The best month to buy a used motorhome

So you’ve decided to purchase a motorhome – great choice! The popularity of motorhome holidays in recent years means there’s loads of options on the market, whether you want to buy a vehicle that’s good to go, or a more budget friendly one formotorhome renovation. But which is the best month to buy a used motorhome?

While both summer and winter months have advantages for potential buyers, there are certain times of the year when purchasing a motorhome is more likely to land you a great deal. Read on for our expert lowdown!

Which is the best month to buy a used motorhome?

The best month to buy a used motorhome is often considered to be any between late September and early spring (around mid-March), during which you’re likely to find the widest range of used motorhomes for sale, and the biggest choice.

Many private sellers want to sell their motorhome after the peak summer season, either to upgrade or avoid winter storage costs. Dealerships and motorhome manufacturers want to clear their stock too. Plus, buying in winter also gives you plenty of time to renovate or decorate the motorhome if you want, as well as plan for the summer ahead!

Benefits of buying in the winter

The winter months, or indeed low season from September onwards, is a great time to buy a motorhome. Here’s why:

1. Motorhome owners are more likely to sell after summer

Motorhome owners who’ve spent the summer travelling may decide to upgrade their motorhome after the season. Spend the summer in the motorhome then pass it on to a new owner around September or October… a good deal all round.

2. Motorhome owners can be keen to sell to avoid winter costs

Colder weather often means less outdoor exploration time in a motorhome and more storage and winterisation costs, so if an owner’s planning to sell anyway, it makes sense to do it before December to February. This means early winter (October and November) can give lots of choice to buyers.

3. Motorhome dealer discounts

If a motorhome dealership hasn’t sold all of their stock over summer, October or November is the perfect time to get everything cleared and ready for the next peak season.

Selling motorhomes before winter kicks in avoids the costs of winterising, as above, and allows space for new vehicles and models to be brought in for spring. This can be a time of big discounts, so keep your eyes peeled!

4. Motorhome shows offer inspiration

While the UK has motorhome and caravan trade shows throughout the year, the “season” for them is traditionally early and late winter. Motorhome shows are brilliant for seeing what models you might like, getting in touch with dealers, and picking up handy tips from other motorhomers.

The UK’s biggest is the Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show, held in Birmingham each year in October and February.

Don’t rule out buying a motorhome in the summer

Buying a motorhome in winter can be more cost effective, but what if you’re itching to get out on the road right away? Picking up a used motorhome in June or July leaves you the rest of the summer free for getting the most out of your new purchase.

Cram stuff into a suitcase to fly somewhere for a week or two – or have a home on wheels where you can take your bikes, kayaks, surfboards and other kit you want? A motorhome holiday also allows you to travel at your own pace and to go pretty much anywhere you want. Stay in the UK or cross the Channel to France, then drive to Spain, Portugal, Germany, the Netherlands – it’s totally up to you!

And when the adventure’s over, rent out your motorhome and make a return on your investment! More on this below.

More tips on when to buy a motorhome

1. Research as much as possible before you buy

Many people looking for a used motorhome already have a good idea of the make, model and type of motorhome they wish to buy. Many others don’t! Browse motorhome sales websites and message boards, go to motorhome shows and talk to other owners to get the widest picture possible.

2. Hire a motorhome for a research holiday

The best way to find out what size and style of motorhome suits you is to take a few different models of motorhome out on the road. Allow at least a few months to research motorhome ownership thoroughly, taking motorhome holidays when you can. Have a look at our UK motorhomes for hire to get some ideas.

3. Be on the lookout all year round

As above, both winter and summer have their own advantages when it comes to buying a used motorhome. Don’t assume that because you’ve decided to buy in winter that you won’t find your perfect van in summer, or vice versa.

4. Don’t rush your decision to buy

A properly run motorhome dealership should give potential buyers plenty of thinking time, rather than rushing them into a sale. Yes, there’s the small risk that someone else will buy the motorhome before you make your final decision, but that’s much better than feeling pressured then regretting your purchase later.

5.Visit dealerships on weekdays

Weekends are the busiest time to find a motorhome, simply because more people are off work. Avoid crowds, give yourself plenty of time to look and ask questions, and improve your chances of negotiating on price by visiting dealerships on weekdays.

6. Check out our expert guide to buying a used vehicle

Our guide tobuying a used campervan has lots of tips to help you find the best deal. Although it’s for campervans, a lot of the info here applies to motorhomes too!

Make back your used motorhome costs

The bottom line: don’t get too hung up on only purchasing during what’s considered to be the best month to buy a used motorhome. It can be a smart move to invest in a motorhome any time of year if you find the right one at the right price.

And unless you’re lucky enough to be a digital nomad or to go on holiday as often as you like, there may be times when you won’t be able to use your motorhome. Thankfully, hiring it out can earn you up to £10,000 a year - a perfect way to start making back some of your costs!

Need some inspiration for your purchase? Check out the best motorhomes to buy in 2022 and the best way to finance a motorhome in the UK! We've also got a guide on how to buy a repossessed motorhome.

Earn extra income with Camplify

Camplify connects owners like you with local and international holidaymakers - all of whom are verified to maximise the safety when you hire out your motorhome. Discover more of our advantages for owners below:

• It's free to list your motorhome.

• If you don’t have all-risk insurance, we can provide you with it when you sign up.

• We give your van a 24/7 RAC breakdown cover.

• You have complete freedom to approve or reject guests interested in renting your motorhome. Your wheels, your rules.

• We provide you with tips and step-by-step guides on how to improve your service and your motorhome to get more and more bookings!

The sooner you set up your listing, the sooner it will start to receive visits and bookings! See how much you could earn if you rent out your motorhome with ourfree income calculator or sign up now to start enjoying the above advantages today.

If you still have questions, want to discuss your income potential with an expert or get more information on how to list your motorhome, call us on ☎ 0330 808 1811 or visit www.camplify.co.uk. We’ll be happy to help you with anything you need!