Taking the time to properly prepare your motorhome before a trip can save you stress, improve safety, and make your holiday far more enjoyable. Whether you’re a seasoned tourer or setting out on your first adventure, this guide covers the essentials.
Mechanical Checks
- Inspect tyres for wear and ensure they’re inflated to the correct pressure.
- Check oil level, coolant, and brake fluid.
- Test all external lights: indicators, brake lights, headlights, and fog lamps.
- Make sure your leisure and engine batteries are fully charged and in good condition.
Interior Prep
- Secure all cupboards, drawers, and loose items to prevent movement during transit.
- Test your gas appliances including the cooker, fridge, and heating system.
- Check your fresh and waste water systems: clean tanks, test water pump, and fill as needed.
- Empty the waste water tank and toilet cassette at an appropriate service point before travel. Make sure both are securely locked in place to prevent leaks or spillage on the move.
- Ensure the fridge is operating on the desired power source (12V, gas, or mains).
- Check that any rotating seats are returned to their forward-facing position and properly locked before departure.
Safety Checks
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
- Make sure your fire extinguisher is present, accessible, and within expiry.
- Pack a well-stocked first aid kit.
- Carry a torch, warning triangle, and reflective vests.
- Isolate the gas supply before travel — turn off the cylinder at the valve and ensure appliances are off to prevent leaks or accidents during transit.
- Be aware of your vehicle’s weight limits — ensure the MTPLM (Maximum Technically Permissible Laden Mass) is not exceeded once passengers, luggage, water, gas, and all travel possessions are onboard. Overloading can affect braking, stability, and legality.
Legal & Admin
- Verify your motorhome insurance, MOT certificate, and road tax are current.
- Ensure your driving licence covers your motorhome’s weight and category.
- Keep physical or digital copies of your documents: insurance, breakdown cover, vehicle registration, and recovery details.
- Check local emission regulations in the countries or cities you’re visiting. Many European cities (including parts of France, Germany, Italy, and Belgium) have low-emission zones (LEZ) or require a special emissions sticker (Crit’Air in France, Umweltplakette in Germany, etc.). Failure to comply can result in fines or restricted access.
Packing & Essentials
- Bring your water hose, electrical hookup cable, and levelling ramps.
- Include spare bulbs, fuses, and basic tools.
- Don’t forget outdoor gear: chairs, tables, awning accessories.
- Keep personal essentials handy: chargers, toiletries, food, and drink.
Final Tips
- Update your satnav or offline maps and check your planned route for restrictions.
- Check the weather forecast and road conditions.
- Let someone know your travel plans and expected return date.
- Do a final walk-around to check that everything is stowed, closed, and secure.
Don’t Forget!
Even the most organised travellers can overlook the small but essential things. Here’s a quick reminder of personal items and travel kit you’ll be glad you packed:
- Passports or ID cards – especially important for European travel.
- Cash and credit/debit cards – some sites or service stations may be cash-only.
- Camera or smartphone – capture the memories!
- Alarm clock – useful if your phone isn’t reliable or you want to unplug.
- Sun cream and your favourite sun hat – motorhome adventures can be sunny too.
- Waterproof jacket – because yes, it sometimes rains on holiday!
- Flip-flops or shower shoes – a must if using shared campsite facilities.
- Wheel clamp – for added security when parked or overnighting.
- Levelling ramps – to ensure a comfortable and stable pitch.
- Spare bulbs and fuses – required by law in some countries and handy in any case.
Tip: Print out your pre-travel checklist and keep it in the cab — it’s a great way to stay on top of the details before every journey.