Driving one of our motorhomes is easier than expected, you can drive them on a UK Category B licence. Although a Category B Auto licence will only allow you to drive an automatic transmission vehicle.
If you are used to driving a car, and know the differences when driving a motorhome, you’ll be fine. Don’t drive too fast and give yourself plenty of extra space. Make note of the motorhome dimensions (these are also shown in the cab), if unsure avoid low bridges and narrow roads.
Before driving the motorhome, adjust the wing mirrors until you see a quarter of the vehicle’s side. You need to see where the vehicle is when on the road and the rear corners of the motorhome when turning. As there isn’t a rear view mirror, seeing correctly through the wing mirrors is the most important.
Width
Our motorhomes are about a meter wider than the average car, check you are keeping the motorhome in lane. Watch out for the wing mirrors too, remember they are larger than the average car and can easily be knocked.
Length
As with most vehicles, when turning the back wheels will take a shorter route than the front ones. With longer vehicles like motorhomes, this can make a difference. Allow more space when turning, taking a wider turn at the beginning. Keep an eye on the rear side of the motorhome, watch for any obstacles and keep clear of the curb. If the turn is sharp first move towards the centre of the road before turning. This will allow you extra space for a wider turn.
When turning a motorhome you will have to consider how the rear will swing in the other direction. As our motorhomes aren’t much bigger than a van most roads can accommodate this. The main problem arises when there are obstacles around. The biggest cause of damage to the rear of motorhomes is when turning away from fuel pumps or gate posts. To avoid this move forward until you are sure you will not catch the obstacle before turning. Always watch the rear of the motorhome through the wing mirrors when turning.
Parking
At most campsites parking isn’t a problem, a lot will have drive on, drive off pitches. If these aren’t available reversing the motorhome shouldn’t be a problem. You will require more room for the swing of the vehicle so avoid tight spaces and reversing from narrow roads. Our motorhomes have reversing sensors to help you avoid obstacles. If you have a passenger ask them to help guide you into the space and help determine the distance behind you. Please note the reversing sensors do not allow for the distance the bike racks protrude from the vehicle.
When leaving a parking space, take into consideration how the rear of the motorhome will swing. It is always best to drive forward as much as possible first and keep checking in your wing mirrors.
Speed
The speed limit on dual carriageways for motorhomes under 3.5 tonnes is 70 mph. Vehicles over this weight must travel no more than 60 mph.
Single carriageway speed limits are 60 mph for motorhomes below 3.5 tonnes and 50 mph for vehicles above this weight.
70 mph is permitted on motorways for all motorhomes. However, if you have a trailer over 12 metres in length then the limit is 60 mph.
A speed limit of around 30 mph is usually assumed by all vehicles in built up areas and the same applies to motorhomes.
You can overtake in a motorhome if it is safe to do so and you don’t exceed the speed limit. A motorhome is also permitted to use the outside lane of the motorway for overtaking purposes, just like other vehicles.
Come and Try
If you are unsure about driving one of our motorhomes but would love to hire one please get in touch getaway@tripz.co.uk. We can arrange for you to look at the size and get the feel for driving around our depot.
To check your licence category 👉 gov.uk/view-driving-licence or they are listed on the back of your driver’s licence.
We highly recommend you read our terms and conditions before proceeding with your motorhome hire booking.