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!
Mastering Motorhome European Touring
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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.
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