Our Comprehensive Guide: Everything You Need to Know About Renting a Motorhome in Scotland

Rugged glens, stunning lochs and ancient castles all invite you to explore Scotland at your own pace. Our beautiful country is perfect for road trips – and if owning a leisure vehicle’s not quite the thing for you, then hiring a motorhome is a convenient and affordable option. Combining the comfort of home with the freedom to roam, a motorhome provides you with one of the best ways to immerse yourself in Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’ve decided you fancy tracing the North Coast 500 or want to wind through the Highlands, hiring a motorhome from Dicksons of Perth means you can discover Scotland on your terms.

Dicksons of Perth is ideally situated for launching yourself into Scotland’s most scenic routes. Our modern fleet of motorhomes, excellent customer service and flexible hire options make us the standout choice when you’re looking to get on the road, whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-time explorer. In this edition of the Dicksons blog we’ll take you right through everything you need to know about motorhome hire in Scotland, from choosing the right vehicle for your requirements to practical tips for the road.

Why Hire a Motorhome For a Scottish Adventure?

It’s all about the freedom! There’s a level of flexibility to hiring a motorhome that’s very hard to match with traditional travel. With a motorhome, you won’t be tied to hotel bookings or public transport timetables, free to move about more or less as and when you please. Travelling in a motorhome also means you’ll have all your essentials with you at all times. Modern motorhomes come equipped with kitchens, bathrooms, and comfortable sleeping areas, so you can relax and enjoy the journey without sacrificing comfort. It’s also an incredibly cost-effective way to explore Scotland, as it combines your accommodation and transport into one.

The Motorhome Hire Experience at Dicksons

We’ve built a solid reputation for providing high-quality motorhome hire in Scotland, with our customers as the focus. We offer a range of quality motorhomes that can match different needs and number of passengers. Couples, for instance, might decide it’s best to opt for a cosy two-berth model, while families and larger groups of friends can select from our four or six-berth options. All the motorhomes we have available for hire are modern, well-maintained and fully equipped. They contain all the features you need for a comfortable trip – comfortable bedding, a well-kitted kitchen, bathroom facilities, heating and even entertainment systems.

Booking to hire one of our motorhomes is very straightforward, designed to make the process as easy and enjoyable as possible. You can browse the available models on our website, even checking their real-time availability, and can secure your booking with an online payment. When you arrive at Dicksons to collect your motorhome, our expert team will give you a full walkthrough to make sure you’re comfortable with how everything works before you hit the road.

Pet-Friendly Motorhome Hire Options

If you’ve got a dog, then you’re definitely going to want them on holiday with you – all those fantastic opportunities for walkies! We’re pleased to say that one of the standout features of our hire service is the availability of pet-friendly motorhomes at Dicksons. Travelling with your pet in a Dicksons hire motorhome means you don’t need to worry about arranging pet sitters or navigating dog-friendly accommodation. These models have your pet’s comfort in mind and include secure spaces for your dog to travel safely and dedicated sleeping areas, as well as easy-to-clean surfaces.

Airport Collection

Usually, Dicksons offers an airport collection service to make the start of your adventure as smooth as possible. You can fly into Scotland, and be collected from major airports including Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Dundee or Inverness. This service eliminates the hassle of arranging separate transport to our Perth base to collect your motorhome (which will be fully prepared and ready to go). After a quick orientation, you’ll be free to hit the road and begin your journey without delay. Although this facility is currently ‘on pause’, you can contact us for more information about airport collection.

Practical Motorhome Hire Tips

Driving a motorhome in Scotland is straightforward, but there are certainly a few things to keep in mind. First, remember that many of Scotland’s rural roads are narrow with passing places, so it’s important to drive carefully and be prepared to reverse if needed. Stick to designated campsites and parking spots and be respectful of communities and the environment.

Packing for a motorhome trip requires a bit of planning. Bring warm clothing, as the weather in Scotland can be unpredictable, even during the summer. A good road map is essential since phone signals can sometimes be weak in remote areas. Also, consider bringing a power bank and extra fuel for longer stretches of road.

Scotland in a Motorhome

Scotland rewards slow travel. You could easily drive from one end to the other in a few days, but the real magic lies in taking your time. Meander through some of the spectacular scenery and fantastic places along each of the key routes. Make sure you take your time to really relax.

• North Coast 500: The NC500 is a 500-mile loop around Scotland’s northernmost coastline, and is a popular route for motorhome travellers. There are dramatic cliffside views, ancient castles and charming villages along the way, with plenty of parking spots and designated motorhome stops, making it ideal for first-time travellers.
• Scottish Highlands: This routeoffers a more rugged experience, with winding single-track roads, remote glens and misty mountain peaks. Must-see spots include Glencoe, Loch Ness (monster hunting, perhaps) and the Isle of Skye. Many motorhome travellers also take the ferry over to explore the Outer Hebrides, where white sand beaches and turquoise waters make for a striking contrast to the mainland’s darker landscapes.
• Edinburgh / Glasgow: If you prefer a blend of culture and nature, start your trip inEdinburgh or Glasgow, Scotland’s two major cities. After exploring the rich history and vibrant nightlife, head into the countryside for a more peaceful experience.
• Megalithic culture: Scotland is steeped in prehistory, which means the landscape is rich with megalithic sites – in other words, standing stones, cairns and barrows that have stood the test of time. Dot-to-dotting these can be a great way to experience an exciting and unorthodox route through Scotland.
• Film locations: Scotland is rich with filmmaking heritage, and there are many locations and sites worth visiting. From the urban and country places used in Trainspotting, through to the magnificence of locations from the James Bond films, and from the village and beach of Local Hero to the cliff-top and spooky towns of The Wicker Man. A motorhome hire road trip through movies!

Exploring Scotland in a motorhome you’ve hired is about more than just convenience – it’s about experiencing the country’s raw beauty on your own terms, in a way that’s convenient and affordable too. Dicksons of Perth makes the motorhome hire experience accessible and stress-free with a modern fleet, friendly service and thoughtful extras. If you’re ready to explore Scotland’s remote beaches, ancient castles, and winding mountain roads, start your journey with Dicksons of Perth.

Terms and Conditions

There are terms and conditions to motorhome hire in Scotland, at Dicksons of Perth. Drivers must be between 25 and 70 years old and have held a valid UK or international driving licence for at least two years. A refundable security deposit (usually around £1,000) is required upon collection of the motorhome. Insurance for one driver and breakdown cover are included in the hire cost. Unlimited mileage within the UK is also standard, so you won’t have to worry about tracking your distance. Additional drivers and extras, such as bike racks or outdoor furniture, can be added for an extra charge. Enjoy your trip!