Decoding motorhome layouts: Finding what works for you

You’ve booked the flights, you’re dreaming of those mountain views, and now you’re staring at a rental website trying to figure out the different motorhome layouts for your perfect New Zealand road trip. 

Choosing the right layout decides how comfortable you’ll be day and night. This guide will make that choice easy. We’ll explain the terms and the benefits of each style so you can confidently choose the right vehicle for your group, whether you’re a couple, a family travelling with kids, or a group of friends.

Because we believe in the value of firsthand experience, we asked our marketing team to reveal their favourites. They share insights on which motorhomes they chose for their recent adventures and why they loved them.

What is a 'berth'?

Motorhomes are described by their 'berth' (e.g., 2-berth motorhome layout or 4-berth). This number confirms the legal capacity for both sleeping spaces and seatbelts, but it doesn't indicate the amount of living space, storage, or privacy available.

For example, a 4-berth motorhome layout may feel more spacious with parents and two small children, but may feel cramped when travelling with four adults. This makes checking the motorhome layout just as important as the berth count.

What's the difference between a fixed bed and a convertible lounge?

Fixed beds, convertible lounges, and drop-down beds are the most common motorhome bed types. Each offers a different balance of comfort, storage, and effort.

Fixed bed motorhomes: Comfort and storage

A fixed bed motorhome features a permanent structure with a ready-made mattress that stays in place throughout your trip. These come in a few common configurations:

• Queen (or Island) beds: These are positioned with walking space on both sides, allowing you to get in and out without climbing over your partner.
  
  
• Twin beds: Two separate single beds, ideal for friends, siblings, or couples who prefer their own sleeping space.
  
  
• King beds: In many layouts, twin beds can be joined to form a massive king bed. This is a popular choice for couples wanting extra room or families who co-sleep.
  
  
• The over-cab bed (or 'Luton'): This is the classic "attic" bed found above the driver's cab. It is a great space-saver for families because it creates a permanent sleeping area without taking up any floor space in the main living area. Though some 4 berth motorhomes feature these, you'll definitely have one if you travel with 5-6 people in one motorhome.

Pros:

• Convenience: Your bed is always ready. There is no need to set it up or pack it away each day.
  
  
• Comfort: These beds are designed specifically for sleeping and feature proper mattresses, rather than the seat cushions used in convertible lounges.
  
  
• Storage: The raised bed height creates a large "garage" storage area underneath and often allows for cupboards above, providing ample space for luggage and adventure gear.
  
  

Cons:

• Living space: A permanent bed takes up significant floor space, meaning your dedicated daytime lounge area will be smaller compared to layouts with fold-away beds (this doesn't apply to over-cab beds).

Convertible lounges: Maximum space, more effort

A convertible lounge (or 'dinette') is a seating area with a table that transforms into a bed at night. You typically lower the table and rearrange the seat cushions to create the mattress.

Pros:

This layout really opens up the motorhome during the day, giving you a spacious area to eat, relax, play cards, or just spread out and enjoy the view.

Cons:

Requires daily setup and pack down. Sleeping on joined cushions is generally less comfortable and supportive than a proper single mattress.

The best of both worlds: The drop-down bed

This is a highly innovative solution that offers the best of both fixed and convertible layouts. A drop-down bed is a ready-made double bed that stores securely against the ceiling during the day. At night,  you simply lower the beds over the lounge area. This clever design maximises your living space during the day and offers a comfortable sleeping arrangement at night.

Pros:

• Convenience: You don't need to make up the bed each day. It is quick and hassle-free to lower when you are ready to sleep.
  
  
• Space-saving: When not in use, the bed tucks away completely, freeing up the living space for daytime use.
  
  
• Comfort: unlike convertible lounges, many drop-down beds come with real mattresses rather than seat cushions, providing a better night's rest.

Cons:

• Accessibility: Some drop-down beds require a short ladder to access, which may not suit travellers with limited mobility.
  
  
• Child restraints: In some models, you may need to remove child restraints from the dining seats underneath before lowering the bed. It is worth checking with your rental provider to choose a model where this isn't necessary.
  
  

Discover our top tips for sleeping better in a motorhome.

I travelled for a week around the South Island with my parents in a Double for 4. I was in the drop down bed above the lounge area and it was extremely comfortable. The bed felt like just that, a PROPER bed! No lumps and bumps, no seat cushions converted to a bed. As someone who can feel claustrophobic in tight spaces, I felt like I had plenty of space in the bed.

 

I'm also a bit of a fussy sleeper; I need it to be quiet to be able to get a good night's sleep. Despite the fact that my parents (and dad’s snoring) were only a couple of metres away, the bedroom door provided good quality sound dampening, meaning I never actually used the earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones I had bought for the trip, as I just didn't hear them. This included the multiple trips to the toilet they would make each night.

 

As someone who had never been camping in NZ before, my mum was a bit nervous about using the drop toilets in campsites. Having the luxury of a modern hotel-like bathroom meant she didn't mind where we camped; her mind was at ease knowing that she could access a clean facility whenever she needed to. This was a game-changer for her throughout the trip, as it meant she could travel with confidence.

 

Does the lounge layout really matter?

Yes! The lounge is where you’ll spend your downtime, especially on rainy days, and its position really changes the feel of your motorhome.

Front lounge layouts

A front lounge is a modern European design that creates a very open-plan, social feel. It integrates the driver's cab into the living space by having the comfortable front driver and passenger seats swivel 180 degrees to face the rest of the lounge. This is a very efficient use of space and is perfect for socialising. All of our premium German-built motorhomes are built around this smart, spacious design.

Rear lounge layouts 

Standard rear lounges feature wraparound seating at the back of the vehicle. While they offer great views, they almost always double as the bedroom. This means you have to convert the seats into a bed every night, which is generally less comfortable than a proper mattress.

The Double Lounge

We offer a specific category that solves this problem: the Double Lounge, found in our model, The Suite. This unique layout features two separate lounges, one at the front and one at the back. It gives you that dedicated rear relaxation zone with panoramic views, but without the hassle or discomfort of a convertible bed. Instead, electric drop-down beds lower from the ceiling, giving you the best of both worlds: a massive living area and instant sleeping comfort.

As a family of four, the double lounge feature in the Suite was the best fit. We loved the bigger living areas, and the bed setup is honestly the easiest for me. The two lounges are a lifesaver, and the kids can play in the rear while my husband and I are eating or having a quiet moment up front.

 

Motorhome kitchen and bathroom considerations

While the bed and lounge often get the most attention, motorhome kitchens and bathrooms are where the practical side of motorhome life happens. These functional spaces play a role in your day-to-day comfort on the road.

What makes a good motorhome kitchen?

Cooking in a motorhome is a bit different from your kitchen at home, but with the right setup, you can make delicious and easy meals on the road. Here are five things to look out for:

• Efficient layout: Bench space is always tight. Look for clever features that maximise your prep area, like glass covers over the stove and sink, or a fold-out extension. These provide you with extra room to chop veggies when you aren't cooking.
  
  
• Essential appliances: You’ll typically find a sink, a gas stove, and a fridge. Look for a '3-way fridge'—this smart appliance switches between battery (while driving), gas (when freedom camping), and mains electricity (at campsites), ensuring your food stays cool no matter where you are. When it comes to hot food, motorhome cooking is almost entirely gas-based. Even if your model includes an oven or grill, it will run on gas. Because of this, you typically won't find a microwave, as they consume too much energy for standard motorhome batteries.
  
  
• Practical storage: Most storage is in overhead lockers. It helps to have plenty of space up there so you can keep the worktop clear for cooking.
  
  
• Smart ventilation: Because you are cooking with gas, proper airflow is a safety essential. It’s not just about temperature; you need to vent out cooking fumes and steam to prevent dampness building up inside the vehicle. Make sure there is an opening window or roof vent right next to the kitchen to keep the air fresh and dry.
  
  
• Quality utensils: You can expect the basics like pans, chopping boards, and cutlery. Premium motorhomes usually come with extra crockery, but it’s always a handy tip to bring your own containers for leftovers—they aren't usually included.
  
  

Learn more in our guide to cooking in motorhome kitchens.

What makes a good motorhome bathroom layout?

Motorhomes generally have two main bathroom styles: the "wet room" and the "dry room".

• The wet room: This is the standard setup where the full-service bathroom shares one waterproof space. It’s a great space-saver and often gives you a larger shower area. However, it means everything gets wet when you shower. You’ll need to wipe down the toilet and walls afterwards, and there is usually no dry storage for your toiletries.
  
  
• The Vario bathroom: Featured in our Compact Plus motorhome, this clever hybrid design solves the wet room trade-off. A swinging wall (usually holding the sink and mirror) rotates to cover the toilet, creating a sealed, hard-walled shower cubicle. This gives you the space efficiency of a wet room while keeping your toilet, storage and towels completely dry.

• The dry room: Found in premium models, this layout separates the shower cubicle from the rest of the bathroom. This keeps the non-shower area and floor dry, making it safer with less risk of slipping, and provides proper cupboards to keep your essentials dry and organised.
  
  
• Separate rooms: Some top-end layouts even split the toilet and shower into two completely different rooms. This is ideal for families or groups, as two people can use the facilities at the same time, though it does take up more floor space overall.
  
  

Ultimately, it depends on your priorities. Wet rooms are typical in smaller or entry-level models where space is limited. Dry or separate rooms deliver superior comfort, safety, and storage, while the Vario bathroom offers a smart compromise, keeping your essentials dry without sacrificing floor space.

Learn more in our guide to campervan bathrooms.

Which motorhome layout is best for couples vs families?

Choosing the right layout depends heavily on who is travelling and what your priorities are.

For Couples

As a couple, you generally have the most freedom of choice. Since you aren't restricted by the number of seatbelts, you can technically fit into anything from a compact campervan to a large 6-berth liner. The "perfect" layout really comes down to three main lifestyle choices:

1. Driving confidence vs. Interior space 

The first decision is how comfortable you are driving a larger vehicle.

• The Agility Approach: If you plan to spend most of your time hiking or exploring narrow backroads, a compact motorhome under 6-7 metres is ideal. These are easier to park in town centres and manoeuvre on winding roads, but offer less living space and smaller wet or vario type bathroom. This is the philosophy behind our Compact for 2, maximum agility for active travellers.
  
  
• The Comfort Approach: If you prefer a "home away from home" feeling, moving up to a longer vehicle (7m+) significantly opens up the living space. The extra length allows for luxuries like a permanent fixed bed and a more spacious front lounge, making rainy days or relaxing evenings far more enjoyable.
  
  
  

2. Sleeping dynamics and avoiding the "climb-over"  

As we mentioned earlier, the type of bed dictates your nighttime comfort.

• Island Beds: If you or your partner gets up often during the night, look for a layout with an Island Queen bed (like in our Double for 2). Because you can walk around both sides, nobody has to climb over the other to get to the bathroom.
  
  
• Flexible Twin/King: If you are light sleepers or prefer personal space, twin single beds are often the best choice. In versatile layouts like our Compact Plus, these can be kept separate or joined together to create a massive King bed, giving you the flexibility to choose what works best for you on the night.
  
  

3. Bathroom preferences 

Finally, consider how much you value a separate shower.

• Wet Rooms/Vario: In compact vans, the bathroom is usually a wet room or Vario design to save space. It is functional and efficient, perfect if you mostly use campsite facilities.
  
  
• Dry Rooms: For longer trips or winter travel, a separate shower cubicle (a "dry room") is a game-changer. It keeps the toilet area dry and offers better storage for toiletries. If this level of comfort is non-negotiable for you, a larger model like the Double for 2 is the way to go.

My partner and I went travelling for four days in Northland in a Double for 2. This layout worked really well and was the perfect size for the two of us. It was so easy at the end of a day of driving to have the permanently made-up bed in the back to kick back and relax. 

 

The motorhome felt spacious, specifically being able to fold up the dining table and swivel the cab chairs for extra room (and marvel at the view)! Dining was very easy; the layout allowed one of us to be cooking in the kitchen while the other prepared food at the dining table.

 

There was heaps of storage (in the garage and inside the motorhome); everything had a spot to be tucked away nicely out of sight. I also loved how you can close off the toilet and bedroom doors, which allowed us to sleep in a little more with less light coming in from the living area.

 

The Double for 2 was perfect for us, and for my first motorhome trip! 

 

For families

When travelling with children, the priorities shift from "agility" to "logistics." While you obviously need enough seatbelts for everyone, the real challenge is finding a layout that preserves your sanity on rainy days and allows for different sleep schedules.

Here are the three main factors to consider:

1. Creating distinct zones for quiet time 

One of the biggest mistakes families make is choosing a layout where the beds block the living area.

Ideally, you want a layout that splits the vehicle into two distinct zones. A popular setup features permanent beds at the rear for the children and a drop-down bed at the front for the parents. This allows you to put the kids to bed at the back of the motorhome while you stay up in the front lounge to enjoy a glass of wine or plan the next day's route. This "two-room" feel is exactly why our King/Twin for 4 is such a favorite among families with 61% of them choosing the king bed set up over twin beds.

2. Maximising floor space

Kids need room to move, play, and get dressed. If a motorhome is filled with permanent fixed beds, the floor space disappears. Look for layouts that utilise drop-down beds. Because these beds disappear into the ceiling during the day, they leave the entire lounge area free for playing, eating, and hanging out. However, make sure that you have enough space for car seats underneath the beds, so you don’t need to remove them each night (check with your rental provider). While convertible lounges also save space, they require a lot of effort to set up every night. 

A drop-down bed offers the best of both worlds: the floor space of a lounge with the instant convenience of a ready-made bed.

3. External Storage 

Families rarely travel light. Between strollers, scooters, backpacks, and muddy boots, the cabin can quickly become cluttered if you don't have dedicated storage. In motorhome terms, a garage is a large, external locker at the rear of the vehicle. This is essential for keeping bulky gear out of your living space. It keeps the interior clean and safe. You don't want to be tripping over suitcases in the aisle. 

We travelled in the Twin King for 4, and it was perfect for our little family. Our son was around three at the time, and we loved being able to make up the king bed in the rear. He slept right between us, which meant we could keep an eye on him — and he adored having such a huge bed to stretch out in. To him, the whole motorhome felt like one big playground.

 

Another feature we loved was that once the king bed was set up, you could close off the rear bedroom door. It meant he could sleep safely and we could still use the rest of the motorhome without disturbing him. It made evenings so much easier — we could cook, chat, or relax up front while he slept peacefully in his own little space.

 

Learn more about our different types of premium motorhomes.

What factors should I consider before picking a layout in New Zealand?

Choosing the right layout involves balancing several key factors specific to your trip:

1. Your travel party: How many people are going? Consider their ages and need for privacy (e.g. a family with teens might need more separation than a couple).
   
   
2. Convenience vs. space: Are you willing to make up a bed daily to gain more daytime living area, or is a ready-made bed non-negotiable?
   
   
3. Cooking style: How do you plan to eat? If you want to cook full meals with fresh local ingredients, prioritise a layout with decent bench space and an oven and lots of storage space. If you plan to mostly eat out, a simpler kitchenette will be fine.
   
   
4. Your activities: Are you planning to ski, surf, or swim a lot? If so, you’ll need a layout with a large garage for your gear and a good drying space (like a heated bathroom) for wet towels and clothes.
   
   
5. Your daily routine: Will you spend evenings relaxing inside, or mostly use the motorhome for sleeping and driving? This impacts how much lounge space you need.
   
   
6. Trip length: For longer trips, spacious layouts with distinct zones and better storage become increasingly important for maintaining comfort.
   
   
7. New Zealand conditions: Consider the weather. While layout doesn't directly impact driving, having a comfortable, warm living space is vital for enjoying your evenings if the weather turns.

Does layout choice affect rental cost or convenience?

Yes, the layout choice of your motorhome makes a huge difference. While the size and age of the vehicle set the baseline price, the layout determines how much effort your holiday requires.

After a big day of hiking or driving, you might not have the energy to build your bed from scratch. Layouts with convertible lounges are often cheaper, but you "pay" for that saving with your time every morning and night. In contrast, fixed or drop-down beds mean you can just crash out when you're tired.

The same applies to the bathroom. A wet room saves space, but a separate shower means you don't have to wipe down a wet toilet seat in the middle of the night. These layout choices eliminate those small daily frustrations.

Generally, you will find "simpler" layouts (like convertible dinettes and wet baths) in budget-friendly, older fleets. Innovative, high-comfort layouts are the standard in premium, modern motorhomes. While they might cost a bit more to rent, they offer a much smoother, hassle-free experience on the road.

Layouts that rely on clever engineering, like drop-down beds or separate shower cubicles, cost more to manufacture than simple foam cushions and a table. Naturally, this higher build quality usually means a higher daily rental rate. A higher rental price is typically also associated with better standards of customer service from the rental company.

Learn more in our guide to motorhome rental costs.

How much space do I really need for a comfortable trip?

Determining how much space you really need for a comfortable trip is different for everyone, but a good rule of thumb is to pick a layout where you aren't constantly bumping into each other. It’s also smart to think about when you are travelling.

If you are visiting in the off-season when the weather can be mixed, you’ll likely spend more time inside your vehicle. When the weather is warm, the outdoors acts as your extra living room. But in the shoulder seasons or winter, the days are shorter and rain is more likely. You won't be sitting outside in camping chairs until late at night. Instead, you'll be cooking, eating, playing cards, and relaxing inside the motorhome.

If your vehicle is too small, ‘cosy’ can quickly turn into ‘cramped,’ especially when you add wet coats and boots to the mix. That’s why having a bit of extra floor space to spread out makes a huge difference when the sun goes down; you want a space that feels like a comfortable retreat after a day of exploring, not a cramped box. 

Now, you can choose your motorhome with total confidence. Whether you need a fixed bed or extra space for the family, you are ready to pick the perfect base for your New Zealand adventure.

Ready to see these layouts in action?

Explore our full range of premium German motorhomes to find the perfect fit for your New Zealand adventure or speak to our reservations team.