Big equals better? These are the advantages and disadvantages of large motorhomes

Fully equipped, comfortable and above all one thing: enough space. A large motorhome is a dream for many camping fans. For you too? Here's everything you need to know about the pros and cons of a large campervan.

Determine the itinerary completely independently, follow the beautiful weather and still not have to do without comfort. This is possible with a large motorhome. It offers enough space for family or friends and the luxurious furnishings leave nothing to be desired. Large motorhomes can be up to 3.50 meters high and 7 meters long and can easily cost over 20,000 CHF. These fully equipped campers usually contain a real kitchen, permanently installed beds and a bathroom with toilet and often a shower. Would you like to know if a large motorhome is right for you and your loved ones? We show you the most important advantages and disadvantages so that it is easier for you to decide on the right motorhome.

What are the advantages of a large motorhome?

Let's start with the obvious: A large motorhome offers travellers plenty of freedom of movement and sufficient storage space.

Living room feeling on the go

Large motorhomes are not only longer, but also higher than small campers. Travelers can move freely without constantly getting in each other's way. This is especially pleasant for longer stays in the motorhome. If rainy weather throws a spanner in the works for your family holiday, you will benefit from the spacious floor plan of the motorhome. While the children play a game at the table, you can relax and read the newspaper or enjoy a cup of coffee on the couch - living room feeling guaranteed.

Sleep like on clouds

The permanently installed beds are also practical. There is no need for tedious assembly and storage. This makes it possible to spontaneously take a nap or take a power nap on a long journey. Longer journeys are also much more pleasant with a large motorhome than with a small vehicle. So being on the road for several weeks or even months and exploring the world is no problem with a motorhome.

Order in the mobile home

Another plus point is the available storage space for camping equipment and luggage. Large motorhomes are usually equipped with permanently installed storage areas and cupboards so that all luggage can be safely stowed away. Tetris is not in demand here - and some motorhomes even offer more storage space than a small Airbnb or hotel room.

What are the arguments against a large motorhome?

Despite a luxurious interior and high comfort, a large motorhome has certain disadvantages.

Driving skills are required

Driving such a large vehicle takes some getting used to and should not be underestimated. In particular, the altitude causes problems for inexperienced drivers. Furthermore, parking in a parking lot or reversing without a rear window can become a challenge. Large motorhomes are therefore more suitable for good drivers. With driving training before your first camping holiday, you can ensure that you have your motorhome under control and feel safe on the road. For a motorhome that weighs more than 3.5 tons, a category C1 driver's license is also required.

Camping with obstacles

In addition, speed restrictions apply to a motorhome in this weight class. It should also be noted that while smaller campers can be parked in normal parking lots, large motorhomes are often too long or too wide for this. Large motorhomes are also less suitable for nature camping. Since nature campsites are usually a bit smaller than conventional campsites, it can be difficult to find a suitable pitch for the camper. With a large motorhome, you are also dependent on getting fresh water and being able to dispose of the wastewater correctly. These options are limited at some nature campsites. With a large motorhome, you are usually better off at a normal campsite.

Digging deeper into your pocket

Basically, a larger motorhome means higher costs. The purchase or rental prices are generally higher than for a small camper. CHF 20,000 is rather the lower limit here. Of course, there are also second-hand offers for less money, as long as you are willing to do so, e.g. to make compromises in terms of equipment. You should also expect higher maintenance costs, because caring for the vehicle is time-consuming. Maintenance and service work on the base vehicle costs at least as much as for a car. In addition, there is maintenance work that affects the body of the motorhome, such as regular gas testing. You should also consider the higher travel costs, because since the vehicle height increases the resistance, the consumption of the motor vehicle is significantly higher than that of a small motorhome. And you have to expect higher tolls.

Achtung: Maximalgewicht beim Wohnmobil beachten!

Be careful: Even though bigger may seem better, you should definitely keep an eye on the weight of the motorhome. This is because the permitted maximum weight is quickly reached with luggage and fellow passengers. With an overloaded vehicle, you not only incur a hefty fine, but also increase the risk of accidents. In the worst case, the insurance company can refuse to cover the costs in the event of an accident. It should be borne in mind that newer motorhomes are usually somewhat heavier due to the installed technology and the more robust vehicle structure.

However, with good planning, savings can be made in weight. For example, you start the trip with only a half-full water tank or empty the wastewater regularly. In order to be able to start your camping holiday with peace of mind, it is advisable to have the ready-to-travel motorhome weighed with a vehicle scale before departure.

Checklist: Does a large motorhome suit me?

Are you thinking about buying a large motorhome? You should consider the following criteria when making your decision:

• Every person who comes along on the trip needs a suitable place to sleep. Keep in mind that young children in particular have different sleeping needs and a baby cot may be necessary. If your pet is allowed to accompany you on the trip, the four-legged friend should also be given a suitable place to sleep.
• In old age, the demand for comfort generally increases. To ensure that you enjoy your motorhome for a long time, you should consider whether its furnishing is also practical in old age.
• More passengers mean more luggage. Sufficient storage space is therefore indispensable in the motorhome. If you plan to explore the holiday resort by bike, you must also think about enough space for the two-wheelers.
• The larger the motorhome, the more challenging it is to drive and manoeuvre. Therefore, think carefully about which size of vehicle you feel safe with. It is also important that a motorhome weighing 3.5 tonnes or more may only be driven with a category C1 driving licence.
• Are you planning a few relaxing days at the next campsite or an adventurous road trip through Europe? A short holiday is easily doable with a small camper, while a long journey may be more comfortable with a large motorhome.
• Relaxation or action: Do you like to lie in the sun and read an exciting book or are you planning to hit the mountains with your mountain bike? Depending on the type of camping holiday and your (sports) equipment, the demands on your motorhome will change.
• Do you want your motorhome to be your everyday car at the same time? This is impossible with a large motorhome. After all, shopping or driving to work with such a large vehicle is tedious. A small camper is the better option for you in this case.
• If the weather changes during the camping holidays, it is pleasant to have enough space in the motorhome. So you can keep yourself busy indoors until the sun reappears.

Glitz and glamour at the campsite: luxury motorhomes

Would you like a glamorous hot tub on the roof, a flat-screen TV or a garage inside the motorhome? The superlative motorhomes are not for a tight budget, but invite you to marvel and dream. In addition to a robust exterior, they impress with high-quality interiors. Luxury motorhomes are often among the largest among the big ones. Driving with the glampers ("glamorous camper") therefore usually requires a category C1 driving licence. These particularly luxurious motorhomes are then more suitable for longer trips on wide roads, for example to explore foreign countries - or for all travellers who do not want to miss out on 5-star flair when camping.

Large motorhome: Yes or no?

Whether a large motorhome is the right choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. The number and age of the travelers, the duration of the trip and your demand for comfort are decisive criteria for this decision. Take plenty of time to weigh up all the pros and cons before investing in a campervan.

To ensure that the joy of the mobile holiday companion lasts for a long time, the purchase should be thoroughly thought through. Nevertheless, it is good to know that a motorhome can also be sold again. If you are still unsure, there is the possibility to rent a motorhome on MyCamper. This way you can familiarize yourself with the size and handling of the vehicle on a first camping holiday and find out which model you like. Or you can ask the sellers for a trial day or test weekend.