Motorhome Matt

Matt Sims and Keith Gooden
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  • MONTHLY

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.

  1. Can You Power a Motorhome with a Portable Power Bank?

    1 HR AGO

    Can You Power a Motorhome with a Portable Power Bank?

    🎟️ WIN TRACKSIDE VANLOVE TICKETS mhmp.info/win Can you safely power your motorhome with a portable power bank, or could you be creating a serious electrical risk without realising it? In this episode of the Motorhome Matt podcast, Matt and Keith dig into one of the most talked-about motorhome power questions at the moment: can you plug a portable power station into your motorhome hook-up socket? It sounds simple enough. You’ve got a power bank, your motorhome has a hook-up point, what could possibly go wrong? Quite a lot, as it turns out, especially when earth bonding, RCDs, inverters and British Standards get involved. Joined by Mark Street from BlueFix and electrical expert Philip “Geeky Phil” Tomlinson, we unpack the risks of using portable power packs with motorhomes, why some common online advice could be misleading, and what owners need to understand before connecting anything to their van. We also cover important changes to EU pet passport rules for GB residents, and our product of the week is the Nomad’s Kitchen, a compact cooking kit for motorhomes, caravans and campers. And in the Q&A, Matt answers your questions on: Whether anyone offers a one-stop-shop European breakdown, medical, travel and pet insurance cover Using an earth rod with a generator or portable power supply Whether plugging an RCD into a power station makes it safe to connect to a motorhome If you use a portable power station, plug in at home, tour with pets, or simply want to avoid learning electrics the expensive way, this is an episode worth listening to before you connect the next cable. 🏕️ VISIT RIVERSIDE CARAVAN PARK mhmp.info/riverside 🗣️ CHAT WITH MOTORHOME MATT mhmp.info/chat ✅ MOTORHOME MATT APPROVED mhmp.info/approved 🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCE mhmp.info/ripeinsurance 📲 NORD VPN - GET 4 MONTHS FREE https://nordvpn.com/motorhomematt ❓ ASK MATT mhmp.info/askmatt 🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTS mhmp.info/events 📹 WATCH ON YOUTUBE mhmp.info/watch 💬 LEAVE A REVIEW mhmp.info/review 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.

    44 min
  2. Are Your Motorhome Electrics Safe Without an Earth?

    27 APR

    Are Your Motorhome Electrics Safe Without an Earth?

    Could your motorhome electrics be putting you at risk without you realising it? This week, Motorhome Matt and Keith get into one of the most misunderstood topics in motorhome and campervan ownership, earthing. If your van is sitting on four rubber tyres, where does the electricity go when something goes wrong? And what really happens when you plug into a campsite hook-up, run an inverter, or power the van from a portable power station? Matt is joined by Mark Street from BlueFix to explain the difference between mains hook-up, 12V systems, inverters and portable power stations. They cover what “earth” actually means in a motorhome, why your van behaves differently on campsite hook-up compared with off-grid power, and what can go wrong when a portable power station is used to feed the van’s sockets. It’s a useful listen for anyone running kettles, chargers, coffee machines or hair straighteners in a motorhome or campervan. Plus, Campervan Campout is on from 1 to 3 May 2026 at the South of England Showground in Ardingly, with camping, live music, talks, advice sessions and Creator’s Day. And in the Q&A, Matt answers your questions on: What might be causing a cat pee smell in a motorhome cab Why fuel prices can jump so quickly, and what it means for European touring Whether you still need to carry breathalysers when driving in France If you use hook-up, an inverter, a portable power pack or anything with a three-pin plug in your motorhome, this is one to listen to before your next trip. We’ll help you understand the risks, the myths and when it’s time to get someone qualified involved. 🗣️ CHAT WITH MOTORHOME MATT https://www.facebook.com/groups/motorhomematt ✅ MOTORHOME MATT APPROVED mhmp.info/approved 🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCE mhmp.info/ripeinsurance ❓ ASK MATT mhmp.info/askmatt 🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTS mhmp.info/events 📹 WATCH ON YOUTUBE mhmp.info/watch 💬 LEAVE A REVIEW mhmp.info/review 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.

    34 min
  3. Is This the Best Motorhome Security Alarm for Stopping Thieves?

    20 APR

    Is This the Best Motorhome Security Alarm for Stopping Thieves?

    Is VanGuardian the motorhome security product that owners have been waiting for? In this episode, Motorhome Matt and Keith take a close look at a new motorhome alarm system designed to stop thieves before they get into your van.  Matt is joined by Mike Horsford from VanGuardian to find out how it works, why it is getting attention, and whether it could be the answer for owners worried about motorhome security, campervan security, break-ins and overnight peace of mind. Campervan Campout 2026 is nearly here, and Matt is also joined by Michael from Warners and Simon from Spartan Campers to look ahead to a bank holiday event packed with live entertainment, family activities, self-build inspiration and a strong campervan community feel. And in the Q&A, Matt answers your questions on: Getting finance for full-time motorhome living Air suspension versus hydraulic levelling systems A persistent battery beep on a Ford Transit after replacing the batteries From motorhome theft prevention and campervan events to levelling systems, finance, and real-world owner problems, there’s plenty to learn in this episode. 🛡️ 10% off VanGuardian with code MOTORHOMEMATT mhmp.info/vanguardian 🗣️ CHAT WITH MOTORHOME MATT https://www.facebook.com/groups/motorhomematt ✅ MOTORHOME MATT APPROVED mhmp.info/approved 🛒 PRODUCT OF THE WEEK www.thatleisureshop.com/pages/brand/brunner 🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCE mhmp.info/ripeinsurance ❓ ASK MATT mhmp.info/askmatt 🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTS mhmp.info/events 📹 WATCH ON YOUTUBE mhmp.info/watch 💬 LEAVE A REVIEW mhmp.info/review 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.

    39 min
  4. Top 10 Motorhome Exterior Upgrades Worth Buying

    13 APR

    Top 10 Motorhome Exterior Upgrades Worth Buying

    What are the best upgrades for the outside of your motorhome, and which ones will actually make life on the road easier? In this episode, Motorhome Matt and Keith get stuck into the top 10 best external upgrades for your motorhome, from awnings and bike racks to solar panels, security and levelling systems. If you're wondering what adds real usability, what improves comfort on the road, and what could quietly eat into your payload and budget, this episode is for you. Matt shares the upgrades he rates most highly, the ones he’d think twice about, and the common mistakes owners make when they start bolting extras onto their van. Is paint protection worth it? Do you need a reversing camera? Are tyre pressure monitors a smart safety buy or just another gadget to clutter the dashboard?  We also talk about the new National Motorhome, Campervan & Camping Exhibition at Stoneleigh, where Matt is heading for live podcast recordings, expert talks, one-to-one advice clinics and a packed indoor event full of motorhomes, campervans, accessories and special guests. And in the Q&A, Matt answers your questions on: Repairing a recessed awning gearbox on an Auto-Trail Arapaho Whether Pathway 4G gets a usable signal at Greengates campsite Choosing an aftermarket tyre pressure monitoring system for a motorhome This episode is full of practical advice, honest opinion and plenty to think about before your next upgrade. Tune in and let’s make your motorhome work harder, without spending money on stuff you’ll regret later. 🗣️ CHAT WITH MOTORHOME MATT Join our brand new private Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/motorhomematt ✅ MOTORHOME MATT APPROVED Services, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Matt mhmp.info/approved 🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCE mhmp.info/ripeinsurance 🔺 SHOP FIAMMA mhmp.info/fiamma ❓ ASK MATT mhmp.info/askmatt 🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTS mhmp.info/events 📹 WATCH ON YOUTUBE mhmp.info/watch 💬 LEAVE A REVIEW mhmp.info/review 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.

    39 min
  5. How to Organise Your Motorhome Garage

    6 APR

    How to Organise Your Motorhome Garage

    Organising your motorhome garage. One minute your kit is neatly packed, the next your levelling ramps have vanished, the chairs are trapped, and you're lying three feet deep under bags of stuff, wondering where it all went wrong. This week, Motorhome Matt and Keith Gooden look at an innovative motorhome storage solution that could change the way you organise your van. Is this the answer to cluttered lockers, wasted space and garage chaos? Matt is joined by Mark Vincent from Starflex UK to explore a modular storage system that is already catching the eye of motorhome owners across Europe. From smarter bike storage to practical shelving and easier access to everyday kit, this is one of those products that makes immediate sense the moment you see it. Plus, we take a look at the new indoor Warner show at Stoneleigh, running from 17 to 19 April, with live podcast recordings, expert advice sessions and a ticket discount code for listeners. There is also a 20% off Fenwick’s promotion at That Leisure Shop, ideal for anyone getting their motorhome cleaned up and ready for the season ahead. And in the Q&A, Matt answers your questions on: Longer European motorhome insurance cover Choosing the right first motorhome when you are new to the lifestyle Restarting a motorhome after winter storage With fresh industry insight and real-world experience, we cover plenty in this episode. Tune in and see if this could make your next trip a lot more organised. ⭐ STARFLEX https://www.starflex.uk 🗣️ CHAT WITH MOTORHOME MATT Join our brand new private Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/motorhomematt ✅ MOTORHOME MATT APPROVED Services, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Matt mhmp.info/approved 🛒 20% OFF FENWICKS www.thatleisureshop.com/pages/brand/fenwicks ❄️ WINTER GUIDE www.thatleisureshop.com/winter 🌼 SPRING GUIDE www.thatleisureshop.com/spring 🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCE mhmp.info/ripeinsurance 🔺 SHOP FIAMMA mhmp.info/fiamma ❓ ASK MATT mhmp.info/askmatt 🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTS mhmp.info/events 📹 WATCH ON YOUTUBE mhmp.info/watch 💬 LEAVE A REVIEW mhmp.info/review 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.

    23 min
  6. Is the Motorhome Industry Really in Trouble Right Now?

    30 MAR

    Is the Motorhome Industry Really in Trouble Right Now?

    Is the motorhome industry in its worst state ever, or are we worrying over nothing? Prices have surged, quality is under scrutiny, and new buyers are arriving with very different expectations. After years of disruption, from Brexit to Covid to supply chain chaos, has the market finally steadied, or are there bigger changes brewing under the surface? This week, industry veteran Peter Vaughan joins Motorhome Matt and Keith Gooden to separate perception from reality, drawing on over four decades of experience to answer the question many are quietly asking. Along the way, we explore how the audience is changing, why van life has gone from fringe to mainstream, and whether manufacturers are really keeping up. We also take an honest look at used values, dealer challenges, and what the future might hold as new players eye up the market. Plus, a look at the brand new Warners National Motorhome, Campervan and Camping Exhibition at Stoneleigh this April, a day-visitor show packed with hundreds of vehicles, expert advice sessions, and hands-on tech demonstrations designed to help you make better buying decisions. And don’t miss this week’s Fun Fiamma Fact, where we reveal just how many of their iconic F45 awnings have been sold worldwide. And in the Q&A, Matt answers your questions on: Do external windscreen covers actually stop condensation? Can the Pathway 4G really get a signal where your phone can’t? Which gas system makes the most sense for extended European travel? 🗣️ CHAT WITH MOTORHOME MATT Join our brand new private Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/motorhomematt ✅ MOTORHOME MATT APPROVED Services, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Matt mhmp.info/approved 🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCE mhmp.info/ripeinsurance 📲 NORD VPN - GET 4 MONTHS FREE https://nordvpn.com/motorhomematt 🔺 SHOP FIAMMA mhmp.info/fiamma ❓ ASK MATT mhmp.info/askmatt 🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTS mhmp.info/events 📹 WATCH ON YOUTUBE mhmp.info/watch 💬 LEAVE A REVIEW mhmp.info/review 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.

    33 min
  7. How to Choose the Right Motorhome Levelling System

    23 MAR

    How to Choose the Right Motorhome Levelling System

    Get the levelling comparison chart here → https://mhmp.info/levelling Motorhome levelling systems: are they worth it, what do they really cost, and how much difference do they make day to day? If you’ve ever parked slightly off level and spent the evening sliding towards the kitchen, you’ll know why this upgrade gets people talking. In this episode, Motorhome Matt and Keith take a practical look at levelling systems, how they work, what they weigh, and what you need to consider before fitting one to your motorhome or campervan. From payload limits and installation challenges to useful features like weighing functions and added security, we unpack it all with the team at Bristol Caravans and VB Air, helping you make a sensible decision, not just an expensive one. Plus, join us at That Leisure Shop for an open day on 28 March, with motorhomes for hire, used models for sale, and special offers at the Hewish site, just off junction 21 of the M5. And in the Q&A, Matt answers your questions on: driving a 4.4-tonne motorhome in the UK on a New Zealand licence what might be causing a cat pee smell in a motorhome uprating a campervan or motorhome by 300kg If you’re considering levelling your motorhome, or just want to understand what you’re getting for your money, this episode will help you get it straight before you commit. 🗣️CHAT WITH MOTORHOME MATT Join our brand new private Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/motorhomematt ✅ MOTORHOME MATT APPROVED Services, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Matt mhmp.info/approved 🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCE mhmp.info/ripeinsurance 🔺 SHOP FIAMMA mhmp.info/fiamma 📲 NORD VPN - GET 4 MONTHS FREE https://nordvpn.com/motorhomematt ❓ ASK MATT mhmp.info/askmatt 🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTS mhmp.info/events 📹 WATCH ON YOUTUBE mhmp.info/watch 💬 LEAVE A REVIEW mhmp.info/review 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.

    55 min
  8. Should You Use an Accredited Workshop for Motorhome Servicing?

    16 MAR

    Should You Use an Accredited Workshop for Motorhome Servicing?

    When it comes to motorhome servicing, choosing the right workshop can make the difference between protecting your warranty and creating a costly problem.  In this episode, Matt and Keith explore whether you should always use an accredited workshop, such as one in the NCC Approved Workshop Scheme (AWS) or a member of the Motorhome & Caravan Engineers Association (MCEA), and what that actually means for motorhome owners. Matt sits down with Darren Brown from Reliance to explain how approved workshops are inspected, why more owners are discovering faults on nearly new motorhomes, and what every owner should know before booking their next habitation service. Plus, the Yorkshire Motorhome & Campervan Show is coming up this weekend, where Matt will be hosting free talks all weekend at the Advice Centre. Our brand new segment, Five Fun Fiamma Facts, reveals the first product Fiamma ever produced, which gave the brand its iconic name. And it’s not what you might have guessed. And in the Q&A, Matt answers your questions on: Streaming UK TV abroad while travelling in Europe Installing an underslung LPG refillable gas tank Whether motorhome upgrades actually increase resale value If you want clear advice on motorhome servicing, warranties, upgrades and ownership, this episode will give you plenty to think about before your next trip. 🗣️CHAT WITH MOTORHOME MATT Join our brand new private Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/motorhomematt ✅ MOTORHOME MATT APPROVED Services, products and educational resources used and approved by Motorhome Matt mhmp.info/approved 🛡️ 15% OFF INSURANCE mhmp.info/ripeinsurance 🔺 SHOP FIAMMA mhmp.info/fiamma 📲 NORD VPN - GET 4 MONTHS FREE https://nordvpn.com/motorhomematt ❓ ASK MATT mhmp.info/askmatt 🗓️ UPCOMING EVENTS mhmp.info/events 📹 WATCH ON YOUTUBE mhmp.info/watch 💬 LEAVE A REVIEW mhmp.info/review 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.

    24 min
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About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Matt Sims and Keith Gooden
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    237
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2023 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Motorhome Matt

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