- Coleman's guide to campervan awnings
- How to finance your new motorhome
- Special edition: Buying Your First Motorhome
- Motorhome magazines
Buying Your Perfect Motorhome, the 2024 edition is available now, including everything you need to know about your first motorhome, with essential guides, top tips and buying advice available to buy here
Introduction to motorhome basics
So, you’ve taken the plunge and bought your first motorhome. The first thing to say is congratulations! You’ve joined a friendly club of fellow outdoor fans and now have the freedom to explore the countryside in complete comfort.
Before you embark on an adventure around the UK and Europe, it’s worth taking the time to understand how all the various systems on your motorhome work. Having your holiday cut short because of an easily preventable issue is frustrating, so a little pre-trip preparation is wise.
Even if you’re a seasoned motorhome veteran, a little refresher course is always helpful as there’s always more to learn. If you're still looking at what motorhome to buy, then take a look at our Buying Advice pages, Motorhome Layouts and Motorhome Hire hubs to help you make the right choice.
Buying Your Perfect Motorhome 2024

Looking for more great motorhome and campervan buying information? You need the brand-new guide to Buying Your Perfect Motorhome, it’s packed with everything you need to help you with choosing, buying, owning and enjoying your very first motorhome or campervan.
Learn more about it here.
Digital Download it now from Pocketmags for just £9.99.
Printed Or order a printed edition for just £9.99.
Motorhome basics:Buying advice

(Photo courtesy of Warners Group)
Ready to buy a motorhome or campervan? Get it right from the start with these simple tips on how and where to find your first motorhome.
Motorhome basics:Hiring a motorhome

(Photo courtesy of Goboony)
There are lots of reasons why hiring a motorhome or campervan is a great idea. Our hire guide will answer all your hiring questions.
Motorhome basics:Motorhome layouts

(Photo courtesy of Swift Group)
Choosing the perfect layout for your motorhome is absolutely vital. Our motorhome layouts guide will help you to make the best choice for you.
Motorhome basics:Your first trip

(Photo courtesy of Erwin Hymer Group)
Often called shakedown trips, you shouldn’t expect everything to go smoothly, but by having a quick read of our advice, hopefully the first big adventure will be as problem-free as possible.
Motorhome basics:Motorhome etiquette

(Photo courtesy of Warners Group)
So what exactly is motorhome etiquette? The dos and don'ts of motorhome life. Our advice will make sure your motorhome adventure goes smoothly.
Motorhome basics:Winter advice

(Photo courtesy of Warners Group)
Where do you keep your motorhome for winter? You'll need to consider everything from water system upgrades, ways to reduce the risk of damp and more.
Motorhome basics:Coleman's guide to campervan awnings

(Photo courtesy of Coleman)
If you’re worried about having enough living space, especially in a small campervan, why not consider an awning...
Motorhome basics:How to finance your new motorhome

(Photo courtesy of Alamy.com)
Creative Funding Solutions gives you the most up-to-date information on the latest finance offers for your motorhome.
Buying Your Perfect Motorhome 2024

Looking for more great motorhome and campervan buying information? You need the brand-new guide to Buying Your Perfect Motorhome, it’s packed with everything you need to help you with choosing, buying, owning and enjoying your very first motorhome or campervan.
Learn more about it here.
Digital Download it now from Pocketmags for just £9.99.
Printed Or order a printed edition for just £9.99.
Expert motorhome advice to your door!
Why not subscribe to one of our fabulous magazines and get expert advice, travel ideas, technical help and all the latest news for your motorhome and your motorhome adventures!

Want to know more about MMM magazine?
Every month MMM has articles written by motorhomers who have been there and done it, from great UK and European (and further afield) tours, campsite reviews, owners' reports and DIY projects among other things.
MMM's tests, reviews and expert buying guides are not to be missed. MMM's technical advice is a must and includes everything from weekend jobs to longer-term DIY projects. And much more!

Want to know more about What Motorhome magazine?
Every issue of What Motorhome magazine provides essential buying advice for anyone looking to buy a new motorhome or campervan or upgrade their existing model. With a pedigree of over 30 years of offering the best motorhome and campervan buying advice, every issue of What Motorhome includes more new motorhome and campervan reviews than you will find in any other magazine.

Want to know more about Campervan magazine?
Campervan is the exciting monthly magazine that will give you all the inspiration you need to explore the world in your campervan. Every issue is packed with real-life campervanning experiences, inspiring travel ideas in the UK and further afield, the best campsites to stay on, campervan road tests and reviews of the latest models, and much more!


