When buying a motorhome, it is helpful to first determine your needs and budget. You can then choose the layout that suits you, for example in terms of seating and sleeping berths, storage compartments and bathrooms. Also pay attention to the weight class (up to 3.5 t or more than 3.5 t), the required driving licence, the payload and the driving characteristics. Other important factors are the type of heater, energy supply, winter suitability and safety and assistance systems. Also compare service, warranty and delivery times - and if possible, hire a similar vehicle to try out beforehand.
Needs and budget
- Define the travel profile, season and frequency of use.
- Customise your motorhome - our product configurator Product configurator supports you in this.
- Specify the number of people and fixed or variable sleeping berths.
- Determine the desired comfort level (bathroom size, kitchen, seating area).
- Check parking space/carport: maximum vehicle length/height.
- Plan your budget incl. Accessories and maintenance.
Layout and utilisation
- Select bed type: Single beds, queen-size bed, double bed, fold-down bed.
- Opt for compact bathroom or spacious en-suite bathroom/separate bathroom.
- Check the storage compartment (rear garage, cupboards) and required payload.
- Test suitability for everyday use: Passage, ergonomics, light, windows.
Vehicle classes and weight
- Types: Panel Van (Camper Van), Semi-integrated, Integrated, Van, Alcove.
- Plan a realistic payload, i.e. people, water, gas, accessories and luggage.
- Up to 3.5 tonnes: Driving licence B is sufficient, there are often more favourable regulations and tolls; however, the payload is limited.
- From 3.5 t: there is more payload and comfort; a C1 driving licence may be required and special regulations apply.
Technology and self-sufficiency
- Heating: Gas is proven and quiet. What do you need to know about heaters in motorhomes?
- Energy: The on-board battery, charger booster and solar power ensure a reliable power supply.
- Water: Different tank sizes, a well thought-out frost protection concept and a good level of insulation are important.
- Winter suitability: Heaters, insulation and insulated tanks and pipes help to ensure that everything works well even in the cold.
Driving, safety, assistance
- Choose the systems that suit you best, for example ESP, crosswind and LDW system, cruise control or reversing camera.
- Pay attention to the condition of the tyres, braking system and seat comfort.
- Assess the driving behaviour, for example noise, manoeuvring and visibility.
Test drive and practical test
- Take a test drive with as realistic a payload as possible.
- Try out everyday life: Bed conversion, showers, cooking and handling the storage compartment.
- If necessary, rent a similar model beforehand to avoid making a bad purchase.
Service, warranty, delivery time, resale
- See if there is a dealer and service network in your area.
- Find out about the scope of the warranty, leakage tests and maintenance intervals.
- Please note the delivery times and the various design variants.
- Only use approved accessories and also consider the resale value.
Checklist (to tick off) |
Check |
| Number of people and fixed sleeping berths clarified | ☐ |
| Max. Vehicle length/height matches parking space/carport | ☐ |
| 3.5‑t vs. > 3.5‑t decided; real payload calculated | ☐ |
| Suitable layout (beds, bathroom, storage compartment) selected | ☐ |
| Heater and energy (battery, solar) suitably defined | ☐ |
| Winter suitability/insulation tested | ☐ |
| Safety and assistance packages defined | ☐ |
| Test drive completed (incl. manoeuvring and reversing) | ☐ |
| Accessory weights taken into account (awning, wheel carrier, satellite, air conditioning) | ☐ |
| Service partner nearby; warranty conditions clarified | ☐ |
| Budget including operating costs (insurance, maintenance) confirmed | ☐ |
| Financing confirmed | ☐ |
Further links
- configurator: Configurator - Customise your motorhome | Carado
- Model overview Carado: Model overview
- Dealer search: Dealer search - Find a Carado dealer | Carado
- Test drive: Book an appointment here!
- Payload/weight class guide: Carado weight information - Notes & basics | Carado
- Find accessories: Accessories