Your Helpful Guide to choosing your Perfect Motorhome or Caravan

 

Choosing the perfect Motorhome or Caravan can sometimes feel like a mind field, but don't worry we've got you sorted with our helpful & handy Buying Guide!

 

Whether you're a first-time buyer looking to embark on a brand new adventure & create unforgettable memories or upgrading your current model to continue on your exciting tours around the globe we're here to help you find the perfect vehicle for you. 

 

Learn how to compare layouts & berths, understand key features with our helpful buying guide.

 

 

How to Choose the Best Motorhome or Caravan Layout for you

 

Here at Marquis we understand that with the vast array of different layouts to choose from can leave you feeling overwhelmed. We're here to help, continue reading to help narrow your search.  

 

Understanding your needs

 

There is a lot to consider when looking for your perfect Motorhome or Caravan that's why we believe you should take your time to decide on your travel aspirations, duration, hobbies & requirements before diving into the vast array of motorhomes, campervans & caravans around. How about compiling a list of requirements? 

 

Here are some suggestions you might like to consider:

  • The numbers of travellers
  • Budget
  • Preferred travel destinations
  • Short-term getaways or long-term adventures?
  • Solo, couple or family?
  • Sleeping arrangements
  • Kitchen facilities
  • Bathroom layouts
  • Storage capacity

 

This may seem like your list is now getting longer but don't worry you're in good hands as Marquis, the UK's Largest Dealer Network has plenty of brands to choose from, which means plenty of options to help narrow down your search.

Berths:

 

In motorhomes and caravans the word 'berth' simply refers to the number of people the motorhome or caravan will sleep. The number in front of the word berth indicates the maximum number of people the vehicle is designed to sleep comfortably. For example, 2 berth = sleeps 2 people 

 

Key Points to be Aware of:

 

  • Berths vs Seatbelts

The number of berths does not always mean that that's how many seatbelts you get, some motorhomes may sleep 4 but will only have 2 seatbelts meaning that the other 2 passengers cannot travel with you or vice versa. Always check the numbers in front of berths and belts to ensure you are getting the correct number for your requirements. 

 

  • Space and Comfort

A vehicle with more berths generally will have more overall space. You may choose a higher berth vehicle to what you need for the added space and storage or for the convenience of fixed bed to save time making beds up in an evening. 

 

  • Flexibility

Larger berth vehicles often provide you with more choice of layout options such as separate lounge areas or fixed beds. 

 

Read below to find out the different layouts for both motorhomes & caravans

Popular Motorhome & Caravan Layouts

 

End Lounge

 

The end lounge motorhome layout features a spacious lounge area at the rear of the motorhome or caravan, often including big windows to really allow you to soak up the views around you, wherever you may be. The layout allows for more socialising and are well-suited to families who enjoy spending time with each other indoors. The end lounge layout can also be converted into a lovely size rear bed for the evenings. 

 

Pros of an End Lounge:

  • A spacious lounge area giving plenty of room for socialising and relaxing
  • Gives additional sleeping area

 

Cons of an End Lounge:

  • Might not be ideal for families who require separate sleeping arrangements
  • There is less storage in End Lounge layouts compared to fixed bed layouts

 

Pictured: Auto-Sleeper Broadway EL

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fixed Single Beds

 

The single bed layout is one of the most popular fixed-bed designs in both motorhomes and caravans. Typically positioned lengthways at the rear of the vehicle, the two single beds provide separate sleeping spaces, making them ideal for couples. In some models, the beds are raised, allowing for a generous rear garage or storage area underneath. Many single bed layouts also offer the flexibility to create a larger double bed by pulling out a central platform and adding an infill cushion, combining comfort with versatility.

 

Pros of Single Beds:

  • Separate fixed beds offering individual sleeping spaces
  • Often feature a large rear garage or storage underneath
  • Can usually be converted into a large double bed if required

 

Cons of Single Beds:

  • Raised bed height may not suit those with limited mobility
  • Less suitable for larger families needing multiple beds
  • Can feel less open than island bed layouts

 

Pictured: Adria DL Tyne

Island Bed

 

The island bed layout features a fixed double bed positioned centrally or transversally at the rear of the motorhome or caravan, with walkways on both sides, making it easy to get in and out of bed without climbing over one another. This layout is particularly popular with couples who value comfort and convenience, as the bed is always ready to use and doesn’t require setting up each night.

 

Pros of an Island Bed:

  • Fixed bed that is always made up and ready to use
  • Easy access from both sides of the bed
  • Often offers good storage underneath the bed

 

Cons of an Island Bed:

  • Takes up more space, which can reduce lounge or kitchen area
  • Can be less suitable for families needing multiple separate beds
  • Motorhomes with island beds are often longer in length

 

Pictured: Elnagh Baron 579

 

 

 

 

French Bed

 

The French bed motorhome layout features a fixed double bed positioned into one rear corner of the motorhome. Once as popular as island bed layouts, French beds remain a practical solution for buyers who want a fixed bed without needing a longer vehicle. With the bed tucked to one side, this allows space for a rear corner washroom, meaning you can still enjoy both a permanent bed and onboard bathroom facilities in a more compact motorhome.

 

Pros of a French Bed:

  • Fixed bed in a shorter motorhome length
  • Allows for a corner washroom and good use of space
  • Usually provides under-bed storage with external access

 

Cons of a French Bed:

  • One side of the bed is against the wall, requiring climbing over a partner
  • Corner washrooms are often smaller and less luxurious
  • Typically no full-height rear garage

 

Pictured: Auto-Sleepers Kingham 

Transverse Bed:

 

The transverse bed layout features a fixed double bed positioned across the rear of the vehicle, running from side to side. Once one of the most popular layouts, transverse beds have become slightly less common in larger motorhomes due to the need to climb over a partner to get out of bed. However, they remain extremely popular in family-friendly models because they make excellent use of space. By placing the bed neatly across the back, this layout allows for a generous lounge, kitchen and washroom area, while still offering a large rear garage underneath the bed.

 

Pros of a Transverse Bed:

  • Allows for a large rear garage, often with internal access
  • Bed height can sometimes be adjusted to increase storage
  • Often offers one of the longest beds available, ideal for taller people

 

Cons of a Transverse Bed:

  • Requires climbing over a partner to get in and out of bed
  • Less convenient for those who get up during the night
  • Not ideal for couples who prefer easy access from both sides

 

Pictured: McLouis Fusion 360 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

End Bathroom:

 

The end bathroom motorhome layout features a large washroom positioned across the rear of the vehicle, often spacious enough to double as a dressing room. This layout has grown in popularity in recent years, particularly with buyers who prioritise bathroom space and onboard comfort. End bathroom motorhomes are typically two-berth models with no fixed bed, although some coachbuilt versions include a drop-down bed. This design creates a generous lounge and kitchen area, though seating layouts can sometimes be less practical for everyday travel use.

 

Pros of an End Bathroom:

  • Exceptionally large washroom, often usable as a dressing area
  • Spacious and open living area
  • Ideal for couples who value comfort and personal space

 

Cons of an End Bathroom:

  • Usually limited or no rear garage space
  • Less suitable for carrying bulky items
  • Seating layouts may be less practical for frequent daytime use

 

Pictured: Coachman VIP 460

End Kitchen:

 

The end kitchen layout gives most, if not all of the rear of the motorhome or caravan over to the kitchen, creating a generous and practical space for cooking and food storage. By positioning the kitchen well away from the sleeping area, this layout ensures that worktop space and appliances aren’t compromised when beds are made up, making it particularly appealing to keen cooks. In some models, the rear kitchen may also offer easy access to the outdoors, ideal for alfresco dining or summer touring.

 

Pros of an End Kitchen:

  • Cooking space remains usable even when beds are made up
  • Ideal for buyers who enjoy preparing meals on tour
  • Can offer flexible access to outdoor space

 

Cons of an End Kitchen:

  • Corner washrooms are often small and compact
  • Usually limited to two-berth layouts, unless a drop-down bed is included (motorhomes)
  • Limited space for bulky storage items

 

Pictured: Adria Action 361LT

 

 

 

 

 

Bunk Beds:

 

The bunk bed layout features two fixed beds positioned one above the other, usually at the rear or side of the motorhome or caravan. This layout is especially popular with families, as it provides children with their own dedicated sleeping area without the need to convert seating each night. Bunk beds make excellent use of vertical space, allowing the rest of the living area to remain free for relaxing, dining and storage. In many layouts, the bottom bunk can be folded away or removed to create extra storage or a garage-style space when not in use.

 

Pros of Bunk Beds:

  • Fixed beds mean no nightly setup
  • Makes efficient use of space
  • Often located close to the washroom, which is practical for families

 

Cons of Bunk Beds:

  • Bunks are usually shorter and better suited to children
  • Less flexible for couples touring without children
  • Upper bunks may not suit younger children or those with limited mobility

 

Pictured: Benimar Tessoro 413

Other things to think about...

 

Beyond the layout itself, it’s worth thinking about how you plan to use your motorhome or caravan. 

 

  • Storage is a key consideration - if you’re carrying outdoor furniture, bikes or bulky equipment, a layout with a rear garage (such as island beds, single beds or transverse beds) may be essential. If you’re travelling lighter, you may prefer larger wardrobe or internal storage space, which is often found in French bed or end bathroom layouts. 

 

  • The length and style of your trips also matter: weekend breaks and short UK holidays often suit compact coachbuilts, van conversions or smaller caravans, while longer UK tours or European travel are better suited to larger motorhomes or twin-axle caravans, which offer more comfort, storage and living space for extended stays. 

 

  • Finally, if you’re planning to bring pets along, a motorhome is often the more convenient option, as it allows easier access during stops and makes travelling days more comfortable for animals. Low-level beds, open lounge spaces and easy entry points can all make a big difference when touring with four-legged companions.

Ready to start looking?