4th March 2026

Welcome to the ScotCampers tri-weekly blog. 

This period can be summarised by; Courmayeur, new van, environment.

Courmayeur.  I had an opportunity to ski again this year and that’s what I did!  5 days with a well-established group of lads from – my village, London and Norfolk.  Some really good skiers in there and they were quite handy at the apres ski too!  Had my first proper venture into off-piste with a really good local instructor.  Felt safe and learnt a lot – it’s tough!  Lots of leg compressing and trying to jump around the apex of the turn.  Great time and I’ll be doing again.  Here’s the gang at lunchtime:

.New Van.  As I type I’m on a train bound for Sheffield to pick up my second 4-berth van.  Quite exciting!  I’m using https://reborncampers.co.uk again who did a great job on Bilbo and resulted in a bunch of great reviews last year. 

Benefit this time is that I’ve been able to spec. exactly as I want so there’s a blue theme going on, the correct gas locker and my logo on the seats.  Looking forward to getting behind the wheel this afternoon, campsite on the way back up the road and a bit of general faffing.  Next job will be photo shoot to get it on the web and GoBoony ahead of the season, safety checks and kitting it out ready for hirers.

For the photo shoot, I’ll likely tie in with documenting another route guide – helping customers as well as building my knowledge of Scotland a wee bit more.

Here’s the work in progress so far and it’s now finished:

Should be lovely to drive and good on emissions/fuel consumption.  I’m offering a decent 15% off fees for the first 5 hirers this year so please, get in touch quick!

Environment:  I love Scotland and always have.  I am passionate about enjoying its lovely landscape and treading often, gently.  I won’t preach about the environment because, let’s face it, I’m renting out something with an internal combustion engine but here’s a few points/thoughts from me:

• I consciously went with VW Type 6 Transporters for a couple of reasons.  First is they are a low emitting diesel (ULEZ compliant) and also I recall being saddened a few years ago walking in Skye and seeing the damage that large motorhomes had done to verges along the road to the Fairy Pools.  I believe the larger vans aren’t the best for many Scottish rural roads.
• Off-grid stays.  For peace of mind and maintaining battery life I’d recommend staying in one of the many great campsites in Scotland.  That way, we are not perhaps damaging the delicate environment by say, parking on rare fauna.  Also, who’s land is it anyway and I know I’d have a view if someone pitched up on my front garden!
• The economy.  Buy local!  It is a tough gig running a wee shop along the NC500 and the least you can do is stop in and buy a pint of milk!  After all, we are congesting their roads…  When I road-trip, yes I will use a supermarket to stock up on essentials but it’s only right that the local services and businesses are supported.
• Courtesy.  Yes, Scotland has some incredible views but please think of other road users when looking to photograph or soak up.  I’ve been stuck behind a number of vans reducing to 15mph on a main artery just to get a pic..  It’s inconsiderate and dangerous.  

This isn’t considerate touring and if we don’t fix, campervans potentially won’t be allowed back on the NorthC 500.

• Highway code.  Know your highway code ahead of setting off in Scotland.  For example, you’re on a single track road on a hill and you meet another vehicle coming towards you.  Who has right of way and who should be reversing?  I know.  Do you ahead of that trip?

As part of the 2026 plan, I’m going through environmental accreditation so the business is making the right choices, based on the delicate world around us.  More on that in a few weeks.

Happy to discuss bespoke hires in 2026, based around your needs.

DM me to discuss a 2026 discounted hire rate and until next time, remember, not all those who wander are lost.