FQEVO9 Posted April 2, 2009 Share Posted April 2, 2009 We are looking at planning for a 6 month family (2 +2) trip around Europe and we need lots of advise. We have found many links for camp sites, value discount card and places to visit. Our initial bigger queries are: 1) how to purchase a motorhome, in which country and what should we expect as a purchase cost? 2) are their buy back deals to reduce the risk of selling at the end of our trip? 3) what is the reccomended spec we should be looking for, we like the fold down double bed and fixed rear bunks. other key items? 4) For budget purposes, what should we budget on a monthly bases? Realise these are big items however would really appreciate any advise on the above or other important items that we have likely not thought about. Thanks DR Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
malc d Posted April 2, 2009 Share Posted April 2, 2009 FQEVO9 - 2009-04-02 11:57 AM We are looking at planning for a 6 month family (2 +2) trip around Europe and we need lots of advise. We have found many links for camp sites, value discount card and places to visit. Our initial bigger queries are: 1) how to purchase a motorhome, in which country and what should we expect as a purchase cost? 2) are their buy back deals to reduce the risk of selling at the end of our trip? 3) what is the reccomended spec we should be looking for, we like the fold down double bed and fixed rear bunks. other key items? 4) For budget purposes, what should we budget on a monthly bases? Realise these are big items however would really appreciate any advise on the above or other important items that we have likely not thought about. Thanks DR Welcome to the forum DR. That's quite a big range of advice that you're after but I've no doubt you will get a lot on here. As far as buying a motorhome is concerned, it's a good idea to visit one or more of the outdoor shows where there is normally a huge range to have a look at. (If you just visit dealers you may only see the ones they sell). Next big show is at Peterborough - April 24 - 26. I would also suggest that you get a good campsite book, such as from the Caravan Club. It very difficult to suggest vans for other people ( but no doubt you will get some suggestions) because it's a very personal choice - which is why you need to see as many as you can. As far as budgets go, that depends on time of year and where you stay. In many parts of the continent there are 'Aires' in villages and small towns where you can stop for just a few euros ( but it's best NOT to stay in the aires on motorways for security reasons). Have a good trip. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
FQEVO9 Posted April 2, 2009 Author Share Posted April 2, 2009 Thanks for your advise. Its even harder when we are planning from Dubai. Cheers DR Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Tracker Posted April 2, 2009 Share Posted April 2, 2009 So much depends on may variables so it is difficult to answer specifically - but I will try and add some helpful observations! How and in which country you purchase depends on your ability to converse and understand the rules and regulations in any particular country. A LHD van would be better in Europe but that said many of us drive a RHD van abroad with no problems whatsoever. Any van will be considerably easier to sell, and therefore worth more, in it's country of origin. Buying from a dealer is safer as far as warranty and preparation is concerned although whilst there are some very good dealers in the UK so also there are some awful ones too! Just how much a warranty is worth depends on how good it is and how easy or difficult it is to obtain recompense for a problem in a far off land. You may or may not be able to negotiate a buy back deal but if that is your plan you might also consider a long term hire which would probably come with full breakdown and repair cover. Recommended spec? How long is a piece of string? It depends what you are used to and what you feel you can live with - although do be aware that you can't beat experience in a van to highlight it's strengths and weaknesses and what seems fine on paper could turn out to be a nightmare in reality. Visit some local dealers and whilst there try and talk to their customers as these may well be experienced people who are usually very happy to share their first hand knowledge with you when asked. As mentioned, next port of call should be a big show - like Peterborough - where you will find hundreds of experienced motorhomers who will be very pleased to try and answer your questions and point you in a suitable direction. A walk round the camping area chatting to anyone who has a van similar to that which you seek can yield good information. Do bear in mind though that no matter who you talk to their opinion will be just that and you should guard against unintentionally getting the wrong advice for your very particular circumstances. Budget? How long is another piece of string? But if start with your weekly food etc spend at home and add on an allowance for diesel and campsites depending on how far and what sort of sites you expect to use. If you are going right around Europe 12000 miles is not unreasonable - divided by 30 weeks at about 25 mpg is about 70 euros a week in diesel - as an example. Don't know about sites as we never use 'em preferring Aires and wild camping but I expect with two children with washing etc and entertainment to consider and the wish to explore certain areas sites will be more use to you than Aires? That should do for starters - please come back with further questions and if you have a specific van in mind please ask for views BEFORE you buy it - and do be aware of the dreaded Fiat reverse gear issues on newer vans! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
FQEVO9 Posted April 2, 2009 Author Share Posted April 2, 2009 if the long term higher is an option is their any reccomended companies to go to? With regards to free camping, how do you fill with water and sewerage diposal? We are also looking at home schooling for the kids, if this works out then we will need a good wireless internet link, any reccomendations for coverage throughout Europe? Thanks DR Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Losos Posted April 2, 2009 Share Posted April 2, 2009 FQEVO9 - 2009-04-02 5:03 PM if the long term higher is an option is their any reccomended companies to go to? I am doing a two week hire with Elite Motorhomes, definately not the cheapest but I can PM you (after I return the 'van to them) to let you know how I managed. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Tracker Posted April 2, 2009 Share Posted April 2, 2009 FQEVO9 - 2009-04-02 4:03 PM if the long term higher is an option is their any reccomended companies to go to? With regards to free camping, how do you fill with water and sewerage diposal? We are also looking at home schooling for the kids, if this works out then we will need a good wireless internet link, any reccomendations for coverage throughout Europe? Thanks DR 1] don't know never hired - try google or the ads in magazines as a starting place. 2] Thats why it's free - it can be a problem except in France and Germany where free Aires Stellplatz abound. We always seem to manage by either finding a tap at a marina or garage or even buying bottled water. Similarly garages and marinas sometimes have loos and or emptying points and we NEVER ever dump toilet waste anywhere but a toilet or emptying point? Iniative lateral thinking and experience helps to resolve these problems. Then again there are just the two of us and it is a different ball game with four. 3] Don't know sorry. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Philjp Posted April 2, 2009 Share Posted April 2, 2009 Just a thought Family of 4 you will require 4 seats with seat belts . Beware the salesman that try to sell new vans with only 2 seat belts . Under new laws if buying a new van seat belts will be required for all passengers Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Porky Posted April 3, 2009 Share Posted April 3, 2009 We have been down your intented route recently and purchased our ideal vehicle with a view to a six month trip to France, Spain and Portugal from September. The thing is that our van would not suit everyone!! So my advice would be:- 1 Take your time and look at as many different vehicles as possible. 2 Think very carefully about your budget, both purchase cost and running cost. Bear in mind all the bits and pieces that you will need to live in your van, they really mount up in terms of money and just as importantly weight. Being over your limit runs the risk of heavy, and instant, fines in Europe. 3 Read as much as possible, Motorhome Monthly and Practical Motorhome will give you an enormous amount of information. 4 Buy "Go Motorhoming" from www.vicarious-shop.co.uk you will find answers to many of your questions in it. We did. Hope this helps. Porky well fed and happy Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
FQEVO9 Posted April 10, 2009 Author Share Posted April 10, 2009 Thanks Porky Appreciate any advise at this stage DR Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ian Stewart Posted April 10, 2009 Share Posted April 10, 2009 If you're considering renting ? I've met several people on the continent, usually American, New Zealanders or Australians, who've had motorhomes from the German company 'McRent'. All seemed perfectly happy with the service provided. http://www.mcrent.de/en/html/home.jsp Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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