Which motorhome is the right one for you?
After all, it is a matter of taste. Nevertheless, there are some important things to think about when you consider renting an motorhome. Whether you prefer large, spacious, luxurious or small, compact and practical, there are models of motorhomes for everyone for your European road trip.
What is a motorhome anyway? It is really easy to explain. It is basically a vehicle with an interior that is also suitable for a living. Anyone who has ever stopped at a campsite or a campervan rental knows that there is an endless number of different types of motorhomes.
The world of motorhomes – the main types and models
Motorhome Type One – The Alcove
Whoever has visited the Netherlands has most certainly seen this type of campervan already. The alcove is the model that has a small compartment above the driver’s cab. Whether you need this extra space is up to you. See for yourself and decide whether you are the type that wants to rent an alcove camper.
The advantages of this mobile home become obvious. The space above the cab creates more space, which makes the model particularly suitable for groups of up to six people. Above the driver’s cabin, two to three people have space for a good night’s sleep on the folded seats. If you travel in pairs, the alcove is especially practical, because you do not have to fold the seats to sleep comfortably.
With everything, this model has a down side as well. Although the compartment provides additional protection from the sun while driving and more space, it results in the particular height of this motor home. Therefore, special care is required and you might not be able to enter any parking space, ferry etc. Often you have to pay higher fees to enter any highway or vehicles for transport because of its height. Parking in a car park is not possible and you might get into some trouble trying to navigate through the small streets in the southern European regions.
Also, its architecture demands more fuel because of its height. This will drive up your bill and slows you down on your journey.
If you are planning on renting an alcove and visit foreign countries and areas where you are uncertain about the surroundings keep in mind the superstructure of the camper. The compartment above the cab can reduce the reception of any digital system like the navigational devices.
Advantages
- Four to six beds available
- No conversion necessary if two people travel
- Elevated sun screen inside the cab
Disadvantages
- Height of the motor home
- Increased resistance from wind while driving
- Reduced reception of digital tools such as navigational systems
Motorhome Type Two – The Semi-Integrated Model
If you are planning to rent a semi-integrated motor home, you get the similar equipment that an alcove offers as well. The only difference is that the upper compartment is missing. The cab is kept in its original architecture and the sleeping area remains behind the cab. Thus, there is space for fewer people and the protection from the sun is eliminated.
This model can be compared to a caravan. The only advantage of this type is that it is not attached to a car, but represents a coherent construct. The roof is still relatively high, which can limit the experience of smooth driving and be expensive if you enter the ferry.
Advantages
- Lower resistance to wind
- Lower height, still bigger than a usual car
Disadvantages
- Less space in the living area
- Sun protection is almost zero
Motorhome Type Three – The Fully Integrated Model
You like comfort? Then you might want to rent a fully integrated motor home. This model has the cab connected to the living and sleeping area, creating a nice space. The extra large windscreen also contributes to a wider seeming area.
This type is more luxurious than others, which is also reflected in the price. Apart from the high prices, this vehicle is also great in height in order to give you this much space. Although this model is smaller than the alcove, it is still 1.99 meters in height and therefore bigger than a van. This might be more difficult to drive and confusing at times. You must decide whether you are willing to lower the joy of driving.
Advantages
- More space in the vehicle
- Slightly lower height
- Nice sense of space
Disadvantages
- High prices
- Confusion while driving at certain moments
- More work to keep noise and cold temperatures outside, due to the combined cab and living space
If you feel up to the challenge of driving this vehicle, if you value space and spaciousness and if you want to enjoy the panoramic view through the large windscreen, go for it and get this model.
Motorhome Type Four – The Residential Camper
This model is often referred to as a coach, because it is very popular with artists, musicians and athletes and often is used as a kind of “Tourbus”. As its name “Bus” suggests, this motor home has a huge projectile that is difficult to handle and requires a well experienced driver. On the other hand, these vehicles are really comfortable and the size is suddenly a minor factor.
Most often its energy supply is regulated by a solar system on the roof. Plenty of space ensures a pleasant journey with this bus. The cost of such a vehicle are enormous compared to smaller vehicles. Not only purchasing this car needs loads of income, also the rental price is quite high. Maintaining this model contributes to the high bill as well.
Advantages
- Loads of space for you and your luggage
- Luxurious quality standard
Disadvantages
- Extremely high costs
- Complicated in driving especially without experience
- High costs of maintenance
Well, if you are part of a band and you are touring for a few week, this is the perfect model for you. If not, you might want to think of something smaller. Roadsurfer has many perfect examples available for you.
Motorhome Type Five – The Panel Van
How about renting a small motor home and confine something regarding the space? Get yourself a van as an example. This is build after transporters. Only difference, this model is upgraded into a perfectly fine motor home. In contrast to other motorhome models, vans proof to be less of a challenge to drive and even during bad weather conditions it is still not difficult such as other types of vehicles. Narrow lanes and small cities become less of a problem. Maintenance costs are lower, and costs for fuel are quite low compared to other vans as well.
Unfortunately, a smaller vehicle offers less space. Some models offer an additional pitch-top roof which increases the space but provides additional sleeping space. The equipment usually competes well with larger motorhomes, the only difference is that it is packed into a smaller space. Interior like a kitchen, a refrigerator, sink, gas stove, storage space, beds, table and chairs are standard equipment you will find. Many rentals offer an outdoor shower and a camping toilet. If you want to rent this model, you will get away cheaper as well and can spend that money on different things on your road trip.
Disadvantages
- Small interior
- Lower capacity for storage and water tanks