Blog

Today I'm sharing the tips for traveling in a motorhome for the first time that I wish I'd had on my first trip. This is a new article in our Motorhome Travel Guide on our blog.

Hello friend, you are going to travel by motorhome for the first time! Are you ready to embark on an exciting motorhome adventure?

I can't wait to share with you my top 10 tips to make your first trip a complete success! So get ready for a dose of useful information, humor (to the extent that there is any), and first-hand experience.

Let's go there!

Oh, and if you'd like to see which routes we recommend for getting started in the world of motorhoming, here's our article "Motorhome in beginner mode: The top 4 motorhome routes for beginners and the flop routes!".

About us

1st tip: Know the difference between parking, staying overnight and camping with a motorhome or camper and avoid fines

Before embarking on your motorhome adventure, it's important to understand some key terminology that is regulated by different laws . Also, keep in mind that the laws vary from country to country.

Did you know that parking, overnight stays, and camping are not synonymous in the world of motorhomes? We explained it in this specific article about parking, overnight stays, and camping in motorhomes , but here's a summary for you today.

Concepts of parking versus staying overnight versus camping

Parking simply means placing your vehicle in a permitted location (where there are no "No Motorhomes" signs and it doesn't extend beyond the marked lines), while overnighting involves spending the night in a location without setting up camping equipment , such as tables and chairs . On the other hand, camping involves setting up camp completely, with all necessary equipment extending beyond the vehicle's perimeter (awning, tables, chairs, clothesline, etc.).

Applicable standards

The key here is to make sure you know and respect the regulations of each country and the local ones, since there are things regulated at the state level but many others at the municipal level for each municipality.

So do your research before choosing where to park, stay overnight, or camp , and enjoy your trip worry-free.

We do not want you to get an unpleasant surprise with a fine for camping in an unauthorized place, which in Spain I remind you is prohibited in any public place.

For example, in Spain, you can only camp in private campsites or motorhome areas, and only in designated public camping areas that are explicitly marked . Therefore, do not set up a table, chairs, or awning unless you are in a campsite or on private land.

Finally, remember that each country has its own regulations , and in Europe, there's a wide range of rules. Some countries, like Finland, allow you to camp freely; others, like Spain or France, allow you to spend the night (without camping) in any parking lot that isn't prohibited; and still others, like the Netherlands or Slovenia, completely prohibit overnight parking with hefty fines. In short, do your research to avoid surprises.

2nd tip: Choose the motorhome or camper according to the needs of your trip and family

Choosing the right motorhome is crucial to your travel experience . There are different types and sizes of motorhomes , so be sure to consider your family's needs and the type of trip you want to take.

If you're an adventurous family with children , look for a motorhome with bunk beds or extra beds so everyone can rest comfortably and it's spacious enough so you don't feel cramped on the road.

If you're a couple and prefer a more compact and agile experience , a campervan might be the perfect choice to make driving easier. However, if you want a shower and toilet, remember that a larger campervan is better; it's a bit bigger but offers comfort you'll appreciate during your trip.

Remember that comfort and functionality are key ; nobody wants to feel cramped on a long trip!

TIP: If you don't have a motorhome or campervan but want to rent one and try this type of travel, remember that the cheapest option with the best experiences is to rent from private individuals through a platform like Airbnb, but for motorhomes and campers.

3º plan your route well, in a motorhome for a trip 10 not everything is improvisation. Choose correct places to sleep and camp in a motorhome

While we love the thrill of spontaneity, planning your RV route can make all the difference between a terrible trip, a mediocre one, and a spectacular one. Research the destinations you want to visit and make sure there are designated RV areas or suitable campsites in those locations. Check that the area isn't known for RV thefts and ensure you won't receive any fines.

Look for routes designed for motorhomes, as they will take you through impressive landscapes and guarantee good driving and places to stay overnight without problems. Also, there are many useful blogs and websites to help you find the best places to park and camp, but it's a tidal wave I know I know. So plan ahead and make sure you have an unforgettable travel experience.

4º In a motorhome, do not run: one of the basic tips for traveling in a motorhome for the first time

Hey buddy, here's a tip you can't ignore! When you're driving a motorhome, remember you 're not driving a sports car . Don't get too carried away and maintain a safe, steady speed . Motorhomes are bigger and heavier than regular cars, so they need more time to brake and maneuver . Don't get overconfident and drive carefully.

Also, remember that you're transporting a house with you , containing all your belongings and encased in fiberglass. It's practically a shoebox... So you don't want things flying around and creating a chaotic scene from "House of Horrors" while you're driving. Take it easy, enjoy the scenery, and remember that the journey is part of the adventure.

Our advice is that if you can run at a maximum of 120 never go over 110 and normally go to 100. This is how lifelong motorhomes go, at least the cautious ones with common sense.

5º Before leaving en route make sure to close everything well and that nothing flies out

Before starting the engine and hitting the road, take a few minutes to check that everything is in order in your home on wheels . Make sure the cupboards are securely closed , doors, skylights (these are very easy to forget) and windows are locked, and that nothing is loose that could fall off during the trip.

You don't want a pot flying off and landing on your head while driving.

Also, don't forget to remove the wheel chocks holding the campervan in place when it's parked. Make sure everything is secure and ready for your adventure before you set off. The last thing you need is a rolling wreck in the middle of the road!

It's also important to turn off the gas before starting the engine. However, this depends on whether you have the anti-shock device.

Ultimately, it guarantees your safety. You can learn more about safety considerations for motorhomes in this article we wrote.

6th Eye with the two Achilles heels of motorhomes: the front and the rear

Here's one of the most important tips for first-time motorhome travelers to avoid unpleasant surprises. Motorhomes have two vulnerable points : the upper front and the rear. Both can fall victim to unexpected encounters with trees, bushes, and steep slopes.

Avoid parking your motorhome in narrow spaces where tree branches could damage the roof and skylights . Also, be careful when reversing, as the rear end can scrape the ground on steep inclines . Keep your eyes peeled and use your driving skills to avoid accidents involving vegetation and rough terrain.

For this, a tip: the co-pilot always gets out, watches and gives directions before maneuvering the vehicle.

7º Never pour the water in a place not enabled for motorhomes and always have the tanks ready

Resource management is key on a motorhome trip. Before setting off, make sure your fresh water tank is full and your grey water tank and chemical toilet are empty . You'll need clean water for cooking, washing, and using the toilet, so make sure you have enough for your trip; you never know if it might take you a while to find a designated water filling and emptying station.

When it comes to waste, remember never to empty grey water or chemical toilet contents in places not specifically designated for motorhomes . Always look for designated motorhome disposal points, whether at motorway rest areas, campsites, or motorhome service areas.

Respecting the environment and local rules is essential to preserving the beautiful places we visit and to allowing us to continue traveling in this way.

8º Say hello to the wheel and always help

When you're on the road, motorhome enthusiasts are a big community . So don't hesitate to greet your fellow travelers with a friendly wave. A simple greeting can brighten someone's day and create a positive atmosphere on the road. Our code of courtesy is fundamental, just like that of good motorcyclists.

Also, if you see another motorhome traveler in trouble , don't hesitate to offer your help! Whether they need a hand with a minor repair or simply directions to their destination, we'll be happy to assist. Remember, we're all in this exciting journey together, so let's support each other and strengthen the bonds within the motorhome community, just as we've been doing for years and years. It's something truly special about this community.

9º Be responsible with the environment, nature and population that you visit

One of the fundamental principles of responsible motorhome travel and our code of ethics is to leave things as we found them . Be responsible towards the environment, nature, and the communities you visit. Respect local rules, don't litter, and avoid damaging the natural environment.

Remember that we are guests in the places we visit, and it is our duty to preserve them for future generations and not disturb the locals. Put yourself in their shoes, empathize, and don't do anything you wouldn't want someone to do in front of your house.

Enjoy the beauty of nature, but make sure you don't leave any negative footprints behind you. Together, we can make the world a better place while enjoying our motorhome adventures.

10º Less is more in a motorhome or camper

When it comes to packing for your campervan trip, remember the motto "less is more." While it may be tempting to bring everything you think you might need, keep in mind that your vehicle already has considerable weight.

Opt for the essentials and avoid carrying unnecessary items . Remember that traveling in a motorhome is about enjoying freedom and flexibility, and having a clear space will make your experience much more comfortable. So leave behind those items you won't use and focus on enjoying the experience to the fullest.

And there you have it, our 10 tips for traveling in a motorhome for the first time! We'd certainly give you more, but for now, these are the basics, and you'll always find more specific advice in our motorhome travel guide. I hope you found them helpful and that they help you have an unforgettable trip.

Remember, planning, caution, and fun are key . So get ready, friend, to embark on this exciting motorhome adventure! Enjoy the freedom of the open road, the breathtaking scenery, and the company of your family. Always remember to drive carefully, obey the rules, and take care of the environment around you.

Have an incredible trip and full of unforgettable moments in your first motorhome experience! And don't forget to share your stories and tips with other motorhome adventurers below in the comments below. The road awaits you!