Essential Pre-Holiday Checks for Motorhome Owners
Essential pre-holiday checks for motorhome owners can make the difference between a relaxed departure and a first day spent searching for a garage, a missing cable or the document you were certain was in the glovebox.
A motorhome gives you plenty of freedom, but needs a little more preparation than an ordinary car journey. You are checking both a vehicle and a small living space, so it can help to work through everything methodically rather than relying on memory the night before.
- Check the paperwork first
You may want to begin with the things that could stop the trip before it starts. Check that the tax, MOT (where required) and insurance for your motorhome is all up to date. It is also worth confirming that your driving licence covers the vehicle, particularly if you have changed motorhome or are driving a larger model than usual.
For an overseas trip, allow extra time to check the rules for every country on your route. You may need proof of insurance, breakdown cover details, travel documents, vehicle permits and country-specific safety equipment. Valid motorhome insurance is essential in the EU – at Park Home Assist we offer 180 days as standard.
Requirements can differ elsewhere so ‘better safe than sorry’ is probably the best rule. You can find information on the UK government website.
- Essential pre-holiday motorhome checks: tyres
Due to only occasional use, motorhome tyres may cover fewer miles than car tyres, but long periods standing still can bring their own problems. Check the pressures when the tyres are cold, using the manufacturer’s figures for the load you expect to carry. Look for cracking, bulges, embedded objects and uneven wear, remembering to check the spare if you have one.
For many motorhomes, the legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre and around its full circumference. Remember, this is the minimum depth. Don’t wait until the tread reaches the limit, especially before a long journey as this could invalidate your insurance. The standard can vary with vehicle type and weight, so check what applies to your motorhome.
- Look under the bonnet
Oil, coolant and screenwash are simple checks, but they are easily forgotten when most of your attention is on packing. If a warning light has appeared recently or you have noticed an unfamiliar noise, it’s sensible to investigate before loading up.
A professional service could be worthwhile if the motorhome has been standing for several months. At home, you can also check the lights, indicators, wipers, mirrors, number plates and horn. A short drive before the holiday may reveal a problem that is much easier to solve locally than on the road.
- Essential pre-holiday motorhome checks: living equipment
The habitation area deserves its own inspection. Test the water pump, taps, toilet, fridge, cooker, heating and interior lights. Check the leisure battery charge and make sure your hook-up cable, hose, adaptors and levelling ramps are present and usable.
Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms should be tested, while gas cylinders and connections should be checked for obvious damage. For any concern about a gas appliance you may want to contact a suitably qualified professional.
- Watch the weight
Motorhomes have a maximum authorised mass, which includes the vehicle, passengers, fuel, water, luggage and everything else you carry. Tools, outdoor furniture, food, bikes and a full water tank can quickly use up the available payload.
Check the vehicle’s weight plate and think carefully about what really needs to come. A public weighbridge can provide reassurance if you are unsure. Heavy items are generally better stored low down and securely, with cupboards, drawers, windows, rooflights and the fridge properly fastened before moving off.
- Check your insurance fits the journey
Check that your motorhome insurance it suitable for both the vehicle and the journey – it is worth checking rather than assuming. Consider the countries you will visit, the length of the trip, who will be driving and the value of the belongings you are taking.
At Park Home Assist, our motorhome insurance can be tailored to different vehicles and patterns of use, with features including cover for personal belongings, windscreens and windows and emergency accommodation, subject to the policy terms and conditions. If your circumstances have changed since renewal, a quick conversation with us before departure could prevent an unwelcome surprise later. And of course, our award-winning team is there to help you get the insurance cover that fits your circumstances.
- Finish with a walk around
On departure day, a final slow circuit can catch the little things: a cable still connected, a step left out, a rooflight open or a levelling ramp forgotten beneath a wheel. Check that everyone is belted in, loose objects are secured and your route has no height or width restrictions your motorhome cannot comfortably manage.
Then you can set off knowing the preparation has been done. You may still forget the teabags, of course, who hasn’t?
Please note that all insurance cover is subject to acceptance of terms and conditions.
This is a marketing article from Park Home Assist, multi award-winning providers of park home insurance, mobile home insurance, insurance for static caravans, insurance for holiday homes and holiday lodges, as well as boat insurance and touring caravan insurance. If you have any questions about your insurance, then please call our office on 01604 946 796 and one of our insurance advisers will be happy to help.
Published – 24/07/26
