Ask Motorhome Matt: Towing Laws, Driving Licences and PCP Finance Explained

In this episode of the Motorhome Matt podcast, we're back with the latest edition of Ask Matt—your regular motorhome Q&A, tackling real questions from real van owners. From the confusion around towing weights and C1 driving licences to whether PCP finance actually works for campervans, Matt and Keith are diving into the detail with straight-talking advice. We’ve also got an important update for anyone heading to Portsmouth by motorhome. Let’s just say your ferry crossing might cost more than you think. Plus, there’s news from That Leisure Shop, as the countdown to Christmas kicks off with some brilliant festive offers. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned tourer, this episode is packed with useful insights to help you stay road-legal, avoid hidden costs, and get more from your motorhome.  ✅ 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 ❓ 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.

In this episode of the Motorhome Matt Podcast, Matt videos in from home as he recovers just weeks after major heart surgery. He shares an honest update on his triple heart bypass recovery, what the experience was like at the Bristol Heart Institute, and how it’s affecting daily life behind the scenes. But there’s more than just a health update. We cover: 🚐 Big updates from That Leisure Shop and upcoming 12 Days of Christmas offers 🎉 Celebrating 10 years of Motorhome Holiday Company, with exclusive hire deals 📅 A look ahead to the Manchester Motorhome and Caravan Show 2026, where Matt will be speaking live The episode also features a packed Q&A segment with practical advice for motorhome owners and first-time buyers, including: Best levelling ramps for a long wheelbase campervan Can you use GasStop with camping gas bottles? How one listener saved £200 on air suspension—thanks to the podcast Whether you’re recovering from surgery, need a nudge to book that doctor's visit, or just planning your next trip, this episode is full of real-life experience with helpful motorhome advice. ✅ 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 ❓ 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.

Looking for the perfect Christmas gift for the motorhomer in your life... or for yourself?  In this festive episode of the Motorhome Matt podcast, Matt and Keith head out on location to That Leisure Shop in Chelston for a hands-on tour of their favourite gift ideas for 2025.  From colourful whistling kettles to high-tech gadgets and some seriously handy travel books, there’s something for every budget and every type of van lover. One or two suggestions may even raise a few eyebrows... Plus, Rob from Alan Rogers returns with a brilliant site recommendation on Spain’s wild Costa Brava. Think water parks, cycle trails, Roman ruins, and some seriously impressive food. Planning next year’s road trip? You’ll want to hear this one. In the Q&A, Matt answers your questions on trailer registration changes that are catching travellers out on the continent, the truth about SIM cards abroad and how much payload you really need for two people on an extended trip.  Hit follow or subscribe so you don’t miss out, and visit www.thatleisureshop.com/gifts to browse the full range of gift ideas mentioned in the show. 🎁 CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS thatleisureshop.com/gifts ✅ 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 ⛺️ 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.

Thinking about buying a motorhome? Unsure about weight limits, tyres, or what insurance providers are really looking for? In this special Q&A episode of the Motorhome Matt Podcast, recorded live at the NEC Motorhome & Caravan Show, we’re answering your questions on all things motorhome. We cover common concerns like UK motorhome speed limits, whether you should go for all-terrain or camping-specific tyres, and how your motorhome’s unladen weight affects what you can legally do.  You’ll hear advice on choosing between new and used vans, the truth about payloads, and what to watch out for when trying to get your motorhome insured. There’s even a listener who managed to win a four-wheel-drive van for just £10.50 (yes, really). Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned owner considering an upgrade, or just looking for expert advice to help you make smarter decisions on the road, this episode is packed with useful tips, surprising facts, and practical guidance on owning and maintaining a motorhome in the UK. Hit play and get expert insight on motorhome ownership, buying tips, accessories, warranties, and more, straight from the show floor. ✅ MOTORHOME MATT APPROVED Services, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Matt mhmp.info/approved 🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCE mhmp.info/ripeinsurance ❓ 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.

Ever wondered what it takes to drive around the world in a motorhome? In this episode of the Motorhome Matt Podcast, Matt chats with Chris and Marianne from Tread the Globe, who left behind the 9-to-5 to explore the planet in their 20-year-old Fiat Ducato Adria Twin campervan. What began as a European road trip soon turned into an epic and inspiring global adventure across continents, weather extremes, and even a lockdown in a Turkish car park. They share how they prepared their van for long-distance overlanding, how they handled complex travel logistics like motorhome insurance abroad, and how their YouTube channel accidentally turned into a global community, with real-world impact. Think: saving sea turtles, inspiring thousands, and proving you don't need the latest van to live the dream. Matt and Keith also tackle your listener questions, including how to measure the true height of your motorhome, whether there are cleaner, greener ways to dispose of black and grey waste in van life, and a great story about affordable new-for-old motorhome insurance that might save you money. Plus, get a glimpse at what Chris and Marianne have planned next, a multi-year overland trek in their new truck camper, Trevor. This one’s got inspiration, insight, and just enough chaos to remind you why we all love life on the road. ✅ 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 ❓ 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.

Hit the NEC Motorhome & Caravan Show with Matt and Keith as they uncover the latest motorhome innovations, clever campervan upgrades, and insider product reviews. From custom builds like the Landseer Artemis to brand-new models from Bailey of Bristol, it’s a tour of what’s new, useful and worth seeing in the world of leisure vehicles. In this episode, Matt explores why a custom van owner designed her layout for “a brew with a view,” tries (and fails) to break a high-spec Slovenian camper, and gets hands-on with a British-built levelling system that’s turning heads. Plus, discover a smarter way to book peaceful overnight stops with the Park4Night “Geo-Spot” feature, and hear how Vanlife Eats is heading to Italy for a culinary adventure made for motorhomers. We also answer key questions on European and Moroccan insurance cover, spotlight the brands embracing bold colours again, and have a frank chat about the good, the bad, and the frustrating side of customer service in the industry. If you're shopping for a motorhome, kitting out your van, or just love staying up to date with what’s happening in the motorhome world, this episode is packed with insights (and opinions). Thank You to Our Show Sponsors 🛡️ 15% Off Motorhome Insurance – https://mhmp.info/rpyt 💰 Motorhome & Campervan Finance – https://mhmp.info/motorhomefinance ❄️ Free Winter Guide – https://thatleisureshop.com/winter 🌍 Free Guide to Touring Europe – https://thatleisureshop.com/europe 🔧 Motorhome Warranties from WSG – https://mhmp.info/wsg 📐 British-Made Levelling from M-Level – https://mhmp.info/mlevel 🚐 Campervan Conversions from Landseer Leisure – https://mhmp.info/landseer 🔨 Campervan Conversions from Spartan Campers – https://mhmp.info/spartan 📡 Motorhome Trackers from ScorpionTrack – https://mhmp.info/scorpiontrack ✅ MOTORHOME MATT APPROVED Services, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Matt mhmp.info/approved ❓ 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.

Coming to you live from the NEC Motorhome and Caravan Show 2025, this week Motorhome Matt and Keith dive headfirst into the future of motorhomes, uncovering what’s new, what’s changing, and what’s still missing from the industry. From clever new layouts to bold rebrands and fresh construction techniques, we explore the big moves shaping 2026, and where manufacturers might be falling behind. We caught up with some of the biggest names in the business to get their take on what’s ahead and innovative features at the show: Rob Dyer from Southwest Motorhomes talks real off-road potential with a VW-based 4x4 from Dethleffs that’s more than just a showpiece. Bürstner turns heads with a six-metre 4x4 camper and a clever sliding bathroom pod that transforms the space. Mike Lake at Aura explains how customer-led design (and thousands of fabric combinations) is fuelling their rapid growth. Adam Carmichael from Elddis reveals a new construction system that’s revolutionising their range. Geoff Scott at Auto-Sleepers lifts the lid on a major rebrand, factory expansion, and plans for their 65th anniversary. Mel Savage from Ripe shares how they’re making policy updates quicker and simpler for owners. Jody White from Hybridge Caravans takes on a 24-hour, factory-to-factory charity mission—with Loch Ness as the backup plan. Paul Kirby questions the industry’s electric vehicle readiness and why time is running out. Ryan Bowditch from Ford tackles wet belt concerns head-on and explains how Ford reached 25% of the UK market. Four years on from our first episode, we’d like to say a huge thank you for all the support, kind words, and conversations along the way. The motorhome community really is something special, and with everything we’ve seen at the NEC, 2026 could be the most exciting year yet. ✅ MOTORHOME MATT APPROVED Services, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Matt mhmp.info/approved 🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCE mhmp.info/ripeinsurance ❓ 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 do pineapple bunting, garden hoses, and petrol generators have in common? They’re all on Motorhome Matt’s no-no list. In this episode of the Motorhome Matt Podcast, Matt and Keith share the top five things motorhome owners should stop buying. From unnecessary gadgets to accessories that could do more harm than good, this practical guide will help you avoid common motorhome mistakes and save money on the road. We also head to one of Spain’s most beautiful—and often overlooked—motorhome campsites. Rob Fearn from Alan Rogers joins us to spotlight Camping Amfora on the Costa Brava. Find out why this Bay of Roses location is ideal for motorhome holidays, with huge pitches, beach access, private facilities and plenty for families to enjoy. In the Q&A, Matt tackles your real-world motorhome questions. What should you do if your dealer goes bust? How much does a DIY van conversion actually cost? And can you really get decent 4G internet while travelling in Europe? Whether you’re planning your next big trip or just starting out, this episode is packed with tips, insights, and no-nonsense advice from the UK’s motorhome expert. ✅ 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 💰 GET FINANCE https://motorhome.finance/nec-promo-application ⛺️ 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.

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.