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.
Episodes
Monday Aug 14, 2023
Monday Aug 14, 2023
Flipping motorhomes: a risk or a reward in waiting? This week, Matt and Keith rewind to the 2020 surge in motorhome prices, fueled by demand and supply disruptions, leading to up to 25% spikes in retail prices but with hugely extended wait times.
Some buyers adopted a smart strategy, purchasing a secondhand motorhome to enjoy while waiting for their new one. Jump to 2023 as their new motorhomes arrive, however now worth far more than their frozen dealer prices. So what have some decided to do? Flip the new one for profit and keep their secondhand one, a move that has drawn mixed reactions from manufacturers and dealers.
Amid ongoing high prices and a potentially slowing market, Matt examines whether this idea of flipping your motorhome could come back to bite you. We speak with Clare, who took the plunge to flip her new motorhome and discovered it might not be as straightforward as she anticipated. Uncover Clare's insights and whether her move paid off in this evolving market.
Plus in the news; a government on the side of motorists? That's not something that happens often. Matt and Keith discuss Rishi Sunak's recent realisation that he could gain support by opposing ULEZ expansions.
Matt also answers your questions about the best types of motorhome fridges, storing your motorhome on a slope and the real difference between Coachbuilt and A-Class motorhomes.
🔶 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!
Monday Aug 07, 2023
Monday Aug 07, 2023
Nobody likes to think of the worst happening, but do you have a plan for if you become ill or injured on your motorhome holiday?
This week, Matt shares a challenging experience from a recent trip when he fell and broke a rib, sparking the realisation of how vulnerable we can be on the road. What if you find yourself in a situation where you can no longer drive and need urgent assistance? Will breakdown services come to your rescue even if your motorhome hasn't technically broken down?
To get clarity on these pressing questions, Matt consulted The AA, RAC, and leading insurer, Caravan Guard to find out.
Matt and Keith also unpack useful tools and invaluable tips for ensuring your safety while travelling in your motorhome. Whether it's advice on first-aid essentials, emergency communication, or essential precautionary measures, putting these things in place can help you feel equipped to handle emergencies and may help to keep you safe in future.
🔶 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!
Monday Jul 31, 2023
Monday Jul 31, 2023
The electrification of cars, vans, and lorries is undoubtedly on the horizon, and it's only natural that motorhomes will follow suit. But what exactly does this journey towards electrification look like? What challenges do we face, and how will a plug-in electric drive chain impact our beloved motorhomes?
These are questions we need to address, and this week I am doing so with Jon Gooch from Life Beyond Bricks. Jon and his wife, Tash, along with their three adorable cats, live full-time in their motorhome.
Jon and I are hosting a special session at The Southwest Motorhomes and Campervan Show in Shepton Mallet. Join us on Saturday the 9th of September at 2:30 pm we explore the realities of electrification and discuss the priorities for us, the motorhome users, in an interactive session where we'll be taking answers from the floor.
Can't make it to the show? Send your question now at www.motorhomematt.co.uk/askmatt
🔶 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!
Monday Jul 24, 2023
Monday Jul 24, 2023
This week Matt and Keith delve into the exciting world of motorhome-based work, where an increasing number of people are not only living but also working on the road.
Joining Matt is the wonderful Professor Alice Roberts, known for her BBC series "Digging for Britain." Alice shares her first-hand experience of working and living on set in a motorhome provided by Motorhome Holiday Company, including the unique benefits of having a temporary home on wheels during production.
Matt unpacks the challenges of remote work in a motorhome, such as internet connectivity and work-life balance, and explores how you can best equip yourself for this way of life. Whether you're a digital nomad or simply curious, this episode offers insights and tips for maximizing the motorhome-based working lifestyle.
🔶 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!
Monday Jul 17, 2023
Monday Jul 17, 2023
Most motorhomers know the importance of using eco-friendly chemicals when emptying into a septic tank, but what about pouring toilet chemical into a main sewer-connected toilet like many of us have at home?
On this episode of the Motorhome Matt Podcast, we delve into the contentious topic of where to empty your toilet cassette waste. In a previous episode, Matt mentioned that it was acceptable to empty the cassette down your home toilet or even a public one, as long as you were cautious and left the toilet clean. However, some disagree, stating that the chemical could upset the main sewer.
So, to settle the matter once and for all, we consulted the authorities responsible for sewer systems to put the question to them. Also joining us this week is Qualkem, a long-standing manufacturer of toilet chemicals, to shed light and debunk many prevailing myths about toilet chemicals, cassette cleaning and grey waste disposal.
🔶 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!
Monday Jul 10, 2023
Monday Jul 10, 2023
At the end of 2021, the government controversially decided that you no longer need to take a test to tow a caravan or trailer. Join Motorhome Matt this week as we explore these towing rule changes and how they've impacted the industry 18 months on.
We speak with Sharon Sparkes, a seasoned instructor from Mendip Towing Training, who shares her insights into the driver training industry and how instructors feel about the law changes.
Understand the details behind removing the B+E restriction on licenses, the importance of proper training and certification, the inherent risks of improper towing and whether these changes have led to increased accidents on the road.
We also revisit the upcoming review of the C1 license entitlement to hear firsthand the reasons behind the resistance to these rule changes. What does Sharon think the government will decide?
🔶 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!
Monday Jul 03, 2023
Monday Jul 03, 2023
What are the challenges faced by many in finding and using electric vehicle charging points? This week, Motorhome Matt delves into the pressing issue that is the EV charging infrastructure in an enlightening conversation with Simon Hastelow, Senior Marketing Manager at Hydra EVC, a leading EV charger manufacturer.
Matt unpacks the implications for campsites and how they can implement and afford the additional power required to support chargers for the incoming increase of electric cars, motorhomes and campervans.
Learn about the current limitations faced by motorhome and caravan drivers when it comes to utilising charger spaces and find out what can be done as a community to ensure the EV charging industry considers our unique needs.
🔶 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!
Monday Jun 26, 2023
Monday Jun 26, 2023
Join us in this episode as Motorhome Matt tackles the pressing question: who bears the cost of transitioning to a net zero carbon world? We address the scepticism surrounding the UK's efforts in light of pollution from countries like China and India. Fact or pub myth?
In part 2 of our interview with Graeme Cooper, Global Vice President of Energy Transition at Jacobs and former Head of Future Markets at National Grid, Graeme shares his firsthand experiences and offers a unique global perspective on these crucial topics.
Additionally, Matt and Keith delve into the vanishing LPG refill points, exploring the reasons behind their disappearance and whether investing in a refillable gas bottle is a wise decision.
🔶 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!
Monday Jun 19, 2023
Monday Jun 19, 2023
As the EV revolution gains momentum and the 2035 deadline approaches, the pressing question remains: How will we achieve net zero emissions for cars and vans?
In the first of this two-part episode, Matt sits down with Graeme Cooper, former Head of Future Markets at National Grid and current Global Vice President of Energy Transition at Jacobs. As a renowned expert in the field, even appearing on BBC's Top Gear as the go-to authority on the electrification of cars, Graeme shares his insights on our journey towards achieving net zero emissions.
From National Grid infrastructure to the advancement of renewable energy, he delves into the critical role of green technologies in shaping our future.
Join us for an engaging and critical discussion on the readiness of the National Grid for electric vehicles, as well as the potential of synthetic and hydrogen fuel as alternative energy sources.
Tune in next week for Part 2, as we discuss what net zero could cost, the development of technologies in countries like China and what motorhomers can do to stay relevant during this time of change.
🔶 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!
Monday Jun 12, 2023
Monday Jun 12, 2023
This week, Matt and Keith delve into the world of motorhome buying scams, equipping you with the essential knowledge to avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes. Join us as we uncover common scams, discuss crucial checkpoints when evaluating a motorhome's condition, and explore the ins and outs of purchasing from a reputable dealer or going private.
Tune in and arm yourself with the tools to make a secure and informed motorhome purchase.
In the news, we also discuss worrying a statement about whether older car parks can withstand the weight of EVs. Stay informed as we provide updates on the UK proposal for "grandfather rights" and shed light on the legality of towing a car on a trailer behind a 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. 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!
Monday Jun 05, 2023
Monday Jun 05, 2023
This week, discover Ford's upcoming plans for motorhomes, both diesel and electric as we sit down with Ford Pro's Leisure Vehicle Manager, Ryan Bowdidge. Usually concealed behind motorhome converters and manufacturers, this episode is a unique and exciting opportunity to hear direct from Ford about their plans for the leisure industry.
Ryan shares exclusive details about the all-new Transit, Transit Custom, electric variations and even research into alternative fuels.
Learn how Ford is revolutionising camper conversions with their bespoke "camper donor" product, tailored to meet the needs of converters. They also touch upon the collaboration between Ford and Volkswagen, hinting at the next-gen VW Transporter.
In the news, local Bristol vanlifers have been asked to move on from The Downs, is this justified or are they making up reasons to move this group on?
🔶 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!
Monday May 29, 2023
Monday May 29, 2023
Does the UK have an issue with breakdown service level disparity?
This week, Matt recounts his awful breakdown service experience, being stranded on a dark 60mph road and waiting anxiously for 15.5 hours for the patrol to arrive. Matt and Keith unpack various encounters with breakdown services in the UK, reflect on the stark difference in response times and discuss whether more could be done to regulate this.
Seeking additional insights, we reached out to the RAC for comment, but they declined to respond. However, the AA and Caravan Guard provided their perspectives.
Matt also gives valuable advice on essential items to carry in your vehicle, including a new LED beacon that serves as a replacement for the mandatory warning triangle in Spain.
What's your experience with breakdown services? Let us know at www.motorhomematt.co.uk/askmatt
Find Matt's breakdown kit essentials here 👇www.thatleisureshop.com/product-tag/breakdown-safety-kit/
📹 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!
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.