CAMPERVAN TOURING
CRUISIN' IN A CAMPERVAN Ten Top Tips for Free-Wheeling Touring Campervan travel has taken off in recent years as a way to explore the Highlands and Islands. With all of Scotland to explore and a comfy bed in the back, the appeal is clear. However, rural communities are understandably nervous about this upward trend, as many rely on traditional tourism for their income. So, with guidance from Andy McCluskey from Open Road Scotland and Rob Dawkins from Big Sky Campers, Ailsa Sheldon outlines ten tips to help you make the most of your campervan adventure and ensure you are a considerate, welcome visitor to the west coast and islands
1.
Plan ahead. While spontaneity is part of the joy of a camper holiday, travelling in rural Scotland does require some forward planning. Know where your next stop is for fuel and food, where waste disposal sites are, and definitely book ferries in advance – particularly in summer. Before your trip, investigate your options – remember there is much more to Scotland than Skye and the North Coast 500 (NC500).
2.
Be curious. Be open to changing your plans, and listen to local recommendations. Keep your eyes peeled for posters for Highland games, concerts and other local events that might be taking place. In many places you’ll find qualified guides offering wildlife walks or boat trips, even sailing and kayak lessons. Take advantage of these experts to go deeper and learn more about the place you’re visiting. 14 The Guide to Scotland’s Islands
3.
Learn the rules of the roads. Rural Scotland has many narrow single-track roads that require you to use passing places. The driver closest to the passing place should pull in if the space is on their left, if the space is on the right stop beside it allowing the approaching driver to safely drive around. Practice reversing your vehicle before you have to do it under pressure. Many companies will give you a lesson before you set out. On two-way roads you must let other vehicles pass, particularly if you are driving under the speed limit. You may be enjoying the views but accidentally holding up local commuters, emergency workers or people trying to catch a ferry. Never travel in convoy with other campervans – passing places are designed for one vehicle and travelling in convoy puts others at risk. The Campervan and Motorhome Professional Association (CAMPA) has some useful demonstration videos for safe campervan driving.
