Blog

Auto-Sleepers – probably the epitome of luxury in British manufactured motorhomes. Combine those standards of luxury and design with customer service here at Derby Motorhomes that is second to none – and you have a match made in heaven.

In the impressive stable of different motorhomes bearing the Auto-Sleepers marque, none stand out better or are more highly prized than the manufacturer’s Peugeot coachbuilt models.

The reputation gained by this particular string of motorhomes gets burnished year after year, thanks to the release of new models and variations on well-loved themes. So, let’s take a look at what 2021 brought in terms of Peugeot coachbuilt Auto-Sleepers.

The 2021 Peugeot coachbuilt range

Renowned for their styling, comfort, and luxury finish, the Peugeot coachbuilt range for 2021 simply confirms this fine tradition with motorhome driveability that is as close as you are likely to get to driving your own car.

What’s more, there is almost certain to be a model that suits you and your family’s particular needs – with a choice of highline and low-profile versions, and vehicles with short, medium, or long wheelbases.

There are currently seven basic models – offering either two or four berths – from which to choose:

  • Nuevo ES;
  • Nuevo EK;
  • Broadway EK TB LP;
  • Broadway EB;
  • Broadway EK;
  • Broadway FB; and
  • Broadway EL.

In addition, there are special editions available of both the Nuevo ES and Nuevo EK.

Initial impressions

Cool, crisp, and modern – with an evident flair for innovative yet proven design – that may be the best way of summing up first impressions of the Peugeot coachbuilt Auto-Sleepers.

With seven different models available, built on short, medium, and long wheelbases, there is no single overall design or layout. Both the short wheelbase Nuevos, for example, and mid-range Broadways, and the long-wheelbase Broadway FB all have their wash and shower rooms at the rear of the vehicle.

The Broadway EB, FB, and EL are the three models with a mid-vehicle galley while the remainder have the galley at the very rear.

The mid-range Broadway EL is the sole motorhome with a layout featuring its two single berths or double bed at the rear of the vehicle – the layout of the remaining models all feature either two or four berths in the middle of the motorhome.

Whatever the layout that best suits your particular needs, you are unlikely to find the available space inside the motorhome at all limited – instead, each model boasts an impression of spaciousness achieved through clever design.

Features

Auto-Sleepers make no ordinary motorhomes – their mission is focused on delivering the best and this extends to the impressive range of features that make life on the road in one of these motorhomes such a joy.

For 2021, those onboard features include:

  • an integrated touch-screen media console with DAB radio, satellite navigation and Bluetooth connectivity
  • all onboard facilities can be monitored and controlled from a state of the art LCD touch screen panel combined with the Truma iNet mobile system – which also features an “Auto-Sleepers Locate” online portal which remotely manages and locates your vehicle;
  • all Peugeot coachbuilts feature Grade III Classification insulation standards for heating and thermal integrity;
  • each model has a 25-litre underfloor mounted LPG gas tank installed – offering hassle-free practicality;
  • all Peugeot coachbuilts also come equipped with an eco-friendly, energy-saving 80W Solar Panel;
  • Auto-Sleeper motorhomes are protected 24/7 with the Sargent CAT 6 Tracker – for which annual subscription fees are payable;
  • Top Drive Suspension – a Top Drive semi-air suspension unit on the rear axle is designed to enhance performance and increase driving comfort;
  • the Peugeot coachbuilt models come with the 165bhp Peugeot Euro Engine as standard;
  • the optional 140/160bhp Fiat Ducato with an automatic gearbox (is also available on any model in this range);
  • an optional roof-mounted air-conditioning system will control the climate inside your Peugeot coachbuilt thanks to a Trauma Aventa Comfort unit.

If that sounds impressive – you’ll want to see it to believe it!

The Peugeot coachbuilt model for you

If seeing is believing, of course, then you’ll want to make an early date to visit us here near the centre of Derby to get up close and personal with any one of these Peugeot coachbuilts in the comfort of our indoor exhibition centre.

We can’t guarantee to tell you which model is going to be best suited to your particular needs, of course, but we’ll do everything to demonstrate every last detail, feature, and benefit of owning one of these first-class motorhomes.

It’s then down to some of the decisions you’ll make as a single traveller, couple, or family – do you want as much room as possible for you and your partner in a spacious long-wheelbase version, for instance? If you have children, your requirements for bed configurations and lounge accommodation might be different again.

Where we can offer some reassurance is the knowledge that, with so many different versions from which to choose, it’s hard to believe there won’t be one for you.

Contact us now – or plan a visit – and we’ll be happy to take this discussion further.

Auto-Sleepers is probably the foremost UK manufacturer of motorhomes – including van conversions, campervans, and coachbuilt motorhomes.

While its reputation in recent years has been founded on conversions and coachbuilt models based on the Peugeot Boxer chassis, the manufacturer also offers ALKO – or AL-KO – coachbuilt models.

So, let’s begin with a little background about Peugeot and, specifically, the ALKO chassis.

Peugeot and ALKO

Peugeot is one of the biggest and oldest names in motor vehicle manufacturing.

The French manufacturer started life way back in 1810 and the days of Napoleon I, originally producing coffee mills and then, later, bicycles. Their first true internal combustion engine vehicle (as opposed to earlier steam models) dates to 1890. The manufacturer has a long – not to mention proud – history.

AL-KO has its origins in 1931 as a blacksmith in a small village in Germany. By the 1980s, it was producing vehicle chassis based on world-class technology as the company steadily acquired other manufacturing bases around the world.

In collaboration with leading European vehicle manufacturers – Peugeot, Fiat, Citroen, Volkswagen, and Mercedes – AL-KO chassis development went from strength to strength with design and technology recognised for its comfort and safety, granting improved driving dynamics and improved driving comfort.

This is the chassis on which Peugeot ALKO coachbuilt motorhomes are produced.

The Peugeot ALKO Auto-Sleepers range

You can view both models in the ALKO Auto-Sleepers range here at our indoor exhibition centre at Derby Motorhomes – where the word Corinium equals unrivalled finesse within a palatial layout and a generously full-bodied motorhome width of 2.35m to accommodate four full-sized berths:

Corinium FB

The FB has a double berth towards the rear with a full ensuite washroom facility.

It has a fully-fitted kitchen and a spacious lounge – the latter accommodating a further double bed during its night-time layout.

Corinium Duo

In this layout, the spacious forward lounge again accommodates a double bed for night-time use, a spacious and fully-equipped kitchen, leading to a rear bedroom with two single beds and a full-width ensuite bathroom.

First impressions

With both models, the initial impression inside is one of spaciousness. As usual, Auto-Sleepers have done a marvellous TARDIS-like job of making the inside appear so much larger than the outside.

The fixtures and fittings are finished to an impeccable standard. Fitted mainly in wood trim with grey upholstery, the overall effect is one of designer elegance.

As we have noted elsewhere, the Corinium – just like every Auto-Sleepers motorhome – has a comprehensively equipped kitchen. The galley space is ergonomically designed and elegant in style. It has a real home-from-home feel all around and 2021 models feature:

  • dual fuel hob with 3 gas burners and an electric hot plate plus separate oven and grill;
  • dual level microwave oven;
  • large refrigerator with freezer compartment; and
  • 12v extractor fan with down-lighters.

Features

2021 models include a wide range of attractive features – the majority of which are standard across the whole Auto-Sleepers range, but some are optional:

  • the 165bhp Peugeot Euro Engine, for instance, comes as standard;
  • but there is also an optional 140/160bhp Fiat Ducato with an automatic gearbox (available on any model in this range);
  • Top Drive Suspension – a Top Drive semi-air suspension unit on the rear axle is designed to enhance the motorhome’s performance on the road;
  • there is Grade III Classification insulation standard for heating and thermal integrity;
  • both Corinium models also come equipped with an eco-friendly, energy-saving 80W Solar Panel;
  • each model has a 25-litre underfloor mounted LPG gas tank installed – offering hassle-free practicality;
  • Auto-Sleeper motorhomes are protected 24/7 with the Sargent CAT 6 Tracker – for which annual subscription fees are payable;
  • integrated touch-screen media console with DAB radio, satellite navigation and Bluetooth connectivity
  • all onboard facilities can be monitored and controlled from a state of the art LCD touch screen panel combined with the Truma iNet mobile system – which also features an “Auto-Sleepers Locate” online portal which remotely manages and locates your vehicle; and
  • an optional roof-mounted air-conditioning system will control the climate inside your Peugeot ALKO coachbuilt motorhome thanks to a Trauma Aventa Comfort unit.

Conclusions

Peugeot-ALKO coachbuilt Auto-Sleepers offer a real taste of comfort, spacious luxury and designer elegance combined with practicality and economy.

Of course, it’s so much easier seeing them than just reading descriptions or looking at photographs in brochures. So, why not contact us and arrange to get up close and personal for your own private viewing at our permanent exhibition halls.

We’d love to hear from you and we’re waiting to help!

The Glorious 12th !!

The Glorious 12th !

Well, it’s finally here, the glorious 12th !

Don’t worry though, you haven’t been caught up in a lockdown time-warp and the poor Grouse are safe for a good few months yet; I’m talking about today, the 12th April 2021.

Reopening to the public

Today Boris is allowing motorhome dealers, caravan dealers, non-essential retailers everywhere, caravan sites (with a few restrictions) and pubs outdoors, to finally reopen to the public.

We are all still going to have to be a little careful for a while yet though, but for a moment, let’s just savour the freedom that today, the 12th April is going to bring us all…………………

The team at Derby couldn’t wait to get going again, we haven’t been able to invite our customers into our dealership for such a long time, it almost feels like forever!

That said, we’ve been working very hard on-line helping our service customers remotely where we can and also completing motorhome sales and customer outright purchase orders too; we’ve even had the time to revamp and update our customer waiting area inside the showroom too.

Appointments

Whilst we would appreciate our visitors making an appointment to visit, we aren’t going to insist on this but please rest assured, we are each still taking every reasonable precaution possible to ensure the safety of our staff and customers.

 

Not quite normal – yet…..

Things in the showroom aren’t quite back to normal yet and visitors aren’t going to be able wander in and out of every motorhome on site – this simply isn’t safe enough just yet or practical because to keep us all safe, we will still have to sanitise each vehicle once a visitor exits it so, please, if you are visiting, respect our efforts to keep everyone as safe as possible whilst here.

We look forward to welcoming you to our dealership, soon.

 

 

 

It’s likely to be a simple financial fact of life. Statistically speaking, a motorhome is likely to be the second most expensive purchase – after your home – you’ll ever make.

Put even more simply, if you are looking to buy a motorhome, you will want to give its funding – your finance options – some especially careful thought. And that is a subject on which, here at Derby Motorhomes, we can help.

So, let’s take a look at some of the major and most common sources of motorhome finance chosen by many purchasers.

Cash

That’s the money you have to hand in your bank account, of course. You might be fortunate enough to have an instant access savings account, for instance, which can let you pay for your motorhome in a single transaction, paying by electronic transfer or money order.

In these days of relatively straitened financial circumstances, of course, savings might be few and far between – but perhaps you have been the beneficiary of a windfall through someone’s will or maybe you have just drawn down a pension lump sum.

Pros: Easy, simple, and straight forward. There are no interest costs or related charges. Neither are there going to be any credit score issues if that is an area in which you might be challenged. The vehicle becomes yours immediately after you have handed over the cash.

Cons: Depending on your overall financial circumstances, using “spare” cash to fund the purchase of a motorhome may not necessarily always be the most appropriate use of your liquid capital. Your cash is immediately gone and isn’t available for other emergency uses.

Equity release

In a sense, this is a variation on cash. It differs only in how long it takes you to release the equity and to some extent, how you do so.

Essentially, equity release involves getting hold of liquid capital you might currently have tied up in other things, then using that to purchase your motorhome.

For example, if you take out a loan based upon the equity you have in your property (equity there is defined as the difference between your property’s realistic market value and any remaining mortgage you might have on it).

Pros: once again, the funds released through such an arrangement make you effectively a cash buyer for your motorhome. Unsurprisingly, therefore, equity release can be a very cost-effective way of accessing capital

Cons: it can take a little time, involve some form-filling, and legal documents to be drafted as you try to free up your equity. Borrowing against equity is still borrowing, so you need to look closely at interest rates as per normal. It will invariably involve reference to your credit status and score. If you’re borrowing against the equity in your home, remember that your home might be at risk if you fail to keep up the repayments.

Hire Purchase (HP)

For most of us, this is a thoroughly familiar form of finance.

It works very simply. If your application is approved, the lending company will purchase the vehicle and give you permission to keep and use it as the legally recognised “registered keeper”.

After paying a deposit – typically, around 10% of the purchase price – you’ll then repay the balance over a specified period of time, but the vehicle becomes legally yours only after you have made the final repayment. During the term of the agreement, the vehicle is NOT legally yours and you must not sell it without the HP provider’s advance permission (to do so would be a criminal offence).

Pros: a thoroughly familiar form of funding. It can be more cost-effective than paying in cash, depending upon your particular overall financial circumstances. Decisions may be reached fairly quickly once your application is made.

Cons: your motorhome may be legally seized if you default on the repayments – that is, you fail to maintain the repayments in accordance with the agreed schedule. You will typically need to meet certain minimum credit risk scoring criteria.

Bank loans

Conventional bank loans have been around for a long time, of course, so the ins and outs of borrowing from your bank are probably well understood.

Pros: it’s likely to be a familiar arrangement. It is likely to be most convenient for those with an established relationship with their bank.

Cons: some banks may be reluctant to lend larger sums for what they will consider to be luxury items. Decisions can be slow and credit scoring is likely to be involved.

Summary

Although we have mentioned credit scoring above, please don’t assume that you need a perfect credit score in order to obtain finance! We are authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to advise on motorhome financing options and stand ready to help you with motorhome finance even if you have a less than perfect credit history.

Why not call us for a further discussion?

It’s a question we’re often asked – just why do we like Auto-Sleepers?

It’s a straightforward enough question, after all, and at least part of the simple answer is because we recognise the skill and experience that has gone into manufacturing motorhomes these past sixty years or so. That fact alone speaks volumes about them and just one reason why we like Auto-Sleepers.

The long road to producing what has become probably Britain’s leading caravan marque began with the application and dedication of a young family business back in the early 1960s. Through a commitment to superior craftsmanship and design expertise, the business eventually evolved into the manufacturer you see today – producing the very best of British in motorhomes from its factory based at Willersey in the Cotswolds.

We like and respect the enormous amount of time, talent, and effort that continue to be applied to the manufacture of every single Auto-Sleepers motorhome. They are the qualities that shine through every motorhome produced.

Just take a look into the interior of any Auto-Sleepers motorhome and you’ll see once again why we like them so much. Not only is all the furniture, the fixtures, and fittings top-rate quality but it is also stylish and modern, handcrafted to ensure it gives you many years of pleasure and pride.

It’s clear that the people at Auto-Sleepers not only know every inch of the vehicles inside-out they must actually live with the motorhomes they produce. Only such first-hand familiarity can inform the evident knowledge of what’s going to work and what makes the fullest possible use of every corner of space within a motorhome.

There are many other reasons – many of them stemming from the fact that the range of models offers something for everyone. From the top of the range Mercedes Benz luxury motorhome to the very flexible Peugeot van conversions. Alongside those, you have the Peugeot coach-built range and the all-new Peugeot built on the AL-KO chassis.

We love Auto-Sleepers – coming up for sixty years in business

Another reason for our having taken so fondly to Auto-Sleepers is the fact that the manufacturer is a UK-based business – and that makes life just so much easier. Parts and servicing issues just disappear most of the time. Yes, there is always an exception but with Auto-Sleepers, there are not many to be concerned about.

Factory collections and a destination that is easy to get to, situated in a beautiful part of England. The English Cotswold’s take some beating for a taste of real England. Also, there is a matter of residual values and whilst every motorhome devalues over time, Auto-Sleepers remain extremely popular and sought-after.

Wanted second hand – good Auto Sleeper motorhomes

In fact, they hold that desirable appeal second hand and the trade likes them as well! We tend to find that they really do sell well. This is also an important factor for all our customers who have an Auto-Sleeper. It’s probably why so many of our customers keep coming back to us.

Selling well – great residual values

Having the ability to sell any model in the Auto-Sleepers range quickly is another good reason for choosing this marque. If a customer’s circumstances should change, for example, and cash is needed in the bank, then we would always be a potential buyer.

Need our help? Just ask, happy to help anyone

A final reason – a financial one at that – for our continuing love affair with Auto-Sleepers is that they are now part of Trigano one of Europe’s largest Leisure groups and leading European manufacturer of motorhomes.

So, there you have some of the reasons why we like Auto-Sleepers.

Holidays – The Staycation Option or, The Future of Quality Leisure Time?

So, it’s that time of year again – you know the one, the one where we used to sit together, as a family, group of friends or couple, glass of chilled sangria in hand, holiday brochures or i-pad at the ready and try to decide where we fly off to for our annual holidays this year.

Only, this year things are going to be a little different and I don’t know about you, but for me, I certainly won’t be mask-on, boarding a bargain, budget or charter flight with 200 hundred other excited souls, potentially coughing and wheezing in all sections of the cabin whilst sharing the same recycled air and occupying the very same seat that, less than an hour previously, was vacated by goodness knows who!

Hassle?

And once landed, there’s the inevitable problem of proving you’ve had your covid vaccinations to a boarder official who doesn’t speak English and can’t believe you’re the same person shown on your passport. Then it’s, “where did my luggage go to?” and if it turns up, “why are my y-fronts hanging out of it?”, “Now lets just try to find our bus” – it can’t be that difficult, there’s fifty of them parked up, all numbered, drivers leaning against the cabs, smoking disinterestedly while you struggle with the family’s cases then tossing them to opposite side of the luggage compartment once you finally get their attention! But hey-ho, we’re here now and off we finally go – two hours after landing.

Then, after another hour and a half of what I like to call “sight-seeing” (which is in fact sitting on a cramped, baking hot coach with fifty other assorted families and couples, tired, frustrated, bursting for the toilet and praying that your name isn’t called out for this particularly grim looking destination you’ve just stopped at), you arrive at your hotel only to find the room isn’t ready yet and when it is, it looks out over the next-door building site or municipal dump!

As a side issue, these photographers must have amazing skills as the accommodation is never quite like the pictures in the brochure or on-line, which reminds me, I must try to track down one of those photographers some-day – my passport photo is really terrible!

Great Hotel!

The water is undrinkable, the beer, cocktails and house spirits worse, the bed uncomfortable, the air conditioning doesn’t work, the neighbouring room houses a family of banshee’s who never seem to sleep; the hotel food is usually lukewarm and finally, when you take a closer look, the bedding doesn’t really seem that clean after all; the mattress doesn’t bear thinking about and the room – well, it doesn’t look to have had a thorough clean in decades!

The lifts are crammed full of holiday makers from all over Europe, all happily touching every button and surface produced by mankind while breathing and coughing across everyone within close proximity and then, while desperately trying not look anyone directly in the eyes, you’re left wondering what hygiene standards the chefs, waiters, reception, pool and bar staff apply and finally, to top it all off, social distancing is itself a very distant memory once the beer and sangria kick-in.  Happy holidays everyone!

Cruising

In fact, whilst on this subject, the very last place I could reasonably consider for a well – earned vacation right now would be aboard a cruise ship for that matter – luxurious as I’m sure they are, I couldn’t possibly imagine spending all of that time in such close proximity to a couple of thousand other poor souls also with no escape and all of their associated germs to dodge for a week or more whilst most of the above likely still applies and the added bonus of potentially becoming stranded at sea if there’s an outbreak on board and ports won’t allow you to dock!

What about any local restrictions abroad – how will you know about them? Will the shops be open, can we go to the beach, will our favourite bar be open this year, what about the curfew? Are any museums, galleries or historical sites likely to be open this year?

Then there’s the worry of getting home – what if we have to quarantine for a week or more – how much are we going to have pay for all of that and finally, please, not another week locked up with the family, please………………

Such Friendly Locals………

And if non-of this is a concern, then there’s the excursions to worry about; a coach here, a taxi there, tours around the local must-see’s (face masks and social distancing accepted of course and whilst in blistering temperatures too). Snacks and drinks in lovely little tavernas and bars where owners and staff possibly think more about tips and profits this year than anything else – after all, you’re going to be a distant memory in an hour’s time, and they lost a fortune last year!

I’m sorry if this paints a pretty awful picture and forgive me for using more than a few clichés, but tell me some of this hasn’t happened to most of us at some time or another and tell me you aren’t having exactly the same misgivings – or am I just being cynical?

Is it me?

Anyway, enough of my hand-wringing doom and gloom, but I’m just saying, there must be an awful lot of other folks out there, also of a certain age and disposition thinking exactly the same as me – come on, I can’t be the only miserable git out there who’s really concerned about spending a small fortune, not really enjoying myself and potentially catching something incredibly nasty and shuffling off this mortal coil way too early (my opinion, not necessarily that of the current lady of the house).

Eureka!

So, with all of this to the fore of my reasoning, one – word springs to mind – staycation!

However, even that has some drawbacks; where to stay-cate for example, with whom and for how long and why are the prices double what they were last year? are just a few of my thoughts.

But it doesn’t have to be that difficult, not when you could buy the freedom of a motorhome and have as many holidays as you and your spouse could possibly ever desire.

If you think about it, it’s almost the perfect solution – your very own personal space, (or isolation pod as I like to think of them), closed to everyone but you and those lucky enough to be invited in, after thorough vetting that is!

Freedom

Total freedom and flexibility, the freedom to go exactly where you want to and then do exactly what you want to do and the flexibility to do this whenever you wish and for as long as you want to, too; camp sites, wild camping, pub car parks, your friends and relatives’ driveways – it’s all very simple.

If you really think about this, a campsite could also be the perfect place to enjoy freedom and isolation.

Safety and Social Distancing

You don’t have to use the site’s facilities – toilets, showers, shops, bars etc. because your very own motorhome usually comes complete with its own toilet and shower, kitchen with cooker and fridge (sometimes a freezer too), tv if you fancy that and they can even be fitted with wind-out awnings for additional sun shelter. Some can even have gas BBQ points fitted for alfresco cooking.

You supply your own food and drinks so, nothing you don’t really want passes your lips and the shopping, if you don’t take it with you, can be bought on route or delivered directly to your door if the need or desire’s still there to socially distance.

Your neighbours are usually several meters away from your pitch with their doors on the opposite side too, so social distancing, again, isn’t going to be an issue and camp sites are usually to be found close to beautiful countryside or coastal areas – some even have fishing lakes attached and most non-motor homers would be very surprised at just how good the vast majority of modern sites really are.

Size Does Matter!

So, a motorhome doesn’t have to be huge, it can be and can also have every extra know to mankind too; but then there’s it’s size to consider, it can affect where you travel – too big and English country lanes could prove a challenge; too small and either you won’t have sufficient storage space for clothes and things or, more accurately, the love of your life will but you won’t or, joking apart, too small could potentially restrict the length of time spent away from home or end badly when, after days of constantly tripping over each other, one of you suffocates the other with a pillow during the night!

Thinking clearly and carefully about your particular needs and then having a frank discussion with a good dealer before you buy would be the best advice I can offer; please don’t take size, layout or make and model advice from a friend – no matter their good intentions, what they have suites them, but it doesn’t automatically mean that it will suit you too, you have to make your own decision this time, based on your own needs and preferences and a quality dealer really does know all the negatives and positives and will be happy to advise.

Well, to some, a motorhome could be considered as “roughing it” I suppose, but when you bother to take a closer look at most of the modern models well, nothing could be further from the truth.

Luxury

Take Auto-Sleepers for example – they are the oldest UK motorhome manufacturer – 60 years this year; every-one is hand built and quality oozes from every angle. Luxurious Belgian fabrics, quality furniture, kitchens a top chef would be proud of and space abound – even in the smallest of models.

Then there’s their fabulous standard features such as large wind-out awnings, mobile wi-fi, solar panels, re-fillable gas tanks, built-in satellite navigation systems, air conditioning – cab and habitation areas too in their Mercedes range; there’s even the option of remote, self-seeking satellite TV systems if you really don’t want to miss anything.

Contemporary Style

McLouis are another surprisingly good brand, very contemporary, very Italian with lots of style and storage space, garages abound and each sleeping and travelling at least 4 people – great for families and their price point is too – squarely aimed towards the family budget.

Imagine, what could be finer than sitting under your very-own sun awning drinking wine (or gin, beer, cider or any other favourite tipple for that matter) and simply “chilling out” whilst listening to your favourite music or reading the latest novel on your kindle?

Time to Unwind

If that’s not your “thing” then how about a day exploring the local countryside or walking and cycling to places of interest; maybe visit the local beach (social distancing permitting of course) or town centre for that all-important retail therapy hit, (if the shops are open and you have a face-mask).

Then there’s galleries and museums to consider or the local country estate, farm shop or National Trust venue – really, the list of potential activities is endless as are the wonderful places one could pitch-up in the UK alone.

You never know too, the urge to go abroad could still prove too great to resist, in which case there’s always the “tunnel” for quick, easy access to France and beyond (if we’re allowed that is) or endless ferry routes for a more relaxed trip across the water.

Imagine, a lovely warm evening, sun slowly setting, the sound of the ocean in the distance, dining al-fresco with a really great burgundy, fresh-baked French bread, a lovely cheese and a simple salad, all right on your own doorstep and for as long as you feel like it……

Great Value

And don’t forget, motorhomes are welcomed throughout the UK and Europe and both the UK and Europe are awfully big places to explore and finding beautiful, isolated spots to call your own for a few days before moving on isn’t difficult and the driving? Well, that’s all part of the holiday.

Remember too, once you have a motorhome, you also have the potential for hundreds of holidays, long or short, here, there, anywhere in fact – a long weekend or simple overnighter somewhere local or just a day out in the countryside for that matter, the choice is yours and endless!

And Finally……

So, I hope I’ve planted a seed of optimism for a brighter future this summer and holiday season; and one final fact, a motorhome is nothing like a car in terms of depreciation or residual value and if I’m honest, whilst they possibly aren’t that cheap to buy initially, they should be considered more as an investment and once owned, they will retain a huge proportion of their original value and for a darned sight longer than your average family run-around or caravan and definitely longer than your two weeks package to the sun!

You’ll definitely have so very many more memories from a motorhome holiday and adventures too so, when you sit down to consider the summer holidays, why not take a longer-term view? take a closer look at the motor home option and in particular the Auto-Sleepers and McLouis motor home ranges at Derby Motorhomes, you’re going to be very pleasantly surprised.

Staycation, in your own motorhome/isolation pod – happy holidays everyone.

By Tim Lemon, Director of Derby Motorhomes

Holidays – The Staycation Option and Future of Quality Leisure Time

So, it’s that time of year again – you know the one, the one where we used to sit together, as a family, group of friends or couple, glass of chilled sangria in hand, holiday brochures or i-pad at the ready and try to decide where we fly off to for our annual holidays this year.

Only, this year things are going to be a little different and I don’t know about you, but for me, I certainly won’t be mask-on, boarding a bargain, budget or charter flight with 200 hundred other excited souls, potentially coughing and wheezing in all sections of the cabin whilst sharing the same recycled air and occupying the very same seat that, less than an hour previously, was vacated by goodness knows who!

And once landed, there’s the inevitable problem of proving you’ve had your covid vaccinations to a boarder official who doesn’t speak English and can’t believe you’re the same person shown on your passport. Then it’s, “where did my luggage go to?” and if it turns up, “why are my y-fronts hanging out of it?”, “Now lets just try to find our bus” – it can’t be that difficult, there’s fifty of them parked up, all numbered, drivers leaning against the cabs, smoking disinterestedly while you struggle with the family’s cases then tossing them to opposite side of the luggage compartment once you finally get their attention! But hey-ho, we’re here now and off we finally go – two hours after landing.

Then, after another hour and a half of what I like to call “sight-seeing” (which is in fact sitting on a cramped, baking hot coach with fifty other assorted families and couples, tired, frustrated, bursting for the toilet and praying that your name isn’t called out for this particularly grim looking destination you’ve just stopped at), you arrive at your hotel only to find the room isn’t ready yet and when it is, it looks out over the next-door building site or municipal dump!

As a side issue, these photographers must have amazing skills as the accommodation is never quite like the pictures in the brochure or on-line, which reminds me, I must try to track down one of those photographers some-day – my passport photo is really terrible!

The water is undrinkable, the beer, cocktails and house spirits worse, the bed uncomfortable, the air conditioning doesn’t work, the neighbouring room houses a family of banshee’s who never seem to sleep; the hotel food is usually lukewarm and finally, when you take a closer look, the bedding doesn’t really seem that clean after all; the mattress doesn’t bear thinking about and the room – well, it doesn’t look to have had a thorough clean in decades!

The lifts are crammed full of holiday makers from all over Europe, all happily touching every button and surface produced by mankind while breathing and coughing across everyone within close proximity and then, while desperately trying not look anyone directly in the eyes, you’re left wondering what hygiene standards the chefs, waiters, reception, pool and bar staff apply and finally, to top it all off, social distancing is itself a very distant memory once the beer and sangria kick-in.  Happy holidays everyone!

In fact, whilst on this subject, the very last place I could reasonably consider for a well – earned vacation right now would be aboard a cruise ship for that matter – luxurious as I’m sure they are, I couldn’t possibly imagine spending all of that time in such close proximity to a couple of thousand other poor souls also with no escape and all of their associated germs to dodge for a week or more whilst most of the above likely still applies and the added bonus of potentially becoming stranded at sea if there’s an outbreak on board and ports won’t allow you to dock!

What about any local restrictions abroad – how will you know about them? Will the shops be open, can we go to the beach, will our favourite bar be open this year, what about the curfew? Are any museums, galleries or historical sites likely to be open this year?

Then there’s the worry of getting home – what if we have to quarantine for a week or more – how much are we going to have pay for all of that and finally, please, not another week locked up with the family, please………………

And if non-of this is a concern, then there’s the excursions to worry about; a coach here, a taxi there, tours around the local must-see’s (face masks and social distancing accepted of course and whilst in blistering temperatures too). Snacks and drinks in lovely little tavernas and bars where owners and staff possibly think more about tips and profits this year than anything else – after all, you’re going to be a distant memory in an hour’s time, and they lost a fortune last year!

I’m sorry if this paints a pretty awful picture and forgive me for using more than a few clichés, but tell me some of this hasn’t happened to most of us at some time or another and tell me you aren’t having exactly the same misgivings – or am I just being cynical?

Anyway, enough of my hand-wringing doom and gloom, but I’m just saying, there must be an awful lot of other folks out there, also of a certain age and disposition thinking exactly the same as me – come on, I can’t be the only miserable git out there who’s really concerned about spending a small fortune, not really enjoying myself and potentially catching something incredibly nasty and shuffling off this mortal coil way too early (my opinion, not necessarily that of the current lady of the house).

So, with all of this to the fore of my reasoning, one – word springs to mind – staycation!

However, even that has some drawbacks; where to stay-cate for example, with whom and for how long and why are the prices double what they were last year? are just a few of my thoughts.

But it doesn’t have to be that difficult, not when you could buy the freedom of a motorhome and have as many holidays as you and your spouse could possibly ever desire.

If you think about it, it’s almost the perfect solution – your very own personal space, (or isolation pod as I like to think of them), closed to everyone but you and those lucky enough to be invited in, after thorough vetting that is!

Total freedom and flexibility, the freedom to go exactly where you want to and then do exactly what you want to do and the flexibility to do this whenever you wish and for as long as you want to, too; camp sites, wild camping, pub car parks, your friends and relatives’ driveways – it’s all very simple.

If you really think about this, a campsite could also be the perfect place to enjoy freedom and isolation.

You don’t have to use the site’s facilities – toilets, showers, shops, bars etc. because your very own motorhome usually comes complete with its own toilet and shower, kitchen with cooker and fridge (sometimes a freezer too), tv if you fancy that and they can even be fitted with wind-out awnings for additional sun shelter. Some can even have gas BBQ points fitted for alfresco cooking.

You supply your own food and drinks so, nothing you don’t really want passes your lips and the shopping, if you don’t take it with you, can be bought on route or delivered directly to your door if the need or desire’s still there to socially distance.

Your neighbours are usually several meters away from your pitch with their doors on the opposite side too, so social distancing, again, isn’t going to be an issue and camp sites are usually to be found close to beautiful countryside or coastal areas – some even have fishing lakes attached and most non-motor homers would be very surprised at just how good the vast majority of modern sites really are.

So, a motorhome doesn’t have to be huge, it can be and can also have every extra know to mankind too; but then there’s it’s size to consider, it can affect where you travel – too big and English country lanes could prove a challenge; too small and either you won’t have sufficient storage space for clothes and things or, more accurately, the love of your life will but you won’t or, joking apart, too small could potentially restrict the length of time spent away from home or end badly when, after days of constantly tripping over each other, one of you suffocates the other with a pillow during the night!

Thinking clearly and carefully about your particular needs and then having a frank discussion with a good dealer before you buy would be the best advice I can offer; please don’t take size, layout or make and model advice from a friend – no matter their good intentions, what they have suites them, but it doesn’t automatically mean that it will suit you too, you have to make your own decision this time, based on your own needs and preferences and a quality dealer really does know all the negatives and positives and will be happy to advise.

Well, to some, a motorhome could be considered as “roughing it” I suppose, but when you bother to take a closer look at most of the modern models well, nothing could be further from the truth.

Take Auto-Sleepers for example – they are the oldest UK motorhome manufacturer – 60 years this year; every-one is hand built and quality oozes from every angle. Luxurious Belgian fabrics, quality furniture, kitchens a top chef would be proud of and space abound – even in the smallest of models.

Then there’s their fabulous standard features such as large wind-out awnings, mobile wi-fi, solar panels, re-fillable gas tanks, built-in satellite navigation systems, air conditioning – cab and habitation areas too in their Mercedes range; there’s even the option of remote, self-seeking satellite TV systems if you really don’t want to miss anything.

McLouis are another surprisingly good brand, very contemporary, very Italian with lots of style and storage space, garages abound and each sleeping and travelling at least 4 people – great for families and their price point is too – squarely aimed towards the family budget.

Imagine, what could be finer than sitting under your very-own sun awning drinking wine (or gin, beer, cider or any other favourite tipple for that matter) and simply “chilling out” whilst listening to your favourite music or reading the latest novel on your kindle?

If that’s not your “thing” then how about a day exploring the local countryside or walking and cycling to places of interest; maybe visit the local beach (social distancing permitting of course) or town centre for that all-important retail therapy hit, (if the shops are open and you have a face-mask).

Then there’s galleries and museums to consider or the local country estate, farm shop or National Trust venue – really, the list of potential activities is endless as are the wonderful places one could pitch-up in the UK alone.

You never know too, the urge to go abroad could still prove too great to resist, in which case there’s always the “tunnel” for quick, easy access to France and beyond (if we’re allowed that is) or endless ferry routes for a more relaxed trip across the water.

Imagine, a lovely warm evening, sun slowly setting, the sound of the ocean in the distance, dining al-fresco with a really great burgundy, fresh-baked French bread, a lovely cheese and a simple salad, all right on your own doorstep and for as long as you feel like it……

And don’t forget, motorhomes are welcomed throughout the UK and Europe and both the UK and Europe are awfully big places to explore and finding beautiful, isolated spots to call your own for a few days before moving on isn’t difficult and the driving? Well, that’s all part of the holiday.

Remember too, once you have a motorhome, you also have the potential for hundreds of holidays, long or short, here, there, anywhere in fact – a long weekend or simple overnighter somewhere local or just a day out in the countryside for that matter, the choice is yours and endless!

So, I hope I’ve planted a seed of optimism for a brighter future this summer and holiday season; and one final fact, a motorhome is nothing like a car in terms of depreciation or residual value and if I’m honest, whilst they possibly aren’t that cheap to buy initially, they should be considered more as an investment and once owned, they will retain a huge proportion of their original value and for a darned sight longer than your average family run-around or caravan and definitely longer than your two weeks package to the sun!

You’ll definitely have so very many more memories from a motorhome holiday and adventures too so, when you sit down to consider the summer holidays, why not take a longer-term view? take a closer look at the motor home option and in particular the Auto-Sleepers and McLouis motor home ranges at Derby Motorhomes, you’re going to be very pleasantly surprised.

Staycation, in your own motorhome/isolation pod – happy holidays everyone.

By Tim Lemon, Director of Derby Motorhomes

Well, it’s lockdown version number 3 and we’re all still living and working in very challenging times and circumstances.

Yet again, I’d really like to express my appreciation to quite a large number of people; to all of our customers who have and are continuing to support us during this third national lock down; to our wonderful staff, the majority of whom are either unable to work presently due to restrictions or working from home and to Auto-Sleepers who remain committed to supporting their dealers and customers, almost with their hands tied behind their backs.

Our service department has been forced to close this lockdown due to the national restrictions in place and preparation of sold vehicles and collections are also therefore suspended until a clearer picture emerges of exactly when we will be permitted to reopen and begin preparation, vehicle collections and service works again.

Service and After Sales – Happy to Help If We Can

Our dealership is currently closed due to the national restrictions in place and our sales and service customers have all been extremely understanding regarding the current situation and although unfortunately, everyone is in the same boat so to speak and some of you will have problems or outstanding issues with your motorhomes and possibly feel frustration at not being able to resolve these problems, I can assure you all that here at least, we would all rather be working hard, helping our customers and not being forced to sit around at home twiddling our thumbs!

Sales Department Online via email will get you a great deal

Although we all appreciate that our dealership has to remain closed during lockdown #3, for me the saddest sight that I see most days (and the one I simply can’t get used to) is the image of our great big showroom, full of new and used motorhomes, in darkness and gloom.

That said though, at least some of our sales team are still able to continue to work (to some extent anyway), behind closed doors and in the dealership and at home on-line so, to each of our customers so far, the ones who have left holding deposits against new and used motorhomes this lockdown, again, I’d like to say another very big thank you so much – your support is as overwhelming as much as it is appreciated, thank you all.

Auto-Sleepers and McLouis Fusion

I think that it is really important to spare a thought for Auto-Sleepers, the UK’s oldest motorhome manufacturer.

Last year was a challenge to say the least; as if two national lockdowns and the chaos that the last-minute Brexit negotiations caused at ports and to supply-chains wasn’t enough, this year has not started in a very positive way either with their dealer network forced to close again.

This year is certainly going to be another challenging year for all manufacturing.

The latest lockdown and restrictions have and will cause more chaos for manufacturing and yet again we can expect parts and component supply to be a particular challenge in this industry.

Scheduling and certainty had become an enormous issue last year and will continue to be so this year too; unfortunately, not everyone appreciates just how much these issues affect UK manufacturing and all I can say is that Auto-Sleepers have continued throughout to support us and you. Maybe, sometimes responses have been slower than usual – other times, models haven’t arrived on time but throughout, Auto-Sleepers have done everything within their power to deliver a service to us all.

Thank you, Auto-Sleepers, your hard work, dedication and support last year and this, so far, has been massive and appreciated.

The Derby Motorhomes Team

Finally, I’d like to say a massive thank you to the unbelievable team that work here in Derby.

We’ve all been together as a group for a very long time; no single individual is more important than another. Everyone plays a vital part in our success and the hard work and dedication usually shown by every single member of our team is an inspiration and although we all know how difficult last year was and this year is likely to be, each has always got on with their work and done their very best for us all.

On that final note I would simply like to assure everyone that Derby Motorhomes will continue to do everything we can to support our customers both old and new during these difficult times; thank you for supporting us, please continue to do so in the coming year and we will continue to support you.

Thank You, one and all.

February march 2018 newsletter

Tim Lemon

Managing Director

Looking for and buying a new motorhome is exciting. It can be great fun and just looking at the models on offer can really whet your appetite.

You’ll be spending a significant amount of money. Understandably, you’ll want to avoid making any errors in deciding eventually what motorhome to purchase. Of course, it is entirely up to you what motorhome you eventually choose to buy – it isn’t up to us or anybody else to tell you what is the most suitable motorhome for you.

But we do believe that it’s our primary duty is to offer you objective advice and guidance as you go through the process of selecting a motorhome. So, here are a few motorhome buying tips to help you get started. They’re based on the assumption that you’re new to motorhomes rather than a seasoned veteran of many such purchases and also that we’re discussing new rather than pre-used vehicles.

Preparatory work

Signing the bottom line for the purchase of a new motorhome is not difficult.

What’s important is the preparatory work before getting your pen out. Here we examine some of the key points, including one or two that are sometimes overlooked in the excitement of such a large purchase.

Research

Sometimes reviews of makes and models of motorhome can be difficult to interpret if you’re unfamiliar with the appropriate terminology. The same can even apply to some of the more technical motorhome buying tips.

Take some time, therefore, to thoroughly research and read-up on motorhomes, their main components and the sometimes specific language used to describe them.

No manufacturer or dealership is likely to publish negative reviews on their website about their services or a vehicle they’ve sold. Thankfully, there are plenty of unbiased and objective review sites online. Use them to check out what real buyers have thought of the vehicle you’re considering and, if possible, the post-sales service standards of the dealership.

Once you’re up to speed, look at those reviews of given models to check things such as:

  • reliability;
  • comfort;
  • driving ease;
  • running costs;
  • power/performance (this isn’t about speed, it’s about how easily the model will cope with hazards such as steep hills when fully loaded);
  • the flexibility of configuration (your requirements may change between one trip and another).

Take advice

There are specialist and generalist motorhome dealers.

The difference is usually visible in terms of whether they have the odd motorhome for sale amongst lots of other vehicle types or are clearly dedicated to motorhomes as a business. Typically, the specialists will be able to offer more focused and broader-based advice than a generalist might be able to.

Think carefully about your needs and requirements

Think about your recreation plans in general. It goes without saying that they are almost certain to be based around mobile holiday concepts and the great outdoors. However, you’ll need to think about:

  • whether this just you and your partner primarily or whether you intend to invite others (e.g. children, grandchildren, relatives, friends) to join you? That makes a big potential difference in terms of the size and configuration of the motorhome you might select;
  • your destinations. Even if you won’t ever have others with you, if you plan to use your vehicle regularly and over very long distances say around Europe, having a larger and more spacious vehicle might make more sense than opting for a smaller one; and
  • do you prefer preparing food yourself or do you see that as a chore to be avoided in favour of restaurants when on holiday? If the former, you might choose a motorhome with a top-of-the-line specification kitchen.

Here are some of the additional questions you might want to ask yourself before firming up any decisions:

  • just how often and over what sort of distances and durations, you think you might want to use your motorhome;
  • how your requirements sit with regards to the distribution of space between the driving cab and lounge areas;
  • how many berths you will require on a typical use basis;
  • your views about the running costs of the various models;
  • whether or not you are comfortable driving larger as opposed to intermediate or smaller motorhomes;
  • the level of equipment you need. Some motorhome owners like to have the ultimate in comfort and equipment whereas others prefer a slightly more camping-type experience with more modest equipment levels;
  • how much you would normally like to take with you, in terms of clothes and other possessions, when you are setting off on a trip. If that might seem a strange question, it is, of course, related to balancing things such as additional berths versus larger storage units in the motorhome; and
  • your preference for the driving experience. The engines in motorhomes and the driving seat/instrument configurations can vary significantly from one chassis to another. Some may suit you well, others perhaps less so.

The above list is far from comprehensive but it’s illustrative of how we like to get to know our potential customers so we can play a productive part in helping them to make the right choice.

Clarify your finances in advance

One of the major additional considerations is your budget.

A significant number of motorhomes are purchased outright using cash. You might have been fortunate enough to pick up a lump sum through something such as an inheritance, a pension lump sum, an unexpected windfall and so on.

However, you may wish to think carefully before spending your disposable cash in this fashion. Once converted into a motorhome, remember that your money will start to depreciate, and you also may not be able to access it quickly or cost-effectively if you need it for an emergency.

So, invest some time in planning your motorhome finance before starting to look at those vehicles and their purchase deals.

It’s often advisable to think more roundly about your finances and to look at a number of options including motorhome finance provided by a specialist. Having, for example, a hire purchase agreement in principle in your pocket might strengthen your negotiating position with dealerships.

If you plan to buy your motorhome with the help of finance (which we can help you with), how much you will be able to comfortably afford each month by way of repayments. That will also highlight the importance of your credit rating.

Typically, questions about financing your purchase fall into two broad categories:

  • understand what you can afford in terms of purchasing cost and if you’re opting for motorhome finance, how much you can comfortably repay each month; and
  • do your sums on the annual running costs of any particular vehicle you may be interested in buying. Make sure your budget includes the cost of trips in your motorhome – you’ll want to get the maximum use out of your new vehicle.

Check the depreciation

Different models may have significantly different depreciation curves. That is essentially showing how much their value from new will reduce over the years ahead.

The good news is that, typically, new motorhomes tend to hold their values well when compared to most standard motor cars. Even so, there may be variations in that depending upon the make and model you select, so this is something that is useful to know in advance.

Don’t underestimate extra comfort

It’s often worth spending what might be relatively modest extra sums to provide you with a few optional extras or even a model upgrade if it helps make the motorhome feel more like a true home-from-home.

Don’t over or underestimate your required space

There is an entire science behind estimating just how much space you will be comfortable within your motor home. The answer, of course, it varies from one buyer to another.

There are many guides that are worth consulting to try and make sure you don’t end up with a vehicle that is too small for your comfort or so large that you don’t feel easy about driving it.

Inspect, view and test drive the model of motorhome you’re interested in

It can be risky to base such a large purchasing decision on an inspection of a model a dealership tells you is “fairly close” to the one you have in mind. After your own house, of course, a motorhome is likely to be the second most expensive purchase you will ever make.

You wouldn’t normally decide to purchase a property unseen based on a viewing of one that was vaguely similar many miles away, so don’t be tempted to do the same where a motorhome is concerned.

Consider a basic familiarisation course

If you’re unused to driving a motorhome, it can be slightly intimidating initially. For example, even with modern all angle cameras in the cab, reversing can be an acquired art.

Many dealerships will be able to recommend a quick overview, familiarisation and manoeuvring course – such as those offered by both the Caravan and Motorhome Club and the Camping and Caravanning Club. It might be an idea to take one in advance of deciding on a specific purchase, as it might even influence your final choice of vehicle.

Summary

The most important of all motorhome buying tips is – take your time and avoid rushing. Getting a good fit for your situation, needs and requirements is imperative.

At Derby Motorhomes we can help you with your decision so that you find the right motorhome for you. Call us today on 01332 360222 to see how we can help!

Although winter might bring some days of unexpected sunshine, this is probably the time of year when you are thinking about putting your motorhome into some form of storage. The days are getting noticeably shorter and the clocks will be going back anytime soon, so you might be using your motorhome less often as the weather closes in.

So that your motorhome stays in peak condition, protected from the elements and other wear and tear, here are some tips and suggestions as you prepare the vehicle for winter – so that it is ready to use come springtime.

As you prepare to winterise your motorhome, bear in mind that your motorhome insurance policy may spell out certain obligations as to what you need to do when storing your motorhome. Some may also offer discounts if you store your motorhome at a recognised storage site – speak to your insurer for clarification.

Insurance considerations, for the moment, to one side, let’s consider the main areas of focus before you store your motorhome away for winter:

Storage

One of the great things about a motorhome, of course, is its versatility and the way it is more or less always ready to get out on the road for excursions even during the winter months. Depending on your lifestyle and the type of motorhome you own, however, you might prefer to think in terms of more secure, off-road storage.

The Caravan and Motorhome Club has 3,000 such pitches at various secure storage sites around the country and many of these are also accredited by the Caravan Storage Site Owners’ Association (CaSSOA) – where the level of security and safe-keeping might even earn you a discount on your motorhome insurance premiums.

Preparation

Whether you decide to winterise your motorhome by putting it into storage or keep it on your driveway ready for sunnier winter interludes, now is the time of year to give it some pre-winter care and maintenance:

  • wash and clean off the summer’s dust and debris before giving the whole vehicle a good wax – to provide that extra layer of protection that helps preserve the bodywork’s sheen;
  • remember that your motorhome needs to “breathe” when it’s not in use – air vents need to be kept open to prevent damp and mould – so avoid covering the vehicle with any type of tarpaulin;
  • lubricate mechanical parts on the exterior of your motorhome, including the door hinges – this will also help repel moisture and reduce corrosion;
  • check the tyre pressures and inflate them to the recommended working pressure, but remember that the rubber is going to deteriorate faster if the weight of the vehicle is kept on the same tread for too long – better to raise the vehicle on axle-stands to take the weight off the tyres;
  • carefully check the state of all seals around doors and windows, making sure that the rubber has not perished or become damaged – this is one of the most common sources of ingress of water, which may quickly cause very costly, longer-term damage; and
  • if there is evidence of any water ingress, make sure to trace and remedy the problem.

Mechanical

Although a full mechanical service may wait until nearer the time you next use it, prepare the motorhome for its period of storage by changing the oil and consider adding a fuel storage stabiliser (to combat corrosion and prevent the build-up of gum and varnish deposits).

Here at Derby Motorhomes, we advise against the temptation to turn over the engine by starting it too often, since this is likely to circulate the acids and sludge that accumulate in the system. If you do start it, however, make sure to run it for at least half an hour.

An altogether better solution is simply to disconnect and remove the battery, charging it regularly – perhaps with a solar trickle-charger, as advertised by suppliers Maplin.

Interior

Give the interior a thorough cleaning, too – not simply for appearances’ sake, but also to help prevent a build-up of damp or to deter pests. Food and crumbs that have accumulated during summer outings present an irresistible treat to mice and other pests during the winter months. So, remove all food from the fridge, clean the inside thoroughly and leave the door ajar.

A quick checklist of further good housekeeping points for the interior of your motorhome includes:

  • draining down all water systems and blowing compressed air through the pipes to ensure that every last drop has been expelled;
  • this is an essential precaution, since any water that freezes in cold weather may burst not only the pipes and storage tanks but also the fittings;
  • disconnect and remove the auxiliary battery or batteries for storage in a dry place where they will not freeze and remember to keep them charged since cold weather shortens their effective working life;
  • disconnect and remove any gas (butane or propane) cylinders and store in a safe and dry place;
  • take out all the bedding and soft furnishings, wash or dry clean it and store it indoors at home.

Ventilation

One of the trickier issues is maintaining ventilation – to discourage the spread of damp and mould – whilst at the same time weather-proofing those openings to prevent insects and other pests from getting in.

Larger ventilation portals, for example, might be covered up with plastic or polythene which is simply taped into place.

Awnings

Ensure that any awnings have been thoroughly dried so that they can be rolled up and put away until they are needed in the spring or summer.

Checks

Whether it is sitting on the driveway at home, or in more permanent storage, visit your motorhome from time to time and, if possible, take it out for a drive, to help even out wear on the tyres that have been bearing the weight of the vehicle for all this time.

Regularly check tyre pressures, oil, brake, and clutch fluids.

Ready for the next season

A little care now, as you winterise your motorhome, may help to ensure it is ready for another season of faithful service come the springtime.