Guide to Driving Your Motorhome to France

One of the great benefits of motorhome holidays is the sheer freedom that they offer you. One summer you could be cruising the coastline of Cornwall, and the next you could be touring the very best spots in France. While it may seem daunting to cross the English Channel on four wheels, motorhoming in France is exciting and effortless.

Still looking for that dream motorhome? To make things particularly easy when setting out on your adventure abroad, why not consider shopping with Spinney for a brand-new motorhome or a second-hand motorhome that’s a little easier on your wallet? From excellent motorhomes to cutting-edge campervans and contemporary caravans, at Spinney, we do it all!

Though getting ready for your European expedition doesn’t necessarily mean purchasing an entirely new vehicle, making sure that your current motorhome is spick, span and serviced for the open road is essential. Catering to all customers, at Spinney, we offer an exemplary servicing package that ranges from a water ingress report to a full engine inspection.

But, before you explore our quality collection, make sure that you’re well-informed about motorhoming in France by reading through our detailed blog.

How to drive your motorhome to France from the UK

On the surface, there seems to be only a couple of ways to travel from the UK to France in a motorhome, but, in reality, there are several methods that suit different budgets and preferences. Travel by shuttle or boat from the UK to France using the following popular methods:

• The Dover to Calais ferry: This popular option is merely a 90-minute trip and allows you to take a break, stretch your legs and enjoy the sea views while you’re transported across the channel.
• Portsmouth to Caen ferry: Landing in Calais isn’t your only option. The Portsmouth to Caen ferry may take a little longer, but it gives you more time to relax onboard and gives you better access to the south of France.
• Poole to Cherbourg: Similarly, you can get the ferry from Poole to Cherbourg, which is, in itself, a beautiful destination.
• The Channel Tunnel:  If speed is your prerogative, this 30-minute trip on the Le Shuttle through the Channel Tunnel is ideal. Le Shuttle does have restrictions on motorhomes, and LPG-powered vehicles are not allowed, so make sure you’re clued up before choosing this option.

Or, why not consider flying?

Your motorhome will be a little bit too big to take through airport security, but if you don’t own a leisure vehicle and intend to hire one abroad, flying could be your best option. While you’re limited to coastal towns and cities when taking the shuttle or ferry, flying can make motorhoming in France truly simple. Landing exactly where you want to travel, be it Toulouse in the south or Strasbourg in the east, flying is certainly worth considering.

Laws and regulations for driving in France

Driving in France is simple, broadening your horizons on what your motorhome holiday could look like. But, driving regulations in France are a little different in France than in the UK, so there are a few things you need to know before you pack your motorhome.

• In France (and across the majority of Europe), cars, motorhomes and other automobiles are driven on the right-hand side of the road.
• You cannot use devices capable of detecting and warning about upcoming speed cameras. If caught, you will have to pay a considerable fine.
• The use of A-frames for towing is not recommended by the Department for Transport.
• In winter periods (between the start of November and the end of March), it’s compulsory to use two snow chains and four winter tires in the mountainous regions of France.
• A motorhome weighing over 3,500kg should not drive on the outside lane when driving on a three-lane motorway.
• Just like in the UK, it’s illegal to use a mobile phone while driving, but, unlike in the UK, this is more strictly enforced. Mobile phones should not be used behind the wheel of a car, even if the vehicle is stationary.
• In addition, it’s also illegal to use headphones while driving any vehicle.

What are the speed limits in France for motorhomes?

Speed limits for motorhomes differ across the whole of Europe, with France having their own set of unique standards. When motorhoming in France, carefully follow these speed limits:

• 130 km/h (80mph) on motorways.
• 110 km/h (68mph) on dual carriageways.
• 80 km/h (50mph) on normal roads.
• 50 km/h (30mph) in built-up areas.

These speed limits are more restrictive in rain or snow. In these conditions, follow these regulations.

• 110 km/h (68mph) on motorways.
• 100 km/h (62mph) on dual carriageways.
• 70 km/h (43mph) on normal roads.
• 50 km/h (30mph) in built-up areas.

What are Aires?

France is famous for its accessible motorhome network, with ‘aire de service/stationnement pour camping car’, otherwise known as ‘aires’, being the jewel in its crown. Essentially, aires are overnight parking areas found across the country, including in cities, towns and villages that allow users to briefly stop, rest and stay the night.

Some travellers choose to use aires as part of their wider motorhome holiday, stopping off on the way to their next destination, while others may opt to experience the country by going from one aire to the next. Since they’re situated all across the country, using aires gives you a truly unique way to experience the country on four wheels.

The best locations for motorhoming in France

So, you’ve made it to France, and all you want to do is indulge in some fancy cuisine. With the country teeming with excellent locations that cater to all kinds of tastes and customers, you’re certainly spoiled for choice for where to stay in France, from the dazzling heights of the Alps to the lazy rivers of the Loire Valley.

Bordeaux and the Dordogne

Explore Bergerac, Sarlat-la-Canéda and beyond across Bordeaux and the Dordogne – a trip that will take you through stunning valleys where you can tantalise your tastebuds with some of the country’s finest foods. Enjoy world-famous vineyards and medieval structures such as Château de Beynac on your travels.

Brittany

Love the sea but don’t adore the temperamental British weather? Brittany may just become your new favourite beach destination. Favoured for its ease of access, touring Brittany and the surrounding areas in your motorhome makes for a simple, relaxing break. Soak in the summer rays on the beaches of Perros-Guirec and enjoy the rich history of the nearby Celtic settlements.

The French Alps

Looking to do some mountain biking on your adventure through France? Some of the very best spots to take your motorhome in France can be found in the Alps mountain range, offering travellers breathtaking views, stunning lakes and much more. For those looking for a taste of adventure, the popular spots of Chamonix and Annecy are unmissable – just make sure your vehicle is well insulated!

The French Riviera

The French Riviera is famous throughout the world for its stylish beauty, glamorous coastline and red-roofed vistas. Ideal for couples looking for a romantic getaway, the French Riviera is best explored in a perfectly compact motorhome due to its tight roads and corners. Driving through the stunning nooks of Saint-Tropez and Antibes in the comfort of your motorhome makes for a luxurious adventure.

The Loire Valley

France has a lot of stunning landscapes, but the Loire Valley might just take the prize. Known as ‘The Garden of France’, the valley is iconic for its marvellous vineyards and serene streams and rivers. Explore the thick forests of the region in your motorhome or on your bike and visit the magnificent sights of Amboise, Chambord and the stunning Châteaux of the Loire Valley.

The best time to visit France in your motorhome

Another perk of motorhome travel is the freedom it gives users to visit a country any time of the year, from January through to December. But, of course, some months of the year will be quieter than others, allowing you to get a more peaceful retreat.

Winter: Brave enough to tackle the cold? Motorhomes can provide unrivalled access to the French Alps for a skiing (or snowboarding) getaway. For a luxurious winter getaway, you may want to consider a premium motorhome.

Spring: Before the rush of summer, enjoy the beauty of France in the springtime, just as local produce is coming into season. This may be the very best season to experience the Loire Valley.

Summer: France, and in particular the French Riviera, comes into its own in the summer months, even if this does mean an increase in footfall. Experience the true beauty of the French coastline in all its stunning glory. You could even make it simpler by investing in an automatic motorhome.

Autumn: As the tourism and summer footfall dies down, consider taking your motorhome away in the Autumn for the chance of late warm weather and gorgeous countryside colours.

Like what you hear? Contact us today to find out how we could transform how you experience the gorgeous sights of France.

Packing checklist for your French motorhome holiday

Aside from your pants, socks and sun cream, there are a few motorhome essentials that you’ll want to pack with you in your glovebox, boot or elsewhere. Before you head out on your trip, check these things off your list.

• Angle morts or blind spot stickers (if your motorhome is over 3,500kg in weight).
• ‘UK’ sticker (This is mandatory for UK-registered vehicles when driving in France).
• Crit’Air stickers – if you plan on driving through low-emission zones (LEZ).
• Four winter tires or two snow chains (if you intend to travel through the Alps, Massif Central, Jura, Pyrenees, and Vosges regions between November 1st and March 31st).
• Reflective jackets and a warning triangle (in case of breakdown).
• Camping Card International (CCI). This isn’t essential, but it acts as a passport of sorts for all campers, making booking far easier and cheaper.
• Several plug adapters – remember French plugs aren’t the same as the ones here in the UK!
• A breathalyser. It used to be a law that every driver carry a breathalyser, and although this is no longer enforced, keeping one in your glovebox wouldn’t hurt. After all, the drink driver limit is far lower in France than in the UK.

It’s also worth noting the following:

• Bringing your beloved pet into the country shouldn’t be a problem, but just make sure they meet the entry requirements, including vaccinations and electronic tagging.
• It is forbidden to take meat, milk or any products containing these ingredients into France, though there are exemptions such as powdered milk and baby food.
• Before you head off, a thorough motorhome servicing is highly recommended to avoid any issues on the road.

Remember these key French terms for motorhome travel

Duolingo, we are not, but we do think it’s worth noting down these key phrases that might just help you out when motorhoming in France.

• Aires: Free or low-cost overnight parking areas.
• Branchement électrique: Electrical hookup point.
• Eau potable: Clean drinking water.
• Emplacement: The French term for a camping pitch.
• Essence: Petrol.
• Euro Relais or Flot Bleu: Common service point brands in France that will provide you with easy access to water, electricity and waste disposal.
• Gazole: Diesel.
• Stationnement interdit: No parking.
• Vidange eau noire: Waste water.

Visit Spinney to get prepared for your trip to France!

Now that you’ve got all the information you need for your trip to France, it’s time to contact Spinney to see how we can help you get better prepared! Whether you’re looking to invest in a brand new motorhome from a leading brand like Swift, Auto-Trail or Bailey, or are simply looking for a service to make sure your vehicle is running smoothly, at Spinney we can do it all.

Simply visit any of our branches across North Wales, Staffordshire, Warwickshire, Cheshire or Northamptonshire and we’ll be happy to give you a tour of the gorgeous motorhomes we have for sale. Don’t forget to also browse our range of accessories that will allow you to buy all your kit off the checklist, such as stickers, high-viz jackets and even a spectacular new awning.

Proud to be a family business with over 50 years of industry experience, at Spinney, we hold the needs of our customers paramount, ensuring our service is top class. We’re not just blowing hot air either. If you need evidence of our exemplary customer service, just explore our over 1000 5-star reviews on Trustpilot.