Are you planning to tour Europe in your campervan or motorhome this summer? If you’re thinking of taking the Eurotunnel, you should know that there are certain rules you’ll have to follow throughout your journey.
In this post we’ll outline the steps you’ll need to take to ensure your Eurotunnel trip in your campervan or motorhome goes as smoothly as possible.
At Anthony Jones, we can help you get reliable overseas cover for your campervan or motorhome. For more information, call us on 0208 290 9099, or email Commercial.Motor@AnthonyJones.com.
Height and Weight Restrictions for Campervans and Motorhomes on the Eurotunnel
The Eurotunnel – or LeShuttle – can accommodate most campervans and motorhomes. A standard Eurotunnel carriage has a height limit of 1.85 metres and a strict weight limit of 3.5 tonnes.
If your campervan or motorhome is 1.85 metres or higher, they’ll put you in one of their single deck carriages. These have higher ceilings and wider doors, plus there are no ramps to work with, which should make things easier if your vehicle has a low ground clearance.
Please note that campervans and motorhomes that are 1.85 metres or taller are not eligible for Flexibus priority boarding tickets.
If your vehicle is any heavier than 3.5 tonnes, you may be able to use Eurotunnel’s freight service, but it may be easier to take the ferry instead.
Other Restrictions for Campervans and Motorhomes on the Eurotunnel
- LPG vehicles are not allowed to travel on Eurotunnel, even if you just use it as a secondary fuel source. Other hybrid or dual powered vehicles are allowed, though.
- If your campervan or motorhome uses LPG for cooking, refrigeration, or heating, you must switch off the tank for the duration of the crossing. There’s also a 47kg weight limit for onboard LPG tanks, and any tank you take onboard must be less than 80% full. You may have to demonstrate that your tank is switched off and not full to capacity before you board.
- There are restrictions on transporting gas cannisters and other containers. Check the full rules and restrictions.
- You may also be asked to disconnect your leisure battery throughout the journey.
Do I Have to Stay in My Campervan During the Eurotunnel Trip?
Yes, you will have to stay in your vehicle throughout the trip. Because the carriages are enclosed, you should keep your windows slightly open for the duration of the journey.
Please note that you will not be allowed to use your onboard toilet throughout the journey. There may be passenger toilets on LeShuttle. But just in case, be sure to use the toilets at the terminal before departure.
Taking a Campervan or Motorhome to Europe – Other Useful Guides
If you’re planning a European trip in your campervan or motorhome, we have a few guides that you might find useful:
- How to travel Europe in a Motorhome or Campervan. This guide explains all the documents you’ll need, plus some tips on how you should prepare your vehicle for your European road trip.
- How much does it cost to travel Europe in a motorhome or campervan? Information on inflation, the cost of living, and other factors that might affect your budget.
- What food can I take to France and Europe in my motorhome? A guide to the restrictions on food you can take with you, and the food you can bring back from your trip.
- A guide to Aires in France. An introduction to French Aires, which are dedicated camping areas that should make your trip to France much easier!
Get The Insurance You Need For Your European Road Trip
At Anthony Jones, we can help you ensure you’re fully covered for breakdowns and other setbacks when vanning on the continent. For more information, call us on 0208 290 9099, or email Commercial.Motor@AnthonyJones.com.
