Lately, many friends on the forum have been discussing road trips, and I’ve been itching to get in on the action, dreaming of buying a motorhome to explore every corner of Spain. But dreams are one thing, and reality is another. The big question is: how much does it actually cost to get a motorhome in Spain? I’ve done a fair bit of research recently, and today I’m sharing what I’ve found. Experts, feel free to add your insights or corrections!
The Cost of the Motorhome Itself
This is the biggest initial expense. It mainly breaks down into two categories: new and used.
New Motorhomes
The world of new motorhomes is vast and varied. The most common types are:
- Campervan: The most compact and agile option, also relatively affordable, with new models generally costing between €45,000 and €70,000.
- Perfilada (Semi-integrated): Offering more space and comfort than a campervan, this is the mainstream choice in the market, typically priced between €60,000 and €90,000. Many models from the local Spanish brand Benimar fall into this category.
- Integral (A-Class): The top-of-the-line option, with the driver’s cab and living area fully integrated for maximum space. Naturally, they are the most expensive, usually starting at €90,000 and up.
Used Motorhomes
The second-hand market can be tricky, but it’s a great way to save money. Prices vary wildly, from older vehicles for just over €10,000 to nearly-new ones for €70,000-€80,000. It’s essential to inspect a used vehicle thoroughly! Pay close attention to its condition, mileage, and any signs of water leaks. It’s best to bring along a knowledgeable friend to have a look. A reasonable budget for a Perfilada in good condition, aged 5-8 years, would be around €35,000 to €50,000.
Ongoing Ownership Costs
I naively thought that once you buy the vehicle, you’re done
| Item | Estimated Annual Cost | Notes |
|---|
| Comprehensive Insurance | €1,000 - €1,800 | Highly recommended for new or expensive used motorhomes. It’s crucial! |
| Road Tax (IVTM) | €150 - €250 | Varies depending on the vehicle model and your municipality. |
| ITV (Vehicle Inspection) | €70 - €100 | New vehicles are exempt for the first few years, then it becomes more frequent. |
| Basic Maintenance | €300 - €600 | Oil changes, filter replacements, etc., similar to a regular car. |
| Parking/Storage Fees | €600 - €1,200 | If you don’t have space at home to park a motorhome in Spain, renting a dedicated spot isn’t cheap. |
| Miscellaneous | €100 - €200 | Consumables like propane gas bottles, toilet chemicals, etc. |
So, adding it all up, even if you don’t take it out on trips, you’re looking at a fixed annual cost of €2,000 to €4,000 just to ‘keep’ it. And that’s not even including fuel, tolls, and campsite fees.
In conclusion, buying a motorhome in Spain is definitely a significant investment. The freedom and scenery it offers are priceless, but the initial outlay and ongoing expenses are very real. I’d recommend renting one for a few weeks before you buy to see if you truly enjoy and are suited to this lifestyle.
What do you all think of these costs? Any experienced motorhome owners out there who can share their experiences? Let’s chat in the comments section!
