How to travel in a motorhome without being fined: type of license, maximum speed and differences between parking and camping

The coronavirus pandemic has positioned motorhomes as a safer and freer way to enjoy a vacation without capacity or mobility restrictions. However, first-timers must take into account a series of concepts to avoid being fined and maintain civility in the destination towns, which are already verifying the increase in the arrival of motorhomes. These standards, Spanish association of the caravanning industry and trade.

What type of license is needed to drive a motorhome

The General Traffic Regulations determine that if we drive a vehicle whose Maximum Authorized Mass (MMA) is equal to or less than 3,500 kg (95% of motorhomes, campers and caravans), we will not need any special license, the B1 is enough to be able to circulate. correctly. If our vehicle exceeds those 3,500 kg of MMA, then it is necessary to have the C1, especially for leisure vehicles.

What maximum speed allows driving with motorhomes

In terms of speed, motorhomes weighing less than 3,500 kg will be able to travel, like passenger cars, at a maximum of 120 km/h on motorways and dual carriageways and 90 km/h on conventional roads. For vehicles over 3,500kg, the limits change to 90km/h on motorways and dual carriageways and 80km/h on conventional roads.

Where can you park a motorhome?

Aseicar explains that motorhomes can park in authorized areas of urban or interurban public roads, in accordance with traffic and circulation regulations, under the same conditions as a car or any other vehicle of its characteristics in terms of volume and weight; both day and night. Of course, you must always keep in mind that:

1. The road markings delimiting the square cannot be exceeded.

2. The perimeter of the vehicle itself must be respected exclusively, that is, you cannot open windows or deploy awnings or take out camping items.

3. The only contact with the ground has to be through the wheels. Chocks will only be allowed if parked on a slope.

4. There can be no emission or discharge of liquids to the outside.

Despite this possibility, the association explains that in Spain there are already more than 1,000 Motorhome Areas distributed throughout the geography where you can park and spend the night comfortably; in addition to emptying, charging water tanks and/or charging batteries.

Where can you camp with a motorhome?

The only places allowed for camping are the campsites and the areas specifically set aside for it. There are also motorhome areas with facilities for draining water, electrical connection and where camping is allowed, that is, open the vehicle’s windows, extend awnings and take out tables and chairs. Free camping, outside these places, is prohibited in our country.