New DGT Rules: What Turns a Motorhome into 'Illegal Camping'

Google Maps navigation directs large motorhomes to the Mintxeta sports complex in Elgoibar, where the road ends in a dead end. Drivers are forced to perform difficult maneuvers on a narrow road with no exit.

In Spain, a growing number of people with steady jobs are choosing a motorhome as their primary residence due to high rental and property purchase prices. For instance, teacher Antonio purchased a motorhome for 30,000 euros because he could not afford rent in Madrid, where housing prices have risen by over 40% in the last decade. While living in a motorhome solves the housing issue, it comes with limitations regarding space, logistics, and ambiguous legislation regulating overnight stays in vehicles.

Spanish authorities have clarified parking and inspection rules for motorhomes and campervans ahead of the Easter travel rush. Local councils can impose their own restrictions on parking duration or outright bans in certain areas. Vehicle inspections are not required for motorhomes under 4 years old, while campervans under 10 years require annual testing. New road signs have been introduced to mark official wastewater disposal points.

Spain's Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) has updated the technical vehicle inspection (ITV) rules for motorhomes and camper vans. Motorhomes require inspection every two years after four years of use, while van-based campers require annual checks. A new road sign, S-128, has also been introduced to indicate wastewater disposal points.

Spain's General Directorate of Traffic updated its instruction for motorhomes and camper vans on March 11. The new regulations clarify inspection frequency, allow parking under general conditions, and regulate designated areas for such vehicles.

The Vanaconda Customs workshop has unveiled a custom camper van project based on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis. Autonomous systems include up to 600W solar panels, a power station, and water tanks for off-grid living. The interior layout features a lounge, a kitchen with an oven, and a separate shower room, with the rear section converting from a sofa to a full-size bed.