Motorhome Matt

Travelling long-term with kids

In today's episode, comedian Brendan Riley joins us for a chat about his motorhome adventures. Brendan shares his experiences of travelling with his family, offering insights into planning epic trips and getting teenagers excited about hitting the road. 
In the news, we kick things off with our upcoming Motorhome Hire and Sales Open Event happening this Saturday.
This is your chance to meet Matt's award-winning team for a guided tour of our wonderful fleet of motorhomes available for both hire and sale.
The event is free, with on-site parking and complimentary coffee and biscuits all day.
RSVP here: https://fb.me/e/1UGGcRADN
In the Q&A, Matt and Keith address your queries about UK stickers for European trips, the necessity of trackers for added security and the use of orange beacons as an alternative to red triangles.
Learn why the V16 beacons are a game-changer for road safety. 
Get Martin Dorey's second edition of the Camper Van Bible here 👇https://www.thatleisureshop.com/the-camper-van-bible-2nd-edition/
View all Warners shows here 👇mhmp.info/warners
🔶 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.
Thanks for listening!

WIMS: How overweight motorhomes could be easier to detect

What are WIMS? This week, Matt and Keith discuss the potential impact of a new weight detection technology that could catch overweight motorhomes and campervans on the road. "WIMS", or Weight In Motion Sensors have been adapted from existing road analysis technology and weigh vehicles as they drive.
We're joined by the Leisure Vehicles Officer at NaVCIS, who shares insights on the laws surrounding vehicle weight limits and unpacks how WIMS work, why they're being introduced and if they're essential for maintaining safety on our roads.
In the news, Matt and Keith explore the latest trial of technology designed to catch motorists who flout seatbelt laws or use mobile phones while driving.
And finally, in the Q&A, Matt shares advice on using residential solar panels on motorhomes and navigating insurance policies for punctures during European travel.
Shop Adria flyscreen brackets here 👇www.thatleisureshop.com/adria-twin-sliding-door-mosquito-flyscreen-runner-bracket
Start your quote with Ripe 👉 mhmp.info/ripe
🔶 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.

How to up-plate your motorhome and why you would want to

This week, we're tackling a question we've been asked many times: how to up-plate your motorhome. That's right, we're talking payload and (crucially) how you can increase it.
Join Matt as he chats with SvTech, renowned re-rating specialists in the UK, to explore the reasons behind wanting to uprate or downplate your leisure vehicle. Get insights into the process of re-rating a motorhome and the importance of seeking expert advice.
Discover the ins and outs of ensuring your motorhome is appropriately rated for its payload, and learn why accurate vehicle weight declarations are crucial to avoid legal and insurance issues.
In the news, a coroner is asking the government to examine seat belt laws after a tragic accident that killed a mum and two children. Matt and Keith unpack the current regulations and what they mean for motorhome owners.
Plus, we're off to France once again to unveil another Alan Rogers Campsite of the Month, featuring the winner of their Most Accessible Campsite award.
And don't miss out on our Q&A segment, where Matt addresses your queries on reverse polarity and selecting the ideal navigation system for your adventures.
View all Alan Rogers' Campsites of the Month 👇mhmp.info/alanrogers
🔶 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.

Will you be paying for electric on campsites?

This week we're back at Petruth Paddocks to investigate something new appearing in campsites across the UK: Pay-as-you-go hookup meters. These systems are changing the camping experience by requiring campers to pay for their electricity usage on top of their pitch fee. But is this a fair distribution of costs or just another way to squeeze more money out of consumers?
Campsite owner Jules Sayer shares the inside scoop on why they've embraced this innovative system, offering insights into its implementation and sharing some surprising outcomes they've observed.
Matt and Keith dig deeper into the investment required for campsites to implement such systems and speak with the company installing them throughout the country.
In the news, we return to towing regulations in mainland Europe spurred on by someone who disagrees with a key point in our last episode. 
And make sure you stick around for the Q&A section, which takes a heartfelt turn this week. We've been inundated with personal stories from you following Matt's recent health issues, sparking more important conversations on the importance of proactive healthcare.
Check out our Warners Show calendar 👇mhmp.info/warners
Start your quote with Ripe 👇mhmp.info/ripe
🔶 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.

Rising costs and supply chain issues: The challenges behind the motorhome industry

This week we're taking an honest look at the challenges faced by the motorhome industry in both recent years and into the future. In a candid conversation with the Co-Director of Fiamma, Charles Pozzi, we discuss the rising cost of products and the supply chain issues that brands are grappling with.
From navigating shipping costs to planning product development, Charles offers valuable insights into the inner workings of the leisure vehicle industry and shares Fiamma's vision for the future, including their commitment to sustainability initiatives.
We also catch up with Wayne Kavanagh from Chelston Motorhomes to discuss the sales of motorhomes themselves, how the costs of motorhomes are changing and how the industry is adapting to the difference.
In the news, Matt and Keith review the newly unveiled XBus electric campervan and the potential of hydrogen as a fuel source after trillions of tonnes have been discovered underground.
In the Q&A, Matt answers your questions about choosing the right tracker and what "essential" add-ons you really need when buying a motorhome.
Shop Fiamma here 👇www.thatleisureshop.com/product-brand/fiamma
🔶 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.

Are driving licences changing? 4th Directive on Driving Licences

In today's episode, Matt and Keith are diving into the 4th Directive on Driving Licences; what the potential driving licence changes could be and what they would mean for motorhome enthusiasts in the UK and abroad.
We explore updates in driving license regulations, including potential weight limit adjustments, re-tests, cross-border enforcement and the introduction of digital licenses. With Brexit in the mix, there is also the UK's flexibility in adopting new EU directives and their impact on cross-border travel.
David Whitehead, Director of Technical Services at the National Caravan Council, shares his insights on these changes and their implications for motorhome travellers.
In the news, we shed light on crucial changes to border crossing procedures out of the UK with the introduction of the Entry/Exit System (EES) in October 2024. 
In the Q&A, Matt tackles your concerns about vehicle tax and driving license classifications - could this listener be paying too much tax?
Plus, Alan Rogers is back to tell you about another of their award-winning campsites in our new Campsite of the Month feature.
See Alan Rogers' campsites here 👇mhmp.info/alanrogers
Read about the EES here👇travel-europe.europa.eu/ees_en 
🔶 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.

Matt's Recovery: From a cough to heart surgery

In today's episode, we're veering off our usual motorhome topics to discuss something a little closer to home: Matt's recent major health scare. 
Matt leads you through his journey, from those initial warning signs to the heart surgery that saved the day. But more importantly, we're here to remind you of the importance of listening to your body and not ignoring those nagging concerns.
But here's the good news: Matt's on the road to recovery, and we're thrilled to have him back in the driver's seat. 
In the news, we delve into several pressing issues. First, we discuss the unexpected layoffs at Erwin Hymer, a stark contrast to the substantial investment they received just three years ago. Additionally, overnight parking has resurfaced in the headlines, with a mix of positive and negative stories making their way into the limelight.
In our Q&A segment, Matt addresses your questions regarding drinking water from onboard tanks and the necessity of an accident report form in Europe.
Check out our upcoming events here👇mhmp.info/events
Shop Crespo here 👇www.thatleisureshop.com/product-brand/crespo
🔶 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.

Sustainable travel with Martin Dorey

In today's episode, Matt talks with environmental activist Martin Dorey to unpack how the motorhome industry is doing in the move to greener travel. 
As a passionate advocate for sustainable camping practices, Martin discussed his upcoming release, The Green Camping Book, aimed at inspiring environmentally conscious camping. Plus, he reveals details on his upcoming journey this year: a bike tour across Europe WITH SURFBOARDS in tow (we knew he was a little crazy but this takes the cake).
From sustainable motorhome features to reducing your carbon footprint on the road, Martin shares practical and down-to-earth tips on how you can make your travels better for the environment
In the news, Keith and Matt dive into the pressing issue of parking in Exmouth, unpacking the complexities of parking zones and the challenges faced by residents, commuters, and visitors.
And in the Q&A, Matt also addresses your question on the worthiness of air suspension, the EU compliance of LNB Towbars, and the viability of the EcoFlow Delta 2 as a lithium alternative.
Have a burning question or topic you want to explore? Send them to Matt at mhmp.info/matt and join the conversation!
Shop Martin's books here 👇www.thatleisureshop.com/non-fiction
Check our upcoming shows here 👇mhmp.info/warners
🔶 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.

New products at the Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show 2024

What was new at the Caravan, Camping, and Motorhome Show 2024? In this episode, Matt leaves Keith in the studio and heads to Birmingham in search of new products, new brands and innovation hitting the motorhome industry.
Safe to say, we weren’t disappointed. From new-to-the-UK cutting-edge motorhomes by Globe Traveller to the debut of Project Yonder's custom-built Sprinter van with off-grid capabilities, there's no shortage of new brands this year.
Discover how established companies like BritStops and Protec Covers are undergoing significant changes under new ownership, signalling continued investment in the industry.
Plus, explore the expansion of the leisure vehicle market from other industries with the introduction of new brands like Wolf Outdoors and GN-Espace.
Learn about Solbio's latest offering (no, Matt’ didn’t drink it this time) a brand-new water tank cleaner with ground-breaking science behind it.
We stop by Alan Rogers to hear about their recent campsite awards and then announce two new partnerships with some familiar faces in the industry.
And lastly, we speak to you, our listeners (and even a non-listener) for your honest thoughts on the 2024 show. Tune into a packed episode with insights on the latest trends and motorhome gear.
🔶 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.

How I got my teenager to enjoy a camping holiday

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.

How is motorhome finance changing and what do you need to know?

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.

What's happening to Calor Gas?

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.