Choose Adventure.

If you're starting to look at purchasing a vehicle to hit the open road, you may be wondering whether a campervan or a motorhome is best suited to the kind of holidays you have in mind.

While both offer freedom, flexibility and adventure, they are quite different vehicles designed for different styles of travel. Some people want a vehicle that can double up as an everyday runaround and still fit comfortably on the driveway, while others are looking for extra space, comfort and luxury for extended touring.

The key differences come down to size, layout and onboard comfort.

Campervans are the more compact option of the two, making them easier to drive, park and manoeuvre. If you have limited space at home or like the idea of heading down to the seafront after work on a summer evening, a campervan offers excellent convenience and flexibility. They are particularly well suited to solo travellers and couples, although many models feature pop-top roofs that children love climbing into for the night.

Not all campervans include toilet or shower facilities, so it is important to consider where you plan to stay overnight and whether campsite amenities will be available.

Motorhomes are larger vehicles, although there are now many compact models available. Layouts vary considerably, but most include a dedicated living area, kitchen, bathroom and sleeping space. Designed to provide more of a “home from home” feel, motorhomes are ideal for longer trips and offer increased storage and onboard comfort.

However, being taller, wider and heavier than a typical campervan, it is important to think carefully about where you will park, the types of roads you will travel on and how confident you feel driving a larger vehicle.

At the luxury end of the market are A-class motorhomes. These are larger, 'coach-like' vehicles designed for maximum comfort and long-term touring. Popular with those planning extended European adventures, A-class motorhomes provide generous living space and a premium driving experience. If you are comfortable handling a vehicle of this size, they can offer a level of comfort comparable to a hotel on wheels.

In summary, the best choice comes down to your driving licence, how comfortable you are driving and parking larger vehicles, where you plan to travel and the facilities you feel you simply cannot do without.

Once you have a clear idea of your priorities, visit your nearest motorhome dealer and spend time exploring the different layouts and vehicle types in person. Eventually, one will simply feel right — and that will be the start of many unforgettable adventures to come.