Everything You Need to Know About Hiring a Motorhome

Hiring a motorhome for the first time can feel a little daunting, but we're here to make the process as simple and enjoyable as possible.

Below you'll find answers to some of the questions we're most frequently asked. If there is anything else you'd like to know, please get in touch with us – we'll be happy to help.

Booking & Hiring

How do I book a motorhome?

Booking your Havens Motorhome is simple. Choose your preferred hire dates and complete our online booking process to check availability.

Once your booking has been confirmed, we'll provide all the information you need before collecting your motorhome.

How far in advance should I book?

We recommend booking as early as possible, particularly for school holidays, bank holidays and the summer season, as these dates can be very popular.

However, if you're planning a last-minute adventure, please check the availability using our booking system, or contact us as we may still have availability.

Is there a minimum hire period?

Yes. Minimum hire periods may apply, particularly during peak periods and school holidays. Please check our current booking terms or contact us for details when making your enquiry.

What is included in the hire price?

The hire price includes the use of the motorhome for the agreed hire period, together with the items and services listed in your booking confirmation.

The exact equipment and services included may vary, so please check your booking details before travelling.

Do I need to pay a deposit?

A booking deposit of £200.00 is required to secure your chosen dates. We will clearly explain the deposit amount and payment schedule when you make your booking.

A separate security deposit of £750.00 is also required when you collect the motorhome. This helps protect against damage, loss or other costs arising during the hire period.

When does the hire period start and finish?

Collection and return times will be agreed as part of your booking.

Please make sure you allow sufficient time for the collection handover and return inspection.

Drivers & Eligibility

Who can drive the motorhome?

Drivers must meet our insurance and licence requirements.

To hire our motorhomes, the main driver (and any additional drivers) must:

• Be between 25 and 79 years of age.

• Hold a full, valid and clean UK driving licence.

All drivers must be approved before the hire begins and must provide the required documentation.

For insurance reasons, all drivers must be approved by Havens Motorhomes before driving the vehicle.

Do I need a special driving licence?

No special licence is normally required to drive our motorhome.

In most cases, a standard full UK driving licence is sufficient, provided you meet our insurance and driver eligibility requirements.

What documents will I need to provide?

You may be asked to provide:

• A valid driving licence

• Proof of your current address

• Identification documents

• Consent for a Driving licence check to be completed

• Details of all motoring convictions or accidents

We will confirm exactly what documentation is required before your collection date.

The Motorhome

How many people can the motorhome sleep?

Our motorhome can accommodate up to four people.

For everyone's comfort, please ensure that your group is suitable for the available sleeping and seating arrangements.

How many people can travel in the motorhome?

The number of people travelling must not exceed four, as this is the number of legally fitted and approved travelling seats and seatbelts.

Is the motorhome easy to drive?

If you are comfortable driving a larger vehicle, most people find that they quickly adapt to driving a motorhome.

Before you leave, we'll provide a full handover and explain the vehicle's main controls and features.

We recommend taking your time, particularly when driving on narrow country roads, reversing or parking.

Is the motorhome automatic or manual?

Manual

Does the motorhome have heating?

Yes, the motorhome is designed to provide comfortable accommodation during your trip.

We will explain how the heating system operates during your vehicle handover.

Does the motorhome have a toilet and washing facilities?

Yes, the motorhome has these facilities available.

What happens if something stops working?

If you experience a problem with the motorhome during your trip, please contact us as soon as possible.

Do not attempt to carry out repairs unless you have our permission, except where immediate action is required to prevent further damage or ensure safety.

Insurance & Security

Is insurance included? Is there an insurance excess to pay?

Motorhome insurance is included as part of your hire, subject to the terms and conditions of the policy.

Insurance cover is subject to an excess, which is the reason we require a security deposit, in the event of damage, theft or an insurance claim.

What happens if I have an accident?

If you are involved in an accident:

1. Make sure everyone is safe.

2. Contact the emergency services if necessary.

3. Do not admit liability or accept responsibility at the scene.

4. Exchange details with any other parties involved.

5. Take a video and as may photographs as possible of the scene and the damage to all vehicles involved. Also write down your account of events, while they are fresh in your mind. 

6. Contact Havens Motorhomes as soon as possible.

You must report all accidents, damage and incidents, regardless of how minor they may appear.

What happens if the motorhome is stolen?

Contact the police immediately and obtain a crime reference number.

You must then contact Havens Motorhomes as soon as possible and provide us with all relevant information.

During Your Trip

Can I take the motorhome anywhere in the UK?

You can normally travel throughout mainland UK, subject to the terms of your hire agreement.

Some areas, roads or destinations may not be suitable for a motorhome, and restrictions may apply.

Can I take the motorhome abroad?

Travel outside the UK is currently not permitted, due to insurance restrictions.

Where can I park overnight?

You should only park overnight in locations where it is safe and permitted to do so.

There are many excellent campsites, caravan parks and motorhome stopovers throughout the UK.

Always check local parking restrictions and campsite rules before arriving.

Can I park anywhere overnight?

No. Parking restrictions vary considerably depending on the location.

You are responsible for ensuring that you are legally parked and that overnight stays are permitted.

We recommend planning your overnight stops in advance.

Can I take the motorhome to a festival?

Yes, provided that you have our permission and the motorhome is suitable for the event.

Please let us know your intended destination when booking, as some festivals and events may have specific restrictions or insurance considerations.

Pets & Smoking

Can I bring my Dog?

Yes, up to two well behaved dogs are allowed, additional cleaning charges or conditions may apply.

Can I smoke or vape in the motorhome?

No. Smoking and vaping are not permitted inside the motorhome.

This helps keep the vehicle clean, comfortable and enjoyable for all of our customers.

Additional cleaning charges may be applied if this rule is not followed.

Collection & Return

What happens when I collect the motorhome?

When you arrive to collect your motorhome, we will:

• Check your documentation

• Complete the necessary hire paperwork

• Inspect the motorhome with you

• Explain how the main systems and equipment work

• Answer any questions you may have

Please allow sufficient time for the handover process.

Will I receive instructions on how everything works?

Yes. We will provide a full handover before you leave.

We will explain the important controls and systems and make sure you understand the basics before beginning your journey.

Where do I collect the motorhome?

Our motorhome is collected from our agreed location in Newhaven, East Sussex.

The exact collection details will be confirmed before your hire begins.

Can I leave my car with you while I am away?

Please ask us before your hire if you need to leave a vehicle while you are travelling.

Parking availability cannot always be guaranteed and we do not accept any liability for any loss or damage to your car, if you decide to leave your car with us.

What time do I need to return the motorhome?

Your agreed return time will be confirmed in your hire agreement.

Please ensure you return the motorhome on time so that we can prepare it for the next customer.

What happens if I return the motorhome late?

Late returns may result in additional charges.

If you expect to be delayed, please contact us as soon as possible.

What condition should I return the motorhome in?

We ask all customers to return the motorhome in a clean and tidy condition.

Please:

• Remove all personal belongings

• Dispose of rubbish

• Wash and put away used items where required

• Empty the toilet cassette if applicable

• Return all hired equipment and accessories

Additional cleaning or servicing charges may apply if the motorhome is returned in an unacceptable condition.

Do I need to return the motorhome with a full tank of fuel?

Fuel requirements will be explained in your hire agreement.

Normally, the motorhome should be returned with the same level of fuel as it had when collected.

Breakdowns & Emergencies

What happens if the motorhome breaks down?

In the unlikely event of a breakdown, please contact the appropriate breakdown assistance provider and Havens Motorhomes as soon as possible.

We will provide you with the relevant breakdown information before you begin your journey.

What happens if I get a puncture?

If it is safe to do so, follow the manufacturer's guidance and contact your breakdown provider if assistance is required.

Please also let us know about any tyre damage as soon as possible.

Who pays for parking fines or speeding tickets?

You are responsible for any parking charges, fines, penalties, tolls or other costs incurred during your hire period.

This includes any administrative costs associated with processing or transferring liability for a penalty.

Cancellations & Changes

Can I cancel my booking?

Yes, but cancellation charges may apply depending on how much notice you provide.

Please refer to our Booking Terms and Conditions for full details of our cancellation policy.

Can I change my booking dates?

We will always try to accommodate changes where possible.

However, changes are subject to availability and may result in a change to the hire price.

What happens if Havens Motorhomes has to cancel my booking?

In the unlikely event that we are unable to provide the motorhome you have booked, we will contact you as soon as possible.

Any options available to you will be explained in accordance with our booking terms and conditions.

Before You Travel

Do I need to book campsites in advance?

We strongly recommend booking in advance during busy periods, particularly during school holidays and the summer.

Some campsites can become fully booked well in advance.

Is there anything I should check before setting off?

Before starting your journey, make sure you:

• Have received your vehicle handover

• Understand how the key systems operate

• Know your planned route

• Check the weather forecast

• Have suitable insurance and emergency information

• Secure all loose items before driving

• Ensure all passengers are wearing seatbelts

Still Have Questions?

We want your motorhome adventure to be enjoyable from the moment you book until the moment you return home.

If you have a question that isn't answered above, please get in touch with Havens Motorhomes.

We'll be happy to help you plan your next adventure.

Start Your Adventure Today

Based in Newhaven, East Sussex, Havens Motorhomes is ready to help you explore the beautiful Sussex coast, the UK and beyond.

Get in touch today to check availability and start planning your next motorhome adventure.