Motorhomes, campervans and RVs are vehicles made for living in but that doesn’t make them the same. All have unique differences when it comes to design, layout, size and capacity.

If you’re thinking about buying or hiring a motorhome to travel around the country in, it’s a smart idea to understand the difference between motorhome and other different types of recreational vehicles that are available on the market. 

This article compares Motorhomes Vs Campervans Vs RVs in a bid to help you decide on the best vehicle for you and your travel needs.
 

Motorhomes definition

Let’s start with the motorhome. What is a motorhome? Arguably the most common type of leisure vehicle in the UK (especially in Scotland)! Travel along the North Coast 500 during peak season and you’ll be met with long lines of impatient motorhome drivers travelling to their next destination.

Unlike campervans, which tend to be converted into living spaces from existing vans, a motorhome is a purpose-built home on wheels. 

It is normally custom built on a van chassis which offers a larger living space and a more solid foundation. The main components of a motorhome are normally:

• The front cab which consists of a standard driver and passenger seat 
• The living space is separate from the cab and contains contain beds, kitchen facilities and normally a shower room.

Motorhomes can come in a wide range of sizes, from small 2-berth motorhomes up to larger 6-berth motorhomes. The living space will have its own door that is separate from the standard car doors used for the driver's cab. Some motorhomes will also boast a boot space for extra storage, which is ideal for travellers who are interested in outdoor adventure sports.
 

 

The benefits of a motorhome vehicle

Motorhomes provides a wide range of benefits that makes living and travelling simple, convenient and (hopefully) comfortable.

Some of motorhome advantages include:

• Spacious and have capacity for the full family 
• Well-designed layout that provides everything you need for living: kitchen, washroom, sleeping space, relaxation space 
• Still small enough that they’re easy to manoeuvre and handle on the roads 
• Provides drivers with the freedom to live and travel on the road 

Well-made motorhomes will also offer additional extras to make life even more comfortable on the road. All new, modern motorhomes from Struans come equipped with fridge-freezers, hot showers and chemical toilets. We want our customers to enjoy the trip of a lifetime when travelling in a high class motorhome hire in Scotland. or bought from Struans. 
 

So, what is a campervan? 

If a motorhome is a purpose-built mobile home made for living in, then how does a camper van differ? 

Well, first and foremost, campervans are not purpose-built. That is to say campervans have not always been campervans, they were once standard vans which have since been converted into a mobile-living space. This means that campervans are usually built on a van chassis and designed on an existing panel van body.

Therefore, a campervan is smaller in size compared to a motorhome or RV and will have less facilities. Within a campervan you’ll tend to find:

• An open-plan layout that does not have different rooms or compartments
• A sleeping space that doubles up as a living space 
• An open driver's area that connects directly to the back living space (no divider) 
• A small kitchen / worktop station 

Due to their limited space, many campervans might not have a toilet or shower on board, although this can be done through careful planning and design.

If you’re still unsure what a campervan is, picture the classic VW model from the 60s; the quintessential (and original) campervan. Since then, campervans have sky rocketed in popularity, with more and more people converting vans of all shapes and sizes into convenient and stylish mobile-homes.

You can find out more about the steps needed to convert a van into a campervan with this helpful guide from DIY Campervan.
 

 

Are campervans converted vans?

Campervans are versatile vehicles modified to serve as transportation and accommodation on the road. These vehicles typically feature living quarters in the rear, complete with sleeping areas, kitchen, and sometimes even bathrooms. 

The conversion process 

While campervans may share the same base structure as standard vans, they undergo a significant conversion process to transform them into fully functional living spaces. This conversion typically involves adding insulation, installing furniture and appliances, and configuring the layout to maximise space efficiency. 

Customisation and creativity 

One of the best camper advantages is the freedom of customisation and creativity. Owners can tailor their campervans to suit their specific needs and preferences. You can add solar panels for off-grid power, install foldaway furniture, or incorporate unique design elements for a personalised touch. 

Campervans vs. motorhomes 

It's important to distinguish between campervans and motorhomes, as they serve slightly different purposes. While campervans are typically smaller and more compact, motorhomes are larger and often feature more amenities, such as separate living and sleeping areas, full kitchens, and bathrooms. 
 

Motorhome vs campervan: Which is better?

So now you should have a good working understanding of the main differences between campervans and motorhomes but you might still be thinking, “Which is the best choice for me?”.

It’s a good question and one that can only be answered by you. That’s because the best option will depend on your individual circumstances and requirements.

In general, however, a motorhome is best for:

• Families or larger groups of 3-5 people
• Individual or couples who require more space and greater levels of comfort or carrying pets 
• Those who are less comfortable with camping and living in nature 
   

 

In comparison, a campervan is better suited to:

• Solo travellers and couples
• Younger people who are comfortable with less space and less home comforts living quarters
• Those who enjoy wild camping and getting out into the nature

This is not to say that older people can’t enjoy life in a campervan, or that younger individuals can’t enjoy life in a motorhome. The decision will always come down to personal preference and circumstance, and considerations such as budget, travel length and location will also come into play.

Have a browse through our wide range motorhomes and campervans for purchase to check our latest stock.
 

Should I hire a campervan or motorhome in Scotland? 

If you’re interested in travelling around the beautiful country of Scotland, or the UK as a whole, a campervan or motorhome is the perfect way to do so! 

To choose the best option for you it's important to consider:

• Where you are travelling to
• How many people will be in your party
• What are your plans for the motorhome trip (camping, adventure sports etc.)

To give a final breakdown we've listed the advantages and disadvantages of both campervans and motorhomes below. 

The pros of motorhomes are:

• Larger size that is perfect for families of 3-5 (plus pets!).
• More space for living, with most motorhomes having a lounge area, sleeping area and a well-equipped kitchen. 
• Unlike some campervans, motorhomes always have a shower and a toilet that is possibly larger
• More convenient layout: As motorhomes are purpose built, the layout tends to be well-designed and offers roomier compartments for living and sleeping in 
• Extra storage space for your belongings, with a lot of motorhomes having an included “garage” space where camping or sports gear can be conveniently stored. 
   

 

The cons of motorhomes are:

• Limited access to remote camping spots, camp sites and hard-to-access locations 
• Fuel costs tend to be higher in a motorhome due to its larger size 
• Price: Motorhomes are generally more expensive to buy and to hire, with the larger models costing more than the smaller sized models 
• Driving license: Certain motorhome vehicles will exceed 3,500 kilos in weight, meaning UK residents may need a C1 driving license to operate the vehicle

The advantages of a campervan are:

• The smaller size of a campervan makes it easier and more convenient to drive 
• Campervans have better accessibility than motorhomes and can therefore access campsites (perfect for those who frequently go wild camping) and areas that would be inaccessible in a larger vehicle 
• Heating a campervan is quick and easy due its small size 
• Better fuel efficiency
• Versatile: As a campervan is effectively just a van, a can therefore be used instead of a car to do daily tasks and trips, as well as a mobile-home that can travel across the country. 
• Price: Campervans are cheaper to buy and hire in comparison to motorhomes 

The disadvantages of a campervan are:

• Living space within the campervan is limited 
• Smaller toilet and shower room or in some case it will have neither 
• External storage is severely limited so carrying sports equipment or camping gear could cause some issues
• Layout: Campervans tend to have just one section to them, meaning the living space, sleeping compartment and cooking area all merge into one 
   

When should you buy a campervan over a motorhome?

Choosing between a campervan and a motorhome can be a tough decision, especially with the wide range of options available. While both offer unique advantages, there are certain situations where a campervan might be the better choice.

Here are some scenarios you can consider: 
 

 

1. Maneuverability and accessibility 

Campervans are usually smaller and more agile than motorhomes, making them easier to maneuver through tight spaces and navigate narrow roads. If you plan to explore secluded areas or places without parking restrictions, a campervan's compact size offers greater flexibility and accessibility. 

2. Affordability and cost-effectiveness 

Campervans are more affordable compared to motorhomes. They are a great option for budget-friendly travelers looking to minimise upfront costs. Additionally, campervans often have lower ongoing expenses, such as fuel consumption, maintenance, and insurance premiums. These make them a more cost-effective choice over the long term. 

3. Versatility and adaptability 

Campervans are renowned for their versatility and adaptability. They allow owners to use them for a variety of purposes beyond traditional recreational travel. Whether it’s for weekend getaways, extended road trips, or even as daily transportation, its compact size and multifunctional layout accommodates various lifestyles. 

4. DIY customisation and personalisation 

For DIY enthusiasts and creative individuals, campervans provide endless opportunities for customisation and personalisation. From designing your own layout to adding unique amenities, owning a campervan allows you to create a living space that reflects your personality. This hands-on approach can be both rewarding and cost-effective compared to purchasing a pre-built motorhome. 
 

What about RVs? 

The final option of mobile home that has not yet been discussed is the RV. 

RVs are the largest out of the three mobile home vehicles by quite some size. If you think tour busses and well-off, middle class American families, then you can get a better idea of what an RV is.
 

 

Due to their large size and huge price tag, RVs are not a viable option for most. In addition, their size makes them difficult to drive, find parking, and very hard to navigate along country roads and the remote spaces which are very common in Scotland. Therefore, travelling in an RV for a short trip around Scotland or the UK is not recommended.

RVs are still an attractive option as they provide a heightened level of comfort can be very luxurious. They tend to boast separate rooms and will always be equipped with showers, toilets, entertainment, double beds and a whole host of other benefits and luxuries. However RVs are not common in Scotland. 
 

How about caravans?

Another vehicle choice that comes to mind is caravan.

Caravans, also known as travel trailers or camper trailers, are essentially mobile homes that you tow behind your vehicle. They offer spacious interiors and typically include all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, such as sleeping areas with beds, kitchens, and bathrooms. A touring caravan is ideal for those who prefer the flexibility of unhitching their accommodation and exploring the surrounding area with their vehicle.
 

 

Aside from the flexibility, another benefit of using caravan for travelling is the freedom and stability it offers. You can customise it according to your style and preference and add additional features or modifications. Plus, caravans tend to have a lower center of gravity so there's a guaranteed stable travel and towing performance on the road.

However, despite its benefits, caravans also offer disadvantages. Since it requires a towing vehicle, requirements may be complex and advanced driving skills can be a necessity. Another con is the longer setup time it involves since it needs levelling, stabilising, and connecting utilities.
 

Is a campervan or motorhome best for you?

Deciding between a campervan and a motorhome can be challenging. To see which option is best for your needs and preferences, consider the following factors: 

• Travel style and preferences: Consider your travel style and preferences when deciding between a campervan and a motorhome. If you enjoy spontaneous trips and prefer flexibility in your travel plans, a campervan may be your ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer the comforts of home and value spacious living quarters, a motorhome may better for you. 
• Budget and financial considerations: Evaluate your budget and financial considerations before deciding. Campervans are generally more affordable than motorhomes, both in terms of upfront costs and ongoing expenses. If you're looking to minimise costs and maximise savings, a campervan may be the more economical choice. 
• Space and comfort requirements: Assess your space and comfort requirements to determine which vehicle best meets your needs. While campervans offer compact living quarters, they may lack some of the amenities found in motorhomes. If you prioritise comfort and convenience during your travels, a motorhome may provide a more luxurious experience. 
• Travel destinations and accessibility: Consider your intended travel destinations and the accessibility of your chosen vehicle. Campervans are well-suited for exploring remote and secluded destinations. If you plan to go on adventures to rugged terrain or narrow roads, a campervan may offer greater accessibility and freedom. 
• Personal preferences and lifestyle: Finally, factor in your personal preferences and lifestyle when making your decision. Think about how you envision your travel experiences and what amenities are essential for your comfort and enjoyment. Whether you prefer the simplicity of campervan travel or the luxury of motorhome living, choose the option that aligns with your preferences and lifestyle. 
   

 

Ready to begin your adventure? 

If you’re planning your next outdoor escapade and looking to rent a campervan or seeking to make your first purchase of a brand-new motorhome, Struans Leisure is here to turn your travel aspirations into reality. 

Rent your adventure: With our range of high-quality campervans and motorhome for rent, you can enjoy exploring Scotland's stunning landscapes and vibrant cities. Whether you're a solo adventurer, a couple going on a romantic road trip, or a family creating unforgettable memories, we have the perfect vehicle for you.

Own your freedom: Looking to make your outdoor adventures a permanent part of your lifestyle? Discover the freedom of owning your own campervan or motorhome with use. With our selection of new vehicles, you can find the perfect mobile home to call your own.

Reach out to us and see our available models and take the first step towards owning your outdoor oasis. You can also book your rental vehicle and begin your outdoor journey.

Contact Struans Leisure today!