motorhome hire uk

 

Are you planning a classic British road trip? Whether it’s the rugged highlands of Scotland, the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, or the coastal beauty of Cornwall, hiring a motorhome offers a level of freedom that no hotel can match.

However, before you hit the open road, there are some essential “rules of the road” regarding insurance, licensing, and documentation for hiring a motorhome in the uk. 

Can I Drive a Motorhome? Age and License Requirements

One of the most common questions is: “Is my regular driving license enough?” The answer depends on your age and the size of the vehicle.

Age Guidelines

To hire a motorhome in the UK, most rental companies, including Priory Rentals, require drivers to be between 25 and 75 years old.

  • Experience: You generally need to have held your full driving license for at least two years.
  • Clean Record: While minor points (usually up to 6) are often accepted, you should always disclose any convictions to the rental team beforehand to ensure insurance coverage.

License Categories (B vs. C1)

  • Category B: If you have a standard car license, you can drive motorhomes with a Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) of up to 3,500kg.
  • Category C1: For larger, luxury motorhomes (like the Auto-Trail Imala 736G or Roller Team 746), you must have a C1 category on your license. This allows you to drive vehicles between 3,500kg and 7,500kg.

Check the back of your driving license. If you passed your test before January 1, 1997, you likely have C1 automatically. If you passed after that date, you may need to take an additional test for larger models.

 

What Documents do I need to hire a motorhome

When you arrive at the depot to collect your home-on-wheels, you’ll need to have your paperwork in order. Missing one document could stall your trip!

For UK Residents:

  1. Full Driving License: Ensure it is valid and in date.
  2. DVLA Check Code: Since the paper counterpart is now obsolete, you must generate a check code via the GOV.UK website. This allows us to verify your endorsements.
  3. Two Proofs of Address: These must be dated within the last three months. Accepted documents include utility bills, bank statements, or credit card bills.

For International Visitors:

  • Your national driving license.
  • An International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in English.
  • Your Passport.
  • Proof of travel (flight or campsite reservation confirmation).

 

Understanding Deposits and Insurance

Motorhome insurance can seem complex, but it boils down to two main financial elements: the booking deposit and the security deposit.

The Booking Deposit

To secure your dates, you will typically pay a non-refundable booking deposit (at Priory Rentals, this is £250). The remaining balance is usually due six weeks before you set off.

The Security Deposit (The Excess)

Upon collection, you will be asked to leave a refundable security deposit. This ranges from £750 to £3000 depending on the vehicle and destination.

  • Purpose: This acts as your insurance excess.
  • Refund: As long as the vehicle is returned clean, undamaged, and on time, this is fully refunded.
  • Damages: If an accident occurs or equipment is damaged, the costs are deducted from this deposit.

Mileage and European Travel

Before you map out a 2,000-mile journey, check the mileage policy.

  • UK Travel: Most reputable UK hires include unlimited mileage for travel within the UK, giving you the freedom to explore without watching the odometer.
  • Going Abroad: You can take your motorhome to Europe or Ireland, but you must notify us  in advance. This usually incurs an additional fee (roughly £95 per week) to cover “Green Cards” and the necessary extra insurance and breakdown cover.

 

What’s Included in your Motorhome Hire?

Modern motorhomes are “ready-to-go” apartments. Priory Rentals provides a full inventory including:

  • Kitchen Essentials: Cutlery, crockery, pots, pans, and a kettle.
  • Safety Gear: Fire extinguisher, first aid kit, and leveling blocks.
  • Gas & Chemicals: Initial gas bottles and toilet chemicals.

What you need to bring: Don’t forget your own bedding (pillows, sleeping bags/duvets) and towels and toilet paper!

 

Final Checklist for a Smooth Hire

  • Book Campsites Early: Especially during the summer, the best spots fill up fast.
  • Check Collection Times: Most hires allow collection from 3:00 PM and require return by 11:00 AM.
  • Secure Parking: If you’re driving to the depot, ask if they offer secure on-site parking for your car while you’re away.

For more information check out our Motorhome FAQs page.

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