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How Much Can You Safely Carry?

Free motorhome payload calculator. Check your real carrying capacity.Motorhome payload limits can be tighter than you think. Enter your reg or weights and we'll show exactly how much capacity you have for passengers, water, fuel, bikes, and gear.

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Motorhome payload is the weight you can carry on top of the vehicle's unladen weight. It covers passengers, water, fuel, clothing, food, bikes, and all your touring equipment. Running out of payload is one of the most common mistakes motorhome buyers make.

Payload = GVW minus unladen weight (MRO)
Budget 150-200 kg per person for realistic planning
Water weighs 1 kg per litre (80-120L tanks = 80-120 kg)
Diesel weighs 0.85 kg per litre
Two bikes + rack can add 50-65 kg
Exceeding GVW: fines, penalty points, voided insurance

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I passed my driving test before 1 January 1997

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Frequently Asked Questions

Payload is the difference between the motorhome's Mass in Running Order (MRO/unladen weight) and its Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM). This is the weight available for passengers, fuel, water, food, clothing, and equipment.

A good rule of thumb is 150-200kg per person travelling, plus 50-100kg for water, gas, and essentials. A couple typically needs 400-500kg payload minimum. Families should look for 600kg+.

Exceeding your motorhome's MAM is illegal and dangerous. You could face fines up to £300 and 3 penalty points. Your insurance may be invalidated, and in the event of an accident you could face serious legal consequences.

Find the GVW/MAM on the weight plate (usually on the driver's door frame). Subtract the unladen weight (MRO) from the GVW. The difference is your available payload. Enter your reg above for an instant check.

Some motorhomes can be re-plated to a higher MAM if the chassis supports it. This requires an engineer's report and DVLA notification. However, increasing above 3,500kg means you'll need a C1 licence.

Water weighs exactly 1kg per litre. A typical motorhome water tank holds 80-120 litres, adding 80-120kg. Many experienced tourers travel with a half-full tank (40-60L) to save weight.

A typical cycle rack weighs 15-25kg. Each adult bike adds 12-18kg. Two bikes plus rack can easily add 50-65kg to your payload. E-bikes weigh 20-30kg each.

MRO (Mass in Running Order) includes the driver (75kg), full fuel, and factory equipment. MIRO (Mass in Running Order) is similar but may not include the driver. Check your handbook for the exact definition used.