Motorhomes Under 3,500kg: Everything You Need to Know
When you’re in the market for a motorhome, one of the key considerations is whether to choose a motorhome under or over 3,500kg.
The type of driving licence you have will influence your decision. However, there are other factors to consider as well.
In this motorhomes under 3,500kg guide, we’ll break down;
- Why the 3,500kg limit is important,
- The pros and cons of choosing motorhomes under 3,500kg
- When it might be worth considering a larger vehicle.
Auto-Trail Motorhomes Under 3,500kg
Expedition Range
The Auto-Trail Expedition offers a dynamic, compact 2 berth van conversion under 3,500kg, perfect for adventurers seeking comfort, practicality, and ease of driving.
V-Line SE Range
The Auto-Trail V-Line SE offers a sleek, versatile 2 berth campervan experience under 3,500kg, combining comfort and practicality for adventurous journeys.
V-Line Sport Range
The Auto-Trail V-Line Sport offers a sleek, high-performance 2 berth campervan under 3,500kg, designed for adventurous drivers seeking comfort and versatility.
Adventure Range
The Auto-Trail Adventure is a compact, versatile Fiat Ducato campervan under 3,500kg, designed for thrill-seekers who want to explore the open road with comfort and style.
Expedition Coachbuilt Range
The Auto-Trail Expedition offers adventure-ready motorhomes with compact designs under 3,500kg. Perfect for newcomers seeking comfort, efficiency, and ease of driving.
F-Line Range
The Auto-Trail F-Line delivers spacious comfort under 3,500kg, offering a versatile, compact motorhome designed for adventurous journeys.
Excel Range
The Auto-Trail Excel combines sleek design with a spacious layout under 3,500kg, offering comfort and versatility for adventurers who want a smooth driving.
Imala Range
The Auto-Trail Imala offers a spacious and versatile motorhome under 3,500kg, perfect for adventurers seeking comfort and practicality.
Why is the 3,500kg Limit Important?
The 3,500kg weight limit is significant because it relates to the weight of the vehicle your UK driving licence allows you to drive.
If you passed your driving test after 1st January 1997, you can only drive vehicles up to 3,500kg on a standard Category B licence. To drive anything heavier, you’ll need to upgrade to a Category C1 licence. This involves additional testing and a medical examination.
If you’re buying your first motorhome, staying under the 3,500kg limit means avoiding the hassle and expense of upgrading your licence.
But it’s not just about legal requirements. There are several other things to consider when comparing motorhomes under 3.5 tonnes and larger models.
Pros of Choosing a Motorhome Under 3,500kg
Motorhomes under 3,500kg are popular for good reasons. Here are some key benefits:
- Licence Simplicity: With a standard Category B licence, you can drive any motorhome or campervan that weighs less than 3,500kg. There’s no need to worry about taking extra tests or meeting medical requirements.
- Better Fuel Efficiency: Generally, motorhomes under 3,500kg are more fuel-efficient. They tend to have smaller engines and lighter builds, which means lower running costs and potentially lower insurance premiums.
- Easier to Manoeuvre: Lighter motorhomes are typically easier to drive and park, especially for newcomers. Finding a suitable parking space is often easier, while modern features such as reversing cameras can make manoeuvring even simpler.
- More Campsite Flexibility: Some campsites have weight restrictions for larger vehicles. With a motorhome under 3,500kg, you will have more options when it comes to where you can stay. This is especially true in more remote or rural locations and when enjoying wild camping adventures.
Cons of Choosing a Motorhome Under 3,500kg
While there are plenty of advantages, motorhomes under 3.5 tonnes are not for everyone. Here are a few potential downsides:
- Limited Payload: One of the main trade-offs for staying under the 3,500kg limit is the restricted payload, or Maximum Authorised Mass. This is the amount of weight you can add to the vehicle in the form of passengers, luggage, and equipment. For larger families or those who like to travel with a lot of gear, this could be a dealbreaker.
- Smaller Living Space: Motorhomes under 3,500kg usually have more compact living spaces. If you are planning extended trips or want a lot of room to stretch out, you might find these models too cramped.
- Fewer Luxury Features: Larger motorhomes over 3,500kg often come with additional luxury features. For example, larger kitchens, bathrooms, and more advanced entertainment systems. While many 3500kg motorhomes are still comfortable, they might not have all the high-end features you are after.
All Auto-Trail Campervans are under 3,500kg
It’s worth noting that all Auto-Trail campervans fall under the 3,500kg limit. So, if you are thinking of opting for a campervan instead of a motorhome, you won’t need to worry about licence restrictions.
This makes them an excellent choice for drivers specifically looking for motorhomes under 3,500kg without the need for additional licence categories.
When You Might Consider a Motorhome Over 3,500kg
For some, there are times when you might want to consider a larger motorhome. Here are some situations where upgrading to a motorhome over 3,500kg might make sense:
- You Need More Space: If you’re planning long trips or living in your motorhome full time, the extra space and amenities of a larger vehicle can make a big difference. Larger motorhomes often come with full-sized kitchens, bigger beds, and more storage, including layouts with fixed beds.
- You’re Travelling with a Large Group: For families or groups, a motorhome under 3,500kg might not be big enough. A larger motorhome can provide more sleeping areas, seating, and room for everyone, including models with a drop-down bed.
- You Want More Features: High-end features like king-sized beds, larger water tanks, integrated infotainment systems, and premium appliances such as a fridge freezer are often only available in larger motorhomes.
