Motorhome Tips

When a lightning bolt struck Ben Franklin’s kite in 1752, it sent a direct current of energy to the key he’d tied at the end of the kite’s string. Ever since then, we’ve been looking at ways of generating, transmitting, storing, and using that energy — and modern human existence is now totally dependent upon it.

Our motorhomes, caravans and campervans are obvious examples of this dependence. They all need a source of electricity to function.

Even our gas appliances and diesel heaters are reliant on having some form of electrical power to ignite their burners. It’s therefore important to know how much 12 volt (V) energy your motorhome has stored before settling into a long stretch of freedom camping.

Ask any long-haul trucker whether AdBlue has made their work environment more pleasant and they’ll likely say too right, that stuff is magic — or words to that effect.

Cooking outdoors is one of the joys of motorhome life. And the humble barbecue is still a versatile and popular appliance for creating those on-the-road masterpieces.

You’ve got the keys to your new home on wheels, and you can’t wait to hit the road. Alexia Santamaria of Motorhomes, Caravans & Destinations magazine talks to us about the safety essentials every new motorhome owner should know before setting out.

Filled up your motorhome with gas recently? If it wasn’t a shock to the system, it certainly was to your bank balance. World events have driven fuel prices up and they’re unlikely to bring respite anytime soon.

Thinking about fuel efficiency is a smart move — so you can travel more kilometres for your precious dollar. Here we discuss how maintenance, driving techniques, planning trips, reducing weight and your choice of motorhome can all help make your fuel budget go further.

It's easy to cook up a storm in the relatively small confines of a motorhome kitchen. But how easy is it to create a delicious meal in an organised way that feels great and doesn't leave you with a mess to clean up?

Motorhomes, Caravans & Destinations editor Catherine Milford proves that making magnificent meals in a motorhome kitchen with some organisation is possible.

Fridges in RVs — motorhomes, caravans, fifth wheelers and camper trailers — are taken for granted these days. If you’ve been around a while, you’ll remember when an icebox cooler was the only type of refrigeration you could get in a caravan or camper.

Before you sink your hard-earned money into the purchase of a new motorhome, you’ll want to make sure that you have a place to store it that’s both secure and minimises the impacts of the elements on it. A lockable garage or shed is ideal or alternatively, a secure carport on your own property.

Finding joy on the road in your home-away-from-home isn’t an experience all motorhomes can provide. But one brand certainly can — Bürstner.

Working out which motorhome to purchase may involve some trade-offs and compromises. But if the overall experience is right then you’ll be able to love and enjoy it for years to come.

Part of the thrill of owning an RV is being able to explore New Zealand whenever you like – simply pack and go, knowing your transport and accommodation is ready when you are. For the ultimate in freedom, a certified self-contained RV opens up a whole new world of places to stay that the average traveller never gets to experience. So, whether you’re keen to see where the open road takes you, or want to revisit favourite locations – make sure you choose the right RV for freedom camping.

Freedom camping has had a lot of publicity in recent years, some of it negative with regards to those who haven’t followed the rules and have caused issues in some popular tourist areas. However, when done properly, freedom camping is a fantastic way to make the most of your RV and its capabilities while enjoying New Zealand’s beautiful outdoors.

The idea of being away from the sort of services provided at campgrounds and holiday parks can be daunting for some new to life on the road, but freedom camping is hugely popular within New Zealand’s motorhoming community. There are excellent guides and advice available through organisations like the NZMCA. Ask your dealer if they have a members’ club for sharing travel experiences and advice too.

After all, getting away from it all is what your RV is designed to do and it really does add an extra feeling of freedom to your travels.

Plants add a homely touch to any space – they instantly lift spirits and help to clean the air. If you’re a plant-lover there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy their company when you’re in your motorhome too. There’s a huge trend for indoor plants now, with more than ever readily available at garden centres. While you’ll need to leave the larger kentia palms behind, there are several plants that are well suited to the travelling life. Here’s our pick of the best plants to take on the road.