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Campervans and motorhomes are two of the best vehicles for anyone considering exploring the open road in maximum comfort. People tend to mistake one of these vehicles for the other but they are not exactly alike. This begs the question, ‘What is the difference between a campervan and a motorhome?’ Stick around as we compare these vehicles based on a number of distinct features, from size to living space and price. We’ll also compare both options to other recreational vehicles.
Table Of Contents
What Is The Difference Between A Campervan And A Motorhome?
The difference between a campervan and a motorhome is size and the chassis upon which these vehicles are built. Campervans typically have vans as their base vehicles. These recreational vehicles (RVs) are converted from standard vans like the Volkswagen Transporter and Mercedes Sprinter, so expect them to be smaller than motorhomes and to have fewer amenities.
Motorhomes take things up a notch as they’re built on the chassis of large vehicles like trucks and buses. This means you get more space with advanced features and amenities. The exact amenities in each vehicle, however, depend on the cost and size. People may use the terms ‘campervan’ and ‘motorhome’ interchangeably. In fact, campervans are often regarded as B-Class motorhomes.
Campervan Vs Motorhome Comparison
Both campervans and motorhomes come with four wheels, a steering wheel and living quarters. Those similarities aside, there’s a lot that sets them apart. Let’s compare the two RVs across various categories.
Size
The classic campervan is generally more compact and nimble, resembling a standard van. Their small size makes them perfect for driving through narrow roads. Motorhomes are often built on the chassis of commercial vehicles to ensure more interior space. They tend to be bigger with a longer wheelbase.
Living Space
As you’d expect, the internal space in campers is limited due to the smaller size of these vehicles. As a result, they use features like convertible seating, a pop-up roof and clever storage solutions to maximise the available area. On the other hand, motorhomes boast a more spacious and luxurious interior, featuring everything from large sleeping quarters to separate living space and dining areas. Overall, campers are ideal for solo travellers or couples, while families or groups will prefer motorhomes.
Storage Space
Storage space in campers is limited due to size constraints. These vehicles utilise elements like overhead lockers, small cupboards and under-seat compartments for storage, but you still have to pack light. Meanwhile, motorhomes offer abundant storage options, including wardrobes, cupboards and external storage lockers, which are ideal for extended trips or those who need to carry a lot of gear.
In many cases, you can have a bike rack at the back of your motorhome or campervan.
Bathroom Facilities
Bathrooms in most campers are basic or non-existent due to the limited space in these vehicles. Many rely on a portable toilet and an external shower. You get a full bathroom with a shower, toilet and sink in motorhomes. Furthermore, many modern motorhomes even offer additional features, like heated towel rails.
Other Amenities
Campervans tend to focus on essential amenities like a small kitchen, heating and basic insulation. These vehicles also usually have a source of electricity to power the heater and other amenities. Being a larger vehicle, a motorhome offers more. Some are equipped with full-sized kitchens, televisions and sometimes even air conditioning.
Comfort
Comfort level is mostly dependent on the maker and the features of each vehicle. However, campers prioritise flexibility over luxury. With less space, the living quarters in these vehicles are not of the highest standard. Expect small beds and limited insulation. Motorhomes emphasise comfort more with proper beds, seating and insulation. They often also include additional features like satellite TV and sound systems to make every trip memorable.
Maneuverability
Campers are highly manoeuvrable, making it easy to navigate urban areas and campsites. Campervan owners will also see that finding parking is generally less of a challenge. Motorhomes can be difficult to manoeuvre, especially in tight spaces. Driving this recreational vehicle requires more skill and planning, particularly in cities or crowded areas. Car parks for these vehicles may also be hard to come by due to their size.
Price
You’ll definitely have to spend more on larger motorhomes than a campervan. Campers are more affordable due to their smaller size and simpler features. A camper van can cost anything from £24,000 to over £100,000, depending on the size and its amenities. Most motorhomes are typically more expensive to purchase and run. A Class A motorhome, which is the most expensive, can start at £87,0000 and reach over £260,000 for the most expensive models.
Fuel Economy
As you’d expect, campervans offer better fuel economy than motorhomes due to their smaller engine and lighter weight. This makes the running costs of these vehicles quite manageable for most people. Motorhomes, on the other hand, are significantly larger. If you’re buying or renting one of these vehicles, be prepared to use more fuel.
Licence Requirements
A standard driving licence is all you need for most campervans because these vehicles usually weigh under 3.5 tonnes (3,500 kg). In the UK, this is the category B licence. You may need additional endorsements or improved licences if your campervan exceeds this weight limit. A standard licence will often also be sufficient for smaller motorhomes. However, since the majority of these vehicles exceed a gross weight of (3.5) tonnes, you’ll likely require a C1, C1+E licence or higher. Very large ones might even require a Category C driving licence.
Taxes
Generally, campervans are in a similar tax bracket as most passenger vehicles. The exact amount you’ll pay for road tax depends on the vehicle’s emissions, weight and age. However, it will likely be less than what motorhome owners will pay. Motorhomes often incur higher road taxes due to their large size and higher emissions.
Insurance
Campervan insurance premiums are generally lower than for motorhomes due to their smaller size, lower value and simpler interior setups. On average, the annual cost of insurance for these vehicles will range from £250 to £800. A smaller motorhome valued at £50,000 might cost around £800 to insure annually. More luxurious models may, however, set you back up to £1,500.
Other Recreational Vehicle Options
Campers and motorhomes are just two of quite a number of RVs. You’ll also find a few other vehicles that fit into the RV category, sharing similar features with campervans and motorhomes.
Caravan
Let’s start with a caravan, which is a mobile home or trailer that is fully equipped with essential home amenities. It is designed as a vehicle without any engine, which requires a car or van to tow. You can occupy a caravan just as you would a house, as it features sleeping quarters, kitchen and bathroom facilities.
Camper Trailer
Camper trailers are built in a similar vein to caravans but they’re much smaller. They are like small trailers equipped for occupancy. A camper trailer will typically feature a tent that folds out of the trailer, where other essential living items are also stored. You can also keep facilities like the sink and cookers when you’re not using them.
See here to learn everything about towing a trailer with a van.
Winnebago
Winnebago is a brand name for an American RV manufacturer. This company is known for manufacturing motorhomes and campervans of various types. The brand has grown so popular that the term ‘Winnebago’ is often used interchangeably with ‘RV’.
Final Verdict: Should You Hire Or Buy A Campervan Or A Motorhome?
You should hire or buy a campervan if you’re an individual or a couple looking for a manoeuvrable vehicle for a road trip. Many campervans come at a low cost; however, they are usually designed to accommodate the needs of only one or two people. If you need a more spacious RV for more than a couple (your family or group of friends), a motorhome is your best bet. Larger versions of these vehicles can cater to eight or ten people. However, keep in mind that hiring or buying a motorhome costs more and the running cost is also higher.
SDVH’s fleet contains a fantastic range of campervans for hire in different parts of the UK. You can also check out our large van rental options for other suitable road trip vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Campervan A Mobile Home?
No, a campervan is not a mobile home. Although some people may refer to the camper as a mobile home, this term is reserved for a larger, more stationary prefabricated structure. Mobile homes are designed like traditional homes and are usually placed on a permanent or semi-permanent site. They also feature the full amenities you’d expect from a house.
What Are A-Class Motorhomes?
A-Class motorhomes are the largest, most luxurious motorhomes. They offer more room to move around compared to other motorhome types. They also typically boast high-end finishes, ample storage and comfortable living quarters. The A-Class motorhome is usually the most expensive, followed by C-Class and B-Class motorhomes, respectively.
Is Wild Camping With Motorhomes Legal?
No, wild camping with motorhomes is not legal. The official law states that wild camping in a motorhome or any other recreational vehicle is not permitted in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. You can only wild camp in most areas if the owner of the land has given you permission.
Which Is Better For Couples: A Campervan Or Motorhome?
A campervan is better for couples who want a compact RV that is easy to drive. Campers are usually more affordable to purchase and run, and it’s easier to find parking for these vehicles. Couples looking for a vehicle with a more spacious interior and better amenities will prefer a motorhome, although this comes at a higher cost.
Is Driving A Motorhome Difficult?
No, driving a motorhome is not difficult. However, it is much different from driving a regular car. You’ll have to make significant adjustments to your driving, considering the difference in size and weight of both types of vehicles. On the plus side, the higher driving position offers better visibility, but rearward visibility can be limited.
Conclusion
So, what is the difference between a campervan and a motorhome? Both vehicles share a lot of similarities, seeing as they are both RVs. Hiring a campervan is the right choice if you’re looking for a manoeuvrable vehicle for a solo ride or with your partner. On the other hand, motorhomes offer more space with more comfortable living quarters.
