Campervan and motorhome guide for beginners

When it comes to exploring Australia, few experiences match the freedom of the open road in your own motorhome or campervan. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a cross-country adventure, choosing the right RV is essential to an enjoyable trip. This guide is designed for beginners who are just starting their journey into the world of motorhomes and campervans. We’ll walk you through the key differences between the two, highlight the pros and cons of each, provide essential information on licensing requirements in Australia, and show you which brands sell what.

Contents

A guide to telling the difference between motorhomes and campervans for beginners Motorhomes Campervans A guide to the main differences between motorhomes and campervans for beginners Comfort and amenities Size and maneuverability Cost considerations Suitability for different trips A beginners guide to the advantages and disadvantages of motorhomes and campervans Motorhomes Campervans Beginners guide to licensing requirements of motorhomes and campervans in Australia Standard licensing State-specific regulations Additional certifications Motorhome and campervan brand comparison table (a beginners guide to who sells what)Read next:

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a better understanding of which type of vehicle best suits your travel style and needs. However, this beginners guide only covers motorhomes and campervans. If you would like to learn more about other types of RVs, check out our guides below on caravans and camper trailers.

Types of caravans in Australia: a guide for beginners

Camper trailers: a comprehensive guide for beginners

A guide to telling the difference between motorhomes and campervans for beginners

Before diving into the specifics, it’s important to understand what sets motorhomes and campervans apart. While both offer the convenience of travelling with your accommodation, they cater to different types of travellers and trips.

Motorhomes

Motorhomes are larger RVs built on a truck or bus chassis, designed to provide a home-like experience on the road. They typically come with separate living areas, including a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and dining space. Because of their size, motorhomes often include more amenities, such as full-sized beds, larger kitchen appliances, and sometimes even a washer and dryer. These vehicles are ideal for those who plan to spend extended periods on the road and want all the comforts of home with them.

motorhome guide for beginners — *The Delaware, motorhome by Auto-Trail*

Campervans

Campervans, on the other hand, are more compact vehicles, usually built on a van chassis. They offer the essentials for living on the road but in a more confined space. Campervans typically include a sleeping area, a small kitchen, and sometimes a toilet. They are easier to drive and park compared to motorhomes, making them a popular choice for shorter trips or for travellers who want to explore off-the-beaten-path locations where a larger vehicle might not fit.

A guide to the main differences between motorhomes and campervans for beginners

When choosing between a motorhome and a campervan, it’s important to understand the key differences so that you can make the right decision based on your travel needs and lifestyle.

Comfort and amenities

Motorhomes: With more space comes the ability to include a wider range of amenities. Motorhomes often feature separate sleeping areas, full kitchens with larger appliances, spacious bathrooms, and sometimes even luxury items like a washer and dryer. They provide a more comfortable living experience, especially for longer trips or when travelling with family.
Campervans: While campervans offer the essentials, the smaller space means amenities are more compact and less luxurious. You might have a fold-out bed instead of a fixed one, a small kitchenette rather than a full kitchen, and a portable toilet instead of a full bathroom. However, the simplicity can appeal to those who value minimalism and are more focused on the adventure than the amenities.

Size and maneuverability

Motorhomes: Generally, motorhomes are larger, often ranging from 6 to 12 meters in length. This size provides more living space and room for additional amenities but can make driving and parking more challenging, especially in urban areas or narrow roads.
Campervans: Campervans are more compact, typically between 4.5 to 6 meters in length. Their smaller size makes them easier to handle, park, and navigate through city streets or off-road trails. This makes them an excellent choice for those who plan to travel to remote locations or who prefer the flexibility of exploring without worrying about space constraints.

Cost considerations

Motorhomes: The larger size and additional amenities come with a higher price tag. Motorhomes are generally more expensive to purchase and maintain. They also have higher fuel consumption due to their size and weight. Insurance costs can also be higher.
Campervans: Campervans are usually more affordable, both in terms of initial purchase and ongoing maintenance. Their smaller size means better fuel efficiency, which can save money on long trips. Insurance costs are typically lower as well, making campervans a more budget-friendly option.

Suitability for different trips

Motorhomes: Ideal for long-term travel or when you want to bring the comforts of home on the road. Motorhomes are best suited for longer trips, those travelling as a family, or when you plan to stay in one place for a longer period.
Campervans: Best for shorter trips, solo travellers, or couples who prioritise mobility and flexibility. Campervans are perfect for weekend getaways, exploring remote locations, or when you want to move from place to place frequently.