The Ultimate Guide to Travelling Around Scotland in a Campervan

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The Ultimate Guide to Travelling Around Scotland in a Campervan

Why Travel Scotland by Campervan?

Scotland is built for campervan adventures — stunning landscapes, wild camping opportunities, and winding scenic roads through mountains, lochs, and rugged coastlines.

Top Routes

1. North Coast 500 (NC500)

  • Start/End: Inverness
  • Distance: ~500 miles (805 km)
  • Highlights: Applecross Pass, Duncansby Stacks, Smoo Cave, white-sand beaches like Achmelvich
  • Tip: Drive clockwise for easier passing on narrow roads.

2. Isle of Skye

  • Reachable by bridge
  • Must-sees: Fairy Pools, Old Man of Storr, Quiraing, Neist Point Lighthouse
  • Campsites: Glenbrittle or Torvaig

3. The Highlands and Cairngorms

  • Wildlife: Red deer, eagles, dolphins on the Moray Coast
  • Activities: Hiking, climbing, stargazing
  • Dark Sky Parks: Galloway Forest Park

4. Argyll & Bute and the West Coast

  • Explore the Isles: Mull, Iona, Staffa
  • CalMac ferries make island hopping easy with your camper.

Where to Stay

Campsites

Use Pitchup.com or Camping and Caravanning Club

Many offer stunning views and good facilities

Wild Camping (Legal with Respect)

Allowed under Scottish Outdoor Access Code

Avoid no-camping zones, especially in popular areas

Leave no trace and be considerate

What to Pack

  • Waterproofs & layers (weather changes fast!)
  • Midge repellent (especially in summer)
  • Leveling blocks for uneven pitches
  • Power bank / solar panel for off-grid charging
  • OS Maps app or a paper road atlas

Facilities & Essentials

  • LPG Refill: Available at many fuel stations (check myLPG.eu)
  • Water/Dumping Stations: Found at campsites or camper stops
  • Toilets: Use campsite or public facilities when possible
  • Fuel: Fill up often in remote areas

Food & Drink

  • Stock up at supermarkets in towns
  • Visit farm shops and local bakeries
  • Try Scottish classics: Cullen skink, venison, haggis, tablet

Useful Apps

  • Park4Night – Find overnight spots and facilities
  • Campercontact – Trusted camper stop listings
  • Scottish Weather (Met Office) – Always check weather warnings
  • Komoot / AllTrails – Find hikes nearby

Best Time to Travel

  • Spring (April–June): Fewer midges, long days
  • Autumn (Sept–Oct): Stunning colours, quieter roads
  • Summer: Most popular but book ahead, prepare for midges!

Campervan Travel Tips

  • Stick to passing places on single-track roads
  • Don’t block access to homes, farms, or viewpoints
  • Respect the 2-minute rule at viewpoints for photos
  • Be kind, wave often — it’s the campervan way!
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Jolly Campers started with one van and a love for adventure. Today, we try to share that feeling with as many people as possible—whether you're hitting the road or listing your camper with us.

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