Tips for a Smooth Motorhome Holiday
If you’re planning a trip on four wheels, you’ll love these tips for a smooth motorhome holiday – covering everything from route planning to insurance peace of mind. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned explorer, there’s always something to learn before you hit the road.
Motorhome holidays offer a wonderful sense of freedom. You’re not bound by hotel check-ins or fixed itineraries, and every morning brings a new view. But to keep things running smoothly, it’s worth preparing properly. Here are some essential tips to help you make the most of your adventure.
- Plan – but leave room for spontaneity
It’s a great idea to plan your route before setting off. Look into campsites, motorhome parks, and wild camping spots (if allowed), and check road conditions, especially in remote or mountainous areas. Apps like Park4Night or Campercontact can help you find spots with the facilities you need.
That said, don’t over-plan. One of the joys of motorhoming is the freedom to change your mind. Leave gaps in your itinerary for those unexpected gems you stumble across along the way.
- Pack smart – less is more
Motorhomes aren’t massive, even the roomy ones. So pack light and think multi-purpose. Clothes that can layer, collapsible kitchen gear, and a compact tool kit are all good choices. You’ll also want to bring levelling ramps, a hose pipe with multiple tap fittings, a 25m electric hook-up cable, and chemical toilet supplies.
Don’t forget entertainment for rainy days – board games, books, or downloaded films (Wi-Fi can be patchy). And remember: every item adds weight, so pack only what you need.
- Test drive and trial run
If it’s your first motorhome holiday or you’re trying out a new vehicle, do a short test run beforehand. It’ll help you get to grips with the controls, parking, setting up, and even making a cuppa without knocking everything over.
A weekend away close to home is ideal – you’ll soon spot anything you’ve forgotten or packed unnecessarily.
- Be campsite-savvy
Every site has its own rules and etiquette. When you arrive, check in properly and ask about quiet hours, waste disposal, and facilities. Be considerate of your neighbours – keep noise down in the evenings and avoid blocking views or access.
Try to arrive before dark to make parking and setting up easier. Trust us – setting up a motorhome in pitch black with tired passengers is not fun.
- Stay powered and connected
Make sure you know how to use your leisure battery and how long it will last off-grid. A solar panel can be a game-changer for longer trips. Bring a power bank or two for phones and tablets.
If you need internet, consider a mobile hotspot device with a decent data plan, or a SIM card dedicated to travel. Many campsites offer Wi-Fi, but it’s not always reliable.
- Insurance tips from Park Home Assist
Now for something absolutely vital – insurance. Your motorhome isn’t just a vehicle; it’s your home on wheels. Getting the right insurance cover is essential, and that’s where Park Home Assist comes in.
As a specialist in leisure insurance, Park Home Assist offers flexible and comprehensive motorhome insurance, designed for people like you. Here’s what we think makes our cover stand out:
- Tailored policies: Whether your motorhome is brand new or a seasoned traveller, the policy can be tailored to suit your needs and usage.
- European cover: Planning to explore beyond the UK? Their policies include up to 240 days’ European cover.
- Contents and personal belongings: Your clothes, gadgets, and holiday gear are protected as part of the package.
- Windscreen and window cover: Chips and cracks happen – no need to stress with cover included.
- Emergency accommodation: If your motorhome becomes uninhabitable during your trip, temporary accommodation costs are covered.
- Excellent customer service: With over 19 years of experience and thousands of happy customers, Park Home Assist’s team is known for being helpful, friendly, and efficient when you need us most.
Visit parkhomeassist.co.uk or call us directly for a quote or to chat through your cover needs. It’s better to be fully informed and properly insured before your wheels start turning.
- Be eco-conscious
Motorhoming is brilliant for connecting with nature, so do your bit to protect it. Use eco-friendly cleaning products, recycle where you can, and never dump waste in unauthorised places. Follow the “leave no trace” principle wherever you park up.
You can also look into carbon offsetting your journey or using fuel-efficient driving techniques to reduce your environmental impact.
- Know the rules of the road
Driving a motorhome is different to a car – you’re taller, longer, and heavier. Watch for height restrictions, especially in car parks and under bridges. Brush up on speed limits for motorhomes, which differ from standard vehicles.
If you’re heading abroad, research driving laws in each country – things like tolls, vignettes, safety kits, and alcohol limits vary widely across Europe.
- Keep safety first
Always carry a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, torch, warning triangle, and spare fuses. Make sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working.
At night, lock up securely and keep valuables out of sight. If you’re wild camping, trust your instincts – if somewhere doesn’t feel right, move on.
- Enjoy the journey
Lastly – relax! Things might go wrong. You might take a wrong turn, forget the teabags, or get caught in a sudden downpour. That’s all part of the fun. Motorhome holidays are about the experience, the views, the laughs, and the stories you’ll tell later.
With a bit of prep and the right insurance behind you, you’ll be free to enjoy every moment of your motorhome holiday.
Ready to hit the road? Don’t forget to visit parkhomeassist.co.uk to get a quote or find out more about their trusted motorhome insurance options. Happy travels!
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 – 11/07/25
