Motorhomes for hire come in all shapes, sizes and prices. The trick is to find a motorhome to suit your requirements and budget. Smaller vans are easier to handle, but larger vans offer more comfort. If it's your first time, I suggest you go for the largest van that you feel happy to drive, within your budget. There are a few styles of motorhome to choose from.

A hightop is basically a van conversion with a specially made high fixed roof. These come in various lengths, short, medium and long. These sizes refer to the wheelbase, which is the distance between the front and rear axle. Motohomes with a medium wheelbase are popular hire choices as they are easier to handle than the long wheelbase versions, whilst still offering a good degree of comfort. Some companies also offer motorhome hire with folding roofs. The above types of motorhomes are often referred to as camper vans.

Coachbuilt motorhomes (C class) are generally a lot larger than campers and are more like a house on wheels. Most will have all the comforts of home and often a double bed. Many of the designs have a bed area which sits over the top of the drivers cab. These motorhomes can be expensive to run and hire.

Fuel costs are a definite consideration for many when deciding to hire a motorhome. This problem has been taken on board by the rental companies and manufacturers. Many motorhome hire companies now offer vans with conversions to LPG. This should at least half your fuel costs.

Don't overstretch your budget on the motorhome hire cost. Part of the enjoyment of the motorhome is being able to visit and enjoy new places. If you are a couple, a medium wheelbase motorhome should provide you with a good overall comfort levels and ease of use.

One thing I should mention is that insurance cover for motorhome hire can be expensive and you should know up front exactly what you are covered for. Take time to review the policy. Remember to comply with most insurance policies you should carry out the daily maintenance tasks on the motorhome as specified by your rental agent.

You've booked the motorhome hire, now what.

Well it really depends on what type of holiday you are looking for. If you are using the motorhome as a base to visit new places then to get the most out of your hire, it's always a good idea to plan your route in advance. This means that you will know each day where you are going and don't waste any time deciding where to go while on your holiday. Of course for some, there will be no route and hiring a motorhome is all about the open road with a new adventure each day.

Stephen Thomas is a developer and writer for a number of online travel websites, including the UK Away Travel Directory where you can find a comprehensive list of motorhome and camper van hire companies.