Campervan and Motorhome Speed Limits

While the anticipation of a new road trip can be exhilarating and exciting, it’s essential that you pay attention to the speed limits set in place for motorhomes and campervans. Not quite sure where to start? Don’t worry, as in this guide, we’ll tell you all about the campervan speed limits in the UK and set you up for a safe and compliant journey. 

Understanding the correct campervan speed limits UK is essential for a legal and smooth trip, whether you’re cruising through the countryside or or navigating a busy motorway. Trust us – you don’t want to start your next adventure off with a fine. 

If you’re looking for the perfect campervan to take you on your travels, check out our campervan finance options and find out how you can get an affordable loan for your dream vehicle. 

Do Motorhomes and Campervans Have Speed Limits?

Yes, motorhomes and campervans have specific speed limits that can differ from a car. These can depend on their weight and whether they are towing a trailer. In the UK, speed limits differ based on the type of vehicle you’re driving and the roads you are on. For motorhomes, the speed limit varies depending on their weight, whether they exceed 3.05 tonnes, and if they are towing a trailer.  

Understanding your vehicle’s specifications and the rules of the road is essential to avoid penalties and stay safe on your travels. You should also ensure that you’ve got the correct licence to drive a motorhome before heading off on the road. 

Motorhome and Campervan Speed Limits UK

The speed limits for motorhomes and campervans in the UK are primarily influenced by the weight of the vehicle, and these are divided into two main weight categories: under 3.05 tonnes and over 3.05 tonnes. 

Below, we’ve broken down the speed limits for vehicles in each category, and taken into consideration whether you are towing a trailer or not. Let’s have a look at these speed limits in a bit more detail… 

Under 3.05 Tonnes 

Without a trailer, for motorhomes and campervans that are under 3.05 tonnes, you should adhere to the following speed limits, which are the same for standard cars: 

• 30mph in built-up areas 
• 60mph on single carriageways 
• 70mph on dual carriageways
• 70mph on motorways 

With a trailer, the speed limits change slightly in order to accommodate the extra weight: 

• 30mph in built-up areas
• 50mph on single carriageways
• 60mph on dual carriageways
• 60mph on motorways 

These restrictions are completely necessary to ensure safety for both the driver and other users of the roads. Towing increases the stopping distance and affects handling, particularly if driven at high speeds. If you’re apprehensive about towing, check out our 10 Top Tips for Towing a Caravan for the First Time. 

Over 3.05 Tonnes

For motorhomes and campervans that exceed 3.05 tonnes, the van speed limit UK rules apply. Vehicles over this weight are subject to different speed restrictions. The length of the vehicle can also influence speed limits, especially if it is over 12m. 

If your vehicle does not exceed 12 metres and you are not towing a trailer, follow these speed limits: 

• 30mph in built-up areas
• 50mph on single carriageways 
• 60mph on dual carriageways
• 70mph on motorways 

If your vehicle does not exceed 12 metres but you are towing a trailer, these speed limits apply: 

• 30mph in built-up areas
• 50mph on single carriageways
• 60mph on dual carriageways
• 60mph on motorways 

However, if your vehicle does exceed 12 metres, with or without a trailer, follow these speed limits: 

• 30mph in built-up areas
• 50mph on single carriageways
• 60mph on dual carriageways
• 60mph on motorways 

All of these speed restrictions are crucial for maintaining proper road safety. Larger vehicles take more time to stop and have bigger blind stops, so adhering to these speeds correctly is crucial to keeping drivers on the road safe. 

How to Determine The Weight of Your Motorhome or Campervan

Before you take to the road, it is critical to find out the exact weight of your motorhome to make sure that you’re following the correct UK speed limits. You can do this by taking your motorhome or campervan to a public weighbridge, where its weight can be accurately measured. You can also check the manufacturer’s information which should include the unladen weight of the vehicle. 

Are Motorhomes and Campervans Allowed in the Fast Lane? 

Motorhomes that weigh over 3.5 tonnes are not allowed in the last lane (otherwise known as the outside lane) of a motorway if it has more than three lanes. This rule is in place to keep the flow of traffic smooth and ensure that heavier vehicles do not slow down faster-moving traffic. 

Motorhomes and campervans can also use the outside lane of dual carriageways and motorways with three lanes or fewer. However, for motorways that have four lanes, vehicles over 3.5 tonnes must stick to the first three lanes and avoid the outside lane. This ensures the highest safety for all road users. 

Tips for Driving a Motorhome and Campervan Safely 

As well as adhering to the speed limits mentioned above, these larger vehicles require some different driving techniques when compared to a car. Here are some tips for a safe motorhome and campervan driving experience in the UK: 

• Check tyres and fluids – Ensure that your tyres are inflated to the correct pressure and check all of your fluid levels such as oil, water, and brake fluid. 
• Plan your route – Before setting off on the road, make sure to choose routes that are suitable for larger vehicles and avoid narrow roads and areas with tight turns. Use a sat nav for larger vehicles if possible. 
• Adjust mirrors properly – Remember to adjust your mirrors in order to maximise visibility as blind spots are larger in these vehicles. Consider adding extended mirrors if needed. 
• Overtaking – Only overtake other cars when it’s safe and you have ample visibility. Remember that these vehicles accelerate slower than cars. 

Stay Safe on The Roads With an Auto Finance Loan 

Now that you’re clued up on the motorhome and campervan speed limits UK, it’s time to start exploring. At Auto Finance, we make vehicle finance easy. We’ll communicate directly with the UK’s top dealers to secure your perfect vehicle at the best possible price! And, we offer exclusive loan options, allowing everyone to have the opportunity to apply for finance, even if you’ve got a poor credit history. 

If you’re struggling to find out how much you can afford to pay towards a campervan or motorhome, use our budget calculator for vehicle finance. This easy tool will give you an estimate of your monthly repayments. 

Still unsure? Then please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Tell us what vehicle you want and your budget and a member of our team will be more than happy to assist.