The cab: the driving position to be pampered
It is in the cabin that you will spend a good part of your time, moving from stage to stage. It is important that the driver's seat is comfortable to avoid discomfort while driving. In addition to a well-maintained mechanical system, the most important thing is the seat during the trip. Seats with suspension are to be preferred, as well as the comfort of the back, where one often finds oneself straight, for lack of space in the back to adjust it. A large windshield, windshield wipers in good condition, heating and even air conditioning are the minimum equipment. The mirrors must provide good visibility; one should not hesitate to add mirror extensions, like cars towing a caravan. A GPS and a reversing radar are also very useful cabin elements.
The cell
It is the living space. Independent and placed on a utility base or integrated to the carrier, it is made of sandwich panels with wood or aluminum frame. There are also polyester bodies. The waterproofing, wear resistance and strength explain the growing success of polyester. Aesthetically, motorhomes with a polyester cell are taking the lead. The only drawback is the price. Many manufacturers use both processes together. The insulation of the cell is fundamental, because thermal and sound comfort, as well as waterproofing, depend on it. The thickness of the walls is not synonymous with good insulation. The material used also influences performance. A double floor insulates the cabin better in winter.
The layout of the different parts of the cell is thought out according to the number of sleeping places (which can be different from the number of places on the registration card) and the desired places for meals in the living room.
Types of bedding
The bed, or rather its positioning, often decides the whole interior design. It thus holds a dominating place in the cell. There are several types. The bed of the nasturtium models is positioned above the cabin. It is fixed. The permanent bed or French bed is generally located at the rear of the cabin. It is becoming more and more popular, especially in the profile models. If the middle bed is the most cumbersome solution, it is also the most comfortable. The cabin or roof bed folds up to the ceiling. It requires daily handling but offers a comfortable bed. The dinette bed is the result of the transformation of the lounge area and therefore requires daily disassembly and reassembly. Newer models are almost never equipped with them. Light sleepers will avoid it. With a minimum of space, bunk beds are the optimal solution for two children. Finally, the central bed is pure comfort, as it is located at the back of the vehicle and occupies the entire room. It's just like being at home.
The configuration of the living room
It depends on whether you want to save space, conviviality or space. Preferably choose a space where all the occupants of the motorhome can have their meal together, with a simple set up and a stable table. The facing lounge is composed of two side benches with a nice space in the middle when the table is folded. The road-facing lounge, as the name implies, has a road-facing bench seat and the cabin seats swivel to become table chairs. The L-shaped lounge adds a perpendicular bench to the road-facing one; it is the one you will find most often in motorhomes. Finally, the rear lounge, adapted to large motorhome models, is spacious and convivial since it consists of two lounges: a dinette and a rear lounge with two L-shaped benches, or three U-shaped benches, which can generally be transformed into a bed.
Think about the lighting: at least two spotlights. In addition, a dome roof is appreciated because it provides great clarity.
The kitchen and its furniture
Great progress has been made in the design of the kitchen unit, not necessarily in saving space, but in functionality. The gas stove has two, three or four burners depending on the model. The presence of a hood can prevent cooking odors inside the unit. The sink can be separated in one piece with the gas stove. The oven, practical in a kitchen, is greedy in electricity. Finding a place for it in the kitchen is sometimes difficult. Why not opt for a gas oven? Some built-in mini ovens are also very practical.
Do not hesitate to choose large storage units. Kitchen utensils can quickly become bulky. Having a cupboard for the garbage is nicer than a plastic bag hanging outside the furniture. In case of a deep cupboard, it is better to use sliding drawers. Think about ventilation (either bay window, or the kitchen near the side door or an extractor hood).
The "low" furniture is placed directly on the cell. They generally contain the foodstuffs. The "high" furniture is for dishes and kitchen utensils. A drawer is usually provided for cutlery and small utensils (can opener, lighter, corkscrew, peeler, etc.). Drawers and tall cabinets are secured by locking systems to be activated during travel. Nevertheless, this precaution will not spare you from securing plates and glasses in the storage units, as well as food in the refrigerator. This is a basic precaution that will save you a lot of trouble on the way!
The choice of the refrigerator
The refrigerators in today's motorhomes can store a lot of food, so you can go for a while without shopping. The 85-liter refrigerator is a minimum for family use. Some have a capacity of 180 liters, but volumes of 130 liters or 150 liters are more common and already sufficient. An interesting option is to choose the volume of the refrigerator so that you do not need to be refueled for a weekend. Always keep in mind that the larger the refrigerator, the higher the gas and electricity consumption. It is up to you to find the right compromise between autonomy and size. Most refrigerators work on the principle of absorption, i.e. they use alternately gas, 220 V and 12 V as energy source. Many models are combined with a freezer.
The bathroom
It occupies a limited space in a motorhome, even if the standards of comfort have evolved in the right direction. You can choose between a bathroom on the same level as the living area or behind a sliding door. However, the top-of-the-range models offer a beautifully designed bathroom. The shower cabin, made of thermoformed plastic, may or may not be integrated into the bathroom. The sink, also made of thermoformed plastic, must have clever storage space. The objective: to be able to soap up and rinse without banging around. A shower tray equipped with two bungs, each installed on the opposite side, allows for better drainage. Like the kitchen, think about ventilation. The ideal is a translucent skylight on the roof that brings in enough light and avoids the shadows of an opaque bay window. Think of putting a towel dryer away from the shower's splashes.
Storage, more than essential
The limited space requires organization and order. And during trips, objects in their proper place prevent improper loading. The number of storage units, their integration into the living space, and their ease of access are all points to focus on. Clothes racks for clothes, multi-pocket furniture in the bathroom. Storage compartments under the benches and under the bed. As standard, motorhomes offer exterior storage space: the holds. Thus, the rear of a motor home can contain bicycles, even a washing machine! On some models, you can also access the hold by lifting the bed from the inside. Very practical. However, keep in mind that the interior space of the motorhome is reduced by the volume of the hold. Additional storage possibilities exist: bike racks, roof boxes or removable rear boxes.
Camper van lexicon (not often mentioned in the files)
Forced air: Air captured by a turbine and redistributed through the cell.
Motorhome: The official name of the motorhome.
Bay: Any fixed, opening or sliding window in the cell. Can be glass or acrylic.
Stabilization bucket: A kind of jack that stabilizes the motorhome when it is in motion.
Anti-roll bar: Bar placed at the rear axle to increase the stability of the vehicle in the turns.
Console: Electrical control panel that allows you to check the battery charge or clean water level.
Converter: A device that converts the 12V direct current from a battery to 220V.
Insulated screen: Effective in protecting you from cold and heat.
Generator : Independent electricity generator. Very useful to use the motorhome in winter. Bulky and noisy.
Reverser: System that manages the gas supply between two cylinders.
Skylight: Roof ventilation "window". To close well before taking the road.
Solar panels: Additional energy source.
Water pump: Ensures sufficient water flow and pressure in the passenger compartment.
Overhang: Distance between the rear axle and the rear of the vehicle.
VASP: Specialized Self-Propelled Vehicle. Homologation of the motor home.
Front/rear track: Width between the wheels of an axle. Front track and rear track are not systematically identical.
Choosing the right accessories
EAC - Rue Saint-Jean - 31130 Balma - ✆ 05 61 24 34 42 - www.eac-france.com - [email protected]
EAC is perfect for having good ideas and finding accessories for both the interior and exterior of the vehicle. The aim is to improve the layout of the motorhome. Many tips and tricks are provided by the site. The advice is sound and you can even buy a motorhome. It is a qualified team that welcomes you in its store. It can also carry out any kind of repair such as bodywork in its workshop. EAC is a real specialist in accessories.
AL-KO - ✆ 03 85 76 35 00 - www.al-ko.fr - [email protected]
The company Alko celebrates its 89th anniversary in 2020. Alko offers mechanical parts for recreational vehicles: AMC chassis, air suspension, stabilization jacks, hitching devices, load carriers, etc.
BANCAREL HOUSSES - ✆ 05 65 67 22 11 - www.bancarel.com
Bancarel Housse manufactures custom covers for the front seats of the motor home. They will fit perfectly to the seats and benches. In order to feel "at home" and to have a personalized living space, the covers are made in the fabric of your choice. Covers are delivered to your home within 15 days.
CAMPINGAZ® SHOP - ✆ 04 22 04 00 05 - www.campingaz-shop.fr
It's the friend of campers and hikers. Founded in 1949, Campingaz® distributes its products in more than 11,800 stores around the world. It offers a wide range of kitchen accessories, as well as weed killers, air mattresses, heated umbrellas, barbecues, welding products, lanterns, stoves, gas cylinders, coolers, chemical toilets and more. Of course, no one asks you to put all this in your backpack!
FIAMMA - Fiamma SpA - Milano Airport Highway69, V. Europa 21010 Cardano al Campo - ITALY - www.fiamma.it
Fiamma always has good ideas and points of sale all over the world, mainly in Europe, Canada and the United States, Asia, South Africa and Oceania. Fiamma has the best accessories for the recreational vehicle: trunks, roof racks, safety blocks and handles, chemical toilets, pumps and tanks, bike racks. Fiamma sets up a service of assistance and spare parts. In order to help with the assembly of parts, videos are offered on the site as well as instructions for assembly and repair.
JSA - ✆ 04 75 58 71 77 - www.jsa.fr - [email protected]
JSA offers mechanical parts for recreational vehicles: suspensions, anti-roll bars, levelers... This company designs and manufactures special suspensions since 1983 for all vehicles. On the site - very well done - you can consult the list of their products according to the model of your vehicle. For example, you can find front suspension kits for motorhomes, reinforced high-pressure gas front shock absorbers to increase your handling and stability... Do not hesitate to ask for any advice, they are available and ready to listen. New products are regularly added to the catalog.
LEADER LOISIRS - ✆ 04 74 20 35 85 - www.leader-loisirs.com - [email protected]
Leader loisirs offers accessories for motorhomes, essential in order to leave serenely. These accessories are part of the essentials and it is strongly advised not to leave in motorhome without taking them. You can find this list on the website. Moreover, you will be able to obtain Thetford, Dometic and Trumati spare parts. Camping accessories for the design, safety and comfort of your motorhome. You can also buy your camping equipment online on Leader Loisirs at attractive prices. On their site, come to discover regular sales.
NARBONNE ACCESSORIES - Route de Perpignan ZI Plaisance - NARBONNE - ✆ 04 68 41 42 42 - www.narbonneaccessoires.fr
Open Monday from 2pm to 7pm; Tuesday to Saturday from 9am to 12pm and from 2pm to 7pm. Find all their contact information and "current offers" on the website.
Narbonne Accessoires is the leader for the equipment and maintenance of your leisure vehicle. Choice, quality & services are available in 66 stores in France. More than 7 500 references are available (outdoor furniture, multimedia, energy, electricity...) to improve your comfort on board. It is for you the assurance of an assistance and a national guarantee Narbonne Accessoires, of a real know-how on the installation of accessories, the bodywork and the installation of your vehicle of leisure via their workshops. The offer is diversified because Narbonne Accessoires also offers vehicle rental, repair and distribution.
MASTERS ACCESSORIES - www.masters-france.com - [email protected]
Master is the first national network of motorhome distributors. The Masters network assists in the purchase, financing, repair and rental of recreational vehicles. The accessories on sale are grouped into different categories: heating and air conditioning, refrigeration, cooking and dishwashers, tableware and small household appliances, water and toilets, interior fittings and storage, energy, high tech, security, maintenance and DIY, outdoor and outdoor equipment.
OMNISTOR-THULE - www.thule.com
Omnistor-Thule is the awning specialist and offers a wide range of accessories to improve comfort and well-being in the motor home. Omnistor-Thule has a wide selection of awnings, awning tents and awning accessories. In addition to awnings, which remain the company's specialty, Omnistor-Thule sells storage accessories, bike racks for recreational vehicles and security products, meaning locks.
SURTEC - ✆ 04 58 00 54 85 - www.surtec.fr - [email protected]
The company specializes in renewable energy. The company offers solar kits for motor homes. This company designs and realizes installations of photovoltaic cells and panels that produce electricity from solar energy. The big fashion at the moment: the solar panel. And why not you?
THETFORD - ✆ 01 30 37 58 23 - www.thetford-europe.com
Thetford offers all the accessories and equipment for motor homes. Thus, you will find different products going from household appliances to accessories. For all and more: kitchen, toilets ... The site also provides services such as brochures and manuals, repair instructions, parts lists, warranties, service procedures and legislation references. A real specialist in the field and one that will provide you with many tips.
TOP ACCESSORIES - www.top-accessoires.com
Top Accessoires has more than 50 branches all over France and many coach operators have adopted it for a long time. It is the first French network of accessories and leisure. You will find everything you need for a good trip in your motorhome: from the awning to the motorhome, including covers, locks, air conditioning kit or electrical kit.
TRUMAALLEMAGNE - www.truma.com/fr - [email protected]
Truma is well known for its heaters and has an experience acquired with its 60 years of existence. The company sells accessories for the heating system, for the air conditioning system, the gas supply, the electricity supply and the water comfort. For your heating and for all heating solutions.
SUD LOIRE CARAVANES - ZI des Landes 2 AVRILLÉ - ✆ 02 41 42 72 40 - www.sud-loire-caravanes.com - [email protected]
Open Monday from 2pm to 7pm; Tuesday to Saturday from 9am to 12pm and from 2pm to 7pm. Workshop closed on Saturday afternoon. With its different agencies, you can rent or buy. Sud Loire Caravanes has eight agencies, the closest of which are Beaulieu-sur-Layon and Angers-Avrillé. In this last agency, no caravans but many motor homes to buy or rent. A price comparison is proposed on the website as well as a selection of accessories. You can buy Bavaria, Benimar, Itineo or Morelo: the choice is vast. Need after-sales service? No problem, the technical service will quickly make the necessary repairs! If you have a specific need for a caravan, you will find what you need in Le Mans, Tours or Nantes.
NOUVEL'AIR - 9 rue de l'Ancien-Pont - MARTIN-EGLISE - ✆ 02 35 83 86 83 - [email protected]
Nouvel'Air is the specialist and pioneer in exterior insulation for motor homes. Among the products presented, you can buy windshield shutters, aluminum bay shutters, projectable bay shutters, dome shutters, skylight shutters, roof insulation, floor insulation, trunk insulation, and winter sports mud flaps.