Buying vs. renting a motorhome: Things to consider

The decision whether to buy or rent a motorhome is a common one.

22:37 29 November 2024

Having access to a motorhome is incredible. It means you can head off on adventures whenever you fancy and live in relative luxury whilst you do so. The UK is full of stunning places so being able to explore them all is the dream. 

The decision whether to buy or rent a motorhome is a common one. Both options have their positives and their negatives. Here is a guide to help you make the best decision for your situation. 

Initial financial outlay

There is no escaping that if you decide to purchase your motorhome there will be a significant financial outlay to begin with. Motorhomes are typically bigger than campervans, so will cost more with models starting at around £65,000. However, the more you add upgrades, the more the price can climb. You will also be responsible for registering the vehicle which has a cost attached.

Renting largely omits the expense of purchasing a motorhome, but renting can be expensive if you want to borrow it for longer periods. Renting is also a good option if you don’t want to commit to purchasing quite yet. 

Ongoing expenses and maintenance

Like owning any vehicle, there are ongoing costs that you will need to factor into your decision. Motorhoming isn’t something you do every day of the year, so you may need to work out how much storing your motorhome will cost. Services and general vehicle maintenance will also cost you, so remember to take that into account. 

Depreciation occurs with any vehicle once you drive it away from the dealership, so investing in one does mean you will end up with a lower value than when you bought it. 

Usage frequency and lifestyle considerations 

Being the proud owner of a motorhome means you can embrace your adventurous, spontaneous side. You can go on a trip on a whim and drive wherever you fancy. 

Before you commit to buying, consider how much you will use your motorhome. It is a large investment if you are planning on using it twice a year – the rest of the time the storage fees may cost more than you intend! 

If you are planning on short, infrequent trips then renting is the better option for you. You don’t have to worry about additional fees and you can rent the vehicle as little as you like. If you do begin to plan more trips, buying could be a consideration. 

Flexibility and variety

Before you settle on a motorhome, take your time to research and try out different models and layouts. This is helpful when you are new to motorhoming and deciding what your needs are and for renters. 

Unless you are willing to buy multiple motorhomes over the years to fit your needs, owners will often stick to one layout which may not work for your whole life. 

Insurance and legal obligations 

As a motorhome owner, it is a legal requirement to have the correct motorhome insurance. However, rental agreements often include coverage in their contracts. 

As a renter, make sure you read over any terms and conditions and make sure you are clear about the extent of the coverage and any excess fees to avoid nasty surprises if there is an accident.