Doubts before a motorhome trip

You're planning a motorhome trip and a thousand doubts hit you: how does everything work?, where to sleep?, what route to follow? Don't worry: you won't read the usual tired advice here. We're going to focus on what really changes the experience: a great route, understanding regulations without hassle, using the best apps, and traveling light so you enjoy it, not suffer through it.

At OneVan we've spent years helping travelers like you: real routes (tested by us), the best motorhomes to rent, and close support. Let's cut to the chase.

The route is 80% of the trip

The difference between an ordinary trip and an unforgettable one lies in knowing where to go and in what order. That's why we've prepared free routes with maps and videos so you can see if the place is right for you before you go. You'll find them on our website: saved points on Google Maps + a preview of the terrain so you don't waste time.

Veteran tip: leave room to change plans based on the weather; traveling in a motorhome is freedom.

The weather decides your destination more than you think

Plan with one eye on the map… and the other on the forecast. On our last long road trip, we chose the only corner of Spain with sunshine in February and changing our destination was the winning move. Don't get attached to one place: if the weather turns, move on and save the trip. That's the advantage of carrying your home with you.

Travel light

Every day we see newcomers to this world who load up their first trip with 'just in case' items they never actually use.

Result: chaotic trunk, extra weight, higher fuel consumption and a worse experience. Simple rule: if you don't use it every 48 hours, leave it at home. The fewer items you carry, the more organized and stress-free your trip will be.

Check the rules before you sleep

In Spain, the DGT clarifies that 'parking is not camping'. You can park a motorhome just like a car as long as you respect general traffic rules and don't camp (meaning you don't deploy elements outside the vehicle's perimeter: awning, tables, chairs, windows that stick out, stabilizer legs, etc.). If it's parked properly, engine off and only in contact with the ground through the wheels (wheel chocks are fine), you can spend the night inside.

Check out our latest post about motorhome regulations to keep in mind according to the DGT

The best app for motorhome travel

There are a thousand apps, but the one that really gets us through day to day is Park4Night:

Free with an optional Plus subscription (approximately 1.99€ monthly or 9.99€ annually) for advanced filters and offline use.

Use it to find areas to empty/fill water tanks and, if you feel like it, to locate parking spots recommended by the app's community, which are usually seasoned travelers with plenty of experience.

How do we use it?

We filter free areas near our route and take advantage when it 'falls on our way'. Simple, quick and no last-minute improvising.

Top up everything before you leave

Want the step-by-step "how-to"? Our channel has short videos with detailed explanations (electrical, waste, gas, etc.).

What you should have before hitting the road

• Base route + alternatives based on weather.

• Parking/areas marked for the first 2 days: have a clear sense of direction.

• Park4Night installed and tested before you go.

• Minimalist luggage (48-hour rule).

• Clear regulations: no items outside = parking, not camping.

• Quick vehicle check: fluid levels (incl. AdBlue), gas, hose, nozzles, electrical cable and adapters.

How we help you at One Van?

• Download our free routes (maps + video).

• Stop by OneVan (Alicante) and we'll design a personalized route for your destination.

• Close support and fully personalized: tell us your questions before and during your trip so you can focus on enjoying yourself.

Frequently asked questions before your first motorhome trip

Can I sleep in the motorhome outside a campsite? Yes, as long as you're properly parked and not camping (nothing outside the vehicle's perimeter). Check height/time signs and general local regulations just like any other vehicle.

Can I be fined for "overnight parking"? Fines appear when you camp where it's not allowed or break a posted restriction (height, time, etc.). Overnight parking in a properly parked vehicle is legal according to DGT.

What app do you recommend for getting started? Park4Night is more than enough (free; Plus from ~1.99€/month or 9.99€/year).

What about Europe? Each country has its nuances. For example, Greece tightened overnight parking outside campsites in 2025. Check before crossing borders to avoid surprises.