Five mistakes of motorhome owners: from odor to overload fines

Pouring starchy cooking water from pasta, rice, or potatoes down the sink of a motorhome leads to biofilm buildup in the gray water tank. Starch settles on plastic walls, creating a sticky layer that promotes bacterial growth. Due to shallow traps in compact plumbing, odors quickly enter the living space. It is recommended to collect starchy water and fats in a separate container and dispose of them at designated camping drains.

According to BOVAG and KCI, as of December 1, 2025, the Netherlands had a record 634,660 caravans and motorhomes, with 425,000 caravans and 210,000 motorhomes. Most of these vehicles are older, prompting owners to undertake DIY renovations and upgrades. However, installing heavy materials like solid countertops or extra batteries reduces payload capacity and can lead to exceeding the legal weight limit. This is especially critical for campervans under 3,500 kg, which can be driven with a standard B license. Overloading risks fines, being stopped until weight is reduced, and compromises caravan stability, increasing the risk of dangerous swaying.

Buyers often focus on aesthetics and overlook technical limits. Key issues: insufficient payload with a standard B license (up to 3,500 kg), hidden costs for insurance (up to €2,000/year), taxes and storage, and non-binding delivery dates. Experts recommend renting the intended model for a week before purchase to test real-world suitability.

The road safety agency warns that driving a motorhome requires significantly more skill and caution than driving a car. Common mistakes involve misjudging dimensions (length up to 8 m, height around 3 m), overloading, and braking. Overloading increases stopping distance, reduces stability, and accelerates tire wear. Drivers are advised not to rely solely on navigation, to account for crosswinds and blind spots, and to inspect the vehicle before departure.

The increasing number of novice motorhome users in the Netherlands raises the risk of technical and logistical errors. Key issues include incorrect weight distribution, neglecting to monitor fluids and electricity, violating local parking rules, forgetting leveling blocks, and unrealistic distance planning. These mistakes can result in damage, fines, and equipment failure.