7 Thoughts while Driving a Big Motorhome for the very first time

Driving a motorhome rental for the first time can be a very intimidating and stressful experience, but it's a skill that can be easily learned -- with a little practice. It’s particularly true if your usual day to day car is compact and you’re switching between a tiny vehicle, and jumping into the cab of a 7 metre mammoth of a motorhome. It's natural to feel nervous the first time you try driving a motorhome.

It’s like anything in that the more you do it, the better your skills will get. Here’s a few thoughts that can run through your mind as you’re driving off on your first motorhome trip.

What Did They Just Say?

It can be overwhelming when you pick up your vehicle and get presented with an overload of information. How will I remember everything I need to know? Thank goodness for the tutorial iPad and instruction cards that were given out prior to leaving. There’s a lot to learn with a new motorhome so do take the instruction manual with you and keep it accessible. It will tell you the usual things like tyre pressures but it will also tell you how to turn the heating on and how to drain wastewater.

What’s With All The Space?

When you first sit down in the driver's seat, it’s important to take the time to adjust it properly so that you can comfortably reach all controls, and pedals. You’ll notice lots of extra space which you’ll need to get used too. Not only does the seat need to be in a comfortable location, but up and down and tilt are just as important for long distance comfort.

Am I Running Low On Diesel?

No, so why is the vehicle slowing down? Sometimes the running of a big diesel vehicle ain’t so smooth. The motorhome can sometimes jolt, speed up, and slow down while making grunting noises. It will just take some time to get used to a different, bigger vehicle running on a different type of fuel. Don’t freak out, it’ll just be doing its thing.

What Use Is The Rear View Mirror?

Why is there even a rear review mirror if my view is obstructed thanks to the toilet and bike racks? It can be strange not seeing as much out the back windows as you’re used to. Take time before you set off to get the angle of your wing mirrors just right, seeing as much of the road behind you as possible. The standard rearview mirror on the windshield (if there even is one) will be pretty useless except for determining if your passengers are walking around or sitting down.

What Was That Noise?

You’re hearing things rattling in the back, and your mind instantly wonders what you haven’t locked, tied down or packed away. Have I not closed the doors properly? Is food rolling around in the fridge? Are the cupboard doors opening? You’ll quickly get into the routine of checking the space and putting away or securing anything that might move while you’re on your road trip.

Stay In Your Lane!

When you’re cruising down the highway it can seem like all the other vehicles on the road are closer than usual because of the size of the motorhome. Just remember to do your bit by sticking to your lane, and concentrating on the road ahead as well as checking your wing mirrors regularly.

Do I Go Now? How About Now? How About Now?

Motorhomes require more reaction time and stopping distance than a normal passenger vehicle due to their size. It can be hard to determine when to go when turning into a road or at intersections. You’ll want to make sure you pull out a little further than normal before making your turn as they need more space. We recommend just taking your time and having a little patience.

As with any new experience, you’ll get more confident at driving a larger vehicle the more you do it. The most important thing to remember during your first days behind the wheel of a motorhome is to go slow and build your confidence one step at a time.

Life begins at the end of your comfort zone, so stay calm and drive on.