Essential guidance for novice motorhome drivers

For those embarking on their first motorhome adventure or seasoned motorcaravanners, understanding the unique characteristics of driving a motorhome is crucial for a safe and enjoyable journey. Here are some essential tips to help you navigate the road with confidence.

Firstly, it's essential to be aware of the Maximum Technically Permitted Laden Mass (MTPLM) of your motorhome. If the MTPLM falls between 3,501 kg and 7,500 kg, Group C1 is required on your driving licence. Anyone who has passed their car driving test in the UK can drive any motorhome up to 3,500kg MTPLM[1].

Safety is paramount when driving a motorhome, and one of the most important factors to consider is braking distance. Motorhomes are heavier and take longer to stop compared to regular cars, so it's crucial to allow for longer braking distances. When descending hills or driving downhill, start at a slower speed and use the appropriate lower gear to reduce brake use and avoid overheating brakes[2][3].

Another safety consideration is maintaining lane centering and position. Motorhomes are wider, so it's crucial to stay centered within your lane. Driving in the lane closest to the shoulder is recommended, as it allows you to drift slightly right without encroaching into traffic[1].

Increasing following distance and driving at a steady pace are also essential for safety. Leave extra space between your motorhome and the vehicles ahead to compensate for longer stopping distances. Driving slower not only enhances safety but can also improve fuel economy[5].

Practicing difficult driving scenarios such as mountain passes or steep declines in low-traffic areas beforehand can help build confidence and safer handling[3]. Familiarising yourself with modern braking and transmission systems can also improve your ability to manage speed on descents safely[2].

When parking, it's always a good idea to have someone outside to assist with pulling into parking spots or campsites. Even experienced drivers use spotters to judge distances and alignment better, ensuring safer parking maneuvers[1].

When changing lanes, it's essential to check mirrors carefully, use turn signals, and double-check before changing lanes to ensure no blind spots are missed[5]. It's also advised that all motorhomes should be fitted with a camera on the back for reversing[4].

When negotiating a 'T'-junction of single carriageways, it might be concerning at first, but will quickly become second nature to cross the central white line of the road to be joined[6]. When cornering, apply the brakes a good distance from the corner so that the motorhome is in equilibrium when changing direction. Approach speed should be slower than that in a car[7].

When driving a motorhome on an exposed stretch of motorway or when crossing a long bridge, it may be susceptible to being buffeted by high winds. The way around this is by following the 'Rule of Ten' - if it's being affected, start to gradually reduce your speed by 10mph[8]. Motorhomes are slower to accelerate than cars, so wait for a large gap before joining traffic and don't "barge-in." A longer wheelbase also means don't cut corners and risk mounting the kerb[9].

Before embarking on your journey, it's recommended to read the Highway Code and complete a pre-departure checklist. This checklist may include ensuring windows & rooflights are locked, everything is stowed securely, the hook-up lead is stowed, gas is turned off, the fridge door is locked, the control panel is checked, a walk around/look underneath is done, the wind-out awning is retracted, bikes are secure on the rack, exterior-access locker doors are secure, the elevating-roof is lowered and secured, and a sticker showing the vehicle's height and width is applied to the reverse side of the sun visor[10].

The Caravan and Motorhome Club, Camping and Caravanning Club, and some driving schools offer motorhome maneuvering tuition courses for those wanting to improve their driving skills[11]. Older drivers should retain their entitlement by successfully passing a medical[12].

Overall, motorhome driving can be manageable and enjoyable with the right preparation, mindful driving habits, and respect for the vehicle’s unique characteristics[5]. Whether a novice or seasoned driver, these tips help ensure safety and a relaxed journey.

[1] https://www.gov.uk/driving-a-large-vehicle/the-driving-test [2] https://www.gov.uk/driving-a-large-vehicle/the-driving-test/braking [3] https://www.gov.uk/driving-a-large-vehicle/the-driving-test/downhill-driving [4] https://www.gov.uk/driving-a-large-vehicle/the-driving-test/reversing [5] https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/motorhome-tips/beginners-guide-to-motorhome-driving [6] https://www.gov.uk/driving-a-large-vehicle/rules-about-overtaking-and-reversing/junctions-and-roundabouts [7] https://www.gov.uk/driving-a-large-vehicle/rules-about-overtaking-and-reversing/cornering [8] https://www.gov.uk/driving-a-large-vehicle/rules-about-overtaking-and-reversing/high-winds [9] https://www.gov.uk/driving-a-large-vehicle/rules-about-overtaking-and-reversing/turning [10] https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/motorhome-tips/pre-departure-checklist [11] https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/learn/motorhome-training [12] https://www.gov.uk/apply-for-a-driving-licence/older-drivers

For motorhome enthusiasts, it's essential to familiarize oneself with the Maximum Technically Permitted Laden Mass (MTPLM) of the motorhome to determine the required driving license group.
Motorhomes have longer braking distances compared to regular cars, so drivers must allow for extra stopping distance, especially when descending hills or driving downhill.
When parking a motorhome, having someone outside to assist can help ensure safer maneuvering and correct alignment.
It's crucial for motorhome drivers to check their mirrors carefully, use turn signals, and double-check for blind spots before changing lanes.
Driving a motorhome can be made easier with practice, particularly in challenging scenarios such as mountain passes or steep declines in low-traffic areas.
Motorhome drivers should consider reading the Highway Code. Additionally, joining motorhome maneuvering tuition courses or driving schools, such as those offered by the Caravan and Motorhome Club or the Camping and Caravanning Club, can be very helpful for improving driving skills.