I may be a "newbie " for this club but not a new motorhome user. I agree with previous comments about the freedom. It's great. Personally when going to the continent all I book is the ferry fare, the one bit I like to know is secure, and it seems kinder to my dog than to risk waiting around. Most people have a sat-nav and I'm no exception, but I always have a road atlas too. Michelin is my preference.
Motorhome owners are a friendly helpful lot. You will usually find someone to chat with and should a misadventure occur you don't have to ask for help, everyone rallies round. National boundaries don't exist in that sense!
Off you go and enjoy it.