RV vs Hire: What’s Better for Your UK Road Trip?

When you’re planning a road trip in the UK, the big question isn’t just where to go—it’s whether to buy an RV, a self-contained vehicle designed for living and traveling on the road or to hire one, renting a motorhome for a short-term trip without the long-term commitment. Most people assume owning is cheaper in the long run, but that’s not always true. The truth? For most UK travelers, hiring wins—especially if you only hit the road a few times a year. You avoid depreciation, storage fees, insurance hikes, and the hassle of maintenance. And if you’ve ever tried parking a 7-meter motorhome in a tight Nottinghamshire village, you’ll know why flexibility matters.

Let’s talk about the real trade-offs. Owning an RV, a motorhome or camper van built for living on the road sounds freeing until you realize you’re stuck with it. You pay for winter storage, annual MOTs, and repairs when the fridge breaks mid-trip. Meanwhile, hiring gives you access to newer models, full warranties, and the option to switch sizes depending on your trip—like picking a compact van for city exploring or a large motorhome for a family getaway. You don’t need to own a motorhome hire, a short-term rental service for motorhomes in the UK company to benefit from it. Companies like ours offer everything from basic models to luxury units, all cleaned, serviced, and ready to roll. No upfront cost. No long-term debt. Just keys and a full tank.

And here’s the kicker: most people who buy an RV end up using it less than they thought. Studies show the average UK motorhome owner hits the road just 3–4 times a year. That’s a £30,000+ asset sitting in a driveway for 300+ days. Meanwhile, hiring lets you try before you commit. Want to test a high-top van with a built-in shower? Rent one for a weekend. Need a pet-friendly model for your dog? Pick one with a designated pet zone. Need a compact rig for narrow Scottish roads? No problem. Hiring adapts to your trip, not the other way around.

Don’t get us wrong—owning has its place. If you’re planning full-time van life, or you live near a scenic route and hit the road every other weekend, then ownership might make sense. But for the rest of us? Hiring is smarter, simpler, and way less stressful. You get the freedom of the open road without the weight of ownership. And with UK campsites getting more motorhome-friendly every year, you’re never stuck without a place to park.

Below, you’ll find real guides on what motorhome hire actually costs, how to pick the right model, what to expect at UK campsites, and even how to handle power, toilets, and weather on the road—all from people who’ve done it. No fluff. No sales pitch. Just the facts you need to decide: buy or hire?