What Is The Van Club and Should You Join?

Is the UK motorhome scene ready for a new kind of club? This week, Matt meets James Forrester, Managing Director of The Van Club—a fast-growing, no-nonsense community for motorhome and campervan owners who want more from their weekends away. No outdated rules, no club politics, just live music, great company, and trips that take you well off the beaten track. Matt and Keith also bring the latest from the NEC Motorhome & Caravan Show, including a surprising withdrawal from one of the industry’s longest-established names.  Plus, Matt shares a personal health update ahead of major surgery, though he’s still determined to be at the show. In the Q&A, it’s a mix of praise and puzzlers: one listener reveals a rare good-news story about a dealer that actually came through, while others ask about quirky insurance rules around factory-fitted immobilisers and what really changes when you uprate your motorhome’s weight. Hit play to find out what’s changing in the motorhome world, and why it could be time to join a new kind of club. ✅ MOTORHOME MATT APPROVED Services, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Matt mhmp.info/approved 🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCE mhmp.info/ripeinsurance 🚌 THE VAN CLUB https://thevanclub.co.uk 💰 GET FINANCE https://motorhome.finance/nec-promo-application 📲 NORD VPN - GET 4 MONTHS FREE https://nordvpn.com/motorhomematt ❓ ASK MATT mhmp.info/askmatt 🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTS mhmp.info/events 📹 WATCH ON YOUTUBE mhmp.info/watch 💬 LEAVE A REVIEW mhmp.info/review The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists. 10% off your first order with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.

It’s that time of year again. The days are shorter, the weather’s wetter, and if your motorhome is heading into winter storage—or you’re planning to travel in your motorhome during winter—you’ll want to make sure you’re fully prepared. In this episode of the Motorhome Matt Podcast, Matt and Keith share their top winter motorhome essentials, covering everything from damp prevention and rodent control to security gear and safety kit you shouldn’t leave home without. We explore the full motorhome winter checklist, including battery care, covers, gas and water tips, and how to keep your waste tank from freezing. Matt even revisits a controversial opinion on one of the hottest debated items in winter storage, and admits he’s changed his tune. Plus, we talk all things NEC National Motorhome and Caravan Show 2025, where to find us, how to claim your free orange podcast bag, and how to get a discount on your show tickets. In the Q&A, Matt tackles Malibu vs Adria motorhomes and whether a campervan sat nav shows more accurate speed than your dashboard. If you’ve ever wondered what to put in your motorhome for winter, how to stop mould in cupboards, or what chocolate can tell you about mice, this one’s for you. ❄️ WINTER GUIDE https://thatleisureshop.com/winter ✅ MOTORHOME MATT APPROVED Services, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Matt mhmp.info/approved 🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCE mhmp.info/ripeinsurance 📲 NORD VPN - GET 4 MONTHS FREE https://nordvpn.com/motorhomematt 🚐 RV SUPERCENTRE rvsupercentre.co.uk 🛒 PRODUCT OF THE WEEK - FREE OVER £35 https://thatleisureshop.com/products/kontrollavenderminimoisturetrap ❓ ASK MATT mhmp.info/askmatt 🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTS mhmp.info/events 📹 WATCH ON YOUTUBE mhmp.info/watch 💬 LEAVE A REVIEW mhmp.info/review The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists. 10% off your first order with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.

Thinking of buying a motorhome? One of the biggest questions you’ll face is whether to go new or used. In this episode of the Motorhome Matt Podcast, recorded live at the Southwest Motorhome and Campervan Show, Matt gets into a lively debate with two experienced dealers and a leading industry journalist, each offering a very different take on the question. Matt is joined on stage by Sarah Foord (Southwest Motorhomes), Tom Lower (Somerset Motorhome Centre), and Peter Vaughan (Out and About Live) for an honest and open discussion about finding the right motorhome for you, the current state of the market, and what every buyer should know before making a purchase. Back in the studio, Matt and Keith cover the latest news from the UK motorhome scene, including expanded insurance options for campervans and self-builds, and the official opening of That Leisure Shop at Chelston, just off the M5. In the Q&A, Matt answers your questions on whether campervans are really less prone to damp than motorhomes, how warranty cover works for adapted vehicles, and whether you’re allowed to bring your own food into a motorhome show (you might be surprised). Whether you’re looking at brand-new models with 10-year warranties or eyeing up a nearly-new bargain, this episode is packed with dealer insight, practical advice, and straight-talking commentary on what really affects motorhome prices, values, and buying decisions today. ✅ MOTORHOME MATT APPROVED Services, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Matt mhmp.info/approved 🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCE mhmp.info/ripeinsurance 🚐 RV SUPERCENTRE rvsupercentre.co.uk 📲 NORD VPN - GET 4 MONTHS FREE https://nordvpn.com/motorhomematt ❓ ASK MATT mhmp.info/askmatt 🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTS mhmp.info/events 📹 WATCH ON YOUTUBE mhmp.info/watch 💬 LEAVE A REVIEW mhmp.info/review The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists. 10% off your first order with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.

Not sure how best to fund your motorhome purchase? In this episode of the Motorhome Matt Podcast, Matt and Keith take a deep dive into the world of motorhome finance, helping you understand your options whether you're buying your first van or upgrading to your dream setup. From spreading the cost with long-term hire purchase agreements to understanding why a personal loan might not always be the right move, Matt is joined by Steven Blake from Motorhome.Finance to unpack the key differences between HP, PCP, remortgages, credit cards, and more. They also cover what to watch out for when it comes to regulated vs non-regulated lending, credit checks, and early settlement penalties. With winter storage season creeping up, Matt also shares his top tips on how to clean and protect your motorhome using a new range of products developed specifically for motorhomes and caravans. If you’re dealing with black streaks, bug splatter, or just want a proper winter prep routine, this bit’s for you. In this week’s listener Q&A, Matt answers your questions on: What makes a motorhome truly winterised Whether a diesel heater is worth the investment The best steering wheel locks for security And how to keep your solar panels working under a cover Whether you’re in the market for a new motorhome, planning your winter maintenance, or just want to avoid costly mistakes, this episode is packed with practical advice and real talk. ✅ MOTORHOME MATT APPROVED Services, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Matt mhmp.info/approved 🛒 PRODUCT OF THE WEEK www.thatleisureshop.com 🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCE mhmp.info/ripeinsurance 📲 NORD VPN - GET 4 MONTHS FREE https://nordvpn.com/motorhomematt 🚐 RV SUPERCENTRE www.rvsupercentre.co.uk ❓ ASK MATT mhmp.info/askmatt 🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTS mhmp.info/events 📹 WATCH ON YOUTUBE mhmp.info/watch 💬 LEAVE A REVIEW mhmp.info/review The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists. 10% off your first order with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.

This week on the Motorhome Matt Podcast, Matt shares a dramatic health update that’s set to change the course of 2025, and possibly the future of the podcast. Long-time listeners may remember his heart scare last year, when he narrowly avoided a serious heart attack and underwent surgery to fit stents. But what started with a persistent cough and shoulder ache has now led to something far more serious. In this episode, Matt and Keith sit down for an honest and open conversation about what’s happened since, the warning signs missed, and the major operation now on the horizon.  Joining Matt is bFrank, a wellness duo helping him prepare for his journey to recovery. They dive into some practical, impactful lifestyle changes that can benefit anyone, especially those of us who spend time on the road in our motorhomes, campervans or caravans. From easy nutrition wins to surprisingly simple fitness habits, this is about realistic health advice for real life. And in this week’s Q&A, Matt tackles a hefty fine after a ferry trip, the tricky business of towing cover, and a water system fault that’s raising a few eyebrows. ✅ MOTORHOME MATT APPROVED Services, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Matt mhmp.info/approved 🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCE mhmp.info/ripeinsurance 📲 NORD VPN - GET 4 MONTHS FREE https://nordvpn.com/motorhomematt 🚐 RV SUPERCENTRE rvsupercentre.co.uk ❓ ASK MATT mhmp.info/askmatt 🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTS mhmp.info/events 📹 WATCH ON YOUTUBE mhmp.info/watch 💬 LEAVE A REVIEW mhmp.info/review The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists. 10% off your first order with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.

What really happens to a manufacturer when the motorhome industry slows down? In this episode, Matt sits down with Bailey of Bristol’s Simon Howard for a unique and honest discussion about how one of the UK’s biggest motorhome and caravan manufacturers handles falling demand, overstocked dealers, and nervous buyers. If you’ve been wondering why new motorhomes and caravans are being so heavily discounted—or whether prices might fall even further—this is essential listening. Simon also lifts the lid on how Bailey is rethinking how they build, test, and sell their 2026 models to stay ahead in a tougher market. Also this week, Matt and Keith unveil the £5 gadget every diesel motorhome owner should consider. It could save you from a costly misfuelling disaster. And in the Q&A: Can you keep your GPS tracker powered if your van battery is disconnected? Will the UK driving licence laws finally let you drive up to 4,250kg without taking another test? And is it worth heating your motorhome during winter storage? ✅ MOTORHOME MATT APPROVED Services, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Matt mhmp.info/approved 🛒 PRODUCT OF THE WEEK https://thatleisureshop.com/products/think-diesel-misfuel-prevention-alarm 🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCE mhmp.info/ripeinsurance 📲 NORD VPN - GET 4 MONTHS FREE https://nordvpn.com/motorhomematt 🚐 RV SUPERCENTRE rvsupercentre.co.uk ❓ ASK MATT mhmp.info/askmatt 🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTS mhmp.info/events 📹 WATCH ON YOUTUBE mhmp.info/watch 💬 LEAVE A REVIEW mhmp.info/review The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists. 10% off your first order with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.

Does your motorhome smell bad? You’re not alone.  This week on the Motorhome Mattt Podcast, Matt and Keith dive nose-first into the surprisingly complex world of keeping your motorhome smelling fresh, tackling everything from smelly toilets and stagnant grey water to damp upholstery and wet dogs.  We’ve also got a look ahead to the South West Motorhome & Campervan Show, taking place this September at the Bath & West Showground. Matt shares what’s on, who’s going to be there, and why this local event is one not to miss. In the Q&A, Matt answers your questions on off-grid electrical setups, where to find a good used motorhome on a lower budget, and how to get your van professionally cleaned when your storage site won’t let you do it yourself. ✅ MOTORHOME MATT APPROVED Services, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Matt mhmp.info/approved 🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCE mhmp.info/ripeinsurance 📲 NORD VPN - GET 4 MONTHS FREE https://nordvpn.com/motorhomematt 🚐 RV SUPERCENTRE rvsupercentre.co.uk ❓ ASK MATT mhmp.info/askmatt 🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTS mhmp.info/events 📹 WATCH ON YOUTUBE mhmp.info/watch 💬 LEAVE A REVIEW mhmp.info/review The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists. 10% off your first order with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.

Is the motorhome industry stuck in its ways? In this week’s episode, Matt and Keith are joined by Martyn Ibson, a fresh face with decades of high-street retail experience who’s ready to shake things up. Find out what happens when a retail heavyweight from Next steps into the world of motorhomes, and what he really thinks about the state of the industry. Spoiler: it’s not all glowing. We also dig into what makes this week’s product pick a smart investment for your insurance and your peace of mind. In the Q&A, Matt tackles whether a Chausson could be a dream motorhome, what counts as a mod when it comes to insurance, and why fog lights and local SIM cards matter more than you might think when heading abroad. ✅ MOTORHOME MATT APPROVED Services, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Matt mhmp.info/approved 🛒 PRODUCT OF THE WEEK mhmp.info/scorpiontrack 🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCE mhmp.info/ripeinsurance 📲 NORD VPN - GET 4 MONTHS FREE https://nordvpn.com/motorhomematt ❓ ASK MATT mhmp.info/askmatt 🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTS mhmp.info/events 📹 WATCH ON YOUTUBE mhmp.info/watch 💬 LEAVE A REVIEW mhmp.info/review The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists. 10% off your first order with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.

🛡️ Get 15% off your insurance premium with Ripe mhmp.info/ripe25 Motorhome insurance: We’re required to have it, and often it’s all we’ve got when things go wrong. So, how do you make sure you pick the right cover and an insurance company that truly understands the world of motorhomes? This week on the Motorhome Matt podcast, Matt is joined by Mel Savage from Ripe to unpack what you really need to know about motorhome insurance. You’ve heard us mention Ripe plenty of times, but who are they, what makes them different, and what questions does the motorhome community have for them? From rising premiums and declined quotes to trackers that stop working abroad, we put forward your questions and comments—some great, some blunt, all honest. There’s also big news from That Leisure Shop, with a brand-new store opening just off junction 26 of the M5 in time for the bank holiday. And in our Alan Rogers Campsite of the Month feature, we head to the Austrian Alps for a site that’s just as spectacular in summer as it is in ski season. If you’re touring this year, shopping for a new policy, or want to know what’s covered (and what isn’t), don’t miss this one. See if you could save on your insurance premium with Ripe: mhmp.info/ripe25 ✅ MOTORHOME MATT APPROVED Services, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Matt mhmp.info/approved ⛺️ CAMPSITE OF THE MONTH mhmp.info/alanrogers ❓ ASK MATT mhmp.info/askmatt 🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTS mhmp.info/events 📹 WATCH ON YOUTUBE mhmp.info/watch 💬 LEAVE A REVIEW mhmp.info/review The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists. 10% off your first order with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.

🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCE mhmp.info/ripeinsurance Two hundred episodes in, and this milestone episode of the Motorhome Matt Podcast tackles a topic that could save motorhome owners thousands: warranties. He sits down with Warranty Solutions Group, a team promising to rip up the rulebook with faster payouts, broader cover, and a willingness to say “yes” where others say “computer says no.” But can they really deliver? There’s also news from Wales that might add a few pounds to your next trip, plus a clever little gadget from That Leisure Shop that’s more than it seems.  In the Q&A, Matt answers your questions on protecting your electrics, the great fridge debate, and a listener review that comes with exciting news for That Leisure Shop. If you’ve ever wondered whether a warranty is worth it, or how to make your setup work harder for you, this one’s well worth a listen. ✅ MOTORHOME MATT APPROVED Services, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Matt mhmp.info/approved 🛒 PRODUCT OF THE WEEK https://thatleisureshop.com/products/led-lantern-with-bluetooth-speaker ❓ ASK MATT mhmp.info/askmatt 🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTS mhmp.info/events 📹 WATCH ON YOUTUBE mhmp.info/watch 💬 LEAVE A REVIEW mhmp.info/review The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists. 10% off your first order with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.