Exploring and Camping in France via Motorhomes and Campervans: Comprehensive Handbook

Embark on an unforgettable journey through France with your motorhome! This guide will help you navigate the best motorhome campsites, cities, and tips for a smooth trip.

Finding the Perfect Campsite

With guides available online, you can discover some of the top motorhome campsites in France. Remember, some campsites may hold your passport during your stay.

France Passion

France Passion is an approved overnight parking scheme for motorhomes and campervans. By staying on the land of businesses and locations, you can enjoy a meal, buy wine, or produce in exchange for your overnight stay.

Pampering Your Pet

France is dog-friendly, and your furry companion is normally welcome on campsites. However, not all campsites have designated areas for off-leash walks. Ensure you have a muzzle and pet paperwork, such as the AHC, for a hassle-free trip.

Planning Your Holiday

Once you have a vehicle to tour France in, consider the type of motorhoming holiday you'd like. Recommended cities include Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez for glamorous coastal experiences, Lyon for diverse routes, and St. Malo for coastal charm and cultural visits.

Preparing for Departure

Before setting off, fill up with fuel in the UK as France often experiences fuel strikes. There are options for getting to France by ferry or Eurotunnel. Remember to carry essential items like hi-vis reflective jackets, warning triangles, headlight beam converters, and a first aid kit.

On the Road

Speed limits in France are 130 km/h (80 mph) on motorways, 110km/hr (68mph) on major roads, 90 km/h (50 mph) on minor roads, and 50 km/h (31 mph) in built-up areas. Motorhomes with trailers or caravans have lower speed limits, and motorhomes and campervans weighing over 3.5 tonnes have different speed limits.

Driving Requirements

To drive in France, you'll need a passport (or identity card), driving license (in date), motorhome insurance documents, breakdown cover, vehicle V5 logbook, a vehicle that is legally taxed and MOT'd, trailer certification, green card (get from the vehicle insurer), and an International Driving Permit if required.

Motorhome Security

Pay extra attention to motorhome security when travelling in France, and never leave your vehicle unattended in an unsecured area.

Exploring France's Beauties

From gorgeous campsites right by beaches and lakes, to swimming pools, evening entertainment, and kids clubs, France offers a variety of campsite experiences.

Wild Camping

Wild camping in a motorhome in France is possible, but it's important to be respectful and clean up after yourself.

Aires

Aires are approved overnight motorhome parking places in France, often provided and maintained by the local commune. They vary in quality and price, and some offer electric hookup and waste disposal.

Road Trip Accessories

Consider packing snow chains/winter tyres, a red/white warning board sign, spare bulbs for all lights in the vehicle, a torch, fire extinguisher, water and snacks, and a personal travel insurance.

Tolls and Emergency Numbers

Tolls in France are one of the most expensive in Europe, and emergency numbers are 112. Tollpass/ telepass (like e-Movis) or paying-as-you-go by cash or card can be used to pay for tolls.

Additional Tips

Shops often close on Sundays and for a long lunch (between 12-2pm) and some will not open on Wednesday afternoons.
Doing laundry while motorhome touring can be difficult, but many bigger supermarkets in France have washing machines outside.
In the school holidays, it's recommended to book campsites in advance as the best ones get booked up months in advance.

Enjoying France with a Motorhome

France is a popular destination for motorhomers and campervanners, with ample motorhome parking spots and approved overnight stopovers called Aires. With this guide, you're ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through France!

Remember to research changes affecting travelling to Europe with a dog after BREXIT, and ensure your vehicle has the required safety equipment. Happy travels!

Exploring and Camping in France via Motorhomes and Campervans: Comprehensive Handbook