What UK Motorhome Drivers Need to Know About Travelling to Europe in 2026
New Travel Rules UK Motorhome Drivers Should Know Before Touring Europe in 2026
Many UK motorhome owners will already be planning routes for spring or summer tours across destinations such as France, Spain, Italy and beyond.
Touring Europe by motorhome remains extremely popular, but several regulatory developments are approaching that will alter how travellers enter and move around the Schengen Area.
Importantly, these changes are procedural rather than restrictive. Understanding what to expect can simply help ensure a smoother journey when reaching border crossings.
The EU Entry/Exit System (EES)
One of the most significant developments is the introduction of the EU Entry/Exit System (EES).
This new system will replace the traditional practice of stamping passports for travellers entering the Schengen Area from outside the EU, including UK citizens.
When crossing the border for the first time under EES, visitors will need to provide biometric information. This typically includes:
Fingerprint scans
A digital facial photograph
Once a traveller’s details are recorded, future entries into the Schengen Area should be processed more quickly. However, the first registration process may increase the amount of time spent at the border.
Busy crossing points such as Dover and the Eurotunnel are expected to experience longer queues initially while the system becomes fully operational.
For motorhome travellers, the key advice is straightforward: allow extra time for border crossings, particularly during peak holiday periods.
You can find official information about the system here: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/eu-entry-exit-system_en
ETIAS Travel Authorisation
Looking slightly further ahead, UK travellers will eventually need to apply for ETIAS approval before visiting most EU countries.
ETIAS is a digital pre-travel authorisation similar in principle to the US ESTA system.
Although currently scheduled for introduction in late 2026, applications are not yet available.
Once the system launches, travellers will need to:
Complete a short online application
Pay a small fee
Receive electronic approval linked to their passport
It is important to note that applications should only be made through the official EU website when the system becomes active.
For updates and official information visit: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias_en
Towing Trailers and Additional Equipment
Many motorhome owners travel with extra equipment such as:
Bicycle carriers
Storage trailers
Small towed units
UK regulations require trailers weighing over 750kg to be registered with the DVLA before they can be taken abroad.
While this rule has been in place for some time, awareness and enforcement across European countries has increased.
Drivers should therefore ensure they:
Confirm the weight classification of any trailer or towed equipment
Carry the correct trailer registration documentation where required
In some cases, larger tow-bar mounted carriers may approach regulatory limits, so it is worth checking specifications carefully before travelling.
Further guidance can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/trailer-registration
Spain’s V-16 Emergency Beacon Requirement
From January 2026, Spain plans to introduce new regulations requiring vehicles to carry a V-16 emergency beacon.
These devices activate in the event of a breakdown and transmit the vehicle’s location to help improve roadside safety.
However, the requirement mainly applies to vehicles registered in Spain.
Motorhomes registered in the UK can continue to use traditional warning triangles or other compliant safety equipment under international agreements.
That said, drivers who frequently tour Spain may still choose to carry a beacon as an additional safety measure.
Driving Licence Rules and Motorhome Weight Limits
There has been ongoing discussion within the UK about increasing the standard Category B licence weight limit for motorhomes.
Some proposals have suggested raising the threshold from 3,500kg to 4,250kg.
At present, however, no legislative change has been confirmed. Drivers must therefore continue to comply with the current licence entitlements and vehicle weight categories.
Motorists aged 70 and over should also ensure their licence renewal details are correct, particularly if they wish to retain C1 entitlement for driving heavier motorhomes.
More information is available through DVLA guidance: https://www.gov.uk/search/all?keywords=driving+licence
Practical Checks Before Touring Europe
Before setting off on a European motorhome trip, it is sensible to review a few key points that can make border crossings and travel easier.
Keep essential documents accessible: Passports, your V5C vehicle logbook, and proof of insurance should all be easy to produce if requested.
Confirm vehicle and towing weights: Even small differences in vehicle weight or trailer classification can affect legal requirements.
Stay updated on EU travel announcements: Implementation dates for EES and ETIAS may evolve as the systems are rolled out.
Check individual country requirements: Rules relating to safety equipment, low-emission zones, toll systems and road regulations can vary between European countries.
Motorhome Travel and Insurance Considerations
Exploring Europe by motorhome continues to offer some of the most rewarding travel experiences available to UK drivers.
The upcoming changes to border systems are primarily designed to modernise travel processes and improve security rather than restrict tourism.
With some basic preparation and slightly more flexibility around border crossing times, most travellers are unlikely to encounter significant disruption.
If you are planning to drive your motorhome overseas, it is also worth confirming a few insurance-related details before departure:
Your policy includes European cover
Your vehicle details are correct
You carry any required documentation while travelling
If you need assistance or have questions about your cover, the Performance Direct team will always be happy to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the EU Entry/Exit System prevent me from travelling to Europe?
No. The system simply changes how travellers are processed at the border. The first time you enter the Schengen Area, biometric information will be recorded, which may slightly increase processing time.
Do I need ETIAS approval for travel in 2026?
Not immediately. ETIAS is expected to launch later in 2026 and is not currently in operation.
Do trailers used with motorhomes need to be registered?
Yes. Any trailer weighing more than 750kg must be registered with the DVLA before it can be used internationally. Drivers should confirm weight classifications prior to travelling.
Do UK motorhomes need Spain’s V-16 emergency beacon?
The rule primarily applies to vehicles registered in Spain. UK vehicles can continue to carry warning triangles or other compliant safety equipment.
