RV 444 Rule Explained – Simple Guide for Motorhome Drivers

If you’ve ever booked a campsite and seen “RV 444” on the form, you’re not alone. The term pops up on many UK sites, and most campers wonder what it actually means. In plain English, the RV 444 rule is a safety guideline that tells you how a motorhome must be set up when you’re parked at a powered site. It covers three basics: the size of the power cable, the type of plug you need, and the minimum distance the vehicle must keep from the hook‑up point.

What the RV 444 rule actually means

First, the “444” part isn’t a random number – it stands for three things that each need a “4”.

• 4 metre limit: Your motorhome should be no longer than 4 m from the campsite’s electric socket. This keeps the cable short enough to avoid voltage drop.
• 4 amp rating: The hook‑up must be a 13 A, 3‑pin (BS 1363) socket that can safely deliver at least 4 amp of current to power lights, a fridge, and a small heater.
• 4 inch clearance: There should be at least 4 inches (10 cm) of free space around the plug to prevent tripping and to let you snap the connector in easily.

Most UK campsites already meet these specs, but when you’re using a private pitch or a boondocking spot, you’ll need to check yourself. Ignoring the rule can lead to blown fuses, short‑circuit warnings, or even a fine from the site manager.

How to stay compliant on the road

Here are three quick steps to make sure you never break the RV 444 rule:

1. Measure your cable length: Keep a roll of 4 m cable handy. If the site’s socket is farther away, use an extension that’s rated for the same current and make sure the total length stays under 4 m.
2. Carry the right plug: Most UK motorhomes come with a standard 13 A plug, but some older rigs have a 15 A Euro‑plug. Pack an adapter that converts to the BS 1363 type and check the amp rating on the campsite’s board.
3. Leave a clear zone: Before you settle in, pull the vehicle back a little and make sure nothing blocks the plug area. A small space also helps you move the cable without pulling on the socket.

When you follow these three actions, you’ll avoid the common headaches that many travellers face – like a dead fridge or a flickering lights that make night‑time cooking impossible.

Also, remember that the RV 444 rule isn’t about speed limits or seat‑belt laws; it’s purely about electrical safety while you’re parked. That means you can still enjoy driving, sleeping, and cooking in your motorhome – just keep the power setup tidy.

Got a question about a specific site? Call the campsite ahead of time and ask them if they meet the “4‑metre, 4‑amp, 4‑inch” criteria. Most places will know the answer and can offer a longer cable if needed.

Bottom line: the RV 444 rule is a simple checklist that protects your gear and keeps the campsite happy. Check the distance, the plug type, and the clearance, and you’re good to go. Happy travels!