The purchase of your first motorhome in Australia is an exciting event, but it can be overwhelming.
There are layouts, lengths, engines, licences, storage, bathrooms, beds, payloads and opinions galore from folks who claim their setup is the only logical one. As always, very helpful.
The great news is that when you know what matters, it is much easier to purchase a motorhome. Not only what will look good in a brochure, but what will make your trips more comfortable, practical and enjoyable once you are on the road.
Australia’s love of touring continues to grow, with Tourism Research Australia reporting almost 938,000 registered caravans and campervans in 2025. This was the highest level ever recorded and a 32% rise from 2019.
Source: Tourism Research Australia
If you’re considering your first motorhome, you’re not the only one.
Start with how you want to travel
Before you consider models, consider what kind of travel you want to do.
Do you have long trips to the coast in mind? Weekend escapes? Months on the road? Are you looking to spend most of your time in caravan parks or do you want to spend time away from powered sites?
This is important because the ideal motorhome for a short trip might not be the ideal motorhome for a long trip.
For instance, a couple that wants to go out on the weekends regularly might be most interested in parking convenience and a compact design and setup. A retired couple who are thinking about spending more time in Australia might value storage, heating, insulation, a bigger fridge, a separate bathroom and a layout that still feels comfortable after a few weeks out.
Not all motorhomes are created equal. It is the one that fits your travel style.
Find out what licence you require
For most motorhomes in Australia, a standard car licence will suffice, but it is always best to check the Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) of the vehicle.
A car licence in Queensland is for a vehicle that has a maximum gross vehicle mass of 4.5 tonnes and a maximum of 12 adults (including the driver).Source: Queensland Government
Transport for NSW also classifies vehicles over 4.5 tonnes GVM as heavy vehicles. Source: Transport for NSW
That means the key thing to check is not just the length of the motorhome. It is the weight rating.
A larger motorhome may require a light rigid or medium rigid licence, depending on its GVM. This is not something to guess. Always confirm the exact licence requirements for the vehicle before you buy.
Think carefully about layout
One of the most important choices you will make when purchasing your first motorhome is the layout.
A motorhome can look beautiful online, but if the bed is awkward, the bathroom is cramped or the lounge does not suit how you relax, those little issues can become very annoying on the road.
Some factors to take into account are:
- Do you want a fixed bed, or are you happy making the bed each night?
- Do you prefer a rear lounge, front lounge or dinette?
- Is the bathroom large enough to use comfortably?
- Can you move around inside when someone else is cooking?
- Is there enough space to sit comfortably on rainy days?
- Can you access the fridge, bathroom and storage easily?
This is where it is useful to get into the shoes of different models. While a floor plan is helpful, it doesn’t always convey the feel of the space.
Don’t underestimate storage
First time buyers tend to pay attention to the bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchens. Fair enough. They are important.
However, longer trips are easier with storage.
Space for clothes, food, hoses, power leads, outdoor chairs, tools, cleaning supplies, bedding, towels and the myriad other items that always seem to come along for the ride.
Good storage should be readily available and located in a convenient place. If you are taking outdoor equipment, external storage is also a must.
Be careful not to mix up storage space with payload. Payload is the weight that can be legally and safely placed on the vehicle when it is fully loaded with passengers, water, fuel, gear and accessories.
Even a motorhome with a lot of cupboards requires sufficient payload to ensure everything is carried correctly.
Consider comfort in Australian conditions
Australia doesn’t hold its breath when it comes to weather.
You might be facing hot summer days, cold nights in the interior, wind, rain and long stretches of highway. When purchasing their first motorhome, people don’t realize how important comfort is.
Insulation, heating, ventilation, soundproofing and build quality come into play here.
A good motorhome should feel comfortable when parked and stable when driving. It should also help to lower road noise and make long journeys less tiring.
For EliteRV, it’s a logical place to discuss Auto-Trail’s more robust touring capabilities, such as insulation, heating, comfort and how the vehicles are built for extended touring, rather than just weekend getaways.
New or used motorhome?
There is no one correct answer here.
If the motorhome is well-maintained, has a clear service history and fits your budget, a used motorhome may be a good choice. However, it is important to check it thoroughly.
Check for water damage, odd wear, electrical problems, tyre age, service history and maintenance of the living area.
When you buy a new motorhome, you have more assurance. You know its history, you get the latest features, and you’re not getting someone else’s hidden problems. You might also get better warranty support and the opportunity to select a layout that works for you from the beginning.
That is a lot of peace of mind for many first-time buyers.
Look beyond the purchase price
The purchase price is only one part of owning a motorhome.
You should also consider:
- registration
- insurance
- servicing
- tyres
- fuel
- storage
- accessories
- roadside assistance
- caravan park fees
- maintenance
None of this should scare you off. It just helps to go in with your eyes open.
A well-chosen motorhome can give you years of travel and freedom, but it is still a vehicle and a home on wheels. It needs proper care.
Take the test drive seriously
The test drive is a great indicator of a motorhome’s performance, even if it looks great when parked.
Pay attention to how confident you feel behind the wheel. Check visibility, mirrors, steering, braking, seating comfort and how easy it feels to manoeuvre.
You do not need to feel like a truck driver. In fact, many modern motorhomes are surprisingly easy to drive. However, you should feel comfortable and in control.
Also think about where you plan to travel. When touring regional Australia, climbing hills, covering long distances and driving in mixed conditions, performance and driver comfort are important.
Buy from people who understand motorhomes
A motorhome is a significant investment, and it is important to know who you are purchasing from.
You want someone who knows the product well, who can explain the differences between the models, and who can help you select the right one for your travel needs, rather than what’s on the lot.
Good advice makes a big difference for first-time buyers.
The right team should be able to walk you through layouts, licence requirements, payload, warranties, servicing, features and practical travel questions without making you feel like you should already know everything.
After all, no one is born knowing what a cassette toilet is.
Take your time, but don’t overcomplicate it
Purchasing your first motorhome is a significant step, but it ought to be enjoyable as well.
Begin with your travel plans. Select a layout that is appropriate for real life. Check the licence and weight requirements. Consider comfort, storage, construction and durability.
Most of all, select a motorhome that makes traveling easier.
EliteRV is a motorhome company that assists Australians in locating top quality Auto-Trail motorhomes for comfort, confidence and serious touring. When purchasing your first motorhome, our staff can assist you in comparing models, understanding your options and selecting the motorhome that best fits your travel style.
Because the goal is not just to buy a motorhome.
It is to feel ready to use it.
