Buying your first motorhome is an exciting experience. It’s likely that you want to get out on the road and drive your motorhome right away. Before heading out on your first adventure – you may be looking for some top tips or advice about your vehicle. There are a number of tips that will definitely help you when you are starting out as a motorhome owner. These will help you gain confidence and understand everything you need to know when going on your first trip with your motorhome. Got any tips or tricks that didn’t make our list? Let us know in the comments below!
Study Your Manufacturer Manual
Similarly to cars, your motorhome will come equipped with an informative manual that provides instructions. These help you operate your motorhome better and have access to all of the important parts of the vehicle. Make sure that you take the time to study your manufacturer’s manual so that you know where everything is, what to do in the event of an emergency and to get a better understanding of all your motorhome’s features.
Be Prepared In The Case Of An Emergency
One of the most important tasks when purchasing your new motorhome is to understand what to do in the case of an emergency. Find out where your spare wheel is, identify how the electrics work in your motorhome and how to operate the lights. Ensure that before embarking on your first trip – you have studied this carefully to ensure that you are fully prepared in the event of a breakdown or emergency.
Understand Limitations on Weight & Driving Your Motorhome
If you are not used to driving a larger vehicle, you will want to get used to driving your motorhome. Even the most experienced drivers may not have driver larger vehicles. The size of your motorhome may also vary depending on your requirements so keep this in mind.
You may have seen the term ‘payload’. These may differ depending on the manufacturer but they are commonly set at 90% full tank, the driver’s weight of 75kg & empty water tanks. Any additional weight added to the vehicle must comply with the maximum authorised mass or MAM. If you’ve ever tried to pack a suitcase and suddenly exceeded the weight limit when checking on the scales – you will know that the weight of items can be surprising. Remember that everything has weight so you need to factor this when packing your motorhome before a trip & don’t overpack.
Preparing For Your First Trip
Now that you have learned about your motorhome and have gotten used to how it drives on the road – it’s time to prepare for your first trip. Make sure that you have packed emergency equipment such as fire safety equipment & other items. A medical kit is highly recommended if you are going to be walking, hiking or for general safety. For your motorhome, ensure that you have:
- A good and sufficient water supply before your trip.
- Your fire extinguisher, smoke and fire detectors checked or installed if not already.
- Ensure your battery, you will need 2 gas cylinders but then you can save weight and space by just refilling your current cylinders with gas suppliers.
Insuring Your Motorhome
Motorhome insurance is the same as car insurance – it is a legal requirement. It can also cover damage or theft of the vehicle and you and your passengers. There are three main types of motorhome insurance with Third Party coverage being the legal minimum requirement. This can also have fire & theft added as well as fully comprehensive coverage that ensures your motorhome is covered even if the accident or incident is your fault.
Arranging for motorhome insurance with an insurance broker such as Advance Insurance allows you to get the support that you need. Insurance brokers provide advice and guidance on the types of coverage that you need and will support you in arranging personal coverage.
