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PODCAST

Motorhome Matt

Matt Sims and Keith Gooden

Avoid costly mistakes, make better buying decisions and get more from life on the road with Motorhome Matt. Hosted by Matt Sims and journalist Keith Gooden, Motorhome Matt is for motorhome, campervan and caravan owners who want straight answers, practical advice and a clearer view of what is happening across the leisure vehicle industry. We cover the things owners really need to know, from buying and selling to ownership costs, technical problems, accessories, travel, regulation, product

leisure automotive

All Episodes

46:26

What is the future of electric motorhomes? Live from...

Motorhome Matt ·

2023/05/08

In this special episode recorded LIVE on stage at Campervan Campout 2023, Matt delves into what the future holds for electric motorhomes with industry experts Paul Kirby, The Electric Van Man from EV Essentials, and Ryan Bowdidge, Leisure Vehicle Manager at Ford Pro Special Vehicles. With the imminent 2035 deadline, where all new vehicles must be zero emission, we ponder whether electric motorhomes are truly the way forward. Will any new leisure vehicles be prepared for 2035, or are other

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44:59

Travelling with kids and the Bailey Sahara Challenge

Motorhome Matt ·

2023/05/01

A big family holiday - it doesn't need to cause stress and panic! Utilising his many years of motorhome holidays with his young kids, Matt unpacks his top tips on travelling with kids. Joined by his third youngest, Reuben, they chat about the unforgettable memories motorhome holiday create. From the "rule of three", what to do when it rains, rules and regulations and the importance of not over-planning, Matt and Keith cover a range of crucial topics that will help make your family holiday a

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37:41

How to prevent motorhome theft

Motorhome Matt ·

2023/04/24

Motorhome and caravan thefts have reportedly reached an all-time high, which comes as no surprise given the increasing number of leisure vehicles on the road. So, how can you minimise your risk of vehicle theft? Based on his extensive experience of owning and managing a fleet of hire motorhomes, Matt provides practical tips for securing your vehicle. Additionally, Matt spoke with Caravan Guard, a specialist insurer, to determine the most effective security measures for protecting your vehicle,

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25:20

Choosing the right leisure battery

Motorhome Matt ·

2023/04/17

Do you ever find yourself walking into a store to buy a leisure battery, only to feel lost and unsure of which one to choose? With so many different types available, it can be challenging to know which is the right fit for your caravan, campervan, or motorhome. Matt teams up with BBL Batteries to shed some light on the most common types of leisure batteries, including wet lead acid, EFB, AGM, and lithium and when they're the right choice for you. Plus, we address some important questions from our

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35:20

Different types of campsites and how to save

Motorhome Matt ·

2023/04/10

Have you ever found yourself scratching your head when it comes to deciphering the acronyms used for campsites and camping? In this episode, Matt and Keith delve into the world of campsites and unpack the meaning behind various acronyms, such as CL and CS, and how to save money on your campsite stays. We interview the team from ACSI to provide insights into their money-saving membership and guide and an owner of a CL campsite who launched a booking platform. Matt also speaks once again to David

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32:23

CAMpRA: What is an aire?

Motorhome Matt ·

2023/04/03

What is an aire and can you use them in the UK? Originating from France, an aire is a designated area where motorhomes and campervans can legally park overnight and they are commonly used on the continent. While aires exist in the UK, they can be few and far between. The Campaign for Real Aires (CAMpRA) is a UK-based organization that aims to increase the number of aires in the country, providing motorhomers and caravanners more options for safe, authorized overnight parking and helping to prevent

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28:58

Who is Alan Rogers anyway?

Motorhome Matt ·

2023/03/27

Since 1968, the Alan Rogers guidebook has been an essential tool for finding the perfect campsite for your travels throughout Europe. But this week we're asking, who is Alan Rogers? At the NEC Caravan, Camping and Motorhome show in February 2023, we spoke with Rob Fearn, editor at Alan Rogers, and asked him this exact question. Rob shared with us some of the histories of this fantastic guidebook, what sets it apart and recent changes in the organisation. Plus, we expose a growing interest in a

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28:38

Lithium batteries: Does your motorhome need one?

Motorhome Matt ·

2023/03/20

This week, Matt and Keith take a deep dive into the new technology of lithium leisure batteries, how they work and whether you actually need one for your motorhome, campervan or caravan. Lithium batteries are becoming more popular in leisure vehicles, with many people deciding to replace their more traditional wet lead acid batteries, but they are a much bigger initial investment. Matt shines a light on the questions you should ask yourself and your installer before committing, from usage, replacing

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48:08

Do you need specialist motorhome insurance?

Motorhome Matt ·

2023/03/13

Why should you consider specialist motorhome, campervan or caravan insurance? Matt speaks with the senior team from specialist insurer, Caravan Guard, to ask the questions that you've sent in about motorhome insurance, including DIY campervan conversions, living in a motorhome and breakdown cover. Listen in to find out why a specialist policy could mean that you are better protected, properly insured and fully covered in the event of a claim. Matt also discusses the new C1 licence review that The

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30:31

Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show 2023 Highlights:...

Motorhome Matt ·

2023/03/06

It's part 2 of our highlights from The Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show 2023. This time we talk about documenting travels with the Roaming Radfords; the family behind Fiamma with their co-director, Charles; shark bites and "wild camping" with Sarah Roberts and ask Excel Marine why there are so many boats at a motorhome and caravan show! Matt shows off his new favourite gadget, a fantastic product that continually tests for damp in your leisure vehicle. An industry revolution, maybe? We also drop

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34:44

Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show 2023 Highlights:...

Motorhome Matt ·

2023/02/28

The Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show 2023 returned once again to the NEC in Birmingham with its huge range of accessories and leisure vehicles on display. Being the second February show after the pandemic, and after considerable growth in the industry, all eyes were on attendance and sales numbers. So, what did exhibitors and visitors think? Matt chats to a few members of the show to gauge their reactions. We also talk a few of our usual topics: toilets, electric vans, mental well-being and the

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32:49

Habitation Checks: What are they and why do you need...

Motorhome Matt ·

2023/02/17

This week we're answering two important questions: what is a habitation check and do you need one? Essential to keep your manufacturer's warranty valid, a habitation check is an inspection of the "living area" in your motorhome, caravan or campervan to ensure everything is working correctly and safely. So do you need one regularly? Can you DIY it? Matt and Keith unpack the crucial benefits of having a habitation check, as well as the myths and mysteries around them. Matt also visits NCC Approved

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19:21

Motorhome Show Guide 2023 and the benefits of attending

Motorhome Matt ·

2023/02/13

This week we are talking shows! With a quick overview of a few of the big events that you can visit in 2023 and the unique benefits of visiting shows. The first NCC show of the year takes place at the NEC in Birmingham this month, followed by a plethora of outdoor shows organised by Warners, famous for publishing Practical Motorhome magazine. At the Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show, we are exhibiting the Motorhome Matt podcast in hall 4 and our team from www.thatleisureshop.com are on three

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33:23

Trespass: What you need to know about motorhome ”wild...

Motorhome Matt ·

2023/02/06

What do you need to know about motorhome wild camping? Well, number one is that it doesn't exist. It is a phrase commonly misused, but a more accurate term is wild parking, off-grid or parking up. True wild camping, in a tent, has been in the news recently as the High Court declared on 13 January 2023 that the public does not have the right to wild camp on Dartmoor. Last year, the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 was passed which made trespass a criminal offence and brought in tougher

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33:36

Travelling with pets in the UK and EU

Motorhome Matt ·

2023/01/30

We never want to leave a member of the family behind on our adventures, even those that have four legs and a tail! But what do you need to know about travelling with a pet in the UK and EU? What costs are involved and what has changed since Brexit? Matt speaks to Vet and TV personality Dr James Greenwood to get expert tips on making your pet relaxed and stress-free. We unpack everything from getting your pet accustomed to life on the road, keeping them safe, the planning you need to do, as well as

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37:42

Industry news from the Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday...

Motorhome Matt ·

2023/01/23

Last week was the Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Show 2023 in Manchester at a brand-new venue! Listen in for our whistle-stop tour of the show, speaking to exhibitors, show organisers and speakers on the way. We have to say, the aisles were busy with incredibly strong visitor numbers. We spoke with the show director, Rob Debenham, to get insight into the planning of the show and what the future holds for it. Matt's highlight was speaking at the Meet the Expert theatre to a packed audience on

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39:54

How to sleep better in a motorhome

Motorhome Matt ·

2023/01/16

Good sleep! You always know exactly how important it is when you don't have it, but it's even more crucial when you're out adventuring and exploring all day. So, how can you ensure you get the best possible night's sleep in a motorhome or campervan? In this episode, Matt runs through his top five considerations for getting better sleep on the road. Matt talks to specialised motorhome mattress makers and bedding creators Duvalay, who even featured successfully on Dragons’ Den! Matt also speaks with

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29:12

Fire safety in your motorhome

Motorhome Matt ·

2023/01/09

What are the best ways to keep your motorhome, caravan or campervan fire safe? This week, Matt and Keith discuss the importance of fire safety and fire prevention in a leisure vehicle and explain the best industry practices. There are a number of essential accessories that you must properly fit prior to travelling and, as well as knowing what to buy, one crucial aspect is knowing the best location for each item to ensure your vehicle's and your safety. Matt also talks with Andrew Robinson about an

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39:55

Wheelchair accessible and adapted motorhomes

Motorhome Matt ·

2023/01/02

What constitutes an adapted motorhome and why are they so hard to find? An adapted motorhome is one that has been altered or built to be accessible for a wheelchair user or someone with limited mobility and unfortunately, they can be expensive, complicated and fraught with red tape. It is both a specialist area and each individual customer likely has specific needs in order to have the greatest mobility. So, if you're looking for an adapted motorhome, where do you start? Who can you go to for more

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20:18

2022 Year in review

Motorhome Matt ·

2022/12/26

So that was 2022 and a whole year of Motorhome Matt! This week, Matt and Keith take a moment to reflect on year one of podcasting together. Take a stroll back over some of the highs... and some of the lows. Matt unpacks the fluctuations in the industry this year, including in his own motorhome hire and leisure shop businesses, and makes some predictions for the year ahead. Will there be a British tourism boom post-recession as there has been in the past? 2023 is set to be a very exciting year

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260 results

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