Quick guide to travel by camper

If you are considering booking a camper for Easter, you may be about to become passionate and do not contemplate another way to travel for the rest of your life. However, if it is your first time, it is important that you have a few things clear to ensure that your experience is pleasant.

For this reason, we have compiled the most frequent doubts when traveling by camper. By keeping them in mind, your trip will be much more comfortable.

How is electricity managed?

The campers have two batteries, one for the house and one for the motor. The power outlets are 12 volts – enough to charge the phone with USB outlets – but if a conventional plug is required, it is necessary to connect it to the network or start the engine.

Do I have to take out additional insurance?

All vehicles need insurance to circulate. If you are renting a camper, you may be offered additional coverage. The most interesting are those that cover damage to the interior and the equipment of the camper.

Where can I spend the night in a camper?

Camping outside the areas enabled for it, such as campsites, can lead to a serious penalty – on the beach, for example, it amounts to 1,500 euros. However, to fit the legal definition of camping the van has to be immobilized, have the awning extended or tables outside. Without these items, you can spend the night in parking lots. More and more rural houses are aware of the camper public and set up spaces on their farms for camping, with power outlets and access to bathrooms. You have to contact them, since it is a recommended option.

What do I have to do with the waste?

The authorities have little tolerance for waste, both solid and liquid, and can only be disposed of in designated areas. The fine for deliberately dumping them can amount to up to 3,000 euros.

What other sanctions should I be aware of?

Although it is always necessary to proceed with common sense, it should be known that removing chairs or awnings in non-permitted areas can lead to a light penalty (up to 750 euros), while damaging urban furniture or obstructing traffic can reach 3,000.

Can I travel with my pet in a camper?

It will depend if your rental company allows it, but most of them do contemplate it, on the condition that they clean the hair when returning it. To travel with a dog, you will have to carry it on a leash that holds it inside or in a carrier.

What should I know to travel abroad?

The necessary document to travel outside of Spain is the European Health Card, which is obtained through Social Security. In addition, you will need to have the Covid Passport. Some countries like Italy require that the last vaccination be less than six months ago, so it is advisable to find out before leaving. Also keep the contact number from abroad of your insurance.

What can I do to reduce consumption?

Long trips mean that the cost of gasoline is a factor to consider. From Yescapa they affirm that maintaining a calm rhythm and a constant speed – modern campers have cruise control systems, use it – are essential to keep consumption low. Check the correct tire pressure before leaving as well.

Do I need a special card to travel?

No. Most campers and motorhomes weigh less than 3,500 kilos, so they can be driven with the B license, for tourism. If they exceed this category, you will need the C1.

What do I take to eat in the camper?

In camper, cleanliness and practicality are maxims to adhere to. Refrigerators are powerful and it is best to eat things that require little preparation or are eaten cold: cold meats, cheeses, fruits, salads and bread. It is better to reserve gas for coffee in the morning — electric coffee makers have peaks that require a power outlet — and avoid cooking things that splash.