Motorhome travel: the basics

In short: A motorhome combines vehicle and accommodation in one, allowing spontaneous, flexible travel. Anyone taking a motorhome trip for the first time should get familiar beforehand with the technology, campsites, and required driving licence class.

In more detail: Depending on total weight, larger motorhomes require a class C1 licence, but many models stay under 3.5 tonnes and can be driven with a class B licence.

In detail

• Driving licence: Up to 3.5 tonnes, a class B licence is enough; licences obtained before 1999 often cover more.
• Campsites: Full campsites offer complete infrastructure, simple parking spots often only power and waste disposal.
• Supply and disposal: Refill fresh water, and dispose of grey water and chemical toilet waste at suitable stations.
• Gas supply: The fridge, stove, and heater often run on liquid gas; check the bottles regularly.
• Packing list: Pay attention to typical camping gear, but also remember the travel first-aid kit (reiseapotheke-zusammenstellen).
• Driving behavior: Higher weight and a higher center of gravity significantly change braking distance and cornering behavior.
• Rent or buy: For a first experience, a rented motorhome is a good idea before investing (mietwagen-tipps).