Understanding the height of your motorhome or campervan can mean the difference between a smooth, enjoyable journey and a costly mishap!
In this blog post, we’ll highlight the importance of knowing your vehicle’s height, how to measure it accurately, and the various scenarios where this knowledge is vital.
We’ll also touch on the implications for your campervan insurance, since we’ve been offering specialist campervan insurance since 1998!
Why Knowing Your Motorhome or Campervan’s Height is Important
Knowing the exact height of your motorhome or campervan is essential for navigating under low bridges, entering car parks, avoiding overhanging branches or other obstacles, and accessing things like ferries and the Eurotunnel.
Safety Considerations
One of the primary reasons for knowing your campervan or motorhome’s height is safety.
Low bridges, tunnels, and overpasses pose significant hazards for taller vehicles. Failing to account for your vehicle’s height can result in collisions which cause extensive damage to both your motorhome and the structure in question. Such accidents not only endanger you and other drivers, but can also lead to substantial repair costs and potential legal issues.
Legal Requirements
There are often specific regulations regarding the maximum height of vehicles on certain roads. These regulations are designed to ensure the safety of all road users, and so ignoring height restrictions can result in fines and other penalties.
Being aware of your vehicle’s height helps you comply with these regulations and avoid unnecessary legal complications.
Travel Planning
Knowing the height of your motorhome or campervan is essential for effective travel planning. Many scenic routes and campgrounds have height restrictions, and being aware of these limitations allows you to plan your journey accordingly. This knowledge ensures that you can choose appropriate routes and accommodations that accommodate your vehicle’s dimensions.
How to Measure Your Campervan or Motorhome’s Height
Here’s a quick guide which will walk you through accurately measuring the height of your camper, so you can plan routes, avoid obstacles, and enjoy some peace of mind.
Tools You’ll Need
To measure the height of your motorhome or campervan accurately, you’ll need a few basic tools:
- A tape measure or a laser distance measurer,
- A level surface to park your vehicle,
- A ladder or step stool,
- An assistant to help with the measurement.
Step-by-Step Measurement Guide
- Park on a Level Surface: Ensure your camper is parked on a flat, level surface to get an accurate measurement. It’s also important to make sure that your vehicle’s tyres are properly inflated, as every millimetre counts when aiming for the most accurate measurement possible.
- Measure from the Ground to the Highest Point: Use the tape measure or laser distance measurer to measure from the ground to the highest point of your vehicle. This includes any accessories mounted on the roof, such as air conditioning units, satellite dishes, or solar panels.
- Record the Measurement: Write down the measurement and ensure it is easily accessible. It’s a good idea to keep this information in the vehicle for quick reference. This could mean getting it printed onto a sticker, or stashed away in the glovebox.
- Include Additional Height: If you plan to add any rooftop accessories in the future, include their height in your calculations to avoid any surprises.
Scenarios Where Height Awareness is Crucial
There’s a lot of different scenarios where knowing the height of your camper is of the utmost importance. We’ve listed out a few of the most common examples, to help you understand why it’s worth getting the tape measure and step ladder out to record your camper’s height!
Navigating Under Low Bridges and Tunnels
Low bridges and tunnels are common hazards for taller vehicles. Many older bridges, in particular, have lower clearances than modern structures. Always pay attention to height restriction signs and use alternative routes if necessary to avoid collisions.
Entering Car Parks
Many car parks, especially those in urban areas, have height restrictions. Be mindful of these restrictions when entering car parks to avoid damaging your vehicle or the parking structure. Some car parks may have designated areas for taller vehicles, so look for these options.
Driving Through Forested Areas
Overhanging branches and tree limbs can pose a threat to taller motorhomes and campervans. When driving through forested areas, be cautious of low-hanging branches that could scrape or damage your vehicle. Consider using a spotter if you are unsure about the clearance.
Using Ferries and Tunnels
When using ferries and tunnels, knowing your vehicle’s height is essential for boarding and navigating safely. Some ferries and tunnels have height restrictions or additional charges for taller vehicles. Ensure you provide accurate height information when booking these services.
Implications for Campervan Insurance
There are a few different ways in which understanding the full height of your camper or motorhome, and acting accordingly, can impact your vehicle insurance.
Accurate Information for Insurance Coverage
Providing accurate information about your motorhome or campervan’s height is crucial when obtaining insurance coverage. Insurance providers need this information to assess the risk and determine the appropriate coverage and premium. Failing to disclose the correct height can lead to issues with claims and potentially void your policy.
Coverage for Accidents Involving Height
Understanding your vehicle’s height can help prevent accidents involving low clearances. However, if an accident does occur, having comprehensive campervan insurance is essential. This coverage can help with repair costs and liability claims resulting from height-related incidents.
Specialty Coverage Options
If your vehicle’s height has been increased because of modifications like a roof-top tent or satellite dish, then you’ll need to ensure that your insurance policy includes modification insurance, to take these alterations and additions into account and make sure that your vehicle, and its modifications, are properly insured.
Tips for Managing Your Motorhome or Campervan’s Height
Now that you know how to accurately measure the height of your campervan or motorhome, and you know why it’s such important information, here are a few ways you can use it.
Keep Height Information Visible
Place a sticker or note with your motorhome or campervan’s height on the dashboard or another visible location. This reminder can help you quickly reference the height when approaching low clearances.
Plan Your Routes
Use GPS systems and apps designed for motorhomes and campervans. These tools often include information about height restrictions and can help you plan routes that avoid low bridges and tunnels.
Communicate with Campgrounds and Parks
When booking stays at campgrounds or parks, communicate your vehicle’s height to ensure they can accommodate you. Some locations have height-restricted areas, and it’s best to verify this information in advance.
Regular Maintenance
Regularly inspect and maintain rooftop accessories and modifications to ensure they are securely attached and in good condition. Loose or damaged components can increase your vehicle’s height and pose additional risks.
In Conclusion
Knowing the height of your motorhome or campervan is essential for safe and enjoyable travel. It helps you navigate low clearances, comply with legal requirements, and plan your routes effectively. Accurate height information is also crucial for obtaining the right campervan insurance coverage, ensuring that your investment is well-protected.
By following the tips and guidelines provided in this blog post, you can confidently hit the road with the knowledge that your motorhome or campervan is prepared for any adventure. For more information on campervan insurance and to explore tailored coverage options, visit Just Kampers Insurance.
So, give us a call on 01256 674522 and let one of our specialist team discuss your requirements. Or Get an online quote today or arrange a call back and let us call you at a convenient time.
