What you need to know about motorhome weights

If you’re new to the world of motorhomes, the subject of weights can feel a little confusing at first! However, it’s up there as one of the most important things to understand before you buy or drive a motorhome. From licence restrictions to safety considerations, knowing what’s what ensures you stay within the law and also that you enjoy your travels without having to worry.

Motorhome weights

A motorhome will have its weight limits stamped on the VIN plate, so you can look there if you are not sure, although the manual is also your best bet.

When looking at the different specifications, you’ll likely see three different weight terms. Here’s what they mean:

1. Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM)

Also called the Maximum Technically Permissible Laden Mass (MTPLM), this is the heaviest your motorhome is legally allowed to weigh when fully loaded. It includes passengers, fuel, water, luggage, food, bikes – pretty much everything! Exceeding this figure is illegal, and would also likely be unsafe when driving.

2. Mass in Running Order (MiRO)

This is the unladen weight of the motorhome straight from the factory, usually including its standard fittings. The driver, a fuel tank of 90%, and sometimes fresh water and gas bottles are sometimes included. However, what’s included can vary between manufacturers, so do always check!

3. Payload

The payload is the difference between the MiRO and the MAM. In other words, it’s how much extra weight you can legally carry. This covers everything from passengers to bedding and camping chairs. If you travel with a family, or plan on taking lots of gear with you, then a healthy payload is vital. A motorhome with too small a payload might leave you constantly worrying about overloading.

Why this all matters…

Understanding what these weights are and why they exist isn’t just an exercise to tick some boxes. Staying within your legal limits means that:

Your safety won’t be compromised

Overloading your motorhome will affect its braking, handling, and also the wear on the tyres - not good.

You’ll be abiding by the law

Overloading is illegal and can lead to fines, or even worse, if you are stopped.

You won’t invalidate your insurance

If you’re involved in an accident while over the weight limit, your insurance may not cover you.

It’s practical information that you need to know

Knowing your payload helps you pack sensibly, and avoid any nasty surprises at the weighbridge.

Now on to driving licences…

Many motorhomes in the UK are designed to weigh no more than 3,500kg (3.5 tonnes). That’s because 3.5 tonnes (MAM) is the legal limit for a standard Category B driving licence (the one most of us hold when we pass our driving test).

At or under 3.5 tonnes 

You can drive the motorhome without needing extra training or licences.

Over 3.5 tonnes and up to 7.5 tonnes 

You’ll need a C1 licence, which many older drivers automatically have on their licence (if they passed before 1997), but younger drivers would need to take an additional test.

Over 7.5 tonnes 

A full HGV (Category C) licence is required - but motorhomes of this size are less common.

For many buyers, the 3.5 tonne limit is a key consideration, because it keeps things simple. However, you’ll also find motorhomes with weight plates of 3,000kg, 3,200kg or 3,850kg, depending on the chassis and specification. Some lightweight campervans even come in at under 3,000kg, fully loaded, which makes them easier to manage.

The 3.5 tonne limit is an important factor, as it means you can usually drive the motorhome without any additional tests - but it also means you need to be mindful of how much you load into it.

When looking to purchase a motorhome, don’t just look at the layout and the fittings; make sure you check the weight figures too. The balance between MiRO, MAM (and the resulting payload) could make a big difference to how enjoyable (and stress-free) your trips are.

So, whether you’re travelling light or packing for a grand tour of Europe, understanding the different motorhome weights is key to keeping your adventures safe, legal and fun.

And, do think carefully about how you’ll use the motorhome before purchasing - a solo traveller packing light will have very different needs to a family of four taking bikes, barbecues and other camping gear with them.