Of all the challenges of driving a campervan, crosswind is one that deserves the most respect (and one of the most underestimated). A tall vehicle with a lot of "sail" surface area and relatively light, is very sensitive to side gusts, which can shove it sideways suddenly and dangerously. Knowing how to handle it is key to your safety. Here are the tips.
Why it's so dangerous
A campervan is like a large vertical surface: side wind pushes hard, especially sudden gusts. This can:
- Push you out of your lane suddenly, especially at higher speeds.
- Cause you to lose control if it catches you off guard and you react sharply.
- In extreme cases, roll a tall vehicle in very severe conditions.
The risk increases with speed, poorly distributed weight (a lot up high) and how exposed the area is.
Risk areas and situations
- Bridges, viaducts and exposed high ground.
- Tunnel exits (you go from calm to a sudden gust).
- Open plains and coastal areas with no shelter; valleys that funnel the wind.
- Overtaking or being overtaken by lorries (the airflow changes suddenly).
- Areas with crosswind warning signs (the windsock sign).
How to drive in wind
- Slow down: this is the most effective thing you can do; at lower speed, wind affects you less and you react better.
- Grip the wheel firmly with both hands and correct with gentle movements, anticipating rather than jerking the wheel.
- Anticipate gusts: when leaving a tunnel, crossing a bridge or overtaking a lorry, brace for the gust.
- Increase your following distance.
- If the wind is very strong, stop: find a sheltered spot and wait. Driving through a wind storm isn't worth it (see storms).
When parking and staying overnight
Wind doesn't only affect you while driving: when parked overnight, point the camper's nose into the wind (it offers less resistance), put the awning away (its big enemy; see the awning) and avoid very exposed spots on stormy nights.
In summary
Crosswind is very dangerous for a tall, light vehicle like a camper, especially on bridges, at tunnel exits and when overtaking lorries; the key is to slow down and correct gently, anticipating gusts. The step you can take today: in windy conditions, reduce your speed, grip the wheel firmly with both hands and anticipate gusts in exposed areas; if it's blowing a storm, stop in a sheltered spot and wait. Combine it with storms.