Motorhome owners enjoy a degree of freedom that the rest of us can only dream of. With the help of one of these vehicles, a range of far-flung destinations can be accessed, ranging from holiday parks to mountain trails to isolated coves and bays.
Getting the most from this form of travel means picking out the right kinds of destinations. This often means looking beyond the obvious, and picking out a few hidden gems.
Choosing the Right Route: Beyond the Tourist Hotspots
You don’t need to stick with the major, overcrowded holiday parks. You can instead do your research, and pick out some more obscure attractions and facilities, before building your experience around those.
You’ll need to think about how wide and cumbersome your vehicle is, and how easily it will cope with pot-hole-blighted country roads. There are also regional restrictions on motorhome use to consider. For example, councils along the famous North Coast 500 route in Scotland have recently decided to impose a ban on motorhomes and campervans staying overnight in council car parks.
Practical Preparation: Vehicle, Documents and Insurance
Before you set off on any long journey with your vehicle, you’ll need to be sure that it’s fit for the road. This means checking that the weight is evenly distributed, that the tyres are in good condition, and that you are adequately insured. Insurance is a legal requirement for driving on public roads, but if you’re driving a motorhome, it’s often a good idea to look for more specialised motorhome insurance.
Bear in mind also that a failure to secure your vehicle, or to drain your water systems, might invalidate your insurance during winter. Check the policy, and abide by its conditions.
Hidden Gems Worth the Drive
A number of hidden motorhome gems stand out. At the top of the list should be Truro, in Cornwall, with its amazing cobbled streets, and its Gothic cathedral. There are also the coastal arches of Durdle Door, in Dorset, or the stunning scenery of the New Forest. For those looking for a slower pace, the Isle of Wight might appeal.
Getting the best from these destinations, and others, often means getting acquainted with wild camping, and the rules that surround it.
Staying Responsible & Embracing the Experience
The best hidden gems are appealing because they’re largely free from other motorhome owners. If you want to help preserve this appeal, you’ll want to adopt a ‘leave no trace’ policy, and make sure that you respect any rules and restrictions. It might also be a good idea to stay for slightly longer in a spot that inspires you. When you have your own motorhome, it’s easy to do this!
