First Time Buyer Guide: How To Pick Your New Motorhome

If you’re a first-time motorhome buyer, it’s possible that you might feel a little overwhelmed. There are so many manufacturers, models, brands and layouts available that choosing exactly the right vehicle to create the lifestyle you want can be daunting. Whether you’re dreaming of romantic weekends away in the countryside or longer road trips across the UK and beyond, getting started with the right motorhomes will make all the difference.

This edition of our blog is designed to be your guide to everything you need to know about choosing your first motorhome. We’ll look at the options of buying new or used, and we’ll explore the best brands, to planning your first adventure and how dealerships like Lowdhams support you every step of the way – we’ve got you covered.

New or used motorhomes for beginners

One of the very first decisions you’ll face as a motorhomer is whether to buy a new or used model. When you’re a first-time buyer, both options actually come with their own advantages, so it’s worth weighing them up against personal needs and budget.

• New motorhomes: Buying new motorhomes for sale is incredibly appealing, for a few key reasons. Firstly, your vehicle is likely to include the latest features and technology, from modern kitchen fittings and safety upgrades to fuel-efficient engines. You can sometimes customise elements (such as upholstery, storage options and layout, depending on the manufacturer), so you can fashion your new motorhome to reflect your own style. New models often come with warranties, which offer peace of mind and you can also, of course, enjoy the reassurance that your motorhome is ‘box fresh’ and hasn’t had any prior wear and tear. There’s also something indefinably special about being the very first owner of something! You can explore a wide range of new motorhomes for sale at Lowdhams and start your journey with full confidence.

• Used motorhomes: If budget is a major factor in your purchase, opting for used may be the smart choice. Pre-owned motorhomes offer excellent value for money, particularly if you’re still trying to figure out what you want from your set-up. You’ll be able to find plenty of well-maintained and relatively new models that have already depreciated in value (meaning you get ‘more motorhome for your money’). You can explore a wide range of used motorhomes for sale at Lowdhams, and enjoy your first journey in full confidence of your quality vehicle.

There are literally dozens of motorhome brands on the market these days, and so picking just the right one can be tricky. For beginners, it’s wise to start with brands which are well known for their reliability, comfort and user-friendliness. At Lowdhams we stock motorhomes from a choice of brands including Swift, Dethleffs, Chausson and Hymer, which are popular amongst first-time buyers.

• Swift: This household name in British motorhomes offers exceptional build quality and comfort. Swift entry-level models are ideal for newcomers, often featuring everything you need without absolutely overwhelming you with tech. Swift also boasts excellent customer service and a wide support network across the UK.

• Chausson: For more than 40 years Chausson motorhomes have offered motorhome innovations which have become industry benchmarks. Whether you’re looking for a vehicle for the whole family or something compact for solo explorations or romantic getaways, Chausson motorhomes can meet all preferences, and budgets.

• Dethleffs: With more than 90 years in the leisure vehicle industry, Dethleffs is one of the most established and well respected manufacturers of motorhomes. Featuring award-winning designs, outstanding quality and exceptional value, Dethleffs provides a range of exceptional vehicles to satisfy every kind of traveller.

• Hymer: The original inventor of the motorhome, Hymer has led the leisure industry since the late 1950s, always showcasing innovation and technical advancement. Lowdhams is particularly proud to have been associated with Hymer for more than two decades, offering high quality Hymer motorhomes which ensure our customers can enjoy the ultimate experience on their journeys.

• Malibu: These incredible motorhomes from Carthago provide a leisure experience to be loved. Originating in Germany, Malibu offers a premium range of coachbuilt motorhomes and robust A-class models. With a separate cab, coachbuilt motorhomes provide plenty of practical components while A-class models offer more space and comfort. Check out the Lowdhams range of Malibu motorhomes.

• Sunlight: Europe’s number one brand of motorhomes is designed and manufactured in Germany, and caters to a range of travel enthusiasts. With practical layouts offering an efficient use of space, Sunlight motorhomes are a popular choice for Lowdhams customers seeking a reliable and comfortable travel experience.

Lowdhams offers new models of these top-tier brands plus many more in our used motorhomes stock, giving first-time motorhome buyers unparalleled access to a wide range of models that can suit every budget and lifestyle.

Once you’ve chosen your first motorhome, it’s time to put it to the test! It’s important not to feel over-confident and rush into some grand European adventure just yet. Start with a shorter journey as this is often the best way to ease into motorhome life.

• Close to home: Pick a destination that’s around a couple of hours from where you live. That way, if anything goes wrong – or you forget something essential – you’re never too far from familiar ground.

• Fully serviced site: For your first outing, opt to stay on a campsite which has full facilities (ie. electric hook-ups, showers, toilets and freshwater access). Many newcomers underestimate how much easier these things makes the lifestyle, especially while you’re still getting used to operating your vehicle’s internal systems.

• Pack smart: Make yourself a checklist ahead of time and don’t excess pack. Stick to the essentials. Focus on cooking basics, bedding, clothes for all weathers – and a good torch! Remember, space in a motorhome is more limited than you might be used to, so overpacking is a common beginner mistake.

• Practice makes perfect: Use this debut trip as a test run for future adventures. Practice setting up your pitch, hooking up the utilities and using your appliances. Every trip will teach you something new. That’s part of the joy of motorhome ownership.

The upfront cost of a motorhome can seem daunting – but the good news is that there are several finance options designed to make ownership more manageable. Hire Purchase (also referred to as HP) is one of the most common finance options, and is offered by Lowdhams. You’ll pay a deposit and then fixed monthly payments over a set period. Once you’ve completed all the payments, the motorhome is officially yours. It’s a straightforward route that works well if you want to spread the cost over time without balloon payments at the end. Be realistic about what you can afford to pay each month. Don’t forget to factor in the additional costs like insurance, maintenance, campsite fees, fuel and storage (if you’re not going to be keeping the vehicle on your driveway). Contact us to find out more.

For first-time buyers, partnering with a knowledgeable and supportive dealership is invaluable – and that’s where Lowdhams comes in. With decades of experience in helping people start their motorhome journeys, we offer far more than just sales.

• Advice: Our team understands the questions and concerns of first-time motorhome buyers, from layout confusion to driving nervousness. You can expect us to provide honest guidance and product walkthroughs to help you find a motorhome model that matches your needs and your experience level.

• Resources: Lowdhams provides useful tools, tips, and information tailored specifically for beginners. Our first-time buyer page is a great place to start. It includes guides, FAQs and checklists designed to demystify the buying process.

• Aftercare: Buying your motorhome is just the beginning of your journey. Our customer care continues long after you drive off the forecourt. You’ll benefit from ongoing service support, technical help and access to workshops for maintenance and repairs.

Buying your first motorhome is a significant step – not just financially, but emotionally. That sometimes gets lost in the talk of money and making your way in a new vehicle. Buying a motorhome represents freedom, spontaneity and the chance to explore at your own pace. Whether you opt for a new or used model, whether you’re heading out for weekend escapes or longer European tours, the right motorhome will become a treasured part of your lifestyle for years to come. Visit Lowdhams either online or in person, and explore the stunning new motorhomes for sale (as well as used motorhomes, if you prefer). Start turning your travel dreams into reality – today!