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Motorhoming and Campervanning in Ireland- The Ultimate Guide

Planning to visit Ireland with a motorhome or campervan? Want to get some tips for places to visit, where to stay, routes to take and more? Here’s everything you need to know about motorhoming or campervanning in Ireland.

Don’t forget to download your FREE motorhome travel checklist below to help you plan your Irish road trip.

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Campervanning in Ireland – why you should go!

As I write this, I’m sitting in my motorhome by a beach in the Republic of Ireland. Sure, it’s rainy, but that’s not detracting from the beauty of this country. It’s not called the Emerald Isle for nothing!

Put simple, Ireland is a beautiful place for a road trip. There’s so much history, beautiful roads and places to explore and plenty of hospitable places to find food and entertainment, both in Northern and Southern Ireland (which they prefer to call the Republic.)

You can of course explore Ireland using public transport, but it’s so much better if you have your own vehicle- whether that’s a motorhome or campervan (our preferred options), or a car, caravan or even motorbike.

One of the best things about being able to explore Ireland on a motorhoming holiday is that you can see the differences between the regions and really get a feel for the country in a short space of time. It can also make your trip cheaper if you can buy and prepare your meals instead of having to buy them all- not to mention being able to stay overnight at some breathtaking locations.

In this guide, we’re going to share with you everything you need to know to go motorhoming or campervanning in Ireland, including getting to Ireland from the UK (or elsewhere), planning your route, where to stay (motorhome campsites, alternatives or wild camping with your camper), some road trip ideas and places to visit, driving tips and other practical advice to help you have an amazing Irish road trip.

Don’t forget to grab your free motorhome travel checklist which will help you plan and organise everything you need.

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Motorhoming in Ireland- When to go

Like most of the UK, the best time for a road trip is probably between April and October if you’re just considering the weather.

However, remember that it’s called the ‘Emerald Isle’ because it’s so green… and it’s green because it rains. A lot. Expect rain at any time of the year (yet another reason to be glad of your own vehicle… you can hide inside if the weather turns!) Of course, there are some sunny days as well, and you’re most likely to get those during the summer.

July and August are the main school holidays, so everything will be a lot busier then AND prices for everything will be higher- ferries, campsites and even some attraction fees.

Other major events in Ireland include the Rugby Six nations at the beginning of the year (which is mainly centred on Dublin), The Gathering- a traditional dancing and music festival held each February in Kilkenny and St Patricks Day on 17th March each year- the entire country celebrates it with a passion (celebrations often last a week!)

There’s also the Galway Food Festival in April, the Taste of Dublin food festival in June and National Heritage Week at the end of August, as well as many others.

So there’s never a ‘bad’ time to visit Ireland. If you’re able to travel outside of school holidays we highly recommend it, and you’ll never forget a St Patrick’s Day in Dublin! (Actually, that’s not strictly true; friends of mine moved to Dublin with their kids and I’ve spent many St Patrick’s Days there- I can’t seem to remember much of them at all… ? )

Highlights of an Ireland campervanning holiday

Some of the best places to visit in Ireland with a campervan or motorhome include:

• Cliffs of Moher – unbelievably dramatic
• The Wild Atlantic Way- 1700 miles of dramatic coastline and traditional Irish culture
• Giants Causeway (Northern Ireland)
• Dark Hedges road- famous as a Game of Thrones filming location . You can drive down it, but not in a motorhome!
• Dublin- one of our favourite cities in Europe
• The Ring of Kerry- one of the best road trips in Ireland
• The Rock of Cashel- Ireland’s most visited Heritage site
• Blarney Castle and the Blarney Stone
• Dunmore Head- mainland Ireland’s most westernmost point
• Torc waterfall- one of the best waterfalls in Europe

Talking of TV shows and movies, here are some of the biggest which were shot in Ireland:

• Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince  (Cliffs of Moher, Lemon Rock)
• Star Wars: The Force Awakens/The Last Jedi  (Skellig Michael island)
• Braveheart  (yes, I know it’s about Scotland!)- Bective Abbey, Curragh Plains, Trim Castle)
• Saving Private Ryan  Ballinesker Beach- the setting for the D-Day landings in opening 20 minutes
• The Princess Bride  (Cliffs of Moher)
• Game of Thrones  (see some guided tours here )

Of course, there are MANY other incredible locations and places to visit in Ireland- we can’t possibly list them all.

If you enjoy reading books before a trip, here are some we recommend:

See more fun and practical motorhoming books we recommend reading

Getting to Ireland from Britain with a motorhome or camper

Ok, before we go any further, let’s clear up the confusion.

• Northern Ireland IS part of the UK. The Republic of Ireland is not
• The Republic of Ireland is in the EU. Northern Ireland is not
• Great Britain (or Britain) refers to the landmass of England, Scotland and Wales
• The British Isles is the UK AND the Republic of Ireland (plus the Channel Islands, Scilly Isles and thousands of other small islands.) There’s an excellent article explaining it all here

However, even knowing all that, many people (myself included!) incorrectly say going from the UK to Ireland, when they mean from Britain. So, my apologies should I make that error elsewhere.

Crossing from Northern Ireland to Southern Ireland

To get to Republic of Ireland from Northern Ireland you… drive across the border. It used to be incredibly easy- it’s now a little harder thanks to BREXIT, but it’s still just a matter of driving south. There will be a border to cross and you’ll need to carry all the correct documents. Depending on your route, there may be a toll charge.

Getting to Ireland by Ferry from rest of the UK

For the rest of the UK (otherwise known as Britain!), if you want to take your own motorhome or campervan across to Ireland, you’ll need to get on a ferry. There are a few ferry routes to choose from:

• Holyhead to Dublin (Irish Ferries)
• Pembroke to Rosslare (Irish Ferries)
• Liverpool to Dublin (P&O Ferries)
• Cairnryan to Larne (P&O Ferries)
• Cairnryan to Belfast (Stena Line)
• Liverpool to Belfast (Stena Line)
• Holyhead to Dublin (Stena Line)
• Fishguard to Rosslare (Stena Line)

Getting to Ireland from France

There are also ferries which go directly from France to Ireland.

• Cherbourg to Dublin which usually runs 3 times weekly (Irish Ferries)
• Cherbourg to Rosslare once per week (Brittany Ferries)
• Roscoff to Cork twice weekly (Brittany Ferries)
• Roscoff to Rosslare once weekly (Brittany Ferries)
• Cherbourg to Rosslare which runs three times a week (Stena Line)

Travelling around Ireland

Once you’re over in Ireland, whether it’s North or South, the road system is very good and easy to navigate. We’ll talk more about the rules, speed limits and other things to know shortly.

New to motorhome or camper travel in Europe? You might find these posts helpful:

See all our Europe motorhoming posts here

NEED GEAR? If you need any kit or essentials for motorhoming in Europe, here’s what we recommend and where to find it

Hiring a motorhome to tour Ireland

Of course, if you don’t have or want to pay to take your vehicle to Ireland, or you’re travelling from further away, the easiest option is to fly in to Ireland and rent a motorhome or campervan to use during your stay. Just make sure to ask how to get from the airport to the rental agency- not all of them are at the airport itself and you might need to book a taxi.

The biggest airports in Ireland are:

• Dublin Airport  – east coast
• Cork Airport  – south coast
• Shannon Airport  – west coast (near Limerick)
• Knock Airport  – mid/ north West (but still in the Republic of Ireland)
• Belfast Airport  – in Northern Ireland

To rent a vehicle in Ireland you must:

• be at least 21 years old, although many hire car companies have a minimum age of 25 (certain car categories may require older)
• There may be restrictions for over 70s as well
• have had a driving licence for more than one year
• show identification (identity card for EU citizens or a valid passport for other nationalities) 

You can expect to pay around £100/ day for a campervan in June out of peak season- be sure to ask the right questions so you know what to expect from your motorhome or campervan rental

Bear in mind that you might need to pay an additional fee to drive from the Republic of Ireland into Northern Ireland (or vice versa) so check with your hire company before you book.

Don’t forget, it is YOUR responsibility to make sure the vehicle has the required safety equipment. The on-the-spot fines apply to you as the driver, not the company. Check in advance with the company what kit they will provide with the vehicle and what you will need to bring.

Take a list of what is legally required with you and check it off one by one as you are given the handover. Do not drive until you are happy you comply with the local laws.

Want to rent a vehicle for your road trip?

These might help:

• Discover incredible deals for motorhome/ camper rentals
• Find the best deals for car rental

READ: 10 essential questions to ask before you rent a motorhome

Campervan rules in Ireland- what gear you need to carry

Things you need to carry to legally drive in ireland.

You’ll be pleased to know that, unlike motorhoming in France or much of the rest of Europe, Ireland is similar to the rules in the UK, so there are very few things you LEGALLY have to carry (although we recommend them anyway.) There are:

• UK sticker attached to the back of vehicle or reg plates (and trailer if you have one)
• A spare wheel (and tools to change it!), or a tyre repair kit.
• If you wear glasses you MUST carry a spare pair
• Crash helmets are mandatory for motorbike/ moped riders and passengers

NOTE: Hi-vis reflective jackets , Warning triangles and Headlight beam converters (if you have a UK vehicle) are not required in Ireland. If you have a European vehicle (ie- you normally drive on the right), you will need headlight converters.

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What documents do you need to road trip in Ireland?

If you’re driving in Ireland, you need to carry the following documents:

• Passport (or identity card)
• Driving licence (check it is in date!)
• Motorhome Insurance documents- check you are covered for driving in Europe
• Breakdown cover
• Vehicle V5 logbook (which must show your correct address)
• Vehicle must be legally taxed and MOT’d
• Trailer certification
• Green card (get from your vehicle insurer)
• International Driving Permit if required
• Personal travel insurance

Do I need an international driving permit to drive in Ireland?

Most UK citizens do not need an IDP to drive in Ireland, as long as you have a card driving licence issued in the UK (in date, of course!)

You might need one if you have:

• a paper driving licence only
• a licence issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man

(If you do need an IDP, here’s an  in-depth guide on how to get an International Driving Permit  and which one(s) you need from a UK post office.

Touring Ireland in a campervan- Other useful things you might need

We’ve been touring Europe in our motorhome for several years. We’ve tried all sorts of kit- some useful, some not so much.

Here is a list of things we highly recommend when motorhoming in Ireland, but which are NOT essential:

• Motorhome WiFi – learn our favourite way to get internet on the road
• Toll pass (see below)
• TV- If you’d like TV in your motorhome or camper , here’s how to get it.
• Motorhome sat-nav – get one you can enter your motorhome dimensions into, like these
• Motorhome security camera – this thing is GOLD for allowing us to go exploring and leave the van for a short time.
• Solar panel- perfect if you want to wild camp in Ireland with your motorhome
• Inverter- a motorhome wild camping essential
• An awesome motorhoming logbook to record and remember your adventures!

Motorhome Stopovers and Overnight camper parking in Ireland

Like most countries in Europe, there are several types of places where you can stop with your motorhome or campervan overnight in Ireland.

• Free/ approved motorhome parking schemes
• Wild Camping (we’ll talk more about the legality of that shortly)

Motorhome Campsites in Ireland

Campsites in Ireland are much like other campsites anywhere around the UK or Europe. Some are all-singing and dancing, with pools, entertainment and more, while others are more basic (and usually cheaper!) It’s pretty easy to find a campsite near to you or near to where you are going, especially if you’re a member of club or have a book!

You normally don’t need to book in advance unless you’re visiting in peak season or during a festival (or over St Patrick’s weekend. Also, if you’re a member of one of the UK’s biggest motorhome clubs , they have some sites in Ireland which you can book through their systems.

Be aware that many campsites close for winter, some as early as September and don’t re-open until Easter. So do your research, especially if you’re travelling out of season.

TOP TIP: If you can travel outside peak times, use your ACSI Camping Card to reduce the cost of campsite stays

Aires in Ireland

Ireland, like the UK, does not have ‘aires’ in the same way you might be used to if motorhoming in France , Germany or Italy.

An aire is just an approved overnight motorhome parking area which isn’t a campsite. Ireland DOES have many places where motorhomes and campervans can stay overnight- with permission. But they don’t work in the same way as aires.

Approved overnight motorhome parking

There are several schemes which connect motorhomers and campervanners who don’t want to stay in campsites every night to businesses and places happy to allow overnight parking (usually without facilities). This is in exchange for you buying some of their products or services, such as a meal in a restaurant.

Safe Nights Ireland

One such scheme is Safe Nights Ireland – which has over 350 locations around Northern and Southern Ireland. You can join the scheme for just 15€ a year and get access to any places which are part of the scheme.

Pub Overnight Stops in Ireland

Pubs are a great option for a free overnight parking stop if you’re already going to eat at them. Many of them will allow motorhomes and campervans to stay overnight in their car parks (some even allow caravans). Obviously, this is only for the night- you probably wouldn’t be able to stay there for a week, although I suppose there’s no harm in asking!

READ MORE: How we find places for free overnight motorhome stopovers

Wild camping in Ireland for motorhomes and campers

Is wild camping for motorhomes and campervans allowed in Ireland? The legal answer is no- you’re not allowed to stay anywhere with a motorised vehicle apart from on approved campsites, unless you have the landowners permission.

However, in reality, many people do motorhome wild camping all over Ireland and rarely have a problem.

There is a difference between ‘camping’ and ‘overnight parking’. Many people (us included) incorrectly refer to parking up overnight somewhere as motorhome wild camping, instead of overnight parking.

Overnight parking is parking up for one night and then moving on again in the morning. No awnings, outdoor furniture, BBQs, motorhome generators , washing lines or anything OUTSIDE the vehicle. In many remote places, if you arrive late in the afternoon and leave early-ish in the morning, you’ll be absolutely fine to stay overnight, unless there’s a clear sign banning motorhomes or campers overnight.

For tips on how to park overnight without upsetting local residents or drawing unwanted attention, read our complete guide to motorhome overnight parking (which we call wild camping. Sorry)

Wild Camping is a different matter, and is forbidden in Ireland. You will probably be asked to move on and/ or fined by the Police if you look like you are camping with your van.

Remember, you can always ask if you’re allowed to stay. The Irish are incredibly hospitable and if you’re polite and respectful, they’re very likely to allow you to stay without issue (especially if you’ve just paid money to them for something!)

Motorhome wild camping guides for the UK & Europe

For information on how to find good wild camping places, WHAT to do when you’re there and how to stay safe, check out our step-by-step guide for motorhome wild camping in the UK and Europe, complete with database of 250+ overnight spots we’ve stayed with our motorhome.

Don’t forget to grab your free wild camping checklist here

Motorhome and campervan service points in Ireland

Unlike in Europe, there are very few places to discharge waste and water and refill with fresh water apart from on the campsites. For this reason, it’s worth booking into a campsite for a night every few days, in order to use its services.

Some campsites will allow you to pay a small fee and use the services without paying for an overnight stop- you’l have to ask as you go.

Driving tips for Ireland

Some useful tips for driving in Ireland, whatever your vehicle. Ireland has a fairly good road network, especially around the major towns and cities. However, some of the smaller rural roads can be VERY narrow and many are marked as unsuitable for larger vehicles, like motorhomes.

Often, these small roads are single track, and have passing places. These are places to pull in to let another vehicle go past from the other direction, NOT somewhere to park up and go for a walk.

Also, expect slow-moving farm vehicles on these roads- it can take a while to get anywhere and no-one in Ireland is in much of a hurry. So don’t over-estimate how far you can travel in one day. Also, expect sheep, cows and other animals to wander out into the road in front of you at any moment.

• Drive on the left (like in the UK, the opposite to most of Europe)
• Stay to the left on roads with more than one lane and overtake on the right.
• At roundabouts and junctions, traffic already on the road and coming from the right has priority.
• Motorways are marked with an ‘M’
• Seatbelts are compulsory for front and rear passengers
• All children up to 135 cms in height or up to 12 years of age, must use a suitable child seat (Northern Ireland)
• Handsfree kits are required if using a mobile phone
• Devices warning of speed cameras are forbidden
• Dipped headlights are to be used during poor visibility.
• Motorcycles must use dipped headlights during the day at all times.

Speed Limits in Ireland

IMPORTANT: The Republic of Ireland drives in km/h (like most of Europe). Northern Ireland drives in mph (like the rest of the UK). If you change the settings on your motorhome sat-nav , remember to change it if you cross the border!

Breaking the speed limit in either Northern or Southern Ireland will result in a fixed penalty and/ or penalty points on your driving licence.

On the spot fines are rare, but it is possible to be pulled over by the police force for speeding and given a fixed penalty notice and/ or plus a £100 fine.

Republic of IRELAND

Speed Limits for vehicles under 3.5t are as follows (unless otherwise signed!)

• Motorways- 120km/h (74mph)
• National roads/ dual carriageways- 100 km/h (62 mph)
• Regional roads- 80km/h (50mph)
• Built up areas- 50 km/h (31 mph)

Speed limits for vehicle OVER 3.5t

• Motorways/ – 90 km/h (55 mph)
• National roads/ dual carriageways- 80 km/h (50 mph)

Speed limits in Northern Ireland

• Motorways/ – 70 mph (
• National roads/ dual carriageways- 60mph
• Built up areas- 30 mph (50kph)

Speed cameras in Ireland

There are both static and mobile speed cameras in Ireland. The mobile ones are mostly in vans which are moved around as the Irish police force (Garda Síochána) see fit.

Drink driving laws

The Republic of Ireland has stricter drink driving laws than Northern Ireland, only allowing 50 milligrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood (the UK and Northern Ireland is 80). As always, don’t drink and drive. If you are a new or a professional driver, the levels are even lower.

Tolls in Ireland

There are currently no toll roads in Northern Ireland.

There are 11 toll roads in the Republic of Ireland- not as many as you might be used to in France (and luckily not as expensive as Norway! ) You can see where they are here .

You can pay for the tolls using cash at the toll plazas (cards are accepted at a few but not all). Alternatively, you can sign up for a TollTag account and that will charge you as you drive.

The only road where you cannot pay as you drive is the M50. The M50 works a bit like a Dartford Tunnel- you need to pay for using it by 8pm the following day. You can pay at many garages and shops in the area, but the easiest way is online here.

If you are renting a vehicle, you will need to ask them how to pay for tolls/ the M50 but its common for you to need to pay yourself.

Petrol/ Diesel in Ireland

There are plenty of fuel stations across Ireland. As with everywhere, you’ll find the prices slightly higher on the motorways.

Petrol is Unleaded (95 / 98) – Green handles on pump

Diesel has black or yellow handles on pump

Some places are 24h pay at the pump, but may require you to go into the shop and pay the cashier either in advance or after you’ve filled up- there will be a sign to tell you what to do. (Leave your car in front of the pump and make a note of the pump number.)

You can pay using cash or a credit card. Many places do NOT take American Express. You can use your UK cards without a problem.

Parking in Ireland

Many places which allow parking during the day or night require payment. Usually you need to pay at the ticket machine display your parking ticket in the windscreen. Not doing this is likely to result in a fine.

Parking is  prohibited  when the road is marked with a red line or a double yellow line.

A disadvantage of a campervan in Ireland is that parking in cities and towns can be tough- many places have height barriers of around 2.5m (and most vans and motorhomes are taller than that!) Therefore, you would need to find on-street parking in the town, which can be difficult. Alternatively, park up or use a campsite nearby and use public transport to get in.

Getting LPG in Ireland

LPG (GPL) can be found at selected petrol stations and at autogas stations. If buying from a petrol station, you may need to wait for an attendant to turn the system on for you.

You can find places which sell LPG using  MyLPG.eu Ireland mostly uses the ACME connector.

LEARN MORE: Learn how we find LPG in Europe for our motorhome

More useful things to know when campervanning in Ireland

Some more tips to help you enjoy your time touring in Ireland.

Emergency Numbers: 112 will get you everything. 999 works as well.

Language – Irish Gaelic and English

Currency – Euros in the Republic of Ireland, GBP (British Pound) in Northern Ireland

Cards – most major credit and debit cards are accepted. American Express is only taken in large stores (often not at fuel stations)

Timezone – GMT (or the same as Britain) Ireland follows Britain in terms of moving forwards or backwards for summer time

Mobile Phone and Internet – You should be able to use your UK mobile and data without any issue in Ireland. If in doubt, check with your provider before you travel.

Tipping- It’s normal to leave around 10-15% of your bill as a tip after eating a meal in a restaurant. A tip for a barman is always appreciated (and can get you access to some hidden whiskies!) Tips for cab drivers and other services are also appreciated.

Shops – Neither Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland are particularly expensive in terms of food or goods- it’s about on par with the rest of the UK and you’ll see many of the same shops, especially in Northern Ireland. Tesco and Lidl are common.

The Republic of Ireland is staunchly Catholic and you may find many shops closed on Sundays and religious days. Some of the larger supermarkets and garages may be open for a few hours. Most shops close between 5pm-7pm during the week- supermarkets may be open as late as 10pm.

Northern Ireland follows the UK, so shops are often open 10-4pm on Sundays and close between 5pm-7pm during the week.

Campervanning in Ireland- security

Ireland, like the UK, has good areas and not-so-good areas in terms of crime rates. Vehicle break-ins do happen, as do petty theft and pickpocketing.

We highly recommend paying extra attention to your motorhome security when travelling in Ireland. You might even wish to fit an extra camper habitation door lock and never leave your vehicle unattended in an unsecure area.

READ MORE: Essential tips for protecting your van at home and on the road

Touring Ireland with a dog

Sadly, both Northern and the Republic of Ireland are not particularly dog-friendly, although some areas are better than others. Most places do not allow dogs into restaurants, cafes or pubs, although they do allow you to sit outside.

You might be allowed to take them on a train, but most buses ban all but the smallest lap dogs. They are allowed on beaches out of season, but during summer they are banned.

Having said all that, there are some INCREDIBLE places to walk your dog, so if you’re not fussed about eating out or using public transport, then you’ll have no problem with your dog in Ireland.

Getting to Ireland from Britain with a dog

Now that BREXIT has been and gone, the rules for entering Ireland with a dog have changed.

In order for your dog to travel into Ireland, you will need:

• A Microchip
• A rabies vaccination (you must wait 21 days before travel)
• An Animal Health Certificate (or Pet Passport for European pets)
• A Tapeworm treatment, administered 1-5 days before travel by an approved vet. (Note: you do NOT need tapeworm for going from Ireland to Britain)

You shouldn’t need to do anything to take your pet from Northern Ireland into the Republic of Ireland, or vice versa. For the most up-to-date information, check the Deara website

Using a Drone in Ireland

You can use a drone in Ireland, but there are certain things you need to do first.

READ MORE: What’s the best travel drone (and how to choose)

To use your drone in Ireland you need to register here (unless your drone weighs less than 250g!) If you do not do that, you must not fly higher than 15 meters.

Drones and similar remote-controlled flying devices must be kept at least a minimum 30m from people, vehicles and buildings that are not connected with the drone operator. Flying must happen in daylight only, below 120m and never fly closer than 5km to airports. The drone must always remain within the sight of the operator.

Please check for local regulations and military or other special restricted areas where all the aforementioned activities are forbidden by law.

Other posts you might find useful:

• Tips for motorhoming in Scotland
• Motorhoming in Europe- complete guide
• The best logbooks to record and remember your road trip
• Essential motorhome checks to do before you travel

See all our Europe travel tips and ideas

See all our UK road trip tips

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

Last update on 2024-04-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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7-Day Campervan Itinerary For Ireland

by wildandfree | Jun 28, 2019 | Ireland

Ireland is a country that needs to be explored by a campervan for many reasons. There are so many amazing campsites scattered around Ireland making it an idyllic place to camp. We got to live out our dream of “owning” a Sprinter Van thanks to @blacksheepvan and @retroventures !

We had one week to adventure around in their FIAT Ducato Adria Campervan Explorer . It was the perfect size for two people and even had a shower, toilet, and kitchen! It is crazy what they can pack into a 6-meter campervan. It has everything you could ever need!

We mapped out our 7-day itinerary around Ireland which covered over 700 miles. This route took us past all the highlights that western and southern Ireland had to offer.

Day 4-   It was a day of driving around in the campervan exploring Valentia Island , Portmagee , and the Kerry Cliffs .

Valentia Island is Ireland’s most westerly point located on the Wild Atlantic Way . There is a lot of beautiful nature to discover on the island. Not only is the nature diverse, but the island has a rich history as it was the birthplace of global communication.

This island is where the first successful transatlantic telegraph cable was laid between Ireland and Canada. This changed the way we communicated and is the reason for advancements in the telecommunication realm.

We crossed the bridge from Portmagee onto the island and drove up to the first viewpoint. It offered breathtaking views of the coastline and the Skellig Islands. This was the start of the Bray Head Loop which is a 2-hour circuit loop offering a breathtaking cliffside coastal hike. If you have time, I highly recommend taking a hike here if the weather is permitting.

The next stop was the slate quarry which dates back to 1816. This part of the drive was when the roads started to get narrower. Being in a transit van versus an RV really made the difference in being able to access some places. We found the transit to be compact for these small roads making it a lot easier to get around.

From the slate quarry, you can see the massive caves where they still mine slate today. There is also epic views of the coastline and lighthouse. We decided to venture down to the lighthouse next. This road was the smallest yet, but slow and steady wins the race. We are glad we decided to go down there as we found a beautiful spot to pull over on the ocean’s edge. We cooked breakfast (yum cheese toasties), played on the rocks, and checked out the lighthouse.

The island is pretty small and can be driven around in 2 hours or so with some stops along the way. We got back to the bridge to cross back onto the mainland and had built up an appetite.

We found street parking for the campervan in Portmagee and decided to walk down the colorful village. We found a pub and split a fish n chips and Guinness. No trip to Ireland is complete without having a shot of whiskey and a Guinness… Just saying!

Now, it was time to go hike off the food and beer. We headed about 15 minutes away to the Kerry Cliffs. There is a huge parking lot so no worries if you are in a campervan. It cost €4 per person to enter the cliffs and is totally worth it in our opinion. You hike 10 minutes uphill to the cliff’s edge and are rewarded with remarkable views. You can easily spend 1 hour here hiking around to the different viewpoints.

We were getting tired at this point as we’d seen and done a lot today! We headed back to the campsite and planned on cooking dinner to the sunset views. We just loved this camp site’s view. We lucked out another day of good weather and got to watch the sun duck below the green grassy meadows and bay.

Day 5-   We kept heading along the Ring of Kerry road today to our next campsite, Wave Crest Caravan and Camping Park . It was only a one-hour drive from our previous site. We decided to check into our site that morning to save a spot for later and grab the gate key. We scored another amazing camp spot with more epic sea views!

Our plans for the day was to head through Killarney National Park to the town of Killarney. This took drive was scenic, to say the least, with grassy and rocky mountains in every direction. Some must-see places in Killarney National Park are Torc Waterfall, Ladies View, Ross Castle, Kissane Sheep Farm, and Muckross House.

We spent about an hour at Torc Waterfall and an hour at Kissane Sheep Farm . The sheep farm was a cool experience to see how the farmers shear the sheep and how the cattle dogs do their daily work. The dogs could be controlled by a low whistle from the farmer telling it which direction to go next. This was worth the €7 to see. We even got to pet some adorable sheep!

We got to Killarney just in time for dinner. We found a gastropub called Celtic Whiskey Bar & Larder. They had the biggest selection of whiskey I’d ever laid eyes on. The server said there were over 1500 different types… We opted for the fillet steak and it was the perfect tenderness. It is exactly what was needed after a long day of exploring.

We had a bit of a drive ahead of us to get back to the campsite. We were hoping to make it back before dark. Luckily, made it back to our site with about 10 minutes to spare before nightfall. We had a successful day and were excited to wake up to the ocean views in the morning.

Day 6-  We planned to finish off the Ring of Kerry road today and headed to our next campsite, Eagle Point Camping. We left midmorning in order to make it to the town of Kenmare for lunch. This colorful town is located at the head of Kenmare Bay. There are tons of boutique galleries, craft shops, and good-quality restaurants. It is a great town to take a stroll in and grab a bite to eat.

We kept heading south to the town of Reendesert. This peninsula town is where our next campsite was. It again offered amazing bay views! We arrived and set up our chairs and tables outside on our little grass patio overlooking the water.

We then whipped out our disposable BBQ, which we have found quite convenient in the past, to cook up some pork chops and veggies. A sunny day, ocean views, plus a BBQ is the best way to spend any day. We enjoyed the sunset from the campervan and called it a night as we were getting up to drive to Blarney Caravan and Camping Park the following day.

Day 7-   We knew a visit to Ireland wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Jameson Distillery . We booked our tickets online the day before so that we could hop on the first tour of the day at 11 am. We had a 1.5-hour drive from our campsite to the distillery. This drive took us through Ireland’s green countryside just east of Cork to a town called Midleton.

The distillery tour took a little over an hour and ended with samplings of different whiskeys. Included in the tours ticket was also a free spirit at the end in the Jameson’s Bar. This is where we found our favorite Irish drink. Jameson with ginger ale and lime. Try it and thank me later. We were really impressed with the tour and found it was worth the money. There is also campervan parking in the parking lot next door to the distillery. There were signs up saying you could camp there up to 48 hours for free.  

After the distillery tour, we wandered around the area, grabbed a coffee, and headed for campsite number 5. This sadly was the last campsite of our trip. It was close to Cork and Blarney Castle which we planned to explore.  

The evening was spent walking around the very small town of Blarney. We went to the local pub, which was old and beautifully designed and grabbed one last Beef and Guinness stew before we left. It by far was our favorite Irish meal.

We had an early night as we planned on waking up at the crack of dawn to make the most out of our final day in Ireland.

Day 8-    We didn’t want to have to take the campervan back today. We were definitely in love with it and the size, plus the compactness of it. We feel if we were to ever buy one, this one would be the one! Our flight wasn’t until 7 pm so we had all day to make it back to @retroventures shop. We drove into Cork mid-morning and was able to find street parking a couple of blocks outside of the main area. We had a wander around and found a Texas BBQ place called White Rabbit Bar & BBQ. Since we hadn’t had any good BBQ in over 5 months, we thought it was worth a shot as it sounded delicious.

It was average but had me dreaming about being back in Texas. Nothing compares to Texas BBQ, but it held us over until we could return to Texas.

We were debating at lunch about going to Blarney Castle, but the price and the weather deterred us. Instead, we visited Blackrock Castle Observatory which was free to view from the outside and a neat castle on the river. After this, we started our one-hour drive back to @retroventures shop which is located near Limerick. We saved the last two hours before returning the campervan for packing and cleaning. In all honesty, it only took about 30 minutes to do this as we kept our luggage to a minimum and tried to keep the camper as clean as possible. It was easy to do as it is a small space. We had to say goodbye to our home on wheels to catch our flight back to London.

We found Ireland to be a beautiful country with very friendly locals, great food, and amazing unspoiled nature. We want to give a huge thanks to @BlacksheepVans and @RetroVentures for making our adventure possible. We highly recommend getting around in a campervan in Ireland as there are so many amazing campsites and places to visit.

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Campervan and Motorhome Rental in Ireland

Famous for its mediaeval castles and pubs, Ireland has much to offer, and with campervan and motorhome hires in Ireland, you can do it all with style. Campervan rental in Ireland allows you to explore the entire country and fall in love with its unique landscapes, Celtic heritage, and Irish hospitality. 

Ireland National Parks

In Ireland, you can rental a campervan and travel to explore the numerous national parks available. We recommend visiting Killykeen Forest Park, a densely wooded location known for its moderate hiking excursions. It's also an excellent place for a picnic. For more mountain hikes, visit Connemara National Park. The views are stunning across this 7,000-acre park with bogs and grasslands around every bend. 

When hiring a campervan in Ireland, you may also visit Curragh Chase Forest Park, Irish National Heritage Park (here you can see the Stone Age formations), and Wild Derrynane if you plan a road trip to South Ireland .  

Ireland Coastline, Lakes, and Rivers

Hire a campervan in Ireland to explore many of the coastline towns. You can book Ireland road trips from Dublin to Wexford, a noted mediaeval and boating area. You can head down to Cork, the second largest city in the country, home to the Blackrock Castle Observatory and the Blarney Stone. It's right off Lough Mahon and the River Lee.

With campervan rental in Ireland, you can find a few lakes to explore. Take your campervan or motorhome to Carrigfoyle Lake, near Wexford, for one of the most beautiful untouched lakes. If you want to do some fishing, Loch Mahon Fishing Lakes in Wexford are another option. More towards the centre of the country are Lough Ennell and Lough Owel, which are pretty tranquil lakes.

Visit Belfast by campervan or motorhome hire in Ireland. Here, you will be within a short drive of Lough Neagh, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Northern Ireland. Visit the National Nature Reserve of Oxford Island, which is nearby, if you want to do some swimming.

Campgrounds in Ireland

With our helpful how-to guides , you can explore all of Ireland in your campervan. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. With motorhomes in Ireland, you may need to reserve campsites before your visit. We recommend planning your trip to find campervan and motorhome-friendly campgrounds.

You can hire motorhomes and visit the region with ease. Most areas of Ireland offer a few campervan and motorhome campsite options. If you are looking for a location near Dublin, choose Camac Valley Tourist Caravan and Camping Park. If you are in Kerry, the waterfront campsites at Wave Crest Caravan and Camping Park are some of the best. Near Cork, you'll find Glengarriff Caravan and Camping Park. 

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Martin Dorey | 16 May 2020

The emerald eye: 5 of ireland's most scenic campervan journeys.

Martin Dorey has spent over 25 years exploring Ireland by campervan and motorhome. The result? His new book Take The Slow Road: Ireland, and these expert-recommended Irish campervan journeys...

1. The Copper Coast: Waterford

Tramore Beach (Shutterstock)

Best for: Hidden beaches

Between Tramore and Dungarvan on Ireland’s south coast you’ll find a UNESCO Global Geopark, old mine workings, fascinating geology and a whole lot of amazing beaches.

One of Ireland’s best loved wild swimming spots can be found at Newtown Cove near Tramore. Surfers might find a few secret spots on this coast too, while one of Ireland’s best hidden beaches, Stradbally, hides in plain sight.

There’s also a new ‘Greenway’ traffic-free route for walkers and cyclists, which links Dungarvan with Waterford. The views as you approach Dungarvan are spectacular. Stay at new designated motorhome parking places in Dungarvan.

2. The Slea Head Drive: Dingle Peninsula

Coumeenoole (Martin Dorey)

Best for: Cliff-hugging driving and beehive huts

Head west out of Dingle town on the Slea Head Drive and you’ll pass a collection of beehive huts hunkering down on the hillsides above the road. Some are still in use by local farmers but the best preserved are open to the public, for a small fee. No one knows their true age but suffice it to say they aren’t of this world.

Continue on and you’ll come to Coumeenoole, a beach with incredibly clean water, bright yellow sand and churning rollers. A little further on, Blasket Island Centre has stunning views of Great Blasket and reveals a fascinating story of people and language. Overnight at Campail Teach an Aragail near Dingle.

3. The Antrim Glens

Glenariff Falls (Martin Dorey)

Best for: Victorian attractions

The A2 coast road hugs the coast all the way between Larne and Cushendall. Further north you’ll find the big-hitting  Game Of Thrones attractions like the Giant’s Causeway and the Dark Hedges but, here the secret is to find lost Victorian wonders.

The Waterfall Walk, designed by visionary railwayman Berkeley Deane Wise, takes you down into the depths of a steep gorge to visit Glenariff’s spectacular falls. Further down the coast, on Islandmagee, another of his attractions, The Gobbins Path, will take you along the coast on a series of paths and bridges cut into the rock. Park up for the night in one of a few designated overnight spots at Glenariff.

4. The Shannon Waterway

The pretty town of Athlone on the Shannon (Shutterstock)

Best for: Getting to the Celtic heart

From the Shannon Pot to Killaloe, Ireland’s greatest river is awash with ancient sites and culture. Visit sweat houses on the shores of Lough Allen, if you can find them, or take a walk around Rinn Duin, one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval towns.

Roam contemporary art galleries in Athlone and Leitrim, sip a Guinness in Sean’s Bar in Athlone (Ireland’s oldest), marvel at stunning decorated high crosses at the ruined abbey at Clonmacnoise, and tour Ireland’s spiritual heartland, The Hill of Uisneach near Lough Ree. Stay at the motorhome overnight stop at Portumna.

5. From Clifden to Westport

The starry night sky at Clifden (Martin Dorey)

Best for: Glimpses of the Wild Atlantic Way

The Wild Atlantic Way covers 2,500km on Ireland’s west coast, so don’t expect to see it all in one go. But for a glimpse, the Sky Road, a wibbly wobbly ‘wow’ of a road that takes you out along the top of a finger of land in Connemara, just outside Clifden, is epic.

Park up for the night at Clifden Eco Beach Camping. Then there’s Killary Fjord, the Doolough Valley and finally, just outside Ireland’s coolest little town, Westport, there’s the hulk of Croagh Patrick. Climb it and see the 365 islands of Clew Bay below you. Stunning, in any weather.

Follow Martin's Irish journey

Take the Slow Road: Ireland  by Martin Dorey is published by Bloomsbury and is out now in paperback and ebook (Paperback, £20.00)

Discover more of scenic Ireland:

Wild atlantic way: the best road trip itinerary, 9 things to do in county down, northern ireland, northern ireland's causeway coast: the best road trip itinerary, related articles, looking for inspiration.

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The 2023 Motorhome Ireland Guide

Motorhoming in ireland – a complete guide, motorhome & campervan travel in ireland.

Ireland is a viable non-Schengen destination for motorhome travel. It can be easily reached from the UK or Northern Ireland and offers a blend of scenic landscapes, cultural heritage, and urban centres.

This guide provides practical information on navigating Ireland in a motorhome, including tips for managing campervan life.

This resource provides comprehensive information for those planning a road trip in Ireland, including driving tips, accommodation options, motorhome services, recommended destinations, and more.

Getting Your Motorhome to Ireland

Crossing the irish sea, liverpool to dublin.

The Liverpool to Dublin route is the sole means of travelling from England to Ireland, and P&O provides four crossings each day. You may select between day and night crossings, which last for eight hours, and arrive feeling energized for your motorhome tour.

Holyhead to Dublin

The Holyhead to Dublin route is available from Irish Ferries and Stena Line, with seven daily crossings from the northern tip of Anglesey in Wales.

The crossing takes only three and a half hours, making it a convenient option for those residing in central England.

Pembroke & Fishguard to Rosslare

Irish Ferries and Stena Line provide daily sailings to Rosslare from Pembroke and Fishguard, respectively, located on the south coast of Wales.

The crossing time from Pembroke is five hours, while it takes four hours and fifteen minutes from Fishguard to arrive.

The following transportation options are recommended for those in southern England seeking to travel to Ireland.

England to Northern Ireland

Stena Line offers two daily crossings on the Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast route, each lasting eight hours, with the choice of daytime or nighttime travel.

Scotland to Northern Ireland

The are two Scotland to Ireland crossings.

The Stena Lines ferry route from Cairnryan to Belfast has six crossings per day, with a travel time of two and a quarter hours on their ‘Superfast’ ships.

The ferry route from Cairnryan to Larne (located north of Belfast) is operated by P&O. It lasts approximately two hours. The service runs six times daily.

The Stranraer to Northern Ireland crossings stopped in 2012 as the newer and larger ferries required a deep water port.

France to Ireland

Rosscoff to cork/ringaskiddy.

Stena Line provides a twice-weekly overnight crossing that lasts fourteen hours between the ports of Ireland and Europe, making it a convenient option for those planning to tour between the two destinations.

Cherbourg/Roscoff to Rosslare

Brittany and Stena offer four weekly overnight sailings on the Cherbourg route, each lasting eighteen hours.

Stena offers a weekly 16-hour overnight crossing on the Roscoff route.

Spain to Ireland

Bilbao to rosslare.

Brittany Ferries offers two crossings per week from Bilbao and Rosslare, with a duration of 30 hours, making it a viable choice for extended European travels or individuals residing in Spain or southern France.

Crossing into Ireland from Northern Ireland

When sailing into Belfast, it is possible to navigate around the Mourne Mountains and reach the border of the Republic of Ireland within an hour. However, if entering through Larne, located north of Belfast, the journey south will take an additional thirty minutes.

Following Brexit, a formal agreement was established between Ireland and the United Kingdom, known as the Common Travel Area. Only citizens of Ireland and the UK can exercise CTA rights.

Do I need a visa for Ireland?

Passport controls are not in effect for Irish and UK citizens travelling between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland; you only notice the signs changing from MPH to KPH – that’s it. Neither a passport nor a visa is required to enter the other country.

When boarding a ferry, it is necessary to present identification, and some carriers require a passport. It is advisable to confirm the requirements beforehand. Additionally, an immigration officer may request proof of citizenship for Ireland or the UK; thus, carrying a passport is recommended.

How long can I stay in Ireland?

Ireland is excluded from the Schengen area. Therefore, visitors can spend time in the country without affecting 90 in the 180-day rule. UK citizens are allowed to reside in Ireland without any limitations or requirements.

When crossing the border, those who prefer alignment may switch their sat nav from miles to kilometres per hour. It should be noted that Ireland observes GMT, and therefore time does not need to be changed.

UK citizens are permitted to remain in the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days within 180 days.

The 90-in-180-day rule operates on a rolling basis, making it challenging to determine if you have adhered to the regulations, particularly if you have travelled to the Schengen area multiple times in the last 180 days.

What food can I take in my motorhome to Ireland?

The regulations for bringing food into Ireland via motorhome are intricate due to the Common Travel Area and vary depending on the entry point. Additional information can be obtained from the Food Safety Authority of Ireland’s website.

Can I use my mobile data in Ireland?

Data usage limitations in the EU vary depending on the mobile phone contract provider and start date. It’s recommended to confirm with the provider to avoid unexpected charges. More information on European SIM cards can be found in the guide , particularly for longer trips.

We recommend ConnectPlus for cloud sim connectivity in the UK and Europe. You can choose from unlimited data packs to just single days depending on your needs. The device is slim and connects with up to ten devices. It can be charged easily with a USB and delivered within a few days. 

Can I take a pet to Ireland in my motorhome?

Navigating entry into Ireland can be complex due to the common travel area. Additional information can be found at the provided link.

The Differences Between Northern Ireland and Ireland Explained

Northern Ireland is a constituent country of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, along with England, Scotland, and Wales.

Great Britain is a landmass comprising England, Scotland, and Wales and is not considered a single country.

The British Isles is a collection of islands that includes Great Britain, Ireland, the Isle of Man, the Isles of Scilly, the Channel Islands (such as Guernsey, Jersey, Sark, and Alderney), as well as several smaller islands.

Ireland is an independent country and a member of the EU, officially known as the Republic of Ireland. The term “Southern Ireland” is often misused to distinguish it from Northern Ireland. Still, it does not actually refer to a different country.

Motorhome & Campervan Hire Ireland

If you don’t own a motorhome or campervan, flying and renting one is an excellent option for touring Ireland.

Bunk Campers, a campervan rental company, is our recommended choice for Ireland. They offer pickup locations at Dublin Airport and Belfast, which makes round trips and one-way drop-offs convenient.

A two-berth campervan with a double bed in Ireland costs approximately €80-100 per night. Renters must be at least 21 years old.

When driving between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, there may be a fee of €20-30 that needs to be paid. You must inform your campervan rental company if you plan to cross the border.

When to Visit Ireland in a Motorhome

The peak tourist season is from June to early September, which offers longer days and warmer weather, making it ideal for a campervan holiday, although it may be busier.

Ireland’s areas with high tourist traffic include Dublin, Cork, and certain parts of the Wild Atlantic Way in Galway and Kerry. However, travelling in a van during the summer allows for quickly exploring less popular areas.

Planning between mid-April to May or late September to October is recommended for a more peaceful road trip in Ireland with favourable weather and liveliness as summer approaches.

From November to March, the number of visitors in the area decreases due to the colder and potentially dreary weather. Some tourist attractions may also be closed during this time. However, city sightseeing remains unaffected. The atmosphere in pubs and bars may be quieter during weekdays.

Winter is a popular time for festivals in Ireland, including St. Patricks Day on 17th March, the Galway food festival in April, the Cork Jazz Festival, and the Halloween celebrations in Derry-Londonderry held every October.

Driving a Motorhome in Ireland

Over the past decade, Ireland has received significant funding from the EU for its road network. As frequent visitors, we have observed substantial enhancements in the motorways around Dublin and the rural road system throughout the country.

Irish Speed Limits for Motorhomes

Adherence to speed limits when travelling by campervan in Europe is essential, as speed cameras and authorities may enforce fines for non-payment. This policy remains the same post-Brexit due to the continued information-sharing agreement with the DVLA.

Motorhomes 

• Town and city – 50 km/h
• National roads and dual carriageways – 100 km/h
• Regional and non-national roads – 80 km/h
• Motorway speed limits – 120 km/h
• Particular speed limits – 30 km/h or 60 km/h (assigned)

Motorhomes > 3,500 kg:

• National roads and dual carriageways – 80 km/h
• Motorway speed limits – 90 km/h

Documents You Need to Travel & Drive in Ireland

To ensure compliance with travel regulations, it is recommended that visitors to Ireland have a valid passport covering their stay. It should be noted that UK citizens are not required to possess a passport for entry, although carrying one is advised.

• As of August 2021, having third-party insurance is mandatory for all vehicles. Additionally, a green card is no longer needed to verify coverage while travelling in Europe.
• A UK driving licence permits driving in all EU countries. However, suppose you possess only a paper licence or a licence issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man. In that case, you will require an International Driving Permit.
• Breakdown cover documentation (not compulsory).
• Vehicle V5 logbook (which must show your correct address).
• Personal travel and medical insurance (we recommend True Traveller), EHIC orGHICcard (optional).
• Animal Health Certificate if you’re travelling with a pet to Ireland or Northern Ireland.

Vehicle Safety Equipment for Ireland

In contrast to other European nations, Ireland does not mandate possessing any vehicle equipment. However, our recommendation for necessary items is as follows:

• Warning triangle.
• Reflective jacket.
• Spare wheel and the tools to change a wheel or a tyre repair kit.
• First aid kit.
• Spare bulbs and fuses.
• Fire extinguisher.

Since 28th September 2021, you must display a UK sticker on the rear of your vehicle instead of a GB sticker unless you have a new style UK numberplate showing the Union Jack flag.

Driving a Motorhome in Ireland Tips

Ireland shares the same driving direction as the UK on the left side.

In certain rural regions, the width of the roads may not allow for safe motorhome travel. Still, smaller camper vans should be able to manage. In many cases, there are no areas designated for passing. Reviewing your intended route and strictly following any posted signs is advisable.

When driving in rural areas, it’s essential to be aware of slow-moving agricultural vehicles and animals like sheep and cows being herded along the roads. Driving cautiously and following local driving customs is recommended, as this is not a region where speed is a priority.

The use of A-frames by UK motorhomers abroad is not advised by the Department for Transport. There is some uncertainty regarding towing a car fixed to a trailer, as conflicting advice can be found online.

Vehicles that fall under the categories of campervans or motorhomes, and cars with caravans or trailers, must not exceed a maximum total length of 18.75m, a height of 4m, and a width of 2.55m.

The maximum weight limit for the driving axle is 10.5 tonnes, and for a single axle, it is 10 tonnes.

It is illegal to possess or utilize a radar detector. If discovered, one could face a penalty and have the equipment taken by the Garda.

Currently, there are no designated low-emission zones in Ireland.

Dublin is the only (at the time of writing) Irish city with an Urban Access Scheme implemented. Still, it solely pertains to vehicles with over five axles. Additional information can be found at the provided link.

The Garda has the authority to issue fixed penalty notices in person or attached to your windscreen. Payment must be made within 28 days, or you may choose to go to court. Fines not paid within the given timeframe will increase by 50%.

The legal limit for alcohol in Ireland is 50 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood, which is lower than the UK’s limit of 80 milligrams. Random breath testing is enforced in Ireland, and drunk drivers face severe penalties such as fines, imprisonment, and disqualification.

In the event of an accident, complete the EU Accident Statement. If your insurer hasn’t provided one, you can download it here. Use your hazard lights and warning triangle to stop safely and alert other drivers. Exchange details with the other party and take photos for your form. If the other party won’t give details or there is an injury, call the Garda on 112.

Toll Roads in Ireland

Ireland has a total of eleven motorways that require payment of tolls.

Certain toll stations do not accept credit cards. In contrast, the M50 toll road is solely electronic, necessitating online payment unless one possesses an electronic toll tag.

I've been camping since Santa brought my first tent when I was a wee boy in Scotland. Since then, I've camped out, stayed in motorhomes and Glamped worldwide. By day I sit in front of a computer, and by day off, Im typically found (lost) in the outdoors.

Guide To Camping Tent Sizes and Capacity

Glamping in ireland.

Motorhoming in Ireland – A Complete Guide

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Motorhome & Campervan Travel in Ireland

Ireland is a fantastic non-Schengen option for motorhome travel. Easily accessible from the UK or Northern Ireland, this understated country packs a punch of lush rolling hills, dramatic coastlines, rich heritage and entertaining cities.

In this guide, you’ll find lots of practical and helpful information about getting around Ireland in a motorhome, and how to manage campervan and motorhome life there.

From tips about driving, where to stay overnight and wild camping, to motorhome services and a round-up of the best motorhome destinations, you’ll find all the information you need for an amazing road trip in Ireland.

Motorhome Routes to Ireland

Crossing the irish sea, liverpool to dublin.

The only England to Ireland crossing is the Liverpool to Dublin option, where P&O offer four crossings per day. With both day and night crossings available and taking eight hours, you can choose to arrive refreshed and ready to start your motorhome tour.

Holyhead to Dublin

From the northern tip of Anglesey in Wales , the Holyhead to Dublin route is provided by both Irish Ferries and Stena Line, offering seven crossings a day between them.

This is a quick crossing of just three and a half hours, and a great option if you live in central England.

Pembroke & Fishguard to Rosslare

From Pembroke in the south of Wales, Irish Ferries sails to Rosslare twice a day. Stena Line also offers a twice daily service to Rosslare from Fishguard, a bit further up the Welsh coast.

From Pembroke the crossing takes five hours and from Fishguard, you’ll arrive in four hours and fifteen minutes.

These are the best options to get to Ireland if you live in southern England.

England to Northern Ireland

Stena Line operate the Liverpool Birkenhead to Belfast route twice a day. There are options of day and night crossings, both taking eight hours.

Scotland to Northern Ireland

The are two Scotland to Ireland crossings.

Cairnryan to Belfast, operated by Stena Lines, crosses six times and day and takes just two and a quarter hours on their ‘Superfast’ ships.

Cairnryan to Larne (north of Belfast), operated by P&O takes around two hours and also operates six times a day.

Crossings from Stranraer to Northern Ireland stopped in 2012 due to the need for a deep water port required for the larger more efficient ferries coming into service.

France to Ireland

Rosscoff to cork/ringaskiddy.

If you’re planning on touring into Europe from Ireland, or vice versa, Stena Line offer a twice a week fourteen hour overnight crossing between the two ports.

Cherbourg/Roscoff to Rosslare

Brittany and Stena offer four weekly overnight sailings between them on the Cherbourg route, both taking eighteen hours.

Stena also provide a once a week 16 hour overnight crossing on the Roscoff route.

Spain to Ireland

Bilbao to rosslare.

A mammoth 30 hour crossing, Brittany Ferries leaves both Bilbao and Rosslare twice a week. A good option for a longer European tour or for those living in Spain or southern France. Use

Crossing into Ireland from Northern Ireland

If you sail into Belfast, you can skirt around the Mourne Mountains and cross the border into the Republic of Ireland in just an hour. If you sail into Larne, north of Belfast, add another thirty minutes onto your journey south.

As a result of Brexit , Ireland and the United Kingdom formalised an agreement known as the Common Travel Area. CTA rights can only be exercised by citizens of Ireland and the UK.

Do I need a visa for Ireland?

There are no passport controls in operation for Irish and UK citizens travelling between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. You do not need to have a passport to enter the other country, and you don’t need a visa.

However, you must show identification to board a ferry and some sea carriers only accept a passport as valid identification, so check before you set off. You may also be asked by an immigration officer to prove that you are a citizen of Ireland or the UK, so its best to carry your passport with you. 

How long can I stay in Ireland?

Ireland is not part of the Schengen area and so can be visited without your time in the country being counted towards the 90 in 180 day rule. People who are citizens of the United Kingdom (UK) are  entitled to live in Ireland  without any conditions or restrictions.

If you like things to be aligned, change your sat nav from miles per hour to kilometres per hour when you cross the border. There is no need to change the time though, Ireland observes GMT.

What food can I take in my motorhome to Ireland?

Food you take into Ireland in your motorhome is classed as a personal import. The rules regarding this are complex because of the CTA and depend on whether you’re entering Ireland from the Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland or Europe. You can find out more from the Food Safety Aut h ority of Ireland website .

Can I use my mobile data in Ireland?

It very much depends on who your mobile phone contract is with and when you started the contract. All UK providers now limit data usage in the EU in some way or another, and it’s best to check with your provider to make sure you don’t run up a big bill. You can find lots of information in our guide to the best SIM cards in Europe , especially if you’re planning to be away for more than a few weeks.

We have been using and recommend ConnectPlus for cloud sim connectivity in the UK and Europe. You can choose from unlimited data packs to just single days, depending on your needs. The device is no larger than a slimline smart phone, connects with up to ten devices, is charged easily with a USB and can be delivered within a few days of ordering. Use the code ‘thegapdecaders’ at checkout to get 50% off in the first month!

Can I take a pet to Ireland in my motorhome?

This is also complicated because of the common travel area and your point of entry into Ireland. You can find out more here .

The Ultimate Guide to Motorhoming in Europe

If you’re planning a motorhome trip to Europe for the first time, our guide has tips, advice and info to help you plan your tour.

Don’t struggle trying to plan your European trip, find out everything you need to know before you go + loads of motorhoming tips for when you arrive.

The Differences Between Northern Ireland and Ireland Explained

Northern Ireland (or ‘Norn Iron’ as it is affectionately known by residents) is a part of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland , also known as the UK . The other countries in this sovereign state are England, Scotland and Wales.

Great Britain is not a country but a landmass, which is home to the countries of England, Scotland and Wales.

The British Isles is the name of the group of islands which are made up of Great Britain, the entire island of Ireland, The Isle of Man, The Isles of Scilly, The Channel Islands (including Guernsey, Jersey, Sark and Alderney) and lots of other much smaller islands.

Ireland is a completely separate and independent country (and a member of the EU) officially described as the Republic of Ireland. There is no such country as Southern Ireland, although it is often incorrectly used to differentiate between Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Motorhome & Campervan Hire Ireland

Flying and hiring a motorhome or campervan is the great way to tour Ireland if you don’t own one. 

Our recommended Ireland campervan hire company is Motorhome Republic , who have pickup locations at Cork, Dublin Airport, and Limerick, making round trips and one-way drop off really easy.

Expect to pay around €80-100 per night for a two berth van with a double bed. You need to be at least 21 years old to rent a campervan in Ireland.

If you plan to drive between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, there may be an additional fee to pay, usually around €20-30. Make sure to inform your campervan rental company that you plan to cross the border.

Useful motorhome advice and guides;

• Tips for Campervan Rental and Motorhome
• Europe Motorhome Touring Your Complete Guide
• 101+ Motorhome Essentials You Need + Packing Checklist
• New Motorhome Owner Beginners Tips
• 29 of the Best Van Apps – Free & Downloadable Now!

When to Visit Ireland in a Motorhome

Peak tourist season is June to early September and although it will be busier, you’ll get the benefit of the longer days and warmest weather, perfect for a campervan holiday.

The main areas affected by higher tourist traffic tend to be Dublin and Cork, and some stretches of the Wild Atlantic Way around Galway and Kerry. Don’t let this put you off travelling in summer though – when you’re travelling in a van its easy to get off the beaten path and away from the tourist hotspots.

Plan your Ireland motorhome trip from mid-April to May , and late September to October for quieter roads, good weather and all the craic that comes when the country starts to come alive for summer.

In the winter months between November and March , you won’t see many visitors, the weather may well be cold and and dreary and lots of tourist attractions will be closed. City sightseeings continues as always, but the atmosphere in pubs and bars may be lacking during the week.

Especially to brighten the dark months, the Irish hold some of their biggest and best festivals in winter. Think St Patricks Day on 17th March, the Galway food festival in April, the Cork Jazz Festival and Derry-Londonderry’s huge Halloween celebrations, both held in October every year.

Driving a Motorhome in Ireland

Ireland has seen a huge investment of EU money in the road network over the last ten years. As regular travellers there (Phil is from Northern Ireland), we’ve seen a massive improvement in the motorways around Dublin, and the rural road system across Ireland.

Irish Speed Limits for Motorhomes

Always observe the speed limits when  campervanning in Europe . There are speed cameras just as in the UK, and the Irish authorities have been known to pursue Brits for non-payment of fines. This has not changed since Brexit as the information sharing agreement with the DVLA continues.

Motorhomes < 3,500 kg

• Town and city – 50 km/h
• National roads and dual carriageways – 100 km/h
• Regional and non-national roads – 80 km/h
• Motorway speed limits – 120 km/h
• Special speed limits – 30 km/h or 60 km/h (as signed)

Motorhomes > 3,500 kg:

• National roads and dual carriageways – 80 km/h
• Motorway speed limits – 90 km/h

Documents You Need to Travel & Drive in Ireland

• Your passport must be valid for the whole of your stay in Ireland (UK citizens do not need a passport to visit Ireland but its best to carry one anyway).
• You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle. Update August 2021 – you no longer require a green card to prove you have vehicle insurance cover when travelling in Europe.
• Your UK licence allows you to drive in all EU countries. If you only have a paper driving licence or a licence issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man then you will need an  International Driving Permit .
• Breakdown cover documentation (not compulsory).
• Vehicle V5 logbook (which must show your correct address).
• Personal travel and medical insurance (we recommend  True Traveller ), EHIC or  GHIC  card (not compulsory).
• Animal Health Certificate  if you’re travelling with a pet to Ireland or Northern Ireland.

Vehicle Safety Equipment for Ireland

Unlike many other European countries, it is not compulsory to carry any vehicle equipment in Ireland, but this is what we think you need;

• Warning triangle.
• Reflective jacket.
• Spare wheel and the tools to change a wheel, or a tyre repair kit.
• First aid kit.
• Spare bulbs and fuses.
• Fire extinguisher.
• From 28th September 2021, you will have to display a UK sticker on the rear of of your vehicle, instead of a GB sticker, unless you have a new style UK numberplate which displays the Union Jack flag.

Driving a Motorhome in Ireland Tips

• Ireland is like the UK and drives on the left.
• In some rural areas, roads are too narrow for motorhomes to use them safely, although smaller camper vans may be ok. Often there are no passing places. Check your intended route and always abide by signage.
• When driving in the countryside, expect slow moving agricultural vehicles and animals like sheep and cows being herded along roads. Follow the Irish way and take it slowly – this is not a country in a hurry!
• The UK Department for Transport advises that A-frames are not legal for use by UK motorhomers abroad. In practice, this could mean towing your car while it’s fixed to a trailer, although there is ambiguity around this and differing advice can be found on the internet.
• Campervans or motorhomes and cars with caravans or trailers are not allowed to exceed 18.75m in total length, 4m in height and 2.55m in width.
• Loads must not exceed 10.5 tonnes at the driving axle and 10 tonnes at a single axle.
• You must not carry or use a radar detector and if caught you could be fined and the device confiscated by the Garda.
• There are no low emission zones in Ireland.  
• Dublin is the only Irish city with an Urban Access Scheme in place, however it only applies to vehicles with more than five axles – if that’s you, find out more here . And kudos, that’s one big motorhome!
• The Garda can issue fixed penalty notices, in person or attached to your windscreen, which you will have to pay within 28 days or choose to go to court. Fines not paid within 28 days increase by 50%.
• The legal limit is 50 milligrams of alcohol per 100millilitres of blood, lower than the UK’s 80mgs. Random breath testing is in force throughout Ireland, with severe penalties including fines, imprisonment and disqualification for drink drivers.
• If you have an accident you’ll need to complete the  EU Accident Statement , which you can find here to download if your insurer hasn’t provided one. Stop safely and use your hazard lights and warning triangle to alert other drivers. Exchange details and take lots of photos to add to your form when you submit it to the insurers. If the other party won’t give details or there has been an injury, you should call the Garda on 112.

Toll Roads in Ireland

There are eleven motorways in Ireland with tolls.

Some toll stations don’t take credit cards and the M50 is electronic, requiring you to pay online if you don’t have an electronic toll tag.

Make sure you’ve got some euroes in change or invest in an e-Toll electronic tag that attaches to your vehicle and pays all required tolls.

There are no toll roads in Northern Ireland.

Thanks to e-toll.ie for the Ireland toll roads map.

RELATED POST: Tolls for Heavy Motorhomes >3.5T in Europe: Country by Country Guide

Parking in Ireland

As well as following any restrictions signposted locally, drivers in Ireland should also note that parking is prohibited in the following places;

• Within nine metres of a road junction.
• Within the same distance on the approach side of a pedestrian crossing or pedestrian lights.
• At a bus stop with road markings.
• On the pavement if this affects the movement of pedestrians.
• On cycle tracks.
• On yellow lines.
• When parking at night, vehicles may be parked without lights in situations where street lighting ensures they can be clearly seen by traffic.

Fuel in Ireland

Fuel prices in Ireland are similar to those in France – slightly less than the UK, but a lot more than Spain!

There are plenty of filling stations located across the country that sell petrol, diesel and LPG, although in rural areas in the west of the country there are fewer.

Recommended Reading

Motorhome Wild Camping – Your Complete Guide

Europe Road Trip – 24 Incredible Routes

Motorhome service points in ireland.

There are very few motorhome service areas in Ireland. Use an app like Park4Night to identify aires with services, or stay in a campsite every few nights.

Many campsites will also let you fill up with fresh water, dispose of grey waste and empty your toilet cassette if you pay a small fee.

LPG & Bottled Gas

There are around 50 garages in Ireland where you can fill LPG from the pump. Use the myLPG app to identify one close to you, and check on the prices.

If you have a refillable system like Gaslow or Gasit, the ACME adaptor used for Germany, Belgium and Austria is the one you need for Ireland.

Calor Gas is Ireland’s leading supplier of bottled propane and butane gas. Irish gas bottles are not interchangeable with UK bottles, but you may find some suppliers selling both Irish and UK bottles, especially close to the border.

You’ll also need a different regulator. If you carry a selection around, you’ll find a Spanish one does the job!

Motorhome Stops in Ireland

Aires in ireland.

If you’re used to motorhoming in France , Spain or Germany , motorhome aires de camping are a common part of life.

In Ireland, there are only a handful of what you might recognise as motorhome aires, but they don’t really work in the same way as they do on the continent.

Sometimes they’re free, other times you need to pay your euros to the butchers shop round the corner, or the pub along the High Street.

A few of these have purpose-built motorhome services, but many are a bit ad hoc. Expect to pay around €5-10 per night.

Wild Camping in Ireland for Motorhomes

Is it legal to wild camp in in Ireland? Wild camping is not legal in Ireland, in the same way it isn’t in the UK. However, with a population of just 6.6 million (a tenth of the UK population) living on a land mass a third of the size of the whole of the UK, the Emerald Isle is very sparsely populated.

This means there are lots and lots of wide open spaces where you can find camping spots and wild camp discreetly without bothering anyone. In our experience, the people of Ireland really don’t mind motorhomes and campervans wild camping.

If you do see a sign or local by-law forbidding it, then move on. Likewise, if there is an obvious landowner whose permission you need to ask, then do so.

As always, follow our motorhome wild camping top tips and rules to stay safe and leave no trace wherever you stay.

Safe Nights Ireland Motorhome Parking

Safe Nights Ireland is an initiative which provides access to overnight motorhome parking across the country, at over 350 locations.

The locations are not campsites, but safe off the road places where you can stay. From country houses, open farms and national parks to pub locations, you’ll get a warm welcome and a safe haven for the night. Some provide services, but make sure to plan ahead where they don’t.

It costs €15 to join the club, and get access to their online database of campervan stopovers. If you hire a campervan with Bunk Camping , they even throw club membership in for free!

Total Motorhome Ireland

Total Motorhome Ireland is a great resource to find pub overnight stopovers, campsites and services in Ireland, which is free to use.

Motorhome Parking Ireland

A paid for app especially for Ireland, Motorhome Parking Ireland is where you can find pubs, restaurants, farms, free campervan parking and many other places where you’re welcome to spend the night in a van.

Motorhome Campsites in Ireland

Campsites in Ireland for motorhomes  tend to be small and intimate. Many take CampingCard ACSI , meaning you can save over 60% at campsites out of season, a must for motorhoming in Ireland.

Members of UK motorhome clubs can also book sites across the island of Ireland. Those living in Ireland and Northern Ireland may be able to join the Irish Motorhome Club and book sites with them.

Campsite facilities are usually good, often with 13 amps of electric and good wifi across the site. Expect camping spots in Ireland to be very similar to those in the UK.

Life in Ireland

The pace of life is slower in this beautiful country. Visit the cities though, and expect things to be a bit more lively – Ireland is becoming a cosmopolitan country to be reckoned with.

Lots of people ask us about safety, especially in Northern Ireland. After years of visiting with Phil (I’m a Brit), I can honestly say I have never felt unsafe.

There are certain things that maybe highlight the recent history of both countries, such as flags being flown, police stations behind high fencing, paving painted in either nationalist or republican colours, and of course the distinctive and famous murals on buildings in Belfast and Derry-Londonderry.

Many of the latter can be visited as part of a tour of those cities, and if you get the opportunity, you should definitely do that.

For me, the hospitality I have always been shown, the friendliness of the people and yes, the craic, make the island of Ireland one of my favourite places in the whole world.

If you get a chance when you’re camping somewhere rural, head to the nearest pub, where the local community will show you a good time. With impromptu Irish music, a pint of Guinness and maybe a traditional dinner of bacon and colcannon (mash with cabbage), you’ll feel right at home in no time!

Top Irish Motorhome Destinations

The capital of Ireland, Dublin is a city with a huge reputation which has managed to retain the quaint and lively charm that you will find throughout the country.

Dublin has a complex history full of Vikings, famines and wars, and much of the city still has an historic feel, with streets of cobblestone, castles and ancient churches.

Don’t miss the more modern attractions of the Guinness Storehouse and Temple Bar, which really comes alive at night. Even if you only have a short time in Dublin , it is absolutely worth visiting.

Stay at Camac Valley Camping and Caravanning Park . There is a bus stop at the main entrance, from there it’s a ten minute ride to the nearest tram into the city.

RELATED POST – One Day in Dublin – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

The Wild Atlantic Way

From County Donegal to County Cork, and passing through counties Leitrim, Sligo, Mayo, Galway, Clare, Limerick and Kerry, the Wild Atlantic Way winds down the intricate west coast of Ireland and the edge of Europe.

This epic Ireland road trip takes in many of Ireland’s must sees and dos .

Be in awe of dramatic Malin Head on Donegal’s Inishowen Peninsula, and the contrasting sand dunes which you can see as you approach from the coastal road around Lag.

Visit Dunmore Head, Ireland’s most westerly point on the Dingle Peninsula, where the waves crash and the clouds race. Whilst you’re there, check out Slea Head , the drive to which is spectacular.

Marvel at the UNESCO Killarney National Park and then explore the spectacular Ring of Kerry route before hopping over to Skelling Michael, which along with Little Skelling and Lemon Rock (a Harry Potter filming location), make up the Skellings.

The mighty Cliffs of Moher have to be visited. One of Ireland’s most famous sights, the cliffs tower over the County Clare coast and have been inspiring creatives and geologists alike for centuries.

The Beara Peninsula in Munster is a great place for hiking, with incredible views of the surroundings rugged landscapes and wild seas for the two mountains ranges which run down the peninsula’s spine.

This motorhome trip on the west coast of Ireland is best done with time on your side. Two weeks will give you a flavour, three weeks is just about enough, but four weeks or longer will give you time to explore and really get to know the country.

You’ll find loads of wild camping opportunities on the route, as well as cliff-top campsites and stunning off the beaten path beach-side locations where you can stay and enjoy the view.

RELATED POST – Wild Atlantic Way: Itinerary, Map & Tips

Ireland’s Ancient East

An attempt at repeating the success of camper van routes along the Wild Atlantic Way and the North Coast 500 in Scotland, Ireland’s Ancient East is a touring region rather than a road trip route, framed by the river Shannon to the west and Irish Sea to the east.

The Ancient East showcases 5,000 years of Irish history and national heritage across the soft green landscape of Wexford, Kilkenny, Wickford, Tipperary, Waterford and twelve other counties.

Where the Wild Atlantic Way is about raw nature and pounding seas, the Ancient East is where the myths and legends of the Emerald Isle come to life.

Revel in Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile Walk and follow the footsteps of the Vikings through the narrow streets and medieval treasures of Waterford, one of Ireland’s best cities to visit.

Visit Blarney Castle and kiss the Blarney Stone (maybe wear a mask?) and take a moment on top of the mystical Hill of Tara in Meath, dwelling place of the gods. Marvel at the Rock of Cashel in Tipperary, one of Ireland’s most spectacular, and visited, attractions.

You’ll find plenty of places to stay in the eastern counties of Ireland, including some cracking pub stops, free motorhome parking spots and great campsites.

RELATED POST – Beautiful Ireland: 22 Most Scenic Places To Visit

Top Northern Ireland Motorhome Destinations

Causeway coastal route.

The wild and unspoiled Antrim Coast in Northern Ireland is  made  for a motorhome road trip . Peppered with fascinating places to see and exciting things to do, this route will appeal to outdoor adventurers.

If you are a Game of Thrones fan, there are lots of places along this route which featured in the show, including the Dark Hedges and the tiny harbour at Ballintoy (but don’t attempt either of them in a motorhome!).

Other attractions include the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, Bushmill’s Distillery and of course, the magnificent Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland’s first UNESCO site.

The walled city of Derry-Londonderry, one of the finest examples of a walled city in Europe and the only remaining completely walled city in Ireland, starts, or ends, the Causeway Coastal Route. The walls, which are around 1.5km in circumference, form a walkway around the inner city and provide a unique promenade to view the layout of the original town.

Belfast is the bookend to the south, over the beautiful and desolate Sperrin Mountains. Don’t miss the fantastic Titanic Quarter, historic Crumlin Road Gaol and the buzzing nightlife of the Cathedral Quarter.

All along this route you’ll find lots of campsites, motorhome overnight parking and pub motorhome stopovers, all sharing the typical warm Irish hospitality the island is known for.

RELATED POST – Causeway Coastal Route: The Best Road Trip In Ireland?

Resources for Motorhome Travel in Ireland

• Best for motorhome rental and campervan hire in UK >> Spaceship Rentals
• Best for Ireland campervan and motorhome hire >> Bunk Campers
• Best for campsites & camping in Ireland >> ACSI Eurocampings
• Best motorhome route planner Ireland >>  Mappy
• Best for ferries from UK and Ireland >> Direct Ferries
• Best for travel insurance >> True Traveller

Are you looking for more motorhome touring guides? Check out these top posts…

Motorhoming in France: Your Complete Touring Guide for 2024

Motorhoming in Germany: Your Complete Touring Guide for 2024

Motorhoming in Italy: Your Complete 2024 Guide

Motorhoming in Spain: Your Complete Guide for 2024

Campervanning in Portugal: Complete Guide for 2024

Campervanning in Norway – Tips, Routes & Destinations 2024

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Best Campervan Rentals in Ireland (+Expert Tips!)

Home » Blog » Campervan » Campervan Rentals » Best Campervan Rentals in Ireland (+Expert Tips!)

Few things rival a campervan trip around the rolling green hills and rugged sea cliffs of Ireland. If you’re struggling to narrow down which rental company to choose, don’t worry – we got you! We’ve rounded up the best campervan rentals in Ireland to help you plan an unforgettable road trip around the Emerald Isle.

If you’re considering a campervan rental in Ireland, I want to be the first one to give you a big ol’ high five and tell you wholeheartedly that you are about to embark on the adventure of a lifetime!

If this is your first time on our website ( welcome! ), there’s something you should know about us… we are absolutely obsessed with traveling by campervan ! We’ve done it in 6 countries and counting! 

We had the best time experiencing Ireland from a home on four wheels. And I think you will have an absolute blast, too.

But hold up! Don’t go and book any campervan or motorhome you can find just yet… 

We have traveled all over the world in campervans, so we have some expert advice that’ll be essential as you begin planning your trip. 

In this article, we’ll go over exactly how to choose the best campervan rental in Ireland for your budget and travel style (because what was best for us might not be best for you!). 

We’re also sharing some tips that have come in really handy over the years, essential items to pack, and mistakes we’ve made, all so that you have the very best experience. 

In the end, we want you to fall in love with vanlife too!

Guide to renting a campervan in Ireland

Here’s what we cover in this guide. Click on any of the links below to jump down to that section, or keep scrolling to get all the juicy details.

• Why trust us?
• Our experience
• Top campervan rental recommendation

How to book a campervan rental in Ireland

• Best campervan rentals in Ireland

Why hire a campervan or RV in Ireland?

• When to make your booking
• Things to consider when choosing a vehicle
• How much does a campervan rental cost?

Ireland campervan rental FAQs

• Campervan insurance

What to pack for a campervan trip

• Campervan with a baby

Where to stay in your campervan

• Ireland camping resources

Want to save time and energy on planning?

In June 2023, we spent 2 weeks traveling around Ireland and living in a campervan. We were lucky enough to explore a lot of what this country has to offer!

We took our 2-week travels and are in the process of creating the perfect Ireland road trip itinerary.  We’ll send you our complete 2-week itinerary, filled with tips and advice, once it’s finalized! Just click below to get on the waitlist for our  2-week Ireland road trip itinerary !

Why you can trust us about campervan rentals

If you’re new to this blog (welcome!), we want to share a few reasons why you can trust us about all things campervan-related:

• We have personally built 3 campervans from scratch .
• We have traveled all over the US in our own campervans.
• We have rented vans all over the world, in New Zealand , Iceland , Scotland , and Ireland .

Now do you understand why I said we’re obsessed!?

I mention all of this to let you know we have a lot of personal experience on this subject. We truly know what we’re talking about and in this article we’re sharing our expertise with you.

Also, we simply love connecting with others who are interested in RV and campervan adventures, so let’s be friends !

Quick English language note: We use the words “rental and “hire” interchangeably in this article.

Our personal experience renting a campervan in Ireland 

We personally rented a campervan in Ireland and had such an incredible time. 

We feel like a campervan or motorhome really gives you an added level of freedom that you just don’t have when you’re staying in a hotel or Airbnb, and we highly recommend it.

Since we’ve personally explored Ireland in a camper ourselves, you can trust that we know what we’re talking about in this article and are sharing tips that will truly help you plan your own trip. 

Here is our rental camper tour in Ireland so you can know what to expect for yourself:

Our top campervan rental recommendation

If you just want to skip to our overall recommendation, here it is:

We’d recommend using Motorhome Republic to compare all rental options for your dates. 

Spoiler Alert: Our 2 top picks for companies are Causeway Campers and Bunk Campers (and we have personal experience renting with each of them!).

We’d highly recommend you continue reading this guide as it is packed with insider tips on what to look for when choosing your vehicle, mistakes to avoid, and some other companies we’d recommend if you have a different budget or travel needs.

Trying to figure out which company to rent a campervan through can be a daunting task. 

We’ve done it 4 times now, so we know how overwhelming it can be the first time.

Our go-to place to find the best campervan rentals in a particular destination is Motorhome Republic . This is an aggregate (kind of like what Booking.com is for hotels or what Discover Cars is for car rentals) that rounds up all the options in one place so you can easily compare them . 

We really like using their filters because you can input the number of travelers, and other important features like “automatic transmission” and amenities like a toilet or shower. 

Additionally, you can choose to display options within a price range or filter by highest reviews, making it a really handy and user-friendly tool.

Best campervan rental companies in Ireland

Okay, so you’ve got Motorhome Republic pulled up for your dates and you can see all your options… but how do you even begin to choose between the different companies?

Being that we’ve personally rented campervans all around the world (and have built 3 of our own!), we feel like we have a really good handle on what to look for. 

The following companies have been hand-picked by us , and we think each can be a good choice depending on what it is you’re looking for.

Campervan rental companies in Ireland

Causeway campers, bunk campers, black sheep, anywhere campers.

We’ve scoured reviews, compared specs, and analyzed prices to bring you a comprehensive list of the best campervan rentals in Ireland so the decision is a little simpler for you.

We’re sharing what company we chose to rent with, but we’ll also highlight some other companies in case you think a different one would be a better fit for your personal needs or budget.

For each company, we’re sharing pros, cons, and price points (budget or mid-range) to make this big decision a breeze.

This is the company through which we personally rented our Ireland campervan.

• Price range: mid-range
• Recommended for: all types of travelers
• They claim there are 8 pick-up locations in Ireland, but contact them if this is of interest to you. We wanted to do this, but Dublin was the only location available during our travel dates.
• Check availability here

Causeway Campers is a small company based in Northern Ireland and has 9 different styles of vans and motorhomes , making it a good choice for basically every type of traveler. 

We personally chose to rent with Causeway Campers for a few reasons. They had availability when some of the other companies did not. Also, their prices and layouts were great, and we like the idea of supporting a small, local company when possible. 

Overall, we had a great experience with them and would recommend booking with them . The following lists share some more specifics on the things we loved and the things that could be improved.

• Variety of vehicles to suit all needs and budgets – from compact campervans to large motorhomes.
• Really nice layout options, with the ability to sleep multiple people . We had an especially good layout for our family (we were traveling with our daughter, who was 1.5 years old at the time).
• The vehicles are well-maintained and the kitchen was fully-equipped (much better than any other campervan rental we’ve personally had).
• The staff member assured us that any minor scratches (like those you get from driving past a hedge or going under a tree branch) wouldn’t be counted as damages . It was nice knowing they weren’t super nit-picky about this as many of the roads in Ireland are very narrow, which makes it a bit difficult in a large vehicle.
• Prices are competitive .
• Amazing window covers (even when the sun set at nearly 10 p.m. every night).
• They have pet-friendly vehicles (€11.55 daily additional fee).

Cons: 

• They do not have an established building where you pick up the vehicle. Instead, you will meet a staff member in the parking lot at the airport to collect your vehicle and have a brief orientation. (It wasn’t an issue for us, but it’s worth pointing out.)
• Bedding and towels are not included in the rental price, and they are an additional cost.
• Not as “hands on” (i.e. travel recommendations, website with resources, etc.) as some of the other companies we’ve rented with around the world. 

• Recommended for:  all types of travelers
• Pick-up/drop-off locations: Dublin & Belfast

In business since 2007, Bunk Campers is based out of the UK and Ireland (yay for supporting local business!). They have a variety of sizes, prices, and types of vehicles, making them a great choice for most travelers. 

With more than 15 years of experience, Bunk Campers are well-established and have smooth systems in place. They know what people need in their vans and the kind of support and customer service that will make your road trip perfect.

Personal note: We rented with Bunk Campers in Scotland and had a great experience, but we wanted to try another company in Ireland in the name of research so we could report back. We’d definitely recommend Bunk Campers as another option as you are searching for the perfect rental for your needs.

• TONS of storage and fully-stocked vehicles with everything you could possibly need for a road trip, like kitchen supplies, camp chairs, and linens.
• Variety of layouts , from a 2-berth van to a 6-person motorhome.
• They are working toward a greener fleet with a handful of initiatives, including fuel-efficient engines (all vehicles are under 3 years old) and an environmentally-friendly fluid for their toilets.
• You can check your water levels at a glance with a meter that tells you what level your freshwater and gray water tanks are at (similar to the gas tank meter on your dash). Now we want this in our own campervan!
• Super effective heating system that you can adjust to the degree.
• Convenient accordion-style window covers.
• Our vehicle was bigger than we would have preferred to drive on the narrow roads of Scotland, but this is more a con of the vehicle we chose (Aero Plus) than the company itself.
• There was only one USB outlet in the back of the camper . It was near the bench seat area, so we couldn’t easily charge our phones at night. We recommend bringing this super handy power bank .
• In both Iceland and New Zealand, there was a large space at the rental shop where people could leave unused or leftover food items. We were a bit bummed that Bunk Campers didn’t have a food exchange , especially as a company promoting green initiatives.

• Recommended for:  spontaneous travelers
• Pick-up/drop-off locations: Dublin & Limerick

One of the largest campervan and motorhome rentals in all of Europe with hubs in 17 countries. They have vehicles ranging from pop-up vans to large, fully-integrated motorhomes. 

This would most likely have been our second choice for a campervan rental when we went to Scotland, as they have a large selection of layouts and availability for last-minute offers.

• They sometimes offer exclusive deals for last-minute bookings , though vehicle selection may be limited.
• The hiring fee includes an awning, bike rack, gas bottles, balancing wedges, water hose, and cable.
• Vehicles are guaranteed to be no older than three years and include a bathroom with sink, shower and toilet, heating, and cooking facilities.
• Manual transmission only , so ya gotta be able to drive a stick.
• Dish sets and bedding are not included in the rental fee and cost extra.
• One-way booking is not available, so you have to begin and end your road trip at the same station (this is honestly the case with most campervan rental companies).

• Recommended for:  families
• Pick-up/drop-off locations: Dublin

Black Sheep offers converted vans in 41 locations throughout Europe. Their vans range in capacity from 2-6 seats and 2-5 beds, making them perfect for families with 2-3 children.

• They provide an optional kitchen kit at no extra cost with dishes, cutlery, a coffee maker (essential!), and even garbage bags. We love that this is optional, so if you already have your own dishes, you don’t need their kit taking up space as well.
• Free cancellation for any reason up to 48 hours before your booking date.
• If you have your own vehicle, you can rent a rooftop tent for a much lower cost.
• To rent a smaller van, you must be at least 21 years old and have had a driver’s license for at least 2 years (25 years old and licensed for 3 years for a larger van).
• You have to bring your own bedding or sleeping bags. The only bedding they have available to rent (€15 / $16.85 USD) is a disposable sheet set .
• Their website is pretty clunky and not the easiest to use (but you can easily book through Motorhome Republic!).

Apollo Motorhome Holidays originated in Australia in 1985 and has since expanded to New Zealand, North America, and Europe.

They operate year-round, offering a variety of vehicles all fitted with on-board heating. Their rentals range from compact campervans to 6-person motorhomes.

• Competitive rates and special offers throughout the year.
• Convenient location less than 2 km (~1.2 miles) from the Dublin airport.
• Modern vehicles no more than 2 years old.
• Manual transmission only.
• You may be able to hire for less than the minimum rental time, but you’ll still have to pay the full amount for the minimum hire period.
• The depot is only open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Saturday, so you need to time your pickup and drop-off accordingly.

• Recommended for:  couples or smaller families
• Pick-up/drop-off locations:  it’s in the name – Anywhere!

Flexible one-way rental service with a fleet of 50+ motorhomes across 35 countries.

Anywhere Campers’ big selling point is that you can pick up anywhere, anytime . From their website: “Whether it’s an early morning at an airport in Paris, or a dock in Oslo at midnight, we’ll be there.” How cool is that?!

And when your trip is over, you don’t need to drop off at a depot – Anywhere Campers will come to you. 

• Flexible pickup and drop-off .
• Manual and automatic transmission available.
• All-inclusive rental price includes a fully-equipped kitchen and bedroom, as well as extra amenities like a BBQ grill, camping furniture, and 2 bicycles.
• Responsive customer service and roadside assistance.
• Not a huge selection of vehicles , though they do offer both vans and motorhomes.
• You need a debit or credit card that allows online payments. Probably not an issue for most, but good to know.
• Their motorhomes have a max capacity of 5 adults , but they recommend traveling with fewer than that for the sake of comfort.

Northern Ireland

2021 M.A.N MAN TGE Campervan Conversion

22-foot campervan with seating and beds for up to 5 people. Equipped with a sink, 2 burners, coolbox, shower with full hot water heating system , bike carrier, and roof rack. Rental includes plates, bowls, cutlery, cooking pots, tea towels, and a garbage bag.

2021 Volkswagen Crafter

20-foot campervan with seating and beds for up to 4 people. Equipped with a small sink, 2 burners, extendable worktop area, and a good size fridge, as well as an onboard toilet , shower, hand wash basin, and backup camera for easy parking.

2022 Mercedes Sprinter 316 CDI LWB

23-foot manual transmission campervan with seating and beds for up to 4 people. Equipped with a toilet, hot shower , bike & roof racks, and large battery that will let you go off grid for days at a time. Rental includes BBQ & fire pit, Yeti cooler, and Egyptian cotton bedding.

Bonus: unlike many Outdoorsy rentals, this host allows you to take their van to music festivals. Sign us up!

Still need a little convincing on the whole renting a campervan thing?

We get it. If you’ve never experienced traveling in a campervan, the idea of it can be a little daunting. Don’t worry though — we literally have all the resources you need to make your trip a success. 

First, let’s chat about why renting a campervan in Ireland is a good idea. Scratch that. An AMAZING idea.

a) You can save (a lot!) money.

Renting a campervan is like having a car, a hotel, and a kitchen all in one place . 

Sure, the total cost per day isn’t cheap, but consider what it would cost to book a hotel room, rent a car, and eat out for every meal.

Most likely, a campervan will save you quite a bit of money.

b) You have ultimate freedom.

With a campervan, you have more flexibility than if you are staying in hotels. 

Do you like a place? Stay longer. 

Want to move on more quickly? Go for it. 

Got a local tip and you want to switch up your route completely? Consider it done!

While having campground reservations is recommended at least a day or two in advance (more on that later), you have the ability to have a less rigid route. 

c) It is an epic adventure of a lifetime!

You’ll be telling your grandchildren about this adventure. 

’Nuff said. 

Psst! Before you hit the road, you’ll want to check out these helpful tips for driving in Ireland . 

When to book your campervan rental in Ireland 

If you’re planning to rent a campervan in Ireland, listen up because this is crucial… 

Book your vehicle as early as possible. (This applies to all companies on this list.)

There is a very limited supply of motorhomes and especially campervans on this island nation. During popular travel seasons (like summer), the best models get snagged up fast! 

Our personal experience

We actually had quite a difficult time finding a rental during our dates (late May – early June) because we didn’t follow our own advice and book as early as possible. Life was busy and we didn’t end up starting our search until 2 months before our flight. 

Thankfully, we were (just barely) able to find something! We did love our layout (a lot!); however, if we were to do it again, we would have booked a smaller vehicle. But by the time we were looking, all campervan-type models were reserved so we didn’t have many options to choose from.

We’d recommend making your reservation at least 4 months before your travel dates if it is during the summer months.

Where to pick up your campervan in Ireland

The most popular pick-up and drop-off location is Dublin , and this works well for most travelers doing a loop around the country.

Some companies also offer pick-up/drop-off in other locations, such as Belfast.

What types of campervans or RVs are available?

There is a huge variety to choose from. 

We’ve listed a handful of different types below, but if you’re still confused, hop down to the next section where we’ve broken down some of the major things to consider that’ll make your decision easier.

• Low-roof converted minivan: ideal for budget-minded adventurers
• Pop-up campervan: iconic old-school campervan style
• High-roof campervan: spacious while still easy to drive and park
• Mini-motorhome: home on wheels, perfect for a young family
• Large motorhome: pile in the kids, bikes, and dog for a full-on family road trip

Things to think about when choosing a rental vehicle

Consider your answers to the following questions, as they will help you narrow down the best campervan rental for your personal needs.

How many people are you traveling with?

And how comfortable are you with driving a large rig? 

If you have an RV at home, perhaps driving a motorhome will be no big deal for you. However, if this is your first time in a larger vehicle, a campervan will be an easier transition for you. 

In short, our advice is to get the smallest possible size you think will work for your group. Trust us, many of the roads in Ireland are narrow, and you’ll be happier with a smaller vehicle.

What is your budget? 

The answer to this question might help you narrow down your rental choices, so it should be one of the first things you really dive into. 

In general, a campervan will be cheaper than an RV, and a low-roof vehicle will be cheaper than a high-roof vehicle.

Psst! If you’re curious about how much a campervan rental in Ireland costs, we have a whole section about that. Jump there now .

Do you want a high-roof vehicle?

Think about this one for a minute: Do you need to be able to stand up inside your campervan? 

This will help make getting dressed, cooking and just hanging out more comfortable (especially if your’re tall, like Ben). But it will mean you’ll likely be in a higher price bracket. 

If a low roof isn’t a deal-breaker, you can probably save quite a bit of money. 

Our personal opinion: We’ve had lots of experience in both low-roof and high-roof vehicles. When we were on a budget, it was a great way for us to save money, especially when we were traveling in places where we spent a lot of time outside. However, once we spent more time in a high-roof van (and now that we travel with a child!), I don’t know if we could go back to a low roof. It’s honestly just so much more comfortable being able to stand up!

How luxurious of a set-up do you need?

From super basic to extra bougie, there are all types of campervan and RV rentals. Determining your budget is the first step, as this will help you narrow down your options. 

From there, think about your personal preferences: Are you used to roughing it? Do you have a lot of camping experience? Or will splurging for a more posh vehicle be worth every penny to you? 

Keep your answers in mind as you’re sifting through your rental options.

Can you drive a manual transmission?

In Ireland, many vehicles have manual transmissions , so if you’re able to drive a stick shift, you will have more options to choose from.

If you can only drive automatic transmission or know you’ll just feel a lot more comfortable (no shame there!), don’t worry; there are options for you! Just know you will have a smaller selection and you will likely be paying a bit more money overall.

How much does an Ireland campervan hire cost?

Campervan rentals will vary drastically, depending on the following factors: 

• which company you choose
• type of vehicle
• time of year
• manual vs. automatic transmission
• how far in advance you make your reservation

To give you a general price range:

• This is roughly $265 per day
• This is roughly $170 per day

While this might sound like a lot, remember that this is both your transportation and accommodation . For most travelers, this will be cheaper than renting a car and staying in hotels.

Other costs to consider

In addition to paying the nightly rental fee, you won’t want to forget these other things:

• Additional rental add-ons: make sure you understand what is included with your company and what is an extra fee, as many companies charge for things like bedding/towels, cookware, pets, etc.
• Campground fees: average €30-35 (~$33-39 USD) per night
• Insurance: ranges from €17-35 (~$33-39 USD) per day, depending on your coverage
• Gas: we averaged about €22.55 (~$25 USD) per day

Top 7 places to visit on your Ireland road trip

You could easily spend months getting lost in the Irish countryside, falling in love with the magic of this place. But if you’re looking for a list of the very best places to put on your Ireland itinerary, we’ve got you covered. 

We chose these places specifically because they are ideal for visiting in a campervan or RV. Use this list to start planning your perfect Ireland road trip route!

Good to know: You might notice that we purposely left cities off this list. That’s because cities are not as fun to navigate with a large vehicle and finding parking can be a pain. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t add them in, but we’d highly recommend focusing your route around the places below. (We say this from personal experience!)

1. Ring of Kerry

This is a popular loop for tour buses, so I was fully prepared to get annoyed with crowds, but I was pleasantly surprised. 

There are must-sees, like the Kerry Cliffs, as well as some hidden gems along this route that make the experience even better. We lay out the perfect route and our favorite stops, along with tons of insider tips in our Ring of Kerry guide .

Ring of Kerry: Hidden Gems & Perfect Route

The iconic Ring of Kerry follows winding roads past charming villages, pristine lakes, rugged coastline, and mountain vistas in southwestern Ireland.  This guide lists the best stops to make along this route for the perfect Ring of Kerry itinerary .

2. Dingle Peninsula

Perhaps the most beautiful scenery in all of Ireland, the winding coastal roads of Dingle Peninsula are flanked by towering mountains, dramatic cliffs, and expansive sandy beaches.

The area is also rich in ancient history with prehistoric sites and medieval ruins.

3. Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park is a rugged wilderness of ancient forests and world-famous lakes that lie at the foot of MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, Ireland’s highest mountain range. It’s home to the last surviving herd of indigenous red deer in Ireland, as well as a number of heritage sites.

4. Cliffs around Ireland

I’m sure you’ve heard of the world-famous Cliffs of Moher . Well, I have an unpopular opinion to share: the Cliffs of Moher were not our fave. 

On our Ireland campervan trip, we visited the Kerry Cliffs, Kilkee Cliffs , and Slieve League , and to be honest, we liked all of them better.

I’m not saying don’t go to the Cliffs of Moher, just that there are other sea cliffs in Ireland that offer just-as-beautiful views with WAY less crowds.

5. County Donegal

County Donegal is home to some stunning natural beauties, such as Slieve League and Glenveagh National Park.

Towering 598 meters (about 1962 feet) over the Atlantic Ocean, the cliffs at Slieve League are some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, nearly 3 times higher than the way-more-famous (and way more crowded!) Cliffs of Moher. 

Spread over more than 110 square miles, Glenveagh National Park is a breathtaking wilderness of dramatic mountain peaks, mirror-like lakes, and vast heather-covered moorlands.

6. Wicklow Mountains National Park

Just a short drive from Dublin, Wicklow Mountains National Park is a picturesque haven known as “the Garden of Ireland”.

Lush green valleys, rolling hills, pristine lakes, and majestic peaks offer a tranquil escape and a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

Meandering trails wind through heather-covered moors, ancient forests, and hidden glens where you can discover mirror-like lakes and cascading waterfalls.

The park is also home to historical and cultural treasures, such as the iconic Glendalough Monastic Site.

7. Connemara National Park

The untouched nature of Connemara National Park includes sweeping boglands, majestic mountains, windswept coastlines, and several peaks of the famous Twelve Bens mountain range.

I get it — there is a lot to think about when it comes to renting a campervan in Ireland. 

Let’s go over some common questions and see if we can get them answered!

How expensive is gas/diesel in Ireland?

Well, it ain’t cheap! 

Most larger vehicles in Europe, like campervans, take diesel instead of gas (or petrol). The good news is that diesel is slightly cheaper than gas/petrol in Europe.

However, diesel prices still fluctuate, so it’s hard to put a number here, but we filled up our nearly empty tank a couple of times and each fill up was around €60-70 ($65-77 USD). 

( Note: Time of travel was June 2023 and diesel prices were about €1.47 per liter)

If budget is important for you, be sure to factor the cost of diesel as well as campground fees into the cost of your campervan rental.

Insider Tip: Be sure you know whether your vehicle is gas or diesel and fill up at the proper pump at the gas station. Otherwise, your engine will be in big trouble. 

Do I need an international driver’s license to rent a campervan in Ireland?

Most likely, no.

Unless your home country’s license is in a non-Roman language (Japanese, Russian, etc.), you will not need an international driver’s license. 

Can I bring a child on a campervan trip?

Absolutely. We did! 

In fact, we’d say it’s a great way to travel with a baby or older children.

You will need to select a vehicle that has enough seating for your family, as well as proper, safe seating for your child’s age/size. And you will need to think about what you will do about a sleeping space. (We have tips on that!)

Which is better: Campervan or RV?

The answer to this is truly a matter of personal preference, but here’s our opinion:

If you’re traveling solo or as a couple, we’d absolutely recommend a campervan so you can keep the size to a minimum. However, if you’re traveling with a small family, a campervan may be too small to fit you all comfortably, so a small motorhome might be a better option.

Should I rent a campervan if I’m just visiting Dublin and Galway?

We’d only recommend renting a campervan if you’re able to do a bit of a road trip in the country. Trust us when we say the worst part of renting a campervan is driving in big cities . Plus, trying to find parking is no fun. 

If you’re just exploring the major cities in Ireland, opt instead to stay in an Airbnb or hotel and use public transport or Uber/taxis to get around.

How difficult is it to drive a campervan in Ireland?

This is a very subjective question. Everyone is going to have a different comfort level with this. 

But I will say that even with lots of experience driving around the world, driving in Ireland has some unique challenges. 

Here are a few things to consider:

• The roads in many places are very narrow , making a large vehicle feel a bit bulky. This is why we’d recommend choosing the smallest vehicle possible for your needs. 
• Many vehicles are manual transmission. If you’re not comfortable driving stick shift, be sure to use the filters on Motorhome Republic to only show vehicles with automatic transmission. 
• If you are from North America (or somewhere else where you drive on the right-hand side of the road), you will need to get used to driving on the opposite side of the road , which definitely adds another dimension to the experience. 

We won’t sugarcoat it – this can be kind of a trifecta of challenges. But if that doesn’t scare you away, you are in for an incredible trip that is worth every ounce of minor anxiety (in our opinion).

Insurance for your campervan trip

Insurance is always one of those tricky topics to write about because it widely varies from person to person depending on the amount of risk you are willing to take. 

Even though we always get travel insurance and have pretty great credit card coverage, neither of those typically cover campervan or motorhome rentals. So be sure to read the fine print of your policies because it likely only covers 4-door sedans.

The company we rented through, Causeway Campers, offered two versions of insurance: 

Standard Insurance (called “European insurance”): Offers typical coverages you’d expect from a rental company. This costs €17.34 per day (~$19.29 USD).

Glass, side mirror & tire insurance: This covers damage to these parts of the vehicle and costs an additional €17.34 (~$19.29 USD) per day on top of the standard coverage. We opted to skip this one, but it’s up to you what you choose.

You can choose to select no coverage for your Ireland campervan rental, but be prepared to lay down a large security deposit of at least €1,734 (~$1,929 USD). 

What we did: For this trip, we purchased a very reasonable package from Safety Wing insurance , but we also opted to get the standard (European) coverage through our motorhome rental company.

Here are some items you really don’t want to forget:

• Aeropress : If you are a coffee drinker and your rental company doesn’t include a coffee maker (many don’t), definitely pack this!
• Rubber bands and/or chip clips : This is something that is often overlooked, but important to keep the food you buy sealed (think bags of granola, crackers, etc.).
• Spices and oil: When going on a campervan trip, we always like to bring our own spices so we don’t have to stock up. You can bring mini containers filled with your faves (we bring high-quality salt, pepper, cayenne, and any others that strike our fancy). We like this leak-proof container for storing coconut oil and this one for storing olive oil.
• Lightweight towel: If your campervan rental does not include towels in the rental price (many charge extra), bring your own! We like this microfiber one or this Turkish towel .
• Travel lumbar pillow : If you have a bad back (like Ben!), this would be clutch! He had some back issues during our trip, and was wishing we had packed his lumbar pillow. It’s way too bulky to fly with though, so I found this pillow for next time!
• Universal outlet adaptor : A basic travel item that everyone should have so you can plug in your devices anywhere. 
• Shower shoes : Trust me when I say you don’t want to go barefoot in some of the campground showers! 
• Travel slippers : The floors of your vehicle will inevitably get dirty, so it’s nice to have a lightweight pair of slippers to wear at night to prevent your feet from collecting all that dirt.

For more ideas, we have an article dedicated to all of the campervan essentials you might want to have on the road with you.

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Ireland !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Ireland trip. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

Packing for a baby on a campervan trip

This checklist has a whole section of all our baby-related items we love, but here are a few things we’d definitely recommend bringing if you are renting a campervan with a little one in tow.

• Travel high chair : We love this portable high chair and use it in our personal campervan at home. We also flew with it to Ireland and loved that our daughter had a seat in our Causeway Camper.
• Travel tent : This is the sleeping tent that we used on trips when our daughter was under a year old. It packs up super small and gave her a safe space to sleep.
• Inflatable bed bumpers : We’ve transitioned from the tent to these as our daughter has grown and they work really well to transform a normal bed into a safe sleeping space for our toddler.
• Your favorite baby foods: We found some baby-friendly foods while in Ireland, but the selection was more limited than I was expecting. If you have favorites (freeze dried strawberries from Trader Joe’s are one of our go-tos for travel!), we’d recommend prioritizing packing foods over diapers and wipes, as those will be easier to find anywhere.
• Travel sound machine : we don’t go anywhere without this!
• Tap light : This light is super handy at home or on travels.

Psst! Looking for more family travel tips? Check out our list of practical (& super encouraging!) tips for traveling with a baby .

You’ll be happy to know that there are tons of campgrounds all around Ireland.

We’ve created an Ireland camping guide so you have all the info you need right at your fingertips, including what to expect at caravan parks and a map of some of the best campsites in the country!

Wild Camping 

If you’re traveling on a tight budget and don’t want to pay for campgrounds every night, it’s worth mentioning that it is possible to wild camp (sometimes called dispersed camping ) in Ireland – a.k.a. park somewhere that is not an established campground.

But you can’t just park anywhere! We have a section on wild camping in Ireland so you know the ins and outs and are sure not to inadvertently break the law (yikes!) on your road trip! 

Ireland Camervan Resources

We’re creating lots of resources for travel in Ireland and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ireland Travel Homepage  for everything you need to know, or read some of our favorite articles below.

When to plan your Ireland campervan trip

Find out the best time to visit Ireland based on seasonal weather patterns and your personal travel style.

What to expect at campsites in Ireland

We created a guide so you know exactly what to expect from Ireland campgrounds (spoiler alert: it might be different than what you’re used to!). We’re also sharing the best campsites in Ireland so you have an incredible time.

Helpful tips for driving in Ireland

We thought long and hard about all the things we wished we would have known before we got behind the wheel, and put them together in one convenient place for you. 

Love the idea of campervan trips around the world? 

Us too – which is exactly why we keep booking campervan trips!

Here are some more ideas for you to bookmark for future travels:

• Scotland Campervan Rental Guide
• Iceland Campervan Rental Guide 
• New Zealand Campervan Rental Guide
• USA Campervan Rental Guide

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Hiring a campervan in ireland: everything you need to know.

If you are planning on travelling around Ireland this year, then I can tell you straight up …

Hiring a campervan in Ireland is the best way to go!

Sure, there are a few challenges involved in renting and driving a campervan or motorhome across Ireland, but in my opinion, the benefits far outweigh the downsides.

We had our Spaceships Rentals Delta campervan for 16 days and, in that time, managed to roadtrip ALL of Ireland

That's right, more than 3,000km covered around Ireland in what was our favourite roadtrip to date !

You can read more about our complete Ireland road trip itinerary, but I first recommend you keep reading to learn more about how to hire a campervan in Ireland and whether it really is best for you.

Want a quick quote? I recommend Spaceships Rentals ...

**We've just been informed that Spaceships have closed their Dublin office- It will take a while for us to update all our Ireland content with this change due to the volume of Ireland content we have on the website**

We still recommend hiring a campervan to see Ireland, for us it was the best way to explore everything the island has to offer! Bunk Campers currently has offices in Belfast and Dublin so may offer a good alternative for now and it's a similar price to Spaceships!

Travellerspoint

First up, why would you want to hire a campervan for your trip to Ireland?

Hiring a campervan and driving one around a country certainly isn’t for everyone. 

However, from our experience in Ireland it presents a LOT of awesome opportunities, such as these 5 ...

1. It allows you to see a lot more of the country

The problem with getting around Ireland by buses or transfers is that you miss out on so many of the “in-between” moments. 

For us, the bits in between the cities and towns , such as the rolling hills and epic mountains views, are a whole lot better than the towns themselves.

Sure, you can stare out of the window on a 4 or 5 hour bus journey, but how likely are you to actually do this?

I know for me, whenever I get on a bus, I soon started to feel sick and bored, so have to watch a movie, listen to something or try to sleep; all in order to distract myself.

When you have your own car, this is completely different as you are in control and completely engaged with your surroundings.

Read Also: Driving the Ring of Kerry

2. It gives you freedom and flexibility over stops

Better yet, you have complete flexibility over which roads you take and how frequently you stop.

Many of the best spots we found in Ireland came as a result of taking smaller country roads, as opposed to the bigger more-touristy routes.

Getting off the beaten track and into rural Ireland really is a treat, as is the chance to stop for as many photo opportunities as you want, away from the big built up crowds of people at rest points.

3. You have the option to change route on a whim

Personally, I love the flexibility of knowing that, though you are supposed to end up in one place one night, you could instead be somewhere completely different. 

You might decide to stop a few hours short because you find the perfect camp spot, or you might want to keep driving longer because you don’t feel tired yet and want to keep going .

4. You can get more done in less time

You also find that you can squeeze in more and get more done when you have your own camperva n, as opposed to being on a strict timetable with a tour company or stuck with certain bus timetables.

When you have your own wheels, you decide when to get going and when to stay for longer.

You don’t have to wait around for hours in a city when you don’t really want to be there any longer, and you don’t have to wait for everyone else to get back on the bus after stopping for pictures.

Read Also: Driving the Ring of Beara

5. It saves you money

Okay, this might raise a few eyebrows as there is a common misconception that campervan and motorhome rental in Ireland is the more expensive option .

Well, this isn’t actually the case!

Sure some vehicles can be quite pricey, especially larger motor homes and RVs. however we found that the rental costs were equal to, if not slightly lower, than what we would have otherwise spent on buses, trains, tours and accommodation.

Still not convinced? Well, keep reading ...

Read: Best campervan rentals in Ireland (For EVERY budget!)

How much does it actually cost to hire a campervan in Ireland?

Full disclaimer, our roadtrip around Ireland was in part collaboration with Spaceships Rentals .

We didn’t have to pay for the van for most of the trip, however, we did cover everything else ourselves, including food, insurance, fuel etc …

If you add on the full cost of the rental (assuming no part of our trip was free) then it cost us €1400 each for 16 days in Ireland.

This included:

• Flights from London to Dublin and back again
• Transport to and from Spaceships Rentals depot and Dublin airport
• Cost of the van for 16 days
• 16 days of no excess insurance cover (€23 per day)
• Eating & drinking out
• Stays in campsites
• Entrance to sites

Absolutely everything.

Which, at €87.50 each per day, I’m sure you will agree is pretty darn good!

Especially when Ireland isn’t the cheapest of countries.

In comparison, if you chose to get around Ireland by tour company, or through busses and paying for private accommodation, there’s a good chance you would have ended up paying more.

A stay for 2 people in a cheap hotel or Airbnb in Ireland averages at anywhere between €50 and €80 per night ; so that’s almost half your daily budget gone right there, before you’ve even got out of bed in the morning!

Even if you plan on backpacking around Ireland on a budget , you’re going to end up spending at least $50-$80USD (€45-€70) a day.

I’m not saying there's a humongous difference in price, but what I am saying is to ignore the common misconception that hiring a campervan in Ireland will be a lot more expensive than the alternative.

To see how much it would cost for you to road trip Ireland in a campervan, get a quick quote for Spaceships here .

**We've been informed that Spaceships have closed their Dublin office. You can still rent from London and get the ferry over if you wish!**

Or check out Bunk Campers for now for similar pricing and pick-ups in both Dublin and Belfast!

Why might you not want to hire a campervan?

That being said, here’s a few reasons why hiring a campervan to roadtrip Ireland might not be for you.

You’re travelling solo

Travelling Ireland in a campervan is naturally less sociable than, say, being on a tour with lots of other people.

If you’re on your own driving around the country, you might find the whole experience a bit less enjoyable.

You like your space

If you’re in a small campervan, then storage space is a luxury.

You’ll need to keep everything tidy as you go and you will be sleeping, driving and cooking all in the same space.

For us, this wasn’t an issue, but I know some people who wouldn’t like the slightly cramped nature of living out of a van for a couple of weeks.

You’re not a fan of shared campsite facilities

In Ireland, all of the campsites we stayed at were of decent quality, and any shared toilets and showers were cleaned regularly.

But some people simply don’t like sharing such facilities with strangers.

You’re not a confident driver

Irish roads are surprisingly well maintained, but the bigger issue is that they are often very narrow.

So, if you’re not a very confident driver, then you might find the task of driving a large van or motorhome very daunting.

There will be times when you will need to maneuver carefully and there will be some streets that you simply can’t fit down.

How long do you need to rent for?

Well, isn’t that the million Euro question!

The quick answer is … “there is no answer”.

It’s completely up to you how long you wish to take.

Of course, if you are renting a motorhome or campervan , then you want to make best use of your time, so it’s good to sort out an itinerary ahead of time.

I will say, if you want plenty of time to see the whole of Ireland, like we did, then 16 days is the bare minimum you should allow.

We were fortunate enough to travel in June when the days were long, so we had a good 14 hours of sunlight every day to explore.

For the itinerary we followed, I’d say that perhaps 3 weeks is a more reasonable amount of time.

A month or more would be even better, as then you could travel further inland and do some day trips to other islands as well.

That being said, if you are limited on time and funds, then a 1 or 2 week Ireland campervan rental will suffice.

It just means you’ll need to sort out a solid route to follow so you can squeeze in as much as possible.

If you want to get across to the West coast and see even a few of the top sites, then I would recommend 4 or 5 days at a minimum.

Planning an Ireland itinerary

To help give you an idea of what to expect, here are a few itineraries you could follow that I would recommend:

Our 16 day itinerary

A part of this, we did an entire loop of Ireland, starting just outside Dublin and ending back there.

This included almost all of the Wild Atlantic Way and all of Ireland's top sites in both the south and north.

You can read the full route here .

Some shorter 7 day itineraries

For each of the road trips, you will need to do your research and pinpoint places to see in between, but each of the towns listed is a good rest point for the night.

• Dublin (1 night) > Kilkenny (1 night) > Blarney (1 night) > Killarney (1 night) > Ring of Kerry (1 night) > Limerick (1 night)
• Limerick (1 night) > Doolin (1 night) > Galway (1 night) > Roundstone (1 night) > Athlone (1 night) > Dublin (1 night)
• Belfast (1 night) > Derry (1 night) > Donegal (1 night) > Sligo (1 night) > Athlone (1 night) > Dublin (1 night)

For more help deciding where to stop, there are some useful guides we wrote:

• The Best Places To Visit In Ireland
• Ireland’s Best Castles
• What To Do In Ireland
• Our Ireland Travel Guide

Finding the right company for your road trip

The great thing nowadays is that there are plenty of Irish campervan hire firms to choose from.

Because road tripping Ireland is becoming so popular, there’s plenty of choice out there.

When we were researching companies to collaborate with for our trip, we opted for Spaceships Rentals . Mainly because:

• They offer the most reasonably priced vehicles - For the base models, it is actually highly affordable, even for budget travellers like ourselves
• The Caddy is a custom-converted Volkswagen Caddy Maxi - Making it a lot smaller and easier to drive than a full motorhome
• They have a good range of vehicles - Right through from custom-converted Volkswagen Caddys to much larger RVs and motorhomes
• They have tonnes of solid reviews across all platforms and are a trusted, worldwide company.
• Their vehicles all seemed very modern and fuel-efficient
• Their “no excess” fee was just €23 a day - Some firms don’t allow you to completely remove excess, or if they do, they often charge more than Spaceships do

Seeing as we went with them, obviously I’m a little biased in my recommendation! 

However, we did write a full review of them, which you can read here .

It’s a fair account of our experience, which does point out the issues we had as well.

But yes, I do recommend you check around online to research other firms and find one that suits your needs and budget best.

A quick Google search of “ Ireland campervan rental” will quickly turn up some good companies to explore.

What to look for in a great Irish rental firm

When making your decision of which company to go with, here are some important things to look for.

• Solid reviews - Google Reviews and Facebook reviews are always a good starting point. As well as seeing what other bloggers have said about them by typing in “COMPANY NAME review”.
• Modern vehicles - To save money on fuel, and ensure you have a safe trip without breakdowns, it’s best to find a company offering vehicles that are no more than a few years old. Campervans easily rack up tens of thousands of kilometres, even in their first year, and any decent firm will always be reinvesting in modern vehicles.
• No added extras - Check the small print to see what is actually included in your rental. Things that typically aren’t included in the initial quotation are bedding and any cooking equipment.  Also, some firms might have limits on the number of kilometres you can drive, and then charge you extra for going over.
• Affordable insurance cover - If you want real peace of mind when hiring a campervan in Ireland, you can pay a set amount for every day of the hire in order to reduce the excess in case of damages. For example, we paid €23 so as to have €0 excess. We had the choice not to get this, but felt a lot better having it. For larger campervans, it’s often not possible to entirely remove the excess charge.
• Breakdown cover - There’s always a chance something will go wrong on your travels, and any decent hire company should offer full breakdown cover as standard with your hire.
• Where their offices are located - Not all firms have offices located all across Ireland, though most are located close to Dublin. Just check which airport you are flying into.

Driving a campervan or RV in Ireland: What you need to know

Before you head off in your swanky new campervan, there's a few things you should first know about driving in Ireland .

• They drive on the left
• No turning right on red - for you American readers
• The roads can get very narrow, especially in the rural areas and cities. In some parts, you will be unable to get a large campervan or motorhome through
• There aren’t a lot of motorways
• They drive in km/h in the south & mph in north
• Speed limits are well sign posted throughout each country
• You will see a lot of animals in the road, so take it easy

Top tips for saving money on your campervan hire

To help save money on the cost of your trip, here are a few top tips for cutting back on expenses with your campervan.

Check out my full list of Ireland travel tips here .

Go out of season when prices are massively reduced

Peak months for campervan rental companies in Ireland are June till August ; as this is when schools are out and the weather is at its best.

However, if you don’t mind putting up with shorter, colder days (and maybe the odd bit of snow), then you can save 50% or more by booking in low season.

There’s nothing to say that roadtripping Ireland wouldn’t be equally as amazing in Autumn or Spring, especially when you can make huge savings on both the cost of the van and any campsites.

Travel with more friends

Our Delta campervan with Spaceships Rentals slept 2, but had seats for 4 people.

If we were really looking to cut back, we could have found two more people to roadtrip with and then cut the cost of the rental in half.

All you’d need is a small 2-person tent with you and then take it in turns with where you sleep each night.

Make good use of the cooking facilities

Your campervan rental should come fully kitted with basic cooking equipment.

We used our small gas stove every day, at least for breakfast, dinner and the odd cup of tea.

Eating out in Ireland can be expensive (a standard pub meal is roughly €12-18), so you can save a heck of a lot by cooking for yourself every night.

That leaves more money for beer!

Wild camp wherever possible

My number 1 tip for saving money when caravanning Ireland is to wild camp wherever possible. 

We wild camped most nights, and they were the best nights of the whole trip!

Each night we fell asleep watching waves crash against cliffs and then got to enjoy early morning sunrises over the horizon.

Here’s a look at our favourite spots for wild camping in Ireland .

Other common questions when hiring a campervan:

Finally, here are some other common questions (that I know we had) about hiring a campervan in Ireland.

How do you find campsites for the night?

Our van came with a Camping Ireland guide filled with hundreds of campsites all across Ireland. We used this most of the time when looking for camping and caravanning spots.

Other useful websites include:

• Camping Ireland
• Euro Campings

Is it safe driving a campervan in Ireland?

I wouldn’t say it is necessarily any more dangerous than driving elsewhere in Europe.

But of course, you should exercise suitable caution when driving down narrow country roads.

In the south of Ireland, we found that drivers are a lot more patient than those in the north; but that being said, Irish roads have their fair share of serious accidents.

If it’s raining heavily and visibility is poor, I would advise trying not to drive until the weather clears up.

Not only because of other drivers, but also wayward sheep still out on the roads late at night!

And if the roads are very wet, then take it easy as they aren’t always in the best of condition.

Is it difficult driving a campervan?

The campervan that we had was a converted Volkswagen Caddy Maxi , which isn’t too much bigger than a regular car.

Sure, it’s a little wider, but not by much; which is another reason why I loved driving it so much.

It handled very easily and was easy to maneuver.

In terms of driving anything bigger, like a campervan, then I really can’t say as I don’t have any direct experience.

What happens if I break down?

As long as you hire through a decent company, you should have full breakdown cover.

Make sure to check the small print to see if you are covered, and get any necessary breakdown numbers when picking up your vehicle.

When is peak season in Ireland for campervans and motorhomes?

June-August.

Can I buy my own campervan/motorhome?

Hell yeah you can!

But that’s always going to be a lot more hassle and will require a lot more money up front.

Unless you have 3 months to convert a campervan like we did in 2020!

That being said, if you plan to roadtrip Ireland for a good couple months, then you could always buy one and sell it for a similar price, meaning you cut back massively on the cost of your van.

I know that Spaceships look to sell their vehicles when upgrading their fleet, and you can check out current listings here .

If you’re looking for other motorhomes or campervans for sale in Ireland, another good site to search on is Gumtree .

Final Thoughts on hiring a campervan in Ireland

If hiring a campervan in Ireland seems like your idea of a dream holiday, then I’d say go for it!

There really is nothing stopping you from having one of the most enjoyable experiences of your life , driving across the gorgeous Emerald Isle.

Our time roadtripping Ireland was nothing short of perfect and we saw everything we dreamt of seeing and more.

We got extremely lucky with the weather as well, which was a bonus!

Above I’ve tried to give an honest and fair overview of what it’s like renting a driving a motorhome or campervan in Ireland.

Do you have any more questions?

Just leave me a comment below!

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Whilst a stop in Dublin is a must on every holidaymaker's bucket list, there is nothing more magical than a road trip around Ireland to discover the secrets that have been capturing the hearts of poets, musicians and royalty for centuries.

Apollo's Dublin depot is conveniently located less than 2KM from Dublin airport, meaning it is easy and convenient to get on the open road.

From our depot, head west to the unmissable Wild Atlantic Way, a 2500KM driving route that hugs the coastline and stretches from Cork to the undiscovered Irish speaking region of Donegal. To learn about Ireland's fascinating history, tour the Ancient East where the castles and monuments tell stories dating back thousands of years. Or why not head north to the famous Game of Thrones territory and the Giant's Causeway? Whichever direction your Apollo motorhome holiday takes you, you will be amazed at just how much Ireland's charm remains unspoiled over time. 

Winding coastal roads sit sandwiched between Atlantic waves and rolling hills filled with painted cows and sheep. Farmers rise early and leave their thatched cottages to herd cattle from field to field and road trippers often find themselves transported to a different type of rush hour traffic. As you tour in your Apollo motorhome, don't forget to stop and enjoy the music flowing out of traditional pubs- meeting locals and enjoying the 'craic' is the perfect way to get connected to Irish culture and before heading back to your vehicle for a cosy night's sleep.  

Ireland's mild maritime climate makes it suitable for campervan and motorhome hire all year round. To help you on your way, all Apollo's campervans and motorhomes for hire in Ireland come fitted with on-board heating, making them suitable for travel all year round. Choose from our modern fleet of campervans and motorhomes - from compact campervans to large motorhomes for 6 people, we have vehicles to suit every kind of motorhome holiday to Ireland.

Start your Ireland Motorhome Holiday

Belfast depot.

For campervan or motorhome hire in Northern Ireland, our Apollo depot in Belfast is the perfect starting point. Located just 15 minutes from the city centre and within easy reach of the famous Causeway Coastal Route, Game of Thrones filming locations and all that Ireland has to offer.

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What is it about camping that seems to bring so much whimsy and romance to a holiday? Maybe it’s the freedom to follow your own plan; the ease of unfurling your sleeping bag wherever you lay your hat; or even the simple pleasure of cooking your own meals over a campfire. Perhaps it’s just the affordability of a tent over a hotel room: after all, Ireland’s landscapes are the main attraction for most of us—and they’re free for everyone to enjoy.

We’ve rounded up some of the best spots around the island to take a trip as a camper or caravan driver. And the best part? Since you set the schedule, you can visit them all!

Camping and caravanning around the island of Ireland

L-R: The Botanical B&B, County Cork; Purecamping sauna, County Clare; The Hideaway, County Cork; Clogher Valley Country Caravan Park, County Tyrone

Camping, glamping or caravanning?

Serviced camper van and caravan sites are widespread across Ireland, so make sure to park up in a designated camping spot—not on farmland, a beach or at a roadside. Ballyness Caravan Park in County Antrim  is the ideal spot to set up camp for a family friendly trip along the Causeway Coast, while The Hideaway in Cork  and Clifden Eco Beach Camping and Caravanning Park offer excellent facilities in beautiful locations. Best of all, most sites have bathing facilities, so you don’t have to sacrifice your hot shower in the morning!

Top tip: The Irish Caravan and Camping Council is a great port of call if you have any specific queries on serviced camper van and caravan sites on the island.

If you want to take your Ireland adventure on the road, why not hire a campervan? Rental companies offer everything from budget campers to large motorhomes and you can get behind the wheel with your standard car driving licence. Try Bunk Campers , Craic 'n' Campers or West Coast Campervans to get you started.

Rock Farm, Slane, County Meath

In recent years, glamping has soared in popularity, too. It ticks all the boxes, appealing both to those who are used to roughing it and want to try a bit of luxury camping for a change, as well as those who have never before seen the inside of a tent. The location of the Aran Islands glamping grounds is unbeatable; Rossharbour’s lakeside cabins are a dream; while the incredible Luxury Glamping Truck at Larchfield Estate is serenity and swank all in one.

Sustainable travel

Here’s how to travel sustainably in Ireland so you can love this place and leave no trace.

What to do in the great outdoors

It might sound obvious, but picnicking can be one of the greatest joys of any camping trip. There’s nothing like waking up on a dew-strewn morning, firing up the stove and frying some sausages, rashers and black pudding! Ireland’s fries are famous, so make sure to shop local at one of our markets, such as Cork City's English Market , for the authentic taste – and, as always, remember to quench any fires and take all your rubbish away with you.

Another huge plus of this style of travel is that you can literally do whatever you want. Explore the Ring of Kerry.  Check. Swim in a secluded freshwater pool? Easy, try Pooleen in County Cork. Find a walking trail or birdwatch on a quiet nature reserve or national park? Done. Cycle along a lush greenway ? Take your pick ! And best of all, there’s no long commute home: just pitch your tent or park your caravan and doze off in your dream location…

Relaxing at Finn Lough, County Fermanagh

5 of the best places to camp or take a caravan

Ireland's camping and caravanning gems.

Discover some of the island's most enticing places to stay

Knockalla Caravan & Camping Park

Powers the Pot Caravan and Camping Park

Lough Ree (East) Caravan & Camping

Aran Islands Camping & Glamping

Belleek Park, Caravan and Camping

Adare Camping & Caravan Site

Binion Bay Caravan Park

Clissmann Horse Drawn Caravans

Blackwater Eco Pods

Knockalla Caravan & Camping Park is nestled between the slopes of Knockalla Mountain and the golden sands of Ballymastocker Bay. It is a Family park with a four star rating over looking a beautiful beach.

Ideally positioned for walking holidays, Powers the Pot Caravan and Camping Park is found at the side of the Comeragh Mountains yet with all the amenities of Clonmel Town within reach. It is near the border between counties Tipperary and Waterford.

On the shores of Upper Lough Erne, this spot is made for water-lovers. Bring a towel!

Aran Islands Camping & Glamping offers guests an exclusive experience in Inis Mor, one of the beautiful Aran Islands off the coast of County Galway.

Belleek Park Caravan and Camping provides four star facilities for visitors to Ballina, County Mayo. A well established, award winning, family run park. In an excellent location for touring the West of Ireland.

A very friendly, family-run campsite, Adare Camping & Caravan is a wonderful base for touring County Limerick and beyond, as well as for a short stopover on a longer journey. The park provides a relaxing atmosphere and a whole range of facilities.

Blackwater Eco Pods offer accommodation, river activities and walking trails in the River Blackwater Valley based in Villierstown, County Waterford.

🚀 Unforgettable adventures from $1/night - explore more, pay less! Click here

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Campervan and RV Rental in Ireland

Famous for its medieval castles and pubs, Ireland has much to offer, and with campervan and RV rentals in Ireland, you can do it all with style. Campervan rental in Ireland allows you to explore the entire country and fall in love with its unique landscapes, Celtic heritage, and Irish hospitality.

Ireland National Parks

In Ireland, you can rent a campervan and travel to explore the numerous national parks available. We recommend visiting Killykeen Forest Park, a densely wooded location known for its moderate hiking excursions. It's also an excellent place for a picnic. For more mountain hikes, visit Connemara National Park. The views are stunning across this 7,000-acre park with bogs and grasslands around every bend. 

When renting a campervan in Ireland, you may also visit Curragh Chase Forest Park, Irish National Heritage Park (here you can see the Stone Age formations), and Wild Derrynane if you plan a road trip to South Ireland . 

Ireland Coastline, Lakes, and Rivers

Rent a campervan in Ireland to explore many of the coastline towns. You can book Ireland road trips from Dublin to Wexford, a noted medieval and boating area. You can head down to Cork, the second largest city in the country, home to the Blackrock Castle Observatory and the Blarney Stone. It's right off Lough Mahon and the River Lee.

With campervan rental in Ireland, you can find a few lakes to explore. Take your campervan or RV to Carrigfoyle Lake, near Wexford, for one of the most beautiful untouched lakes. If you want to do some fishing, Loch Mahon Fishing Lakes in Wexford are another option. More towards the center of the country are Lough Ennell and Lough Owel, which are pretty tranquil lakes.

Visit Belfast by campervan or RV rental in Ireland. Here, you will be within a short drive of Lough Neagh, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Northern Ireland. Visit the National Nature Reserve of Oxford Island, which is nearby, if you want to do some swimming.

Campgrounds in Ireland

With our helpful how-to guides , you can explore all of Ireland in your campervan. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. With RVs in Ireland, you may need to reserve campsites before your visit. We recommend planning your trip to find campervan and RV-friendly campgrounds.

You can rent RVs and visit the region with ease. Most areas of Ireland offer a few campervan and RV campsite options. If you are looking for a location near Dublin, choose Camac Valley Tourist Caravan and Camping Park. If you are in Kerry, the waterfront campsites at Wave Crest Caravan and Camping Park are some of the best. Near Cork, you'll find Glengarriff Caravan and Camping Park.

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MOTORVANA uses buying power to offer you big RV rental savings. Moreover we facilitate the whole Ireland motorhome rental and camper van hire booking process, providing ultra-responsive customer support and a true  total RV rental cost you can count on. We give you peace of mind.

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Book early to secure availability. Many clients book their Ireland RV hire months in advance. Moreover, said discount tends to be higher the earlier a motorhome rental booking is made.

Economically travel mystical Ireland with the freedom and comfort of an RV rental — a veritable vacation home on wheels. Our Ireland RV rental delivery and return can be made in Dublin and at Shannon, Kerry or Cork airports.

Ireland has so much to offer, and a motorhome rental opens it all to you. Unpack just once and go, go, go. To the Boyne Valley, New Grange, the Giant's Causeway, lovely Galway, seaside Doolin and her traditional Irish music session pubs, to the Cliffs of Moher, the Aran Isles, the Dingle Peninsula, to the Ring of Kerry and her marvelous mountain lakes, to Blarney Castle, indeed to medieval and ancient castles and neolithic monuments galore, to cosmopolitan Cork, and of course to good ol' Dublin.

Belfast, in Northern Ireland, is a rejuvenated city; after many troubled decades it is now thriving with a strong dining and nightlife scene. In addition to the Giant's Causeway, Lough Neagh is a highlight of the north: the biggest lake in the British Isles offers much in the way of scenery and recreation. Passing into Northern Ireland, the currency switches from euros (EUR) to British pounds (GBP) and the road signs switch from kilometers to miles, but the beauty and verdant landscapes remain the same.

Auto caravan or campervan hire in Ireland is such a great way to experience all the wonders of "The Emerald Isle".

Famous RV travel itineraries in Ireland include the 2600-kilometer (1600-mile) Wild Atlantic Way, the stunning Causeway Coastal Route, the Ring of Kerry, the Skellig Ring, the Midlands Historic Houses and Castles Tour, and a journey through 5000 years of history in Ireland's Ancient East.

Ireland has a great road network so traveling by RV between cities like Limerick, Galway, Cork, Dublin and Belfast is easy and efficient. Traffic is minimal. Driving is on the left.

Much of the great charm of Ireland resides along country lanes and in the small towns where you can share a pint with the locals in the pub. Once off the main highways in your RV, you will likely find the roads quite narrow. Some are only one lane, so you will need to be cooperative when you meet another vehicle. No problem. In rural areas, fill your fuel tank when you have the chance as fuel stations can be far apart and are not likely to be open 24/7. Plan to make haste slowly. Between low speed limits and narrow country lanes, you are not going to get anywhere in Ireland in a hurry. But that's the whole point when traveling Ireland by RV!

Land of stunning scenery and ultra green hills. Land of myth and legend and enchantment. Land of writers, of poets, of musicians. Land of Gaelic language. At the very edge of Europe, Ireland is home and host to mystery and magic in every valley and field, every pub and person, every historical site and, yes, every RV campsite.

Motorhome camping parks abound all round Ireland. See the Irish Caravan and Camping Council website and ASCI's Campsite Ireland website.

Note April, May and September are great months to travel Ireland, as rainfall in Ireland is typically lowest during those months.

And don't sell wintertime short: crisp mornings, dewy glens and the sun low in the sky are the perfect prelude to a cozy evening in a pub with friends and family, delectable Irish fare, Guinness, Harp, or Irish whiskey, and local characters and musicians.

Apart from our Motorvana QUANTUM online discount, the prices and policies presented on the Motorvana website match the prices and policies of our motorhome rental suppliers. You aren't paying extra by going through Motorvana — in fact you're paying less, thanks to our unilateral, QUANTUM discount.

Motorvana facilitates the whole RV rental booking process, presenting a single total cost you can count on — and acting for you as an accessible resource and, if necessary, as a mediator.

Motorvana: Free Your Travel.

Cost Of Renting A Campervan In Ireland

How much does it cost to rent an RV in Ireland? Several variables determine the cost of a motorhome rental or campervan hire in Ireland, including RV size, seasonality, and optional extras.

For exact total costs, please submit a SEARCH above. Our online order software will present all the RVs, whether motorhome, campervan or truck camper, ordered by price.

If you then click on the MORE INFO button below a RV image, all details about the RV, price, inclusions, depot location, and policies will be presented.

Various optional items are available for hire with a RV rental, and these greatly affect the total cost. These items (e.g. camping table and chairs, bedding, shuttle transfer) are presented during the ADD OPTIONS step of our online order process, along with selectable pick-up and return times.

In many cases the RV rental company offers free miles / free kilometers and/or an inclusive package that bundles together a set of optional extras for one relatively low price. Again, don't worry about those packages. Just select à la carte the options you want and our software will apply an inclusive package if such is available and if such package indeed gives you a lower price than actually paying for the options à la carte.

Similarly, RV rental companies often offer specials that involve optional extras. Such specials can be complicated and hard for customers to understand. Again, our software is carefully programmed and maintained to automatically apply any specials that benefit you.

We think our software is unique in terms helping our customers optimize their RV rental and minimize their costs in these important respects. Our aim is to provide you with the best value and to increase our sales as a result.

For a variety of information and websites related to traveling Ireland by RV, please visit our European RV Travel Resources page.

Motorvana Ireland RV Rental Reviews

We recently rented a camper van from Motorvana and toured from Lyon to the Alps region where we did some spring skiing for 3 weeks then headed to the French Riviera for 10 days... we loved this mode of travel and found campsites easily in most places we went. My husband did all the driving and he was most impressed by the European drivers as opposed to the drivers in the USA. He found the camper fairly easy to operate even touring the mountains with the tight hairpin turns.   Read More … Barabara Falk & Ladd Burmaster

We wanted to thank Motorvana and Avis Car away for the most incredible experience traveling through France, Switzerland and Germany. The Class B+ motor home provided was exceptional (we wish comparable vehicles were available in North America). The service and support from Motorvana made the planning and reservation process effortless. Responses to our many questions were incredibly prompt and thorough.   Read More … Stefan & Nicole Price

This is a totally unsolicited note of pure praise for Motorvana from a retired local judge who admires competence and doesn't suffer fools graciously. If someone can please this cynical old coot, they probably can please anyone. My wife and I, in our 70's, recently returned from a ten week RV trip through Europe. Our RV rental was arranged through Motorvana, and picked up in Germany. Prior to this experience we had no prior dealings with or knowledge of Motorvana.   Read More … Bob Fogelson

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Camper Van & RV Rental in Dublin

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Rent an RV in Dublin

Dublin is the heart of Ireland and one of the most easy-to-love cities in the world. Famous for its rich history, picturesque landscapes and jovial locals, it’s no wonder that Dublin is a popular destination for tourists. Yet, it’s more than just a vibrant urban hub. It’s also the perfect launchpad to explore the enchanting Irish countryside with an RV rental. Rent an RV in Dublin and you’ll be just a short journey away from the majestic Cliffs of Moher, the magical Ring of Kerry and the serene Wicklow Mountains. Begin your unforgettable adventure with an RV rental in Dublin and let the Emerald Isles stir your soul.

Starting at $89 / night

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Where can I pick up my RV rental in Dublin?

Stay tuned – more information coming soon.

Dublin (Opens soon: 4/22/24)

Unit E, Airport Business Campus Swords Rd Santry, Dublin 9 Ireland

Getting to the station

From Dublin Airport: The bus ride from the airport takes only 20 minutes and costs €3 per person (please ensure you have the exact change). Simply walk 3 minutes to the Dublin Airport – T1 Bus Stop. Catch Bus No. 16 heading towards Ballinteer. After an 8-minute ride (10 stops), hop off at Santry Close. Then, enjoy a 500-meter walk through the Airport Business Campus following the signs to us. From Conolly Train Station: Walk to Gardiner Street Lwr, stop 1171. Take Bus 41 (dir. Swords Manor). Get off at Northwood Plaza, Santry. Walk through the Airport Business Campus following the signs to us.

Parking information

The Crowne Plaza Dublin Airport offers a paid and secure multi-storey car park, located just 1 km from our location.

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Explore Dublin RV Rentals

Surfer Suite Class B RV | VW T6.1 California Ocean

• 150 hp diesel engine
• Integrated kitchen
• Outdoor shower (cold water)
• Automatic pop-up roof
• Rear parking sensors with camera
• Cruise and distance control ACC, GPS

Road House Class B RV | Sprinter

• 140 hp diesel engine
• Large kitchen area
• Indoor shower/wet bath (hot water)
• Manual pop-up roof
• Rear parking sensors with camera, cruise control, etc.

Cozy Cottage Class C RV

• 177 hp diesel engine
• Spacious living-kitchen area
• Large wet bath (hot water)
• Without pop-up roof
• Rear view camera, cruise control, spacious rear compartment, etc.

Your roadsurfer Benefits

Brand new, fully equipped camper vans & RVs

Unlimited mileage & free 2nd driver

Rebook or cancel with the Flex option up to 48 hours before departure

Camping equipment & kitchen utensils included

Roadside assistance

Rent a Roadsurfer Camper Van or RV in Dublin

Renting a camper van in Dublin allows you to explore the city’s rich history and lively nightlife, but don’t forget about Ireland’s other treasures. Venture to the dramatic Cliffs of Moher or meander through the iconic Ring of Kerry. If you’re seeking peace and quiet, visit the Wicklow Mountains and enjoy its breathtaking scenery. Of course, Trinity College and the Guinness Storehouse are must-see attractions for any visitor to Dublin too – don’t miss them while you’re in town! Read on below for our tips for your road trip in Ireland.

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• Best Time of Year to Visit
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Camper vans & RVs with ready-to-go camping gear

Our roadsurfer camper vans and RVs are equipped with everything you may need or want on your Dublin road trip. Enjoy a seamless driving experience with built-in navigation, relax and unwind on a big and comfortable bed, and make use of a fully stocked kitchen box that includes a pot and pan, tableware, glasses, utensils, mugs, and a French press for your coffee, allowing you to prepare your favorite meals. Additionally, we provide an outdoor table and camping chairs so you can enjoy your time outside. The only thing you need to bring is a comforter or sleeping bag and your sense of adventure. You can also reserve a comforter when you book your camper van from Dublin, along with many other items that you can find on our  equipment list .

Filling and emptying water tanks in Dublin

You’ll need to fill up the freshwater tank at the beginning of your trip, and empty your grey water at the end. This can be done at a campsite, but if you need a dedicated area to dispose of grey water or waste, there is a water service service station at the Estuary Recycling Centre, located 8km away from our Dublin location.

• Estuary Recycling Centre – Greenfields, Swords, Co. Dublin, Ireland

Gas stations near our Dublin station

Before you return your motorhome rental, you can refill with diesel and AdBlue at the following gas station, just 3-minutes from us:

• Applegreen Santry – Swords Rd, Turnapin Great, Swords, Co. Dublin, K67 Y2C9

Please note: The AdBlue service station information provided is for guidance only and is provided without warranty of any kind; customers are advised to check the information for accuracy on their own responsibility, as roadsurfer assumes no liability for the accuracy or timeliness of the information.

Parking in Dublin

Parking in Dublin itself is tricky with a motorhome. Most parking spots are free in the suburbs, but you’ll have to pay for parking in the city center. In addition, nearly all of the best parking lots in the city center are multi-level garages with height restrictions – a no go for camper vans and motorhomes. Fortunately, so long as you don’t mind doing a little walking or catching public transport, there are plenty of options.

• Camper park Dublin: While not a motorhome park per se, this off-the-road location offers a great opportunity to park overnight and explore Dublin. Located on the grounds of the famous White House Pub (in operation since 1620), it’s close to ferry ports and only 20 minutes from O’Connell Street.
• Connolly Station Car Park – An open air parking lot close to the city center. It’s amongst the cheapest in the city and ideal if you plan on booking a motorhome rental in Dublin given that there are no height restrictions.
• Red Cow Luas Stop – Located just off the M50 orbital motorway (highway) in the western suburbs, this stop doesn’t have height restrictions but you’ll need to jump on a tram to reach the city (approx. 25-minutes).
• Sandymount Strand – There are multiple beachside parking options along Sandymount Strand promenade. You’re also within walking distance to Sandymount train station, which can take you to the city center in 25 minutes.

Campgrounds near Dublin

Dublin really is the perfect starting point for your trip, and with an RV rental you have the freedom to explore all the hidden gems of Ireland. If you’re looking for a place to park your motorhome overnight, there are several campgrounds near Dublin that are also close to popular attractions.

• Camac Valley Tourist Caravan and Camping Park: Just a 30-minute drive from Dublin’s city center, this campground offers all the amenities you need including electric hook-ups, laundry facilities and a shop for essentials. The park also has a playground, tennis court and mini-golf course for entertainment.
• Lough Ennell Caravan and Camping Park: Located in County Westmeath, this campground is a scenic 1-hour drive west of Dublin. Set on the shores of Lough Ennell, it’s perfect for water activities such as fishing and kayaking. The site also has electric hook-ups, showers and a playground.
• Roundwood Caravan & Camping Park: This campground is nestled in the picturesque Wicklow Mountains, roughly an hour’s drive from Dublin. It offers stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking and horseback riding. Facilities include electric hook-ups, showers and a playground.

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‘Lucky to be alive’: family’s motorhome blown away while they are in it

Rental vehicle containing two adults, two children and two dogs tumbled down hill towards loch after ‘freak gust of wind’

A family whose motorhome was destroyed by a “freak gust of wind” during a storm in the Scottish Highlands is said to be very lucky to be alive.

The family of four and their two dogs were inside the rental vehicle, which was parked in a layby on Scotland’s North Coast 500 route, when high winds knocked it over and sent it tumbling headlong down a hill towards a loch.

Police and emergency services attended the scene on the A896 near Shieldaig, Wester Ross, but found the entire family and both dogs had survived the accident with only minor injuries.

“It’s a miracle that no one was seriously hurt,” said Peter Schmidt, owner of Luna motorhome hire , who had rented out the £70,000 vehicle to the family over the Easter break. “It’s just unbelievable.”

He received a phone call from a member of the family shortly after the accident, explaining that the vehicle had been written off. “They weren’t sure how many times it rolled, or whether it had rolled at all, but when it came to standstill, they all got out and found the van had started to fall apart around them.”

Everything had been thrown about everywhere, they told him, including the roof, which they saw “flying around” in one piece during the accident. “It sounded pretty scary,” he said.

“The kids were resting on the beds, and the fridges in these motorhomes are really heavy and there’s a lot of sharp corners, and there’s knives – because we provide a cutlery set – and there’s gas bottles … when you think about what happened, and all the equipment in there, it’s a complete miracle. They are very, very lucky.”

Photos show the devastation that occurred. “As a friend of mine in the industry said, it looks like it had blown up. But the gas bottles were intact.”

The two children and the dogs were “pretty much unharmed”, he said, while the adult passengers suffered only bruising.

After making sure the family was OK and receiving medical attention, Schmidt asked for photos of the van and its location so he could arrange for its recovery.

“Of course, my heart sank. But what was more important was that no one was hurt beyond a couple of bruises. And whatever happens to my customers – even if it is a freak gust of wind that blows them off – I feel some responsibility towards them.”

He has been hiring out motorhomes for six years and said that the accident, which occurred during Storm Kathleen last Sunday, was “extremely freakish”.

“The worst I’ve ever seen before this was someone driving under a bridge and taking off the roof. This was a very, very, very freakish incident.”

The storm caused widespread travel and power disruption to Ireland and the UK last weekend, with peak wind gusts of 40-60mph (65-95km/h) recorded quite widely across Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland and western parts of England and Wales.

About 180 people had to be rescued from a holiday park in West Sussex and in Cornwall beach huts were washed into the sea by strong winds.

Schmidt is planning to offer more safety briefings to his customers in the future about driving in difficult weather conditions, particularly on the North Coast 500 route, a popular circular route of just over 500 miles around the stunning north coast of Scotland.

“The roads are small, they’re tight, manoeuvring a vehicle that you’re not used to driving is difficult. If there are high winds, then you have to think about how and where you park the vehicle, just in case. Because you never know,” he said.

Luckily, the motorhome was insured, he said, and the family decided to stay in Scotland and, in true British style, carried on with the rest of their holiday, before renting a car for the long drive back to England.

“They chose not to go for another motorhome,” Schmidt said.

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10 Essential Accessories For Your Camper Van

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A camper van is a great way to experience outdoor living without giving up too many home comforts. It provides the freedom to go off-grid for a while, enjoy remote areas, and visit alluring destinations on a budget. Traveling in a camper van is also an effective way to make use of the limited time available to travel, as you can visit several locations and resettle elsewhere whenever you feel like it.

One significant benefit to traveling in an RV is it enables you to take many useful items along for the trip. These can include practical devices to help you stay connected and improve the standard of living while you're away from home, as well as lifestyle solutions to make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable. 

Some items are essential on an extended camper van trip if you wish to make the most of your vacation time. Whether you are a digital nomad, a fair-weather camper, or a die-hard outdoor enthusiast, here are ten indispensable accessories that will help improve life in your recreational vehicle.

Read more: Major Car Wheel Brands Ranked Worst To Best

Outdoor Camping Mat

Camping is one of the best ways to get closer to nature. However, there's such a thing as being too close, especially when it comes to rough, soggy, uneven, or insect-ridden ground on your doorstep. You may also simply wish to wander around with no shoes or avoid tracking dirt into your living space. The simplest solution to these issues is to buy an outdoor camping mat.

An outdoor mat is inexpensive and can transform an outdoor space into a clean, communal area to kick back and relax outside your camper van. They are usually woven with plastic fibers to provide a waterproof, easy-to-clean solution that is comfortable underfoot and an insulated layer on which to rest and unwind. A camping mat is also an environmentally responsible means of protecting sensitive habitats around campsites from human interference, and it helps to define your living space and prevent encroachment from other campers and their vehicles.

Many rugs are available in different designs and dimensions to suit your ideal outdoor living space. For instance, mats from Balajees USA come in several sizes, from as small as 3x6 feet to as large as 9x18 feet, and cost between $29.99 and $89.49 on Amazon . They are made from recycled materials, are UV-treated to prevent fading, and pack up small for transit.

Camper Awning

You can never predict the weather conditions on longer trips and should be ready to enjoy the outdoor life come rain or shine. A camper awning provides a large shady area that also protects against rain showers. This is all the more helpful if you have outdoor devices, furniture, and an outdoor mat that you want to keep dry or away from direct sunlight.

A camper awning helps expand your living space to the outdoors and works well with an outdoor mat. Many types of awnings are available, including standalone options and those that partially attach to your vehicle. More recently, inflatable awnings have provided a lightweight and practical solution, although these are often designed to suit specific vehicles. There is an awning to suit every requirement, shape, and size imaginable, as well as every budget.

If you are a camper van user looking for a well-designed midrange awning, you could consider this model by MoonShade for $395 on Amazon . It attaches to your vehicle for added strength at the rear side and is supported by two upright poles with guyropes. Its familiar tent peg and flexible pole design are quick and easy to assemble, and it uses a waterproof polyester canvas with UV-blocking properties to reflect the sun's rays, keeping you cooler in hot climates.

Portable Shower And Water Heater

Staying fresh and clean while living outdoors can present a challenge, especially if you are camping off-grid and far from the utilities of public campsites. Hygiene is all the more critical while away from home to maintain good health, prevent infectious illnesses, and simply maintain a feeling of comfort and well-being as you travel.

A camping shower allows you to keep good personal hygiene in remote camping areas and provides hot water for washing dishes and other purposes. They are available in electric, solar, or propane-powered options, and when used with a folding shower tent, they make an indispensable addition to your remote campsite.

There is a portable shower to suit all requirements and budgets, but those looking for an off-grid might consider this propane gas-powered model from Hike Crew at $269.99 on Amazon . This mobile standalone hot water unit can easily be carried between the shower area and kitchen and also includes an accurate thermostat with a digital temperature reading, a safety cutoff feature, and a shower head hose attachment. In addition, the Hike Crew portable water heater comes with a faucet attachment for cleaning dishes and handwashing.

Foldable Electric Bike

Foldable bikes are a useful addition to any camper van's inventory, as they provide quick, convenient transport without you having to pack up your van and leave the campsite. They are a leisurely means for exploring the immediate area and pack away easily for transport and storage. Upgrade these to an electric bike, and the benefits are even more significant, as you can travel further afield without expending as much energy, which can be spent on other pursuits.

Even the best electric bikes are sometimes seen as an extravagance by those who haven't tried them. Once you start pedaling and feel the assisted electric motor kick in, all doubts will begin to fade as you experience all the advantages of cycling but with a fraction of the effort. Many electric bikes come with valuable features such as disc brakes, LED illumination, and LCDs for essential rider information and are built to a high specification with premium parts.

While there are plenty of great electric bikes available, one to consider is the Jasion EB3, currently listed for $279.99 on Amazon . This electric bike is well-built, eminently portable, affordable, and packed with features, making it a fun and useful accessory for any RV trip. Standout benefits include its front and rear lamps, dual disc brakes, rear suspension, and a large 36-volt battery. A bold LCD presents speed, battery level, and trip information while the bike carries you at speeds of up to 19 miles per hour.

Portable Solar Power Generator

Many campsites provide electrical outlets to enable camper van adventurers to cook, illuminate their vehicles, and recharge devices. However, this isn't always the case, and many of us will find ourselves disconnected from the grid for extended periods when traveling in our camper vans. When this occurs, it is essential to have a backup power source on hand, especially if you rely on an internet connection and a laptop for remote work.

Modern technology offers us a few solutions when power is unavailable, including generators , heavy-duty power banks , and solar panels . Some of the best examples combine several power-generating technologies, so you not only have a large power reserve to last you, but you can continue to top them up and increase your power reserves while they're not in use.

While there are plenty of solutions out there, they vary wildly in price and function. If you have the cash to spend, you might consider a multipurpose generator by Jackery . While the Jackery 2000 Plus costs a hefty $3,299 on Amazon  in the dual solar panel configuration, it has ample storage while fully charged and provides 3,000 watts of energy to power appliances that use a heavy load both inside and outside your camper van.

The Jackery Solar Generator has a shock-resistant and fire-retardant design, is quiet when in use, and charges fully in around two hours using a wall outlet. It includes four universal outlets, one heavy-duty outlet, two USB-C ports, and two USB-A connections for smaller devices. However,  perhaps most noteworthy are the two large solar panels included with the package for trickle charging its reserves while disconnected from a power source.

Portable Bluetooth Speaker

It feels great to escape the rat race and head for the horizon in an RV, but that's not to say that you should also leave all your everyday luxuries behind. It's essential to be able to listen to your favorite e-books, podcasts, and, of course, music while you're away from home, and a portable Bluetooth speaker is the ultimate solution.

Whether you need something that's ultra-compact, waterproof, powerful, affordable, or a combination of these, there is a portable Bluetooth speaker to suit every requirement. The Bose Soundlink Revolve+ is $329 on Amazon and ticks most boxes as an eminently portable, long-lasting, water-resistant solution that produces impressive 360-degree sound.

A chief consideration when buying a portable speaker is its longevity, and the Revolve+ will play for up to 17 hours on a single charge. It has voice command functionality, and with its lantern-shaped design, it is easily placed on a flat surface or hung from its flexible handle. Functions can be accessed using the Bose companion app, and multiple speakers can be linked to create an immersive sound around your campsite.

Bose is known for creating big, detailed sounds from compact devices, so it's worth checking out the range to find the perfect portable Bluetooth speaker to suit your individual requirements. However, seeing as factors like portability, weight, and size aren't such an issue when traveling by camper van, the Bose Soundlink Revolve+ is a good fit for most purposes.

Mobile Wi-Fi Modem

Staying connected with high-speed internet is, for many, an essential component of modern travel, especially if you are able to work while on the move. To this end, there are many solutions available to help you stay online while away from home, not least the ubiquitous Wi-Fi hotspot function on our smartphones. With that said, when traveling in a camper van, the convenience of having always-on wireless connectivity from which you can connect multiple devices, stream television, and make calls is yet another benefit to camping on four wheels.

You can stay connected while on the move with a 5G mobile hotspot modem such as the Netgear Nighthawk M6 , which is priced at $699.99 on Amazon . This handy unit provides Wi-Fi speeds of up to 3.6 GBPS and 5G speeds of up to 2.5 GBPS, making even demanding tasks like gaming, working, and streaming possible simultaneously. Add to this connectivity for up to 32 devices, a 1 Gigabit Ethernet port for direct connection, as well as a USB-C port for fast transfer of data, and its features should be surplus to most day-to-day requirements.

Essentially, for a mobile unit, the Nighthawk M6 features ultra-secure Wi-Fi when using a public connection, so your data is protected at campsites and other communal areas. Wi-Fi settings are easily accessed via its large touchscreen display, but bear in mind that you will need a compatible SIM card and data plan should you choose to purchase a 5G modem.

Rechargeable Lantern

As far as essential camping items are concerned, a good portable lantern should be on everyone's list. Proper illumination is useful when sitting outside after sundown, when walking to bathrooms, and in the event of power failures or generator issues. Modern lanterns can be extremely powerful, waterproof, powered by different sources, and rechargeable, so you can always keep them topped up for emergency use.

Stay illuminated outdoors and indoors with this rechargeable hurricane lantern by AYL for $32.95 on Amazon . It projects 1,800 lumens of brightness and charges via USB. It comprises 46 LEDs, which are more power-efficient, long-lasting, and brighter than their halogen counterpart. Its 4,400mAh battery doubles as a power bank for charging devices in an emergency, making the lantern extra useful in the event of a power outage.

Importantly for any outdoor lantern, this model is water-resistant, and it has three brightness modes and a flashing option, which can help draw attention to you in an emergency or when performing roadside maintenance on your camper van. Another notable feature is its dimming function, whereby you hold down the power button until you reach the ideal brightness, meaning you don't have to have it at its maximum power at all times.

Insulating Blinds 

Depending on how your camper van is configured, you may need to block visibility through the windshield when you're not in transit. This is a good idea, not just from a privacy perspective but also to deter thieves, who may seize the opportunity to survey your vehicle when it's parked.

An insulated blind such as this one for $26.99 on Amazon  is a useful deterrent from prying eyes but also works to reflect heat from your cab in hot weather and, conversely, to keep the cab warm when your heater is running. As anyone who has come back from a day at the beach to find the steering wheel too hot to touch will know, this is a simple and essential accessory to keep you comfortable on the road.

This blind has the capacity to protect side windows as well as the windshield and is attached with a simple velcro strip, making installation quick and easy. It is made from UV-absorbent, reflective polyester, making it sturdy and able to withstand repeated uses. While it may sound obvious, don't forget to measure your windshield before purchasing an insulating blind, as a good fit helps ensure it is at its most effective.

Digital Safe

When you are enjoying a camping trip, you can expect to be away from your campsite and vehicle for long periods. Even in a well-populated area, your camper van is at risk from thieves, as people often travel with expensive gear, making them an easy target to opportunists. A digital safe is a simple and practical solution that can be hidden away in a cupboard and bolted through to offer an extra line of security in keeping your valuables safe.

While a compact safe is inconspicuous and keeps money, passports, jewelry, and other small valuables secure, a larger safe like the Honeywell 6110 -- which costs $69.99 on Amazon  -- can hold a laptop and other devices. This means you can leave your camper van for longer with confidence that your data and expensive items are likely to be there upon your return.

This particular safe is double steel-lined and has a fire-resistant construction, a tamperproof concealed hinge, and a digital combination lock. It comes with a steel tethering cable as an extra deterrent, should you choose not to bolt it down, and a carry handle for portability. With the added peace of mind that a safe affords you, you can go about enjoying your vacation without the daunting threat of theft. This, combined with the convenience of a digital locking system, gives you the reassurance that you can retrieve your items without the need for an additional key.

Read the original article on SlashGear .