A complete guide to hiring campervans for the UK and Europe

There's something undeniably appealing about the idea of traveling with a campervan – the freedom to explore at your own pace, the comfort of having a home on wheels, and the ability to change your itinerary on a whim. Campervan hire opens up a world of possibilities for your travel adventures.

You may just park up at a fabulous campsite and simply enjoy the luxury of your hired vehicle. Or you might be more adventurous and take a fabulous tour visiting one spectacular place after another. Perhaps you want to adventure to wilder locations or more remote locations. 

Whether you plan to embark on a road trip around the UK or venture further into Europe, a campervan allows you to experience destinations like never before.

So why rent a campervan?

Not everyone has the money to buy a campervan, and perhaps not even the time to make full use of such an expensive vehicle. Hiring a vehicle when you need it can make financial sense.

Your hired vehicle will be safety checked, roadworthy at all times and usually in near perfect condition, professionally cleaned and ready for immediate use. Plus, you are only going to pay for the time you are actually using the vehicle.

If you hire a campervan you can change the type of vehicle you want to use every time you travel. For a quick weekend away, you might only need a small campervan for two, but for a longer break with family and friends you could need a much bigger model with the privacy and personal space of your own toilet and washroom.

Whatever your needs are, hiring gives you the flexibility to choose the right vehicle for your holiday.

If you are considering buying your first campervan, what better way to help you decide on a significant investment is there than actually trying out your vehicle before you buy?

Hiring lets you see what layout, vehicle type or even engine size suits you best.

There are various sizes of campervans available, from compact, two-berth campervans, to large, family-friendly vehicles with fixed beds. As well as taking into consideration how many people will be travelling, think about whether you are comfortable driving a larger vehicle.

Some campervans are no longer than a typical family estate car, but many conversions will be longer, taller and wider.

A vintage VW campervan hire might seem fun, but, if it has low fuel economy or breaks down when leaving the rental station, then that isn’t going to give you a great holiday experience.

Choosing a newer model, less than three years old, will help to ensure your holiday is not interrupted by mechanical and performance issues.

If you want to head to a campsite and use the campervan as a home away from home, then a large vehicle will better suit your purposes than a small camper.

While a large campervan might have a shower and toilet and a fully equipped kitchen, if you plan to only use the campsite’s facilities and eat in local restaurants, then perhaps a campervan with fewer on-board facilities might be better.

Match the vehicle you choose to hire to the nature of your holiday. If you are intending to explore country lanes, high moors, travel over mountainous roads and wild camp, then a large campervan will be less suitable than a compact model.

If you’re using ferries, bear in mind vehicles over six metres long can attract a higher cost, so smaller is definitely better if you’re going to places like the Scottish islands or travelling to Europe.

For many travellers, a holiday isn't complete without their furry companions. The good news is that numerous campervan rental companies offer dog-friendly options, allowing you to bring your four-legged friend along for the adventure.

When selecting a dog-friendly campervan, ensure it has ample space for your pet to move comfortably and securely during the journey. Keep in mind that some rental companies may have specific pet policies and additional cleaning fees, so be sure to enquire about these details.

Additional costs to take into account include insurance, fuel (including heating and cooking fuel like gas), campsite bookings and any ferry costs if you are going overseas. Also make sure that you ask about charges that could be incurred on return – excess cleaning charges, emptying the toilet, returning without a full tank of fuel and the gas you have used from the gas bottle.

Most companies will have prices on their websites – school holidays, as always, are likely to be the most expensive periods – but campervan hire is much cheaper in the winter.

The best way is always to speak to the hire company directly. Make sure you know generally where you will be heading, when you will be going and who will be driving.

When hiring a campervan, it's essential to consider insurance coverage. While most reputable campervan rental companies provide insurance options, it's crucial to understand what is included and what may require additional coverage. Comprehensive insurance should cover accidents, damage, theft, and third-party liability.

Before finalising your booking, thoroughly review the insurance policy and discuss any concerns with the rental company to ensure you're adequately protected throughout your journey.

Did you know that you can also hire out your campervan when you're not using it? Renting out your campervan can help offset maintenance costs and generate additional income. Numerous peer-to-peer campervan rental platforms, such as Camplify and Goboony, make it easy to list your vehicle for hire.

Before doing so, ensure your campervan is well-maintained, meets safety standards, and has all the necessary amenities to provide a memorable experience for renters.

Campervan hire opens up a world of opportunities for adventurous travellers seeking a unique and unforgettable journey. With the freedom to roam at your own pace and the comfort of a home on wheels, a campervan allows you to embrace the true essence of travel.

Whether you're exploring the stunning landscapes of the UK or embarking on an epic European road trip, hiring a campervan can be the gateway to a lifetime of cherished memories. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and let the adventure begin!