There’s nothing quite like the excitement of owning a motorhome. The idea of hitting the open road, waking up to new views each morning, and having the freedom to explore on your own terms is enough to make anyone eager to set off. But here’s the truth: motorhome ownership comes with its fair share of lessons. And many of them, unfortunately, are learned the hard way.
The same pitfalls catch out countless owners every year.
From overpacking to forgetting vital checks, the same pitfalls catch out countless owners every year — beginners and seasoned travellers alike. The good news? Most mistakes are entirely avoidable once you know about them. That’s exactly what this guide is here to do: highlight the most common motorhome blunders and show you how to steer clear of them, so your adventures are smooth, safe, and stress-free.
Mistake 1: Overpacking
It’s tempting, isn’t it? With cupboards, lockers, and storage tucked into every corner, you might think your motorhome can handle whatever you throw at it. But here’s the catch: every motorhome has a maximum weight limit, known as the Maximum Technically Permissible Laden Mass (MTPLM). Go over it, and you’re not only risking your safety — you could be breaking the law.
Overloading affects more than just handling. It puts strain on tyres, increases fuel consumption, and adds extra wear to brakes and suspension. Worst of all, if you’re involved in an accident and your motorhome is overweight, your insurance may refuse to pay out.
Solution: Travel light. Prioritise essentials and pack smart. Store heavier items low down to keep the centre of gravity stable. If you’re unsure, take your motorhome to a weighbridge — many councils and MOT centres offer the service. Once you know your limits, you’ll pack with confidence.
Mistake 2: Skipping Pre-Trip Checks
Motorhomes are complex machines, and neglecting basic checks before a trip is one of the fastest ways to invite trouble. Something as small as under-inflated tyres can lead to a dangerous blowout on the motorway. Low oil or coolant can cause overheating, leaving you stranded miles from anywhere. Even forgetting to secure cupboards and hatches can result in damage when items go flying on your first bend.
The good news? Most of these headaches are completely preventable.
Solution: Make a pre-trip checklist and stick to it. At a minimum, check tyre pressure and tread depth, fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, and screen wash), lights, and wiper blades.
Inside: secure cupboards, lock windows, and make sure nothing is loose. It takes 10 minutes but can save you hundreds in repairs and hours of stress.
Mistake 3: Ignoring Water & Waste
Ask any experienced motorhomer, and they’ll tell you: managing water and waste is half the battle on the road. Grey tanks that overflow onto the pitch. Fresh water that runs out halfway through a wild camping stay. Black tanks (toilets) that haven’t been emptied when needed. These are classic rookie mistakes, and they can ruin a trip fast.
Solution: Get into a routine. Always travel with fresh tanks topped up, especially before long drives. Carry a good-quality hose with universal tap fittings so you’re not caught short at campsites. Empty waste tanks regularly — don’t wait until they’re full. And if you’re heading abroad, remember that European sites often use different fittings, so having adapters is invaluable.
Mistake 4: Underestimating Roads
If you’ve ever found yourself squeezing a 7-metre motorhome down a country lane meant for tractors, you’ll know exactly why this mistake makes the list. Not all roads are motorhome-friendly. Narrow lanes, low bridges, weight restrictions, and sharp bends can all spell trouble. And once you’re stuck, reversing a motorhome out of a tight spot is no fun.
Not all roads are motorhome-friendly.
Solution: Invest in a motorhome-specific sat-nav. Unlike standard systems, they let you input your vehicle’s height, width, and weight, steering you clear of unsuitable routes. Apps like Campercontact or Park4Night also highlight routes and campsites used by other motorhomers, making navigation easier. When in doubt, stick to A-roads and motorhome-friendly routes until you gain more confidence.
Mistake 5: Forgetting About Power
Your motorhome’s electrical system is one of its most important features — but it’s also one of the easiest to misunderstand. Relying solely on hook-ups means you’re limited to campsites, while draining your leisure battery too quickly leaves you in the dark, literally.
Many owners also forget about carrying spare fuses, which can bring everything to a halt if one blows.
Solution: Learn how your electrical system works. Know the difference between your engine battery and leisure battery, and understand how much power your appliances draw. If you plan on wild camping, solar panels are a great investment to keep batteries topped up. Always carry spare fuses and a battery bank for small devices. The more prepared you are, the more freedom you’ll have.
Mistake 6: Poor Planning
There’s something wonderfully romantic about throwing a bag in the van and heading off wherever the road takes you. And while spontaneity is part of the joy of motorhome life, poor planning can quickly turn it into frustration.
Arriving at a fully booked campsite late at night. Struggling to find a dump station. Or turning up somewhere with strict overnight parking bans.
Solution: Strike a balance. During peak season, booking campsites in advance is often essential. Off-peak, you can usually travel more freely, but always have a backup plan. Download campsite and wild camping apps, and research local rules before you arrive. Even a loose plan can save you hours of stress and disappointment.
Mistake 7: Neglecting Security
Motorhomes are valuable, and unfortunately, that makes them attractive to thieves.
Neglecting security — whether it’s leaving valuables visible or forgetting to lock doors — is an open invitation. Theft doesn’t just mean losing possessions. It can mean damaged locks, smashed windows, or even the loss of the motorhome itself.
Solution: Think of security in layers. Always lock doors and windows, even when you’re just popping out. Hide valuables or take them with you. Invest in visible deterrents like steering locks, wheel clamps, and security posts for driveways. Alarms and GPS trackers add another level of protection, while motion-sensor lights can deter thieves at night. The more effort they need to put in, the less likely they’ll bother.
The beauty of motorhome ownership lies in the freedom it gives you. But freedom doesn’t mean throwing caution to the wind. Most common mistakes — from overpacking to skipping checks or forgetting security — are simple to avoid once you know about them.
Treat your motorhome with the same care you’d give to your home and your car combined. Pack wisely, maintain it properly, plan ahead, and don’t cut corners on safety. Do that, and every trip will be smoother, safer, and far more enjoyable.
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