Scotland’s Stay The Night Scheme for Motorhome and Campervan Travellers

Having already bought your vehicle from Wandahome, you’ll want to undertake a trip or two which really stretch its legs (well, wheels). Scotland is always a good spot to head for, from the East Yorkshire area. Its rugged landscapes and vast lochs mean it’s one of the UK’s dream destinations for motorhome and campervan enthusiasts.

Recognising the increasing popularity of leisure vehicle travel, Forestry & Land Scotland (FLS) introduced the Stay The Night scheme in 2020. This provides a unique opportunity for travellers to experience the country's natural beauty a little bit more intimately. It’s an alternative to traditional campsites, allowing travellers to stay overnight in designated car parks managed by FLS (typically between April and October).

You’ll find that most of the locations in the Stay The Night scheme are nestled in some of the most scenic places Scotland has to offer. Just imagine waking up surrounded by nature, and without the crowds often found in more conventional camping spots.

1. Key features of Stay The Night

One of the biggest draws of the Stay The Night scheme is its simplicity and accessibility. Those sites which are included in the programme are in areas managed by FLS, which often means they are in remote, tranquil settings spread across various regions - from the dense forests of the Highlands to the serene shores of the lochs. Every site in the Stay The Night list is carefully selected so that it’s not just a place to park overnight but also somewhere you can connect with Scotland’s natural environment.

Travellers using the Stay The Night sites can typically stay from 6pm until 10am the following morning. The cost of an overnight stay is generally modest, so it’s an affordable option for anyone who is exploring Scotland on a budget. It’s also particularly beneficial as traditional campsites can become booked up quickly during the peak tourist season which leaves late planners with few options.

The Stay The Night scheme is really flexible for travellers. There’s no need to book in advance, which means you can indulge in a bit of spontaneous travel as and when - often one of the joys of motorhome and campervan ownership.

2. Responsible travel

While the Stay The Night scheme offers motorhome and campervan travellers an exciting and unique way to experience Scotland, it does put a strong emphasis on responsible travel. FLS encourages users to adhere to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, which gives details of your rights and responsibilities. In other words, it outlines how to enjoy the countryside responsibly, including the importance of leaving no trace, respecting wildlife and being mindful of other people and local communities.

Importantly, the Stay The Night scheme is not intended as a replacement for traditional campsites. At those you’ll usually find additional facilities such as toilets, showers and waste disposal. You won’t find those at the Stay. The Night sites – and, as such, you’re expected to be self-sufficient, carrying all waste with you, including grey water, and using onboard facilities until such time as you can empty safely and correctly. This helps to preserve the natural beauty of Scotland’s landscapes.

There are businesses such as shops and cafés are located near some Stay The Night sites, and travellers are encouraged to support them. This boosts the local economy but also creates goodwill between the motorhome community and the locals, which is crucial for the long-term success of the Stay The Night scheme.

3. Planning your stay

To make the most of the scheme, Stay The Nighters should check the FLS website for the most up-to-date information on locations that are taking part in the scheme. The list can change, and so it’s always important that you check before you arrive to make sure a location is open for overnight stays. Each site has its own rules and restrictions (e.g. maximum vehicle length), so it’s always advisable to be aware of those in advance.

The Stay The Night scheme is a really thoughtful and inclusive which brings a whole host of new opportunities for motorhome and campervan travellers in Scotland. For those who appreciate nature and the freedom of the open road, Stay The Night is an opportunity not to be missed. Get your vehicle from Wandahome today and point it to the Scottish border!