Thank you all for your comments and advice. Unfortunately we won't be able to reply to them as theres already 160 comments and counting but we do read them all and appreciate it. :-)
Hey y'all ! My name is Jerry and my wife Cherri and I live in Fort Mill SC (US) and we are also looking for an RV/horse trailer combo ! We are both in Our 50"s and are retired so we are So bored with living the daydrum life in the same spot Everyday ! We are going to rent our home out and hit the road ! I admire what you all are doing ! I want to give you guys a heads up on a few things I've learned from having campers in the past one of which I still own ! Its a 33 ft tag along ! We bought a fixer upper which turned out to be a nightmare to repair ! So first thing ill tell you is Don't buy cheap RV needing repairs because I'm telling you People Will Lie to You ! Also don't settle for just any bed ! Really test out the bed you'll be sleeping on because every camper we have had the bed was horrible ! So what I had to do on this 33 footer is tear out the old bed and build a platform with drwers underneath ! We bought 2 really good twin air mattress"s the really thick ones with the baffles in them ! On top of that we put a 4 inch thick cooling gel impregnated memory foam (king size) pad which made a really comfy bed to enjoy ! Also go for LOW mileage because we have also ran into Big problems with that issue as well ! Transmissions has been the worst issue because they only have so many miles in them and they are SO expensive to repair (best to replace with new trans because repairs never last)it replace ! Make sure also that you are comfortable behind the wheel because that's where your going to spend a lot of time ! We have found that paying a little more is usually worth it because you are going to pay in the long run anyway if you buy cheap fixer upper (I PRO.MISE) ! I wish you guys all the luck in the World and I will keep yall in my prayers that the good Lord will help you find the right RV ! Sincerely, Jerry and Cherri
Considering the years you plan to travel plus live in full time, go for one with as much space as possible! Thing is, at the end of the day, you will want a comfortable place to relax in AT THE END OF THE DAY! Lol! And Don’t be afraid of a motor home! They are a dream to drive actually! Take one for a test drive before you rule it out completely.
Having lived in an RV full time I think you have to ask your self 1st, how long do you plan to live in it? If just a few years, go cheap. Longer, buy as new as you can. We have a 24f and its big enough for me and the wife and dog. In a van it can get pretty rough when you have bad weather. 2nd, repair cost on a older one and how much are you willing to repair and replace.
Mazzy, When it comes to the ownership of vehicles, always go with low mileage. The wear and tear on a motor-home that has to carry extra weight (the cab and all the inside extras) more quickly wears out the bearings, shocks, springs, wheel bearings, and all the major drive train components. You do not want to be stranded out in nowhere-land with a high-mileage motor-home that looks pretty in the inside, yet leaves you in the rain.. Always go with low mileage!! Repeat after me: "Always go with low mileage!!" You can fix up the inside an older motor-home to the way you like it. But, the motor is the most import component that you can not fix on your own.!
I would go for the used one as long as it had all the extras in it and lower mileage that way you get what you want and dont have to pay extra with a new one
Buy with your heart and not your wallet. Buy the newest van you can afford! We bought a brand new caravan after looking at 2nd hand ones for a while. So glad I did. We get a lot of enjoyment from knowing we have what we like. For me I’m not gonna get the same satisfaction from sitting in an average van thinking about all the money I’ve saved.
Not an easy question, as you are finding out. There are so many points to consider. Of course, in most cases, a new model will have a warranty to take care of any problems (though one must be careful, as the warranty may only cover certain aspects of the vehicle) and there may, in fact, be some limited warranties on older models. Personally, I might look at a little older, but which doesn't show extensive wear and usage and simply budget for repairs that may come up. Though it is a vehicle, the concept of home ownership is essentially the same as normal repairs are part of the process. Good Luck! and look forward to seeing Great Britain through you two!
If you decide to get a used one make sure you have an independent mechanic that specializes in motor homes look it over and give you his evaluation. Some people that buy them and don't use them forget to winterize them and they may have hidden problems.
Buy a newish used. Don't worry about the mileage, most are based on commercials easily capable of stella mileage. Service history is important though. You really need to decide in your favourite layout. How will you use it? Can you put up with making up beds every night, which can irritate some (me) on longer trips. Do you need a good bathroom or are you going to use campsites a lot. Length is only an issue if you plan in parking in car parks a lot.
Thanks Bob. The problem is for the layout we want there doesnt seem to be any cheap ones as theres not many which have that design. I don't make the bed so that isn't going to be a problem :-D
We had this debate. In the end, we went for used. We like to wild camp and USE our motorhome- not be worrying about scratching the paintwork!! Ours is 3 years old and we love it- but we still throw it down dirt lanes (not always intentionally!! 😂 )
Generally diesel engines have a much longer lifespan than gasoline (aka petrol). So my thought is go for the older, and have someone re-upholster, replace the carpeting, mattresses, and cushions. Maybe you could work the makeover as part of the purchase deal if you buy from a dealer who also does that sort of work.
I`d hire one for a couple of weeks then make a decision. living in one of these full time is going to be hard, if you are going to keep your house then it`s not so much of a problem but if you`re planning to live in it permanently you need to think long and hard about it. I`ve done caravanning and camping and I`ve hired a motorhome and enjoyed it but only for a few weeks, I would not want live in one all the time, just my thoughts.
A used motor home with low mileage might be the way to go. You do not know if you would like to live in one for ten years and it will be a learning experience where you will learn what you like and dislike as you gain experience. It is important that Mazzy select the van as she will organize it and clean it. If the woman in your life is not happy, you will not be happy either. Hope that you find the right motor home for your expected travels around the U.K. I enjoy your videos as they are well produced and edited. Good luck.
Having lived in a caravan, but wanted a motor home really, i wouldn't buy with over cab bed, the need to climb out at 3 in the morning for a wee would be a pain, especially if two of you disturbing each other. I would go for something with at least six foot couch, separate loo, shower. I always like the one's with the kitchen to the rear near exit door, keep cooking smell to one end.
Remember the longer it sits the all the fluids settle, no lubricating major motor parts, also no matter how good the tires look over five years old with low miles always create problems in near future. I did just that over ten years old with low miles. Ended up costing me twice as much with added repairs within the same year as I purchased it.
Right, yes! And check tires. Here in the States they have expiration dates on them. Not sure about the UK but definitely check gaskets/seals/tires etc!!
surprisingly they do hold their value quite well do motorhomes its only in the first 3 years or so when they take the biggest hit after a few years they level off and remain good at holding their value if serviced and looked after
We have bought many caravans over the years and have bought three new. We were disappointed each time with the finish and support we received from manufacturers and dealers. When we came to buy our motorhome we decided on used from our caravan experience. You avoid the VAT depreciation as well as having the previous owner sort out the "bugs". Mileage is not really an issue with motorhomes.
we went used and high millage, and had a new running gear system and motor put in.. still under 9000 USD. I gutted out all the electronics and put in digital everywhere.. working ok for us.. I do like the approach you all are taking, search/see/say..
With age comes weathering even when parked. Personally I'm all for used as long as it's not abused just for cost reasons. Hope you're both happy and well!
Upholstery can get very expensive. Also keep in mind that the engine and drivetrain are low miles but the engine may have high usage hours in the form of idle operation to make heat and charge the battery for lighting. This happens a lot and you'll do it too if you stay in friendly car parks which don't have shore power and you aren't able to run a generator.
Congratulations Mazzy for becoming a Troll! And my 2 penneth worth is to go second hand with full service history through a dealership. New may be a headache with running it in, which you'll want to do before putting mileage on it. Second hand, new-ish, running in all done so you can just pack and go.
Hi there. The Motor in 'Motor home' is the most important part! Ten yr old with 20 thousand is weigh weigh better that a 2 yr old with 50 thousand! You can always change the interior to your liking than changing the whole engine! 20 thousand is just getting run in. Choose wisely, new isn't always best! Good luck friends. Chris.
One thing I think you have to consider is the size. Two people bumping into each other too much is going to bring about tension and frustration. It can't be avoided. And unless you have had years to grow together you are going to get on each other's nerves. Big enough for 2 people. A van is great for a single person.
You also need to take into account that the older the van the less environmentally friendly the engine will be. This means you will pay more to go into low emission zones or not allowed at all.
hi dan an mazzey ... you pay more for less if newer and less for more if older. it's all about being stuck inside during bad weather, personal space is important for you's both. i would personally choose something older and less money just to have more personal space . remember the wild camping when you packed all the extra stuff,same thing will happen with the storage in the RV most of these RV's will have low milage because they are parked most of the year. i don't comment much on your video's but i watch them all..thank you for sharing your life and adventures,
you both very delightful to watch and listen to. the only ideas I have for selecting the correct type RV is brand whether it's a Mercedes Ford Chevy Etc. when you're traveling across country you want to make sure you have the parts available and also the correct service, meaning an experienced mechanic that can work on it. only a suggestion and I really like the ones with lounging in the back. I can only imagine that close quarters and comfort will help on a long trip. keep smiling and thank you
Something else to pay attention to is the layout and functionality. Since you will be living in a small space, really analyze how you want to work and live in your home. You may even try renting a few different layouts and seeing how they work for you for a week or so. Of course repairs and maintenance are a concern, but I think it is wise to consider how you will breathe and move in the space day-in-and-day-out.
Don't worry about minor cosmetic issues of wear and tear as long as the miles are low and gas mileage is good. It's meant to be driven and in your case it will be driven A LOT. It's not meant for winning beauty contests or showing off to impress anyone. Viewers don't care if it's spotless mint condition and neither will Mazzy after the first week living inside.
Where I live in Canada, if you see an older caravan with low mileage you tend too think twice about it, because the dealer may have turned down the speedometer to look low mileage.
Mazzy, Dan..... If you have a friend or someone close who is mechanically minded or better yet a motor mechanic have them look it over and check the maintenance history on it. With 15,000 miles on it it should have had at least three services and that should be marked off in the book that came new with the vehicle. 15,000 miles is absolutely nothing on a vehicle of that type just so long as it has been maintained and cared for. Buying new is often just watching your investment go into a black hole as the day you buy it it starts depreciating fast. Buying used means someone else took the hit on it as the price you pay now will never depreciate as fast as it does for a new one ....
Hi both, as for the argument of new vs second hand - You could get a really great deal using PCP as a finance funding option. check out Black Horse for more info. A second hand one will hold its value providing the mileage is on the lowish side and its not “customised” too much. The great thing about a secondhand motorhome, will be that most “rattles” or issues will be sorted either by previous owner or by dealer. Also it will allow you to add your own stamp to the interior without fear of upsetting a finance company. If it were me, I would go 2nd hand, but spend good money. As for Motorhome vs Campervan. Its more tricky to decide. A Coach-built Motorhome will have more space, be better insulated than a camper van or van conversion. But you will struggle parking it in a car park or running around thinner lanes. Thats where a camper van / Panel van conversion wins all day long. All the best Dan
I am older (68) and have owned one new vehicle in my life. All the rest have been used (a few years). I've always done well with them. I would go lightly used.
Comfortable sleeping, table, heater, and space. It rains a lot there I hear and you'll be inside a lot. Low mileage, when running check all the fluids and look for leaks, listen to the engine should be a constant sound with no odd hitches in the idle, shifting into gears should be smooth with no clunks or noises. Check steering all the way left all the way right, no noises. Make sure everything inside works as it should. Check the extra batteries that operate stuff. Check the water tanks for shower, toilet, and sink, should be clean and no mold.
Always go used Dan. Here is the key: Hire an independent RV repair person to look it over and test *everything* on it to be sure it's okay. This is very important to avoid big expenses later. Then have a proper mechanic look at the engine and transmission before closing the deal. Do not trust a dealer. My business for the last 26 years is repairing these things. Good luck and happy hunting!
dan please try before you buy mate,,,,, its not all a bed of roses especial cleaning the shit can ;-) and the smell , make sure all the pluming works and the fridge doesn't stink, sleeping up hi means it can get hot in the summer for extra storage you can get a small car trailer to tow ,try to get one with a awning , alot of these vans look good but are cheaply made and dont last ;-( and are very expensive for what you get cheers Darren
Its like buying a house that you cant remodel. But you dont have to worry about location :) I think if you get something old youll feel like your camping where the newer ones are so nice its like being in a really nice house
Sometimes if they are older than 10 years and have extremely low mileage, beware of dried out seals or gaskets etc from it sitting to long and not being run. Just a heads up 😉👍🏼
hiya dan n mazzy hope your both well id go second hand 1, its cheaper , you can usually get a good warranty even extended warranty, there is many really good 2nd hand vans out there. good luck both of yer
If you are looking at coach-built vans check underneath for damp in the walls. They can be prone to damp so just watch out. It can be costly to repair. Good luck.
I'd go for nearly new to save a few £££. Yes an older one would be a lot cheaper, but I think the older decor would have you trading it in after a while or spending more that you'd expect to modernise it. I drive past a place called White Arches on the A45 at Wellingborough and they have loads if you're out "looking".
For the first time buyer I would recommend older with lower miles. That way you don't have so much money invested in it. Just keep looking until you are satisfied with what you like and don't settle for just anything because the price is lower. Also ask for the service record on any older model to find out how it has been cared for. Older models may have less attractive fabrics but the steel in them may be stronger. The habit of some of these companies is to go lighter and lighter on their materials until it is too thin and breaks easily. Case in point. We bought an older Prowler trailer for camping when we were newly married and while it had less attractive fabrics it was solid as a rock and had a wonderful layout. We had to move some distance so we sold it. Some ten years later, when the kids were little, we bought a brand new Prowler trailer. It was the worst piece of thin tinny junk. We stored it for the first winter outside and the roof sprang a leak and rotted the whole bathroom floor out. The companies products were now worthless. They had cheaped out on all of the materials. So you never know. Whatever you decide, if you go for a used one, have a good mechanic look it over and guarantee its soundness. We thought because our first trailer was so good and durable that we could count on the same company. We were so wrong.
Your average car will do 12000 a year ...a campervan won't do as much when there only being used every other weekend or only thought the summer mouths . So if you see a newer model high miles it might of been over to Europe and done a lot of running or could be a ex rental . It's what you like at the end of the day dan mazzy. There are some good looking vans out there I would go for something from 2010 upwards if your going to live in it you need it to last guy's good luck
IF YOUR LOOKING FOR A MOTOR HOME CHOOSE ONE WITH A END BEDROOM FIXED BED PLEASE DAN THE OTHERS ARE A PAIN TO KEEP SETTING THE BED UP TAKING IT DOWN EVERYDAY I PROMISE YOUR BETTER OFF FIXED END BEDROOM
Used nearly new with low mileage. Maintainence will run pretty high. A lot of things to break down. Stay with the lowest cost and lowest mileage. You will still have things that break down. Lowest cost would be something you pay off and step up to something better that you will like better.
Although an older option might have lower mileage the age will still have an influence on the mechanicals. I would go newer with a little higher mileage and the modern convenience. Just saying!
High mileage is only a concern if the maintenance along the way was spotty. If its had regular tune-ups, oil changes, fluid replacements etc, mileage is not as much an issue as it was 20 years ago. Engines are far better built nowadays. So inspect the maintenance each has had. Just a thought.
Good to see you both having fun at the fair. Mazzy laughed out loud at different things. Reminds me of when my dad used to take me to fun fairs in West Bromwich when I was a little girl. Then a girl friend that lived over the road from me. We used to climb over her garden wall to get in so we didn't have to pay. But one day we were caught coming out of the bushes so we said we were looking for our little dog. So was left looking, before we went on one of the rides. And had a candy floss. ❤❤😂😮😅😊🎉
Used for sure! Drive a new one off the forecourt and you have instantly lost hundreds if not into thousands of pounds. Couple of years old and low mileage, the slimline motorhomes arn' t much wider than the vans you like, compared to the bigger motorhomes Mazzy prefers and so best of both world's. 😊
I’d go new Dan. May be higher mileage, but if you’re willing to pay the money to make an old one look new and nice, you could save that fuss by getting a new and then have a bit of money left for any maintenance of the new one one? Just a thought? Great video by the way! Sam
hi mazzy & Dan👋 l liked the first one 30k low mileage too plenty of storage space. quite modern l liked the layout have you thought about a chemical toilet you can get one that turns human waste into powder too! l think mazzy liked it too so yes think about it you two will be living in it for 10 years it's what you feel comfortable in as well ☺......bye for now mazzy & Dan👋
Some friends of ours have one here in the US and they have said it's important to make sure it will be ok to live in during the winter months. I guess some are not good in cold weather.
I would rent several sizes of campers and try each one out for a 3 or 4 day outing ....that would give you an idea what works or doesn't work...would at least give you two some time in several....then check on ordering new and see if you can order at various statges of completion would allow a bit of flexibility.....remember old+repair/replacement= money+time. If you plan to live in one full time think about heating/cooling/insulation/heaters/coolers/water/black/gray tanks......good luck.
oh and one more thing....transportation once arriving at your destination...think about a tow car or will your camper be your only mode of transportation...could be a pain if you are set up then have to tear down just for a short trip.
Make sure it’s a van for all seasons with protection for your water etc from freezing or your winter months will be hell twin floor models are best by far good luck with your hunt
Whatever you will buy, my advice is to buy something with a permanent double bed. Having to change the table into a bed en in the morning the other way, will be too much very soon !!!
I would be going for one that offers best miles per gallon, or litres per km because you don't want to be spending all your money on petrol. I have a friend who drives a huge motor home and she said they only get 6 miles per gallon.
You must realize with an older camper say ten years old, the tires have been sitting for ten yrs. Tires should be replaced at about six or seven years regardless of miles traveled. Tires rot, when they blow they cause damage and could be very dangerous... Steve
Buy a brand new van (Citroen Relay or Fiat Ducato etc) and get a professional conversion company to make it exactly to your own spec. You then end up with a 55k motorhome for about 35-40k and its built exactly to your spec. No brainer.
The '18 Reg just kicked in and those of us that ordered new back in Oct\Nov are due deliveries soon, so there are a lot of Trade-ins coming on the market.
When all my children finally move out,my wife and i are getting a motor home and gonna travel till the tires fall off...That is the way i want to retire...But cant drive to england,germany and switzerland..My wife never traveled so as the husband i am.. I do have to bring her to the places ive been to..I really want to go back to koln germany and rappersville switzerland agian..I also loved how clean the countries were when i visited them..
I'd say buy used but look how much each different brand would cost to fix if it broke down... Id imagine it's like how some brands of car cost more for parts and labor and stuff.... and also Id go with a little longer since you both will be living in it so much... best wishes and happiness to both you:)
Go used, that way someone else has taken the depreciation hit! Only way I'd buy new is if I absolutely couldn't find what I wanted used. You can get a warranty on a used one if you buy from a dealer. Sometimes it pays to visit a local dealer, and even if they don't have what you want, they may be able to source it for you.
I been looking at the motorhome second hand market has I want to live in one full time i cant afford new so good used one i would consider or a good camper van they are a bit small but more practical has you can use every day and easy to park iv looked on gumtree and auto trader and some dealers too the problem i have i would have to sell my existing car but I’m still looking i seen some affordable on eBay but be careful you could get ripped off iv heard horror stories just keep your wits about you look at loads before you buy dealers are a good source of information and expertise have fun looking and the best tip is always check its HPI check it get the full history for few quid it will give you a peace of mind
YOUR BEST BUYING NOW BEFORE THE SILLY SEASON STARTS EVRYONE WANTS A MOTORHOME ETC AS YOU CAN HAVE MORE CHANCE GETTING A BETTER PRICE /BARGAIN WISE ETC GOOD LUCK N DONT FORGET FIXED BED YOUR GOING TO BE IN IT FOR A LONG TIME SO NO PUTTING THE BED AWAY ALL THE TIME ETC YOU LOUNGE IN BED AS AND WHEN YOUR TIRED ETC
Well trolls, If you can get a suitable RV you both like 2nd hand, you must get an independent vehicle report mechanical and body ! That way you can help eliminate a lemon! Perhaps also check private sales as well! One previous owner would be preferable!
Rember Dan and mazzy you can claim the camper van as a second home and when you file your taxes they will take a deduction off your taxes for the camper van
Hi Dan and Mazzy , Those Boats looked super ,Home From Home , Dan you did Really well driving the massive Boat , And Mazzy it looked like you had move into the 62 footer LOL , Loved them All , And How kind of john to show you Around, All very interesting , Thanks for sharing that was a really great video , Take Care .
I always worry about used... You have no idea if it's a lemon or not... Gotta be a reason why they were traded in... you may be buying another persons problems...
Buy used low mileage save a chunk of money. I would go for a coach built and not a van. You will appreciate the extra space as you will be living in it. Good luck.
Try joining campervan sites on Facebook there a few about but you can ask any questions and get best information and how to go about it and they can advise you on what to look for good luck 👍
Hiya you two . Some nice campers there . Just thinking the interior can be spruced up . Mechanically a low mileage for piece of mind . Reckon your going to have fun times .
Hey guys I would suggest to start looking at the motors for any signs of leaks or wear n tare. Also which costs more for repairs as y'all will be doing alot of travel trolling! check tires too! for wear. All the best!, Rocky Balboa 🥊🥊
I think a lower milage one reguardless of age as like you said its your home and it needs reliablilty.soft furnishings could be recovered and carpets replaced.Have a look at servicing costs ( as with any vehicle )and possibly look into do any models have a common downfalls in the long run eg.certain parts are hard to find/expensive to replace and are known to fail,i can think of certain cars i would stay away from knowing that when a certain part goes is very expensive on one but easier and cheaper on others.
Dan it's either new or used. Those are your only options. I think you should stop with the variations you're confusing yourself with like milage and whatnot. New or Used. you are only comparing right now BUT keep in mind this is your HOME for the next 10 years as you stated. If you make it the 10 years you obviously enjoy Camper Life and you could be looking at buying a new one at that point. If you buy New, the trade-in value or selling price will be much better then if you buy a used one. A used one 10 years from now will virtually be worthless. -my3cents
IF YOU BUY OLD WITH LOW MILAGE THE WIREING A PIPES PLASTIC RUBBER ECT WILL BE ON ITS WAY OUT BECAUSE OF AGE ,,,4,5 YEARS OLD I WOULD DO IF YOU CAN AFFORD IT 10 YEARS OLD I WOULDN'T
Bring a mechanic with you when Mazzy makes her choice to have a look at the guts. Someone you trust. And i would go used. Whats the insurance like new vs. Old?
better newer used with higher mileage than older with lower mileage if they arent driven much thats worse, all the transmission n engine seals could be dry rotted from sitting, whatever you pick be best to get a really good warranty if a transmission goes out with no warranty its going to be big bucks, 'quidz' if you can do the work yourself you will be ahead of the game, before you buy see if you can take it on 100 mile drive and see how it does.or ask about a good drive train warranty just imo advise
Thank you all for your comments and advice. Unfortunately we won't be able to reply to them as theres already 160 comments and counting but we do read them all and appreciate it. :-)
Travel Trolls TV missed you two soooo much! So happy your back!
Hey y'all ! My name is Jerry and my wife Cherri and I live in Fort Mill SC (US) and we are also looking for an RV/horse trailer combo ! We are both in Our 50"s and are retired so we are So bored with living the daydrum life in the same spot Everyday ! We are going to rent our home out and hit the road ! I admire what you all are doing ! I want to give you guys a heads up on a few things I've learned from having campers in the past one of which I still own ! Its a 33 ft tag along ! We bought a fixer upper which turned out to be a nightmare to repair ! So first thing ill tell you is Don't buy cheap RV needing repairs because I'm telling you People Will Lie to You ! Also don't settle for just any bed ! Really test out the bed you'll be sleeping on because every camper we have had the bed was horrible ! So what I had to do on this 33 footer is tear out the old bed and build a platform with drwers underneath ! We bought 2 really good twin air mattress"s the really thick ones with the baffles in them ! On top of that we put a 4 inch thick cooling gel impregnated memory foam (king size) pad which made a really comfy bed to enjoy ! Also go for LOW mileage because we have also ran into Big problems with that issue as well ! Transmissions has been the worst issue because they only have so many miles in them and they are SO expensive to repair (best to replace with new trans because repairs never last)it replace ! Make sure also that you are comfortable behind the wheel because that's where your going to spend a lot of time ! We have found that paying a little more is usually worth it because you are going to pay in the long run anyway if you buy cheap fixer upper (I PRO.MISE) ! I wish you guys all the luck in the World and I will keep yall in my prayers that the good Lord will help you find the right RV ! Sincerely, Jerry and Cherri
Considering the years you plan to travel plus live in full time, go for one with as much space as possible! Thing is, at the end of the day, you will want a comfortable place to relax in AT THE END OF THE DAY! Lol! And Don’t be afraid of a motor home! They are a dream to drive actually! Take one for a test drive before you rule it out completely.
Jane's right Dan! You need to start test driving.
Having lived in an RV full time I think you have to ask your self 1st, how long do you plan to live in it? If just a few years, go cheap. Longer, buy as new as you can. We have a 24f and its big enough for me and the wife and dog. In a van it can get pretty rough when you have bad weather. 2nd, repair cost on a older one and how much are you willing to repair and replace.
Mazzy, When it comes to the ownership of vehicles, always go with low mileage. The wear and tear on a motor-home that has to carry extra weight (the cab and all the inside extras) more quickly wears out the bearings, shocks, springs, wheel bearings, and all the major drive train components. You do not want to be stranded out in nowhere-land with a high-mileage motor-home that looks pretty in the inside, yet leaves you in the rain.. Always go with low mileage!! Repeat after me: "Always go with low mileage!!" You can fix up the inside an older motor-home to the way you like it. But, the motor is the most import component that you can not fix on your own.!
I would go for the used one as long as it had all the extras in it and lower mileage that way you get what you want and dont have to pay extra with a new one
Buy with your heart and not your wallet. Buy the newest van you can afford! We bought a brand new caravan after looking at 2nd hand ones for a while. So glad I did. We get a lot of enjoyment from knowing we have what we like. For me I’m not gonna get the same satisfaction from sitting in an average van thinking about all the money I’ve saved.
Not an easy question, as you are finding out. There are so many points to consider. Of course, in most cases, a new model will have a warranty to take care of any problems (though one must be careful, as the warranty may only cover certain aspects of the vehicle) and there may, in fact, be some limited warranties on older models. Personally, I might look at a little older, but which doesn't show extensive wear and usage and simply budget for repairs that may come up. Though it is a vehicle, the concept of home ownership is essentially the same as normal repairs are part of the process. Good Luck! and look forward to seeing Great Britain through you two!
If you decide to get a used one make sure you have an independent mechanic that specializes in motor homes look it over and give you his evaluation. Some people that buy them and don't use them forget to winterize them and they may have hidden problems.
Buy a newish used. Don't worry about the mileage, most are based on commercials easily capable of stella mileage. Service history is important though. You really need to decide in your favourite layout. How will you use it? Can you put up with making up beds every night, which can irritate some (me) on longer trips. Do you need a good bathroom or are you going to use campsites a lot. Length is only an issue if you plan in parking in car parks a lot.
Thanks Bob. The problem is for the layout we want there doesnt seem to be any cheap ones as theres not many which have that design. I don't make the bed so that isn't going to be a problem :-D
We had this debate. In the end, we went for used. We like to wild camp and USE our motorhome- not be worrying about scratching the paintwork!! Ours is 3 years old and we love it- but we still throw it down dirt lanes (not always intentionally!! 😂 )
Generally diesel engines have a much longer lifespan than gasoline (aka petrol). So my thought is go for the older, and have someone re-upholster, replace the carpeting, mattresses, and cushions. Maybe you could work the makeover as part of the purchase deal if you buy from a dealer who also does that sort of work.
I`d hire one for a couple of weeks then make a decision. living in one of these full time is going to be hard, if you are going to keep your house then it`s not so much of a problem but if you`re planning to live in it permanently you need to think long and hard about it. I`ve done caravanning and camping and I`ve hired a motorhome and enjoyed it but only for a few weeks, I would not want live in one all the time, just my thoughts.
A used motor home with low mileage might be the way to go. You do not know if you would like to live in one for ten years and it will be a learning experience where you will learn what you like and dislike as you gain experience. It is important that Mazzy select the van as she will organize it and clean it. If the woman in your life is not happy, you will not be happy either. Hope that you find the right motor home for your expected travels around the U.K. I enjoy your videos as they are well produced and edited. Good luck.
Having lived in a caravan, but wanted a motor home really, i wouldn't buy with over cab bed, the need to climb out at 3 in the morning for a wee would be a pain, especially if two of you disturbing each other. I would go for something with at least six foot couch, separate loo, shower.
I always like the one's with the kitchen to the rear near exit door, keep cooking smell to one end.
Remember the longer it sits the all the fluids settle, no lubricating major motor parts, also no matter how good the tires look over five years old with low miles always create problems in near future. I did just that over ten years old with low miles. Ended up costing me twice as much with added repairs within the same year as I purchased it.
Right, yes! And check tires. Here in the States they have expiration dates on them. Not sure about the UK but definitely check gaskets/seals/tires etc!!
Totally agree with you 👍👍
Exactly right! Older Rvs only work out for Mechanic's because they work on their own stuff for FREE. $
@@cazza1643 correct they do have dates on the side of uk ones too but not expiration. its the day they were manufactured over here
I'd always go for the second hand ones as the price drops instantly
surprisingly they do hold their value quite well do motorhomes its only in the first 3 years or so when they take the biggest hit after a few years they level off and remain good at holding their value if serviced and looked after
We have bought many caravans over the years and have bought three new. We were disappointed each time with the finish and support we received from manufacturers and dealers. When we came to buy our motorhome we decided on used from our caravan experience. You avoid the VAT depreciation as well as having the previous owner sort out the "bugs". Mileage is not really an issue with motorhomes.
we went used and high millage, and had a new running gear system and motor put in.. still under 9000 USD. I gutted out all the electronics and put in digital everywhere.. working ok for us.. I do like the approach you all are taking, search/see/say..
With age comes weathering even when parked. Personally I'm all for used as long as it's not abused just for cost reasons. Hope you're both happy and well!
Upholstery can get very expensive. Also keep in mind that the engine and drivetrain are low miles but the engine may have high usage hours in the form of idle operation to make heat and charge the battery for lighting. This happens a lot and you'll do it too if you stay in friendly car parks which don't have shore power and you aren't able to run a generator.
Congratulations Mazzy for becoming a Troll! And my 2 penneth worth is to go second hand with full service history through a dealership. New may be a headache with running it in, which you'll want to do before putting mileage on it. Second hand, new-ish, running in all done so you can just pack and go.
Hi there. The Motor in 'Motor home' is the most important part! Ten yr old with 20 thousand is weigh weigh better that a 2 yr old with 50 thousand! You can always change the interior to your liking than changing the whole engine! 20 thousand is just getting run in. Choose wisely, new isn't always best! Good luck friends. Chris.
One thing I think you have to consider is the size. Two people bumping into each other too much is going to bring about tension and frustration. It can't be avoided. And unless you have had years to grow together you are going to get on each other's nerves. Big enough for 2 people. A van is great for a single person.
You also need to take into account that the older the van the less environmentally friendly the engine will be. This means you will pay more to go into low emission zones or not allowed at all.
hi dan an mazzey ...
you pay more for less if newer and less for more if older.
it's all about being stuck inside during bad weather, personal space is important for you's both.
i would personally choose something older and less money just to have more personal space .
remember the wild camping when you packed all the extra stuff,same thing will happen with the storage in the RV
most of these RV's will have low milage because they are parked most of the year.
i don't comment much on your video's but i watch them all..thank you for sharing your life and adventures,
Go for used forget your worries about driving it Dan get big one. Make sure front seats swivel and recline.
you both very delightful to watch and listen to. the only ideas I have for selecting the correct type RV is brand whether it's a Mercedes Ford Chevy Etc. when you're traveling across country you want to make sure you have the parts available and also the correct service, meaning an experienced mechanic that can work on it. only a suggestion and I really like the ones with lounging in the back. I can only imagine that close quarters and comfort will help on a long trip. keep smiling and thank you
Something else to pay attention to is the layout and functionality. Since you will be living in a small space, really analyze how you want to work and live in your home. You may even try renting a few different layouts and seeing how they work for you for a week or so. Of course repairs and maintenance are a concern, but I think it is wise to consider how you will breathe and move in the space day-in-and-day-out.
Don't worry about minor cosmetic issues of wear and tear as long as the miles are low and gas mileage is good. It's meant to be driven and in your case it will be driven A LOT. It's not meant for winning beauty contests or showing off to impress anyone. Viewers don't care if it's spotless mint condition and neither will Mazzy after the first week living inside.
Where I live in Canada, if you see an older caravan with low mileage you tend too think twice about it, because the dealer may have turned down the speedometer to look low mileage.
Mazzy, Dan..... If you have a friend or someone close who is mechanically minded or better yet a motor mechanic have them look it over and check the maintenance history on it. With 15,000 miles on it it should have had at least three services and that should be marked off in the book that came new with the vehicle. 15,000 miles is absolutely nothing on a vehicle of that type just so long as it has been maintained and cared for. Buying new is often just watching your investment go into a black hole as the day you buy it it starts depreciating fast. Buying used means someone else took the hit on it as the price you pay now will never depreciate as fast as it does for a new one ....
Hi both, as for the argument of new vs second hand - You could get a really great deal using PCP as a finance funding option. check out Black Horse for more info.
A second hand one will hold its value providing the mileage is on the lowish side and its not “customised” too much. The great thing about a secondhand motorhome, will be that most “rattles” or issues will be sorted either by previous owner or by dealer. Also it will allow you to add your own stamp to the interior without fear of upsetting a finance company. If it were me, I would go 2nd hand, but spend good money.
As for Motorhome vs Campervan. Its more tricky to decide. A Coach-built Motorhome will have more space, be better insulated than a camper van or van conversion. But you will struggle parking it in a car park or running around thinner lanes. Thats where a camper van / Panel van conversion wins all day long.
All the best
Dan
Hi Dan and Mazzy. I'd spend the money and get brand new solely for the fact I wouldn't want someone else's headache. Thanks for the vids guys
I am older (68) and have owned one new vehicle in my life. All the rest have been used (a few years). I've always done well with them. I would go lightly used.
Comfortable sleeping, table, heater, and space. It rains a lot there I hear and you'll be inside a lot. Low mileage, when running check all the fluids and look for leaks, listen to the engine should be a constant sound with no odd hitches in the idle, shifting into gears should be smooth with no clunks or noises. Check steering all the way left all the way right, no noises. Make sure everything inside works as it should. Check the extra batteries that operate stuff. Check the water tanks for shower, toilet, and sink, should be clean and no mold.
And haggle the price! If getting rid of the car ask how much if trade in on it, might get a decent amount off the price.
Always go used Dan. Here is the key: Hire an independent RV repair person to look it over and test *everything* on it to be sure it's okay. This is very important to avoid big expenses later. Then have a proper mechanic look at the engine and transmission before closing the deal. Do not trust a dealer. My business for the last 26 years is repairing these things. Good luck and happy hunting!
dan please try before you buy mate,,,,, its not all a bed of roses especial cleaning the shit can ;-) and the smell , make sure all the pluming works and the fridge doesn't stink, sleeping up hi means it can get hot in the summer for extra storage you can get a small car trailer to tow ,try to get one with a awning , alot of these vans look good but are cheaply made and dont last ;-( and are very expensive for what you get cheers Darren
Its like buying a house that you cant remodel. But you dont have to worry about location :) I think if you get something old youll feel like your camping where the newer ones are so nice its like being in a really nice house
Sometimes if they are older than 10 years and have extremely low mileage, beware of dried out seals or gaskets etc from it sitting to long and not being run. Just a heads up 😉👍🏼
hiya dan n mazzy hope your both well id go second hand 1, its cheaper , you can usually get a good warranty even extended warranty, there is many really good 2nd hand vans out there. good luck both of yer
If you are looking at coach-built vans check underneath for damp in the walls. They can be prone to damp so just watch out. It can be costly to repair. Good luck.
I'd go for nearly new to save a few £££. Yes an older one would be a lot cheaper, but I think the older decor would have you trading it in after a while or spending more that you'd expect to modernise it. I drive past a place called White Arches on the A45 at Wellingborough and they have loads if you're out "looking".
For the first time buyer I would recommend older with lower miles. That way you don't have so much money invested in it. Just keep looking until you are satisfied with what you like and don't settle for just anything because the price is lower. Also ask for the service record on any older model to find out how it has been cared for. Older models may have less attractive fabrics but the steel in them may be stronger. The habit of some of these companies is to go lighter and lighter on their materials until it is too thin and breaks easily.
Case in point. We bought an older Prowler trailer for camping when we were newly married and while it had less attractive fabrics it was solid as a rock and had a wonderful layout. We had to move some distance so we sold it. Some ten years later, when the kids were little, we bought a brand new Prowler trailer. It was the worst piece of thin tinny junk. We stored it for the first winter outside and the roof sprang a leak and rotted the whole bathroom floor out. The companies products were now worthless. They had cheaped out on all of the materials.
So you never know. Whatever you decide, if you go for a used one, have a good mechanic look it over and guarantee its soundness. We thought because our first trailer was so good and durable that we could count on the same company. We were so wrong.
Your average car will do 12000 a year ...a campervan won't do as much when there only being used every other weekend or only thought the summer mouths . So if you see a newer model high miles it might of been over to Europe and done a lot of running or could be a ex rental . It's what you like at the end of the day dan mazzy. There are some good looking vans out there I would go for something from 2010 upwards if your going to live in it you need it to last guy's good luck
IF YOUR LOOKING FOR A MOTOR HOME CHOOSE ONE WITH A END BEDROOM FIXED BED PLEASE DAN THE OTHERS ARE A PAIN TO KEEP SETTING THE BED UP TAKING IT DOWN EVERYDAY I PROMISE YOUR BETTER OFF FIXED END BEDROOM
fixed bed rob a lot of space a better alternative is something like those hymers with a drop down bed
Used nearly new with low mileage. Maintainence will run pretty high. A lot of things to break down. Stay with the lowest cost and lowest mileage. You will still have things that break down. Lowest cost would be something you pay off and step up to something better that you will like better.
Although an older option might have lower mileage the age will still have an influence on the mechanicals. I would go newer with a little higher mileage and the modern convenience. Just saying!
High mileage is only a concern if the maintenance along the way was spotty. If its had regular tune-ups, oil changes, fluid replacements etc, mileage is not as much an issue as it was 20 years ago. Engines are far better built nowadays. So inspect the maintenance each has had. Just a thought.
Good to see you both having fun at the fair. Mazzy laughed out loud at different things. Reminds me of when my dad used to take me to fun fairs in West Bromwich when I was a little girl. Then a girl friend that lived over the road from me. We used to climb over her garden wall to get in so we didn't have to pay. But one day we were caught coming out of the bushes so we said we were looking for our little dog. So was left looking, before we went on one of the rides. And had a candy floss. ❤❤😂😮😅😊🎉
If your handy, I'd buy a box truck & convert it to an Rv your way. In the US, lots of people buy the U-Haul truck's & convert them.
My husband always says engine size "after all that's what gets you from A-B then comfort (Good luck & Happy motoring ) 👍🚍
Used for sure! Drive a new one off the forecourt and you have instantly lost hundreds if not into thousands of pounds. Couple of years old and low mileage, the slimline motorhomes arn' t much wider than the vans you like, compared to the bigger motorhomes Mazzy prefers and so best of both world's. 😊
I’d go new Dan. May be higher mileage, but if you’re willing to pay the money to make an old one look new and nice, you could save that fuss by getting a new and then have a bit of money left for any maintenance of the new one one? Just a thought? Great video by the way!
Sam
depending on price id go for gently used.
hi mazzy & Dan👋 l liked the first one 30k low mileage too plenty of storage space. quite modern l liked the layout have you thought about a chemical toilet you can get one that turns human waste into powder too! l think mazzy liked it too so yes think about it you two will be living in it for 10 years it's what you feel comfortable in as well ☺......bye for now mazzy & Dan👋
I would go for a van, easier to find a parking space, could be used everyday and no need to worry about narrow roads.
Dan make sure you get a drivers seat that swivels, believe me it provides much more flexibility and makes the RVs seem bigger inside.
Some friends of ours have one here in the US and they have said it's important to make sure it will be ok to live in during the winter months. I guess some are not good in cold weather.
I would rent several sizes of campers and try each one out for a 3 or 4 day outing ....that would give you an idea what works or doesn't work...would at least give you two some time in several....then check on ordering new and see if you can order at various statges of completion would allow a bit of flexibility.....remember old+repair/replacement= money+time. If you plan to live in one full time think about heating/cooling/insulation/heaters/coolers/water/black/gray tanks......good luck.
oh and one more thing....transportation once arriving at your destination...think about a tow car or will your camper be your only mode of transportation...could be a pain if you are set up then have to tear down just for a short trip.
Make sure it’s a van for all seasons with protection for your water etc from freezing or your winter months will be hell twin floor models are best by far good luck with your hunt
Whatever you will buy, my advice is to buy something with a permanent double bed. Having to change the table into a bed en in the morning the other way, will be too much very soon !!!
I would be going for one that offers best miles per gallon, or litres per km because you don't want to be spending all your money on petrol. I have a friend who drives a huge motor home and she said they only get 6 miles per gallon.
You must realize with an older camper say ten years old, the tires have been sitting for ten yrs. Tires should be replaced at about six or seven years regardless of miles traveled. Tires rot, when they blow they cause damage and could be very dangerous... Steve
All about the budget.. all so you need to look at the loo area will the door closed when you're on it . long legs lol .. good hunting dan x mazzy
Brilliant cos I don't have a clue I do, but heard if you buy new you can still get trouble.
Buy a brand new van (Citroen Relay or Fiat Ducato etc) and get a professional conversion company to make it exactly to your own spec. You then end up with a 55k motorhome for about 35-40k and its built exactly to your spec. No brainer.
The '18 Reg just kicked in and those of us that ordered new back in Oct\Nov are due deliveries soon, so there are a lot of Trade-ins coming on the market.
When all my children finally move out,my wife and i are getting a motor home and gonna travel till the tires fall off...That is the way i want to retire...But cant drive to england,germany and switzerland..My wife never traveled so as the husband i am.. I do have to bring her to the places ive been to..I really want to go back to koln germany and rappersville switzerland agian..I also loved how clean the countries were when i visited them..
Plus if your worried about size you soon get used to it. What about hiring one to see how you go.
I'd say buy used but look how much each different brand would cost to fix if it broke down... Id imagine it's like how some brands of car cost more for parts and labor and stuff.... and also Id go with a little longer since you both will be living in it so much... best wishes and happiness to both you:)
Go used, that way someone else has taken the depreciation hit! Only way I'd buy new is if I absolutely couldn't find what I wanted used. You can get a warranty on a used one if you buy from a dealer.
Sometimes it pays to visit a local dealer, and even if they don't have what you want, they may be able to source it for you.
I would go for low milage if you plan on living in it, reliability should be a priority, don't want your house breaking down all the time ;P
Used, but looked over very well by a mechanic. You should rent one for a weekend to see how you like them.
I been looking at the motorhome second hand market has I want to live in one full time i cant afford new so good used one i would consider or a good camper van they are a bit small but more practical has you can use every day and easy to park iv looked on gumtree and auto trader and some dealers too the problem i have i would have to sell my existing car but I’m still looking i seen some affordable on eBay but be careful you could get ripped off iv heard horror stories just keep your wits about you look at loads before you buy dealers are a good source of information and expertise have fun looking and the best tip is always check its HPI check it get the full history for few quid it will give you a peace of mind
YOUR BEST BUYING NOW BEFORE THE SILLY SEASON STARTS EVRYONE WANTS A MOTORHOME ETC AS YOU CAN HAVE MORE CHANCE GETTING A BETTER PRICE /BARGAIN WISE ETC GOOD LUCK N DONT FORGET FIXED BED YOUR GOING TO BE IN IT FOR A LONG TIME SO NO PUTTING THE BED AWAY ALL THE TIME ETC YOU LOUNGE IN BED AS AND WHEN YOUR TIRED ETC
It's always so trippy to see the steering wheel on the opposite side. lol.
Well trolls, If you can get a suitable RV you both like 2nd hand, you must get an independent vehicle report mechanical and body ! That way you can help eliminate a lemon! Perhaps also check private sales as well! One previous owner would be preferable!
Rember Dan and mazzy you can claim the camper van as a second home and when you file your taxes they will take a deduction off your taxes for the camper van
Hi Dan and Mazzy , Those Boats looked super ,Home From Home , Dan you did Really well driving the massive Boat , And Mazzy it looked like you had move into the 62 footer LOL , Loved them All , And How kind of john to show you Around, All very interesting , Thanks for sharing that was a really great video , Take Care .
I always worry about used... You have no idea if it's a lemon or not... Gotta be a reason why they were traded in... you may be buying another persons problems...
Buy used low mileage save a chunk of money. I would go for a coach built and not a van. You will appreciate the extra space as you will be living in it. Good luck.
At least you two know what you're doing. Fun vlog xx
By the first hand top-of-the-line get the best of the best dan!👍😎
Try joining campervan sites on Facebook there a few about but you can ask any questions and get best information and how to go about it and they can advise you on what to look for good luck 👍
Hiya you two .
Some nice campers there .
Just thinking the interior can be spruced up . Mechanically a low mileage for piece of mind .
Reckon your going to have fun times .
Personally, if it were me I would be second hand buying a new one depreciates as soon as it's driven off the lot. Good Luck with your search!
another thing to consider in this day and age is emissions levels older ones will pollute more (alledgedly)
you will get used to a big one quickly and learn to like the extra length and storage.....extra 3-4 feet is great. You going to be in the thing alot!
Your wise to go used for the first camper. If you fall in love with the idea you can upgrade later when you know more ..... Sreve
Hey guys I would suggest to start looking at the motors for any signs of leaks or wear n tare. Also which costs more for repairs as y'all will be doing alot of travel trolling! check tires too! for wear. All the best!, Rocky Balboa 🥊🥊
If the older ones have been stored properly then the low mileage engines better
What about a camper van auction?,nearly new could be the way forward
I think a lower milage one reguardless of age as like you said its your home and it needs reliablilty.soft furnishings could be recovered and carpets replaced.Have a look at servicing costs ( as with any vehicle )and possibly look into do any models have a common downfalls in the long run eg.certain parts are hard to find/expensive to replace and are known to fail,i can think of certain cars i would stay away from knowing that when a certain part goes is very expensive on one but easier and cheaper on others.
Dan it's either new or used. Those are your only options. I think you should stop with the variations you're confusing yourself with like milage and whatnot. New or Used. you are only comparing right now BUT keep in mind this is your HOME for the next 10 years as you stated. If you make it the 10 years you obviously enjoy Camper Life and you could be looking at buying a new one at that point. If you buy New, the trade-in value or selling price will be much better then if you buy a used one. A used one 10 years from now will virtually be worthless. -my3cents
IF YOU BUY OLD WITH LOW MILAGE THE WIREING A PIPES PLASTIC RUBBER ECT WILL BE ON ITS WAY OUT BECAUSE OF AGE ,,,4,5 YEARS OLD I WOULD DO IF YOU CAN AFFORD IT 10 YEARS OLD I WOULDN'T
Used Dan And Mazzy. Just make sure you go for a reputable dealer. Atb
I wish my missus was always smiling like yours, nice vid
the best deal i saw was the one at around 3 min, for 30k with 23k miles on it. good luck u 2
Bring a mechanic with you when Mazzy makes her choice to have a look at the guts. Someone you trust. And i would go used. Whats the insurance like new vs. Old?
better newer used with higher mileage than older with lower mileage if they arent driven much thats worse, all the transmission n engine seals could be dry rotted from sitting, whatever you pick be best to get a really good warranty if a transmission goes out with no warranty its going to be big bucks, 'quidz' if you can do the work yourself you will be ahead of the game, before you buy see if you can take it on 100 mile drive and see how it does.or ask about a good drive train warranty just imo advise
also dan are there black and grey water tank dump stations access all over the UK ? def have them show you the proper way of emptying them.