Tips for Driving a Motorhome Confidently

Driving a motorhome can be a little overwhelming if it’s your first go at it, thanks to all the extra information you need to keep in mind. After all, a motorhome is much different to your family car! With considerations such as weight restrictions, laws on driving abroad and keeping your motorhome in tip top condition, it can feel like you’ve got a lot on your hands. However, once you’ve got to grips with the basics, you’ll soon realise that buying a motorhome is one of the best things you ever did!

An effortless and comfortable way to see new destinations and travel the country, a motorhome is an investment for your family that you’ll hopefully enjoy for years to come. To enjoy it to its fullest, you need to learn to drive it confidently and ensure you’re relaxed every time you sit in the driver’s seat! With that in mind, let Premier Motorhomes give you a helping hand.

Legal requirements to drive a motorhome

You should check your driving license before driving a motorhome as it may have limitations as to what vehicles you can legally drive. If you took your driving test before January 1997, you are automatically allowed to drive category C1 vehicles; this includes vehicles up to 7500kg. This incorporates most motorhome models.

If you took your driving test after January 1997, you will have a standard driving license that only allows you to drive category B and B1 vehicles. Luckily, modern motorhomes are often built with a maximum weight of 3500kg, which comes under category B.

In other words, if you want to drive a larger motorhome then you will be required to take an extra driving test to drive category C1 vehicles.

When you turn 70, you’ll need to renew your driving license; when you do this, you might lose your category C1 entitlement. Avoid this happening by speaking to your GP.

Driving a motorhome

If you’ve dreamt of owning a motorhome for years but you’re just not sure if you could drive one, you no longer need to worry. While it is a rather daunting vehicle to drive and very different to a car, it’s certainly not impossible! You may be surprised at how quickly you get the hang of it; all you need to do is remember a few important tips.

Driving a motorhome requires a little more time to manoeuvre than other vehicles; things like accelerating and braking will take longer to achieve. The size of your motorhome itself should also come into consideration. The length of the vehicle means that corners should be taken widely, otherwise you risk catching the back of your motorhome on the kerb. Overtaking should also be done extremely carefully, especially if there are cyclists or horses involved.

Speed restrictions are also in place for motorhomes, and it will depend on the weight and class of the vehicle. You can check the legal speed limits for your vehicle online.

The most important consideration when driving your motorhome is to be aware of its dimensions, particularly when approaching low bridges or even narrow roads. Many drivers will keep a note of the dimensions on their dashboard.

So, now that you understand a little more about driving a motorhome, what are you waiting for?