High fuel prices reshape travel patterns for motorhome and caravan users

French web developer Ronan sold his house in Brest for €112,000 and has been living full-time in a motorhome since spring 2022. He travels across Southern Europe without a fixed itinerary, working remotely via mobile internet. He bought a used motorhome for €22,000 and spent €800 on DIY interior fitting. With a monthly net income of €1,600–€1,800, Ronan now saves €300–€400 per month, whereas previous housing costs (water, gas, electricity, and an annual property tax of €480) left little room for savings.

French manufacturer Pilote and Bavaria are updating the front design of their integral motorhomes for the 2027 model year. Instead of the rounded 'friendly' face used by Pilote for about a decade, the new models feature a more angular front with contrasting paint and LED lights connected by a black panel. The changes are driven not only by aesthetics but also by new European safety regulations (General Safety Regulation) requiring integration of cameras and driver assistance systems, which is more challenging for integral motorhomes where the manufacturer designs the entire front end. The rear also gets a new light signature with an LED strip.

The fourth edition of the Provence Van Week-End will take place on September 12–13, 2026, at the Jardins d'Albertas in Bouc-Bel-Air. The event will feature a large exhibitor village with dozens of professionals in van conversions, accessories, and rentals, as well as a bivouac for overnight stays, live concerts, and food trucks. Organizers say the festival is aimed at both experienced travelers and newcomers.

Ronan, a resident of Brest, sold his 60 sq m house for €112,000 and bought a used 2005 motorhome for €22,000. Since spring 2022, he has been traveling and working freelance, saving €300–400 per month on a net income of €1,600–1,800. However, experts note that this model requires location-independent work, minimalism, and acceptance of seasonal costs; in the Netherlands, permanent motorhome living faces tax and administrative hurdles.

Renault has introduced the fourth-generation Master, now serving as a base for motorhomes and campervans. The model is available with diesel and fully electric powertrains, multiple wheelbases, and the aerodynamic Aerovan design. German manufacturer Ahorn Camp is the first to base its entire lineup of nine motorhomes and two campervans exclusively on the Master. The 2027 model range premiere is set for July 7, with public debut at the Caravan Salon Düsseldorf from August 28 to September 6, 2026. Prices start at €54,300 for a campervan and €59,900 for a motorhome.

French motorhome manufacturer Notin has launched the Envol range, comprising three models based on the Fiat Ducato 140 hp. Prices start at €78,910. Models range from 6.49 to 7.19 m in length and feature an independent shower, separate toilet, and generous storage. The body uses NCIS technology (polyester sandwich without wood, styrofoam insulation). Standard equipment includes a Pioneer GPS with rear-view camera, 152 L compressor fridge, Combi 6 diesel/electric heater, and insulated heated wastewater tank. The optional Envol pack (€3,000) adds a 150 Ah lithium battery, 2000 W inverter, 200 W solar panel with MPPT controller, and an awning.