The holidays are approaching and you have rented a motorhome to go with family or friends to go for a walk. This mode of transport fascinates you, because you think you will find a little freedom and you are right, only you have never driven a motorhome in your life and want to test one of them. Once you've spent a week or two aboard your 'rolling house' you'll know for sure if you're going to buy one next or if you're going back to your usual self-catering or family vacation. So here we will see how to drive a motorhome for the first time and what good gear practices you need to acquire.
The first thing you need to do before you leave is to adapt to the rental motorhome. At first, you will be impressed by its size , but don't panic, it's normal and you get used to it very quickly. If you drive a car, it's the same driving except that the vehicle gauge exchange. So you'll have to use the mirrors . We advise you to practice doing a few maneuvers in a car park, for example, before leaving. If you are accompanied, do not hesitate to be guided. So think about the height, width and length of the motorhome. You also need to consider the overhang which corresponds to the length of the structure protruding from your rear wheels. Indeed, the longer the vehicle, the more you will have to take it into account to approach the turns.
You are going on an adventure with your new motorhome of course, but adventure does not necessarily mean doing anything. So you are going to organize your trip. Start by setting up your route . To help you, you will be able to consult applications like park4night or Caramaps . Above, you will find valuable information such as:
You can build your itinerary as a family where everyone can give their point of view. Of course, as you travel, you can modify it at each stage. Also remember to consult the motorhome magazines which show you many possible routes if you run out of ideas.
Many motorhome rental companies provide you with the essential accessories for your trip, however, it is best to check that you have them before you leave. If this is not the case, you must have:
Note :you must also distribute your loads in the vehicle. The heaviest items should go downstairs. You should also put as much in the front as in the back. Finally, check all the closet closures before starting so that you don't have a drawer that opens at the first turn approached.
If you are going in the middle of July or August, it is better to know where you are going to spend the night in advance, because you are not alone, far from it and some places are expensive. Also remember to stop early enough, because after 5 p.m. everyone wants to park at the same time. If you want to sleep in peace, flee the overcrowding of places that are too touristy. It is better to go 10 km more and find yourself in a place where you will have a good night's sleep. If you choose a motorhome area , be aware that most of them are equipped with gray water drains (shower and dishes) and black (WC). So you can empty and refill your water whenever you need it. In this regard, never wait until the last moment. If you are 2, it is necessary to count filling every 3 days and at 4, every other day. You can still stop at producers and farmers part of a motorhome network. So, not only will you sleep in a rural place, but you can also taste the products of your hosts, and even buy some.
Good to know :if you stop in a permitted place for the night such as a car park, be aware that you are not at a campsite and that it is then forbidden to take out your chairs, your table or open your blind.
As you will have understood, driving in a motorhome is easy provided you pay attention to the size of your vehicle. Also pay attention to the heights of tunnels and parking gates . Follow the directions carefully before embarking on a galley. So do not follow your GPS blindly, because it does not know the dimensions of the vehicle (unless you have a GPS for trucks). Take your turns very wide so as not to rub. Watch out for branches on back roads, overtake the bikes far enough and you'll be fine. In just a few days, you will be used to it.
respect for the environment, people that you meet or other motorhome owners is essential for a good trip. First of all, always drain in an area with the structure for gray and black water. Never do your oil changes in the middle of nature. It is prohibited and polluting . When you arrive at a campsite or set up area, say hello and don't make too much noise. Try not to stick too close to other vehicles. Conducting you like this, you will find friendly, community-minded people who are always ready to help you when needed. You will also notice that when you pass a motorhome, its driver gives you a small gesture with his hand. Answer him, because he just says hello to you.
If you are traveling to Corsica, for example, be aware that the roads are very narrow. Always keep to your right. When you meet other vehicles, you will even have to stop to let them pass. Fold your mirrors at the risk of having them broken.
If you stop for a picnic, always pick up your trash , dispose of them in appropriate bins and always be courteous.
Avoid spending the night alone in a place not mentioned on guides. To start your adventure, it is better to stop in structures designed for motorhomes.
Never spread out over a site, especially if it is an area, because think that you are not alone and that others will arrive after you to find a place.
When you are driving in the mountains and there is a line of cars behind you, stop as soon as you can to let them pass . Not everyone is on vacation, think about it.
By following these tips, you will have a wonderful stay with family or friends. This first experience will leave you with lasting memories and above all you will be ready to acquire a motorhome of your own to go on your next vacation.
