Ready for an adventure that blends freedom, comfort, and affordability? Hiring a van is your ticket to exploring stunning coastlines, picturesque countryside, and charming campsites, all on your own terms.
This guide will cover everything you need to know, from budgeting and choosing the perfect vehicle for your group to understanding the rules of wild camping.
We’ll cover how to book, essential driving and living tips, and why Hire2You in Kent is your go-to for the best pricing and round-the-clock roadside assistance. Whether it’s a quick weekend escape or an extended road trip, we’ve got your journey covered.
Key Takeaways
- Campervan and motorhome hire in the UK ranges from budget to luxury options.
- Costs vary depending on vehicle size, season, and rental length.
- A standard UK driving licence covers most campervans under 3.5 tonnes.
- Wild camping rules differ across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
- Planning routes and booking campsites early ensures a smoother trip.
- Hire2You in Kent offers affordable van hire with extras and 24/7 support.
How Much Will It Cost to Hire a Campervan or Motorhome in the UK?
Hiring a campervan or motorhome in the UK typically falls between £50 and £300 per day. The final cost depends on the size of the vehicle, the time of year, and how long you’re renting it for, so you can plan your budget with confidence and compare your options before you book.
This insight gives you a clear picture of the costs involved in hiring a campervan or motorhome in the UK, highlighting the key factors that influence the price.
What Are the Typical Rental Fees for Campervans and Motorhomes?
Here’s a general idea of the daily, weekly, and peak-season rates for common van types across the UK.
| Vehicle Type / Berths | Typical Low‑Season Daily Rate | Typical High‑Season Daily Rate | Approx Weekly Cost (7 nights) |
| 2‑Berth compact campervan | £85‑£100 / day | £150‑£170 / day | £600‑£1,100 |
| 4‑Berth motorhome/ family size | £100‑£150 / day | £180‑£200+ / day | £700‑£1,200+ |
| 6‑Berth motorhome | £110‑£130 / day (Off‑peak) | £200+ / day (Peak summer) | £850‑£1,400+ weekly |
As you can see, larger vehicles naturally come with higher rates. This table helps you start thinking about your budget and how rental duration affects the overall cost.
How Security Deposits and Insurance Affect the Total Cost
When hiring a motorhome or campervan in the UK, it’s important to factor in security deposits and insurance, as these can significantly influence your upfront costs.
While they increase your initial outlay, they provide vital protection against damage, accidents, or theft.
Security Deposit
Most hire companies require a security deposit ranging from £500 to £1,500, usually pre-authorised on a credit or debit card. This is refunded once the vehicle is returned in good condition with no damage or insurance claims.
Basic Insurance (CDW – Collision Damage Waiver)
Standard hire rates typically include basic insurance, but you’ll need to check the excess (the amount you must pay if a claim is made). In the UK, excess levels usually fall between £1,000 and £2,000.
Excess Reduction Options
Many companies offer excess reduction or damage waiver packages to reduce financial risk. For an extra daily fee (commonly £10 to £20 per day), you can lower your excess to as little as £100 to £250, giving you peace of mind on the road.
Some providers also offer optional covers, such as windscreen, tyre, or personal effects insurance, which may be worth considering if you want comprehensive protection.
What Types of Vans Are Best for Camping?
Choosing the right van for camping depends on how many people are travelling, the type of trip you’re planning, and the level of comfort you want.
Campervans
Campervans (2–4 berth) are compact, easier to drive, and ideal for couples or small groups. They usually include a small kitchenette, seating that converts into a bed, and limited storage space. Their smaller size makes them economical on fuel and well-suited for narrow country roads or city breaks.
Motorhomes
Motorhomes (4–6+ berth) are larger and better equipped for families or longer trips. They often feature separate sleeping areas, a full kitchen, a bathroom with a shower, and more storage. While they provide maximum comfort, parking and driving can be more challenging, especially in rural or urban areas.
Converted vans
Converted vans offer flexibility and individuality. Depending on the conversion, they can be as simple as a basic bed and cooking setup or as luxurious as a bespoke motorhome. They’re a good choice if you want something tailored to your budget and style of travel.
What Are the Differences Between Campervans, Motorhomes, and Converted Vans?
Campervans are typically built on a smaller base vehicle (such as a panel van). They are compact, easier to handle, and designed for short trips or weekends away. Amenities are basic but functional, usually including a fold-out bed, small cooking facilities, and sometimes a pop-top roof for extra headroom.
Motorhomes, on the other hand, are purpose-built leisure vehicles with a larger chassis. They come in different sizes (from mid-range to very large) and provide more spacious interiors, fixed beds, larger kitchens, washrooms, and dedicated living areas. They’re ideal for families or anyone wanting a “home on wheels.”
Converted vans are standard vans modified for camping. They can range from budget DIY conversions to high-end professional builds. They’re versatile and often cheaper than motorhomes, but the quality and comfort depend on the conversion.
How Many Berths Do You Need for Your Camping Trip?
When deciding on the number of berths, consider:
- 2-Berth: Perfect for couples who want maximum living and storage space.
- 4-Berth: A good choice for families of three or four, offering a balance between sleeping and living areas.
- 6-Berth: Great for larger families or groups, though the living space per person will be a bit tighter.
Ensuring you have enough berths for everyone means comfortable sleeping arrangements and a more practical interior layout.
Which Amenities Should You Expect in a Hire Van?
Most hire vehicles come equipped with:
- Kitchen Unit: Usually includes a hob, sink, and fridge for preparing meals.
- Sleeping Area: A fold-out bed or fixed bunks with mattresses.
- Heating and Lighting: Diesel or electric heating and interior LED lights for comfort.
- Water System: Fresh and grey water tanks to supply the sink and shower.
These essential amenities are designed to make your self-sufficient camping experience comfortable and enjoyable.
How to Choose a Pet-Friendly Campervan or Motorhome
If you’re planning to travel with your furry friends, keep these points in mind:
- Pet-Policy Confirmation: Double-check if there are any extra fees or restrictions on pet weight.
- Space Allocation: Make sure there’s enough room for your pet’s bed and secure storage for their belongings.
- Ventilation and Flooring: Look for vans with good airflow and easy-to-clean surfaces.
By considering these details, you can ensure a safe and pleasant journey for your four-legged family members.
Legal Requirements and Wild Camping Rules for Campervans in the UK
When hiring a campervan in the UK, staying on the right side of driving licence regulations, wild camping laws, and environmental guidelines is essential.
Driving Licence Regulation
Most hire companies allow you to drive campervans up to 3.5 tonnes, or those with up to four berths, using a standard UK Category B driving licence. You will usually need to be at least 21 years old, though some companies set the minimum at 23 or 25, and most insist on at least two years’ driving experience.
If you wish to hire a motorhome weighing more than 3.5 tonnes, you will need a Category C1 licence, which is usually held by drivers who passed their test before 1997.
Hire providers always ask for your licence details at the time of booking and may also require proof of address and a DVLA licence check code. Meeting these conditions ensures you are legally covered to drive the vehicle throughout your trip.
Camping in Campervans in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland
The rules around wild camping vary across the UK. In England and Wales, wild camping is generally not permitted on private land unless you have explicit permission from the landowner.
Scotland offers more flexibility under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, which allows wild camping provided you act responsibly and respect the environment, though it is worth noting that this code is more applicable to tents than to motor vehicles.
In Northern Ireland, the rules are similar to those in England, requiring you to obtain landowner consent before camping overnight outside of official sites. Recognised campsites or designated motorhome stopovers are the simplest and safest option wherever you travel.
Leave No Trace Principles for Responsible Van Camping
Responsible camping is about minimising your impact on the natural environment. The Leave No Trace principles are designed to guide you in doing this effectively. Planning ahead and choosing designated campsites wherever possible reduces the risk of causing damage to fragile landscapes.
Waste must be disposed of properly using official facilities or portable waste tanks, and open fires should be avoided unless there are designated fire pits; instead, portable stoves are recommended. Respecting wildlife and landowners is essential, which means keeping a safe distance from animals, avoiding disruption to natural habitats, and always seeking permission before staying on private land.
Following these principles helps to preserve natural spaces for future generations and ensures that van camping remains both enjoyable and sustainable.
How to Book and Prepare for Hiring a Van for Camping
When you realise you don’t need the full comforts of a campervan or motorhome, choosing the right van for your adventure can still make all the difference. Whether you are planning to load up gear, bikes, or camping supplies, or simply need reliable transport between campsites, looking at payload, overall height, and fuel economy will help you pick the correct model.
Why Choose Hire2You for Van Hire in Kent?
Hire2You makes van rental simple, affordable, and stress-free. Unlike many hire companies, there’s no deposit and no credit checks, so you can get on the road quickly without the usual paperwork.
Our fleet covers everything from Short-Wheel-Base Vans for minimal loads to Luton Vans, Low Loaders, and Dropside Flatbeds for larger or heavier loads. Each van is regularly serviced and well-maintained, so you won’t have to worry about breakdowns.
Plus, if your hire lasts three days or more, we offer free drop-off and collection, transparent pricing, and absolutely, no hidden fees, so you know what to expect when booking.
The Extras That Set Us Apart
At Hire2You, you’ll find more than just good vans. We include many of the useful extras others charge for, such as sack-barrows, hi-viz vests, ratchet straps, and a European travel pack. These pieces of kit reduce hassle during your trip.
Our help doesn’t stop when you pick up the keys. We are always available to provide 24/7 support.
What Should You Pack for a Campervan Camping Trip?
Don’t forget these camping essentials:
- Kitchenware: Pack portable pans, utensils, and dishcloths.
- Bedding and Linens: Bring pillows, sleeping bags, or sheets.
- Clothing Layers: Include waterproofs, warm layers, and sturdy footwear.
- First Aid and Tools: A basic medical kit, torch, and multi-tool are always handy.
Having the right gear makes a huge difference to your comfort, safety, and ability to be self-sufficient on the road.
How to Plan a Road Trip from Kent with Your Hire Van
Kent is an excellent base for a road trip, offering quick access to coastal scenery, historic landmarks, and national parks across southern England.
A popular South Coast Loop could take you from Dover Castle and the White Cliffs of Dover, westward to the sandy stretches of Camber Sands, and further along to the New Forest, where you’ll find well-equipped campsites.
For a South-West Circuit, you might head into Dorset to explore the Jurassic Coast, continue across Devon with stops in Dartmoor National Park, and finish in Cornwall, where rugged coastlines and quaint fishing villages make for memorable stops.
Alternatively, an Eastern England Tour could take you through the Norfolk Broads, with its waterways and wildlife, the Suffolk Coast’s peaceful beaches, and Essex’s traditional seaside towns.
Whichever route you choose, planning your journey in advance, checking road suitability for campervans, and booking campsites will help make your adventure smooth, safe, and enjoyable.
Vehicle Checks You Should Perform Before Your Trip
Before you hit the road, make sure to check the van carefully: fluid levels, lights, tyres, and brakes should all be in good condition. Confirm that any straps, tools, or extras you may need are included, and don’t forget to test any lift-gates or tail-lifts if your van has them.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiring a Van for Camping
We understand that van camping can bring up common questions about costs, legalities, and requirements, so we’re here to help you prepare and feel confident on the road.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Campervan in the UK?
Typically, hiring a campervan in the UK costs between £60 and £150 per day during the low season. This can increase to £100–£250 daily in peak summer months, depending on the number of berths and the insurance options included.
Is Wild Camping Legal in a Campervan in the UK?
Generally, wild camping in a campervan is not permitted without permission in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. In Scotland, it is allowed under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, provided you adhere to Leave No Trace principles.
What Do You Need to Hire a Campervan in the UK?
To hire a campervan, you’ll need a valid UK Category B driving licence, be at least 21 years old (often 25 for larger vehicles), have at least two years of driving experience, and possess a major credit card for the security deposit.
How Do You Use Campervan Amenities Like Kitchen, Shower, and Toilet?
Operating your onboard facilities is straightforward:
- Kitchen: Fully open gas valves before igniting the hob, and always monitor the flame.
- Shower: Use the hot water system pump and close the ventilation to keep the heat in.
- Toilet: Use biodegradable cassettes and empty them only at designated disposal points.
Understanding how each system works will ensure you use your amenities efficiently and safely.
How Should You Dispose of Waste Responsibly While Camping?
Proper waste management is essential:
- Grey Water: Empty only into designated drains at campsites.
- Chemical Toilet Waste: Use official disposal stations or on-site facilities.
- General Rubbish: Pack out any non-recyclables and dispose of them in appropriate bins.
Responsible disposal helps keep our natural sites clean and aligns with the Leave No Trace principles.
What Is Included When You Hire a Campervan?
Standard inclusions usually cover: comprehensive insurance with a specified excess, 24/7 breakdown cover, basic kitchen and bedding equipment, a set mileage allowance, and a detailed handover briefing.
Conclusion
Hiring a van for camping in the UK is one of the most flexible and affordable ways to explore the country’s coasts, countryside, and cultural landmarks. By understanding the costs, legal requirements, and the types of vehicles available, you can plan with confidence and enjoy a trip that suits your budget and lifestyle.
Whether you choose a compact campervan, a spacious motorhome, or a practical hire van from Hire2You, careful preparation ensures your journey will be safe, comfortable, and memorable.