Planning a European Motorhome Trip? Here’s What to Pack
Heading off on a motorhome trip through Europe is one of the most rewarding ways to travel – freedom, flexibility, and stunning scenery all in one. But before you hit the road, it’s worth making sure you’ve packed everything you’ll need. Here’s a full packing list to help UK travellers prepare for European adventures, from motorhome must-haves to handy extras.
Motorhome Essentials (Don’t Leave Without These)
- Vehicle documents – V5C logbook, MOT, insurance (including European cover), and driving licence.
- International Driving Permit – required in some EU countries.
- Travel insurance documents – with health cover.
- EHIC/GHIC card – still valid in most EU countries.
- Reflective jackets – one per passenger, easily accessible.
- Warning triangle
- Headlamp beam deflectors
- First aid kit – some countries require it by law.
- Fire extinguisher
- Spare bulbs and fuses
- Hi-vis vests
- Breathalysers – required in France.
- GB sticker – if your number plate doesn’t show the UK identifier.
Kitchen & Food Items
- Gas bottle(s) suitable for European connections (check compatibility)
- EU to UK gas adapter
- Kettle (12v or gas hob-compatible)
- Pots, pans, utensils
- Plates, mugs, cutlery
- Rubbish bags and cleaning cloths
- Food basics – salt, oil, tea, coffee, etc.
- Washing-up liquid and bowl
- Reusable water bottles
- Non-slip matting to stop items moving in cupboards
Bedding & Personal Items
- Duvet/sleeping bags and pillows
- Towels and washcloths
- Toiletries – toothbrush, toothpaste, shower gel, etc.
- Laundry bag and pegs
- Flip flops for campsite showers
- Clothes for varying weather
- Swimwear
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Travel hairdryer
Tech & Travel Gear
- Sat nav or map (with EU mapping)
- Travel apps downloaded offline
- Phone and tablet chargers (12v adapter useful)
- EU travel plug adapters
- Headphones
- Torch or headlamp
- Camping chairs and table
- Level ramps
- Electric hookup cable with EU adapter
- Hose for fresh water
- Toilet chemicals and biodegradable toilet paper
- Levelling chocks
Extras That Make a Difference
- Folding bikes or e-scooter
- BBQ or portable grill
- Clothesline or drying rack
- Guidebooks or phrasebooks
- Notebook and pen
- Travel games or books
- Refillable shopping bags
- Local currency (euros)
Before You Go…
Make sure your motorhome is in good condition before heading across the Channel. At Southdowns Motorhomes, we can help with vehicle servicing, accessories and advice before your trip. Speak to our team for help preparing your motorhome for Europe.
European Motorhome Packing List FAQ’s
You’ll need your UK driving licence, V5C logbook, valid insurance with European cover, MOT certificate, and an International Driving Permit for certain countries. It’s also wise to carry your EHIC or GHIC health card and travel insurance documents.
If your number plate does not include the UK identifier with a Union Jack flag, then yes — you’ll need a UK sticker when travelling in EU countries.
Not always. European countries use different fittings, so it’s worth checking in advance. You may need a gas bottle adapter to connect your system to local bottles.
Most European countries require reflective jackets (one per person), a warning triangle, beam deflectors, and a first aid kit. In France, breathalysers are also required.
Yes, but make sure it includes full European mapping and is updated. Some travellers also use mobile apps like Park4Night for finding overnight spots.
Written by the Southdowns Motorhomes team. With decades of experience supplying premium motorhomes to UK and European customers, our team understands what makes a vehicle suitable for serious touring.
