Motorhome and Caravan Show Birmingham NEC

[DeltaAlphaDelta79]

Anyone going? This will be our second year, but the first year since we had our motorhome, so hopefully we will have an idea of what we are looking for this time!

We are going. We had a trial week while on holiday in New Zealand a few weeks ago, loved the experience, and can’t wait to find one to buy!

We very nearly bought a new one there the year before last, but we didn't quite have the money and didn't want to have finance. So glad we waited and got one secondhand. But its great for getting an idea of what you might like.

I agree. We will almost definitely opt for a secondhand van 👍
just want to check the layouts to confirm exactly what we’re looking for…very exciting :)

Yes, going again. 😁
Been going on and off since the 1980's.

Ordered our latest van there last year (done it several times before), don't get delivery until spring/summer next year. Interested to see if there are any changes to the 2024MY (different fabrics, colour schemes etc).

Only trouble with ordering at the show is that you are buying through the dealer who is representing the manufacturers range that year so you can end up buying from a dealer a significant distance away. Up to you to decide if you are willing to do that to get the show price.
Also ensure the price is fixed as increases have been significant in recent years so getting a fixed price is a must.

Want to look at a couple of the accessory suppliers as we are getting self levelling fitted to this van and OH is keen to talk technical with the suppliers.

We are not buying another van but it'll be good to have a nosey round and get some ideas. Definitely need some accessories tho!

We are going. I just want a nosey really.

I’ve not been before.

Leave your purse at home to avoid the temptation to put down a deposit on a MH or camper! 😂

That’s actually what piqued my curiosity. Some friends of ours went last year because they were interested in buying a camper. They ended up putting a deposit down on a motorhome instead.

Be aware of buying at the show unless the dealer is near. The caravan and Motorhome dealer network is not like for cars. The dealers are not obliged to accept warranty work due to the low rates and many don’t unless they supplied it.

in reality, if there are any defects, and sadly there tends to be then rectification is the responsibility of the dealer under the Consumer Protection Act so it needs to go to them which is problematic if a big distance. We bought from a dealer 1 hour away but for each of the 10 times we had to return it, it was a 3 hour journey all in.

They are notorious for refusing to correct faults straight away claiming they need authorisation from the manufacturer which is rubbish for a new purchase. My DH had to remind them several times of their legal responsibilities and they did back off reluctantly

oh…and if time wise it is near to the show, you will often find the local dealer will give the same discount

good luck

I would love to go but from experience it's usually full of old people coughing, usually all over everyone around them and I can't cope with yet another chest infection.

Last year we found that the autumn show was v poor on accessories and mainly featured new vans..(which we already had) When we went to the February one ( which is the Camping, caravan and MH show) pre covid it had whole a separate hall just for camping gear .. I'd definitely check first and see who's exhibiting and if there is a separate camping bit ..if not then February maybe better for what you need

This is the Caravan and Motorhome show so no, there is no camping element to it.
Of course there will be some overlap and a few accessories will be suitable for camping but really you need to go to the Feb show if that is your thing.

Actually we usually find that there is not much in the way of accessories at this show anyway but then again, we go to look at the MH's (and have ordered several!).

For accessories the Out And About Live regional shows are your best bet, no shortage of things to buy at those!

We're going for the day - not to buy anything (might get a Cadac bbq if there's a good offer ) but just going to be nosy. It was a great day out last year - lots to look at and some fairly eye-popping prices!

Did the show today. 👍

There were quite a few stands selling things but these ranged from cheese, Chesterfield sofas, bracelets to help rheumatism and then things more targeting MH & caravan owners. There were things to buy but I stand with my earlier opinion that the Out And About Live shows are definitely aimed more at those wanting to buy parts & accessories.

Lovely display of new MH's, campers & caravans, should be something there for everyone but you need deep pockets.

Met our dealer and he said that the MH we ordered at the NEC last year is going into production in Jan and should be available for us to collect 1st March. 😁
OH checked out the auto levelling systems and is looking forward to getting that fitted sometime after delivery (boys and toys!).

Excellent stuff. We were looking for more accessory type stuff - an awning, new interior carpet and bits and bobs. Hopefully we find something

Anyone who has been already - what were the food outlets like? I know they will be dear, but was the quality ok?

We went today but didn’t eat anything so can’t really help. Sorry.