Responsible Motorhoming: The Ultimate Guide to Motorhome Etiquette

The freedom you enjoy when living the motorhome life doesn’t mean you’re so free that any type of behaviour is acceptable. There are certain ‘rules of the road’, as it were, and travellers always have a responsibility to make sure their actions don’t impede enjoyment for others. Understanding and practicing proper motorhome etiquette is important – and in this edition of the Wandahome blog we’ll give many examples. Once you’ve picked your used or brand new motorhome from us, head out on the road, stick by the things in this guide, and have the best time!

On the road etiquette

When you’re on a motorhome journey, one of the most important things to be mindful of is how your driving will affect other road users.

1.      Speed limit and signage

Motorhomes are typically larger and heavier than most of the other domestic vehicles driving on the road, which means that they need more time to both accelerate and brake. Sticking to speed limits is crucial - not only for safety but also for the flow of traffic. Motorhomers should also always follow road signs, remaining aware of the regulations specific to motorhomes (e.g. weight limits on certain roads or bridges).

2.      Mirrors and signals

Due to their size and relative bulk, motorhomes have more significant blind spots than drivers would encounter in a car. Motorhome drivers should regularly check their mirrors and use indicators well in advance to signal any lane change or turn. This is essential etiquette which helps other drivers understand on the road intentions and reduces the risk of any accidents.

3.      Safe distance

Motorhomes require more distance to stop due to their weight than drivers are used to with cars. Keeping a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead ensures you have ample time to react to sudden stops or changes in the traffic conditions in front of you.

4.      Traffic

If you're driving your motorhome on a single-lane road and notice that there’s a line of traffic forming behind you, it's the done thing to pull over at an appropriate moment (i.e. when it’s safe to do so) to allow these vehicles to pass. Holding up traffic may cause frustration for the drivers behind you, causing them to take the risk of potentially dangerous overtaking manoeuvres. Traffic courtesy is really important.

5.      Petrol stations

Motorhomes often take longer to refuel than you might expect. When you visit a petrol station to refuel, be mindful of your time at the pump. If you're planning to take a break, move your motorhome to a parking spot to free up the pump for others to use.

At the campsite etiquette

When you’ve parked up at a campsite, one of the most important things to be mindful of is how your behaviour will affect the experience other people have.

1.      Noise

Managing your noise level is a very important part of campsite etiquette. Sound travels easily in open spaces, and noisy conversations, loud music or even running engines can – and will - disturb your fellow campers. Make sure you stick to the generally accepted quiet hours. These are typically between 10pm and 7am, and they ensure that there’s a peaceful environment for all.

2.      Personal space

Campsites can vary in size, but respecting the boundaries of neighbouring pitches is crucial. Avoid walking through others' campsites and keep your belongings within your designated area. This consideration helps maintain privacy and reduces potential conflicts.

3.      Rubbish

Always get rid of your rubbish in the appropriate way, to keep your campsite clean and pleasant. There will be designated waste bins for rubbish and recycling, and these must always be used correctly. For the greywater and blackwater from your motorhome, some campsites will include disposal facilities which you can use (following camp guidelines).

4.      Dogs

If you’re travelling in your motorhome with your dog (or dogs), always keep them on a lead and under control. Doing so will ensure they don’t wander off and disturb other people’s pitches. Clean up after your dog in a timely fashion. Some campsites have specific pet-friendly areas. You should use these to give your pets the space to roam about without infringing on the enjoyment of others.

Etiquette for other activities

There are other activities associated with motorhoming which also require you to be mindful of your behaviour.

1.      Generator

Generators can be noisy and emit fumes, both of which could potentially disturb nearby campers. If you need to use a generator, use it sparingly and only during designated hours (if applicable). Take care to position your generator as far away from neighbouring pitches as possible. You could also consider investing in a quieter model.

2.      BBQ

When you’re using a BBQ for some al fresco foodie fun, be mindful of the smoke and food smells generated by your cooking. These can drift into neighbouring pitches on campsites and annoy people – particularly the smoke. Position your barbecue downwind and keep the area around it clean to avoid attracting wildlife or insects.

3.      Music and games

Outdoor activities are part of the fun of those days when your motorhome is parked up on a pitch at a site – but you should always remember that loud music or games can disturb others. Keep the volume of your music system at a reasonable level, don’t play games that run the risk of trespassing on someone else’s pitch, and always be considerate of any designated quiet hours. As mentioned earlier these are typically between 10pm and 7am.

Environmental etiquette

Whether you’ve parked up at a campsite or out on the road, it’s important to be mindful of how your behaviour will affect the environment.

1.      Impact

Stick to established roads and trails to minimise your environmental impact. Avoid driving or parking on vegetation, as this can damage fragile ecosystems.

2.      Leave no trace

Everything you bring onto a campsite should leave with you when you drive away in your motorhome. This applies to absolutely all waste you generate, including food scraps and packaging. Leaving things exactly as you find them, in other words leaving no trace that you’ve been there, will ensure that the site remains pristine for future visitors.

3.      Water

Be mindful of your water usage, especially in areas that have limited resources. Turn off taps when they’re not in use, and make sure that you fix any leaks as soon as possible. Similarly, conserve electricity by using energy-efficient appliances and eco-lighting.

4.      Wildlife

Observe wildlife from a distance and never feed animals when you’re out in the countryside. Doing so can disrupt their natural routines, and make animals dependent on food given by humans, which can be harmful to their health and usual behaviours.

Social etiquette

There’s no doubt that when you’re out on the road you will run into other people – at campsites or at other places where motorhome users gather. Though they are mostly common sense and natural human behaviour, there are accepted ways of behaving under these circumstances.

1.      Greetings

A simple wave or hello to your neighbours can go a long way towards fostering a friendly atmosphere on a motorhome campsite. Respecting privacy and being courteous is essential. Avoid loud conversations near other campers and keep your activities within your designated area. Be approachable and willing to help too, as this will make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.

2.      Help

Offering assistance to fellow motorhome users in need, whether with a mechanical issue or sharing tips (about the area, the vehicle, the facilities etc) helps to create a supportive community. You should always ask before intervening, though, to make sure that your well-intentioned help is actually welcome.

In Conclusion

Almost all of the things described in this edition of our blog will help you make a lot more of your motorhome experience – whether you’re on a weekend trip, and extended holiday or have chosen to live in it full time! Practicing good etiquette ensures that everyone can enjoy the beauty of the open road and the lovely campsites along it. By being considerate of others, respecting the environment and following basic rules of courtesy, you are contributing to a positive and memorable experience for all. Isn’t knowing everyone’s having a good time better than only making sure you do?

Here at Wandahome we can help you pick the right vehicle to enjoy your motorhome holidays, whether it’s a new or used model. Happy travels - and enjoy your adventures!