Motorhomes Under 3,500kg: Everything You Need to Know

The type of driving licence you have will influence your decision. However, there are other factors to consider as well.

In this guide, we’ll break down;

• Why the 3,500kg limit is important,
• The pros and cons of choosing a motorhome under 3,500kg, and,
• When it might be worth considering a larger vehicle.

The 3,500kg weight limit is significant because it relates to the weight of vehicle your driving license allows you to drive.

If you passed your driving test after 1st January 1997, you can only drive vehicles up to 3,500kg on a standard Category B licence. To drive anything heavier, you’ll need to upgrade to a C1 licence. This involves additional testing and a medical examination.

If you’re buying your first motorhome, staying under the 3,500kg limit means avoiding the hassle and expense of upgrading your licence.

But it’s not just about legal requirements. The are several other things to consider.

Motorhomes under 3,500kg are popular for good reasons. Here are some key benefits:

• Licence Simplicity: With a standard Category B licence, you can drive any motorhome or campervan that weighs less than 3,500kg. There’s no need to worry about taking extra tests or meeting medical requirements.
• Better Fuel Efficiency: Generally, motorhomes under 3,500kg are more fuel-efficient. They tend to have smaller engines and lighter builds, which means lower running costs.
• Easier to Manoeuvre: Lighter motorhomes are typically easier to drive and park, especially for newcomers.
• More Campsite Flexibility: Some campsites have weight restrictions for larger vehicles. With a motorhome under 3,500kg, you will have more options when it comes to where you can stay. This is especially true in more remote or rural locations.

While there are plenty of advantages, motorhomes under 3,500kg are not for everyone. Here are a few potential downsides:

• Limited Payload: One of the main trade-offs for staying under the 3,500kg limit is the restricted payload, or Maximum Authorised Mass. This is the amount of weight you can add to the vehicle in the form of passengers, luggage, and equipment. For larger families or those who like to travel with a lot of gear, this could be a dealbreaker.
• Smaller Living Space: Motorhomes under 3,500kg usually have more compact living spaces. If you are planning extended trips or want a lot of room to stretch out, you might find these models too cramped.
• Fewer Luxury Features: Larger motorhomes over 3,500kg often come with additional luxury features. For example, larger kitchens, bathrooms, and more advanced entertainment systems. While many motorhomes under 3,500kg are still comfortable, they might not have all the high-end features you are after.

It’s worth noting that all Auto-Trail campervans fall under the 3,500kg limit. So, if you are thinking of opting for a campervan instead of a motorhome, you won’t need to worry about licence restrictions.

For some, there are times when you might want to consider a larger motorhome. Here are some situations where upgrading to a motorhome over 3,500kg might make sense:

• You Need More Space: If you’re planning long trips or living in your motorhome full time, the extra space and amenities of a larger vehicle can make a big difference. Larger motorhomes often come with full-sized kitchens, bigger beds, and more storage.
• You’re Travelling with a Large Group: For families or groups, a motorhome under 3,500kg might not be big enough. A larger motorhome can provide more sleeping areas, seating, and room for everyone.
• You Want More Features: High-end features like king-sized beds, bigger water tanks, and advanced technology are often only available in larger motorhomes. If luxury is a priority, it might be worth upgrading your licence to access these models.
• You Don’t Mind Taking the C1 Test: Upgrading to a C1 licence isn’t as difficult as it sounds. If you’re want a larger motorhome, it’s worth going through the process of upgrading your licence.