Motorhome Matt

10 Episodes
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By: Matt Sims and Keith Gooden

Advice, industry insights and an impartial view into the world of motorhomes, caravans, campervans and travel, with the motorhome nerd himself, Matt Sims! The Motorhome Matt podcast is a lighthearted look at the can of worms that is buying, owning, using and selling a motorhome. Discover the industry trends, new developments and future plans for motorhomes and leisure vehicles in the UK and sometimes further afield. Got a question for Matt? Get in touch at www.motorhomematt.co.uk/askmatt. Brought to you by That Leisure Shop.

Rising costs and supply chain issues: The challenges behind the motorhome industry
#126
Last Monday at 8:01 PM

This week we're taking an honest look at the challenges faced by the motorhome industry in both recent years and into the future. In a candid conversation with the Co-Director of Fiamma, Charles Pozzi, we discuss the rising cost of products and the supply chain issues that brands are grappling with.

From navigating shipping costs to planning product development, Charles offers valuable insights into the inner workings of the leisure vehicle industry and shares Fiamma's vision for the future, including their commitment to sustainability initiatives.

We also catch up with Wayne Kavanagh from Chelston Motorhomes...


Are driving licences changing? 4th Directive on Driving Licences
#125
03/18/2024

In today's episode, Matt and Keith are diving into the 4th Directive on Driving Licences; what the potential driving licence changes could be and what they would mean for motorhome enthusiasts in the UK and abroad.

We explore updates in driving license regulations, including potential weight limit adjustments, re-tests, cross-border enforcement and the introduction of digital licenses. With Brexit in the mix, there is also the UK's flexibility in adopting new EU directives and their impact on cross-border travel.

David Whitehead, Director of Technical Services at the National Caravan Council, shares his insights on these...


Matt's Recovery: From a cough to heart surgery
#124
03/11/2024

In today's episode, we're veering off our usual motorhome topics to discuss something a little closer to home: Matt's recent major health scare. 

Matt leads you through his journey, from those initial warning signs to the heart surgery that saved the day. But more importantly, we're here to remind you of the importance of listening to your body and not ignoring those nagging concerns.

But here's the good news: Matt's on the road to recovery, and we're thrilled to have him back in the driver's seat. 

In the news, we delve into several pr...


Sustainable travel with Martin Dorey
#123
03/04/2024

In today's episode, Matt talks with environmental activist Martin Dorey to unpack how the motorhome industry is doing in the move to greener travel. 

As a passionate advocate for sustainable camping practices, Martin discussed his upcoming release, The Green Camping Book, aimed at inspiring environmentally conscious camping. Plus, he reveals details on his upcoming journey this year: a bike tour across Europe WITH SURFBOARDS in tow (we knew he was a little crazy but this takes the cake).

From sustainable motorhome features to reducing your carbon footprint on the road, Martin shares practical and down-to-earth t...


New products at the Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show 2024
#122
02/26/2024

What was new at the Caravan, Camping, and Motorhome Show 2024? In this episode, Matt leaves Keith in the studio and heads to Birmingham in search of new products, new brands and innovation hitting the motorhome industry.

Safe to say, we weren’t disappointed. From new-to-the-UK cutting-edge motorhomes by Globe Traveller to the debut of Project Yonder's custom-built Sprinter van with off-grid capabilities, there's no shortage of new brands this year.

Discover how established companies like BritStops and Protec Covers are undergoing significant changes under new ownership, signalling continued investment in the industry.

Plus, ex...


How I got my teenager to enjoy a camping holiday
#121
02/19/2024

Should you pack your kids' bags and send them off camping with their friends? This week, Matt and Keith delve into the world of Petruth Paddocks, a unique campsite near Cheddar that offers young campers both independence and the joy of outdoor experiences.

Jules Sayer, the campsite owner, shares insights into their mission to foster independence and outdoor exploration in children—and explains how a "behaviour bond" helps keep all visitors in check.

Plus, Matt's teenage son, Reuben, joins us to recount his camping holiday at Petruth Paddocks, providing a firsthand perspective from the kids' po...


How is motorhome finance changing and what do you need to know?
#120
02/12/2024

This week, Matt and Keith explore the evolving landscape of motorhome finance. With leisure vehicle prices soaring and the impact of the cost of living crisis affecting many, how have finance companies adapted their offerings to ensure customers can still afford their dream motorhome?

Joined by Steve Blake, Sales Manager at Creative Funding Solutions, we explore the intricacies of securing financing for leisure vehicle purchases. From understanding early settlement options, lender flexibility, and the impact of regulated and non-regulated agreements, Steve offers valuable insights to help you make an informed decision on what is now a massive...


What's happening to Calor Gas?
#119
02/05/2024

With backlash to the 2023 announcement of a discontinuation of their smaller bottles, Calor Gas began 2024 with a huge u-turn: the small bottles will be reintroduced this year. But that's not the only big changes happening at Calor Gas...

This week, Matt and Keith are diving into the recent changes to Calor's line up and their exciting investment into a groundbreaking renewable energy.

We're heading off on a journey into renewable DME (Dimethyl Ether) and its potential impact on refillable gas bottles, motorhomes and cars.

Matt shares insights into Calor's plans for a sustainable...


What is reverse polarity and how do you fix it?
#118
01/29/2024

What is reverse polarity? Why is it crucial to address it? And how do you fix it to ensure you and your motorhome's safety? This week, Matt and Keith dive into your motorhome electrical systems to unpack the often misunderstood reverse polarity. 

Matt breaks down the complexities of alternating current and the potential pitfalls of incorrectly wired campsites, especially prevalent in rural areas or on the continent. Demystifying electrical safety, we provide a simple list of products and best practices that are easily followed whilst on the road to ensure your safety wherever you hook up.


Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Show 2024 Highlights
#117
01/22/2024

This week, Matt leaves Keith to hold down the fort in the studio as they take you up to Manchester for the Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Show. Discover the latest trends, customer insights, and highlights from the event, as Matt investigates predictions for 2024 in the motorhome industry.

From the buzz of the latest motorhome models to the hidden gems on display, we walk through the show to discover what you can expect in the motorhome market this year.

Plus, Matt answers your questions about keeping battery voltage high during colder weather, EU checklists and handbooks...