How much payload do I need and what are the rules?
A common concern when buying a motorhome, especially for an extended trip, is the payload. We discuss the average payloads and what this means for staying within the limits.
Typical Payloads
Profile Motorhomes
Lighter than full-integrated models, offering a higher payload. A 3,500 kg profile motorhome can have a payload of approximately 500 kg.
Full-Integrated Motorhomes
Often more luxurious and spacious, they generally have a lower payload due to their higher empty weight. A 3,500 kg integrated model can have a payload of about 400 kg.
Converted Vans
Valued for their compactness and manoeuvrability, their payload varies depending on the type of conversion and installed equipment. A 3,500 kg converted van can offer a payload between 500 and 800 kg.
What is Included in the Empty Weight
According to EU regulation 1230/2012, the empty weight of the vehicle includes the driver (75 kg) and the fuel tank filled to 90% capacity. The basic equipment also includes a water tank filled to reduced volume for travel, and a full aluminium gas bottle with a capacity of 11 kg.
The empty weight includes lubricants, the onboard tool kit, the spare wheel, and a 90% full fuel tank. These items therefore do not need to be deducted from your payload.
How Much Do Items Weigh?
Vehicle:
- Full fresh water tank: ~100 kg (120L average — 20L included in empty weight)
- Grey water tank: ~50 kg
- Second passenger: ~75 kg
- Total: ~225 kg
Personal Items:
- Bedding: 7 kg
- Clothes: 20–30 kg (10–15 kg per person)
- Electrical devices: 6–10 kg
- Food: 30–50 kg
- Total: 60–100 kg
After-market Extras:
- Solar panel: 10–25 kg
- Leisure battery: 20–30 kg
- Awning: 25–35 kg
- TV: 3–8 kg
- Air conditioning unit: 20–50 kg
- Reversing camera: ~2 kg
- Total: 80–150 kg
Total estimate: 365–475 kg — comfortably under the average payload weight for most motorhomes.
When Additional Consideration May Be Required
Generally, searching out higher payloads is only appropriate if:
- You plan to carry a scooter
- You require additional solar, battery power, water, and food for very lengthy off-grid trips
- You have a party of more than 2 people
Having Motorhomes Weighed
Generally speaking, dealers will not go to the effort of weighing a motorhome for you prior to purchase. The expectation is that you are provided the official vehicle payload figure from the registration document, and it is your responsibility to work to this.
Attempting this in the peak buying season of February–June is a no-go. Asking in the off-season may be more successful, but to date, the only client who has successfully had their vehicle weighed was conducting enquiries in person.
Final Thoughts
There are many things that appear worrisome when doing your pre-trip research. The advice: keep it simple. If you are planning an average trip, the average payload will be ample.