MODE OF TRANSPORT
What’s the difference between a caravan, a campervan, a motorhome and an RV?
Plus how much each type will set you back
BUYING a caravan and travelling around the UK could be on your bucket list.
But did you know that there are several options when it comes to modes of transport you can also sleep in? Here's everything you need to know.
What's the difference between a caravan, a campervan, a motorhome and an RV?
Caravan
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A caravan is a home on wheels which you can move by towing with your car.
There is no engine in a caravan meaning you have to have a separate vehicle to move it.
Towing a caravan is like bringing your second home with you where ever you want to go.
It means that you have the convenience of having somewhere to stay but don't need to have a second vehicle due to being able to attach it to your car.
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If you are staying at the same campsite for a while, you can disattach the caravan from your car and still use your vehicle to do some site seeing.
Caravans tend to be a cheaper alternative to campervans.
If you intend of purchasing a caravan, you need to check that your car is suitable to tow it as there are weight rules.
You can get your hands on a caravan for around £10,000 but if you want one that's top of the range it could cost £60,000.
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Campervan
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Campervans are similar to caravans but you can drive your campervan without another vehicle attached.
This makes it your vehicle and home for the night combined.
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However, campervans can be pretty pricey depending on what model you decide to go for.
Campervans can be a good option for those who are a bit more spontaneous as they're ready to go whenever you want.
Depending on what your budget it, you may find that the campervan you choose might not have a bathroom or toilet.
However, if you go for a larger model then you might find that it features a bedroom, kitchen, living area and bathroom.
New models of campervans start from around £20,000 but can go up to £100,000.
Motorhome
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Motorhomes really go have everything you could need on a trip away.
They have more space than a campervan, meaning you won't feel as cramped.
They nearly always feature bathrooms as well as at least one separate bedroom, living area and kithen.
The driving cab will also be set apart from the living quarters, which is different to a campervan which tend to be more cramped.
You may need to save up for a motorhome as they can cost a large amount of money.
It might be possible to purchase one second hand for as little as £5,000 but if you want top of the range they could set you back more than £100,000.
RV
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An RV is the largest of all portable vehicles.
You can really make your trip a family affair as you can fit several people into one RV.
RV stands for recreational vehicle and really is a home on wheels.
If you want a home away from home then an RV is a great option as they can hold plenty of storage and enough room for ten people.
RVs are usually home to more than one bathroom, leather sofas, a master bedroom and a large TV.
However, there are some downsides to RVs as they cost a lot to buy one in the first place but also a lot to run.
They can be expensive when it comes to fuel, parts, tax and insurance.
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Due to the size of RVs, they can struggle to fit down small country roads which could restrict where you can visit.
In terms of cost for the vehicle, if you want to buy a new RV it could cost you as much as a house.
Caravan driving laws
Check out our array of handy guides and explainers filled with caravan advice and laws:
- Can I be fined for towing a caravan on a motorway?
- Can you tow a caravan with an electric car?
- How to complain about your neighbour’s caravan
- Are passengers allowed to ride in a caravan that is being towed?
- Does my caravan need an MOT?
- Can I be fined for towing a caravan or trailer without taking a test?
- Can I be fined for having inadequate caravan towing equipment?
- Can I be fined for mismatched number plates on my caravan?
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