Exploring the Island of Ireland: Holidaying in a Campervan across Ireland

Ireland is a land of winding country roads, ancient castles, rugged coastlines, and warm welcomes. And there’s no better way to experience it all than by campervan. With your home on wheels, you can chase rainbows across the countryside, find hidden coves, and explore —all at your own pace.

Hiring a campervan to tour Ireland is a fantastic choice—and there are plenty of reliable options to suit your travel style, whether you’re after something compact for two or a family-sized motorhome.  There are many companies offering campervans and motorhomes for hire.  Make sure you chose a good reputable company.

Here is our selection of reputable companies to hire a campervan/motorhome for a few nights or longer stays

Bunk Campers – one of the largest campervan and motorhome rental companies, offering affordable and stylish campervans and motorhomes for hire from their depots across the UK & Ireland.  You can pick up your campervan in Ireland or Scotland and England and bring it to Ireland.  They also have pet-friendly units available.  Bunk Campers has a number of great offers on their website.

Cara Motorhomes – This is a family run business operating for over 30 years.  They offer rental from their depots in Limerick and Dublin.  Their range of quality vehicles includes compact models like the Sunligth V69 to family friendly options like the Dethleffs Trend. If you yet get the bug after hiring a motorhome their showroom in Limerick has a large selection of new and used motorhomes for sale.

Causeway Campers – offering modern 2, 3, 4, 6 & 7 berth Campervans and Motorhomes. Causeway Campers also offer 8 collection points around the Island of Ireland including Dublin and Belfast Airports.  They offer a meet and great with a detailed handover to all customers.

Cookies Campers – Family-owned Irish business with campervans just the right size for Irish roads but still offering plenty of space and style.  All campervans are automatic transmission.  All their vans come with complimentary tea & coffee as well toilet chemicals and toilet roll!

Thompson Leisure – TLL Rent has a selection of motorhomes/campervans to hire.  You can browse their selection on their website.  Some of their rental models come with incredibly convenient motorhome accessories like bike racks, tvs and a kitchen kit that includes pots, pans and cutlery.  They also have a large range of new and used motorhomes to buy, so it might be worth trying before buying!

West Coast Campervans – a family-run, high-quality, affordable campervan rental company based in Belleek, Co. Fermanagh.  They offer comfortable campervans, recreational vehicles (RVs) and motorhomes, with a state-of-the-art fleet of 2 berth, 4 berth, 6 berth and even Classic VW campers!  They offer 3 service locations – Belleek, Newry and Dublin.

Tips before you make your decision.

1. Compare Prices: While cost is a significant factor, it’s essential to consider the overall value for money. Compare prices among different rental companies, taking into account the type of vehicle, included amenities, and any additional fees.
2. Check Rental Terms and Conditions: Carefully review the terms and conditions of each rental company. Pay attention to details such as insurance coverage, mileage policies, fuel requirements, and any additional fees. Understanding the terms beforehand will help you avoid surprises during your trip.
3. Customer Support and Assistance: Choose a rental company that provides excellent customer support. In case of any issues during your journey, having responsive and helpful support can make a significant difference. Check if the company has a 24/7 helpline for emergencies.
4. Security Deposit and Insurance: Understand the security deposit requirements and the insurance coverage provided by the rental company. A transparent and reasonable security deposit policy, coupled with comprehensive insurance, ensures you are adequately covered in case of unforeseen incidents.

1. Driver’s Licence requirements: Don’t forget to bring your Driver’s Licence with you. You will also need to present the licence for any other named drivers.  If you have a standard car license (B) this entitles you to drive any vehicle up to 3.5 tonnes. This includes most family campervans low profiles and some of the more compact A Class motorhomes on the market.  However larger campervans for hire from 3.5 tonnes to 7.5 tonnes require the next step up, a (C1) license. You should bear in mind that once you drive a C1 category vehicle, rules and regulations vary. This includes speed limits and weight restrictions in some areas and on certain bridges

There are over 150 top quality caravan & camping sites throughout the Island of Ireland to park up for a few nights.  All Camping Ireland member sites have been quality inspected and approved by the relevant authority.  They offer safe and secure places to overnight on your tour around Ireland with quality on-site facilities.  Most offer electric hook-up to all pitches as well as showers, toilets and water.  You will be able to empty your waste water and fill-up with fresh water.  Many sites also have onsite laundry facilities.

Why a Campervan is Perfect for Ireland

1. Freedom to Roam
   Ireland is compact but incredibly diverse. One minute you’re passing through green pastures with grazing sheep, the next you’re staring out over sea cliffs. A campervan lets you go off the beaten path—no rigid schedules, just spontaneous adventures.
2. Wake Up to Breathtaking Views
   Imagine opening your van door to the Cliffs of Moher, the Dingle Peninsula, or the still waters of Connemara. Campsites are located in some of Ireland’s most scenic areas, letting you live inside the postcard.
3. The Weather? No Problem
   Let’s be honest—Ireland can be rainy. But in a campervan, you’re warm, dry, and snug. You can enjoy a cup of tea while watching the weather roll across the hills from your window, then set off when the skies clear.
4. Local Charm in Every Village
   Small towns like Doolin, Clonakilty, or Bushmills are full of life, music, and character. With a campervan, you can linger in places others rush past.

Top Irish Routes for Campervans

• The Wild Atlantic Way: Over 2,500km of coastal magic from Donegal to West Cork. Think dramatic cliffs, surf beaches, and seafood towns.
• The Ring of Kerry: A circular route through County Kerry’s scenic heart—ideal for history, lakes, and mountain views.
• The Causeway Coastal Route (Northern Ireland): A spectacular drive past Game of Thrones locations, rope bridges, and the Giant’s Causeway.
• Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands: Explore lesser-known gems like Lough Derg or the River Shannon, perfect for a quieter, rural escape.
• Ireland’s Ancient East: Wander through 5,000 years of history stretching from Dublin and East of the River Shannon to Cork and eastwards to Waterford, Kilkenny, Wexford and Wicklow.

Campervan Tips for Ireland

• Mind the Roads: Irish roads can be narrow so take your time
• Book Sites in Advance (Summer): From June to August, popular campsites fill up fast—
• Support Local: Stop at farm shops, traditional pubs, and small attractions—you’ll get a more authentic experience and help the local economy.

Thinking of buying a motorhome?

You’ve hired the campervan, toured your favourite spots and fell in love with the experience, and now you want to invest in a motorhome/campervan.  Do your research before you buy. Check out the top dealers where you can view a range of quality new and used units, take a test drive and speak to the experts.  It is always worth dealing with the experts as you can be assured of reliable service as well as great after-sales

1. Narrow down your search and choose the right vehicle to suit your needs
2. Make sure the layout suits you
3. Compare prices
4. Check out the warranty being offered
5. Make sure you deal with a reputable company with years of experience.

Check out our list of dealers offering new and used motorhomes/campervans for sales.

Anchor Point Motorhomes – located in Birdhill, Co. Tipperary has one of the largest collections of new and second-hand motorhomes/campervans in Ireland.  Celebrating 25 years in business, this family run company are committed to supplying their customers with the best layout to match individual lifestyles.  They also offer an excellent after-sales service.

Cara Motorhomes – located in Newcastle West, Co. Limerick.  Their showroom displays a large range of new and used motorhomes and their dedicated service centre offers an extensive range of accessories and parts with a full repair and fitting service.

Thompson Leisure – located in Dromore, County Down has one of the most impressive collections of both new and used motorhomes, small campers and van conversions, including their own VW Campers.  They are dedicated to matching customers with the right motorhome that perfectly suits their needs.

Final Thoughts

Holidaying in a campervan in Ireland is about more than ticking off sights—it’s about slowing down, connecting with nature, and discovering the soul of the island. It’s the craic with locals in a roadside pub, the sheep traffic jam in the morning, and the sound of trad music drifting into the evening air.

So pack a raincoat, charge your camera, and hit the road. Ireland is waiting—wild, welcoming, and endlessly wonderful.

Camping Ireland has so much information to help you plan your campervan trip away.  The website is very user-friendly and has a number of great features which makes it very easy to navigate.  You can add filters to your selection.  This will allow you to get information on parks that are specific to your needs.

You can now filter for sites as follows:

Holiday type – beach holiday, countryside, family-friendly, dog friendly, etc.

Facilities – beach nearby, playground, games room, shop, etc.

County

Region – Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland’s Ancient East, Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, Dublin or Northern Ireland

Also, many sites are now offering online booking which will help you secure your pitch at the click of a button.

Whatever you want Camping Ireland has something to suit everyone.  Enjoy the independence and flexibility that a campervan holiday in Ireland can offer in quality approved sites.  We look forward to welcoming you to Ireland’s outdoor living.