Driving a camper van to the Scottish Highlands is a wonderful way of exploring the amazing landscapes and immersing yourself in the region’s abundant natural beauty. The following are important considerations and useful tips for your trip:
Planning and Preparation:
Research campsites which will accommodate camper vans and then spend some time planning your route in advance. The Scottish Highlands offer a great many campsites, both managed sites with all the facilities and unofficial wild camping spots if you fancy really getting back to nature. Check if any particular permits or passes are needed for certain areas or activities. Make sure you take your wet weather gear and boots with you due to the unpredictable Scottish weather, and include warm clothing and sturdy footwear if you’re planning on climbing the mountains.
Campervan Kit: Pack all the essentials into your campervan and make sure you have prepared your vehicle for a potentially long journey. Ensure that your vehicle is suitable for the occasionally rough terrain and has all the required amenities for your adventure.
Inspect your campervan thoroughly before setting off, checking the tyres and fluid levels. Take spare oil and water just in case.
Driving and Roads: Familiarize yourself with the driving regulations you’ll need to adhere to whilst in Scotland, including road signs, road speed limits, and any rules that might be specific to campervans. As with most rural locations, there are a great many very narrow, winding country roads, particularly in mountainous areas. Be prepared to encounter wild animals or livestock on the roads.
To get the most out of a camper van trip to the Scottish Highlands, it is essential to plan for frequent stops along the way to take in the amazing scenery. Also, be prepared for lots of stops to allow other vehicles to pass on single-track roads as the traffic will be heavy, especially during peak tourist season.
Campsite Options: Research which campsites suit your preferences and, of course, will accommodate camper vans, whether you prefer wild camping or campsites with facilities such as electricity, water, and waste disposal. Some of the most popular campsites in the Scottish Highlands include Loch Ness Shores Camping and Caravanning Club Site, Glen Nevis Camping and Caravan Park, and Torvaig Campsite on the Isle of Skye.
Wild Camping: The Scottish highlands have a “right to roam” policy, which means that camping is allowed on most unenclosed land, and parking up in a secluded spot in your camper van should be absolutely fine in most cases. However, certain protected or conservation areas may have some restrictions, so do your research into local guidelines before setting up camp.
It’s important to follow “Leave No Trace” principles, meaning you should leave your campsite as you found it, minimize any impact you may have on the environment, and respect local communities.
Essential Supplies: Stock your campervan up on high energy, low storage space food, water, and other essential supplies before embarking on your journey. Many of the more remote spots in the Scottish Highlands will have very limited grocery shopping opportunities.
Taking a portable camping stove or portable barbeque is always a great idea, so that you’re not limited to cooking in your campervan, but don’t forget the cooking utensils and camping equipment like chairs and a table, to really enhance your outdoor experience.
Safety Considerations When Touring The Scottish Highlands In Your Campervan: Make sure that you friends and family know about your travel plans, including your intended route, stopping points and your date of return home.
Check the weather forecast daily and go prepared for rapidly and unexpectedly changing conditions. Pack a comprehensive first-aid kit into your campervan and familiarize yourself with basic first-aid techniques.
Midges (small flying insects)are rampant in the Scottish Highlands during the summer months so make sure to go armed with some insect repellent. Make sure to enjoy the journey and take your time to get the most benefit from the breath-taking landscape, ancient sites of historical significance and charming villages of the Scottish Highlands.
Be respectful to the local environment and communities, and have a brilliant trip!