Driving in windy conditions (1 Viewer)

[nigglynelly]

Apologies if this has already been discussed but I would appreciate any advice for driving motorhomes in very windy gusty conditions?

I had a terrible journey back from Norfolk recently in high winds which has made me a rather reluctant to venture out in gusty conditions. I still want to continue using my van and as strong winds seem to be a regular weather condition these days any driving advice to increase my confidence would be welcome.

 

[pappajohn]

best advise i can give is SLOW DOWN.

gives you a better reaction time to any wayward movements.

 

[motorhomelover]

The best advise has been given :thumb: well done papa Jon
SLOW DOWN even to a crawl if the wind is strong
Stop in a safe place for a while the winds may drop
Don't let the weather stop your enjoyment of the motor home :thumb:

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[Teepee]

Totally agree with above replies.

 

[TheBig1]

air ride suspension helps, but with any big vehicle, the best advice is slow down as already said or find somewhere safe to stop for a cuppa and a rest. high winds are outside your control, but staying safe is as simple as watching the weather forecast and avoiding it

 

[Don Quixote]

Great advice above, however like when snow falls - "do you need to travel" as they say.

The nice thing about the MH is you can stop for the day/night and let the weather pass.

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[PP Bear]

Great advice already given

You can also try to predict strong side winds and when they’ll affect you the most

Tall hedgerows along the roadsides will offer an element of protection, until you reach a sizeable gap and then you’re going to feel the increase against the side of the vehicle and can be prepared for it

Passing larger vehicles can also bring on a similar affect when the wind is blocked by them as you pass, just be careful and be ready to compensate once you pass again

Best option of all is the one to find shelter and simply park up and put the kettle on.

It’s what motorhoming is all about:thumb::thumb:

 

[HymerB544]

Driving in high winds

This is always a little unnerving, and I'm sure my advice is something you will already know as I'm sure you will have plenty of "normal" driving experience. First, I'd agree with the "slow down" advice, but I'd add to that, "resist any temptation to either grip the wheel too tightly, or over-correct any apparent movement". This is a bit like not gripping a golf club too hard as it ruins your feel and control. If you are constantly reacting to every gust, instead of allowing the van to recover on its own, you will find it more stressful and tiring. Hope that helps!

Gary

 

[AndyPandy]

Yes I raised this recently on here as we had driven back from Scotland in very high winds, in fact the A1 was closed behind us as an artic had gone over.

The best tip I got was to make the van more "bottom heavy". This can be done by taking heavy items from overhead cupboards and also fill with fuel and fill grey and fresh water tanks. Wow, what a difference it makes. I recon in our van we added 250 kgs of "ballast", and it made such an improvement.

We sail so are used to life at 40 degrees but it just ain't the same on the A1 lol

Happy sailing/motorhoming

Andy

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