Motorhomes provide a convenient way of holidaying. With many of the comforts from home combined with the flexibility afforded by a self-contained vehicle, they are becoming more and more popular. So what are the things you need to know if thinking of taking the plunge with a motorhome?

Basic Design

Most motorhomes follow the same basic design of a driver\’s cab backed by an accommodation area. This back area has windows and amenities including a toilet, kitchen and beds. The size of the motorhome will determine how many berths it has. Beds are often folded into seats around a dining table during the day. Some motorhome have a forward compartment over the cab that is for sleeping, increasing the number of berths.

Licence

For most motorhomes, you ordinary car driving licence is sufficient. However, if you have a large motorhome with a weight of over 3500 kilograms, you will need a medium goods vehicle licence.

Insurance

Shop around for your insurance as many companies see motorhomes as less risky vehicles than many others on the road. Check your policy covers international travel, personal items and potentially hazardous items such as fridges.

Carriage

You are actually allowed to carry as many people as you like in the back portion of the motorhome. However, if people are not sat with seatbelts on you are liable for their safety. Most motorhomes come with a designated number of seats with seatbelts and you are advised not to exceed this number of passengers.

Payload

The payload – the weight – of your vehicle should be listed in the manufacturer\’s literature. You may need this information for bridge crossing, ferries or at border controls. Remember to account for any extra weight such as air conditioning units, as these add to the overall payload. When packing personal effects in the back compartment – food, pans and so on – try to distribute it evenly over the vehicle, taking particular care not to overload the back axle.

Toilet

Motorhomes come fitted with a chemical toilet. This means a closed system whereby waste is stored in a chemical-filled tank. You must empty you tank in designated points in caravan parks, as these facilities are able to handle the chemicals. Never empty your tank by the side of the road. You should also try to dispose of your washing up and laundry water in designated locations to avoid polluting water sources.

Driving abroad

Motorhomes are a great way of seeing foreign countries without the expense of accommodation. They also enable the motorist to access out-of-the-way locations. However, when travelling abroad you must ensure you have the correct documentation for your trip. Below is a check-list for your trip to foreign climes.

1. Passport

Every member of the family needs their own.

2. Driving licence

If you have a photo card you must also carry the paper counterpart. You may need to apply for an international driving licence if travelling outside the EU.

3. Insurance

Check your insurance covers you abroad and keeps documentation with you in case of accidents. Also carry the vehicle\’s registration papers.

Ben Greenwood is writing on behalf of North Western Caravans – Motorhome Dealers

Ben Greenwood is writing on behalf of North Western Caravans – Motorhome Dealers (http://www.northwesterncaravans.co.uk/)

Author Bio: Ben Greenwood is writing on behalf of North Western Caravans – Motorhome Dealers

Category: Travel
Keywords: motorhomes, caravans