Coast’s advice for new motorhome owners

Here at Coast, there’s no such thing as a ‘typical customer’ – everyone that comes to us has different levels of experience and unique needs. While we have many seasoned outdoor enthusiasts on our book, we also welcome many newcomers to the leisure industry each year.

Recently we added a new motorhome insurance offering to our policies, which has already attracted lots of interest. If you’re about to embark on your first summer as a motorhome owner, the Coast team has put together some advice to help prepare you for your first road trip.

Paperwork

It is a legal requirement to tax and insure your motorhome. Make sure your up-to-date tax disc is on display in the window of your vehicle.

A comprehensive insurance policy will protect not only you, but your passengers and other road users in the event of an accident. Coast’s motorhome insurance, for instance, covers not only the vehicle itself but its fixtures, audio/video equipment, awnings, gas bottles and personal belongings stored inside. We also offer windscreen cover, trailer cover, insurance for foreign use and a courtesy car if you suffer an accident covered by the policy.

Safety checks

Before you set off, even if your motorhome was purchased from new, there are a number of safety checks we advise you carry out. Make sure your tyres are inflated to the correct pressure and water, fuel and oil levels are sufficient. Ensure all lights are in full working order and there are no chips or scratches in your windscreen.

If your motorhome is second hand, even if it has a full service history we recommend having it serviced before you take it out on the road. This should include testing electrical points, appliances, gas and water pipes and such like.

Spring clean

A thorough interior and exterior clean not only makes you feel house proud, it also helps to protect your motorhome against damp and general wear and tear.

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When packing for your first trip away, make sure all loose items are stored safely in cupboards and all of your motorhome’s interior doors are firmly shut. If you’re storing goods on the floor of the motorhome, distribute them evenly and fix them in place to avoid changes in weight balance while the vehicle is in motion.

Buckle up

Check all your seatbelts are in working order before embarking on your first journey and that all passengers are buckled up before moving off.

Knowing your measurements

You’ll get used to manoeuvring your motorhome pretty quickly, however it’s worth writing its length, width and height down and taping it to your dashboard. That way when you’re faced with a bridge, barrier or other obstacle posing restrictions you won’t need to worry about whether you’re able to clear it or not! 

To find out more about Coast’s new motorhome insurance, call our UK based sales team on Freephone 0800 614 849.