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

Monday Feb 19, 2024

Should you pack your kids' bags and send them off camping with their friends? This week, Matt and Keith delve into the world of Petruth Paddocks, a unique campsite near Cheddar that offers young campers both independence and the joy of outdoor experiences.
Jules Sayer, the campsite owner, shares insights into their mission to foster independence and outdoor exploration in children—and explains how a "behaviour bond" helps keep all visitors in check.
Plus, Matt's teenage son, Reuben, joins us to recount his camping holiday at Petruth Paddocks, providing a firsthand perspective from the kids' point of view.
In the news, we unpack a recent survey conducted by the RAC on whether headlight glare is becoming a bigger issue for drivers. Matt also offers tips on how you can avoid being a headlight dazzler.
In the Q&A, Matt addresses your queries about selecting durable tyres for motorhomes and offers advice on pedal extenders for shorter drivers struggling to reach pedals comfortably.
Find out more about Petruth Paddocks here 👇www.petruthpaddocks.co.uk
Shop Bo-Camp and Crespo furniture here 👇 www.thatleisureshop.com/product-brand/bo-camp
🔶 ASK MATT YOUR QUESTIONS Have you got a question about motorhomes, travel or the leisure industry? Ask Matt and hear the answer to your questions on an upcoming podcast. 👉 mhmp.info/askmatt
📹 WATCH THE PODCAST Watch and subscribe on YouTube @MotorhomeMatt👉 mhmp.info/watch
LISTEN🔸SUBSCRIBE🔸REVIEW🔸SHARE Help grow our community by leaving a review and sharing on your favourite app👉 mhmp.info/review
The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists, ready for the adventure. Get 10% off your first order with the code MATT10.

Monday Feb 12, 2024

This week, Matt and Keith explore the evolving landscape of motorhome finance. With leisure vehicle prices soaring and the impact of the cost of living crisis affecting many, how have finance companies adapted their offerings to ensure customers can still afford their dream motorhome?
Joined by Steve Blake, Sales Manager at Creative Funding Solutions, we explore the intricacies of securing financing for leisure vehicle purchases. From understanding early settlement options, lender flexibility, and the impact of regulated and non-regulated agreements, Steve offers valuable insights to help you make an informed decision on what is now a massive purchase for many.
Shifting gears in the news, we focus on an exciting development: a hydrogen-powered canal boat has hit the water for testing and is making waves in sustainability.
In our Q&A segment, a listener from down under seeks guidance on using bio-friendly cleaning products and, closer to home, another listener requires the down low of AdBlue usage.
➡️ Find out about Motorhome.Finance here 
🔶 ASK MATT YOUR QUESTIONS Have you got a question about motorhomes, travel or the leisure industry? Ask Matt and hear the answer to your questions on an upcoming podcast. 👉 mhmp.info/askmatt
📹 WATCH THE PODCAST Watch and subscribe on YouTube @MotorhomeMatt👉 mhmp.info/watch
LISTEN🔸SUBSCRIBE🔸REVIEW🔸SHARE Help grow our community by leaving a review and sharing on your favourite app👉 mhmp.info/review
The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists, ready for the adventure. Get 10% off your first order with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.

Monday Feb 05, 2024

With backlash to the 2023 announcement of a discontinuation of their smaller bottles, Calor Gas began 2024 with a huge u-turn: the small bottles will be reintroduced this year. But that's not the only big changes happening at Calor Gas...
This week, Matt and Keith are diving into the recent changes to Calor's line up and their exciting investment into a groundbreaking renewable energy.
We're heading off on a journey into renewable DME (Dimethyl Ether) and its potential impact on refillable gas bottles, motorhomes and cars.
Matt shares insights into Calor's plans for a sustainable future and the shift towards cleaner, more eco-friendly fuel alternatives, from production process, customer benefits, and the challenges this transition could bring.
In the news, Matt and Keith discuss recent developments in the Red Sea region to unpack if they're having an effect on vehicle lead times and causing a price increase on leisure vehicle accessories.
In this week's Q&A, Matt offers advice on navigating price protection agreements that aren't being upheld and understanding why wood is still used in some motorhomes.
Shop Maypole Power Pack and compressor here 👇www.thatleisureshop.com/maypole-800a-lithium-ion-power-pack-and-charger-mp7435
🔶 ASK MATT YOUR QUESTIONS Have you got a question about motorhomes, travel or the leisure industry? Ask Matt and hear the answer to your questions on an upcoming podcast. 👉 mhmp.info/askmatt
📹 WATCH THE PODCAST Watch and subscribe on YouTube @MotorhomeMatt👉 mhmp.info/watch
LISTEN🔸SUBSCRIBE🔸REVIEW🔸SHARE Help grow our community by leaving a review and sharing on your favourite app👉 mhmp.info/review
The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists, ready for the adventure. Get 10% off your first order with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.

Monday Jan 29, 2024

What is reverse polarity? Why is it crucial to address it? And how do you fix it to ensure you and your motorhome's safety? This week, Matt and Keith dive into your motorhome electrical systems to unpack the often misunderstood reverse polarity. 
Matt breaks down the complexities of alternating current and the potential pitfalls of incorrectly wired campsites, especially prevalent in rural areas or on the continent. Demystifying electrical safety, we provide a simple list of products and best practices that are easily followed whilst on the road to ensure your safety wherever you hook up.
In the Q&A, Matt offers expert recommendations on satnav units for motorhomes, the pros and cons of rear lounge motorhome layouts, and guidance on Crit'Air stickers for low-emission zones throughout Europe.
Shop hook up accessories here 👇www.thatleisureshop.com/hook-up
Shop Wellington Boots here 👇www.thatleisureshop.com/ultra-light-wellington-ankle-boots/
🔶 ASK MATT YOUR QUESTIONS Have you got a question about motorhomes, travel or the leisure industry? Ask Matt and hear the answer to your questions on an upcoming podcast. 👉 mhmp.info/askmatt
📹 WATCH THE PODCAST Watch and subscribe on YouTube @MotorhomeMatt👉 mhmp.info/watch
LISTEN🔸SUBSCRIBE🔸REVIEW🔸SHARE Help grow our community by leaving a review and sharing on your favourite app👉 mhmp.info/review
The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists, ready for the adventure. Get 10% off your first order with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.

Monday Jan 22, 2024

This week, Matt leaves Keith to hold down the fort in the studio as they take you up to Manchester for the Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Show. Discover the latest trends, customer insights, and highlights from the event, as Matt investigates predictions for 2024 in the motorhome industry.
From the buzz of the latest motorhome models to the hidden gems on display, we walk through the show to discover what you can expect in the motorhome market this year.
Plus, Matt answers your questions about keeping battery voltage high during colder weather, EU checklists and handbooks, sim cards for getting internet on the go and... a Scotland meet and greet?
Thanks to everyone who took the time to speak to us at the show:
Rob Debenham, Show Director
Jamie Wilkinson, GPSBob
Glen Campbell, Preston Caravans and Motorhomes
Brian Laing, Glossop Caravans
Phil Barker, Emm Bee Motorhomes
Hayden Yates, North Wales Resorts
Jason Mawdsley, Tottington Motor Company
Brendan Riley, Comedian
Andrew, Show Visitor
Monty the Bear, Modern Mobility
Andy Jenkinson, Caravan Industry Expert
Download our prepping for winter guide here: www.thatleisureshop.com/winter
🔶 ASK MATT YOUR QUESTIONS Have you got a question about motorhomes, travel or the leisure industry? Ask Matt and hear the answer to your questions on an upcoming podcast. 👉 mhmp.info/askmatt
📹 WATCH THE PODCAST Watch and subscribe on YouTube @MotorhomeMatt👉 mhmp.info/watch
LISTEN🔸SUBSCRIBE🔸REVIEW🔸SHARE Help grow our community by leaving a review and sharing on your favourite app👉 mhmp.info/review
The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists, ready for the adventure. Get 10% off your first order with the code MATT10.

Monday Jan 15, 2024

A destroyed campervan. Every owner's nightmare. This week, Motorhome Matt and Keith delve into the safety of lithium batteries in motorhomes, sharing a firsthand account from a listener whose motorhome tragically caught fire due to a lithium battery fault. Matt discusses the crucial aspects of lithium battery installations, the dangers and best practices to avoid disaster.
Shifting gears, in the news we unpack the recent 20 mph speed limits in Wales providing insights into the potential impacts of lowered speed limits in certain areas and discussing how it might affect motorhome travel.
In the Q&A, Matt tackles your burning questions, ranging from solar panel charging concerns for Fiat Ducato start-stop systems to toilet bowl size adjustments and the legality of towing cars with A-frames in the Republic of Ireland.
Read KS Energy's full statement:
"Dear Matt,
We appreciate the opportunity to address the recent recall of a small batch of batteries manufactured by our company.
Our top priority has always been the safety and satisfaction of our customers. Once we became aware of the fault we immediately reported it to the OPSS (Office of Product Safety and Standards) and action was taken to identify and locate the affected batteries, and we are pleased to confirm that all recalled units have been successfully collected. Working closely with our customers, we have ensured that replacements or suitable alternatives were provided promptly, minimizing any inconvenience.
Our insurers have underwritten losses on Simon Fox’s motorhome and his premium should not be affected. It's important to note that all batteries currently in circulation are not affected by the recall, and customers can continue to use them with confidence. Our revised product, thoroughly tested and free from the potential fault found in the seat base version, is now available.
We remain committed to supplying high-quality products to motorhome owners and the leisure community. Our dedication to safety and value for money is unwavering, and we believe in providing a premium product for our customers' investments.
Thank you for allowing us to address this matter, and we assure our customers of our ongoing commitment to their satisfaction and safety.
Sincerely,Stuart Allen and Richard Gleeson Directors, KS Energy"
🔶 ASK MATT YOUR QUESTIONS Have you got a question about motorhomes, travel or the leisure industry? Ask Matt and hear the answer to your questions on an upcoming podcast. 👉 mhmp.info/askmatt
📹 WATCH THE PODCAST Watch and subscribe on YouTube @MotorhomeMatt👉 mhmp.info/watch
LISTEN🔸SUBSCRIBE🔸REVIEW🔸SHARE Help grow our community by leaving a review and sharing on your favourite app👉 mhmp.info/review
The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists, ready for the adventure. Get 10% off your first order with the code MATT10.

Monday Jan 08, 2024

This week, Matt and Keith delve into the rising presence of European brand Etrusco in the UK's motorhome market. Discover the allure behind Etrusco's expanding popularity, featuring a detailed breakdown of their standout models and intriguing layout options. 
We're pleased to be joined by Christian and Sandra from Estrusco, to unpack the unique features, competitive pricing, and the growing interest garnered by these exceptional motorhomes.
In the Q&A, Matt is here to answer your questions on securing safe drinking water while travelling in Europe, unravelling the intricacies of tracker subscriptions and the evolving landscape of motorhome licenses.
👇 GET TICKETS TO THE CARAVAN, MOTORHOME AND HOLIDAY SHOW 2024mhmp.info/manchester
🔶 ASK MATT YOUR QUESTIONS Have you got a question about motorhomes, travel or the leisure industry? Ask Matt and hear the answer to your questions on an upcoming podcast. 👉 mhmp.info/askmatt
📹 WATCH THE PODCAST Watch and subscribe on YouTube @MotorhomeMatt👉 mhmp.info/watch
LISTEN🔸SUBSCRIBE🔸REVIEW🔸SHARE Help grow our community by leaving a review and sharing on your favourite app👉 mhmp.info/review
The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists, ready for the adventure. Get 10% off your first order with the code MATT10.
Thanks for listening!

Monday Jan 01, 2024

Happy New Year! We're kicking off 2024 with a buffet of topics. Matt and Keith serve a platter of tips, citing ongoing sales and potential deals in the market, plus predictions on campsite bookings amidst a surge in demand.
That's not the only surge we've noticed. Cookbooks are on the rise and this week we are excited to feature the wonderful Harrison Ward, a.k.a. Fell Foodie, and his recently released book, Cook Out. This stunning book features one-pot recipes tailored for life in the outdoors. Harrison shares his inspiration behind the cookbook and where his love of outdoor cooking began.
In the news, we unpack a new crackdown on motorhomes parking at Portishead, near Bristol, highlighting concerns about waste dumping and the evolving landscape of parking restrictions among councils.
Moving to the Q&A segment, Joe and Jo get in touch to ask about fitting Wi-Fi shock antennas and discuss concerns about adapting electric vehicles for specific mobility needs.
👇 WIN TICKETS TO THE CARAVAN, MOTORHOME AND HOLIDAY SHOWhttps://mhmp.info/win
👇 Buy Cook Out by Harrison Wardwww.thatleisureshop.com/cook-out-by-harrison-ward
🔶 ASK MATT YOUR QUESTIONS Have you got a question about motorhomes, travel or the leisure industry? Ask Matt and hear the answer to your questions on an upcoming podcast. 👉 mhmp.info/askmatt
📹 WATCH THE PODCAST Watch and subscribe on YouTube @MotorhomeMatt👉 mhmp.info/watch
LISTEN🔸SUBSCRIBE🔸REVIEW🔸SHARE Help grow our community by leaving a review and sharing on your favourite app👉 mhmp.info/review
The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists, ready for the adventure. Get 10% off your first order with the code MATT10.
Thanks for listening!

2023 Year in Review

Tuesday Dec 26, 2023

Tuesday Dec 26, 2023

Merry Christmas! Join Matt and Keith in our special festive episode, as they delve into the highlights and challenges of 2023 in the world of motorhomes, campervans, and caravans.
Beyond the festivities, we dive deep into the news that matters, including game-changing developments from Calor Gas and your questions on batteries, driving licenses and the trials of travelling with your furry pals abroad. 
Unwrap the gift of all things motorhome this Christmas, discover the past year's unforgettable stories and the challenges faced and get a sneak peek into the exciting road ahead for leisure vehicle enthusiasts like you. 
Happy holidays and see you next year!
👇 WIN TICKETS TO THE CARAVAN, MOTORHOME AND HOLIDAY SHOWhttps://mhmp.info/win
*Roger Carpenter, Portsmouth:Jon from Life Beyond Bricks has an Autoterm 2kw diesel heater
🔶 ASK MATT YOUR QUESTIONS Have you got a question about motorhomes, travel or the leisure industry? Ask Matt and hear the answer to your questions on an upcoming podcast. 👉 mhmp.info/askmatt
📹 WATCH THE PODCAST Watch and subscribe on YouTube @MotorhomeMatt👉 mhmp.info/watch
LISTEN🔸SUBSCRIBE🔸REVIEW🔸SHARE Help grow our community by leaving a review and sharing on your favourite app👉 mhmp.info/review
The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists, ready for the adventure. Get 10% off your first order with the code MATT10.
Thanks for listening!

Who are Falcon Technology?

Monday Dec 18, 2023

Monday Dec 18, 2023

Join Matt and Keith this week as they learn about the story behind motorhome security and entertainment specialists, Falcon Technology.
Delve behind the scenes with Chris Williams, the driving force behind Falcon Technology, and learn about their range of products designed specifically for motorhomes.
Uncover Chris's vision for Falcon's future in the leisure industry, with his belief in turning challenges into opportunities, and creating a range that is effective yet affordable.
In the news, discover how Lancelot Bill Walker's fraudulent activities highlight the importance of caution when buying a motorhome.
And in the Q&A, we answer your questions on charging e-bikes, winterising your motorhome and water pumps.
👇 WIN TICKETS TO THE CARAVAN, MOTORHOME AND HOLIDAY SHOWhttps://mhmp.info/win
👇 Learn about Falcon Technologyfalcontechnology.co.uk
👇 Shop our Christmas gift ideaswww.thatleisureshop.com/product-brand/falcon
👇 Find out about Pay Like a Pro heremhmp.info/playlikeapro
🔶 ASK MATT YOUR QUESTIONS Have you got a question about motorhomes, travel or the leisure industry? Ask Matt and hear the answer to your questions on an upcoming podcast. 👉 mhmp.info/askmatt
📹 WATCH THE PODCAST Watch and subscribe on YouTube @MotorhomeMatt👉 mhmp.info/watch
LISTEN🔸SUBSCRIBE🔸REVIEW🔸SHARE Help grow our community by leaving a review and sharing on your favourite app👉 mhmp.info/review
The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists, ready for the adventure. Get 10% off your first order with the code MATT10.
Thanks for listening!

Monday Dec 11, 2023

Is a motorhome warranty worth the paper it's written on? It's a sentence we've heard time and time again. So, this week Matt and Keith unpack motorhome warranties and if it's necessary when buying a motorhome or caravan. 
Featuring an interview from MB&G Insurance, we unravel warranty coverage, types of warranties, claim limits, rising premium costs and the common types of claims.
In the news, more controversies surround Smart Motorways as it is revealed National Highways have spent a significant amount of money to defend legal actions connected to incidents. www.lbc.co.uk/news/coroners-write-national-highways-smart-motorways
And in the Q&A, we answer your questions on using Solbio organic toilet chemical, and we also discuss fighting condensation.
👇 WIN TICKETS TO THE CARAVAN, MOTORHOME AND HOLIDAY SHOWhttps://mhmp.info/win
👇 Learn about MB&G https://mbginsurance.co.uk
👇 Shop our Christmas gift ideaswww.thatleisureshop.com/feature
👇 Enquire about 50% off motorhome hirewww.motorhomeholidaycompany.com/links
👇 Find out about Pay Like a Pro heremhmp.info/playlikeapro
🔶 ASK MATT YOUR QUESTIONS Have you got a question about motorhomes, travel or the leisure industry? Ask Matt and hear the answer to your questions on an upcoming podcast. 👉 mhmp.info/askmatt
📹 WATCH THE PODCAST Watch and subscribe on YouTube @MotorhomeMatt👉 mhmp.info/watch
LISTEN🔸SUBSCRIBE🔸REVIEW🔸SHARE Help grow our community by leaving a review and sharing on your favourite app👉 mhmp.info/review
The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists, ready for the adventure. Get 10% off your first order with the code MATT10.
Thanks for listening!

Monday Dec 04, 2023

In this week's episode, Matt and Keith unravel the intricacies of preparing your caravan or motorhome for winter travel. From essential preparations for harsh weather to tips for a cosy trip, they share expert insights for a safe and enjoyable winter adventure.
Discover the crucial items to pack, key checks to do before your journey, motorhome features that can't cope in cold conditions and essential kit needed for winter travels. 
In the Q&A, Matt answers your questions on motorhome weight restrictions and whether it's good to stay light, a brand new motorhome affected by water ingress and important things to consider when buying your first motorhome.
Shop Falcon TVs here 👇www.thatleisureshop.com/product-brand/falcon
Find out about Pay Like a Pro here 👇mhmp.info/playlikeapro
🔶 ASK MATT YOUR QUESTIONS Have you got a question about motorhomes, travel or the leisure industry? Ask Matt and hear the answer to your questions on an upcoming podcast. 👉 mhmp.info/askmatt
📹 WATCH THE PODCAST Watch and subscribe on YouTube @MotorhomeMatt👉 mhmp.info/watch
LISTEN🔸SUBSCRIBE🔸REVIEW🔸SHARE Help grow our community by leaving a review and sharing on your favourite app👉 mhmp.info/review
The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists, ready for the adventure. Get 10% off your first order with the code MATT10.
Thanks for listening!

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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.

Copyright 2023 All rights reserved.

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