Travelling by Motorhome with Children: Our Complete Family Road Trip Guide
The essentials for family motorhome travel
- Choose an overcab motorhome or a low-profile model with bunk beds to keep a usable living area once children are asleep
- Prioritise secure overnight stops such as private farm stays or enclosed hosted locations
- Simplify daily life with individual storage boxes, bed guards for upper bunks and battery-powered night lights
Travelling by motorhome as a family offers a level of freedom few other types of travel can match. For parents, it removes the stress of hotel timetables and constant unpacking. For children, it turns the journey itself into an adventure: more flexible, more interactive and far more fun!
Vehicle choice, family-friendly routes and essential equipment: here’s everything you need to prepare a successful motorhome holiday in France with children.
Why travel by motorhome with children?
Life on the road naturally suits children’s curiosity and sense of exploration. Unlike long car journeys where space is limited, a motorhome becomes a real home on wheels.
Children keep familiar routines: their toys, beds and eating habits travel with them, which greatly reduces the stress often linked to changing environments.
Staying in nature or family-oriented campsites also reconnects children with the outdoors. They quickly learn how water and electricity are managed onboard and often enjoy helping with simple daily tasks.
Above all, flexibility is the greatest advantage. If everyone loves a destination, you can stay longer. If the weather turns, you simply move on.
Which motorhome should you choose for a family trip?
Your vehicle choice directly impacts comfort, especially on rainy days when everyone spends more time indoors.
Campervans and converted vans: ideal for small families
Compact and easy to drive, campervans are perfect for parents who want access to remote areas or stress-free city driving. They work best for families with one or two children who are already fairly independent.
Space is more limited, however. Pop-top roofs often provide additional sleeping areas, but switching between driving and sleeping layouts requires good organisation.
Typical options include:
Low-profile motorhomes: the comfort balance
More aerodynamic than overcab models, low-profile motorhomes offer lower fuel consumption while maintaining generous interior space.
Family layouts with rear bunk beds or drop-down beds are particularly practical. Parents can still enjoy the lounge area once children are asleep, a major advantage during evenings on the road.
Popular configurations include:
Overcab motorhomes: perfect for larger families
Recognisable by the sleeping area above the cab, the overcab motorhome is the classic family vehicle.
The fixed overhead bed frees up floor space, often creating a large dining area suitable for 4 to 6 people. It’s the ideal choice for families with three or more children or for longer trips requiring extra storage.
Best family-friendly routes in France
France offers many destinations where driving distances remain manageable, which is essential when travelling with younger passengers.
Brittany and the Pink Granite Coast
A natural playground of sandy beaches, unusual rock formations and Arthurian legends. Campsites are plentiful and often located by the sea with secure access.
Ardèche and its rivers
Perfect for active families. Gentle river descents, swimming spots and cave visits such as Chauvet 2 fascinate children. Roads can be winding, but the scenery makes the journey worthwhile.
The Loire Valley Castles
A more cultural itinerary that still captivates younger travellers. From Leonardo da Vinci’s inventions at Clos Lucé to medieval shows, history becomes immersive and fun. The flat “Loire à Vélo” cycle routes are ideal for safe family rides.
Essential items for travelling by motorhome with children
Beyond clothing, certain items significantly improve daily comfort:
Child seats compatible with motorhome seating (check ISOFIX availability). Bed guards are strongly recommended for elevated sleeping areas.
Child-sized folding chairs, an outdoor ground mat for a clean play area, and scooters or bicycles for moving safely around campsites.
Individual storage boxes help prevent clutter in a compact space. A battery-powered night light reassures younger children in an unfamiliar environment.
A head torch for night trips to campsite facilities, a compact clothes airer and a well-stocked first-aid kit for minor outdoor injuries.
Where to stay safely when travelling as a family?
If you’re not planning wild camping (which is regulated in France), consider these safe options:
- Family-labelled campsites offering secure facilities, child-friendly amenities and play areas away from vehicle traffic
- Farm stays providing enclosed spaces and educational experiences with local producers
- Private motorhome service areas with barrier access, lighting and electric hook-ups
- Park4Night app filters: choose locations rated above 4 stars mentioning calm surroundings and family suitability
- HomeCamper network, allowing overnight stays in private gardens, often fenced and ideal for families
Set off across France with complete peace of mind with Evasia.
Hire your motorhome today and enjoy the freedom of a family road trip, for a few days, a few weeks or longer.
FAQ: Family motorhome travel
How can I keep young children entertained on long drives?
Choose games that don’t require screens: guessing games, observation challenges or number-plate spotting. Audiobooks are excellent for keeping attention without causing motion sickness. A “surprise box” with small new toys works wonders on longer driving days.
What safety rules should I follow when travelling with children?
Everyone must remain seated and belted while the vehicle is moving. Sleeping or walking inside the motorhome during travel is not allowed. At night, always lock the habitation door and keep keys accessible to adults but out of reach of young children.
What should I pack for a family motorhome trip?
Opt for layered clothing to adapt to changing weather. Bring easy-to-remove footwear to keep interiors clean, biodegradable wipes and a sealed laundry bag for dirty clothes.
