Caravanning in Spain means sunshine, long coastlines and relaxed campsites. This guide brings together crossings, driving rules and campsites reviewed first-hand.
Spain is a favourite for UK tourers, and it’s easy to see why. First, the weather is warmer for much of the year. Then there are the beaches of the Costa Brava, the mountains of the north and the historic towns inland.
However, Spain is further away than France. So the journey needs more planning, and the rules differ from the UK. For example, Spain has its own emergency kit rules and low emission zones.
That’s why this page collects every Spain guide on Caravan Adventuring in one place. If France is your first trip abroad, start with Caravanning in France instead.
There are two main ways to reach Spain. First, Brittany Ferries sails direct from Portsmouth to Santander and Bilbao. It also runs Plymouth to Santander in the main season. These crossings take roughly 20 to 30 hours.
Alternatively, you can cross to France and drive south. That takes longer on the road, so plan a few overnight stops. For instance, La Paille Haute and Camping Le Montbartoux both work well as stopovers.
Compare the long ferry to northern Spain with the short crossing to France and the drive south.
Plan the drive south through France, including ways around Paris and where tolls apply.
Check every document to pack before you leave, from passports to insurance and your GHIC.
Find out how the EU’s new border checks work for UK travellers entering Spain.
Spain changed its breakdown rules in 2026. Since 1 January 2026, Spanish cars must carry a connected V16 beacon instead of warning triangles. However, the Spanish Government says foreign-registered vehicles may still use warning triangles.
Also, many Spanish towns and cities now have low emission zones, known as ZBE. Foreign cars can’t get the Spanish environmental sticker. Instead, some cities ask you to register your car online first. Barcelona does this, for example. So check each city’s own ZBE page before you drive in.
The full guide to towing in Spain, covering speed limits, mirrors, emergency kit, tolls and fuel stops.
Most routes to Spain cross France first. So check the French rules on kit, mirrors and stickers too.
Learn the signs that often confuse UK drivers, before you meet them on a Spanish motorway.
Spain is a long way from home. Make sure your cover includes the caravan as well as the car.
Caravan Adventuring personally visits every campsite in its official reviews. So far, one Spanish site has a full review, with more to come.
A large resort-style site among the trees near Pals. It has fully serviced pitches, several pools and a regular coach to the beach. It scored 43 out of 50.
A summer 2026 trip through France to the Costa Brava, with Eurotunnel crossings both ways and a long drive south.
Spain also has motorhome service areas. Find out when an aire makes sense, and why most caravans need a campsite.
Popular Spanish sites fill up in summer. So learn how and when to book before you set off.
Yes. Brittany Ferries sails from Portsmouth to Santander and Bilbao. It also runs Plymouth to Santander in the main season. As a result, the crossing takes roughly 20 to 30 hours.
Spanish cars have needed a connected V16 beacon since 1 January 2026. However, the Spanish Government says foreign-registered vehicles may still use warning triangles. Even so, check the latest rules before you travel.
Sometimes. Foreign cars can’t get the Spanish environmental sticker. Instead, some cities, such as Barcelona, ask you to register online. Otherwise, park outside the zone and use public transport.
According to GOV.UK, UK visitors can stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. That limit covers Spain and most other EU countries together, so count every day abroad.
It depends on your priorities. The ferry saves days of driving. On the other hand, the drive lets you stop and explore France on the way. The ferry or Eurotunnel guide compares both.
Yes. Motorhomes and campervans can use campsites and motorhome service areas. For more, see Motorhome and Campervan Touring.
Ellie can help with campsites, routes and touring questions for your trip. Then browse the other European guides for more ideas.
Save campsites, plan upcoming stays and meet other tourers in the Community. Joining is free and takes under a minute.
