The best motorhome provides ‘van owners with a great spec, a comfortable layout, and an excellent base for making plenty of memories. However, the many models on the market can make it feel like a daunting prospect to find the one for you.
The freedom to get away and pitch up whenever and wherever you want is one of the joys of touring. However, getting the right ‘van for your needs is a crucial step to an enjoyable experience. There are a wide range of models on the market from the best motorhome manufacturers, all with their own pros and cons. As a result, it can feel tricky to know where to start when you’re looking for a good motorhome. That’s where this guide comes in, as we’re sharing our pick of the best motorhomes. We’re able to compile this list in a couple of ways.
Firstly, we run the Practical Motorhome Awards, where our expert judging panel, with decades of experience between them, pick out the standout motorhomes for the upcoming season, covering a wide range of categories.
We also run the Owner Satisfaction Awards, where our readers help buyers pick the right motorhome. We received 5,013 responses in our most recent set of results, run in conjunction with the Camping and Caravanning Club, giving us a comprehensive picture of the market and allowing us to identify the brands who are providing the standout customer experience.
Combining this with the many tests and reviews we carry out throughout the year has allowed us to pick out – and share – our choice of the standout motorhomes on the market. Each model in our guide is either new or revised for the 2024 season.
Whether you’re looking for the best luxury motorhome or a more budget-friendly option, there’s bound to be a ‘van here for you, as we share our pick of the standout motorhomes on the market, featuring models from brands such as Pilote, Swift and Auto-Sleeper.
If you’re looking for a different type of ‘van, you can also take a look at our best campervan guide.
What are the best motorhomes?
Bailey Alora 69-4S
Rapido C03
Le Voyageur Eterna 7.0GJF
Pilote Atlas A656D
Carthago C Tourer I 145 LE Superior
Itineo Cozi PS700
Auto-Sleeper Burford Duo
Swift Voyager 494
The best motorhomes: mini reviews
Bailey Alora 69-4S
- Price: £75,499
- Berths: 4
- MTPLM: 3,500kg
- MiRO: 2,950kg
- Payload: 550kg
- Length: 6.99
- Width: 2.12m
Reason to buy:
- Great storage and comfortable layout
Reason to avoid:
- Step up and down could get annoying
We think this Alora would be a great pick for couples, with plenty of storage on offer. The Ford Transit-based van is unique among the three model range as it is the only one that doesn’t have a toilet on the nearside, a feature we appreciate as it means the access hatch isn’t going to be inside the awning.
We thought the exterior was striking and are also fans of the large front lounge. Four could comfortably sit here – and that’s before swivelling the cab seats.
We did have a gripe with the steps down from the cab and then back up to the kitchen, but the cooking area has a great worktop, with the option of using the extension to extend it further. A four-burner dual-fuel hob, a combined oven and grill, a large sink, and a 138-litre slimline fridge complete the space.
Head into the washroom and you’ll find a circular toilet and a handbasin that can be slid away to create shower space. We’re always pleased to see two drainage holes on offer too.
Most impressive in the 69-4S is the storage – despite being a compact model, there is plenty. For instance, the lounge includes three overhead lockers, cubbyholes and a space between the travel seats. Then a half-height wardrobe can be found beneath the bed, while the kitchen includes a large overhead locker and two cupboards.
We think the designers have done a great job here, creating a comfortable motorhome with a clever layout.
Full review: Bailey Alora 69-4S
Rapido C03
- Price: £71,300
- Berths: 3
- MTPLM: 3500kg
- MiRO: 2860kg
- Payload: 640kg
- Length: 6.19m
- Width: 2.17m
Reason to buy:
- Fits a proper bedroom into a transverse bed layout
Reason to avoid:
- Two-inch step under habitation door is quite prominent
We thought the Rapido C03 was a highly impressive option when we reviewed it. It adds an extra 20cm to the usual transverse bed layout length of 5.99m, using this extra space to create a comfortable option for two.
Light streams into a lounge which could fit six, thanks to a Heki – come the evening, an LED, a spotlight and two reading lights are both provided. Something we noted is the prominence of the two-inch step under the door – a feature to watch out for if you’re liable to tripping up.
We liked the DuoSpace washroom – there’s another step leading into it, but once you’re in, you’ll find a salad-bowl-style handbasin, a circular toilet and two robe hooks. We were fans of the option of securing the partition to create a fairly large shower cubicle too, even if there is no window, only a roof vent.
However, it’s the rear bedroom that we were most impressed by. We appreciated the inclusion of proper steps which lead up to a bed with an impressive width of 1.49m.
Storage is also great, including a full-height wardrobe and a garage beneath the bed (big enough for two bikes). Storage in the kitchen also includes what our reviewer called “one of the largest drawers I’ve ever seen in a motorhome”. For comfort and storage, the C03 is undoubtedly an impressive option for two, so it’s not surprising it was our pick of the best motorhome for couples at the Practical Motorhome Awards 2024.
Full review: Rapido C03
Le Voyageur Eterna 7.0GJF
- Price: £122,150
- Berths: 4
- MTPLM: 3500kg
- MiRO: 2967kg
- Payload: 458kg
- Length: 7.05m
- Width: 2.24m
Reason to buy:
- Flat floor, highly luxurious, Al-Ko chassis ensures its smooth to drive
Reason to avoid:
- Big price tag
The 7.0 GJF is a fairly unique option from Le Voyageur, in that it weighs less than 3,500kg all told and offers four travel seats.
Thanks to its Al-Ko STC chassis, it has a lower centre of gravity to make navigating bumpier terrain a more comfortable experience, while a flat floor is provided throughout. We thought the minimalistic appearance was incredibly stylish as well.
Weight has been kept down by not including cab doors, but this means cubbyholes are provided beneath the cab windows. We found the travel seats straightforward to assemble and were impressed that while there isn’t an offside window, the lounge doesn’t feel dark, thanks to the large windscreen and white upholstery.
We loved how the white worktop contrasted with the black of the two-burner hob in the kitchen too – this is a very stylish ‘van. Our only complaint here was the lack of mains socket.
Step into the washroom and we were impressed by the huge shower space after sliding the bench toilet and handbasin away. However, we did think the headroom could have been better.
When it comes to sleeping arrangements, there are two comfortable beds at the rear which reach over 2m long. A dropdown bed of 1.82 x 1.36m can also be found over the cab.
Storage is great too, including a capacious garage and an exterior side locker. It may have a premium price tag but the Eterna 7.0 GJF is certain to offer an incredibly comfortable experience.
Full review: Le Voyageur Eterna 7.0GJF
Pilote Atlas A656D
- Price: £84,500
- Berths: 4
- MTPLM: 3500kg
- MiRO: 3015kg
- Payload: 485kg
- Length: 6.60m
- Width: 2.20m
Reason to buy:
- Looks stylish, good lighting in lounge
Reason to avoid:
- Cassette hatch most likely to be in awning, transforming travel seats to settees isn’t the simplest
Coming on the new Ford Trail Transit, the Pilote Atlas A656D has a 170bhp engine and a striking appearance, thanks to its red and black decals.
We think the lounge makes a very pleasant space. Capable of seating seven, light can stream in thanks to a sunroof and large windows. However, we did find converting the nearside settee into two travel seats a bit tricky.
The dropdown double bed is easy to lower, and we thought it was a good width at 1.42m – the second double is made up in the lounge.
The size of the washroom impressed us. Okay, there’s a step up, but the shower cubicle is spacious and has two drainage holes, while the main washroom includes a large basin and a roof vent. It’s worth drawing your attention to the cassette hatch though, which will almost certainly end up within an awning if you’re using one.
Storage is also good, with eight shelves across the back of the ‘van, half of which have removable fabric baskets. The ‘van also comes with a garage, which is internally accessible and provides room for a bike.
Full review: Pilote Atlas A656D
Carthago C Tourer I 145 LE Superior
- Price: £114,940
- Berths: 3
- MTPLM: 3500kg
- MiRO: TBC
- Payload: TBC
- Length: depends on option chosen
- Width: 2.27m
Reason to buy:
- Plenty of luxurious touches throughout
Reason to avoid:
- Shower feels a tad cramped
The only new model from Carthago for the 2024 touring season is an impressive and luxurious option, making it onto our shortlist at the Practical Motorhome Awards 2024 a notable three times, including for the best motorhome for full-time living category.
The length will vary based on whether you go for the A-class option, the standard or Superior option, and whether you choose Mercedes or Fiat. The model we tested, the Superior A-class based on a Mercedes, came with a 150bhp engine as standard and a stylish minimalist Mercedes cab.
We liked the comfort provided in the well-lit L-shaped lounge – it’s a smart space, thanks to pale grey upholstery and dark grey tabletop which contrasts with the gloss-white overhead lockers, an appearance that is further elevated by recessed handles. It’s worth highlighting the shower is a tad cramped – however there are some good shelving options and it’s nicely lit.
The rear single beds impressed us too – 2m long, despite the van’s length of only 7m. Storage is excellent throughout as well, with a large heated garage, a double floor and hanging wardrobes among the options.
Full review: Carthago C Tourer I 145 LE Superior
Itineo Cozi PS700
- Price: £61,800
- Berths: 6
- MTPLM: 3500kg
- MiRO: 2935kg
- Payload: TBC
- Length: 6.99m
- Width: 2.32m
Reason to buy:
- Good family layout, plenty of space
Reason to avoid:
- No oven or microwave, six travel seat is optional extra
We think this is a great option for anyone looking for a well-planned family motorhome at a reasonable price. It’s the first six-berth low-profile to be added to Itineo’s line-up and has been introduced at a time when six-berths are something of a rarity.
This Ford Transit-based ‘van has a grey, black and white interior, yet despite this, we think it still feels bright and airy.
The kitchen is a good size too. Don’t be put off by the lack of an extension – we don’t think you’ll need one, due to the space provided between the hob and the sink. Like the lounge, it’s well-lit, with a 136-litre slimline fridge/freezer and a two-burner hob, although you have to make do without an oven or microwave.
Another feature we’re fans of is the large side washroom. While the handbasin is only accessible when the shower isn’t being used, it offers two drainage holes and a shelf, which is always good to see.
Sleeping options include a comfortable dropdown bed, fixed bunks and what our reviewer referred to as “one of the largest doubles I’ve seen in a motorhome” which is made up in the lounge.
It’s worth pointing out that the sixth travel seat is only an optional extra though.
Full review: Itineo Cozi PS700
Auto-Sleeper Burford Duo
- Price: £112,050
- Berths: 4
- MTPLM: 4100kg
- MiRO: 3380kg
- Payload: 720kg
- Length: 7.92m
- Width: 2.35m
Reason to buy:
- Incredibly comfortable option with good kitchen work surface
Reason to avoid:
- No garage
This low-profile motorhome comes on a Mercedes Sprinter base, offering motorhomers an end washroom and two single beds. The spec is impressive – for instance, Truma Combi heating and Truma Avenue Plus air conditioning are provided as standard.
There’s no denying this is a long motorhome, coming to 7.92m in length – however, we think the inclusion of skirting lockers along the outside is incredibly convenient even if it means there isn’t a garage.
We love how comfortable the lounge is, with light streaming in thanks to a Heki, a sunroof and large windows. Good lighting continues into the evening, where six individually switched spotlights, three LEDs and ambient lighting provide plenty of illumination for watching the TV and accompanying sounder. We liked how the table can be slid out as well but did think it was heavy.
We were impressed by the kitchen too, with a decent work surface plus an extension, as well as a dual-fuel four-burner hob, a separate oven and grill, an extractor fan, a fridge and freezer, and a microwave.
Due to the cantilevered wardrobe at the foot of each bed, the fixed singles may look short, but they’re still 6ft 1in long. It’s a nice area, with branded padded headboards, good lighting and both a mains socket and USB ports to be found. The other two berths are made up with the settees in the lounge – we’re appreciative of the size of the scatter cushions, which means pillows will most likely not be required.
Full review: Auto-Sleeper Burford Duo
Swift Voyager 494
- Berths: 4
- MTPLM: 3500kg
- MiRO: 3088kg
- Payload: 412kg
- Length: 7.54m
- Width: 2.37m
Reason to buy:
- Offers good value for money, layout works well
Reason to avoid:
- Washroom isn’t spread across the middle
Part of the new subrange addition to the Voyager range, the 494 is a model that we particularly rate. We really like how it takes what works in the Voyager 5 range and adds in the practicalities of an overcab bed in the Luton, providing the flexibility of being used for storage or as a sleeping space.
Based on a Ford Transit, the 494 has an island bed layout, and we think whether you choose to use all four berths or tour as a two, it’s an arrangement that will work well.
We love the size of the washroom, while we think the side kitchen is kitted out with plenty of features for rustling up a feast on tour. We think there’s plenty of value for money provided as well, especially when you take into account features such as concertina cab blinds and external BBQ and shower points.
Put this all together and it’s easy to see how the 494 was a winner at the Practical Motorhome Awards 2024, taking the best 4 berth motorhome category.
How to choose the best motorhome
When you’re looking for the right motorhome, there are a few points to consider. Firstly, you need to know who will be travelling in it – this will help you settle on the appropriate layout and ensure there are enough travel seats for all.
Then, think through what is important for the motorhome to provide – the essential requirements for how you intend to use it vs the would-likes.
For instance, are you planning adventurous tours where you take to two wheels to explore? If so, a ‘van with fixed single beds could be worth considering – these are generally in a higher position to offer room for a garage below where you could store your bicycles. However, it means the beds can be harder to get into. In contrast, a drop-down bed, which is becoming an increasingly popular option and can be controlled electronically or manually, can blot out a roof light, which means you’ll need to ensure the interior is still well-lit.
Consider the time of year you’ll be travelling as well. If you’re planning trips during the offseason, a model with a double floor is a good idea – it’s more expensive but will provide good insulation and handy storage.
Consider how important the washroom and cooking facilities will be too. If you’re planning to use campsite facilities and eat out, this could be less important, but if not, factor this in when choosing the ‘van with the right spec for you.
How we review motorhomes
We’ve been reviewing motorhomes for more than 20 years now, regularly putting the latest models on the market to the test. When we review these ‘vans, we make sure we provide honest, impartial advice, highlighting the pros, but also drawing attention to any niggles too.
We begin by taking a look at the latest releases before selecting the motorhomes that we think are worth a closer inspection. We then take the ‘vans out for a live-in test, trying them out in real-world circumstances for periods of time that vary from a weekend trip to a longer tour around the UK or abroad.
When we take a motorhome out, we take everything into account, from its build quality to the practicalities of touring in it.
We have an experienced team of motorhome testers – we know what to look out for in a good motorhome, whether it’s from the perspective of a beginner or a more experienced tourer. You can find out more about how we test on our About Us page.
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