What is the difference between a motorhome and a camper?

A motorhome is a self-contained vehicle that can be used for both transportation and accommodation. It typically has a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area, and it is powered by a motor. A camper, on the other hand, is a vehicle that has been converted into a campervan. It typically has a sleeping area and a small kitchen, but it does not have a bathroom. Campers are typically towed by a car or truck.

What are the pros and cons of a motorhome?

Motorhomes have the advantage of being self-contained, which means that you can travel to remote locations without having to worry about finding a place to stay. They also have more space than campers, which can be a major advantage if you are traveling with a family or group of friends. However, motorhomes can be more expensive to rent or buy than campers, and they can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.

What are the pros and cons of a camper?

Campers are less expensive to rent or buy than motorhomes, and they are easier to maneuver in tight spaces. They are also more fuel-efficient than motorhomes, which can save you money on gas. However, campers do not have the same level of amenities as motorhomes, and they can be more cramped if you are traveling with a large group.

Which is better for me: a motorhome or a camper?

The best option for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a vehicle that is self-contained and has plenty of space, then a motorhome is a good choice. If you are looking for a more affordable option that is easy to maneuver, then a camper is a better choice.

Camper Rental Iceland
- Mar 27, 2019
- 4 min read

What are the Differences Between a Motorhome and a Campervan

Updated: Aug 10

Renting a campervan or a motorhome is a solution for those who love travelling and independence. Campers are not only a fashionable alternative for a cheap trip but also a way to explore the world from a different perspective. There’s also no need to worry about booking accommodation. However, you will not fully enjoy your trip if your vehicle is not suited accordingly to your needs. The trend of renting a campervan or a motorohme in Iceland has been growing for the past few years. This also makes the assortment of such vehicles in Iceland very wide. We can divide these types of vehicles that also serve as a place to sleep into two main categories: campervans and motorhomes. For those who plan to choose this way of travelling around Iceland for the first time, there might be some confusion in understanding the difference between them. Let’s have a look at the difference between a motorhome and a campervan!

Two motorhomes parked on a campsite in Iceland in a beautiful sunny day

What is a campervan?

At first glance it looks like a simple distinction. And this is partially true as those are the models usually chosen to later be adapted as campervans. The interior though looks nothing like a truck. It is adapted to carry people and luggage and additionally provides a place to sleep and to prepare meals.

The smallest campervans are usually for only two people with two seatbelts on the front seats. In most cases the bed cannot be folded so you should be prepared to cook outside the camper. Most of the models are equipped with camping seats and a table to make your life easier. Please note that during winter and the season when the wind is really strong in Iceland, this option might be limited. The biggest models are usually designed for five to six people. Some of those have a pop out roof which is has a bed above. The average weight for the upper bed is 140kg so keep that in mind when planning a trip with one of those cars.

The basic equipment of a campervan includes all the necessary kitchen utensils and a gas stove so you can make your meals. Do not expect sophisticated tools, as with the case of these models, everything is about limited space.

If you are worried about being cold at night, don’t worry. You will be provided with warm sleeping bags or duvets, depending on the model. In each vehicle there is also a Webasto heating system installed to keep you warm after a long trek in Landmannalaugar!

Some of the bigger campervans have an additional advantage and offer a sink with running water while the smallest ones only come with water tanks.

The big advantage of campervans are the price. They are much more economical than a motorohme. The fact you can get them in both manual and automatic, both 2wd and 4wd, is a huge draw.

For those who are planning to visit Iceland in summer and the Highlands are the desired destination, the 4x4 campervan is the best possible option. Remember that to be able to drive on any gravel roads, including F-roads, you definitely need a four-wheel-drive vehicle.

The only disadvantage I can see is actually the size of this category. For couples though, it will probably be an additional reason for more cuddles.

A stunning view on Skaftafell National Park in Iceland with a campervan going down the gravel road

What is a motorhome?

If you belong to that group of travellers who put an emphasis on comfort, renting a motorhome in Iceland is a perfect option for you. We could easily call motorhomes the big brother of campervans.

The main difference between those two categories is the WC and shower with hot water that you get in a motorohme.

That is a big advantages for those who do not want to bother with looking for a campsite or a public toilet anytime they need.

The seating area in motorohmes is much wider and in the night can serve as an additional bed. There is also much more space for your luggage and some of the models can even carry a few bikes.

The bed linen set in comparison to a campervan, is optional here and can be added at an extra cost. You normally will get a pillow, a duvet, sheets and an a towel, which will help you save a lot of space in your suitcase.

Although the vehicles in this category are much bigger than campervan as are based on long-wheel cars, they do not exceed 3.5t. This means that your standard European category B license is perfectly fine to drive one of them in Iceland.

One of the most important thinngs that should be taken into account when planning your trip, is that motorhomes are not available during the whole year. You can only rent them from mid April till the end of September. This is not just a random season, this is when it is safe to drive such a large vehicle on our roads. Due to a huge demand in interest in motorohmes during winter months, some of the companies have started to offer smaller motorhomes from two to three people, outside the standard season. If you decide to drive a motorhome during winter in Iceland, you need to be cautious and regularly check the weather forecast and road conditions.

Note as well that you will not find an automatic 4x4 motorhome in Iceland, so there’s no chance to drive on gravel roads!

Be prepared for higher costs of fuel as the average consumption of a motorohme is 9-12l/100km. The rental on its own is also less economical than in case of a campervan.