Crossing into Northern Ireland in a Campervan

Quick summary: Driving a campervan from Dublin into Northern Ireland is easy: the motorway north to Belfast crosses the border without stopping, and the Causeway Coast is within a few hours. The main things to check are your rental terms, as some companies ask you to declare the trip or charge for it, and your insurance cover. Once across, distances switch to miles and the currency to pounds, but driving remains on the left in your campervan or motorhome.

At a glance
Dublin to Belfast	Around 165 km, about 2 hours
Border	No stops on the main roads
Rental terms	Check whether you must declare the trip
Units	Miles and miles per hour in the north
Currency	Pounds in the north; euros in the Republic
Tours	Northern Ireland tours

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Can you take a rental campervan into Northern Ireland?

Most companies allow it, but terms vary. Some require you to declare the trip, some add a cross-border fee, and insurance cover may differ. Check before you book, and keep the rental agreement with you.

What changes when you cross the border?

Item	Republic of Ireland	Northern Ireland
Distances and speeds	Kilometers	Miles
Currency	Euro	Pound sterling
Driving side	Left	Left
Road signs	Often bilingual	English

How do you get from Dublin to the Causeway Coast?

Take the M1 north past Drogheda and Newry to Belfast, then follow the Causeway Coastal Route north. Allow a full day from Dublin to the Giant’s Causeway with stops. See the Causeway Coast and Belfast.

Can an RV rented in Belfast enter the Republic?

Yes, with most companies, under the same kind of terms. Northern Ireland pickups are a good option if you’re starting in the north. See Belfast and Northern Ireland pickup.

What about one-way rentals between Dublin and Belfast?

Some companies offer them, often with a longer minimum rental and a one-way fee. Compare a few options when you search.

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Frequently Asked Questions