Driving a motorhome

By the end of this topic you can

• You can check whether your licence covers the motorhome you plan to drive.
• You can find the height, length and weight of the motorhome and plan a route around them.
• You can turn and reverse while allowing for tail swing and rear overhang.
• You can brake and handle hills safely in a heavy vehicle.
• You can prepare the motorhome and passengers before setting off.

What you need to know and understand

• In Ontario, a Class G licence covers a vehicle or combination up to 11,000 kg, provided any towed vehicle is not over 4,600 kg.
• Ontario requires a Z endorsement to drive any motor vehicle with air brakes; other provinces have their own air brake endorsements.
• In BC, a house trailer endorsement or a higher class is needed for heavier towed units, so check ICBC before towing a car or trailer behind a motorhome.
• A long rear overhang swings out the opposite way when you turn sharply. This is called tail swing.
• A motorhome needs a much longer stopping distance than a car.
• Everyone on board must be seated with a seatbelt where one is provided while the vehicle is moving.

Licence check before you rent or buy

Look at the vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating and whether it has air brakes. In Ontario, most motorhomes under 11,000 kg can be driven on a G licence, but air brakes require the Z endorsement. Other provinces set different weight limits and classes, so check with your provincial licensing office or rental company. Learner and novice drivers may face extra limits on what they can drive or tow.

Know your numbers

Write the motorhome's height, including roof air conditioners and antennas, on a note near the driver's seat. Watch for posted clearance signs on bridges, underpasses, gas station canopies and drive-throughs. Plan fuel stops where large vehicles can get in and out, and avoid roads with tight turns or very steep grades where you can.

Turning, tail swing and space

Because the rear wheels sit well forward of the back, the rear end swings out when you turn. Before turning, check the mirror on the opposite side so the back does not clip a car, pole or pump. Pull further into the intersection before turning so the rear wheels clear the curb.

• Use both large side mirrors constantly; you cannot see directly behind.
• Keep to the right lane on multi-lane roads and leave a large gap ahead.
• Watch crosswinds on open highways and bridges, especially when the motorhome is high-sided.
• Use a spotter when reversing; many motorhomes have a backup camera, but it does not replace a person outside.

Hills and braking

The weight of a motorhome makes the brakes work hard. Shift to a lower gear before a long downhill so the engine helps hold your speed, and brake firmly and briefly rather than riding the brakes the whole way. Uphill, expect to slow down and use pull-outs to let traffic pass.

Common mistakes

• Forgetting the roof height and hitting a canopy or bridge. Keep the height posted on the dash.
• Turning too early so the rear wheels climb the curb. Pull forward further before turning.
• Riding the brakes on long downhills. Use a lower gear.
• Leaving loose items inside that fly around when braking. Secure cupboards and gear before moving.
• Letting passengers walk around while driving. Everyone stays seated and buckled.

Test yourself: Driving a motorhome

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.