# Rising motorhome and campervan popularity

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/rising-motorhome-and-campervan-popularity
> Updated: 2026-09-15T09:52:00.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

The popularity of motorhomes and campervans has seen significant growth, with vehicle numbers in central registers exceeding one million as of April 2025, more than doubling since 2017.

This rise in popularity has introduced various legal, regulatory, and technical considerations. In France, friction has emerged between travelers and municipalities over parking restrictions. While some towns have used signage to ban motorhomes, the Conseil d’État has indicated that municipalities may not discriminate between vehicles of similar size or weight under the French Highway Code.

Additionally, drivers face specific licensing requirements based on vehicle weight. While a standard Class B license covers vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes, the B96 extension allows for a combined weight of up to 4.25 tonnes. On a technical level, travelers are increasingly managing interior temperatures through retrofitting roof-mounted air conditioning units.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-15: Motorhome popularity rises as vehicle numbers exceed one million

Motorhome ownership has more than doubled since 2017, reaching over one million vehicles. Drivers should note licensing limits for gross weights and consider roof air conditioning for summer comfort.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/motorhome-popularity-rises-as-vehicle-numbers-exceed-one-million

### 2026-08-18: Motorhome travel trends face legal and social challenges

As motorhome popularity grows, legal disputes arise over municipal parking bans, while some retirees embrace the nomadic lifestyle for its freedom and cost savings.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/motorhome-travel-trends-face-legal-and-social-challenges

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Cite as: Rising motorhome and campervan popularity. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/rising-motorhome-and-campervan-popularity