When times are hard and the purse strings are tight, it’s normal to see a big increase in the number of Britons opting for staycations.
As the nation looks to push beyond the COVID-19 pandemic in the coming months, we’re likely to see staycations rising to the fore once again, particularly given the likelihood that social distancing and international travel restrictions will remain in place for the foreseeable future.
And, when it comes to safe, socially-responsible holidaying, what could be more appropriate than a motorhome staycation?
Motorhomes give holidaymakers the chance to get closer to nature and experience a new corner of the country with minimal need for hands-on external hospitality. All holidaymakers need by way of immediate amenities is access to water, waste disposal, and a nearby petrol station.
The low-maintenance, self-service character of motorhome life is one of the reasons why, in recent weeks we’ve seen several examples of motorhomes being redeployed to support frontline NHS workers who have had to self-isolate away from their families. With millions of Britons currently dreaming of their first post-lockdown holiday, we’re expecting to see more than three quarters of a million caravans and motorhomes hit the roads once the Government gives the go-ahead for a return to staycationing.
Bringing a wealth of wellbeing benefits
Even prior to the lockdown, the popularity of camping and motorhome holidays was on the up. In large part this trend has been driven by younger holidaymakers recognising the mental health and wellbeing benefits of spending time in the countryside with their loved ones. There’s even a growing #vanlife movement built around embracing minimalism and rediscovering the great outdoors in a bid to live a happy and balanced life.
After the COVID-19 ordeal, millions of people will be in need of a wellbeing boost and, if the lockdown has taught us anything, it’s that many of life’s richest pleasures are simple and too often taken for granted. Exploring the countryside and enjoying quality time with our families and friends certainly fit into this category, and again, motorhomes represents the perfect way for people to get back to basics with their holiday pursuits, kickstarting Britain’s tourist industry without compromising anyone’s health and safety.
The complex business of motorhome insurance
Of course, even once the lockdown is lifted, no one can hit the road in a motorhome without appropriate insurance. This can be easier said than done. Motorhome are complex, often high-cost vehicles that are subject to exacting DVLA definitions and licensing requirements – providing cover for them isn’t something that every insurer feels comfortable taking on.
However, at ERS we employ specialist underwriters that fully understand the motorhome market, supported by our Insurer Hosted Pricing (IHP) technology, which means we’re able to provide brokers with real-time pricing specific to each individual vehicle. There’s no limit of indemnity for windscreen/glass damage in the policies we offer, while we can even validate policy holder’s identity and financial history for any prospective new customers, taking this burden off brokers’ hands.
