The Ultimate Guide to Taking Your Campervan Abroad

Taking your campervan or motorhome abroad opens up a whole new world of adventure beyond the UK. Whether you’re dreaming of winding French country roads, the sun-soaked coastlines of Spain, or the majestic Alps, travelling through Europe by campervan is a unique and flexible way to experience it all. With your home on wheels, you get the freedom to stop where you like, discover hidden gems, and tailor your journey to suit your travel style.

This guide is designed specifically for UK travellers, especially those setting off for the first time. It breaks down every essential step, from preparing documentation and selecting the perfect vehicle, to understanding European road rules and booking your Channel crossing. Having the right information up front is key to avoiding unwanted surprises, costly mistakes, or last-minute scrambles for paperwork or equipment.

Expect clear, practical advice for every stage of your planning and trip. You’ll learn how to navigate border crossings, meet new regulations post-Brexit, tackle language barriers, and keep yourself and your vehicle safe abroad. From the basics of what to pack, to the finer points of campsite etiquette and insurance, this guide covers it all for a stress-free and enjoyable European campervan adventure.

Planning Your First Time Abroad With a Campervan

Setting off on your first trip abroad with a campervan is thrilling, but it’s normal to feel a bit daunted by the prospect. Planning ahead helps make sure the adventure is all you’d hoped for, rather than a mad dash to fix forgotten details. Having a roadmap for the early stages, from choosing when to travel to picking the right routes and stops, can make a big difference.

One of the first steps is to get familiar with the countries you’ll drive through, not just the sights you want to see. Each European country has its own road rules, signage, and ways of doing things—these are often quite different from what you’re used to in the UK. Researching in advance saves both time and stress when you’re on the road, and helps you avoid running afoul of local laws or etiquette.

Cultural differences can be part of the fun, from language barriers to the way campsites operate. Embracing these new experiences, while staying aware of practicalities like local fuel types and toll roads, means your trip can be both safe and memorable. The next section offers practical tips and confidence-building advice to help make your first campervan journey in Europe both enjoyable and smooth from the start.

Essential Tips for Travelling Abroad for the First Time

1. Plan your route carefully. Research your intended countries and main roads before leaving, considering distances, toll routes, and popular motorhome stopovers. Using a sat nav with European maps helps, but always have a physical map as backup.
2. Check local road rules and signage. Speed limits, road signs, and rules like priority to the right vary across Europe. Familiarise yourself with each country’s main quirks before setting off to reduce confusion once you cross the border.
3. Choose your travel dates wisely. Travelling outside main school holidays or avoiding popular public holiday weekends means quieter roads, easier campsite bookings, and a more relaxed experience.
4. Adapt to local etiquette and culture. Be aware that campsite customs, meal times, and queuing habits often differ from the UK. A little cultural flexibility goes a long way in building positive interactions on your trip.
5. Prepare for language differences. Learn a few key phrases in each country’s language, especially for asking for directions, buying fuel, and checking into campsites. Downloading an offline translation app can be a lifesaver in remote areas.
6. Pack light but smart. Space is limited, so prioritise essentials like documents, suitable clothing, cooking basics, and safety equipment. Don’t forget adaptors for electrical hook-ups and any country-specific items needed.
7. Stay ahead with paperwork and insurance. Always carry your documentation, including passports, driving licences, and proof of vehicle ownership or hire. Double-check expiry dates before departure, and ensure your insurance covers all countries you’ll visit.
8. Know how to refuel and pay for fuel. Payment systems and fuel types can vary across Europe. Self-service is common, and card-readers may not always accept UK debit cards, so bring a spare credit card or some local cash.
9. Be flexible and patient. Unexpected roadworks, queuing at border checks, or minor miscommunications are part of the journey. Leave room in your plan for detours or spontaneous changes—freedom is what campervanning is all about.

Necessary Documentation and Paperwork for Taking Your Campervan Overseas

Setting off across Europe in your campervan brings new requirements for documents and paperwork, especially since Brexit changed some of the old rules. It’s crucial to make sure you have everything you need for legal travel—not just for yourself, but also for your motorhome. Border officials in Europe can and do request original documents, and the right paperwork is essential for insurance, campsites, and even repair assistance on the road.

This section sets the stage for understanding exactly what is expected at both the Channel crossing and inland border points between European countries. You’ll be introduced to the importance of valid identification, up-to-date driving licences, and the vehicle log book. There are differences between taking your own vehicle and hiring one, which can impact customs procedures or temporary import rules in certain European nations.

Having the proper documentation provides peace of mind and saves you from unexpected hassle, fines, or even being turned away at the border. Read on to find out what specific documents you need, why they are important, and how to keep them safe until you return home.

Passports, Driving Licences and V5C Vehicle Log Book

1. Passport: Every traveller will need a valid UK passport with at least six months remaining before expiry on your intended return date. Many European countries enforce this rule strictly, so double-check expiry dates before travelling.
2. Driving Licence: UK drivers must carry their photocard driving licence. If you still have a paper licence, you may need to upgrade it. Some non-EU countries may require an International Driving Permit (IDP), so check country-specific requirements.
3. V5C Vehicle Log Book (Registration Document): The original V5C log book identifies you as the legal keeper of the campervan. Without it, you may be denied entry, particularly at land borders or during checks inside the Schengen Area.
4. Insurance Documents: Bring proof of motor insurance valid for all countries you’ll drive through. Some European countries now require a physical Green Card, especially outside the EU or in non-Schengen states, so request this from your insurer before travel.
5. MOT Certificate and Tax: Make sure your vehicle’s MOT and tax are up-to-date. While not always checked, failing to maintain legal status in the UK can cause serious problems if you need roadside help or are involved in an incident abroad.
6. Backup Copies: Photocopy all documents and store digital backups securely online or in your phone. This is invaluable if you lose originals or need details in an emergency.
7. For Hired Vehicles: If you’re using a rental motorhome, secure a Vehicle on Hire Certificate (VE103B). This proves you have the owner’s permission to take the vehicle abroad and is required for customs and police checks.

Which Campervan Should I Choose for Europe?

Picking the right campervan is one of the most important decisions for your European road trip. Not every vehicle suits every route or travel style, and European roads—especially in older city centres or mountain regions—often pose challenges not commonly faced in the UK. Consider both the size of your group and the sort of locations you hope to visit.

This section introduces the key factors to weigh up, from overall dimensions and manoeuvrability to onboard features that ensure comfort during longer trips. Fuel efficiency can differ greatly between vehicles, and parking is often tighter than you might expect, especially in popular tourist destinations or historic towns.

You’ll also learn about the pros and cons of taking your own campervan compared to hiring one, and get a checklist of essential items for your EU travel pack. Each subsection that follows dives deeper, helping you match the right type of vehicle and gear to your route, plans, and budget.

Choosing the Best Campervan for Europe

1. Vehicle Size and Manoeuvrability: A smaller campervan is easier to drive on narrow or winding European roads, and often fits well in older towns with tight parking. Consider what size will balance comfort and practicality for your destinations.
2. Fuel Efficiency: Diesel vehicles are common, but fuel prices and emissions rules vary across Europe. Look for a campervan that offers good mileage and check if AdBlue is needed for your model, as availability can differ by country.
3. Sleeping and Living Arrangements: Choose a layout that suits your needs—think about bed size, dedicated sleeping areas versus convertible spaces, and onboard facilities like a shower, toilet, or a proper kitchen. Comfort on long journeys is vital.
4. Onboard Features and Storage: Prioritise storage space for essentials, and make sure you have secure places for clothing, food, outdoor gear, and safety equipment. Optional extras like bike racks or solar panels can make certain types of trips easier.
5. Parking and Access: Height restrictions, weight limits, and parking rules are stricter in some European destinations. Double-check the rules for places you plan to visit—sometimes a lower, van-style camper is more flexible than a high-top motorhome.
6. Ease of Driving and Comfort: Features like comfortable seats, air conditioning, and good visibility make long hours driving much more pleasant. Driving aids such as reversing cameras are helpful in unfamiliar towns or campsites.
7. Insurance and Documentation Suitability: Ensure your chosen campervan can be easily covered by European insurance and breakdown providers. Modified or highly bespoke vehicles sometimes face more challenges with paperwork abroad.

Motorhome Hire Versus Using Your Own Campervan

• Cost and Convenience: Hiring often costs more, but means less wear and tear on your own vehicle and can include breakdown cover and insurance. Taking your own van is more budget-friendly if you already own one.
• Legal Implications: Hired vehicles require a Vehicle on Hire Certificate (VE103B) and special permission for overseas use—double-check rental terms and which countries they cover before booking.
• Flexibility and Suitability: Rentals let you choose the best van for the trip, with recent models and specific features. Your own camper may be more customised but less suited to all European road types.

What to Pack in Your EU Travel Pack

• Legal Documents: Passports, driving licences, V5C or VE103B, insurance, MOT certificate, and European Accident Statement Form.
• Safety Equipment: Warning triangles, hi-vis vests for all occupants, spare bulbs and fuses, and a first aid kit—some of these are mandatory in many European countries.
• Electric and Gas Adapters: European plug adapters for electric hook-ups, gas bottle adapters, and multi-country travel adaptors for charging devices.
• Spare Essential Items: Headlamp converters, extra fuel can (if permitted), and copies of booking confirmations.
• EU Breakdown and Medical Kits: Proof of breakdown cover and GHIC/EHIC health cards, plus emergency snacks and water for unexpected delays.

Crossing the Channel With Your Campervan

Travelling from the UK to mainland Europe with your campervan is an exciting first step—and a practical one that brings its own choices. The two main options are taking the Eurotunnel (Le Shuttle) or one of the many Cross-Channel ferries. Each has its own requirements, booking procedures, and check-in routines, so it’s best to understand the process before you set off.

This section introduces both ways to get your vehicle over the Channel, with a focus on keeping things as simple and stress-free as possible. The right choice may depend on your location, schedule, budget, and whether you’re bringing pets. At both the tunnel and ferry terminals, you’ll need to show your documents and undergo some checks—these will be covered in the details below.

Expect guidance on what to book in advance, what documentation to have ready, and what to expect during the crossing. From vehicle size restrictions to safety checks and border inspections, the next sections lay out exactly what to do for a smooth start to your European road trip adventure.

Taking the Eurotunnel With Your Campervan

1. Booking Your Crossing: Book tickets online for Le Shuttle (Eurotunnel) and specify that you’re travelling with a campervan or motorhome. List your vehicle’s size and any accessories (like bike racks) accurately to avoid issues at check-in.
2. Arrival and Check-In: Arrive at least 45 minutes before departure. You’ll need your passport, vehicle documents, and booking confirmation. The check-in lanes include height and length sensors, so make sure your details match your booking.
3. Customs and Border Checks: Border control officers will check your passports and vehicle documents. Be ready with insurance and V5C or VE103B if applicable. Make sure your campervan displays a UK sticker if travelling to the EU.
4. Safety Procedures: You’ll be directed onto the shuttle train with other vehicles. Apply your caravan handbrake, turn off your gas supply at the bottle, and secure all internal items—Eurotunnel staff will often check this.
5. During the Journey: The crossing is quick (about 35 minutes), and you stay inside your vehicle with seatbelts on. There are no restrooms on board, so use facilities before boarding. Pets remain in vehicles but may require documentation.
6. Vehicle Restrictions: Some size limits apply, particularly for extra-tall, wide, or heavy campers. Check Eurotunnel rules in advance to ensure your motorhome fits within the accepted categories.

Taking the Ferry to Mainland Europe With a Motorhome

1. Booking Your Ferry: Compare ferry companies serving routes like Dover-Calais or Portsmouth-Caen. When booking, enter the correct height, length, and number plate details of your campervan, including extras like bike racks or roof boxes.
2. Arriving at Port: Arrive at least 90 minutes early during peak periods. You’ll show your booking confirmation, passports, and all mandatory vehicle documents at check-in.
3. Customs, Border, and Safety Checks: Border staff may inspect your documents, vehicle, or even your fridge and food supplies. Make sure your gas bottles are turned off and secured, and be ready to declare extra fuel or certain goods if asked.
4. Vehicle Loading and Access: Staff direct you to the vehicle deck, where you’ll park in gear with your handbrake on. Note where you park, as returning to the vehicle at sea is usually not allowed.
5. Onboard Comfort and Facilities: Ferry journeys allow you to leave the vehicle and access restaurants, lounges, and restrooms. Many ferries are dog-friendly, but rules vary—reserve a pet cabin or kennel in advance if needed.
6. Waste Disposal and Rules: Do not empty waste tanks or toilets on board. Follow staff instructions and be mindful of fire safety regulations and prohibited items. After docking, follow signs and instructions for safe disembarkation.

Driving in Europe: Rules, Signs and Speed Limits

Driving across Europe brings a completely new set of rules and road layouts for UK campervan travellers. From unfamiliar signs to changing speed limits and mandatory equipment, preparation is key for a safe and enjoyable journey. Roads may be narrower, sometimes with strict weight and height limits—especially in historic towns or mountain regions.

This section acts as your primer for adapting to continental motoring. You’ll get a sense of what to expect behind the wheel, highlighting the need to update yourself on each country’s regulations before you arrive. Knowing the main differences in advance helps prevent fines, confusion, and accidents on the road.

The following subsections break down road rules, signage, speed limits, toll roads, and the essential safety equipment you must carry. Each topic is designed to help first-time drivers in Europe feel comfortable and legal, so you can focus on enjoying the stunning scenery around every bend.

European Driving Rules, Road Signs and Toll Roads

1. Driving Side and Priority Rules: Most of Europe drives on the right. Be mindful of priority rules—‘priority to the right’ is common in France, while roundabouts can work differently than in the UK. Adjust your mirrors and approach with care at each junction.
2. Speed Limits: Limits vary by country and vehicle size. On motorways, they typically range between 110–130 km/h, but can drop much lower for motorhomes or in poor weather. Always look for posted signs as limits can change abruptly in built-up areas or through villages.
3. Road Signs and Markings: Signs are often pictorial but may have local terms or colours you’re unfamiliar with. Brush up on common signs for hazards, parking, and low-emissions zones in your target countries. A translation app helps with less obvious instructions.
4. Toll Roads and Vignettes: Many European countries charge motorway tolls or require a ‘vignette’ sticker (e.g. Switzerland, Austria). Payment methods vary—keep cash, credit cards, or pre-bought electronic passes handy. Non-payment can result in hefty fines.
5. Low Emission and Crit’Air Zones: Some cities restrict access for diesel vehicles or require pollution stickers (like France’s Crit’Air). Research restrictions before entering urban areas, especially with older models.
6. Sat Nav and Cameras: Use a sat nav with up-to-date European maps and avoid using devices that warn of speed cameras—these are banned in France and some other nations.
7. Language Barriers: Keep a translation app or basic phrasebook for checking signs, petrol pump labels, and parking instructions. Learning key terms for ‘maximum height’, ‘no entry’, or ‘toll’ can make travel much less stressful.

Mandatory Safety Equipment for Your Campervan Trip

1. Warning Triangle: Required in most countries for use in the event of breakdowns or accidents. Store it within easy reach inside your vehicle.
2. Hi-Vis Vests: Every occupant must have a hi-vis jacket, kept in the passenger compartment (not the boot). These are mandatory in countries like France and Spain, especially if you need to exit on a motorway.
3. Spare Bulbs and Fuses: Many European nations require you to carry spare bulbs for headlights and indicators, along with the necessary fuses. This allows for swift replacement if you experience a fault.
4. First Aid Kit: A stocked first aid kit is compulsory in several countries, and always a sensible addition for long journeys and outdoor activities.
5. Headlamp Beam Converters: These stickers or adjusters ensure your headlights do not dazzle oncoming drivers when driving on the right. Swap them over before boarding your ferry or the Eurotunnel.
6. Fire Extinguisher: Required in countries like Belgium, and useful for extra peace of mind in a motorhome.
7. Breathalysers: France currently recommends carrying a breathalyser, though fines for not carrying one have been dropped—it’s still good practice.
8. UK Sticker: Since Brexit, a UK sticker (not GB) must be displayed on the rear of your vehicle in mainland Europe, unless your number plate already shows ‘UK’.

Where Can I Camp in Europe in My Campervan?

Europe offers an incredible variety of places to stay overnight in your campervan, from official campsites with full facilities to simple service areas and wild spots surrounded by nature. Each country has its own regulations and culture around camping, so knowing your options—and the rules—is vital to keep your holiday stress-free and legal.

This section introduces travellers to the main types of overnight parking available across Europe, as well as how to identify legitimate locations. You’ll learn how to tell if wild camping is allowed, where to find services like water or waste disposal, and what to expect from both large multi-service campsites and smaller aires or local stopovers.

Campsite customs, amenities, and booking systems can feel different than in the UK, and signage may not always be in English. Look out for cultural differences, and rely on translation tools or local apps to help you interpret rules or communicate in reception. The following subsections provide guides for safe, comfortable, and memorable stays across Europe’s diverse landscapes.

Official Campsites, Aires and Rules on Wild Camping

1. Official Campsites: Found across Europe, these range from simple pitches to fully serviced resorts with pools, shops, and cafés. Most offer electric hook-ups, clean water, toilets, showers, and waste facilities, making them a reliable choice for families or longer stays.
2. Aires de Service: Unique to Europe, these are dedicated parking and service areas for campervans and motorhomes, often found near towns or along motorways. Facilities include water, grey/black waste disposal, and occasionally electricity. They’re excellent for quick overnight stops and are usually cheaper than full campsites.
3. Wild Camping: Rules vary widely by country and region. Wild camping is tolerated in parts of Scandinavia and Scotland, but is strictly banned or heavily policed elsewhere, like Spain and Italy. Always check local regulations to avoid fines or being moved on in the night.
4. Understanding Signs and Local Customs: Signage may not be in English, so look for common symbols and use translation apps where signs mention restrictions, fees, or specific ‘no overnight parking’ instructions. Respect local bylaws and avoid blocking access routes, farming areas, or scenic spots.
5. Campsite Booking and Etiquette: Many campsites can be booked in advance online or over the phone. Arrive early in high season, especially in popular regions. Be courteous to neighbours, keep noise low at night, and always leave your pitch clean.

Gas, Electricity and Carbon Monoxide Safety Abroad

• Electric Hook-Up Adaptors: Bring European-specific adaptors for campsite hook-ups. These differ from UK plugs and can be purchased at most caravan retailers.
• Safe Gas Usage: Ensure your gas supply (butane/propane) is compatible with European fittings—adaptor kits may be essential. Always turn off gas before boarding ferries, tunnels, and while driving.
• Carbon Monoxide Safety: Fit a working carbon monoxide alarm in your campervan and test it regularly. This is vital for safe heating and cooking in confined spaces.
• Battery Charging and Inverter Use: Know your camper’s electrical set-up for charging devices and running appliances. Solar panels are helpful for wild camping, but always monitor battery levels to avoid power loss.

Breakdown Cover and Insurance for Motorhome Travel in Europe

1. European Breakdown Cover: Choose a policy tailored for motorhomes—not all standard car breakdown services will assist large vehicles abroad. Check what’s included (towing, roadside repairs, onward travel), and ensure the policy covers every country in your itinerary.
2. Motorhome Insurance: Confirm your policy allows for driving outside the UK, and if there are any limits on days abroad per trip or per year. Some insurers require notification and paperwork before departure.
3. Green Card and Documentation: Some European countries (especially outside the EU/EEA) still require a Green Card to prove insurance. Request this from your provider in good time.
4. Repatriation Cover: In case of major breakdown or accident, repatriation cover pays for your campervan (and possibly you) to be returned to the UK, often essential for peace of mind on long European routes.
5. Lost in Translation Support: Look for insurers offering multilingual support or emergency helplines—if you break down somewhere remote or in a non-English-speaking area, getting help quickly matters.

Health and Travel Insurance for UK Campervan Travellers

1. GHIC or EHIC Card: Carry a valid UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC, which replaced the EHIC in most cases). This entitles you to basic state healthcare in EU countries at local rates, but does not cover private care or repatriation.
2. Comprehensive Travel Insurance: Always buy a policy that covers medical emergencies, repatriation, and travel disruption. Standard health insurance does not replace travel insurance—check cover includes high-cost items like hospital stays and medical evacuation.
3. Pre-existing Medical Conditions: Declare all conditions when arranging insurance. Undisclosed health issues can invalidate a claim, and insurers often offer tailored policies for those with ongoing needs.
4. Emergency Medical Treatment: Know how to access local healthcare—save emergency numbers and the addresses of major hospitals near your planned route.
5. Protection for Personal Items: Choose a policy that covers the contents of your campervan (laptops, cameras, bikes), not just health costs. Theft is rare but possible, so having the right cover is a smart precaution.

Bringing a Pet on Your Campervan Holiday in Europe

1. Animal Health Certificate: Pets (mainly dogs, cats, and ferrets) need an Animal Health Certificate issued by an official vet no more than 10 days before you travel. This proves microchipping, vaccinations, and tapeworm treatment (where needed).
2. Microchipping: All pets must be microchipped before travel—this is checked at the border and is key for reunification if lost abroad.
3. Country-Specific Rules: Some countries may have their own additional requirements, such as certain banned breeds or extra vaccinations. Always research the rules for each country you’ll visit.
4. Pet Comfort and Safety: Plan rest stops, never leave animals locked in a hot van, and consider both the route and daily drive times to accommodate your pet’s needs.
5. Pet-Friendly Facilities: Book ferries, campsites, and attractions with clear pet policies. Many European campsites are welcoming to dogs, but check any leash, vaccination, or behavioural rules in advance.