Motorhome trips can create exceptional adventures that you’ll remember for a lifetime, but there are some challenges you’ll need to navigate to ensure a successful trip. If you’re planning to take a motorhome trip abroad for the first time, here are a few tips you should keep in mind.
Essential documentation and legal requirements
Before setting off, you must ensure that you have all the necessary documentation. That includes passports, Visas, driving licences, vehicle registration, valid motorhome insurance, and potentially a VE103 form (if your vehicle is hired or leased).
It’s important to check your motorhome insurance coverage because not all insurance will allow you to drive in other countries. It’s also vital that you check the individual requirements for each country you’ll pass through, since they may require different documents. Not having these readily available can cause issues and hold up your journey.
Preparing your motorhome for European roads
It’s not just documentation you need to worry about either. We strongly urge you to familiarise yourself with the various driving laws and road signs of the countries you’ll be visiting.
Travelling through Europe can differ wildly from the UK, which makes understanding the road laws crucial. For instance, some European countries require you to carry a warning triangle, high-visibility vests, and headlight converters. These measures are to protect you and other drivers on the road, especially in case of a breakdown.
We also recommend that you consider any size and weight restrictions for certain roads or campsites, especially if you have a larger motorhome.
Navigating accommodation and campsite options
One brilliant aspect of travelling through Europe in a motorhome is the wide range of motorhome-friendly accommodation options. For example, France has many overnight parking spots called ‘aires’, but there are also many dedicated campsites.
Before you set off on your journey, you should research and plan your stops. Not only will this give you a rough idea of each leg of your trip, but you won’t be surprised by a site’s facilities (or lack thereof). Certain resources, like the Caravan and Motorhome Club, can provide valuable insights and recommendations as to where you should rest up.
Essential tips for a smooth journey
To ensure your trip is as smooth as possible, here are a few more tips to keep in mind.
Learning procedures
Understanding how your motorhome works, including mains hook-ups and emptying waste tanks, is essential. Incorrect waste management can lead to fines or worse, while incorrect hook-ups can be highly dangerous.
Pack wisely
The more you take, the heavier your motorhome will become. Not only will that impact fuel usage, but it also affects stopping distance and other safety measures. Additionally, we do not recommend carrying valuables, as your motorhome’s security may not be sufficient to keep them safe.
Prepare for emergencies
Carrying a portable fire extinguisher, along with a smoke detector, and first aid kit can ensure that you’re always prepared for emergencies. These safety elements are crucial, no matter where you go.
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