Updated June 2026 · Complete guide to crossing the Channel with a rental motorhome.
Taking your UK motorhome hire on the ferry to France opens up the entire European motorhome network — France alone has over 3,500 dedicated motorhome stopover areas (Aires) and over 10,000 paid campsite pitches. Here's exactly how to do it.
Most operators allow cross-Channel travel with advance notice (usually 48–72 hours). Motorhome Republic, the operator we primarily feature, permits travel to France, Spain, Portugal, Belgium, Netherlands, Switzerland, and Germany from UK depots. Always confirm with the operator before booking a cross-Channel itinerary.
| Route | Operator | Crossing time | Frequency | Motorhome cost est. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dover–Calais | P&O Ferries, DFDS | 90 min | Every 45 min–1 hr | £80–220 return |
| Folkestone–Coquelles (Eurotunnel) | Eurotunnel Le Shuttle | 35 min | Every 30 min peak | £100–280 return |
| Portsmouth–Caen | Brittany Ferries | 6 hrs | 1–2x daily | £120–350 return |
| Portsmouth–Cherbourg | Brittany Ferries | 3–5 hrs | 1–2x daily | £100–300 return |
| Newhaven–Dieppe | DFDS | 4 hrs | 2x daily | £90–240 return |