Campervan Road Trip in Scotland and Ireland: Hire, Rules and Itineraries

Setting off at your own pace, sleeping by a loch and waking up at the foot of the mountains: a road trip in a van in Scotland or Ireland It's a dream destination for more and more travelers. However, these two countries have their own rules: narrow roads, driving on the left, and regulated wild camping. Based in the UK since 2012, we organize tailor-made road trips. Here are our tips for renting a van or campervan and our favorite routes.

In short: For a road trip in a campervan in Scotland or Ireland, book your vehicle several months in advance for the summer, choose a compact model for narrow roads, and plan to spend most nights in campsites. In Scotland, sleeping in a vehicle outside of campsites is not covered by the access permit and is restricted depending on the location. In Ireland, wild camping is generally prohibited. Allow 10 to 14 days for the North Coast 500 or the Wild Atlantic Way.

Van, campervan or car: which to choose for your van road trip?

A Converted van (campervan) is compact and easy to drive on small roads. On the other hand, a motorhome (motorhome) offers more comfort, but it is wider and more difficult to maneuver. Finally, the car with accommodation often remains the simplest solution in the off-season. To help you, also read our guide for renting a car in the UK and Ireland.

TAKE THE TEST

Ireland or Scotland: which destination suits you best?

5 questions, less than a minute.

Question 1 of 5

Which landscape appeals to you the most?

Wild mountains, lochs and valleysCliffs, ocean and major coastal roads

Question 2 of 5

What kind of atmosphere are you looking for?

Highlands, castles and whiskyPubs, music and welcoming villages

Question 3 of 5

Your ideal day

A hike with spectacular viewsA road trip punctuated by small ports and beaches

Question 4 of 5

Which setting do you dream about the most?

Skye, Glencoe and the CairngormsConnemara, Kerry and the Wild Atlantic Way

Question 5 of 5

For your next trip, you prefer…

A spectacular and mountainous landscapeA friendly atmosphere and an ever-present coastline

In Scotland, as in Ireland, many rural roads are single-track with passing places. Therefore, we strongly recommend a vehicle less than 6 meters long.

Road trip in a van in Scotland

Where to sleep in a van in Scotland?

Scotland is known for its very open right of access, the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. However, this right applies to hiking and tent camping, not motorized vehicles. Therefore, sleeping in your campervan in a car park or by the roadside is subject to local regulations, and some very popular areas prohibit it. We therefore advise booking campsites in advance and respecting the signs on site. More information is available on the official website of the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

The most beautiful van routes in Scotland

• The North Coast 500, The great loop of the northern Highlands, which can be done in 7 to 10 days. Read our North Coast 500 guide.
• The Isle of Skye and the west coast, between Glencoe, Fort William and the islands.
• To the east, the Cairngorms and the whisky route, in Speyside.
• Finally, the Outer Hebrides, which can be reached by ferry, for the more adventurous.

For more ideas, check out our selection of scenic routes of Scotland.

Road trip in a van in Ireland

Where to sleep in a van in Ireland?

In Ireland, there is no general right to wild camping, and many car parks prohibit motorhomes overnight. Therefore, you should plan to stay in campsites, many of which close between October and March. Furthermore, during peak season, the best campsites on the west coast are booked well in advance.

The most beautiful van routes in Ireland

• The Wild Atlantic Way, The great coastal highway of the west. Read our guide to the Wild Atlantic Way in 10 days.
• Kerry, with the Ring of Kerry and the Dingle Peninsula. Note that large vehicles are advised to travel the Ring of Kerry in one direction only.
• Further north, Connemara and Donegal, wilder and less frequented.

Our practical tips for a road trip in a van

• Book early : in July and August, the vans leave several months in advance.
• Left-hand drive : take the time to get used to it before driving on smaller roads.
• Ferries : for Skye or the islands, book the crossing with the vehicle.
• Weather report : plan to bring warm and waterproof clothing, even in summer.
• Mosquitoes : In Scotland, midges are numerous from June to September near the lochs.

Frequently asked questions about road trips in a van

How much does it cost to rent a van in Scotland or Ireland?

In practice, prices vary considerably depending on the season and the model. In peak season, expect to pay over €100 per day for a van, and even more for a large motorhome. Conversely, prices drop significantly in spring and autumn.

Is wild camping allowed?

Camping in a tent is largely permitted in Scotland, provided the access code is respected. Ireland, however, does not generally allow it. Finally, both countries regulate overnight stays in vehicles.

What is the best time to travel by campervan?

Generally, from May to September, the days are long and the campsites are open. May and September are often the best months: fewer people, fewer midges, and lower prices.

Can you organize our road trip in a van?

Yes. In practical terms, we plan your itinerary, book campsites, ferries, and tours, and assist you in French throughout your trip. If you prefer more comfort, we also offer road trips with accommodations, such as our 10-day road trip in Ireland.

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