FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
The Vehicle & Driving
1. What driving licence do I need to hire a motorhome in Scotland?
You need a standard Category B licence (the same as for a car) held for at least 2 years. Our Ford Swift Voyager 485 is under 3,500kg so no special C1 category is required. Drivers must be aged 30–75. We accept full UK, EU, Australian (AU), and New Zealand (NZ) driving licences. Unfortunately we are unable to accept USA, Canadian, or South African licences. All drivers must provide the required documents on collection day — see FAQ 14 for details.
2. Is the motorhome manual or automatic?
Our motorhome features a modern 6-speed manual gearbox, providing full control and great fuel efficiency while navigating the scenic roads of the Scottish Highlands.
3. What are the fuel and gas policies for my trip?
We keep our policies simple and stress-free:
Diesel: You will collect the motorhome with a full tank. Please return it full (Full-to-Full policy).
LPG (Gas): You do not need to worry about refilling the gas bottles before returning. We take care of the LPG for you so you can enjoy your holiday until the very last minute.
4. What are the exact dimensions for ferry bookings?
When booking ferries (e.g., CalMac), you will need these dimensions:
Length: 7.54m
Width: 2.37m
Height: 2.98m
5. How many people can travel in the motorhome?
The motorhome sleeps up to 5 people and a maximum of 5 passengers may travel at any time. All passengers must be seated with seatbelts fastened while the vehicle is moving.
Comfort & Equipment
6. What is included in the kitchen and "Starter Pack"?
We ensure you can hit the road immediately.
On board, you will find:
Kitchenware: A full set of plates, mugs, glasses, and cutlery.
The Essentials: Tea, coffee, sugar, salt, and pepper.
Hygiene & Cleaning: Dishwashing liquid, hand soap, kitchen towels, bin bags, and toilet rolls.
7. Do you provide bedding and towels?
Yes, we provide luxury bedding and fresh towels for all guests. However, we offer full flexibility during the booking process, you can choose to opt-out and bring your own bedding if you prefer.
8. Is your motorhome pet-friendly?
To guarantee a 100% pristine and allergy-friendly environment, we maintain a strict no pet policy. Every inch of the interior is deep-cleaned after each hire to ensure a spotless experience for every guest.
9. How does the heating work during wild camping?
The motorhome features a powerful dual-fuel heating system. When you are "off-grid," it runs on gas to keep you warm and cozy, even during a Scottish winter.
Planning & Logistic
10. Can I leave my own car with you during the hire?
Yes! We offer free, secure parking at our premises in Blantyre (G72 9EE) for the entire duration of your hire.
11. How does the security deposit work?
A refundable security deposit is taken in person at the time of collection using our card terminal. It must be paid by credit card in the name of the primary driver.
The deposit amount depends on your driving history:
£1,250 (standard) — applies to most drivers with a clean or minor conviction history.
Structured as: £1,000 insurance excess cover + £250 contractual penalties reserve.
£1,750 — applies if you have more than 2 minor convictions, or 1 conviction of 6+ points within the last 3 years.
Structured as: £1,500 insurance excess cover + £250 contractual penalties reserve. This must be declared before booking.
The full deposit is refunded to the same card within 7 working days of return, provided the motorhome comes back in good condition. If any deductions are made, you will receive a written itemised statement.
12. What are the collection and return times?
Collection is from 3:00 PM on the first day of your rental. Return is by 10:00 AM on the final day. We are flexible where possible just let us know your preferred times and we will do our best to accommodate you.
13. Is wild camping allowed in Scotland?
Yes, Scotland has generous access rights. You can park overnight in most areas as long as you follow the "Leave No Trace" principle.
14. How do I generate my DVLA Check Code?
It takes 2 minutes! Visit gov.uk/view-driving-licence, enter your details, and click 'Share your licence information' to create a code. Codes are only valid for 21 days and must be generated no more than 21 days before your collection date.
Please send your code to us at info@happyfamilymotorhomehire.co.uk a few days before collection — this allows us to verify your licence in advance and makes collection day much smoother for you.
15. What documents do I need to bring on collection day?
All drivers must bring the following original documents — photocopies and digital copies are not accepted: UK licence holders: Original driving licence Original passport or photo ID Two proofs of address from different sources, dated within 90 days of the hire end date (e.g. utility bill, bank statement, payslip, council tax letter) DVLA Licence Check Code (generated at gov.uk/view-driving-licence, valid for 21 days) Non-UK licence holders (EU, AU, NZ): Original driving licence Original passport (mandatory) Two proofs of address as above Signed written statement confirming any motor claims or convictions in the last 5 years (if none, simply write and sign: "I confirm I have had no motor claims or driving convictions in the last 5 years") Missing any document on collection day means we are unable to release the motorhome and your booking deposit will be forfeited.
16. Can I have additional drivers?
Yes additional drivers are welcome at no extra charge. Each additional driver must complete our Drivers Declaration Form and bring all required documents (see FAQ 14) in person on collection day. All drivers must meet the same eligibility requirements as the primary driver.
17. What are your rules about driving convictions?
No convictions — no problem.
1 or 2 minor convictions (e.g. SP30 speeding, 3 points each) — accepted as standard.
One conviction of 6+ points received more than 3 years ago — accepted as standard.
More than 2 minor convictions, or a 6+ point conviction within the last 3 years — please contact us before booking. A higher excess of £1,500 and deposit of £1,750 applies.
Convictions with codes DR, DG, DD, BA, IN, or UT within the last 3 years, or a driving ban within the last 5 years — not accepted.
Not sure? Just contact us before booking — we are happy to check for you.
18. Can I take the motorhome abroad?
No — the motorhome is insured for use within the United Kingdom only (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, Isle of Man, and Channel Islands). Travel outside the UK including to Ireland or any EU country is prohibited and will void the insurance cover entirely.
19. How do I pay for my hire?
The rental fee is collected securely online through Stripe prior to collection.
The security deposit (£1,250 standard, or £1,750 if higher excess applies — see FAQ 11) is taken in person at collection via our card terminal.
All payments must be made by the primary driver — cash is not accepted.
20. What happens if I have an accident?
First, ensure the safety of yourself and all other persons involved. Call 999 immediately if anyone is injured. Once everyone is safe, call us on 07453469897 within 1 hour. Do NOT admit liability to any other party. Take photos of all vehicles, damage, and the scene. Collect the details of all other parties and witnesses. Complete the Accident Report Form provided in the motorhome document wallet and submit it to us within 24 hours.