Is it legal to live in a camper van in the UK?
Yes, there aren’t any laws in the UK that say you can’t live in a van. As long as it’s taxed, insured and fully MOT’d you’re fine. This doesn’t mean you can simply park up and live anywhere though, and there are illegalities when it comes to where you choose to stay. Although it’s quite alright for a passenger to nod off while they are in the passenger seat, they shouldn’t be sleeping or lying in the beds on board. It might sound like the ultimate way to travel in comfort, but lying in a bed while the campervan is being driven is dangerous and illegal.Technically, no explicit national laws stop you from sleeping in your motorhome or campervan overnight while parked on a public road.The UK does not have a blanket law which prohibits sleeping in vehicles. However, there are several regulations and local bylaws that affect motorhome users. Road Traffic Act 1988: It’s illegal to be in charge of a motor vehicle while you’re under the influence of alcohol or drugs, even if the vehicle is stationary.
Where is it legal to camp for free in the UK?
Wild camping isn’t permitted in most parts of England, Wales, and Northern Ireland unless you have permission from the landowner, except for Dartmoor in South-West England. In Scotland, wild camping is allowed in most areas, with some restrictions around Loch Lomond and on enclosed land. You can usually wild camp in most national parks, provided you stay away from the paths and from touristic spots. If you’re ever in doubt about whether you can wild camp, simply ask the nearest landowner to be sure. Often landowners won’t mind if you stay on their land, as long as you ask!