Advice, industry insights and an impartial view into the world of motorhomes, caravans, campervans and travel, with the motorhome nerd himself, Matt Sims.
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In this episode of the Motorhome Matt podcast, it’s been a year since Matt had his big health scare, and we’re revisiting the journey. From unexpected heart surgery to an ongoing road to recovery, Matt opens up about his physical and mental challenges, and why looking after your health is as important as checking your tyre pressure before a big trip.
We also chat with Andrew Dickens, who shares his own health scare, while Keith describes how a severe leg cramp led to a life-changing diagnosis. It’s an open, honest discussion about health—and the importance of getting checked, especially for those of us who sometimes take better care of our vans than ourselves.
Plus, this week is the Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show 2025 at the NEC Birmingham, where Matt will be hosting expert panels and teaming up with Andrew Dickens for a fun dessert-making session. Don’t forget—you can save on tickets with the code MATT.
Plus in the Q&A, Keith from Worthing asks about tyre puncture sealants and reliable inflators, Lewis from Rotherham shares his insurance problem (and how Ripe stepped up), and Robert from sunny Spain wonders if he’ll be able to drive a 4.25-tonne motorhome on a B licence.
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33:37
Simon Calder on motorhomes, ETIAS delays & travel chaos
In this episode of Motorhome Matt, travel expert Simon Calder joins Matt to share his thoughts on motorhomes, European travel rules, and the latest disruptions in the travel industry. While Simon loves the idea of adventure, he reveals why his own motorhome experience was short-lived. What went wrong? Tune in to find out.
Simon also unpacks the upcoming ETIAS and EES travel regulations, explaining how they will impact motorhome travellers heading to Europe. With rumours of delays and confusion over what’s required, will these rules actually come into effect soon, or is it all just unnecessary panic?
In the news, Matt and Keith discuss a major gas recall, exclusive discounts for the NEC Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show 2025, and a stunning campsite in Portugal that could be your next dream destination.
And in the Q&A, Matt tackles your biggest motorhome questions. Can you legally run a diesel heater from an external fuel tank? How do you fix a jammed Thetford toilet flap? What’s the process for upping a motorhome’s weight limit? He’s got the answers.
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18:15
Are campsites making money from selling electricity?
This week on the Motorhome Matt podcast, Matt and Keith dive into the world of energy management on campsites, busting myths and discussing how things are changing to meet the growing needs of motorhome and caravan enthusiasts.
Matt chats with Harry King from MetPow, a company transforming how campsites manage electricity with smart, pay-as-you-go systems. Harry sets the record straight on the myth that campsites are profiting massively from electricity, and explains how these new systems give campers control over their energy use, encouraging smarter choices and lower costs.
Expect some eye-opening insights into how increased transparency around energy use benefits both campsites and guests, all while helping to protect the planet.
Plus, in the Q&A, Matt answers your questions on the best fridge for hot climates, top anti-theft devices for your motorhome parked at home, and the best sat nav for your European adventures.
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25:55
The Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Show 2025 Highlights
This week on the Motorhome Matt Podcast, Matt and Keith bring you the latest highlights, news, and expert insights from the Caravan, Motorhome, and Holiday Show 2025!
Join Matt as he wanders around the show to get a glimpse into what the industry could have in store for 2025, including exclusive discounts on 2024 motorhomes, if prices are increasing or decreasing, how to make the most of payload solutions with trailers, and the rise of luxury lodges.
Learn about premium pop-top campers and how to get cost-effective solutions for your motorhome’s damaged exterior and interior panels.
In the Q&A, Matt answers your questions about converting heating systems to diesel, using SIM cards for motorhome Wi-Fi abroad, and tackling parking challenges for larger vehicles. It’s a jam-packed episode you won’t want to miss!
A big thank you to all our guests: Hayden Yates from North Wales Resorts, John Blackman from Ted’s Trailers, Jay Wilson and Mark Butterworth from E S Hartley, Mike Powell from Caravan Panels, Rob Debenham and Ben Myatt from Clarion, Tom Heeney from Landseer, and Kevin from Manchester.
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33:38
From American RV to panel van: Why size matters
This week on the Motorhome Matt podcast, Matt and Keith dive into the age-old debate: is bigger always better? Of course, we're talking about motorhomes. From spacious American RVs to luxurious A-class models and nimble panel van conversions, Matt shares his personal journey through nearly 20 motorhomes, reflecting on the trade-offs and lessons learned along the way.
They also address some pressing industry news, including the worrying rise of unsafe gas cylinder refilling practices and the challenges posed by the closure of LPG refill stations.
Plus, in our first Alan Rogers Campsite of the Month in 2025, the spotlight is on Camping Jungfrau in Switzerland—a stunning, year-round destination known for its top-notch facilities and commitment to sustainability.
In the Q&A, Matt tackles listener questions about leisure batteries, including how to handle smart alternators and the potential of sodium-ion batteries replacing lithium. He also offers practical advice on water heater odours after periods of disuse.
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The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists.
10% off your first order with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.
Advice, industry insights and an impartial view into the world of motorhomes, caravans, campervans and travel, with the motorhome nerd himself, Matt Sims.
Sitting by his side asking all the right questions is his partner in crime, journalist Keith Gooden, deciphering the perplexing jargon. Listen in and learn everything you need to know about buying, owning and selling a leisure vehicle.
Discover the industry trends, new developments and future plans for motorhomes and leisure vehicles in the UK and beyond.
Got a question for Matt? Ask Matt! Submit your queries and feature on the podcast at mhmp.info/askmatt.
Brought to you by That Leisure Shop.
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