Driving Tips for Large Motorhomes

Taking command of a large motorhome and guiding it out onto the road for the first time can be a bit nerve-wracking. Many first-time motorhome owners have only driven small vehicles, and the leap to a Class A seems enormous.

Put your fears at ease

The first step is answering the fear. The common one is that a motorhome that size simply won’t fit on the roads. It will — roads in North America are engineered for vehicles of this size. Think about the fire trucks and construction vehicles that navigate city streets every day.

Take advantage of increased visibility

From the driver’s seat of a Class A you have a commanding view: you sit higher than most of the traffic around you and see a great deal more of the road. You are also extremely visible to everyone else.

Learn your lane placement

A large vehicle takes up more of its lane, so learn a quick reference for the centre line and the shoulder and keep yourself safely between them.

Mind the corners

Your turning radius is not a car’s. Slow down and take a wider line on a right turn.

Use the technology

Back-up and side vision cameras take the guesswork out of reversing.

Know your height

You are much taller now. Know the number so you can go under a marked bridge or through a tunnel with confidence.

Practice makes perfect

It is completely normal to feel apprehensive the first time. Like driving a car, it takes time and practice — and an empty parking lot is the perfect place to get it.