Article Surfing Archive

Motorhome touring holidays are becoming more and more popular in England and Europe and many people consider hiring an American type vehicle such as a Winnebago instead of the home grown British or European models produced by companies such as Swift or Elddis.

Before deciding to hire a winnebago for use in England however, it is worthwhile considering the arguments for and against. It should be noted that Winnebago is actually a manufacturer's name even though it is now used as a generic term for American Motorhome and there are many other makers, such as Airstream. While considering the hire of such a vehicle it is wise to consider switching to an English equivalent if the circumstances warrant it. Let us consider the pros and cons of the American motorhome against the British equivalent.

Winnebago motorhomes are left hand drive whilst English vehicles are right hand drive , this is a definite disadvantage if you are intending to stay in the uk , however if you are going to mainland Europe the winnebago is more suitable. Winnebago vehicles are also long vehicles, designed for the u.s. roads which are wider and much straighter than English roads, you would not want to make a three point turn on an English road in a winnebago although many have rearward facing cameras to aid you in this task. Winnebago engines are designed for u.s. gas prices, whether diesel or petrol the fuel consumption will be high and must be factored into your decision.The side door on an american vehicle will open onto the road instead of the pavement or verge when used in England, this could be a major safety issue, especially if you are taking children with you. Although reliable Winnebagos can break down just like any other motor vehicle and spares availabilty can be limited in the U.K. with many parts having to be shipped in from America expertise in repairing these vehicles can also be scarce.

On the other hand winnebago motorhomes are more spacious with many having slide out sides ( for use whilst parked) which create huge living areas, they are normally fully equipped with air conditioning, central heating, showers, hook up for waste, tv, electricity, separate bedrooms, built in generators, aouto-levelling air jacks, lcd televisions, automatic transmission, air suspension, separate dining areas and roof deck seating. In general they are much more luxurious than their British counterparts, they also tend to have more powerful engines.It should however be noted that if the morohome weighs more than 7.5 tonnes you will not be able to drive it ona a normal car drivers licence , you will need a class *C* truck licence.

You therefore have to choose whether the static advantages of a winnebago are more important than the drawbacks of fuel consumption, maneuverability, safety etc in coming to the decision of whether to hire a winnebago or whether to go for an English motorhome. Whichever you choose you are bound to enjoy the freedom of the road, that outdoor camping feelgood factor and the ever changing scenery as you tour the countryside.