Traveling Ireland by campervan is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the country’s dramatic coastline, rolling green hills, historic villages, and famously friendly pubs. With short driving distances, scenic coastal routes, and hundreds of campsites, Ireland is incredibly well suited to campervan travel.
This complete guide to campervan Ireland travel covers everything you need to know — from costs and routes to camping rules, seasons, and practical driving tips — so you can plan the perfect Irish road trip.
Why Travel Ireland by Campervan?
A campervan gives you the freedom to explore Ireland beyond the big cities and tourist buses.
Top Reasons to Choose a Campervan in Ireland
- Flexibility – Change plans easily based on weather or local recommendations
- Scenic overnight stays – Coastal views, countryside, and mountains
- Cost control – Combine transport and accommodation
- Access remote areas – Perfect for the west coast and rural regions
- Slow travel – Ireland is best enjoyed at an unhurried pace
Ireland’s compact size means you’re never far from your next highlight — ideal for campervan travel.
How Much Does a Campervan Cost in Ireland?
Campervan rental prices in Ireland depend on season, vehicle size, and rental length.
Average Campervan Rental Costs
- Low season (Nov–Mar): €70–€120 per day
- Shoulder season (Apr, Oct): €100–€150 per day
- High season (May–Sep): €140–€220+ per day
Typical Inclusions
- Bed & mattress
- Cooking equipment
- Insurance (with excess)
- Mileage allowance
- Gas bottle
Extra Costs to Budget For
- Campsites: €15–€30 per night
- Fuel: €1.70–€2.00 per liter
- Food & groceries
- Optional extras (bedding, outdoor furniture, Wi-Fi)
💡 Booking early for summer is essential — availability is limited.
Is Campervan Camping Legal in Ireland?
This is one of the most important things to understand when planning campervan Ireland travel.
Wild Camping Rules in Ireland
- Officially: Wild camping in campervans is not legal without landowner permission
- In practice: Tolerance varies by region
- Coastal and tourist hotspots are increasingly strict
What’s Allowed
✔ Staying at registered campsites
✔ Using campervan parks and serviced stopovers
✔ Parking overnight with explicit permission
What to Avoid
✘ Sleeping in car parks without permission
✘ Staying overnight on beaches or protected land
✘ Blocking gates, farm roads, or passing places
Ireland has an expanding network of motorhome stopovers, making legal overnight stays much easier than before.
Best Time to Travel Ireland by Campervan
Ireland’s weather is mild year-round, but conditions change quickly.
Best Months: May to September
- Longer daylight hours
- Better campsite availability
- Milder temperatures
- Busiest travel period
Shoulder Season: April & October
- Fewer crowds
- Lower rental prices
- Still good driving conditions
- Shorter days
Winter: November to March
- Cheapest rentals
- Limited campsites open
- Short daylight hours
- More rain and wind
🚐 First-time campervan travelers should aim for May–September.
Best Campervan Routes in Ireland
1. Wild Atlantic Way
- Over 2,500 km of coastline
- Ireland’s most famous road trip
- Cliffs, beaches, islands, and villages
- Perfect for 7–14+ days
2. Ring of Kerry
- Compact and scenic
- Ideal for shorter trips
- Mountains, lakes, coastal views
- Works well in 3–5 days
3. Causeway Coastal Route
- Northern coastline
- Dramatic cliffs and castles
- Can be combined with Donegal
4. Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands
- Inland lakes and rivers
- Quiet roads and fewer tourists
- Slower, more relaxed travel
Campervan vs Motorhome in Ireland
| Campervan | Motorhome |
|---|---|
| Easier on narrow roads | More interior space |
| Cheaper | More expensive |
| Better for couples | Better for families |
| Easier parking | Can be restrictive |
Ireland’s narrow rural roads make campervans the most popular choice.
Driving a Campervan in Ireland: What to Know
- Drive on the left-hand side
- Rural roads can be very narrow
- Expect farm traffic and blind bends
- Take it slow — distances are short
- Always pull in to let faster traffic pass
🛑 Speed limits are posted in km/h, but road conditions matter more than the number.
What to Pack for a Campervan Trip in Ireland
- Waterproof jacket (non-negotiable)
- Layers for changing weather
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Power adapter (Type G)
- Headlamp or torch
- Reusable grocery bags
Is a Campervan Worth It in Ireland?
For most travelers, yes.
A campervan in Ireland offers:
- Freedom to explore rural areas
- Cost-effective accommodation
- Immersion in landscapes and local life
- A relaxed, flexible travel style
If you want to see more than just Dublin and day tours, Ireland by campervan is an excellent choice.
Final Thoughts: Campervan Ireland Travel
Ireland rewards travelers who slow down — and a campervan is the perfect way to do that. From windswept cliffs to cozy campsites near small villages, traveling Ireland by campervan lets you experience the country on your own terms.
If you’re researching campervan Ireland, you’re planning one of Europe’s most enjoyable road trips.