RV trip through Europe - an adventure!
Are you thinking about taking your first RV trip through Europe? Congratulations – it’s bound to be an adventure! There are a few things worth knowing ahead of time, such as the type of driver’s license you’ll need, the importance of a gas adapter, and the convenience of using a toll transponder. In some countries, you’ll also need stickers or warning signs for your RV. Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry – we’ve put together a helpful guide with everything you need to know.
The Freedom of RV Travel
Traveling by RV gives you an incredible sense of freedom. You control the pace, you decide what to see, and the journey itself becomes the destination. It’s a way to explore places you might not otherwise see. For example, flying directly to Alicante and staying in one place for a few weeks offers a certain kind of experience. But if you break the journey into stages, with 4–5 days of travel filled with sightseeing before a shorter stay at your final destination, you’ll create a totally different – and likely richer – experience.
Cost Considerations
With rising costs for hotels, flights, tourist taxes, baggage, and transfers, RV travel offers greater flexibility. While there are expenses associated with RV travel too, such as fuel and occasional tolls, you can control your budget more closely. Some meals can be cooked “at home” in the RV, while others can be enjoyed at local restaurants. A rough itinerary is recommended, though. Once, we ended up on an unnecessary route in Italy with expensive tolls and tunnel fees. With your “hotel” already with you, you can adjust your route and stop earlier or later, depending on how you’re feeling – a flexible and often more affordable way to travel.
The Feeling of Freedom
RV travel offers a unique feeling of freedom. Driving across countries gives you a much different sense of the journey and your destination than flying over them.
Minimal Planning Required
One major advantage is the reduced need for planning. With your accommodation on board, you can decide when to stop, rest, and eat on your own terms. All you need is a rough plan and some basic research. You can even adjust your route based on the weather forecast. Ferries can help break up long drives – booking a ferry with an overnight cabin can allow you to rest while making progress. Just remember to book in advance and keep your registration papers handy for accurate vehicle measurements during booking.
Ferry Tips and Discounts
Some RV clubs offer discounts on certain ferry routes, so it’s worth comparing costs. Arrive at least two hours before departure. Make sure to have your passport/ID, vehicle registration papers, and remember to shut off the gas and leave the gas compartment unlocked while on board.
Tolls and Road Choices
Many European roads are toll-based – more so in some countries than others. Planning your route on a site like [ViaMichelin](https://www.viamichelin.com) can show toll sections and offer toll-free alternatives. For a smoother experience, consider a toll transponder, which automatically deducts tolls and lets you skip queues at toll booths. Just check that your transponder works in the countries you’ll be visiting.
Driver’s License Rules
With a Swedish Class B license, you can drive a motorhome up to 3,500 kg. If it’s heavier, you’ll need a C or C1 license, unless you obtained your license before July 1, 1996. Note that this exemption doesn’t apply in Switzerland, which is not part of the EEA agreement.
Gas Setup
Refilling Swedish gas cylinders can be tricky in Europe, so it’s a good idea to bring two or buy a set of adapters compatible with the most common European cylinders.
Traveling with a Dog
Planning to bring your dog along? It’s usually allowed but requires some preparation. Your dog will need an EU passport and microchip, plus a rabies vaccination well in advance. Some countries, like Denmark and Norway, ban specific breeds, while others require a muzzle in public. Norway also requires additional tapeworm treatment. On your return to Sweden, you’ll need to declare your dog at customs.
Health Insurance
Make sure to bring a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) from Försäkringskassan, which gives you access to healthcare in EU countries as well as in the UK, Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland.
Country-Specific Rules
–France: Vehicles over 3,500 kg must display “Angles Morts” (blind spot) warning stickers for pedestrians and cyclists. These can be purchased in advance as removable decals.
– Spain and Italy: If carrying items like bikes on a rear rack, you’ll need a red-and-white reflective sign, available at border gas stations or well-stocked accessory stores. Failing to display it can result in fines.
Safety & Required Equipment
Each European country has its own requirements for what you must have in the vehicle. These usually include a fire extinguisher, reflective vest, first aid kit, and warning triangle.
–Reflective Vests:
Must be easily accessible and worn if you need to step out of your vehicle on a busy road.
–Fire Extinguisher: Should be suitable for vehicle fires and kept handy.
– First Aid Kit: For use in case of an accident or medical emergency.
– Mobile Phone: Be aware of restrictions on mobile use while driving. Handheld use is prohibited in most European countries, with heavy fines for violations. In Spain, even earphones are banned while driving; use a fixed in-car speaker system for calls.
Enjoy the journey, and happy travels!
Text by: Måns Löfgren, SkyBlueMedia Sweden AB