First-Time Motorhome Hire Guide

First-time motorhome hire should feel exciting, not daunting. This practical guide explains how to choose the right vehicle, what driving and parking are like, how campsites and stopovers work, what cover to check, what to pack and what happens at collection. Yorkshire Motorhome Rentals is a small independent family business run by Dave and Julie in Doncaster, and we are happy to help first-time hirers understand the vehicle before they set off.

Elsie compact two berth motorhome ready for collection in Doncaster — Elsie, our compact two berth motorhome – a manageable choice for couples and first-time hirers.

Before you book: choose the right motorhome

Start with the number of people travelling, the number of belted travelling seats needed and the sleeping layout that will suit your group. A six-berth vehicle may give a couple or family useful extra living space, but the right choice depends on how you plan to use it. Check the individual motorhome page for the berth, seatbelt, bed, bathroom and kitchen details rather than choosing on size alone.

Count every passenger who needs a proper travelling seat and seatbelt.
Consider whether you prefer fixed beds or beds made up from lounge seating.
Think about storage for pushchairs, outdoor equipment or pet supplies.
Check whether the layout and facilities suit children, pets or anyone with limited mobility.
Allow enough payload for passengers, luggage, food, water and accessories; avoid overpacking.

Drivers normally need a full Category B driving licence held for at least two years, and every driver remains subject to insurer approval. If you are unsure about an endorsement, age requirement or licence type, contact us before booking so it can be checked properly.

Is a motorhome difficult to drive?

Most first-time customers settle into driving a motorhome quickly once they adjust to its size. The controls are familiar, but the vehicle is longer, wider and higher than a car. The most important habits are to take your time, use both mirrors frequently and leave more room for braking and turning.

Know the vehicle height and width before leaving and pay attention to low bridges, car-park barriers, narrow lanes and width restrictions.
Allow for the rear overhang when turning and avoid cutting corners.
Leave a larger gap from the vehicle ahead and brake earlier.
Use a suitable route and do not follow a sat-nav instruction into a road that looks too narrow or restricted.
Ask a passenger to guide you when reversing if it is safe to do so, or stop and check the space yourself.
Secure cupboards, loose items, tables and equipment before moving off.

At collection we explain the main controls and practical features. Take a few minutes to adjust the seat and mirrors and ask about anything you do not understand. It is better to ask before setting off than to guess later.

Elsie motorhome lounge and cab showing seating and driving position — A clear handover covers both the driving controls and the living area before you set off.

Parking, campsites and overnight stops

Parking a motorhome during the day and sleeping in it overnight are not always treated the same way. A parking space does not automatically include permission to camp or sleep there. Read signs, observe height and vehicle restrictions, respect local rules and obtain the landowner’s permission where required. Do not put out awnings, chairs or levelling equipment unless the location permits camping behaviour.

For a first trip, a proper campsite can be the easiest option. It may provide electric hook-up, fresh water, waste disposal, showers and staff who know the local area. Book popular destinations early and confirm the maximum vehicle length accepted by the site. Our guide to finding campsites and legal overnight stops explains the differences, while our campsite booking apps guide lists useful ways to plan and reserve stops.

Insurance, breakdown cover and optional protection

Hire insurance is included for approved drivers, and our own breakdown cover is included in the hire. Travel insurance is separate: customers may wish to arrange suitable cover for cancellation, illness, interrupted travel, possessions and other personal risks. Read the terms carefully because policies and exclusions vary.

Optional excess or deposit protection is also separate and is not provided or arranged by Yorkshire Motorhome Rentals. InsureCarHire is one independent provider customers may wish to consider. Its excess-protection policy only pays when the damage cost exceeds £1,000 and the claim proceeds through the vehicle’s main insurance. It does not cover damage costing £1,000 or less. Check the provider’s current policy wording, limits and eligibility before purchasing.

If travelling outside the UK, tell us in advance and check what the hire agreement, destination and your own travel insurance require. Our European motorhome travel checklist covers documents, driving requirements and useful preparation.

What to pack for your first motorhome holiday

A motorhome already gives you living, cooking and sleeping space, so packing lightly usually makes the trip easier. Check the individual vehicle listing and your booking information before duplicating equipment.

Driving licences and all required booking documents.
Suitable clothing, waterproofs and practical footwear.
Personal medication, toiletries and a compact first-aid kit.
Food for the first evening, refillable water bottles and basic provisions.
Phone chargers, power banks and any essential device cables.
Soft bags that are easier to store than rigid suitcases.
Pet equipment if travelling with an approved pet.

Do not overload the motorhome or fill every cupboard. Passenger weight, water, luggage, food and accessories all count. Travel with only the water you reasonably need before reaching your next suitable refill point.

Fully equipped motorhome kitchen with oven hob sink and fridge — Our motorhomes include practical kitchen and living facilities; check the chosen vehicle page before packing duplicates.

Collection, handover and return times

Collection is from 8:00am on your collection day and return is before 6:00pm on your return day. If your booked motorhome is available the night before, we may be able to offer early collection at no extra charge so you can load up and set off early. This is subject to availability and prior confirmation.

During the handover, make sure you know how to operate the heating, hot water, fridge, hob, toilet, water system, electric hook-up and any vehicle-specific equipment. Ask where safety equipment, controls and connection points are located. Take note of the vehicle’s dimensions and what must be secured before travel.

Simple on-the-road habits

Check doors, windows, rooflights, steps, cables and levelling equipment before moving.
Keep fresh water for drinking and food preparation clean and use suitable disposal points for grey water and toilet waste.
Use electric hook-up and gas equipment only as demonstrated, and never improvise connections.
Park considerately, keep access clear and leave every stop tidy.
Lock the vehicle and keep valuables out of sight when away from it.
Plan fuel, water and overnight stops before reaching remote areas.

First-time motorhome hire questions

Can I hire a motorhome if I have never driven one before?

Yes. Many customers are first-time hirers. The key is choosing a suitable vehicle, allowing extra space and time, and paying attention during the handover. All drivers must meet the hire insurer’s requirements.

Do I need to book every campsite in advance?

Not always, but advance booking is sensible for school holidays, weekends and popular destinations. Keep a backup option and never assume that a car park permits overnight sleeping.

Is breakdown cover included?

Yes, our own breakdown cover is included in the hire. Personal travel insurance and optional excess protection are separate products.

Can I take a hire motorhome to Europe?

European travel may be possible with prior agreement and the correct documents. Tell us before booking or travelling so the requirements for the vehicle and destination can be confirmed.

What if I need help during the trip?

We provide direct support and will explain what to do at handover. Keep the contact and breakdown information supplied with the motorhome accessible throughout your journey.

What customers say

“Excellent service from the owners. Really good quality motorhomes.”

Google review

“Absolutely fantastic customer service from Julie, couldn’t recommend her enough!”

Google review

Yorkshire Motorhome Rentals is rated 5.0 from 30 Google reviews and 5/5 from 18 Facebook ratings. Each platform’s rating is shown separately so you can see exactly where the feedback comes from.

Ready to plan your first trip?

Browse our motorhomes, read the frequently asked questions and follow the booking guide. If you would like help choosing a layout or checking driver requirements, contact Dave and Julie before booking.