Motorhome Matt

Are motorhomes welcome on the NC500? With highlands2hammocks

This week Matt and Keith are joined by the wonderful Campbell and Gemma from highlands2hammocks to tackle issues of overcrowding and responsible tourism in the north of Scotland and, crucially, on the popular NC500 route.
Gemma and Campbell share their journey from living in a tiny campervan in Australia to becoming full-time motorhome travellers and content creators, from the inception of highlands2hammocks to their passion for documenting their adventures and educating fellow travellers.
Unpacking the realities of wild camping in the Highlands, we explore the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, the importance of respecting local communities and whether these areas can sustain the huge surge in tourism from the last few years. 
Plus, in the news, hear Matt and Keith's opinions on a proposed vehicle levy for motorhomers and caravanners on the NC500.
In the Q&A, Matt answers your questions on adding extra leisure batteries, showers at campsites and replacing LED light strips.
Shop our range of stunning travel books at www.thatleisureshop.com/books
Check out highlands2hammocks here www.highlands2hammocks.co.uk
🔶 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!

Motorhome and Caravan Show 2023 Highlights

We're thrilled to be coming to you once again from the exciting Motorhome and Caravan Show 2023 at the NEC in Birmingham, with Matt's highlights from the week.
The show was an absolute hit, with both Saturday and Sunday completely selling out, bringing in a staggering 26,000 enthusiastic visitors on both days. Over 1,000 motorhomes, campervans, and caravans from various manufacturers across Europe were showcased, making it a true haven for all things recreational vehicles.
Matt had the pleasure of catching up with an old friend, Andy Beer from Premier Motorhomes, to hear his valuable perspective on the industry's current trends and developments.
One of the highlights of the event was the return of innovation to the industry, with new products and models unveiled. Among these was the awe-inspiring £209,000 A-Class luxury motorhome from Coachman, the Imperial model. Built by Kabe in Sweden, this motorhome sets a new standard for luxury with advanced heating systems and auto-levelling technology. In this episode, we had the privilege of interviewing Sales Director Ben Parkin to delve deeper into this magnificent creation and gain insight into the current state of the industry.
Motorhome.Finance from Creative is back once again to offer valuable insights into financing your dream motorhome or caravan.
Matt was also privileged to be invited to the Caravan and Motorhome Club CL of the Year Awards, celebrating excellence in the industry.
Plus, Matt was given a proper lesson. An expert driver trainer, Fliss Spink, also known as the Trailer Lady, took him on a free towing experience, put on at the shows by the Camping and Caravanning Club.
Furthermore, we explored some new models from Frankia and took a close look at the motorhome model now.
Bailey was among the manufacturers launching new models, alongside its new Endeavour EV. We unpack the new diesel Endeavour and Alora ranges.
Falcon Technology's founder and MD, Chris Williams, dives into their range of audio and visual equipment for leisure vehicles, from TVs to routers to solar and batteries.
Throughout the week, we had the pleasure of meeting thousands of you, our loyal listeners, and received hundreds of thought-provoking questions, some of which feature in our Q&A this week.
Now for our gratitude list:
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts to everyone who came to see Keith and me this week. Your support of the podcast is mind-blowing. And thank you to the NCC for inviting Matt to be on the Ask the Experts panel.
Thank you again to our listeners for the kind words, the love, and the cake!
Thank you to all our interviewees for sharing your passion and insights from the industry with us.
Thank you to our sponsors for your support during the show and beyond, Estarli, Fiamma, Falcon, GasStop, Ddipp, Solbio, and Motorhome Finance powered by Creative.
Thank you to Arobase Creative for travelling with us to capture loads of exciting future content.
Thank you to Kudos Companies for creating our unbelievably popular orange bags. And on that note, thank you to Tash from Life Beyond Bricks, Kat from Wandering Bird, and Lyndsay from Roaming Radfords for jumping in when our stand got mobbed for bags!
And lastly, thank you to our amazing team behind the podcast and That Leisure Shop who never settle for less than the absolute best. You guys kill it every time.
🔶 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 over £100 with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.
Thanks for listening!

The Motorhome and Caravan Show Bonus: Audience Q&A

In this bonus episode, join us live from the Motorhome and Caravan Show 2023! Matt and Keith dive into the latest trends, visitor feedback and top products.
Matt shares his experience of the show so far, including participating in the Ask the Experts panel each day and exploring some new manufacturer launches.
We speak to show attendees, including a couple planning an extended European journey and those looking to buy a motorhome but have specific budget considerations. Plus, we answer visitor questions on both streaming and towing abroad.
Tune in to this lively episode for an inside look at the Motorhome and Caravan Show 2023, filled with expert advice and real-life experiences from the show floor. 
A huge thank you to all our sponsors who have supported us at this year's Motorhome and Caravan Show 👇
🔸 estarli e-bikes🔸 Fiamma 🔸 Falcon Technology🔸 GasStop gas safety valve🔸 Ddipp changing robes🔸 Solbio organic toilet fluid🔸 Motorhome Finance powered by Creative
And thank you to Kudos Companies for producing our coveted orange tote bags.
🔶 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 over £100 with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.
Thanks for listening!

How Motorhome Happiness began - Facebook’s largest motorhome community

This week Matt and Keith explore Facebook's largest community of passionate motorhome enthusiasts. With an impressive community of 82,000 members who all share a love for motorhomes and travel, we sit down with none other than the founder of Motorhome Happiness, James Riley.
Discover the inspiration behind James's remarkable journey in creating and managing this thriving Facebook group, where members regularly exchange hints, travel tips, and advice, and seek answers to a wide range of motorhomes-centered questions. 
We explore James's personal story and an amazing strategy he's employing to provide financial assistance to those who otherwise would be unable to experience the joy of a motorhome holiday. 
In the news, this week sees the start of the NEC Motorhome and Caravan Show 2023! Motorhome Matt and the team are on the scene all week, with the Motorhome Matt stand at 9.23b. That Leisure Shop has a range of security and winter essentials at stand 12.100. Tune in as Matt speaks with Karen Dodd, Sales Director of NCC Events, to uncover this year's highlights and new launches.
Plus, we have another opinion on what Vanlife is from Highlands2Hammocks and in the Q&A an old customer of Matt's is looking to make a customisation to their motorhome.
Join the Motorhome Happiness Facebook group here 👇https://www.facebook.com/groups/890664451304624/?mibextid=oMANbw
🔶 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 over £100 with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.
Thanks for listening!

Tour the new all-electric campervan from Bailey: The Endeavour EV

Explore the prototype setting the stage for the next generation of motorhomes. Take an exclusive tour of the Endeavour EV, Bailey of Bristol's groundbreaking EV campervan conversion — the first fully electric campervan from a mainstream UK manufacturer. 
Teaming up with Ford Pro and built on the eTransit platform, this electric concept panel van conversion is a bold step forward in creating fossil-fuel-free leisure vehicles and eco-friendly camping.
From its Truma electric water heater to the ceiling-mounted Dometic heating and cooling system to a two-ring induction hob, Matt unpacks all the technical features and decisions made to create a liveable electric campervan. The Avtex electric dropdown TV and rooftop Wi-Fi aerial add modern touches, while the integrated Alexa system with voice-controlled lighting sends the Endeavour straight into the future.
What truly sets this prototype apart is its commitment to sustainability. The interior design reflects Bailey's dedication to a lower carbon footprint, with worktops crafted from recycled white goods, drawer handles made from recovered ocean plastics, and a cork floor. Matt goes behind the scenes with the design team, led by Chloe Bartlett, who shares insights into the innovative choices and the challenges faced by the Endeavour EV.
Rest assured, Matt has the answer to your number one question: What is the range? As the first media channel invited to take this exceptional campervan on the road for a test drive, we're privileged to provide you with firsthand insights into the genuine viability of the project and carefully unpack crucial information, including payload, range, and usability.
But can you buy one? The answer is no—it is only a prototype. Join Matt as he sits down with Nick and Simon Howard, two of Bailey's senior management team and the driving force behind the business. Discover the motivations behind this forward-thinking project and the vision for Bailey's future motorhomes and campervans.
Read more about the Endeavour EV on Bailey's website at www.baileyofbristol.co.uk/endeavour-electric-campervan
See the Endeavour electric campervan for yourself at the NEC Motorhome and Caravan Show in October 2023.
Still need tickets for the NEC Motorhome and Caravan Show 2023?
Use the code MMATT at checkout to savemotorhomecaravanshow.seetickets.com/tour/the-motorhome-and-caravan-show?OfferCode=MMATT
🔶 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 over £100 with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.
Thanks for listening!

What is Vanlife?

We're 100! 🎉 🎂 🥳 Before we start, Keith and I would just like to thank all of you for listening and supporting the podcast so far. Here's a toast to you all – cheers to a hundred more episodes! 🍻
Now, onto today's subject: what is Vanlife? Can you believe it's our 100th episode and we're still exploring the depths of this global phenomenon? From a trending hashtag to a lifestyle embraced by van-dwellers worldwide, Vanlife has become a cultural force. But, who gets to claim the title of being Vanlife?
Lately, we've noticed a rising tide of opinions and even hostility, particularly towards those in pre-built manufactured motorhomes and campervans, with people creating their own definitions of the movement.
So, we decided to dive deep into the heart of it. Seeking those who live, travel and work in their leisure vehicles, we posed the question: "How do you define Vanlife, and what does it mean to you?" in an attempt to unravel the mystery.
A big shoutout to our contributors for this episode: Linzi from Quirky Campers, Wandering Bird, Shuvon Shuvoff, Roaming Radfords, Slowly Wilding, Vanlove Fest, These Wild Journeys, Adventure Overland Show, and The Urban Motorhome.
Did we manage to demystify Vanlife? Join us as we navigate through diverse viewpoints. We're thrilled to share this milestone episode with you, and who knows, by the end, we might just crack the code on what Vanlife truly means.
In the Q&A we tackle charging your solar panels when using a motorhome cover, the form you need to take with you when travelling on the continent and a tripping heating system.
We are proud to partner with Wandering Bird. If you're new to motorhoming and need tips on touring Europe, going off-grid or maintaining your motorhome then check out the Wandering Bird website at www.wandering-bird.com. Plus, use the code MOTORHOMEMATT to save 10% on all her really useful guides and books.
🔶 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 over £100 with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.
Thanks for listening!

Motorhome heating innovation from Webasto

This week we're taking you back to Caravan Salon in Dusseldorf, where many manufacturers appeared to be playing it safe, but one company stood out with trailblazing innovation. 
Known for its diesel heating systems, whose days are numbered as we move to EV, Webasto has not been sitting back and waiting. Instead, they're venturing into exciting new territory. We had the privilege of sitting down with Sebastian Sonnek, Head of Systems at Webasto, who shared fascinating insights.
One innovation we discovered is a diesel heater designed for retrofitting into electric cars, providing efficient fossil-fueled heating whilst extending the electric vehicle's range during chilly winters. With lower temperatures affecting electric vehicle range and the need for warmth further reducing it, this 5-litre diesel tank-fed system offers a game-changing solution during the transitional period to all-electric. Plus, this system can even be used on eFuels.
That's not all. Webasto's second game-changer is a complete battery management system that not only maintains optimal battery temperatures but also heats the living space in your vehicle. Already deployed in several German buses and with future plans for leisure vehicles, this ingenious system is a testament to Webasto's commitment to shaping the future of this industry.
Plus, in the news this week we discuss the viability of diesel motorhomes being converted to electric and in the Q&A it's more gas, more gas!
Shop Kontrol 👇www.thatleisureshop.com/product-brand/kontrol
🔶 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 over £100 with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.
Thanks for listening!

A first look at the brand new Adria Twin for 2024

Join us on an exciting journey as we explore the Adria stand at the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf 2023. Adria, renowned for innovation, unveils its remarkable lineup, including the stunning Supersonic, Coral, and Matrix models. But the real showstopper is the highly anticipated new Adria Twin, now built on the MAN chassis.
In this episode, Matt delves into this daring move by Adria, breaking down the key features and innovations made to overcome the challenges of this new chassis. We're joined by Mash Vanstone, National Account Manager, who provides us with an exclusive first look at the Adria Twin on the MAN chassis.
Exciting news awaits as we reveal details of how you can see and order the Adria Twin on the MAN chassis. Although, there will be only a very limited number of units will be available. While the exact price is yet to be confirmed, we anticipate it to be in excess of £90,000.
But that's not all! We also explore Adria's forward-thinking approach, giving you a sneak peek into their 2025 Twin models on the FIAT Ducato chassis. Tune in to discover the future of motorhome innovation with Adria.
In the Q&A, Matt and Keith unpack your questions on recovery drivers, installing refillable LPG systems and winterising your motorhome.
🔶 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 over £100 with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.
Thanks for listening!

Wandering Bird: Solo motorhome travel and work-life balance

Join Matt this week as he sits down with Kat Bird, aka Wandering Bird. In this engaging conversation, Kat shares her incredible journey from conventional life to full-time motorhome living, all while building a successful brand around her adventures. Discover her insights into the motorhome industry and learn how she's helping individuals embrace solo travel and overcome their fears. 
Dive deep into her experiences in Iceland, mental health, and the challenges and rewards of being a solopreneur and growing a successful website in the travel and leisure space. Tune in and get inspired by Kat's passion for motorhoming and her dedication to helping others make the most of their free time.
In the news, Matt and Keith focus on the all-new Ford Nugget, shown at the recent Caravan Salon. Matt discusses his first impressions of the van conversion, its unique layout, and its practicality for both families and couples. Plus, we also explore the impact of mainstream car manufacturers like Ford entering the campervan market.
In the audience Q&A, Matt and Keith unpack your questions on rear-view cameras and the different options available in the market and a throwback to our previous episode on emptying your cassette toilet down your toilet at home.
Find out more about Kat's books and courses online at www.wandering-bird.com and use the code MOTORHOMEMATT for 10% off.
🔶 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 over £100 with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.
Thanks for listening!

New products and innovation from Caravan Salon 2023

Join us for a special episode as we take you inside the bustling Caravan Salon 2023 in Dusseldorf! Discover the latest trend towards self-sufficiency and off-grid living in motorhomes and campervans. 
Learn how familiar names like Adria and Roller Team offer a broader range than you might expect and that there are some brands on the continent you may have never heard of.
The tech nerd he is, Matt uncovers his highlights of the show on a much smaller stand, very easy to miss as you walk around. This is a future-gazing product that could solve many issues facing our industry.
Surprisingly, electric vehicle innovation is still in its early stages at the show, with only a few notable exceptions. Is it that the big manufacturers are biding their time, allowing smaller, innovative businesses to take the lead in creating and testing new EV products? 
Our industry thrives on innovation, and these pioneers are paving the way for a greener future in motorhomes. Caravan Salon provides a stage to showcase these new products and drive our industry forward. Join us for an exciting journey through the future of motorhomes, caravans and campervans.
In the news, there's another motorhome being dragged into politics! Although, this one doesn't have a big slogan and didn't cost hundreds of thousands of pounds. 
In the Q&A, Matt answers your queries about Crit'Air stickers and insuring your new, more expensive, motorhome.
🔶 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 over £100 with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.
Thanks for listening!

RAC motorhome breakdown experiences

This week, we invited and arranged for the RAC to join us. We've previously spoken to Edmund King, President of The AA, and engaged with responses from other breakdown services. Paul Coward, the CEO of RAC's servicing, maintenance and repair division, contacted us after Matt's recent positive experience with RAC cover. He recommended Simon Williams from their Communications team to join us to discuss some of their new services. However, as you'll soon hear, it didn't go to plan...
In the Q&A, Matt and Keith also address your inquiries about refilling with LPG in France, and why specific dispensers might be causing refilling hiccups. And of course, we revisit the ongoing conversation about toilet and grey waste matters.
🔶 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. www.motorhomematt.co.uk/askmatt
📹 WATCH THE PODCAST Watch and subscribe on YouTube @MotorhomeMatt
LISTEN🔸SUBSCRIBE🔸REVIEW🔸SHARE Help grow our community by leaving a review and sharing on your favourite app.
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 over £100 with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.
Thanks for listening!

Types of motorhome control systems and why they matter when buying a motorhome

Heating and hot water control systems are usually determined by the manufacturer when buying a motorhome, caravan or campervan and they can often be overlooked. This week, Matt and Keith, as they tackle the question: should the control system influence your decision of which motorhome to buy?
From the different types available to how they stack up against each other, Matt and Keith break down the ins and outs to help you make an informed decision.
We also speak with Truma UK to hear details of their innovative touchscreen control panel, iNet X.
In the news, we learn about an alarming statistic: 1 in 10 caravan owners are engaging in activities they definitely shouldn't be...
And don't miss our audience Q&A session, where Matt dives into some of his favourite topics: payload, road tax, and license regulations.
🔶 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. www.motorhomematt.co.uk/askmatt
📹 WATCH THE PODCAST Watch and subscribe on YouTube @MotorhomeMatt
LISTEN🔸SUBSCRIBE🔸REVIEW🔸SHARE Help grow our community by leaving a review and sharing on your favourite app.
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 over £100 with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.
Thanks for listening!