Diesel motorhome in 2026: is it worth buying amid new restrictions

Thierry Chalupt, 53, has launched a mobile motorhome repair workshop in Dordogne after losing 70% of his revenue when Horizon Dordogne closed, with its owner owing him €100,000. He relies on his seven years of experience in the industry.

In La Laigne, Charente-Maritime, three years after the June 16, 2023 earthquake, most victims have returned home, but four families remain in mobile homes. Corinne Gousseau, a retiree, lives in a caravan at the foot of her house as repairs have not started due to a dispute with the insurer over cost estimates. Mayor Philippe Pelletier says the village still lacks shops and is seeking solutions to revive commerce.

Onlycamp, a network of nature campsites, is offering free stays from July 3 to 5 for campers whose home is within 100 km of the campsite. The offer applies to tents, campervans, caravans, and motorhomes. Guests must present proof of residence and can use promo code FREEVACANCES when booking.

In Boulogne-sur-Mer, a camper van struck a three-year-old boy on a balance bike while he was crossing a pedestrian crossing. The accident occurred on the morning of December 11 on Boulevard de l'Europe in the Capécure industrial zone. The child was taken to the local hospital, and police are investigating.

French ultra-trailer Alban Berson had his motorhome burgled for the second time in two months. The incident occurred overnight on June 16–17 in Briançon. Thieves stole sports equipment worth several thousand euros. The athlete filed a police report.

Over 2.8 million motorhomes in Europe, owners spend an average of 72 nights per year on the road. In France, about 30% of 10,000 motorhome parking areas have dedicated dog zones. Recommended destinations include Brittany (Camaret-sur-Mer, Pen Hat beach), Vendée (Saint-Jean-de-Monts, Brétignolles-sur-Mer), Landes (Biscarrosse, Mimizan), and the Mediterranean (Gruissan, Grau-du-Roi, Port-la-Nouvelle). The CAMPING-CAR PARK network offers about 500 sites with 24/7 access and a booking package for €29 per year.