How to Drive Motorhomes Like a Pro

The title of this edition of our blog does slightly suggest that by the end of it you’ll be the leisure vehicle equivalent of Lewis Hamilton, doesn’t it? Don’t worry, though. There’s no danger of having to squeeze into a bodysuit, stick on a helmet and go through an intense training programme just before you drive away from your motorhome dealership! Though there is some practical advice here, this is not an especially dry instalment of our blog.

What is going to happen, though, is that by the time you’ve finished reading you’ll have been loaded up with a couple of practical / organisational tips you can use when you’re a motorhomes beginner (and from that point onwards), plus some ‘spiritual guidance’. These tips, things to be aware of and encouragements to enjoy, will make sure you feel comfortable and confident out on the road in your motorhome.

The Size of Your Motorhome

This is really important, perhaps even the most important factor. Motorhomes are available at various sizes, from compact and cosy campers right up to large and luxurious models – and this size factor will have a direct influence over how you will find the driveability. Specifically, the size of the vehicle has a direct bearing on how it handles and how easy it is to manoeuvre. This can be crucial to your confidence behind the wheel. Imagine having to navigate through the unknown or difficult streets of a town or village on your holiday in a vehicle which you don’t feel is quite within your capabilities.

Ultimately, when you are deciding which motorhome to buy, it makes sense to go for something appropriate, even if it is below your budget. Don’t just opt for a particular model because you have the cash to buy it, as this can prove to be a bit of a false economy and you may in fact be ‘buying problems’ for yourself. Make sure that the motorhome you choose is the perfect sweet spot between your practical and aesthetic needs and your actual capabilities.

Speed Limits

It’s important to be aware of your responsibility to adhere to the Highway Code – and that includes the speed limits of various types of road and, in fact, types of vehicle. The speed limit on UK roads can vary due to the weight of your vehicle. Those vehicles with an unladen weight of below 3,050kg have the same speed limits as a ‘normal’ car, but those with a weight of above 3,050kg are different.

In built-up areas the speed limit for motorhomes in each weight class is the same as for a car – 30mph. On single carriageways where the limit is 60mph for motorhomes below 3,050kg, it is 50mph for those above. On dual carriageways the speed limit is 70mph for motorhomes below 3,050kg and 60mph for those above. The speed limit on motorways is 70mph across the board for motorhomes.

Smaller but No Less Important Tips!

1. Parking

Park with the front of your van facing the way you will be going when you set off again. Although the act of reversing a van is not the most difficult thing to do when you have got the hang of it, you simply cannot account for the behaviour of pedestrians. They are likely to walk behind you with little regard for what you are doing, or the potential danger that they are putting themselves in by doing so.

2. Mirrors

Some people, when they have been driving a car for many years, have tended to let their use of mirrors decline. They may still drive relatively safely, or at the least feel they do, but this slight complacency means that their general road awareness is going to be lower. Rise above this by using your mirrors continuously.

3. Politeness

Drive with consideration for other road users. Although you would hope that other people on the road at the same time as you in your motorhome will offer it, you must too. Show respect and courtesy in the way that you drive and in the way that you do all other things connected to your motorhome life, particularly parking.

Driving your motorhome like a pro isn’t just about the practical tips we’ve mentioned above (and there are many more we could have mentioned, too). There is also a lot of ‘attitude’ and ‘environment’ involved. We used the word ‘spiritual’ earlier in this blog, and what we meant by that was the amount of your personality you inject into the motorhome environment – not just the physical things you put in there, but the whole vibe you create for your life on the road and the way you approach the task of the driving itself. Don’t forget that this is your home from home and any time spent in it is meant to be time enjoyed, but it’s also a large vehicle which has to be carefully handled on the road.

Motorhomes at Spinney

Here at Spinney, a motorhome dealer with a long history and a vast amount of experience, we are very happy to be able to offer some amazing vehicles for you to choose from – and we’re very proud to provide top quality customer service. If you have any queries or require any further assistance, simply get in touch and ask – a member of our team will be more than happy to help!