Motorhome Matt

Advice, industry insights and an impartial view into the world of motorhomes, caravans, campervans and travel, with the motorhome nerd himself, Matt Sims. Sitting by his side asking all the right questions is his partner in crime, journalist Keith Gooden, deciphering the perplexing jargon. Listen in and learn everything you need to know about buying, owning and selling a leisure vehicle. Discover the industry trends, new developments and future plans for motorhomes and leisure vehicles in the UK and beyond. Got a question for Matt? Ask Matt! Submit your queries and feature on the podcast at mhmp.info/askmatt. Brought to you by That Leisure Shop.

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Episodes

4 days ago

🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCEmhmp.info/ripeinsurance
In this episode of the Motorhome Matt Podcast, Matt and Keith chat with award-winning travel writer and cycling enthusiast Marcus Leach about his work with RP Motorhomes. Marcus shares his incredible experience of living full-time in a motorhome, travelling through 34 countries with his family, and curating unique adventure tours for RP Motorhomes.
He also takes us through the features of the award-winning RP Rebel, a motorhome designed for ultimate off-grid adventures, packed with innovations.
We’re also joined by Jaye Young, co-owner of RP Motorhomes, who gives us an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how the company has evolved to cater to families and adventurers alike.
In the news, we discuss a serious safety issue involving a gas cylinder explosion in a campervan, highlighting the importance of using approved services for gas safety checks.
And in the Q&A, Matt answers your questions on choosing the right SIM card, the best navigation apps for motorhomes, and retrofitting air conditioning in older motorhomes.
âś… MOTORHOME MATT APPROVEDServices, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Mattmhmp.info/approved
đź›’ PRODUCT OF THE WEEKhttps://www.thatleisureshop.com/coffee-bracket-suitable-for-nespresso-essenza-machine
âť“ ASK MATTmhmp.info/askmatt
🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTSmhmp.info/events
đź“ą WATCH ON YOUTUBEmhmp.info/watch
đź’¬ LEAVE A REVIEWmhmp.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.

Monday Mar 24, 2025

Would you know what to do if you found a stowaway hidden in your vehicle? In this episode of The Motorhome Matt Podcast, Matt Sims and Keith Gooden unpack the shocking story of a UK couple who returned from France to find a stowaway hidden in their bike rack—only to be slapped with a hefty fine from the Home Office.
Matt explains what unfolded and shares essential advice on keeping your motorhome secure.
Matt also gives an update on important DVLA updates that confused many owners about road tax and weight upgrades. What changed, and how does it affect you? Matt breaks it down, including the ongoing challenges for horsebox and goods vehicle owners.
Plus, in the Q&A, Matt answers listener questions about buying ex-rental motorhomes—are they a smart buy or a hidden risk?—and whether adding a tow bar affects payload capacity. He also reveals a clever way to carry extra gear without overloading your vehicle.
âś… MOTORHOME MATT APPROVEDServices, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Mattmhmp.info/approved
🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCEmhmp.info/ripeinsurance
âť“ ASK MATTmhmp.info/askmatt
🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTSmhmp.info/events
đź“ą WATCH ON YOUTUBEmhmp.info/watch
đź’¬ LEAVE A REVIEWmhmp.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.

Monday Mar 17, 2025

Every motorhome owner knows the pain of showers—pressing the hot water button, only to wait half an hour for just two minutes of warmth. But no more… In this episode of the Motorhome Matt podcast, Matt and Keith dive into Truma’s latest innovations, including a brand-new heating and hot water system that could change the game for motorhome users. Could this mean instant, endless showers at last?
Plus, we explore Truma’s cutting-edge air conditioning unit and how it stacks up against the competition. Matt speaks with Truma UK’s Martin Fitzpatrick to get the inside scoop.
In the news, vehicle tax is on the rise. We break down the upcoming increases, including how much more you’ll be paying and what it means for owners.
In the Q&A, Matt tackles your questions on air suspension and insurance, travelling with a table in place, and how to secure the best motorhome discounts.
âś… MOTORHOME MATT APPROVEDServices, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Mattmhmp.info/approved
đź›’ PRODUCT OF THE WEEKwww.thatleisureshop.com
🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCEmhmp.info/ripeinsurance
⛺️ CAMPSITE OF THE MONTHmhmp.info/alanrogers
âť“ ASK MATTmhmp.info/askmatt
🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTSmhmp.info/events
đź“ą WATCH ON YOUTUBEmhmp.info/watch
đź’¬ LEAVE A REVIEWmhmp.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.

Monday Mar 10, 2025

This week on the Motorhome Matt podcast, Matt and Keith dive deep into the state of the motorhome market, with insights from one of the UK’s largest vehicle marketplaces, Auto Trader. Tom Roberts, Bikes, Leisure and Commercial Vehicles Content Marketing Manager, shares some eye-opening perspectives on the trends currently shaping the industry.
Is the motorhome boom really over, or is the market simply shifting? From changing consumer behaviour to rising vehicle prices, Matt and Tom explore what’s driving demand and what the future might hold.
If you’ve been curious about the latest market trends, the future of motorhome prices, and what’s truly happening in the world of leisure vehicles, this is the conversation you won’t want to miss.
In the news, there are updates on the major court ruling shaking up the world of consumer finance, following intervention from the UK Chancellor.
Plus, get details on the upcoming Yorkshire Motorhome & Campervan Show. Matt will be hosting the advice centre and sharing his expertise on everything from motorhome accessories to top tips for travelling to Europe in your leisure vehicle.
In the Q&A, Matt tackles your questions on retrofitting bunk beds into motorhomes, selecting a future-proof motorhome, and the ins and outs of refillable tanks.
âś… MOTORHOME MATT APPROVEDServices, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Mattmhmp.info/approved
🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCEmhmp.info/ripeinsurance
âť“ ASK MATTmhmp.info/askmatt
🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTSmhmp.info/events
đź“ą WATCH ON YOUTUBEmhmp.info/watch
đź’¬ LEAVE A REVIEWmhmp.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.

Monday Mar 03, 2025

Coming to you from the Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show 2025, this episode of The Motorhome Matt Podcast is packed with industry updates, expert insights, and exciting product launches.
Matt Sims and Keith Gooden take you straight to the action, starting with the launch of the ACSI Camping Card.
The highly anticipated Adria Super Twin 4x4 motorhome has also been revealed, with a release set for 2026.
Accessibility in motorhomes is another key focus. Jo Woolnough calls for more factory-fitted adaptations to improve inclusivity, while Paul Adams from Kaktus Vans shares the emotional story behind a custom-built van designed for a child with disabilities. 
Matt also sits down with Tom Clark from Brit Stops to explore the brand’s rapid growth and the launch of Pint Chasers, an exciting new initiative and... maybe the dream job?
Adventure and the great outdoors are never far from the conversation, and Richard Harpham joins Matt to discuss the benefits of outdoor activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. 
When it comes to motorhome tech, there’s plenty to cover. Will Bark from Ma-Ve dives into the hydraulic vs. electric leveling debate. Meanwhile, Alan Rogers is back for our Campsite of the Month: Camping de la Côte d’Argent, a stunning French campsite featuring pine-shaded pitches.
The latest motorhome and caravan launches take centre stage as Neil Bolton from Beez Leisure unveils new caravan models and the high-spec, British-built Aura panel van conversion. Mike Lake, a veteran of the motorhome industry, explains why Aura’s focus on customisation is a game-changer.
Back to Keith in the studio, Matt tackles your questions on tyre and alloy brands, how finance approval is affected, adding a diesel heater and how to get custom carpets for a campervan.
âś… MOTORHOME MATT APPROVEDServices, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Mattmhmp.info/approved
🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCEmhmp.info/ripeinsurance
⛺️ CAMPSITE OF THE MONTHmhmp.info/alanrogers
âť“ ASK MATTmhmp.info/askmatt
🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTSmhmp.info/events
đź“ą WATCH ON YOUTUBEmhmp.info/watch
đź’¬ LEAVE A REVIEWmhmp.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.

Motorhome Myths Busted

Monday Feb 24, 2025

Monday Feb 24, 2025

There are plenty of myths floating around about motorhomes—but how many of them are actually true? In this episode of the Motorhome Matt Podcast, Matt and Keith set the record straight on some of the biggest misconceptions in the motorhome world. Can you really park and sleep anywhere? Do all motorhomes eventually suffer from water leaks? Is the industry heading for a crash, or is it thriving?
Plus, with the release of a major report on the global motorhome market, we discuss the state of the industry in the UK and beyond.
In the Q&A, we tackle your questions on whether you should wax your motorhome, the dos and don’ts of adding extra seat belts, and whether it’s a good idea to slap a tracker sticker on your pride and joy.
âś… MOTORHOME MATT APPROVEDServices, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Mattmhmp.info/approved
🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCEmhmp.info/ripeinsurance
âť“ ASK MATTmhmp.info/askmatt
🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTSmhmp.info/events
đź“ą WATCH ON YOUTUBEmhmp.info/watch
đź’¬ LEAVE A REVIEWmhmp.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.

Monday Feb 17, 2025

In this episode of the Motorhome Matt podcast, it’s been a year since Matt had his big health scare, and we’re revisiting the journey. From unexpected heart surgery to an ongoing road to recovery, Matt opens up about his physical and mental challenges, and why looking after your health is as important as checking your tyre pressure before a big trip.
We also chat with Andrew Dickens, who shares his own health scare, while Keith describes how a severe leg cramp led to a life-changing diagnosis. It’s an open, honest discussion about health—and the importance of getting checked, especially for those of us who sometimes take better care of our vans than ourselves.
Plus, this week is the Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show 2025 at the NEC Birmingham, where Matt will be hosting expert panels and teaming up with Andrew Dickens for a fun dessert-making session. Don’t forget—you can save on tickets with the code MATT.
Plus in the Q&A, Keith from Worthing asks about tyre puncture sealants and reliable inflators, Lewis from Rotherham shares his insurance problem (and how Ripe stepped up), and Robert from sunny Spain wonders if he’ll be able to drive a 4.25-tonne motorhome on a B licence.
âś… MOTORHOME MATT APPROVEDServices, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Mattmhmp.info/approved
đź›’ PRODUCT OF THE WEEKwww.thatleisureshop.com
🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCEmhmp.info/ripeinsurance
⛺️ CAMPSITE OF THE MONTHmhmp.info/alanrogers
âť“ ASK MATTmhmp.info/askmatt
🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTSmhmp.info/events
đź“ą WATCH ON YOUTUBEmhmp.info/watch
đź’¬ LEAVE A REVIEWmhmp.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.

Monday Feb 10, 2025

In this episode of Motorhome Matt, travel expert Simon Calder joins Matt to share his thoughts on motorhomes, European travel rules, and the latest disruptions in the travel industry. While Simon loves the idea of adventure, he reveals why his own motorhome experience was short-lived. What went wrong? Tune in to find out.
Simon also unpacks the upcoming ETIAS and EES travel regulations, explaining how they will impact motorhome travellers heading to Europe. With rumours of delays and confusion over what’s required, will these rules actually come into effect soon, or is it all just unnecessary panic? 
In the news, Matt and Keith discuss a major gas recall, exclusive discounts for the NEC Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show 2025, and a stunning campsite in Portugal that could be your next dream destination.
And in the Q&A, Matt tackles your biggest motorhome questions. Can you legally run a diesel heater from an external fuel tank? How do you fix a jammed Thetford toilet flap? What’s the process for upping a motorhome’s weight limit? He’s got the answers.
âś… MOTORHOME MATT APPROVEDServices, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Mattmhmp.info/approved
🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCEmhmp.info/ripeinsurance
⛺️ CAMPSITE OF THE MONTHmhmp.info/alanrogers
âť“ ASK MATTmhmp.info/askmatt
🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTSmhmp.info/events
đź“ą WATCH ON YOUTUBEmhmp.info/watch
đź’¬ LEAVE A REVIEWmhmp.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.

Monday Feb 03, 2025

This week on the Motorhome Matt podcast, Matt and Keith dive into the world of energy management on campsites, busting myths and discussing how things are changing to meet the growing needs of motorhome and caravan enthusiasts.
Matt chats with Harry King from MetPow, a company transforming how campsites manage electricity with smart, pay-as-you-go systems. Harry sets the record straight on the myth that campsites are profiting massively from electricity, and explains how these new systems give campers control over their energy use, encouraging smarter choices and lower costs.
Expect some eye-opening insights into how increased transparency around energy use benefits both campsites and guests, all while helping to protect the planet.
Plus, in the Q&A, Matt answers your questions on the best fridge for hot climates, top anti-theft devices for your motorhome parked at home, and the best sat nav for your European adventures.
âś… MOTORHOME MATT APPROVEDServices, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Mattmhmp.info/approved
🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCEmhmp.info/ripeinsurance
âť“ ASK MATTmhmp.info/askmatt
🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTSmhmp.info/events
đź“ą WATCH ON YOUTUBEmhmp.info/watch
đź’¬ LEAVE A REVIEWmhmp.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.

Monday Jan 27, 2025

This week on the Motorhome Matt Podcast, Matt and Keith bring you the latest highlights, news, and expert insights from the Caravan, Motorhome, and Holiday Show 2025!
Join Matt as he wanders around the show to get a glimpse into what the industry could have in store for 2025, including exclusive discounts on 2024 motorhomes, if prices are increasing or decreasing, how to make the most of payload solutions with trailers, and the rise of luxury lodges. 
Learn about premium pop-top campers and how to get cost-effective solutions for your motorhome’s damaged exterior and interior panels.
In the Q&A, Matt answers your questions about converting heating systems to diesel, using SIM cards for motorhome Wi-Fi abroad, and tackling parking challenges for larger vehicles. It’s a jam-packed episode you won’t want to miss!
A big thank you to all our guests: Hayden Yates from North Wales Resorts, John Blackman from Ted’s Trailers, Jay Wilson and Mark Butterworth from E S Hartley, Mike Powell from Caravan Panels, Rob Debenham and Ben Myatt from Clarion, Tom Heeney from Landseer, and Kevin from Manchester.
âś… MOTORHOME MATT APPROVEDServices, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Mattmhmp.info/approved
đź›’ PRODUCT OF THE WEEKwww.thatleisureshop.com/pathway4g
⛺️ CAMPSITE OF THE MONTHmhmp.info/alanrogers
âť“ ASK MATTmhmp.info/askmatt
🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTSmhmp.info/events
đź“ą WATCH ON YOUTUBEmhmp.info/watch
đź’¬ LEAVE A REVIEWmhmp.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.

Monday Jan 20, 2025

This week on the Motorhome Matt podcast, Matt and Keith dive into the age-old debate: is bigger always better? Of course, we're talking about motorhomes. From spacious American RVs to luxurious A-class models and nimble panel van conversions, Matt shares his personal journey through nearly 20 motorhomes, reflecting on the trade-offs and lessons learned along the way.
They also address some pressing industry news, including the worrying rise of unsafe gas cylinder refilling practices and the challenges posed by the closure of LPG refill stations. 
Plus, in our first Alan Rogers Campsite of the Month in 2025, the spotlight is on Camping Jungfrau in Switzerland—a stunning, year-round destination known for its top-notch facilities and commitment to sustainability.
In the Q&A, Matt tackles listener questions about leisure batteries, including how to handle smart alternators and the potential of sodium-ion batteries replacing lithium. He also offers practical advice on water heater odours after periods of disuse.
âś… MOTORHOME MATT APPROVEDServices, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Mattmhmp.info/approved
⛺️ CAMPSITE OF THE MONTHmhmp.info/alanrogers
âť“ ASK MATTmhmp.info/askmatt
🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTSmhmp.info/events
đź“ą WATCH ON YOUTUBEmhmp.info/watch
đź’¬ LEAVE A REVIEWmhmp.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.

Monday Jan 13, 2025

This week on the Motorhome Matt Podcast, Matt and Keith dive into the best ways to get reliable internet in your motorhome, caravan, or campervan.
Matt explores various options, from mobile data plans to portable routers, helping you figure out what works best depending on your needs and the areas you'll be visiting.
Plus, we have an exciting announcement! Our exclusive Pathway 4G portable router is now available with ÂŁ50 off for the first 50 sold! It promises a simple and affordable solution for internet on the go. Tune in to hear more about this special offer and how this handy device could be just what you need for your next adventure.
In the Q&A, Matt shares details about a new law in Spain that will change how you handle breakdowns on the road. Plus, he tackles the ongoing debate between full lithium battery installations and portable power stations.
đź›’ PATHWAY 4Ghttps://www.thatleisureshop.com/pathway4g/?utm_source=mm&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=pathway4g
âś… MOTORHOME MATT APPROVEDServices, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Mattmhmp.info/approved
âť“ ASK MATTmhmp.info/askmatt
🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTSmhmp.info/events
đź“ą WATCH ON YOUTUBEmhmp.info/watch
đź’¬ LEAVE A REVIEWmhmp.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.

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Who is Motorhome Matt?

Referred to as “BBC Radio 5’s motorhome consultant” on Wake up to Money 5 live, Matt Sims runs multiple award-winning businesses around motorhome hire, sales, storage and accessories.

What is this podcast about?

Quite simply, the Motorhome Matt podcast is a lighthearted look at the can of worms that is buying, owning, using and selling a motorhome. It’s the place to find useful, honest, genuine and impartial advice on a host of subjects around motorhoming.

Why should I listen to him?

Do you have questions that you felt were too stupid to ask? Well, on the Motorhome Matt Podcast no query is out of bounds! Matt knows the reason for his success is always asking the questions that everyone is thinking – yet no one is saying.

With years of experience in the motorhome industry, he has helped thousands of consumers navigate the trail to owning, selling and (of course) using a motorhome.

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