{"id":35536,"date":"2023-09-20T12:01:02","date_gmt":"2023-09-20T04:01:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.carsome.my\/news\/?p=35536"},"modified":"2023-09-20T12:01:02","modified_gmt":"2023-09-20T04:01:02","slug":"caravan-guide-malaysia","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.carsome.my\/news\/item\/caravan-guide-malaysia","title":{"rendered":"From Caravans to Motorhomes: Tips for Your Dream RV Adventure in Malaysia"},"content":{"rendered":"

When it comes to exploring the scenic beauty and diverse landscapes of Malaysia, there’s no better way to do it than with a recreational vehicle (RV). RVs offer a unique and comfortable way to travel, combining the freedom of the open road with the convenience of a mobile home. However, not all RVs are created equal, and understanding the distinctions between the three primary types of RVs available in Malaysia \u2013 caravans, campervans, and motorhomes \u2013 can help you choose the perfect RV for your needs.<\/span><\/p>\n

If you\u2019ve always wondered how to purchase or rent a caravan, campervan, or motorhome in Malaysia, or if you need some ideas for your next getaway, we\u2019ll explain everything you need to know in this article.<\/span><\/p>\n

Types of RVs in Malaysia<\/span><\/h2>\n

There are three main types of RVs in Malaysia \u2013 the caravan, campervan, and motorhome. People unfamiliar with RVs may use the terms interchangeably but there are actually distinct differences between them. Each vehicle has different features as well as pros and cons. Here\u2019s more information about each type of RV.<\/span><\/p>\n

1. Caravan<\/span><\/h3>\n

\"Caravan<\/p>\n

A caravan, also called a caravan trailer in Malaysia is a trailer that has to be towed by another vehicle, typically a pickup truck. Compared to a campervan and motorhome, a caravan doesn\u2019t have an engine and instead, only acts as the living quarters when you\u2019re touring or camping. Caravans can come in all sizes from smaller units 3 m in length to bigger ones at more than 5 m.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Depending on its size, a caravan usually provides more space than a campervan or motorhome with a berth of four to seven, with berth being the number of people that can sleep comfortably in the caravan. The price of a caravan in Malaysia averages around RM80,000 to over RM100,000 depending on its size and features<\/span><\/p>\n

Since a caravan is a separate unit, it can fit more amenities including multiple beds, a kitchen, bathroom, fridge, microwave oven, and other items. One downside to using a caravan is that you\u2019ll be driving a much larger vehicle which makes it trickier to maneuver. That said, you can detach it from your main vehicle whenever you need to, making it more versatile.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. Campervan<\/span><\/h3>\n

A campervan is a vehicle with a driver\u2019s cab, engine, and living quarters at the rear. Compared to a caravan, a campervan can be driven and doesn\u2019t have to be towed. Campervans are typically converted from conventionally sized vans which means they\u2019re more compact in size.<\/span><\/p>\n

Common vehicles you can convert to a campervan in Malaysia include the Toyota Hiace and Nissan Vanette. For more vertical interior space, you can get a campervan converted from Maxus vans, Inokom vans, or Ford Transit vans. Depending on its age and condition, the price of a campervan in Malaysia can range from as low as RM50,000 for a used one to way over RM100,000 for a new campervan.<\/span><\/p>\n

While its size makes it easy to maneuver in most places, it also limits the campervan\u2019s interior space. Campervans can usually fit two to four people and may have a smaller kitchen space. Depending on the size and layout, some campervans can\u2019t fit a proper shower area and instead only have a small toilet area to fit a portable toilet.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

3. Motorhome<\/span><\/h3>\n

\"RV<\/p>\n

Image credit: <\/span>www.rvmaxus.com.my<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

A motorhome is similar to a campervan in that it\u2019s a vehicle with living quarters that can be driven on its own. However, motorhomes are larger than campervans as they are built on a <\/span>truck<\/span><\/a>, bus, or large van chassis that\u2019s wider and longer.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Popular platforms used for motorhomes in Malaysia include the <\/span>Toyota Hilux<\/span><\/a> and Maxus V80. If you\u2019re looking for a factory-built motorhome, you can consider the RV Maxus or the <\/span>CAM Caravan<\/span><\/a> motorhome. A brand new CAM Caravan motorhome price in Malaysia is over RM200,000 but you can probably get a used motorhome such as a Mitsubishi Delica JB500 for a lot less than that, depending on its condition and included features.<\/span><\/p>\n

Motorhomes can comfortably fit four to five people, and may even fit a decent shower unit inside, unlike a campervan. If you plan on traveling with more people and require more space in your RV, a motorhome can serve you better.<\/span><\/p>\n

Read More: <\/b>Land Travel from Malaysia to Singapore: What to Do Before Your Road Trip<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Common RV Amenities<\/span><\/h2>\n

So, what can you get in a caravan, campervan, or motorhome in Malaysia? Turns out, a lot. Here are the common amenities available in most RVs.<\/span><\/p>\n

Caravan Beds<\/span><\/h3>\n

No campervan or motorhome is complete without a bed. Bed options include convertible sofa beds, full-size twin or single beds, bunk beds, and overcab beds. An overcab bed is a space to fit a double bed built above the driver\u2019s cab. This feature provides extra sleeping space and can double up as a storage space while you\u2019re traveling.<\/span><\/p>\n

Caravan Chairs & Tables<\/span><\/h3>\n

The chairs in an RV are usually benches that you can convert to a bed, while most tables can be folded away. This design allows you to get more functionality out of your RV while saving space.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Woman<\/p>\n

Caravan Fan or Aircon<\/span><\/h3>\n

A roof fan or aircon unit is essential in any caravan or motorhome, and that\u2019s especially true in a tropical country like Malaysia. These cooling devices are compact and designed specifically to fit in the roof of an RV.<\/span><\/p>\n

Caravan Kitchen<\/span><\/h3>\n

Having kitchen space is essential when you\u2019re touring Malaysia in your caravan. While larger motorhomes and caravans may have a decently sized kitchen with a stove, sink, and fridge built in, smaller campervans may have a mini fridge and slide-out kitchen at the back of the vehicle, or no kitchen at all. That said, it\u2019s not uncommon for users to pack a foldable table and portable stove for cooking.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Caravan Storage Compartments<\/span><\/h3>\n

With its limited space, an RV often incorporates smart storage designs and hidden compartments. Besides interior storage for your clothes, electronics, and daily necessities, you could also have external storage for things you\u2019d use outdoors such as foldable tables, awning parts, and other equipment.<\/span><\/p>\n

Caravan Toilet & Shower<\/span><\/h3>\n

Many large RVs have enough space for an interior shower space with a toilet. However, smaller campervans may only have a small cubicle for a portable toilet, with an external shower. Depending on the space you have, your RV will have a water tank for your daily use.<\/span><\/p>\n

Caravan Power Generator<\/span><\/h3>\n

Being off the grid most of the time, an RV may have a power generator be it in the form of a solar cell on the roof, a lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) portable power station, or a fuel-powered genset.<\/span><\/p>\n

Caravan External Awning<\/span><\/h3>\n

Many RVs have an extendable awning or canopy attached to the side that you can extend to provide a shaded outdoor seating area. This is especially helpful when you\u2019re relaxing, having a meal, or cooking outdoors.<\/span><\/p>\n

Caravan, Campervan & Motorhome Rental Price in Malaysia<\/span><\/h2>\n

With the caravan scene steadily growing in Malaysia, you can now obtain one quite easily. You can rent a caravan, campervan, or motorhome from one of the many RV rental companies such as Karysma Motorhome, Camperv, and VR Motorhome & Caravan.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The daily rental for an RV varies according to its type, size, and rental duration. The average rental rate for a 4-berth campervan with a kitchen and toilet in Malaysia is around RM1,000 per day but you can get one for less than that, depending on the included features.<\/span><\/p>\n

Read More: <\/b>Car Camping in Malaysia: Essential Supplies & Top Camping Spots to Visit<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

How to Buy Your Own RV in Malaysia<\/span><\/h2>\n

To get your own RV in Malaysia, you can either buy a ready-made one, import a new or used RV, buy a used van or truck and convert it into a campervan or motorhome, or get a local RV builder or workshop to handle the whole building process for you.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Camperv<\/p>\n

Image credit: camperv.my<\/span><\/p>\n

Importing an RV into Malaysia<\/span><\/h3>\n

Firstly, unless you\u2019re experienced in importing RVs into Malaysia, it\u2019s probably best to let a reputable RV builder source one for you and import it into the country. Importing an RV from overseas requires you to buy your chosen caravan, campervan, or motorhome (usually used) from an overseas dealer and handle the freighting process. Here\u2019s a brief rundown of what you need to do:<\/span><\/p>\n