NC500 Campervan Cost Breakdown (2026-2027)
How much does the NC500 cost by campervan? A realistic breakdown of hire, fuel, campsites, food and extras for a 7 to 10 day North Coast 500 trip.
The North Coast 500 is Scotland's most famous road trip. Here is a realistic cost breakdown for doing it by campervan, so you can plan a budget before you book.
How much does it cost to do the NC500 in a campervan?
For two people over 7 to 10 days, a typical total is around £1,100 to £2,300. That covers campervan hire of about £495 to £1,295 a week, £150 to £250 of diesel for roughly 700 to 800 miles from Perth, £25 to £40 a night for campsites, plus food and activities. Costs are lowest outside July and August.
Campervan hire
The figures here are illustrative budgeting ranges, not live quotes. Get a dated quote from the partner for your exact vehicle and trip length. Confirm insurance excess, breakdown cover, mileage, heating and kitchen kit; Caledonian Tourers does not operate its own hire fleet or set the partner's terms.
Locations are listed by independent owners and operators, and we sign up new ones regularly, so availability is not guaranteed in every town. Email us your dates and we'll match you with a hire partner.
Fuel
The loop is about 516 miles, plus roughly 230 miles for the round trip from Perth to Inverness. At 28 to 32 miles per gallon, expect around £150 to £250 depending on diesel prices and detours. Fill up when you can on the north and west coasts, where stations are further apart.
Campsites
Most NC500 campsites charge around £25 to £40 a night for a campervan with electric hook-up. Over seven nights that is roughly £175 to £280.
Food and activities
Cooking in the van keeps costs down: budget about £15 to £25 a day for two for groceries, plus meals out. Castles and distilleries typically cost £10 to £25 per person, while beaches and most walks are free.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest time to do the NC500?
April, May and October are usually cheaper than summer, with lower hire rates and easier campsite availability. Check opening times for sites and attractions.
Are there any tolls on the NC500?
No. There are no road tolls on the NC500 route.
Related guides
Before you set off
This is a suggested itinerary, not a live availability or safety report. Journey times and budgets are planning estimates. Follow local signs, landowner permission and current restrictions for overnight parking; Scottish access rights do not cover motor vehicles. Caledonian Tourers does not operate its own hire fleet: the hire partner confirms the vehicle, price and collection arrangements.
- Confirm collection point, licence eligibility, vehicle height, length and weight with the hire partner.
- Book overnight stops and check opening dates, arrival times, water and waste facilities directly with each site.
- Check the weather and road reports before departure; keep a lower-level alternative and allow time for stops.
- Download maps, carry warm layers and drinking water, and identify fuel stops before remote sections.
- Confirm mileage allowance, insurance excess, breakdown cover, heating and included equipment before paying.
Official trip-planning sources
Caledonian Tourers — luxury motorhome & campervan hire in Scotland & England, plus the UK's largest campervans-for-sale marketplace (900+ cities) and a curated roof tents UK shop. Family-run from Perth since 2019. Email enquiries: [email protected].