Campervan Daily Rate: What You Really Pay to Rent One in the UK

When you hear campervan daily rate, the price you pay to rent a motorhome for one day, typically including basic insurance and limited mileage. Also known as camper van hire cost, it’s the starting point for planning your UK road trip—but it’s rarely the whole story. Most people assume the quoted price is what they’ll pay, but that’s where things get tricky. A £60-a-day campervan might look like a steal until you add on insurance upgrades, cleaning fees, or mandatory mileage overages. The camper van rental cost, the total amount you spend over your trip, including extras beyond the base daily rate can easily jump 30-50% by the time you sign the contract.

What drives those price differences? It’s not just the size of the van. A compact Class B motorhome with a pop-up roof and portable toilet will cost less than a fully-equipped Class C with a bathroom, kitchen, and heating system. Season matters too—summer rates in Cornwall or the Lake District can be double what you’d pay in November. And don’t forget UK campervan rental, the system of hiring motorhomes across Britain, which varies by company, location, and demand. Some providers include unlimited mileage, others charge per mile over 100. Some include roadside assistance, others make you pay extra. One company might throw in a camping chair and kettle; another might charge you £15 for a gas cylinder.

There’s no single answer to what a campervan daily rate should be because it depends on what you’re getting. If you’re renting for a weekend in April, you might find a basic model for £50-£70. In July, the same van could cost £120. A luxury model with a shower and full kitchen? That’s £150-£250 a day, even off-season. The key is to compare apples to apples: check what’s included, read the fine print on insurance, and ask about hidden fees before you book. Most people don’t realize that booking directly through the owner (not a third-party site) can save you 10-20% and give you more flexibility.

And then there’s the campervan rental budget, the total amount you plan to spend on your trip, including fuel, campsites, food, and extras. The daily rate is just one piece. Fuel alone can cost £40-£80 a day depending on your route and van efficiency. Campsite fees range from £15 for basic pitches to £50+ for premium spots with showers and electricity. You’ll need to factor in groceries, parking, and maybe even a one-way drop-off fee if you’re not returning to the same location. A £70-a-day van can turn into a £1,000 trip fast if you’re not planning ahead.

That’s why the posts below aren’t just about prices—they’re about smart choices. You’ll find real breakdowns of what you’re actually paying, how to spot hidden costs, and where to find the best deals without sacrificing comfort. Whether you’re renting for the first time or you’ve been hitting the road for years, you’ll see what others have learned the hard way—and how to avoid the same mistakes.