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 Jun 10, 2024

This week Matt is live from Campervan Campout for a thought-provoking discussion on the perceptions and inclusivity within the van life community. 
With guests, The Roaming Radfords, Absolutely Lucy, Slowly Wilding, Built not Bought Campers, Vanlove Fest, Amy from Van Life Family and Iain Duff from Campervan Magazine, we explore the multifaceted nature of van life, dismantling stereotypes and celebrating the diverse experiences that enrich this vibrant culture. 
From candid reflections on personal journeys to profound insights into the evolving dynamics of van life events, this episode offers a nuanced exploration of the community's ethos.
Through our guests' experiences, we form a wider understanding of the connection between motorhome living and the pursuit of personal fulfilment, away from perceived judgments.
Alan Rogers is back with another award-winning campsite of the month. This time we head to Le Brasilia campsite in France. Discover its incredible features, from an expansive pool and wellness centre to the charming shopping arcade.
And back to the studio with Keith for the Q&A, Matt answers your questions on tyre pressure and warning lights, the environmental impacts of heavier motorhomes and navigating warranty coverage across borders.
✅ MOTORHOME MATT APPROVEDServices, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Mattmhmp.info/approved
⛺️ CAMPSITE OF THE MONTHmhmp.info/alanrogers
❓ ASK MATTmhmp.info/askmatt
🗓️ UPCOMING SHOWSmhmp.info/shows
📹 WATCH ON YOUTUBEmhmp.info/watch
💬 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 Jun 03, 2024

In this episode of the Motorhome Matt podcast, Matt and Keith tackle what could be causing the rising costs of motorhome insurance premiums.
We dive into key causes like supply chain issues, labour shortages, increased energy and fuel costs, and global events like the war in Ukraine, Brexit, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Plus, we get insights from Ripe, an award-winning insurance company, to shed light on these factors. 
In the Q&A, Matt answers your questions on reinstating a C1 entitlement after giving it up at 70, clarification on toll road classifications for motorhomes and leaving your motorhome fridge door open.
✅ MOTORHOME MATT APPROVEDServices, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Mattmhmp.info/approved
🛒 PRODUCT OF THE WEEKwww.thatleisureshop.com/balcondry-clothes-dryer
❓ ASK MATTmhmp.info/askmatt
🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTSmhmp.info/events
📹 WATCH ON YOUTUBEmhmp.info/watch
💬 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 May 27, 2024

Welcome back to the Motorhome Matt Podcast, your go-to source for all things motorhome! 
In this episode, Keith and Matt dive into the hot topic of motorhome deposits. Have you ever wondered if you can reclaim your deposit after putting it down on a campervan, caravan or motorhome? 
Keith and Matt explore the ins and outs of this tricky subject, sharing real-life stories, the questions you need to ask of a dealer and industry insights that every motorhome enthusiast needs to know.
We also bring you an exciting news story about a revolutionary hydrogen engine that could shake up the EV market. This innovative five-stroke engine runs on hydrogen fuel, which could potentially allow refuelling at existing petrol stations. Matt weighs in on this development with cautious optimism about its future impact on the EV revolution.
In the Q&A, Matt answers your questions about the demand for left-hand drive motorhomes in the UK, campsites without electric hookups, and clarification on the B+E licence recognition in Europe for towing larger caravans.
🔶 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 May 20, 2024

Matt's back from holiday! This week, we hear about his recent trip to the Outer Hebrides and what you need to know about travelling these islands in a motorhome. 
Matt shares his recent journey, including where he found breathtaking landscapes across Lewis, Harris and Skye. But was he welcome in a motorhome? After many stories of the locals' anger towards tourists, we discuss whether this attitude is the reality.
From navigating diverse terrains to adapting to local customs, Matt provides practical planning tips, including choosing a route, utilising weather apps, and supporting local infrastructure.
In the news, there's a story that motorhomers are being caught out by their insurance when travelling in the EU. Matt and Keith fact-check the article and unpack what you need to know about insurance when travelling abroad.
And in the Q&A, Matt answers your questions on purchasing a motorhome quickly after moving to the UK, complying with towing regulations in France and what address to use for official documents when living in a van.
🔶 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 May 13, 2024

This week, Matt and Keith report on a shocking incident involving a family on the NC 500 route in Scotland. During Storm Kathleen, their hired motorhome was blown down a cliff by a freak gust of wind, sending them rolling down the hill inside the vehicle. 
We're joined by Peter Schmidt, the managing director of Luna Motorhome Hire, who provides firsthand details about the incident and stresses the importance of careful planning and caution when tackling challenging routes like the NC 500. 
Plus, we delve into insurance considerations for motorhome owners, offering valuable advice to ensure you're adequately covered for any unforeseen events on the road.
In the news, an investigation has been launched after a motorhome was seen dumping toilet waste on the NC 500 route. 
Plus, we have another Alan Rogers' Campsite of the Month! Find out about the winner of the sustainable campsite award, nestled in the scenic Dordogne region of France.
And as usual, we wrap up with our Q&A, where we address your questions about health concerns, headlight deflectors for motorhomes travelling in France and security measures to prevent break-ins.
View Alan Rogers Campsite of the Month ➙ mhmp.info/alanrogers
✅ MOTORHOME MATT APPROVEDServices, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Matt ➙ mhmp.info/approved
❓ ASK MATT Have your question answered on an upcoming episode. ➙ mhmp.info/askmatt
📹 WATCH Watch and subscribe on YouTube ➙ mhmp.info/watch
💬 REVIEW Help grow our community by leaving a review ➙ mhmp.info/review
The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists. Get 10% off your first order with the code MOTORHOMEMATT. Ready for the adventure. 

Thursday May 09, 2024

This week, Matt and Keith delve into recent changes at Brit Stops and their transition from a printed book into an app.
Tom Clark, UK General Manager of Brit Stops, shares insights into the functionality and advantages of the app, plus their business growth since joining the American-based business, Harvest Hosts.
That's not the end of the development for Brit Stops. There's an exciting secret change brewing, and in the meantime, the team is focused on expanding the host platform through unique experiences. Tank-driving venues, castles, golf clubs, llama parks, and even skydiving schools are just some of the many types of hosts joining the Brit Stops platform.
We're also excited to announce that Brit Stops is one of our first Motorhome Matt Approved businesses. Motorhome Matt Approved is our brand-new directory of services, products, and educational resources that have been used and approved by Motorhome Matt.
Search our directory to find trustworthy and top-quality businesses and brands at mhmp.info/approved.
In the news, we unpack how travelling long-term could impact your home insurance.
Lastly, in the Q&A is a cautionary tale about checking the fine print of your motorhome insurance before heading off on your holidays— particularly in Europe. Plus, Matt unpacks how to maintain your cab battery when not in use for extended periods.
Get a discount on your Brit Stops membership  ➙ mhmp.info/britstops
✅ MOTORHOME MATT APPROVEDServices, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Matt ➙ mhmp.info/approved
❓ ASK MATT Have your question answered on an upcoming episode. ➙ mhmp.info/askmatt
📹 WATCH Watch and subscribe on YouTube ➙ mhmp.info/watch
💬 REVIEW Help grow our community by leaving a review ➙ mhmp.info/review
The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists. Get 10% off your first order with the code MOTORHOMEMATT. Ready for the adventure. 

Monday Apr 29, 2024

Get ready for the debate: can you tow with an A-frame in mainland Europe? For years, there's been a cloud of uncertainty hanging over this issue, so this week Matt and Keith are here to set the record straight... right?
Tim Booth from the National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service sheds light on the legal and safety concerns surrounding A frames in Europe. From the intricacies of vehicle type approval to the perspectives of law enforcement across the continent, Tim provides valuable insights that highlight the common views on this topic.
Next up, we're joined by Leigh from LNB Towbars to unpack existing legislation and explore the implications of using A-frames abroad. Does the Vienna Convention hold any sway for the British? How does type approval factor into the current legal landscape? And what are you going to do when faced with that officer telling you to unhitch the car you're towing?
We also hear about your experiences of towing in Europe, some successful and stress-free and others less lucky. Who knew that using an A frame could be so complicated?
In the news segment, Keith and Matt tackle the passport confusion plaguing British travellers post-Brexit. With new validity requirements in place, it's essential to stay informed to avoid any hiccups on your holiday adventures.
Scroll down this page to see LNB Towbars' compliance letters and documentation  👉 https://www.lnbtowbars.co.uk/products/towmaster-2-a-frame
🔶 ASK MATT YOUR QUESTIONSHave 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 PODCASTWatch and subscribe on YouTube @MotorhomeMatt👉 mhmp.info/watch
LISTEN🔸SUBSCRIBE🔸REVIEW🔸SHAREHelp 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!

Monday Apr 22, 2024

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!

Monday Apr 15, 2024

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.

Monday Apr 08, 2024

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.

Monday Apr 01, 2024

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.

Monday Mar 25, 2024

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.

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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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