Motorhome Tyre Pressure & Weight Management

Setting the correct tyre pressures in your motorhome is not as straightforward as it is for your car. In a car, manufacturers calculate weight based on passengers and a standard payload—variation is minimal, and overloading is difficult.

With a motorhome, however, it is a different story. You are managing a large vehicle with a garage, bike racks, and an array of accessories you’ve bolted on. Because every owner packs differently, understanding your weight and your tyre pressure is critical for safety and legality.

The Weight and Payload Reality

Motorhome payloads are often tight, and it is very easy to exceed them. Modern motorhomes are heavier than their predecessors due to:

• Standard equipment: Electric flush toilets, ovens, and large water tanks.

• Safety & Legislation: Crash structures and emissions laws (like AdBlue tanks) have made base vehicles, such as the Fiat Ducato, physically larger and heavier.

• Add-ons: Awning, habitation air conditioning, and scooter racks.

The 3500kg Limit

The 3500kg Maximum Technically Permissible Laden Mass (MTPLM) is a major constraint. Exceeding this requires the C1 category on your driving licence. For drivers over 70, this involves medicals and renewal every three years. If you passed your test after January 1, 1997, you likely do not have C1, making the 3500kg limit a critical balancing act for manufacturers.

The Legal Responsibility

As the driver, it is your responsibility to know the weight of your motorhome. Stating "I don't know" is not a defense in court.

• DVSA Checks: The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) frequently conducts roadside checks, especially near motorhome shows. Recent data showed over 80% of motorhomes stopped were overweight.

• WIMS Technology: Weigh In Motion Sensor (WIMS) systems on major UK motorways (particularly the M25) can automatically measure axle weights and compare them against your registration data.

How to Weigh Your Motorhome

Calculations based on brochure figures are rarely accurate. The only way to know your true weight is to visit a public weighbridge (often found at agricultural firms or scrap metal merchants).

How to get an accurate reading:

1. Preparation: Visit the weighbridge with empty water tanks, a full tank of fuel, and all your usual touring gear and passengers on board.

2. Front Axle: Drive only the front wheels onto the plate.

3. Rear Axle: Drive the entire vehicle onto the plate. The rear axle weight is the total weight minus the front axle weight.

4. Documentation: Keep the printout from the weighbridge; it is proof of your vehicle's status.

Dealing with Overweight Axles

If you are overweight, consider moving heavy items (like water bottles) from the garage to low kitchen lockers to redistribute weight. Be mindful of the cantilever effect: a bike rack on a long rear overhang can magnify the load on the rear axle significantly—a 150kg scooter might exert 200kg of pressure on the rear, while simultaneously lifting weight off the front axle, causing stability issues.

If a cull of your kit isn't enough, you may need to look into replating your vehicle to a higher weight limit (e.g., 3500kg to 3850kg). Specialists like SvTech can advise on whether this is a "paper exercise" or requires hardware upgrades like air suspension. Note that replating over 3500kg requires the C1 licence category.

Penalties for being overladen:

• <10% over: £100 fine.

• >15% over: £300 fine.

• >30% over: Court summons.

Tyres: Sizing, Ratings, and Pressures

Once you have your accurate axle weights, check your tyre sidewall. A typical Fiat Ducato tyre might be marked 225/75 R16:

• 225: Tread width in mm.

• 75: Aspect ratio.

• R: Radial construction.

• 116Q: The load index (116 = 1250kg per tyre) and speed rating (Q = 99mph).

Important: Never fit tyres with a lower load or speed index than recommended. Look for 'CP' (Camping Puncture) marked tyres, which have a construction specifically designed for the heavy, sustained loads of leisure vehicles.

Calculating Your Pressure

Don't rely solely on door jamb stickers, which often relate to the base van, not the converted motorhome.

1. Manufacturer Data: Search for technical guides (e.g., Michelin Technical Guide or Continental Technical Databook) to find pressure recommendations based on your actual axle weights.

2. ETRTO Advice: The European Tyre and Rim Technical Organisation suggests using 80 psi on the rear axle. Be aware this can result in a very harsh ride.

3. The Gauge: Use an accurate tyre gauge (range 0-80 psi / 5.5 bar) with a bleed-off valve.

Setting the Pressure

• Cold Pressures: Always set pressure first thing in the morning when the tyres are cold. If you set them after driving, the heat will have increased the pressure, leading to an under-inflated tyre once it cools down.

• The Equipment: Standard 12V dash compressors are often underpowered for motorhome tyres. Invest in a dedicated, heavy-duty inflator like the Ring RAC900 (approx. £80), which features better hoses and the power needed for motorhome pressures.

Premium vs. Budget Tyres

When it is time to replace your tyres, stick to premium brands like Michelin, Continental 

While budget tyres save money upfront, they are often a generation behind in technology. A 2021 test by ProMobil demonstrated that in emergency braking scenarios, premium tyres stopped 3.8 meters shorter than budget tyres—that is the length of an entire car. Given how few miles motorhomes typically travel, the added safety and peace of mind of premium tyres are well worth the investment.

Join the Community

I hope this guide helps you feel more confident about keeping your motorhome safe and road-legal. If you found this information useful, be sure to join our active community where we share tips, tricks, and tour plans regularly! You can find me over on my YouTube channel, Johnny Burr, or join one of my Facebook groups: Motorhome touring Scotland or Motorhome Touring The UK and Europe. For real-time chat and advice, come hang out on our Motorhome Touring Discord server, and don't forget to follow my Instagram @johnnyburr3 for all the latest updates from the road. Happy touring!

All links in this blog are Amazon Affiliate Links, You will pay extra but a small commission goes to support Motorhome Touring.

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Are Portable Power Stations Right for Your Motorhome

 

Bluetti Elite 300

Are Portable Power Stations Right for Your Motorhome, Camper or Caravan?

The rise of portable power stations—brands like Jackery, EcoFlow, and Bluetti—has certainly caught the attention of our community. While they are a popular gadget, deciding whether to bring one on board requires weighing the benefits against the physical and financial cost. Let’s expand on the pros and cons to help you decide if this is the right upgrade for your tour.

The Pros: Why You Might Want One

True Portability

Unlike a fixed battery bank, a portable power station offers genuine flexibility. You aren't limited to using it inside your vehicle. Whether you want to power a lamp in your awning, keep devices charged during a day at the beach, or even bring it into your home as a backup power source, the mobility is a major advantage.

Access to 230V Mains Power

As our contributor Nigel Donnelly highlights, most motorhomes typically run on a 12V supply. A power station bridges the gap by providing 230V mains power, which allows you to run standard electrical devices that you would normally only use at home. This is a game-changer if you want to use specific mains-powered equipment away from a hook-up.

Safety and Ease of Use

If you aren't comfortable with electrical DIY, installing an inverter into your van’s main electrical system can be risky; a bad installation could lead to damaged wiring or safety issues. A portable power station allows you to bypass the need for permanent modifications, saving you the worry of potentially damaging your 'van's internal electrics. Combined with a solar panel is where the power station comes in to a class of its own, having AC power for extended periods, topped up with solar power means true Off-Grid capability

Extra Ports and Connectivity

Modern life requires staying connected, and these stations often come equipped with a variety of ports, including USB-C. This creates a centralized hub for all your devices, allowing you to charge everything from phones to cameras without needing to tap into the main leisure battery bank.

Running High-Draw Gadgets

If you pick the right capacity, you can safely run energy-hungry appliances—like the best air fryer for a motorhome—without the fear of draining your main leisure battery. It also ensures you can keep hobby-related gear topped up even when you are off-grid or limited by restricted hook-up access.

The Cons: Things to Consider Before You Buy

Payload and Weight Restrictions

The biggest drawback is the weight. Many high-capacity units weigh upwards of 20kg, which can be a significant hit to your motorhome's available payload. If you are already close to your weight limit, adding such a heavy piece of gear might mean you have to sacrifice other essential items to stay road-legal.

The Financial Investment

There is no getting away from the cost; these units can be a significant financial outlay. Before you commit, it is worth asking if that budget might be better spent elsewhere on your van’s infrastructure.

Redundancy and Duplication

For many, a power station is essentially duplicating systems you already have. If you have a healthy, efficient 12V system and reliable mains hook-up, you may find that the power station sits unused for most of the trip. As Nigel Donnelly suggests, for a traditional motorhome setup, it is often a "nice-to-have" luxury rather than a functional necessity.

Professional Alternatives

If you are looking for more power, there are other paths. You could consider doubling up your existing battery bank or having a professional fit a dedicated inverter and additional power ports directly into your 'van. These solutions can sometimes prove more cost-effective and integrated than carrying a standalone, portable unit.

The Verdict

Ultimately, your decision should come down to your personal touring style. If you crave the freedom to operate gadgets anywhere, especially when you are regularly off-grid the convenience of a portable power station is hard to beat. However, if you primarily rely on hook-ups and want to keep your payload low, you might be better off sticking with your current, proven system.

Bluetti on Amazon

Want to join the conversation? I’d love to see you in our community! You can find us in our Facebook groups: Motorhome Touring Scotland and Motorhome Touring The UK and Europe. Follow me on Instagram @johnnyburr3, catch my content on Caravan Radio, or join our discussions on the Motorhome Touring Discord server. Don't forget to check out my YouTube channel @johnnyburr for more tips and adventures!

Are you currently struggling with your payload limits, or are you looking to upgrade your battery system for more off-grid freedom? Drop a comment below and let us know.

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Damp, the Silent Enemy

 

Defeating the Silent Enemy: The Ultimate Guide to Beating Damp in Your Motorhome

If there’s one word guaranteed to make any motorhomer wince, it’s damp. It isn’t engine trouble or a flat battery that should keep you up at night; it’s the silent, creeping menace that can turn your pride and joy into a costly headache if left unchecked.

The frustrating thing about damp is that it often starts small—sometimes invisible to the naked eye. But give it time, and it can cause serious structural damage, leave behind unpleasant smells, lead to a hefty repair bill, and tank your motorhome’s resale value. The good news? With a bit of know-how and a consistent routine, you can prevent it, spot it early, and deal with it before it gets out of hand.

Why is Damp Such a Big Deal?

Whether you have a compact campervan or a luxurious motorhome, your vehicle is a mix of materials—wood, insulation, aluminium, and GRP. Each reacts differently to moisture. Once water gets in, it doesn’t just sit there; it spreads, rotting structural timbers, delaminating panels, and inviting mould. Unlike a leaky tap at home, you often won't notice damp until the damage is already well underway.

The Two Faces of Damp: Ingress vs. Condensation

Understanding the source of the problem is the first step to fixing it.

• Ingress: This is the one to worry about most. It’s water getting in from the outside through failed seals around windows, doors, or rooflights; cracked sealant on joints; or poorly fitted accessories like bike racks and solar panels. If your seals are compromised, water will find a way in.

• Condensation: This is caused by everyday living—breathing, cooking, showering, and drying clothes. It’s less severe structurally than ingress but can still lead to persistent mould, unpleasant odours, and potential health issues if the ventilation is poor.

How to Spot the Early Warning Signs

When inspecting a motorhome, look for:

• Soft walls or floors
• Bubbling wallpaper or wallboard
• Musty smells
• Discoloured panels
• Staining around windows and roof lights
• High moisture readings from a damp meter

Damp rarely announces itself with a bang; it whispers. Trust your instincts—if something doesn't feel right, investigate it. 

Keep an eye (and nose) out for:

• The Nose Test: Does your 'van have a musty or "earthy" smell when you open the door after it's been closed up? That is often the first clue.

• The Hand Test: Press gently on walls and panels, especially around windows, in corners, inside overhead lockers, and near the washroom. Softness or "spongy" walls are a major red flag.

• Visual Cues: Look for discolouration, staining, peeling wallpaper, bubbling surfaces, or rusted screws.

• Window Condensation: If you see heavy water droplets on your windows in the morning, your ventilation needs an upgrade.

Why Experienced Motorhomers Take It So Seriously

A failed appliance, flat battery, or worn tyre is usually a straightforward repair. Damp is different because it:

• Often remains hidden for years.
• Continues to worsen if untreated.
• Can compromise the vehicle's structure.
• Is expensive to repair.
• Significantly affects resale value.

That's why many buyers consider a professional damp check more important than checking the mileage on a used motorhome. A 15-year-old motorhome with a dry body can be a better purchase than a newer one with water ingress.

The "Pro" DIY Toolkit

You don't need to be a professional to keep tabs on damp. For £20–£50, a handheld damp meter is the best bit of kit you can keep in your tool locker. It allows you to track moisture levels in your walls over time.

• 0–15%: Normal.

• 15–20%: Keep a close eye on it.

• 20%+: Time to investigate further or call in a pro.

Prevention: Your Best Weapon

To reduce condensation:

• Ventilate regularly
• Use roof vents
• Avoid drying clothes inside when possible
• Wipe down windows in the morning
• Consider a dehumidifier when on hookup

Prevention is always cheaper than the cure. Here is how you can stay dry:

1. Inspect Seals Twice-Yearly: Check all external seals. Look for cracks, gaps, or lifting sealant. If you see a crack, fix it now—don't wait for the next rainstorm.

2. Ventilation is King: Even in winter, moisture needs an exit. Keep roof vents clear, use your extractor fan while cooking, and crack a window when showering or sleeping.

3. Manage the Airflow: When storing your 'van, don't seal it up like a tomb. Use breathable covers, and consider placing moisture absorbers (or even tubs of silica gel) inside to pull humidity out of the air.

4. Create Gaps: If your furniture is pushed hard against the walls, air can't circulate. Leave a small gap between cushions, mattresses, and external walls to prevent mould growth.

5. Habitation Checks: An annual professional check is money well spent—and often a requirement for your warranty.

Winter Storage: Pro-Tips

If your 'van is going into hibernation, follow these steps to prevent spring-time surprises:

• Clear the Interior: Remove cushions and soft furnishings if possible, or prop them up so air can reach the backs of them.

• Open Everything: Leave cupboard doors, the fridge, and the wardrobe slightly ajar to encourage airflow.

• Check the Ground: If parked on grass, try to park on hardstanding or use blocks to prevent moisture rising into the chassis.

• The Window Vac: If you are using the 'van during colder months, a handheld window vacuum is a game-changer for removing condensation before it can pool and soak into the trims.

Karcher Window Vacuum

Join the Community

If you found these tips helpful, you’re in the right place! I’m Johnny Burr, and I’m dedicated to helping our community get the most out of their touring adventures. Whether you're looking for expert advice on vehicle maintenance, planning your next trip to the Highlands, or just want to chat with fellow enthusiasts, come join the conversation. You can find me over on my YouTube channel (@johnnyburr3) and Instagram (@johnnyburr3) for daily updates, or tune into my regular segments on Caravan Radio. For deeper discussions and community support, don’t forget to join our Facebook groups—Motorhome touring Scotland and Motorhome Touring The UK and Europe or jump into our Motorhome Touring Discord server. Everything we do is aimed at making your journey smoother, safer, and a whole lot more fun. Let’s keep those wheels turning!

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33 Errors Every Motorhome Owner Needs to Avoid

33 Errors Every Motorhome Owner Needs to Avoid: A Guide to Stress-Free Touring

Whether you’re a newcomer to the world of touring or a seasoned pro with years of experience, there is always something new to learn about van life. The touring community is fantastic, but we’ve all been there—the moment you realize you’ve forgotten something essential or made a mistake that could have been easily avoided.

To help you keep the fun in your travels, I’ve broken down 33 common errors that can occur when motorhoming. From the "oops" moments to the critical safety checks, here is how to avoid the pitfalls and ensure your next adventure is your best one yet.

The Essentials: Avoiding Common Mishaps

1. Dropping keys in the chemical disposal point It sounds silly, but it happens more than you’d think. Removing the chemical toilet cassette involves unlocking the hatch door, and it is all too easy to let your keys—or the cap of the cassette—slip into the disposal point. Always keep your keys securely in your pocket before you even open that hatch.

2. Overpacking the overhead lockers Take your time when loading up. Avoid stashing heavy items like wine bottles or syrup in the overhead lockers. Not only is this a safety risk, but one severe speed bump or a bit of late braking, and you’ll be cleaning up glass and sticky spills for hours—and potentially ruining your carpet, too.

3. Buying a ’van without seeing it This is the golden rule: never buy a used motorhome without inspecting it in person. Ideally, meet the seller at their home. If a deal looks too good to be true, it almost certainly is.

4. Not figuring out how your heating works Don’t wait until you’re sitting in a freezing field in the middle of nowhere to figure out your digital thermostat. Invest an hour reading your handbook at home or watch tutorials on YouTube. Being warm and comfortable is key to enjoying year-round touring.

5. Falling foul of an awning Awnings are brilliant for extra space, but remember: what goes up must come down. Experienced tourers often call full awnings "Divorce-in-a-Bag" for a reason. Make sure you leave yourself enough time to pack it away properly before you plan to move off.

6. Not checking traffic conditions Nobody wants to spend their holiday stuck in gridlock. Before you set off, check your route using traffic apps or your motorhome-specific sat nav. A little preparation can save you hours of sitting on the motorway.

7. Thinking motorhoming is only for summer Modern motorhomes are incredibly efficient. With proper heating systems and insulation, you can stay just as warm and cozy in the winter as you are at home. Don't let the calendar dictate your travel—get out there year-round!

8. Not slowing down on unfamiliar roads Underestimating rural roads is a major source of stress. Whether you're in the Lake District or rural Wales, be prepared for tight corners and narrow lanes. If you aren't sure, go extra slowly, take your time with maneuvers, and don’t worry about the locals behind you—they can wait.

9. Forgetting Sunday closing in Europe If you’re heading across the channel, plan ahead. Shops and fuel stations in France, and especially in Germany, have very strict Sunday closing hours. Don’t get caught out with an empty tank—make sure you fill up by Saturday night.

10. Not testing the beds Never be too embarrassed to lie down on the beds at a dealership. I’ve heard of people selling their ’van after only a couple of months because they were uncomfortable. If you don't fit, or the mattress isn't right for you, don't buy it.

11. Being late for the ferry Motorhomes are often required to arrive earlier than standard cars. Always double-check your booking requirements; watching the ferry sail away without you is the quickest way to ruin the start of a holiday.

12. Forgetting toilet rolls Toilet tissue is the motorhomer’s best friend. It’s light, essential for emergencies, and prevents you from having to use that "sandpaper" card-like paper found in some older public facilities. Always pack more than you think you need.

13. Buying the wrong layout Choose your layout based on your life, not just how the ’van looks. Do you need a fixed bed? Do you need bunks for the grandkids? Are you a chef who needs a bigger kitchen? Research, list your priorities, and try to hire the same layout before you commit to a purchase.

14. Assuming you’ll find petrol Gambling on your diesel reserves is a high-stakes game you don't want to play. Plan your fuel stops and add them to your sat nav route. Don't wait until you're on fumes.

15. Pitching in the wrong place Always be mindful of your neighbors and local rules. Remember that wild camping is not permitted in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland without landowner permission. Also, check your surroundings—you don’t want to pitch up next to a noisy group or a site that's about to become a hub for night divers!

16. Not making a packing list "I have a good memory" is the last thing you want to say before a trip. Packing lists prevent you from forgetting medication, charging leads, or the food you prepared for the first night. Avoid the "awkward conversations" by keeping a physical list.

17. Not asking the locals Google and tour guides are great, but the locals are the best resource you have. Strike up a conversation—you’ll often find hidden gems, fantastic recommendations, and spots that aren't on any map.

18. Not giving the "Motorhome Wave" The camaraderie among motorhome owners is one of the best parts of the lifestyle. The cheery wave to fellow tourers is a tradition—just make sure you keep your hands on the wheel while you do it!

19. Forgetting to have fun It’s easy to get stressed by minor inconveniences, but don't let them ruin your trip. Most of the frustrating problems you encounter will turn into the funny stories you tell later. Enjoy the experience!

20. Forgetting about bedding storage If you opt for a layout without fixed beds, you need a plan for where that bedding goes during the day. Otherwise, your living space will quickly turn into a pile of duvets and pillows.

21. Forgetting a can opener It sounds basic, but setting off with canned food and no way to open it is a hungry mistake. Keep a spare, dedicated can opener in the ’van so you're never caught out.

22. Not securing your dog If you tour with a furry friend, safety is paramount. Use a crash-tested harness or a secure, well-ventilated carrier crate to keep your pet safe while you're on the move.

23. Forgetting to look up (and around!) Height barriers, low bridges, and overhanging branches can turn your high-top into a "convertible" very quickly. If you do get stuck under an obstacle, try deflating your tyres slightly to gain a few crucial inches of clearance.

24. Not parking considerately Council parking for motorhomes can be a challenge. Always check car park rules for weight limits or bans. If you do take up two spaces, be prepared to pay for two tickets if the rules allow it.

25. Not using the right apps Tech is your best friend. Use Google Maps for quick navigation, PetrolPrices UK to save money, Komoot and AllTrails for finding walking routes, and Hipcamp for those off-the-beaten-path sites. Keep what3words installed for emergencies, too.

26. Stopping overnight on motorway aires In countries like France, stick to the village and town aires. We strongly advise against staying overnight on motorway service aires, as these are known to be prime targets for thieves looking for quick getaways.

27. Not checking around you before moving Low-speed maneuvering near obstacles is difficult from the driver’s seat. If you don't have a co-pilot, get out and walk around the ’van. Yes, it’s a chore, but it’s much better than the alternative of sweeping up glass and debris.

28. Letting impatient drivers bully you Some drivers lose their cool when they get stuck behind a motorhome. Don't let them pressure you into a dangerous or awkward spot. Wait for a proper, safe, and wide layby before pulling over. If they’re in that much of a rush, they should have left earlier!

29. Running out of gas in Europe You cannot buy Calor gas on the Continent; they use different bottles and fittings. Always carry a spare cylinder, and research the necessary adapters for your trip.

30. Letting kids outgrow the ’van Family needs change fast. If your kids are growing, don't wait until you're climbing over their legs every morning to realize you need to upsize. Your sleeping arrangement should be comfortable for everyone on board.

31. Forgetting board games Gadgets are great, but for those rainy days, there’s nothing like a deck of cards or a board game to pass the time. It’s how you make the real memories.

32. Forgetting a reward You’ve driven for hours, navigated tight roads, and finally perfected your pitch. Make sure you have a cold beer or a cup of tea ready to celebrate your arrival. You earned it!

33. Not keeping up to date Staying in the loop will help you get the absolute most out of your motorhome. So be sure to join all the social media that Motorhome Touring has to offer!

More on this Subject

Get Your Motorhome Ready

Mastering Motorhome European Touring

Before Touring Europe

Join the Conversation

I hope these tips help you avoid some of the common headaches we’ve all faced at one time or another! If you want to keep learning, sharing the joy of the road, and getting involved in a community that understands the lifestyle, I’d love to have you join us.

Whether you are looking for route recommendations, technical advice, or just a friendly chat with fellow enthusiasts, you can find me here:

• YouTube: Subscribe to my channel for regular tours and tips: Johnny Burr

• Facebook Groups: Join the discussion in our active communities:

  • Motorhome touring Scotland

  • Motorhome Touring The UK and Europe

• Instagram: Follow my daily adventures and photos @johnnyburr3

• Discord: Join our Motorhome Touring server to chat with the crew.

• Radio: Catch my latest segments and technical tips on Caravan Radio.

Remember, all of these platforms are part of the Motorhome Touring family, a space built by tourers, for tourers. I’ll see you on the road

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