Home on wheels: how to make your dream come true and not end up on the street

What is the name of a mobile home and why is it needed?

In different countries, mobile homes are called differently, so sometimes this can cause some confusion for an untrained user when it comes to such equipment. In the countries of South and North America, mobile homes are called trailers, and in Europe - campers or caravans. In our country, mobile homes are called caravans, and they are gradually winning over their consumers. Abroad, equipment of this type is used both for travel and for permanent residence, and in our country - exclusively for tourism purposes.

Using a mobile home allows its owner to be completely mobile, while still enjoying all the amenities of a regular home.

Video description

Video review of a mobile home, popular in Russia:
When choosing a trailer, you always need to remember one important rule - it must fit well with the passenger car that will transport it. This applies to the power of a passenger car, since it is very easy to overload it, which will lead to serious consequences, expensive repairs, long waits and a ruined vacation.

Experts recommend purchasing heavy trailers for more powerful vehicles that can easily handle it. This is especially true in cases where the road often involves going up or down.

When you want to go on a trip alone, or at most together Source luxusbenz.com

Advantages and disadvantages of trailers - mobile homes

In our country, trailers are not as common as, say, in America or Australia, which is due to certain difficulties in using them. However, due to the presence of a number of advantages inherent in such technology, this type of vehicle is becoming increasingly popular. The advantages that the copyright holder of such technology receives are the following indicators, namely:

• mobility and freedom of movement, accompanied by comfortable living;

The internal layout and equipment of the camper depends on its size and personal preferences of the user.

• reduction of costs during travel associated with paying bills for accommodation services in hotels and motels;
• ease of purchase, sale and re-registration, as well as registration of other actions related to registration with regulatory authorities;
• no utility payments for used energy resources (water, heating, electricity);
• Motorhomes are not subject to property taxes because they belong to the category of vehicles;
• ease of maintenance and operation are the key to successful recreation using equipment of this type.

A trailer-based camper is smaller in size than one built on a full-size car base, however, it is also functional

Among the disadvantages inherent in trailers when used in our country, the following points should be noted:

• significant consumption of liquefied gas for heating and cooking requires its refueling and the availability of information about such places in the regions of movement;
• the small volume of internal space allows you to take on the road only a limited number of things that may be required during the trip;
• the bathroom, if available, is very small in size and not entirely convenient to use;
• as a rule, mobile homes are not equipped or are equipped with a weak noise insulation system, which is inconvenient when used near a highway or in populated areas;
• on the territory of the Russian Federation there is practically no developed network of campsites designed to accommodate motorhomes, so it is impossible to deliver mail or other correspondence to a user vacationing in this way;
• technical equipment requires periodic maintenance and repair, which is associated with certain financial costs.

Modern models of motorhomes can be equipped not only with places to rest, but also even have a “garage” for a passenger car in their design

Comfort and service

Vans can have a variety of fillings, but they have large dimensions and weight - a height of at least 3 m, a length of 6 m, and a width of 2 m. Therefore, the driver first needs to get used to such a vehicle, practice, and only then go on a trip. Sometimes there are difficulties with parking and with space for maneuver. A caravan or trailer house can be winter or summer.

The equipment of a mobile home often depends on its size - the more space inside, the more comfort Source marriage.ru.net

For campers, the equipment may be as follows:

• gas cylinders;
• sofas;
• batteries;
• electronics;
• network 230 V;
• cabinets;
• bake;
• fridge;
• water tanks
• bathroom with shower and so on.

Modern models are equipped with solar panels, water heaters, air heaters, and sometimes generators. By rationally using all resources, you can live autonomously in such a house for several days.

Motorhome with ATV garage Source luxusbenz.com

During your trip, constantly monitor your water supply, replenish it, and drain used water. You also need to clean and refill (with special products) the dry closet. If you regularly use the bathroom, the procedure is carried out once every few days.

Campers are mainly equipped with two gas cylinders (main and spare), which are connected to a stove, air and water heaters, and sometimes a refrigerator. They last for a couple of weeks with moderate use. All indicators can be located on the driver’s dashboard or in the cabin, and the control system can be located nearby. A caravan trailer on wheels may also have similar equipment and indicators, but it all depends on the dimensions and configuration.

Compact travel van Source autoturisme.mitula.ro

Types of mobile homes with photo examples

All mobile homes are divided into several classes:

• class “A” - one- and two-story, in which the interior and cabin are a single whole - integrated;
• class “B” - manufactured on the basis of a minibus, and there is no sleeping place above the driver’s cabin - semi-integrated;
• class “C” - there is a sleeping place above the driver’s cabin - these are alcove houses on wheels;
• class “D” - small-sized models intended for 1-2 travelers, manufactured on the basis of low-profile modifications of cars.

Class "A"

Integrated motorhomes are built on large trucks or buses and are equipped with everything needed for an extended stay.

One of the options for the layout of an integrated type motorhome

The design of mobile homes of this class may include sliding walls, which allows you to increase the internal volume of the premises during parking.

The combination of the driver's cabin and other premises increases the internal volume of the premises

When driving, motorhomes of this class may not stand out in any way from the general range of vehicles and resemble in appearance a simple bus or a large truck.

Option of an integrated motor home based on a truck

Class "B"

Semi-integrated models are the most popular, due to the combination of sizes sufficient to accommodate 4 people, and the presence of the necessary equipment for their existence.

Models of this class have all the necessary premises for a long trip: a bathroom and toilet, sleeping area and recreation areas, as well as a kitchen, storage rooms and technical rooms. In addition, motorhomes of this class are equipped with all the necessary built-in household appliances.

The driver and passenger seats can be easily transformed for use in the interior of the motorhome during parking

For semi-integrated models, to increase their internal volume, an add-on designed for storing things and located above the driver’s cabin can be provided.

The design of a motorhome may include various additional devices that improve recreation with their use - in this case, it is a canopy mounted during parking

Class "C"

Alcove mobile homes are also a fairly popular design due to their functionality during living and maneuverability when moving.

The classic version of an alcove motorhome

This class of vehicles is also called “Campervan”; their design provides for the placement of a single berth above the driver’s cabin.

The sleeping area above the driver's cabin is small in size, but due to this design the useful volume of other rooms increases

In motorhomes of this type, the driver's area is separated from the living area, and the driver's seat and front passenger seat cannot be transformed into an interior space.

Motorhome on wheels based on a Mercedes car

Class "D"

This group of motorhomes has a small internal volume and is technically equipped to a minimum, which is explained by the small overall dimensions of such vehicles.

A motorhome based on the Mercedes Benz Sprinter looks no different from a regular camper van.

“Lowprofile” is the name of motorhomes of this class when sold abroad.

The “D” class camper based on the Ford Transit is characterized by minimalism in all respects

Types of motorhomes

A motorhome can be based on a car (minibus, truck, bus, jeep, liner) or a trailer on wheels. The latter are folding or stationary, some are made like a tent. Folding ones take up less space, are small in size and do not become loose. They do not provide much comfort and the ability to carry a lot of things with you. Car-based options allow you to enjoy various benefits of humanity; you can relax, cook and eat comfortably in them, but they are large in size. Often such campers are equipped with a full kitchen, TV, and bathroom.

For off-road use, it is better to purchase trailers with various types of tents - small in size and weight. If more comfort is required, then a trailer or motorhome on a semi-truck or truck. But in this case, you need to study its capabilities, maneuverability, strength and build quality.

Trailers have everything for a good rest and a long trip. They can even be placed where the construction of any houses is prohibited; it is registered as a residential trailer, maybe with a minimum set. Expensive and large trailers can even be equipped with a garage for a car, a swimming pool, a bedroom and a living room.

The trailed van is attached to any car, and, if necessary, can be easily unhooked Source thequestion.ru

Stationary trailers have rigid walls and are designed for different numbers of people (2-6 people). Quite large, sometimes the walls are insulated, the set of systems can be as good as a motorhome (bathroom, heating, kitchen, refrigerator, necessary furniture).

There are less expensive options in the form of tent trailers that can only be used during the warmer months. They are small in size and additionally have an awning for installation on the ground. The walls and roof can be rigid or tent with different combinations. For off-road use, the most convenient ones are semi-truck trailers with high power and carrying capacity. Installed on a car with an open trunk, part of the house hangs over the cabin.

Motorhome based on a trailer with photos inside and outside

In the classification of such vehicles, this group of motorhomes belongs to the “house-dacha” class on wheels and can be made in the form of a stationary trailer or a tent trailer. A trailer intended for housing can be moved by any vehicle equipped with a special hitch, since in its overall dimensions and weight it is similar to analogues intended for technical purposes.

Its equipment and technical capabilities depend on the size of the trailer.

The tent trailer is not intended for long-term use and can be used for short trips.

One of the options for equipping a tent trailer

How to choose a motorhome - recommendations from our editors

A motorhome is a rather complex vehicle, so choosing one is not as simple as it might seem at first glance. When choosing a motorhome model, our editorial specialists recommend answering a number of questions for yourself, and then making the appropriate decision, and here’s how they are formulated:

1. Its functionality and ability to be used in certain conditions depend on the class of the motorhome, so this is the first question that should be answered initially.
2. The brand of the vehicle chassis guarantees reliable movement. According to this indicator, the most popular brands are Ford and Mercedes, Volkswagen and Fiat.
3. The transport characteristics of the motorhome depend on the engine power and type of drive.
4. The choice of layout and equipment of a mobile home depends on the individual preferences of the user and the number of family members.
5. Different classes of motorhomes require different categories of driving license, so this should also be taken into account at the model selection stage.

The purpose of a motorhome can be different: from living and recreation to a mobile office and public building

Choosing a motorhome

Before purchasing, you should pay attention to the following points:

• Be sure to check the chassis;
• Carefully examine the exterior/interior (check for cracks, patches, etc.);
• Investigate the performance of life-support systems and the general serviceability of equipment;
• Check the presence of thermal insulation;
• Learn about the maneuverability properties of a motorhome;
• Estimate the number of people who can comfortably fit inside;
• Read reviews about the manufacturing company.

Rules for operating a motor home

When operating a motorhome, its use can be divided into two components: transportation and stationary use. When moving a motorhome, like all vehicles, it must comply with the traffic rules adopted in the country where the movement is taking place. When used in parking areas during travel, as well as in storage areas, you must:

• at the place of placement during travel, the motorhome must be securely fixed to the surface of the ground to prevent tipping over, if it is a trailer, or spontaneous movement, if these are other classes of motorhomes;
• control the water supply and replenish it in a timely manner if necessary, and when placed in storage areas, the water should be drained;
• when used in the cold season, it is necessary to monitor the temperature level inside the motorhome to prevent defrosting of utility networks;

Reliable installation at the location is the key to a successful holiday

• within the time limits established by the manufacturer, the dry closet should be cleaned and refilled;
• to prevent disruptions to the operation of functional systems, it is necessary to control the amount of liquefied gas used for cooking and heating, as well as heating water for showers;
• as in any home, cleanliness is the key to the health of those living in it, therefore it is necessary to carry out dry and wet cleaning in the premises;
• For reliable operation of the motorhome during storage, it is necessary to carry out preventive maintenance on the chassis and engine, as well as on other systems present in the vehicle.

A class “D” motorhome is a completely affordable Volkswagen California vehicle.

What amenities are provided and what difficulties do mobile home owners encounter?

When used in our country, the main difficulties of motorhome owners are roads and the lack of special parking areas necessary for accommodation during travel. In addition, there may be difficulties with refilling water, gas and dry closets, especially in regions remote from the center. The number of berths for different models in different classes can vary greatly, but the most common are 2-6 pieces. As a rule, a motorhome has the following engineering support:

• possibility of connecting to an external electrical network with a voltage of 220 Volts;
• internal, on-board vehicle network 12/24 Volt;
• container for storing water used for drinking and technical purposes;
• cylinder(s) with liquefied gas.

The bathroom can be combined with a shower or be made separately

Models of classes “A”, “B” and “C” are equipped with built-in household appliances for the kitchen (refrigerator, microwave oven, hob, etc.), as well as for recreation - TV, radio and other media devices.

Features of self-production

Due to the fact that mobile homes are quite expensive, if you have the desire and free time, you can make such a vehicle yourself. In this case, the main requirement will be to use a factory-made chassis, because otherwise, the finished product will not be able to be used on roads in accordance with the requirements of the traffic police. There are two options in this case:

• use a car trailer;
• convert an existing vehicle - a minibus or a full-size bus.

DIY mobile home from a trailer

When choosing this manufacturing option, the dimensions of the motorhome will depend on the size of the car trailer and its load capacity.

Camper made on your own based on a car trailer

Initially, it is necessary to draw a drawing or sketch of the object being manufactured and think through options for using the available materials. The most convenient option would be a frame structure, which can be insulated by using appropriate materials placed in the internal space of the frame. In addition, work should be carried out on interior and exterior finishing, laying the necessary utilities and installing window and door units. The availability of furniture and household appliances depends on the size of the camper being manufactured, as well as the financial capabilities of the user and his personal preferences. Particular attention should be paid to the location of the water tank, as well as the arrangement of electrical and gas facilities.

Option for arranging a GAZelle car as a motor home

Making a mobile home with your own hands based on a GAZelle car

Having a GAZelle car, it is quite easy to convert it into a motor home corresponding to class “C” or “D”, for this you will need:

• remove existing seats and other structures provided by the factory, with the exception of load-bearing ones that provide body rigidity;
• carry out anti-corrosion treatment of the internal surface of the body, and then finish the internal space in accordance with the user’s creative concept;
• provide for the placement of the necessary engineering equipment and furniture, and install them.

The simplest and most affordable option for re-equipping a GAZelle

Features of motorhomes

There is a large selection of models of such houses, for example, some are a caravan trailer, while others have space for transporting a small car. They all have their own characteristics, advantages and disadvantages. Thus, some houses are designed for comfortable recreation in nature, while others can be used for long trips around the world, which allows you to save a lot on expensive hotels and build your own route that does not depend on stops.

A house based on a car or in the form of a trailer provides a number of advantages:

• savings on hotels, as mentioned above;
• no attachment to date, place or time;
• free route;
• choice of stopping time and speed of movement;
• the ability to take with you all the necessary things, bicycles, pets, and so on.

It is worth noting that there are special models of cars with a house that allow you to move even off-road. The owner of such a car receives complete independence and freedom with maximum comfort.

A large family can travel in such a motorhome Source one2one.co.ke

However, there are also some disadvantages. For example, in our country and the CIS, parking lots where you can replenish supplies are very rare. Additionally, you have to spend money on refueling, and the roads are often bad. When going to Europe, you need to study in advance the parking areas along the highway - there you can always replenish life support systems. Almost all parking lots are off the road and you have to pay for them. But sometimes you can do without them, but you may be fined for it. Owners of buses and minibuses face another problem - narrow roads in cities, and for large motorhomes and trailers it is necessary to open an additional category. A common problem for everyone is where to store the motorhome while it is not in use.

To move around the destination city, you can take a passenger car with you Source reisemobil.ru

See also: Catalog of house projects presented at the Low-Rise Country exhibition.

How much does a motorhome cost - price review

The domestic auto industry does not produce motorhomes on an industrial scale; there are only a few models that are not included in the series, so if necessary, you have to purchase foreign-made models, both new and used. Used motorhomes are cheaper, but they are less functional and not as fully equipped as their modern counterparts. The following table shows the cost of motorhomes when selling them on the domestic market. The price is as of the third quarter of 2018.