Through the Chunnel with a motorhome
Starting Your European Road Trip: Travelling to France with a Camper via the Channel Tunnel
Travelling to Europe by motorhome
Travelling to Europe in a camper often means looking for the quickest and most comfortable route. A popular choice is using the Channel Tunnel. This route involves driving your camper onto a train in Folkestone. The train then travels through the Channel Tunnel, an underwater tunnel connecting England with France. Remarkably, the journey through the tunnel takes just about 35 minutes, after which you arrive in Calais, France.
This mode of travel is efficient and avoids the longer ferry crossings. The Channel Tunnel is an impressive feat of engineering, running under the Channel to offer a quick link between the UK and mainland Europe. It's particularly convenient for those travelling with vehicles like campers, as it allows for a swift crossing with the vehicle.
Rules for Travelling with a Camper
Before booking, it's wise to read through the rules below carefully:
- Height Restrictions: Vehicles taller than 1.85 meters must be placed on a single deck.
- LPG Vehicles Not Allowed: Vehicles running on LPG are not permitted in the Channel Tunnel.
- Gas Bottle Restrictions: A maximum of 47 kg per gas bottle or multiple bottles with a total weight of no more than 50 kg, for domestic use only.
- Pets Allowed: but must comply with UK government requirements, including prior checks and necessary paperwork. Read all about travelling with pets through the Channel Tunnel here.
- Reisdocumenten: Geldig paspoort en ingevulde API (Advance Passenger Information) vereist.
If it's not possible to comply with any of these rules, then travelling by ferry offers a great alternative!
Alternative: What's Cheaper, Eurotunnel or Ferry?
While the Channel Tunnel offers the fastest option, it's definitely worth considering a ferry trip. The travel time often doesn't differ much from the Channel Tunnel route, sometimes just an extra half hour, and the costs are generally lower. Additionally, the ferry trip is considered relaxing. For instance, during the crossing to France, you can freely walk around the ferry, eat, and shop tax-free on board.
Currently, the most economical option is the route from Harwich to Hoek van Holland with Stena Line. Stena Line has an attractive offer where you can travel with your camper at the same rate as a car on the ferry.
If you prefer travelling via Dover, then the Dover to Calais route with DFDS is also a good choice. On this route, you also receive a 15% discount when travelling with a camper or caravan.
Travelling to the Netherlands? There are also direct ferries sailing to Amsterdam or Rotterdam. The Newcastle to IJmuiden route with DFDS is a good choice. Currently, you can even travel with your camper on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday at the car rate.
- Find out more about whether the Channel Tunnel or ferry is the best choice for you.
Content
Chunnel.co.uk is your comprehensive guide for traveling to England by train through the Channel Tunnel. Whether you're traveling by car, on foot, or simply seeking current information, we provide all the essential details for a smooth crossing via the Channel Tunnel. Learn more about Eurostar train services, the Shuttle for vehicles, current prices, and alternatives such as ferries.
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