Whether you’re a newcomer to the world of touring or are a more experienced motorhome owner, there’s always something new to learn about van life – especially when it comes to sidestepping errors that could otherwise spoil your fun.
With this in mind, I’ve compiled a list with the rest of the expert team at Practical Motorhome, including Deputy editor Paul Critcher, Reviews editor Peter Baber, Staff writer Jo Davies, and contributors Gentleman Jack, Nick Harding and Nigel Donnelly, to highlight the mistakes that can occur when motorhoming. These are the errors you will want to avoid making, as well as the things you will want to make sure you don’t forget about packing…
If you’re looking for some of the errors to steer clear of at a campsite too, we’ve got you covered, as we also took a look at the 27 mistakes you’ll want to avoid on-site in your motorhome.
1. Dropping keys in the chemical disposal point
I haven’t done this myself, but I know someone who has… Removing the chemical toilet cassette involves unlocking the hatch door, so your keys are required. Unless they’re then safely secured in your pocket, it’s all too easy to let them fall into the chemical disposal point (the same applies to the cap of the cassette, too). The result isn’t pretty – keep those keys properly tucked away!
2. Overpacking the overhead lockers in your motorhome
Take your time when loading a motorhome, in particular when you’re packing the overhead lockers in your motorhome kitchen.
John says: “From my own experience, I can tell you that having bottles of wine, or on one especially memorable tour, maple syrup, stashed there is a major faux pas! Not only is this a safety issue, it only takes one severe speed bump or late-braking incident and you’ll be mopping up the sticky spillage and broken glass for hours – and very likely having to throw out a section of your motorhome carpet, too.”
3. Buying a ‘van without seeing it beforehand
Some of the hints and tips here are less important than others, but this one is absolutely crucial: never fall into the trap of buying a used motorhome without having seen it first. Ideally, you’ll meet the seller at their home, and remember: if a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is.
4. Not figuring out how to stay warm
Nigel says: “Don’t wait until you’re sitting freezing in a field to figure out how your heating works. In the old days when you were simply lighting a little gas fire, it was self-explanatory, but in these days of programmable central heating and digital themostats, working things out on the fly simply isn’t smart.”
“Invest an hour or so in reading and digesting the details in the handbook, to ensure you get the best from your heating when the mercury plummets. There are plenty of guides on YouTube, if studying the handbook feels too much like ‘back to school’!”
And if you still feel cold after all that? Think about buying the best heater for a campervan to get a bit of extra warmth on tour.
5. Falling foul of an awning
The best motorhome awning is an incredibly useful piece of touring kit, but Gentleman Jack advises remembering that what goes up must come down.
He says: “Full awnings – be they Safari rooms or freestanding types using a metal pole frame or pumped air supports – offer extra living space and a slightly more secure shelter for all of those important holiday essentials. However, bear in mind that the more canvas you put up, the more must be taken down before moving off at the end of your stay. There is a very good reason why many experienced motorcaravanners often refer to full awnings as ‘Divorce-in-a-Bag’!”
6. Not checking how bad the traffic is likely to be on your trip
Paul says: “Nobody wants to spend their precious holiday time stuck in traffic and while you can’t always avoid it, you can at least check your route before you leave. There are plenty of excellent traffic apps available, while many of the best motorhome sat navs also provide this useful function.”
7. Thinking that motorhoming is just for the summer months
It’s not like it used to be – thanks to modern materials and efficient motorhome heating systems, there’s every chance that you’ll actually be more warm and cosy in your ‘van during the winter than you are at home. If you’re tempted to continue touring over the winter, and plenty of people do, then go for it.
8. Not slowing down on roads that are unfamiliar
One of the joys of touring is heading off to new areas, whether it’s to pitch up at one of the best campervan sites in the Lake District or exploring Wales. However, Jo advises being careful when you’re driving in an area you’re not used to.
She says: “Underestimating unfamiliar roads has to be one of the most stress-inducing touring mistakes. I’ve scraped tyres and collected a couple of dings in places such as rural Wales and the Lake District, often after misjudging low-lying walls hidden in hedges. Tight corners, narrow lanes and few places to pull in are regular features in the most beautiful holiday spots, so be prepared to go extra slowly, take your time with manoeuvres and don’t worry about any angry looks from the locals!”
9. Forgetting Sunday closing in Europe
If the thought of a European tour appeals, make sure you plan ahead and remember opening times can be different. Peter says: “Shops in France generally do not open on Sundays. This includes fuel stations. Autoroute service stations may remain open, but most of the stations d’essence in villages will be firmly fermé. I found this out to my cost once in Normandy, where what was supposed to have been a gentle ride back to Dieppe turned into a horror story. Try to fill up your ’van by Saturday night.”
“In addition, bear in mind that Germany could be even worse. If you think this super-efficient country would never be quite so draconian about Sunday opening, think again.”
“Until 2006, German shops were only allowed to open on one Saturday afternoon in every four – never mind on Sundays. I recall once driving into one Black Forest town on a Saturday afternoon, only to have a classic tumbleweed moment when I realised that I was ganz allein. Even today, German-speaking countries have the strictest Sunday opening hours in Europe. Don’t assume anything.”
10. Not testing the ‘van’s beds for size when buying
I once heard from a couple of keen motorhomers who were selling their vehicle after just a couple of months, because the beds were so uncomfortable. They explained that they had been embarrassed about lying down on the beds when they were at the dealership, to try them out for size. They lost a lot of money on their purchase. The lesson here – never be too embarrassed to check out the beds when buying!
11. Being late for the ferry
Choosing between the ferry or Eurotunnel isn’t always the easiest decision, but if you’ve settled for the former, make sure you give yourself plenty of time to catch it. Paul says: “There’s nothing quite so final as watching the ferry that you should have boarded sailing away into the distance. Motorhomes are often required to turn up earlier than regular car passengers, so double check websites for timings.”
12. Forgetting to pack toilet rolls
We all know the importance of remembering to pack the best toilet chemicals for a motorhome but there’s another loo essential to not overlook as well, says Paul.
He explains: “Toilet tissue must surely be the motorhomer’s best friend. Light in weight, easy to dispense, and perfect for any spillage or snotty nose. Do you remember the waxy sandpaper that used to double for toilet paper at sites in mainland Europe? Thankfully, those days are largely gone, but you could still encounter the occasional public facility that provides the card-like stuff all too reminiscent of the 1970s. Never forget the loo roll!”
13. Buying a ’van with the wrong layout
There are plenty of motorhome layouts to choose from, but if you’re planning to buy a ‘van, it’s important to take the time to think about what you want from your ‘van.
Paul says: “If you seek buying advice from any expert, leisure vehicle dealer or Practical Motorhome, the key answer will always be the same – choose the right layout. Do you want to have more space during the day, or would you prefer the convenience of a fixed bed? Will you need bunks for the grandchildren when they join you on tour? Are you a keen cook? Try before you buy, hire if you can. List your priorities. Visit shows and dealers. Research, research, research.”
14. Assuming you’ll find a petrol station
A useful tip for when you’re driving a motorhome – plan for petrol stops! Jo explains: “There aren’t really many opportunities for ‘living on the edge’ when it comes to motorhoming, but gambling on your diesel reserves is certainly one way.”
“When I’m out on the road, I have a habit of thinking that diesel is bound to be cheaper at the next fuel station, or that we simply haven’t got the time to stop – but it’s always worth planning your fill-ups with care. Don’t meander around waiting for a station: add a stop on your sat nav or Google Map route.”
Take a look at our guide to motorhome fuel consumption if you’re after some tips on ways to maximise your ‘van’s efficiency.
15. Pitching in the wrong place
Paul says: “Back in my youth, I had a history of pitching up in the wrong place. On one occasion, we found a quiet spot not far from Swanage, in Dorset. Happily settled down for the night, we were awakened by a group of scuba divers, who had turned up for a night dive off Swanage Pier and were noisily kitting up right next to us. In addition, remember that wild camping isn’t allowed anywhere in England, Wales or Northern Ireland without the landowner’s permission.”
16. Not making a packing list
When you’re kitting out your motorhome, don’t assume you’ll automatically remember everything, says Gentleman Jack.
He explains: “’Don’t worry, I have an excellent memory and I really don’t need a packing list.’ This is frequently uttered by those just about to set off on a motorcaravanning trip, if not to ‘hell’, then certainly heading for some ‘awkward conversations’, a few ‘pious reprimands’, and very probably ending with a residency in the ‘maison du chien’. Frequently forgotten items include the meal previously prepared for the first night, regular medication, and for screen-addicted ‘yoof’…charging leads.”
17. Not asking the locals for tips about the area
Jo says: “Between Google, Lonely Planet – and Practical Motorhome, of course – you can plan your tour activities, campsites, meals and far more, pretty much down to the minute. However, don’t forget that the most valuable resource when you’re away is all around you – the locals! A friendly conversation with someone will not only help to brighten your day, but can elicit some really fantastic recommendations, tips about the area, and if you’re lucky, even a few hidden gems for beating the crowds.”
18. Not giving the motorhome wave when you’re on the road
Camaraderie among motorhome owners is strong, and it’s mostly typified with the cheery ‘hello!’ wave that many give to other motorcaravanners on the road. Do reciprocate – but be very careful when taking your hand off the wheel…
19. Forgetting to have a fab time
The whole point of pitching up at one of the UK’s best motorhome sites is relaxing. Nick says: “Don’t let anything get in the way of having a good time. More often than not, the problems that most frustrated you at the time are the very ones you can laugh about at a later date. We know, we’ve all been there. And we still love our motorhomes.”
20. Forgetting that you’ll need to store your bedding
When choosing a motorhome, it’s important to remember exactly what the sleeping setup you opt for will mean to what you need to store. Peter says: “It’s true, of course, that fixed beds take up a lot of room in any motorhome interior. But it’s also true that if you decide to do away with fixed beds, you will then need to ensure that you have enough storage space to put away all of the bedding during the daytime.”
“Otherwise, you’ll find that you end up with an interior that is nothing but piles of duvets, sleeping bags and pillows, so you probably won’t be saving on that all-important living space after all. It’s well worth remembering this when you’re choosing your next ’van.”
21. Forgetting to pack your can opener
I once set off on a long tour of Iceland, with plenty of canned food on board. Just after the ferry had docked, I realised I’d forgotten my can opener. Now I keep a spare in the ’van – better safe than sorry (and hungry)!
22. Securing your dog properly
If you tour with a dog, it’s crucial you ensure they’re safely tethered in the back of your motorhome. The best solution is a fully secured carrier crate, but a crash-tested harness
fitted to the rear seatbelt is another alternative.
23. Forgetting to look around
Make sure you’re aware of what’s on the road around you – otherwise, you may just find yourself needing to replace a Fiat Ducato door mirror or repair your high-top. Gentleman Jack says: “Height barriers, overhanging branches, low bridges and temporary scaffolding are just some of the many obstacles with the potential to turn your high-top or coachbuilt into a ‘convertible’! Fresh air is good for you, but perhaps such forced ventilation will be less so.”
Top tip: If the worst happens and your vehicle is stuck under an immovable object, decrease the pressure in the tyres to facilitate the ‘reverse of shame’.
24. Not parking your ’van considerately
We get it – one of the trickier things about driving a ’van is finding somewhere to park. Councils don’t always make it easy, so you should always double check any car park to ensure that there’s no weight limit or ban on leisure vehicles. If you take up two spaces, we would also suggest buying two tickets – although again, this might not be allowed.
25. Not making the most of those handy touring apps
Jo says” “Like many motorhomers, I love an off-grid getaway, and there are so many apps that can add to your touring experience – and make it harder if you don’t have access to them.”
“Personally, I’m a die-hard Google Maps fan and find it’s great for ad hoc destinations, such as parks and cafés, or for locating specific shops.”
“PetrolPrices UK is brilliant for pinpointing fuel stops. Outdoorsy must-haves are Komoot and AllTrails for walking, hiking and cycling routes, while Hipcamp is good for discovering sites that are off the beaten track.”
“A lot of these places also use what3words if they’re difficult to find, and it’s useful for so many other things, including emergency situations.”
26. Stopping for an overnight stay on an autoroute aire
We often talk about stopping at French aires in Practical Motorhome, but we’re referring specifically to the network of stopovers that are provided in the country’s many beautiful towns and villages. We would never recommend staying overnight on a motorway aire – it’s all too easy for thieves to target your ’van before making a quick motorway getaway, hardly the best for motorhome security!
27. Not taking time to check around you and avoid a wreck
Nigel explains: “Low-speed manoeuvring near obstacles is really hard to judge from the driver’s seat. If you don’t have a co-pilot to confirm clearance, get out of the ’van and check that the motorhome will clear any overhanging trees, bollards and other obstructions. Agreed, this is a bit of a chore, but it’s really far preferable to sweeping up the mess when you get it wrong…”
28. Feeling bullied by impatient idiots
Nigel says: “For some reason, a handful of calm and collected drivers can turn into Incredible Hulks when confronted by a motorhome in front of them. Let them do what they want and don’t get involved. Instead, take a leaf out of the Wagon Driver’s playbook. Be considerate, but don’t put yourself at risk of a problem by being too polite. It’s good practice to pull over and let faster traffic past on a B-road, but do make sure you aren’t pulling in anywhere awkward to get out of because you are pressured by somebody behind you.”
“Wait until a layby with easy access, no potholes and good visibility comes up before pulling over. If they’re in that much of a rush, they should leave earlier! Or be a good enough driver to pick a suitable overtaking spot if you’re holding them up that much.”
29. Running out of gas in Europe
John says: “You can’t get Calor gas on the Continent, because they use different bottles and fitments. One memorable year (a while before I became aware of this important fact), we ran out of gas in the ’van and had to buy a small, single-burner Campingaz stove to boil up water for cuppas and pasta. Fortunately, we could use the barbecue for most of our cooking! Your motorhome likely has space for two gas cylinders – always carry a spare.”
30. Allowing your kids to outgrow your motorhome
A family motorhome should provide comfort for everyone, so it’s important to remember children can outgrow the space. John says: “I simply hadn’t realised quite how much my son had grown in the past year, or at least not considered the matter in relation to our motorhome. As it was, every morning, I found myself having to clamber out over his legs, which were supported with cushions where they were hanging over the edge of the front sofa. Definitely time to think about upsizing!”
31. Forgetting to pack cards and games for those rainy days
While gadgets like the best campervan projector can keep you occupied on rainy days, it’s also worth bringing board games and a pack of cards to make some special memories.
Paul explains: “Some of my favourite memories of time spent with my grandparents are of playing Ludo on rainy days. I’m talking full-on downpours (drizzly days are for walking in raincoats!), when the pitter-patter on the roof lends itself to cups of tea and Penguin biscuits. No apps allowed in our ’van – well, maybe one or two, but when it comes to Ludo, we always want the full board experience. And if there are enough players, contract whist is one of the best card games ever invented – even though I have to relearn the rules every time we play!”
32. Forgetting to have a cold beer ready
Paul says: “You’ve just driven 200 miles and spent the past hour setting up the awning and the BBQ, perfecting your pitch. You’re now a bit warm and very, very thirsty. And then you realise you don’t have a cold beer to hand! What were you thinking?”
33. Not taking out a subscription to Practical Motorhome
If you enjoy reading Practical Motorhome, why not take out a subscription? You’ll save money and get access to more than 130 back issues!
Are you after more hints and tips to help you get the most from your ‘van? Then check out our guide to motorhome roof cleaning, so you can get on top of what can be the dirtiest part of your ‘van.
Future Publishing Limited, the publisher of Practical Motorhome, provides the information in this article in good faith and makes no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. Individuals carrying out the instructions do so at their own risk and must exercise their independent judgement in determining the appropriateness of the advice to their circumstances. Individuals should take appropriate safety precautions and be aware of the risk of electrocution when dealing with electrical products. To the fullest extent permitted by law, neither Future nor its employees or agents shall have any liability in connection with the use of this information. Double check any warranty is not affected before proceeding.
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