A Motorhome Guide to Germany’s Autobahn

Germany is a top-rated choice for motorhome travellers with its diverse cities, friendly people, breath-taking landscapes and epic annual events. What makes it even more enticing is the winding, well designed Autobahn. This system of highways will get you from A to B in record speed so you can spend more time soaking up the sights of this great country.

What is the Autobahn?

Germany’s Autobahn is a driving dream with endless roads and no speed limit. The spider web of highways were all designed for high-speed driving. The Autobahn features myriad design features which make it extremely safe for driving on including:

• At least two full lanes in each direction

• Double-sided guardrails

• Frequent toilet stops and off road parking

• Hundreds of emergency telephones

• Centre garden strip

• Freeze-resistant concrete

Head Out On the Highway

Driving a motorhome can be daunting, particularly if you’re the one in control of a large, high profile vehicle in a foreign country. The Autobahn is well designed, and just like anything, the more you practice, the better you’ll get. Driving a motorhome on the Autobahn is a smooth, and enjoyable way to see Germany once you’re used to it. As with driving any vehicle, it’s important to remember the following:

• Always check your mirrors

• Keep an eye on road signage

• Know the height and width of your motorhome

• Indicate appropriately to signal your intentions to other drivers

• Utilise the on and off ramps for gaining enough speed before hitting the Autobahn

Keep On Keeping Right

The safest rule of them all: stay in the mellower right-hand lane while driving on the Autobahn, especially if it’s your first time on this highway. Use the left-hand lane only for passing, or if you’re travelling extremely fast, which you probably won’t be, due to the weight and shape of your motorhome. While it’s not illegal to be in the left-hand lane, if you’re travelling a slower speed, you may get the odd driver flashing their headlights for you to let them pass.

Need for Speed

How fast are you allowed to drive on the Autobahn? Well, if your motorhome exceeds 3.5 tonnes in weight, you’re limited to driving 80 kph (49 mph). The minimum speed a vehicle must go on the Autobahn is 60 kph (37 mph). Anything lower than 60 kph could be considered dangerous as the speed discrepancies will be getting too big. It’s an unspoken rule that you shouldn’t get on the autobahn - even in the far right lane - if you aren’t going to keep up.

Unless otherwise stated on road signage (or your motorhome exceeds 3.5 tonnes as stated above) the “recommended” speed of 130 kph (80 mph) is a safe bet for driving, especially if you’re new to the Autobahn. While there is no mandated speed limit for some vehicle classes, there are rules and regulations in place (keep an eye out for temporary road signs) for specific conditions:

• In areas with high rates of accidents

• In sections that are under construction

• Busy urban areas

• Bad weather

Another interesting point to mention is that it’s a rigorous process to get a driver’s license in Germany. Because of this, you can be sure that the road isn’t swarming with hooligans. Along with the strict rules about overtaking/passing, this high standard of driving helps to keep the Autobahn safe even at high speeds.

Time for Refreshments

Toilet stops, food and drink breaks, fuel stations, hotels and a place to park and stretch those legs are plentiful while cruising the Autobahn. Service areas are open 24 hours and are signposted along the way, so you’re aware of what’s coming up with plenty of time to stop. Tank and Rast is the biggest provider on the Autobahn and operates 390 service areas around the country, including 50 with hotels and 350 with gas stations. When it comes time to rest, Germany has excellent camping facilities. Book in advance, especially during the busy season as they can fill up fast.

Sound the Alarm

In the event of a breakdown or other emergency, you’re never far from getting the help you need. There are plenty of roadside telephones located along the Autobahn. It's essential to keep a lane free for emergency services if an accident or traffic jam occurs. Unless it's unavoidable, please don’t stop your motorhome on the Autobahn as this is illegal.

Location, Location, Location

The Autobahn highway system is located right throughout Germany, so it’s easy to experience at least one or two during your motorhome holiday. Pick up your rental in Frankfurt, Berlin or Munich and head off on one of our exciting, adventure-packed itineraries. If you’re travelling through September-October, then it makes perfect sense to attend the world-renowned Oktoberfest. We also recommend visiting The Black Forest as another road trip worthy region in southwest Germany.

Don’t let the high speeds deter you! Driving on the Autobahn can be a fun way to navigate this country, and if you stay safe, then a motorhome rental in Germany will go off without a hitch. It’s not the roads that make it so, but the fairy tale castles, charming towns and vibrant cities. Experience everything Deutschland offers.