french speed limits for motorhomes

If youre taking your motorhome from the UK to France, there are a couple of options on how to get over there- ferry or Eurotunnel. January 2015 (10) Ive written to MMM magazine and followed their advice but to no avail. Charity Is it current today? The normal speed limit on dual carriageways (divided highways) is 110 km/hr; The normal speed limit on main roads is 80 km/hr (outside built-up areas). - 14 Comments. It also means you are less likely to speed and you wont be at risk of any penalty points. April 2009 (3) Driving in Europe after BREXIT? December 2012 (6) As for the French speed limits, go by what is signed on the individual length of road. France has some incredible destinations for camper holidays- see below for great itinerary ideas. Each passenger should be seated with their seatbelts on before the motorhome disembarks. This often applies if youve had your base vehicle upgraded. Motorhomes with a trailer attached are prohibited from using the outside lane indefinitely. June 2016 (13) Section I) For vehicles towing a caravan (or trailer) where the vehicle has a gross train mass of less than 3.5 tonne and for a solo motorhome which has a gross vehicle weight under 3.5 tonne; unless otherwise signposted and on dry roads the speed limit in kilometres per hour (kph) is: , Section II) A solo motorhome which has a gross vehicle weight over 3.5 tonne; unless otherwise signposted and on dry roads the speed limit in kilometres per hour is: . As of the 01 January 2021, France have decided all vehicles over 3.5 tonnes must have blind-spot stickers, even visiting foreign vehicles. March 2013 (7) Also, as an Amazon affiliate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Do not drive until you are happy you comply with the local laws. February 2019 (13) If youre new to our website (welcome! February 2011 (6) Its 50kmh in built up areas, 80kmh on single carriageway /trunk roads, 90 kmh on dual carriageways and 90kmh on motorways. But I urge you to take some time to explore. France Passion is a collection of businesses and locations across France which allow motorhomes and campervans to stay overnight on their land. However, if your motorhome weighs more, drivers must stick to a speed limit of 60mph. Click here to see our Privacy and Disclosure Policy. You should have a European Claim Form provided by your insurer before you leave. This doesnt always work, (especially in August or between October-March when many campsites shut) but there always seems to be something around which works out. August 2011 (8) The town name starts the limit; a red diagonal bar through the town name is the derestriction sign. Gross Vehicle Weight: 2740kg There's much more to read, just nip back to the top and use the menu or search box. American Express is only taken in large stores (not at tolls and often not at fuel stations). August 2010 (7) (i.e. Similarly, motorhomes that have a weight exceeding 3.5 tonnes may only overtake if it is fitted with a speed limiter. Search my posts about motorhoming, wild parking, taking a van to Europe, tips for new owners and much more. The maximum speed for private vehicles under 3.5t is 130kph (81mph) on motorways but speed limits are lower for cars towing caravans and for motorhomes over 3.5t in weight. June 2008 (7) The Complete Guide to Motorhome Touring in France How to find and use aires and motorhome stopovers around Europe, Step-by-step guide to motorhome wild camping in France, how we find LPG in Europe for our motorhome, step-by-step guide on dealing with a road traffic accident in Europe, changes affecting travelling to Europe with a dog after BREXIT, Essential motorhome checks to do before you travel, Wales Road Trip itinerary -15 unmissable places to visit, Brit Stops free Motorhome parking in UK and Ireland, Kat | Motorhome Travel blogger | This post may contain affiliate links, 10 EPIC UK Winter Road Trips You NEED to Drive, The ONLY North Coast 500 Itinerary & Route PLANNER You Need, 50 EPIC Campervan Gift ideas (they actually want!). Sure its been done to death but I cant find all the info. Many thanks. September 2015 (6) March 2008 (2) December 2010 (6) For caravans (and motrohomes) under 3.5 tonnes, the limit is 50kmh in built up areas, 90kmh on single carriageway /trunk roads, 110 kmh on dual carriageways and 130kmh motorways. French Speed Limits - Motorhome Forums, Motorhome Discussion, Motorhome I think it depends on the vehicle- and you know that better than us. July 2009 (4) November 2018 (13) August 2009 (7) Its not as hard as it sounds. But recently we have been caught twice by speed cameras between 3And 5 kilometres per hour over the limit resulting in 90 euro fines. Single carriageway roads without a central reservation separator 80kph (50mph); (reduce to 70kph inadverse weather or rain) This came into effect from July 1st 2018. If you struggle getting up a steep-ish hill in the UK, youll really struggle in proper mountains like the Alps or the Pyrenees. Water and snacks- just in case you run into traffic or breakdown somewhere remote. Weve spent a lot of time motorhoming in southern France. The national speed limit in France is as follows: Motorways: 130 kph (80 mph) Dual Carriageways: 110 kph (68 mph) Main Roads Outside Built-up Areas: 80 kph (49 mph) Main Roads Within Built-up Areas: 50 kph (31 mph) The ring road that surrounds Paris, the Boulevard Peripherique, has its own speed limit of 70 kph (43 mph). Informative post.France is fab. It is the weight of the vehicle, loaded with luggage and passengers to its maximum permitted capacity. Motorhome Driving Limits in France - anchorpointmotorhomes.com March 2014 (9) This means that no passenger should use the toilet, cook or move from their seat during any journey. By continuing to use the site you agree that we can save cookies on your device. November 2014 (13) And the beauty of exploring with a home on wheels is that you can drive to wherever the weather is best for you! We hope you found the video useful. Extract from Lemondeducampingcar.fr for licences and speed limits in France, make of it as you will. The law comes into effect from November 1 st, through March, and there are fines of 135 for non-compliance. April 2016 (13) Section 11 HOWEVER, expect the occasional older French resident to merrily sail onto the roundabout and expect you to stop for them. Its usually warm, especially in the south, but there arent huge crowds and its easy to get access to popular tourist places. This helps to pay for the upkeep of this site. This site uses cookies to give you the best possible experience. Motorhome touring in France- Other useful things you might need, Motorhome Travel in France- where to stay. We enjoy taking the ferry because it cuts down on driving time- were travelling whilst were sleeping. When raining, the limits are respectively lowered to 80, 100, and 110 km/h. Some of our articles, therefore, contain affiliate links. Full Member. Sometimes the queues can be HOURS long- and that was before BREXIT. France Passion- approved overnight motorhome parking scheme in France, Motorhome and campervan service points in France, Driving tips for France motorhome travels, Driving in France- what to do in the event of a road traffic accident, More useful things to know when motorhoming in France, Doing Laundry in France while motorhome touring, France Road Trip & Motorhome Travel Planner, FREE France motorhome travel checklist HERE, places you can visit on your France road trip, best and biggest Christmas markets in Europe, incredible places to see around the Paris area, heres what we recommend and where to find it, 11 Unmissable France road trip itineraries and ideas. Motorhome legislation relates to up to 3500kg so 3501kg would be captured in any restriction. RELATED: If you are planning a winter motorhome trip, read this first. To keep up-to-date with the speed limits for a motorhome, visit the government website. General Community. December 2008 (5) August 2018 (10) over 3.5 tonne see Section IV), Section IV) Any vehicle which has a gross train mass over 3.5 tonne, towing a trailer or caravan; unless otherwise signposted and on dry roads the speed limit in kilometres per hour is: . This information is provided to keep you informed to the best of our knowledge at this given point in time and may be subject to change. Can You Overtake On A Motorway When Driving A Motorhome? January 2008 (2) I can confirm that our information is correct, I have confirmed it with the legal department of the Automobile Club de France (ACF) and a motorcycle policeman that I met in France earlier this year. This is an important change for Irish drivers to be aware of in France. August 2022 (11) October 2009 (4) Side facing seats such as dining areas cannot be used for travelling on as they will not have a seatbelt. Gross Train Mass: 2995kg (i.e. The national speed limit is depicted by a white circular sign with a black stripe diagonally across it from right to left. Commentdocument.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "a1a8b53fab836bc1cc5e9b796b90a0f2" );document.getElementById("fe07b4a206").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Solo Motorhomes over 3.5 tonnes et 50km/h en ville, mme dans le cas o un panneau autorise la limitation 70 km/h. Even if you have seven other passengers to take care of the vehicle should anything happen, turning off your engine is the right thing to do. December 2019 (10) Again, if the weight of your motorhome is less than 3.5 tonnes then the speed limit is 70mph. Some bridges or narrow roads may restrict the width or height of your motorhome. Lets take a look at everything you need to know about motorhomes and their speed limits as well as the driving standards that should be expected when on the road. December 2009 (2) All opinions remain our own. February 2010 (4) May 2009 (3) March 2020 (16) July 2016 (11) The best time to visit France with a motorhome, campervan, caravan or any other vehicle is whenever you have time to explore! Very well presented, easy to understand considering the complexity of the subject. P: 061379903E: info@anchorpointmotorhomes.comWe'd love to hear from you! (A true Scot). October 2021 (12) Take a list of what is legally required with you and check it off one by one as you are given the handover. April 2014 (12) Here is a list of things we highly recommend when motorhoming in France, but which are NOT essential: Once youve got a vehicle to tour around France in, the next thing to consider is what sort of motorhoming holiday you want to have and where are you going to camp/ park up overnight? France no longer has the stupid prioritie a droite rule, (which meant you had to stop ON the roundabout for anyone coming onto it!) If travelling to France from Ireland in your motorhome, be sure to take note that the French driving limitshave changed, effective as of 1st July 2018. We ended up putting it on the back of our motorbikes, or specifically choosing a campsite with laundry facilities. For touring caravan insurance information please click here, For motorhome insurance information please click here, For static insurance and park homes please visit www.leisuredays.co.uk. Motorhome Facts Motorhome Insurance. They are not only welcomed, they are provided for, with copious motorhome parking spots and approved overnight stopovers called Aires (more on that shortly!). Two-axle truck pulling 3-axle (or more) trailer, exceeding 26,000 lbs total weight: 70. As stated be someone earlier driving licenses are indeed important. In general the French do not tip. May 2014 (5) In the event of an accident, all parties complete and sign the form at the scene and then send a copy to your insurer for assessment. Starting at 110km/h and reducing in rainy weather to 100km/h and again to 50km/h when visibility is down to 50m. Some are paid and will have a sign somewhere telling you what to do to pay; some are free. Speed Limits The standard speed limit on French Autoroutes is 130km/h. While the sight of snow may look pretty, you must clean as much as you can from your vehicle before beginning your journey. Timezone GMT+1 (or one hour ahead in BST) France is always one hour ahead of the UK, no matter what. Some people pop over on the Eurotunnel for a weekend break. Cover only available to UK residents (including Northern Ireland). In towns 50kph (31mph). They may leave the few coppers of loose change on the plate but will remove everything from a Euro up. January 2010 (3) Do I need a breathalyser to drive in France? Whats The Difference Between A Hill And A Mountain? Unlike in the UK, there are some things you legally MUST carry in your vehicle when Motorhoming in France. Aires are approved overnight motorhome parking places, often provided and maintained by the local commune. October 2008 (3) (If you do need an IDP, heres anin-depth guide on how to get an International Driving Permitand which one(s) you needfrom a UK post office. Motorhome Reviews This is the laden weight of the caravan (or trailer) plus the laden weight of the towing vehicle. Planning to go touring in France with a motorhome or campervan? Thanks for getting in touch. Our cookies dont collect personal information. There are very few downsides, but the biggest is the delays in summer. Weight restrictions apply when caravanning in France: For caravans (and motorhomes) under 3.5 tonnes, the limit is 50kmh in built up areas, 90kmh on single carriageway /trunk roads, 110 kmh on dual carriageways and 130kmh motorways. If youre not sure, steer clear- theres nowhere to turn around halfway up! Cookies are small text files placed on your device that remember your preferences and some details of your visit. So, if I get this straight. If you dont have refillable gas bottles in your motorhome, you will need a different attachment in order to be able to connect to a French gas bottle. The scariest thing about driver in France are the ummm older generation who dont realise that priorite a droite is no longer a thing (more on that below!). Everyone should do this at least one, Brittany- one of our favourite areas in France. In 2012 the French said that riders would have to wear reflective clothing when riding and if they break down. Tel: 01422 396 769. You collect a ticket at the machine as you enter the road system and pay (either a person or machine) at the end in cash or on a card. You might even wish to fit anextra camper habitation door lockand never leave your vehicle unattended in an unsecured area. If youd like to share our experiences of motorhoming in France, watch this video to see our experiences with French tolls, motorhome campsites and driving in France! Heres everything you need to know about motorhome blind spot warning stickers and if you need them. Small trailers are exempt from having brakes, however if they do they must work. Often they can drive a small car light trailer combination on a B license without having to take the B+E test. ClosedSaturdays, Sundays & Bank Holidays. that only weights say, 900kg, the size of the caravan and its weight is basically ignored and the speed limit is based on the maximum PERMISSIBLE towing weight of the car limiting the top speed to 90kph yet I could also tow a caravan that weighs say 1500kg on a car weighing 1500kg (providing the car can tow it) even though the outfit would be normally unsafe at speeds up to 130kph?? French Speed Limits if over 3.5t Westerham Womble Mar 27, 2019 1 2 3 Next Westerham Womble Free Member Feb 26, 2019 49 33 Westerham Common sometimes Funster No 58,773 MH Low Profile Exp 3 years Mar 27, 2019 #1 Since the change last June I'd be grateful if someone can confirm the correct speed limits on the various classes of road. If you get extraordinary service for something then that is up to you but dont feel compelled to do it. Like the rest of Europe there is a compulsory minimum wage and people are not allowed to work for tips alone. July 2018 (9) There is an excellent article explaining Priorite a droite, with all the corresponding road signs, right here, Speed Limits are as follows (unless otherwise signed!). March 2016 (11) Want to rent a vehicle for your road trip? Bordeaux and the Dune du Pilat- make sure you allow time to visit some of the incredible vineyards in the area! September 2016 (12) Check in advance with the company what kit they will provide with the vehicle and what you will need to bring. Motorhome Rallies & Meets . If you are taking your caravan to France, then there are also two speed limits. The speed limits for motorhomes that have an unladen weight of less than 3050kg and no more than 8 passenger seats are as follows : The speed limit for motorhomes with an unladen weight of more than 3050kg or can seat more than 8 passengers are as follows: Moving around your motorhome while the vehicle is in motion is against the law. New French Speed Limits | DIY Motorhome. For Self Build Motorhome Seems that M. Hollande has found the answer to the national debt problem. August 2021 (13) November 2013 (7) There is an element of confusion amongst the French authorities on whether 80 and 90 "speed" stickers should be displayed on the rear of the vehicle, including motorhomes, towing at the lower limits. Offers / Discounts Other roads: 80kph but if the total weight is over 12t the then it reduces to 60kph. Campfire Magazine is supported by its readers. November 2020 (12) This is often at the places where you havent paid in advance- I always try to pay in advance and keep my passport where I know its safe! Find the changes HERE, READ MORE: France Route Planner (with maps), questions you need to consider when renting a motorhome, Discover incredible deals for motorhome/ camper rentals, 10 essential questions to ask before you rent a motorhome, everything you need to know about motorhome blind spot warning stickers. It was on Radio 4 today that they have reduced the speed May 2019 (14) April 2022 (17) If you enjoy visiting vineyards, chateaux or local markets, this might be a good scheme for you. *We work hard to make this the best motorhome blog and road trip website possible, full of helpful content for you. Towing vehicle review, Select month For caravans (and mortorhomes) over 3.5 tonnes the limits are a little different. January 2007 (1) ), visit the Start Here page to find out how we can help you! We do occasionally use campsites in France. - or 110 km/hr in rain. You cant book an aire in advance, and they all have different services available. hmmm a lot of wine was consumed at that meeting. The new speed limits in France have generated some uncertainties for drivers and the French police. Read more:changes affecting travelling to Europe with a dog after BREXIT. This is useful in a large vehicle such as a motorhome as it prevents drivers from exceeding the speed limit making it a safer way to travel. The unladen weight of a vehicle is the weight when it does not have any goods, passengers or any other items on board. July 2010 (6) Grab our FREE wild camping checklist and make it easy for yourself. You can often stay in an aire for 2 or 3 days. Dont forget to grab your FREE motorhoming in France checklist below to help you stay organised. Serving Ireland's motorhome enthusiasts since 1999. For us, we prefer to travel around France and explore different places during our motorhome trips instead of staying in one area. Where do I find the weight of my caravan, motorhome or trailer? Clearly theres need for clarification on this topic. Motorhome speed limits on motorways which are signed at 110kph are 100kph for motorhomes and on Peage motorways (French Toll Motorways) where there is a 130kph limit signed, this allows motorhomes to do 110kph. Dont park anywhere with a sign saying no overnight parking. under 3.5 tonne see Section I), Volvo X590 D5 manual March 2022 (14) In any vehicle.