Author: Tim Lemon

Hello to all our old customers and a warm welcome to all you new ones. I am Tim Lemon sales director here at Derby motorhomes in the centre of Derby in the UK. We specialise in selling brand new and second home Auto Sleeper motorhomes and campervans. For a personal appointment please contact me on +44 (0) 1322 360222 option one. Kind regards Tim.

Britain offers a rich diversity of attractive destinations. As we hopscotch around the country, here is our selection of places to consider for a short break in your motorhome.

  1. Dorset

Dorset is one of England’s lesser-known counties and many people simply travel through it on their way to Devon and Cornwall.

That’s a pity because it has some beautiful coastal stretches and some exceptionally pretty inland towns and villages – such as Cerne Abbas.

  1. Isle of Wight

Just a little further along the coast is the Isle of Wight – across a narrow stretch of the Solent that nevertheless gives you the impression of having travelled overseas.

The island has an especially mild climate, is easily accessed by regular ferry services, and has a selection of well-equipped campsites for your motorhome.

  1. Portsmouth

The historic Royal Naval Dockyards and many other nautical attractions make this a must area to visit for those interested in a combination of ships and the military.

There are plenty of famous ships to see. In the unlikely event that you grow bored with all that the City of Portsmouth has to offer, you’ll be right on the doorstep for that ferry ride to the Isle of Wight.

  1. Canterbury

The cathedral city of Canterbury has a rich and important history that helped to shape England as we know it today – it is also one of the most beautiful cities in the country.

Located in Kent – in the south-eastern Garden of England – Canterbury’s historic status has been recognised since the 1st of October 2020 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It is also just a 20-30 drive to the coast.

  1. Plymouth

In the opposite direction, on the coast of southwest England, you’ll find the City of Plymouth.

Plymouth Hoe on the waterfront seems little changed from that moment in history – the 20th of July 1588 – when Francis Drake insisted on completing his game of bowls before setting sail to defeat the threat of the Spanish Armada.

  1. Gower Peninsula

It’s almost an island – but not quite. The Gower Peninsula, near Swansea in South Wales, is a haven of peace and tranquility at any time of the year.

It offers stunning coastal paths while inland life continues at the serene pace of a traditional rural community – and many a campsite ready to welcome you and your motorhome.

  1. St Albans

Historic St Albans once went by its ancient Roman name of Verulamium.

It is an attractive smaller city and one which is surrounded by stately homes and other places of interest. No pick of the best motorhome short breaks would be complete without mentioning London – and there are regular fast train services direct from St. Albans into the capital.

  1. Warwickshire and the northern Cotswolds

One big attraction with destinations in Warwickshire and the northern Cotswolds is the simple geographical fact that they sit in the very centre of England. So, it’s easy to reach from just about anywhere – with the possible exception of Scotland!

The countryside is pleasant, with rolling green hills and there are some fantastic tourist centres such as Stratford upon Avon, Kenilworth, Warwick, Leamington Spa and Coventry.

  1. Peak District

The rugged and wild Peak District of Derbyshire has some of the most impressive scenery in central England.

It also has some really interesting towns that are well worth exploring, such as Matlock Baths and Bakewell (home of the famous tart of the same name).

You can take in some of the industrial heritage exhibitions that are close by in southern Yorkshire.

  1. Conway (Conwy) and North Wales

The Snowdonia National Park is right on the doorstep of the charming town of Conway (Conwy in its original Welsh).

There are so many sights in this area including places such as the Blaenau-Ffestiniog railway and Anglesey, that you’ll struggle to get them done in any short break.

  1. Blackpool

It’s probably the most iconic of all the British seaside resorts – the (sometimes faded) glory of Blackpool continues to claim a soft spot in the hearts of its many visitors.

It’s a hive of activity and attractions at any time of the year, so stroll down to the Pleasure Beach and see what’s on.

  1. Lake District

No tourist roadmap of the British Isles would be complete without mention of the Lake District.

The scenery around the lakes is rightly world-famous. Many of the small villages and towns are also well worth visiting, including places such as Kendal – home of the superb and much-loved mint cake.

  1. Bamburgh castle – and surrounding area

A fantastic and often overlooked part of the northeast of England, the coastline around the magnificent Bamburgh Castle is stunning – and the surrounding countryside is mercifully free of crowds for much of the year.

Don’t forget to visit Lindisfarne and Newcastle upon Tyne too while you’re in this part of the world.

  1. Scottish Borders

All too often bypassed by people coming up from the south in their rush to reach Edinburgh and on into the Highlands, the countryside throughout the Scottish Borders is stunningly beautiful and some of the towns such as Jedburgh and Kelso are quaint and unspoiled.

  1. Scottish Highlands

Now it’s true that if you’re based anywhere in England, you might struggle to do a short break into the Scottish Highlands due to the distances involved. Even so, if you are in Scotland or have a few more days to spare when setting out from England, the Highlands are a must for a visit.

You can go right up the middle towards Loch Ness or for a slightly different view of the Western Highlands, try the area around Inveraray which is incredibly beautiful.

Go on, you have to admit it to yourself. However much you cherish your faithful – somewhat ageing – old motorhome, you’ve probably been casting envious eyes at those campsite neighbours who’ve turned up in the shiny new Auto-Sleeper they’ve just driven from the franchise dealer.

Who knows what good fortune awaits you – maybe this is the year you’ll earn your share of jealous looks by upgrading your motorhome to an Auto-Sleeper of your own.

Why upgrade to an Auto-Sleeper?

For anyone with even a passing interest in motorhomes, the models built by Auto-Sleeper are in a class of their own when it comes to quality and reliability – a solid reputation that has been more than 60 years in the making since it was founded in Worcestershire in 1961

It’s not just the Mercedes power unit and chassis, but the overriding sense of space and a clever interior design that won praise and admiration from the reviewers at Caravan Gossip who concluded that the Bourton range delivers on every conceivable front.

If you are upgrading your motorhome to an Auto-Sleeper you are likely to be spoilt for choice by the range of Mercedes models alone – there are five of these to choose from, many of them award-winning and each one a customisable coachbuilt motorhome, from the quintessential luxury of the Bourton through to the ever-popular Burford Duo.

But it is not only the Mercedes fleet of top-quality motorhomes that emerge from Auto-Sleeper’s Orchard Works in Willersey. There is an equally fine range of Peugeot coachbuilts and Peugeot van conversions, with models to suit all users and pockets.

Where can I view an Auto-Sleeper?

For all the magazines and brochures you might read – or even the model you recently spotted first-hand at the campsite – there is unlikely to be anything to beat an inspection that gets you properly up close and personal.

And nowhere are you likely to find such an extensive range of all Auto-Sleeper models on permanent exhibition under one roof than at our centre here at Derby Motorhomes – a heated indoor showroom, no less.

It’s here that you can step up into whichever motorhome takes your fancy, take a seat behind the wheel or in the luxurious interior, open and close the drawers and cupboards and truly imagine yourself on holiday in your dream home away from home.

How can I upgrade to an Auto-Sleeper?

You’d like to upgrade your motorhome to an Auto-Sleeper, but how are you going to afford it, you’re probably asking yourself.

At Derby Motorhomes once again the choice is all yours.

One way we are committed to helping is by guaranteeing a fair, top-notch part-exchange price if you are looking to upgrade. Our website may help to start the ball rolling by inviting you to submit details of any motorhome or campervan you want to offer in part exchange. On the strength of that description, we can provide you with a valuation as speedily as possible.

We are also able to arrange motorhome finance at what we believe are competitive rates – even if your credit history is less than perfect. If you choose to fund your purchase that way, you may do so in the confidence that we are duly authorised and registered with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) – which regulates the providers of such credit.

You have probably heard that all the rage in car finance these days is something called Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) – you might even be buying your car through just such a scheme. And that is yet a further method of financing the purchase of an Auto-Sleeper if you are upgrading your motorhome.

For those more comfortable and at home with established, traditional forms of finance, we can also offer hire purchase agreements.

For anyone who already owns a motorhome, is thinking of buying one, or is just itching to find out what makes them so popular, a motorhome show offers a showcase of everything you could hope to find out about these leisure vehicles.

Fortunately, the UK boasts a fairly full calendar of motorhome shows across the country and throughout the entire year. The biggest and probably most popular of these is the Caravan, Camping, and Motorhome Show held at Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre (NEC), towards the end of February each year.

But there are plenty of other shows, too, so that you’re never likely to be far from one coming soon to where you live. Because of the range and variety of everything on display at these shows, it makes good sense to spend a moment or two thinking about how you can make the most of your time there:

Why are you going?

  • it might seem like too obvious a question, but if you have sorted out in your mind just why you are heading off to the show, it may help you to make the most of the day;
  • if you have a definite plan to buy a new motorhome soon, for example, you might find discounts and other deals being offered by suppliers at the exhibition – so you might want to line up any finance for your new motorhome before you go;
  • if you are going just to browse, you might want to give yourself that extra time and space by organising a weekday visit, when there are fewer crowds, and you can wander to your heart’s content;

What’s there?

  • of all the many motorhome shows around the country at various times of the year, just remember that every one of them is different;
  • most have a website where you can find details of what is going to be on display and perhaps even a site plan of exhibitors;
  • before show day, make a note of those manufacturers of motorhomes, suppliers of accessories, and any other exhibits in which you are likely to be interested;
  • this is to help make sure that you cover everything you want to cover, in a place where you are almost certain to be side-tracked and distracted by the new or unusual – your list of “must sees” may help to provide some focus;
  • the reason for going and knowing what’s there may help you to devise a plan for the best use of your day;
  • you might want to regard it as a list of intentions, though, rather than any hard and fast schedule that you must stick to at all costs – allow for sufficient flexibility in your planning;

Motorhome show or permanent exhibition?

  • although it is easy enough to find a schedule of different motorhome shows that are going to be staged at various times of the year in different parts of the country, remember, too that there are also more permanent displays and exhibitions;
  • our own exhibition centre here at Derby Motorhomes in Derby, for example, offers year-round displays of a huge selection of new and used vehicles, supplemented by a comprehensive, user-friendly and personalised website and social media experience for anyone interested in buying their next motorhome;

What type of motorhome?

  • it’s a motorhome show, so you might want to give some thought beforehand to the type of motorhome you want;
  • where are you likely to be driving one, for example – how long do you plan to be behind the wheel and how long inside your motorhome once you’ve set up your base;
  • what standard of accommodation are you looking for and how many people does it need to sleep – something as simple as adequate headroom for the tallest member of the family could make all the difference;
  • where are you going to park or store your motorhome when it’s not in use and where can you take it for repairs, servicing, and maintenance;

A family day out?

  • a motorhome show can make for a great family day out – and the kids are likely to be just as excited as you about the next holiday adventure;
  • remember, though, that their attention span may be less single-minded than your own and you might want to be prepared to offer them other distractions, too – soft drinks and munchies for starters.

Your visit to a motorhome show is likely to prove a fun-packed and absorbing experience – but a little forethought and planning might help you make the most of it.

Whether you are a newcomer to the market for buying a motorhome or a seasoned old hand, one of the exciting parts of choosing your next make and model is the research you can put into browsing the many and varied types of vehicle that are available – both new and second hand.

Through that research, you may build up a clear picture of what is available but also what types of motorhome, what makes and models, what sizes and layouts and what prices might begin to meet your particular, individual needs and requirements.

We take pride in our experience and expertise in practically every aspect of motorhome ownership, yet still we could not hope to address every question or query in a brief article such as this. Your tastes, preferences, and choices are entirely personal, so you’ll be guided by those requirements and circumstances that are unique to you.

But where do you start? What goes into researching the possibilities and choosing your next motorhome – and why does that choice so often point in the direction of a motorhome made by Auto-Sleepers?

The research

Researching motorhomes is by no means difficult. Literally thousands of websites are ready to visit at the click of a mouse or the touch of your tablet.

Make a start now and you are soon likely to drill down to your shortlist of motorhomes to buy, others to keep an eye on for the future, and all manner of tips and suggestions on owning your own vehicle.

The internet

While the internet may be immediately and easily accessible – just search for “UK motorhomes” – it’s likely to produce a scattergun result of more than half a million links for you to follow.

Fortunately, therefore, there are other rich sources you might like to tap:

Dealers

  • a visit to your motorhome dealer is the ideal way to focus your research and to make it altogether more meaningful;
  • start by identifying those motorhome dealers, franchises, retailers, and manufacturers within more or less easy reach of your home;
  • although the amount and quality of information are likely to vary quite widely from one dealer – and their website – to another, any reputable supplier probably posts well-illustrated content, which gives you the chance not only to read the descriptions (in varying degrees of detail) but also to see makes and models which might pique your interest;
  • some dealers may also let you download or order catalogues of this year’s latest models;

Reviews

  • there are also online magazines which publish reviews of motorhomes – with Practical Motorhome, as just one example, offering at least one major, detailed review each week;

Exhibitions

  • webpages and hard copy may give you many leads, but probably leave you itching to see the real thing for yourself;
  • for the chance to get up close and personal with your favourite models, check out the dates and places of some of the many motorhome and caravan shows that take place all around the country each year;
  • remember, too, that more permanent exhibition spaces are maintained by leading dealers – such as ourselves here at Derby Motorhomes, where our extensive indoor showrooms give you a hands-on experience of a huge range of models, all under one roof where you can stay out of the wind and the rain for viewings on wintry days;
  • in fact, we are especially conscious of the need to provide our customers with a seamless experience between online research and browsing and the chance to see and sit in a selection of motorhomes for themselves – so, our website, the descriptions, illustrations, and downloadable catalogues, together with the extensive facilities here at our site in Derby, are all designed to offer just that experience;

Clubs

  • as you continue your research into motorhomes, you might want to mark some of the websites you visit as favourites to visit more regularly;
  • the Caravan and Motorhome Club, which was founded more than 100 years ago, maintains regularly updated sections of its website dedicated not only to subjects such as choosing and buying a motorhome but also listings of some of the campsites you might visit;
  • the Camping and Caravanning Club devotes perhaps even more space and consideration to motorhomes – including an especially detailed menu of articles on everything from choosing your motorhome, buying guides, driving tips, and care for your motorhome.

Your type of motorhome

For all investigations and studies, it helps, of course, if you have at least a rough idea of the type of motorhome you are after and just how you – and your family – may be planning to use it.

When you’re thinking about the likely use that you and your family might make of a motorhome, it can be helpful to consider the broad categories into which these specialist vehicles are typically sub-divided:

Campervans

  • these are typically relatively small vehicles with basic sleeping facilities and possibly some additional catering and hygiene facilities too;
  • if you are unfamiliar with them, you may be able to picture one by thinking of those now-legendary VW camper vans of the late 1960s, which were immortalised by the Hippy Movement;
  • today’s campervans, though, are entirely different and almost sophisticated by comparison – yet they remain small vehicles and are likely to be best suited to couples who may not plan on taking children or others with them on their trips;

Van conversions

  • in the great majority of cases, these are larger and much more luxuriously equipped than campervans;
  • they’re typically based around the idea of a smaller standard commercial van which has been extensively customised internally to provide sleeping and other accommodation-related facilities;
  • they are extremely popular and for many, are regarded as a sort of “entry-level motorhome”;

Coach-built motorhomes

  • selected manufacturers turn out luxury, coach-built motorhomes in the UK;
  • typically, these are vehicles that contain an engine, chassis and perhaps some other fundamental structural components, so that onto the chassis a coachbuilder will then design and build the required luxury accommodation;
  • these are superb vehicles and offer high-quality accommodation such as multiple berths, fully fitted kitchens, and luxury shower and WC facilities;
  • by definition, these tend to be larger than van conversions and offer extremely viable holiday accommodation;

Recreational Vehicles (RVs)

  • the terminology is sometimes confusing;
  • in North America, “motorhomes” are commonly called “RVs” and in the UK, that term is starting to be used to describe motorhomes, too – though an added complication is that the term can also be exclusively applied to some of those exceptionally large motorhome vehicles that you may see on the roads with the size and appearance almost akin to a semi-articulated commercial vehicle;
  • when the vehicle described as an RV is an exceptionally large rig, it may well have been imported from the United States;
  • it is imperative, if you are considering purchasing such a motorhome, to be sure that it is fully road legal in the UK and European Union – you might also need a special licence to drive one;

Trailer tents and “collapsibles”

  • we include these here only for completeness and orientation because few would consider them to qualify as a motorhome;
  • these vehicles are usually something along the lines of a small van or perhaps a trailer with collapsible or flexible walls packed away inside, which can be pulled out and opened up to construct what is essentially a tent.

Why you might choose Auto-Sleepers

So, you’ve done your research and you’ve homed in on the type of motorhome most likely to meet you and your family’s needs. What is it about the Auto-Sleepers marque that is likely to make it a favourite choice?

The magazine Manufacturing Today describes Auto-Sleepers as “one of the best known and loved brands in the UK”. Indeed, there is no shortage of reasons for choosing to buy an Auto-Sleepers model.

It’s no accident – but a testament to the build quality and design of their motorhomes – that Auto-Sleepers consistently walk away with some of the major prizes in the annual Owner Satisfaction Awards organised jointly by the Camping and Caravanning Club and Practical Caravan magazine.

So, let’s take a closer look at just why Auto-Sleepers make such a good buy:

Safety first

Quality

  • it is the quality of the craftsmanship that goes into every handcrafted model from Auto-Sleepers that probably draws most buyers – and wins the envious glances of other motorhome owners;
  • from their factory at Willersey, in the Cotswolds, the company has spent the past 60 years or so perfecting the art of producing custom-made motorhomes, to designs which have time and again proven to be ahead of their times – and always in a class of their own;

Derby Motorhomes

  • talk about the design and craftsmanship of Auto-Sleepers might come easily, but you don’t have to take our word for it – get up close and personal with the full range of models and see for yourself at our extensive showrooms and exhibition centre here at Derby Motorhomes in Derby;
  • as winter approaches and the wet and windy weather sets in, you can experience first-hand encounters with as many motorhomes as you like, all in the dry and heated comfort of our indoor space – and contentedly dream of those sunny summer days touring in the luxury of your own motorhome;

Your choice

  • browse the Auto-Sleeper listings for 2023 and you will get your first glimpse of the extremely wide range of new models available – including awarding-winning panel van conversions, coach-built versions using the popular Peugeot chassis, your own bespoke form of luxury built on chassis from Mercedes, or launched in 2022 the new Ford Air Camper;
  • the possibilities do not stop there – your choice of additional features and accessories combine to offer endless variations for personalising your Auto-Sleepers to your precise specifications;
  • a customised choice of fabrics for the furniture and furnishings, for example, or the addition of accessories such as bicycle carriers, in-vehicle entertainment systems and solar panels;

Transparent pricing

  • here at Derby Motorhomes, we are especially keen to keep things perfectly clear and straightforward when it comes to perhaps your biggest concern – pricing
  • to that end, we identify every component of the total price you are likely to pay – the basic price, plus VAT, the ex-works price, the cost of delivery (if necessary), the cost of any additional features or accessories you have chosen, and the final, effective price on the road of your Auto-Sleepers.

Just as Auto-Sleepers has gained its status as the mainstay of motorhome manufacturing in the UK, so Derby Motorhomes strives to keep its place as one of the country’s leading dealerships.

We recognise that choosing a new motorhome is not something to be rushed.

Even with entry-level purchases, choosing a new motorhome is going to involve spending a significant amount of money and it’s important that you get it right – and match your purchase to your precise requirements and circumstances.

Our primary objective is to ensure you get a vehicle that you are happy with rather than simply selling you a motorhome. We’d welcome the opportunity to prove that by discussing this entire subject with you further – just visit our showrooms in Derby or give us a call on 01332 360222.

The big day has come. As the proud new owner of a motorhome, you’re ready to embark on your very first trip!

It’s worth curbing that natural enthusiasm for just a moment or two longer to carry out a few helpful “pre-flight checks” and run through your travel plans once you’re on the road. As far as the following tips and suggestions go, let’s assume that you’ll be staying within the UK for at least your first foray or two.

Eventually, and with experience, you’ll almost certainly discover that the time well spent on these pre-outing preparations becomes second nature – practically instinctive.

To give you some idea of the importance of getting the packing, stowing, and last-minute preparations right, you’re unlikely to find anything more comprehensive than the Wandering Bird’s treatment of the subject – and if you’d rather watch than read, there is even a self-explanatory video to accompany their article.

As a rule of thumb, the checklist is likely to feature all or some of the following. For example:

The vehicle

  • check that everything inside is correctly stowed and secured – get it right to avoid spending a potential fortune later if things go wrong, suggests the motorhome rental website Goboony which describes the task of packing as both difficult and easy at the same time;
  • although you’ll have more room for your baggage than if you were staying in a hotel, don’t get carried away with the temptation to pack too much;
  • walk around your motorhome and inspect it from the outside to be sure that everything appears to be where it should be;
  • make sure that all the mechanics and internal fittings are working correctly;
  • disconnect all gas supplies (disconnection is not always quite as straightforward as it seems, so you might need to follow the manufacturer’s specific advice on that one);
  • check that all the electrics – the vehicle’s external system for signalling and lights and internal illumination) – are OK;
  • remember to confirm where you stand with any need for a TV licence – broadly speaking, if your normal place of residence will be empty while you’re away or nobody will be using the TV there, your motorhome TV should continue to be covered. But if someone else back home will be using the TV (your grown-up kids might have stayed behind, for example), you may need a separate licence for the set in your motorhome;
  • pack a good toolkit – and familiarise yourself with how each piece works;
  • include some emergency lighting and dependable, fully charged torches;
  • make certain that you have a good first-aid kit available that is within its “use by” dates;
  • take some means of heating with you or confirm that anything built-in will be adequate – as any native will know only too well, that might be important even at the height of a British summer, so it’s certainly worth checking;
  • make sure the appropriate water tanks and reservoirs have been filled;

The adventure

  • a story in the Daily Mail on the 23rd of June 2022 described the surge in popularity of motorhome holidays as the means of enjoying your staycation;
  • so, remember to double-check the location of your campsite and the reservations you have made there – this is especially important if your first trip happens to coincide with a bank holiday or any school holiday periods;
  • plan your route carefully – whether you use satnav or good old-fashioned maps, this is important since you won’t want to discover low bridges or impassably small access tracks only for the first time when trying to reach your site by that scenic route;
  • plan a route that avoids as many towns and village centres as possible – old narrow streets and large motorhomes can be incompatible with public harmony and tranquillity;
  • check that your insurance is valid and up to date – although that’s almost certainly the case, it’s always good practice to check such an essential before setting off
  • have maps to hand – even with a satnav on board, having a big-picture old-fashioned map, opened in your passenger’s lap, is sometimes invaluable when the electronic device just doesn’t seem to be making sense or you need a quick decision;
  • practise driving and manoeuvring your vehicle beforehand – if you’re still a novice, or feel a little uncomfortable behind the wheel of a motorhome, setting off on your first trip is probably not the best time to learn;
  • consider taking a motorhome manoeuvring course – both the Camping and Motorhome Club and the Camping and Caravanning Club run them – to build your confidence.
  • at the very least, you might want to find somewhere quiet and safe, like a supermarket car park when it’s closed, and practice your basics like reversing and parking before you load up and set off;
  • brush up on the best practice rules of the road for motorhomes – manoeuvres such as attempting to overtake lorries and getting stuck in the outside lane because your motorhome can’t quite make it can quickly lead to difficulties and dangers.

Daunted by this seemingly long list of tips and suggestions? Don’t be intimidated by it. As we have said, most of it will become second nature after your first couple of excursions so enjoy what will be the first of many – it’s a great moment to celebrate.

Whether it’s during the summer season or tucked up at home in the wintertime, there’s one thing likely to pique the interest of any motorhome owner – and that’s any opportunity to accessorise the beloved vehicle.

Even though your motorhome is already likely to be equipped to a high standard – especially if you’re lucky enough to own an Auto-Sleepers model – there’s always an opportunity to add a dash of your own personality. Accessories can give that extra definition as well as add more comfort and luxury – it’s what motorhome owners call accessorising.

Here are our thoughts on some of the most popular and potentially most useful accessories you’re likely to find.

Satellite TV

Old-style camping might have left you with little to do in the evenings except to play cards, dominoes, or board games. Thanks to the march of technology, TV in your motorhome can these days play a part in your evening’s recreation.

At one time, trying to get portable satellite technology into your motorhome (and the dish locked onto the beam) virtually required a team of rocket scientists and a budget the size of NASA’s. Fortunately, those days are now long gone and it’s really easy to get some great and easily configured satellite dishes and associated TV receptors.

If you own an Auto-Sleepers motorhome, of course, you’re almost certain to find that it’s already fitted with built-in WiFi alongside an LCD TV Point – or even the optional extra of a Mercedes-Benz or Peugeot Media Pack.

A WiFi booster

When your motorhome is fitted with the latest onboard technology, the last thing you’ll want to discover is that your campsite has not kept up to date with all that’s available or is in an especially remote part of the country.

That’s when you’ll be glad of your own WiFi booster – a simple and affordable piece of kit that can help keep you in touch and use all of those internet-based facilities you would do from home.

Awnings

These are fantastic for extending the living space of your motorhome. They come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, solution types and of course, prices.

In passing, remember your motorhome insurance might require you to take certain common-sense steps to protect your awnings when you are away from your vehicle.

A barbecue

Even with the best-equipped motorhome galley in the world, nothing quite beats cooking over an open flame in the open air – a barbecue is an intrinsic part of the whole camping experience.

You’ll not need to invest in a barbecue capable of feeding a football crowd either – they now come in extremely small and lightweight sizes, suitable for use outside motorhomes.

In partnership with the British Beekeepers Association, Valiant make an especially trim and foldaway barbecue ideal for packing into your motorhome and breaking open when you fancy an alfresco meal.

Fold up outdoor furniture

This may sound like something of a no-brainer when it comes to accessorising your motorhome. Yet strangely, it can sometimes be overlooked, and you might suddenly find yourself with nowhere to sit outside on a beautiful day.

This also isn’t any longer a question of digging out that old rickety deck chair that belonged to your grandparents (in fact, they’re just the kind of item that might be collectable and valuable!).

Current ultra-modern designs offer a range of sitting and fantastically inventive table solutions – and they can be collapsed back into incredibly compact sizes for storage and transportation.

Portable external lamps

These can be essential for maximising your time outside once the sun has gone down. They come in various shapes and sizes and use different sorts of technologies.

Solar-powered varieties are great for providing a very low level of basic finding-your-feet safety but for greater illumination, you may need to look at battery-powered models.

Yet again, this is an area where prices have fallen hugely over recent years – as a brief glance at the relevant Amazon UK pages will show.

Summary

Many motorhome veterans will tell you that accessorising your motorhome can be great fun and that the choice available today is vast.

Why not take a few minutes to browse an online catalogue or two? You may get some really great ideas from doing so.

It’s no secret that at Derby Motorhomes we’re great fans of Auto-Sleepers motorhomes and we’ve developed a huge amount of experience with Auto-Sleepers over many years. We’d like to share that with you in the following selection of some of the most frequently asked Auto-Sleeper questions (FAQs) we receive.

Do Auto-Sleepers build motorhomes?

Like all the best answers, we can give this one both a yes and a no!

Auto-Sleepers is based in the Cotswolds and builds coachwork and undertakes van conversions. They do not build engines, transmission systems, or any of the mechanical features of a motorhome.

An Auto-Sleepers motorhome will use state-of-the-art power plants and chassis from companies such as Mercedes-Benz, Peugeot, Fiat, or most recently Ford, but everything related to accommodation and fittings will be sourced and installed themselves.

What is a van conversion and how does it differ from a motorhome?

This one comes up regularly in Auto-Sleepers FAQs we receive.

Essentially, a motorhome has had its entire accommodation unit designed and built bottom-up for accommodation purposes. A van conversion is based upon a standard van supplied by a major manufacturer which is then specifically customised and configured into luxury accommodation.

By and large, van conversions are typically smaller and have less space internally than coachbuilt motorhomes.

Some people always differentiate in speech or writing between motorhomes and van conversions. Others describe them all as motorhomes.

Whatever you call them, you can view our entire range of motorhomes in our heated, indoor, exhibition centre here in Derby.

How do collapsible caravans fit into the picture?

These are typically trailers that have a caravan/tent folded up inside. Once you arrive at your campsite, the pieces are unfolded and connected up to provide what is typically semi-rigid tented accommodation.

They are not usually considered to be motorhomes.

Is it better to purchase a new or used Auto-Sleepers motorhome?

There are multiple arguments for both. We won’t take a position! But that won’t stop us from making a few of the more obvious observations.

Whatever vehicle is being discussed, the logic behind purchasing pre-used as opposed to new is usually either:

•       price – pre-used vehicles are usually cheaper, of course (all other things considerations equal); and

•       model – sometimes buyers might prefer a given model that’s since been discontinued, although this is rare.

In terms of price, Auto-Sleepers motorhomes typically hold their values well. Of course, a three-year-old vehicle is likely to cost less than a brand new one, but the difference might be less than would be the case with a typical motor car – since cars attract a notoriously high rate of depreciation.

Some people prefer to own a vehicle that’s brand new in the knowledge nobody else has used it. Other buyers don’t feel strongly at all about such things. In other words, it often boils down to a simple question of personal preference.

Can I customise my Auto-Sleepers motorhome?

You have options to select one of many varying configurations and décor schemes – and can choose from a wide range of optional packs – such as our Premium Packs, Winter Packs, Media Packs, or Roof Options.

After purchase, you can customise your motorhome as you wish – although we’d urge a degree of caution about just how far you choose to go.

If you are planning to customise your vehicle, it’s important to use a fully-qualified and thoroughly experienced company to help. Secondly, remember that perhaps contrary to some expectations, customisation of a motorhome can actually reduce rather than enhance its resale value.

That’s because the value of an Auto-Sleepers motorhome is driven in part by its exemplary quality and superb engineering. If you start to dismantle things and replace them with someone else’s, then you may reach a point where some potential buyers and dealerships would no longer regard it as an Auto-Sleepers’ product – you may have undermined at least a part of its attraction and value.

Your biggest investment is likely to be the home you live in. But, after that, a motorhome comes in a close second as the most expensive item you might consider buying.

The truth of the matter all depends on your personal financial circumstances, of course. What is in no doubt, though, is that any such purchase requires significant expenditure, and it will be prudent to think carefully how you go about funding a new motorhome.

Your source of funds

Unless you are one of those very rare individuals with stacks of cash in hand, the funds you need to buy a new motorhome have to come from somewhere – a source involving some kind of formal process.

There are several different avenues you might want to pursue in your search for such a source of funds and here at Derby Motorhomes, we’ll try to objectively outline some of those for you.

Funding through pension cash-ins, inheritances, savings and liquidating financial instruments

Savings, investments, and even your pension pot have the potential for providing you’re the funding you need. The examples are numerous and include:

  • the rules on withdrawing funds from your pension pot have been recently relaxed and the government-sponsored website explains how you can do this once you reach the age of 60 or 65 (or age 55 if you have a workplace or personal pension);
  • use of a bequest that has been left to you in the will of a deceased friend or relative; or
  • your sale of investments through the liquidation of stocks and shares you own.

Some of these options may provide you with sufficient funding to buy your new motorhome outright – with no monthly repayments going forward.

Nevertheless, you may need to bear in mind that although these options give you immediate access to the funding you may need, neither one of them might be the most appropriate or prudent way of proceeding with your intended purchase.

If you have depleted your existing savings, investments, and reserves of cash, for example, they will no longer be there if you face any financial emergency in the future and need more or less immediate access to additional funds.

These are complicated matters, and we are by no means qualified to offer financial advice or guidance. Instead, we recommend that you consult an independent financial adviser before cashing in your savings or investments or withdrawing funds from your pension pot.

Bank loans

Depending upon your personal financial circumstances and the standing you have with your high street bank, you might want to consider an application for a standard personal loan to fund the intended purchase of your motorhome.

This will give you the cash you can then use to pay for the vehicle, whilst you repay the loan over time, through monthly repayments to the bank.

A personal loan such as this is a fairly straightforward matter, although you might find that banks are perhaps a little less free with such lending for luxury items than they might have been some 15 years or so ago. You may also need to have an excellent credit history record and find a fairly substantial deposit towards the vehicle from your own reserves.

Hire Purchase (HP) and related dealer finance

This essentially involves a finance company purchasing the vehicle which legally remains their property although you will be allowed to use it as the “registered keeper”.

You will repay the funds provider over time and once you make the final payment, the vehicle becomes legally yours.

An initial deposit – typically of around 10% of the purchase price – is generally required from the outset.

Secured loans and equity finance

A secured loan is borrowing against assets you either own or have substantial surplus cash invested in.

For example, if your home is realistically valued at £400,000 and you have an outstanding mortgage on that of £50,000, then you have £350,000 notional equity in your property. It may be possible to borrow against some of that equity in order to buy your motorhome.

In that event, you must keep firmly in mind that your home is at risk if you take out a loan secured against it and find yourself subsequently unable to make the repayments on the loan.

Summary

There is a wide range of funding options available, and we’d welcome your contact in order to clarify how we might be able to assist further.

It’s always satisfying when our own beliefs and judgments are vindicated by others.

For that reason, here at Derby Motorhomes, we were delighted to see Auto-Sleepers motorhomes yet again picking a prestigious award at a major show.

The event

The results of the 23rd Caravan and Motorhome Club Motorhome and Campervan Design Awards 2022 were published on the 23rd of February.

Judges assembled for their final decisions on the design awards during the Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), near Birmingham, in February. The design awards are one of the major industry-supported events of the year.

Where past awards have gone to Auto-Sleepers’ coach-built Broadway EB and Fairford van conversion, this year’s winning prize went to the entirely new Ford Air Camper. It walked away with the top prize for the best campervan under 5 metres in length.

Auto-Sleepers’ Ford Air Camper

As a custom conversion campervan, the Ford Air Camper is compact, easy to park, and will navigate narrow city streets or winding country lanes with equal ease and agility. It’s powered by Ford’s well-proven 170PS engine.

Its compact size, though, makes it no less a well-equipped and comfortable motorhome – one that gives you the freedom of the road yet might still offer all the possibilities and flexibility of working from home.

Custom-built by Auto-Sleepers on the timeless Ford Transit chassis, this campervan has such generous interior dimensions that it will sleep four in comfort and provide travel in style for up to five passengers.

Switching between daytime and night-time layouts is simple, quick, and straightforward.

Design Awards judging

The judges at this year’s awards had the challenging task of evaluating no fewer than 72 different vehicles – on which they were required to give their views on a vast range of features, including:

  • the safety of electrical systems;
  • ventilation systems;
  • the ergonomics of the driving cab and driving positions;
  • all-round visibility and safety;
  • driver and passenger comfort;
  • kitchen and washroom equipment and functionality;
  • air conditioning;
  • heating;
  • and a full range of other factors too – our representative list is by no means exhaustive.

Although the judges did not have to test drive every vehicle, they still got up and close and personal with their inspections at the NEC and also spent thousands of hours sifting through hard copies of manuals and online content.

The Director General of the Caravan and Motorhome Club thanked the judges and congratulated all the award winners, commenting how the event helped to make available to the buying public as much useful information as possible in a completely impartial manner – so assisting any decision for the purchase of your next motorhome or campervan.

Why awards are important

Of course, as one of the country’s leading dealers of Auto-Sleepers, Deby Motorhome is always over the moon when one of these models wins a prestigious award. But our satisfaction by no means tells the whole story.

Most important of all is the way in which results such as these exist to help consumers to decide which vehicles are likely to be the most suitable for them and to reduce their risks of getting things wrong – thanks to the fact that a panel of experts has given a very close examination and subsequent thumbs-up to these motorhomes and campervans.

That’s why we are pleased to publicise these successes and to encourage you to check out the vehicles concerned and others from the same stables. We’re looking forward to hearing from you!

Do you like apps and gadgets? In most walks of life these days, you can’t move for one app or another to show you the way, offer advice, or pluck handy information from thin air just when you need it. And, for motorhome owners, that world is no different – there are apps galore.

Each new season opens the door to a flood of new apps and to satisfy your taste for the latest – and well established – innovations in clever technology here are our suggested top 10 apps for motorhome owners.

  1. Camping and Caravanning Club apps
  • as you’d expect, this leading club for campers of all types develops and updates its own apps;
  • its SiteSeeker Campsite App is just that – it puts in your hands an app telling you the nearest campsite (out of more than 1,300 certified sites), its distance, and the facilities you’ll find when you get there;
  • two further apps – the Camping and Caravanning Magazine and an Out and About Events Listing – are available for members only;
  1. WikiCamps UK
  • this app has won several user awards and contains the largest database of motorhome and caravan parks, campsites, and places of interest in the UK;
  • provided you’ve downloaded it in advance, WikiCamps UK will also work when you’re offline in those difficult-to-reach places;
  1. Park4night UK
  • a new app recommended by Indie Campers offers an alternative listing of spots where you might want to overnight – or simply park up for a while – for an unplanned break;
  1. Campercontact
  • from the same stable comes this app that is designed for use if you’re touring Europe;
  • a quirky difference with what is otherwise a fairly straightforward listing of (more than 30,000) sites is that Campercontact lets you filter the results according to the height and length of your motorhome;
  1. Tourlina
  • another travel app with a difference is Tourlina (available for Android and iOS);
  • it is exclusively for women, lets you pick suitable travelling companions from its female-only membership, and is at pains to verify the identity and details of every registered member;
  1. Google Maps
  • it’s certainly not new – but it is constantly updated and you’re unlikely to be going anywhere without it since any android phone comes with it already installed;
  • with an inbuilt GPS, Google Maps effectively replaces any mountain of paper maps and atlases;
  1. PetrolPrices
  • the developers of PetrolPrices (for both Android and iOS) reckon that the average user can save up to £200 a year with this tell-tale piece of software;
  • you can search by postcode, town or place and filter by favourite brands to find the nearest – and cheapest – filling station nearby;
  1. Petrol
  • unambiguous by name, unambiguous by nature – except that this fuel-finder is limited to petrol stations in Italy, Germany, France, Morocco, and Spain;
  • Petrol is only available on iOS – so might be useful if you are an Apple user touring abroad;
  1. Geocaching
  • have motorhome, will explore – geocaching is another word for treasure-hunting, with caches hidden in various places around your chosen location;
  • you can create your own list of geocaches and save them for use offline, before finding and logging your “trackables”;
  1. AllTrails
  • however deep your love affair with your motorhome, it’s always good to strike away from homebase under your own steam by hiking, running, backpacking or mountain biking;
  • available on both Android and iOS, AllTrails suggests some of the best, most scenic or arduous routes, including those which are dog or children-friendly too – with a GPS tracker that lets you know exactly where you are.