Setting off checklist
Here are some of the things you need to do when you head off with your motorhome:
- Check the vehicle fluids, tyre pressures, and wheel bolt/nuts torque.
- Turn off the gas at the cylinder, switch off and disconnect electrics (mains bollard first).
- Retract/disconnect awning if applicable.
- Securely stow all loose items evenly around vehicle, check windows, roof lights, internal doors, shower door and cupboards are closed and the habitation door is locked, retract/stow step if fitted, remove shower head and place on floor.
- Rotate and lock front seats facing forward, put handbrake on.
- Raise the corner steadies or levelling system, if fitted.
- Remove and stow chocks and EHU cable.
- Switch fridge to 12v / auto if applicable.
- Pull clear of the pitch and check the area for anything left behind.
- Empty the fresh- and waste-water tanks and clean out any toilet cassette at service stop-off point.
- Close hob lid, secure grill pan and oven shelves.
On the move
- If your vehicle is high sided, take care in high winds and drive to the weather conditions.
- Be considerate to other traffic and pull over when safe to do so if travelling more slowly.
- Take note of your vehicle dimensions and overhangs.
- Take frequent breaks to avoid driving while tired, if your motorhome is large you may need to plan these stops before you set off.
Setting up
Once you’ve reached your destination, you can set up your motorhome:
- When you first arrive on site, ask whether there’s a motorhome service stop-off point. If so, you can fill up with fresh water before you reach your pitch.
- Once on your pitch, use ramps or levelling system to level your vehicle as necessary.
- Switch off your engine and remove the keys from the ignition.
- Wind down the corner steadies if you have any.
- Connect electric cable to vehicle first, then to the electrical bollard. Never walk around with a live cable in your hand.
- Switch the fridge to mains electric or gas (as necessary).
- Add toilet blue and some fresh water.
- Turn on the gas.
- Turn on the water heater when you’re sure it’s full of water, this will take 15 to 20 mins to heat up.
- Set up cassette or drive away awning as required.