The Road to Reales: Kit and Country-Specific Advice

This time, the Road to Reales takes us through France, Andorra, and Spain — a route full of scenic drives, mountain passes, and moments to remember. But before the wheels start turning, a bit of prep goes a long way.

In this guide, you’ll find essential kit lists, planning advice, and expert tips from The Caravan and Motorhome Club. We’ve also teamed up with Prima Leisure to highlight equipment that’ll keep you safe, comfortable, and in control, whether you’re navigating winding roads, managing power off-grid, or simply settling in for the night.

Driving Regulations: Under 3500kg vs over 3500kg

Licence Requirements

Motorhomes under 3,500kg can be driven with a standard Category B driving licence. For vehicles over 3,500kg, a Category C1 licence is required. If you passed your test before 1 January 1997, this entitlement may already be included.

Speed Limits
In France, vehicles under 3,500kg may travel at 130 km/h on motorways and 80–90 km/h on other roads. For motorhomes over 3,500kg, the limit is 110 km/h on motorways and 80 km/h on other roads. In Spain, limits are 120 km/h (under 3,500kg) or 90 km/h (over 3,500kg) on motorways, and 90 km/h or 80 km/h on other roads, respectively. Always check for regional variations.

Stickers & Tolls
France requires blind spot warning stickers for vehicles over 3.5 tonnes. French tolls classify vehicles by weight and height, often resulting in higher charges for motorhomes over 3.5t. In Spain, tolls are based more on axle count and size. To save time at French toll booths, an Emovis tag is a convenient option.

Low Emission Zones & the Crit’Air System in France

Crit’Air is a colour-coded emissions classification system that affects access to low-emission zones in cities such as Paris, Lyon, Grenoble, Marseille, and Strasbourg. All foreign-registered vehicles, including motorhomes, must display a Crit’Air sticker when entering these zones.

Stickers are ranked from 1 (cleanest) to 6 (most polluting) and must be ordered in advance from the official website: www.certificat-air.gouv.fr. Allow 10 working days for delivery. Even if you’re not planning to enter major cities, a sticker is useful as restrictions can be activated regionally during pollution events.

Equipment Checklist

Navigation & Connectivity

• Google Maps or Waze via the 12-inch infotainment system fitted to the Forb cab
• Avtex Tourer 3 sat nav with motorhome-specific routing
• Emovis toll tag

Electrical & Power Equipment

• 230v European mains hook-up adaptor.
• 2x 25m hook-up cables (some European sites have bollards further than 25m from pitches).
• Polarity checker.
• Full gas bottles.

Legal & Safety Essentials

• Hi-vis vests for all occupants, stored in the cab
• Warning triangle(s) – one for France, two for Spain
• Spare bulb kit
• Headlight beam converters for driving on the right
• UK identifier sticker
• Breathalyser kit (recommended)
• Driving licence, V5C, passports, insurance, GHIC
• Red Pennant travel insurance from The Caravan and Motorhome Club
• First aid kit
• Fire extinguisher

Touring & Utility Gear

• Levelling ramps for uneven pitches.
• Wheel chocks .
•  Collapsible water hose with tap connectors.
• Toilet chemicals.
•  Toolkit, fuses, duct tape, cable ties, WD-40.
• Tow rope.
• Grip mat.

Security Items

• Steering wheel lock or pedal lock

Campsite Comfort

• Folding camping chairs
• Cab thermal screens

Cooking & Cleaning

• Crockery & cutlery.
• Pots, pans, baking trays, and other kitchen essentials.
• Air fryer.
• BBQ.
• Low-wattage appliances: kettle, toaster, or hairdryer.
• Kettle for gas hob.
• Eco-friendly cleaning products.

The Caravan and Motorhome Club’s Country-Specific Pages

The Caravan and Motorhome Club offers detailed guides for each European country. These pages include information on driving laws, tolls, legal requirements, and lists of inspected campsites.

They’re especially helpful for new travellers and those with heavier or larger motorhomes.

Final Tips

• Know your vehicle’s weight and height to avoid toll or road restrictions. Keep a Crit’Air sticker visible if you plan to enter city zones.
• Secure your van at night and when parked in public areas.
• If you’re new to motorhomes or campervans, use checklists for departure and arrival routines.
• Embrace spontaneity—some of the best stops are found along the way.