Mull and Iona Campervan Guide
The Isle of Mull is the second-largest island of the Inner Hebrides. Iona, a short ferry ride away, is one of Scotland's most sacred sites.
Getting There
Ferry from Oban to Craignure (Mull). Caledonian MacBrayne, 45 minutes. Campervan cost: £60-90 return. Book in advance — summer slots fill 2-3 weeks ahead.
Campsites on Mull
- Shieling Holidays (Craignure): Large site near the ferry. £20/night. Showers, electric hookup.
- Croggan Campsite: Remote, basic, beautiful. £12/night. No hookup. On a sea loch.
- Calgary Campsite: Near Calgary Bay. £15/night. Stunning white sand beach.
- Fidden Farm: Wild camping feel. Basic facilities. £10/night. Sea views.
Wild Camping on Mull
Right to roam applies. Popular spots: the shore near Calgary Bay, Loch na Keal, and the Ross of Mull. Leave no trace.
Iona Day Trip
Ferry from Fionnphort (Mull) to Iona. 10 minutes. £7 return for foot passengers. Leave your van at Fionnphort car park (£5/day). Visit: Iona Abbey, the nunnery, and the white beaches of the west coast.
Wildlife
Mull is one of the best places in the UK for white-tailed eagles. Also: golden eagles, otters, seals, porpoises, and basking sharks in summer.
Time Needed
Minimum 4-5 days. Ideal: one week.
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Getting Started
If you're new to this topic, start with the basics:
- Understand the key concepts
- Research your specific needs
- Set a realistic budget
- Plan your approach before buying
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying the cheapest option (often costs more long-term)
- Skipping research on UK-specific requirements
- Not reading reviews from other UK van lifers
- Forgetting about ongoing costs and maintenance
UK-Specific Considerations
Living in the UK means dealing with:
- Variable weather conditions
- UK regulations and standards
- British suppliers and support
- Right-hand drive vehicle considerations
Budget Planning
For most van lifers, we recommend:
- Budget option: £50-100 (basic but functional)
- Mid-range: £100-200 (good quality, lasting)
- Premium: £200+ (best quality, longest lasting)
Maintenance Tips
Keep your equipment working well:
- Check regularly for wear and tear
- Clean according to manufacturer instructions
- Store properly when not in use
- Replace parts before they fail
Community Recommendations
The van life community consistently recommends:
- Starting simple and upgrading as needed
- Buying from established UK suppliers
- Reading forums and Facebook groups for real-world advice
- Watching YouTube tutorials before attempting installations
Route Planning Tips
- Use OS Maps for detailed UK mapping
- Download offline maps before heading out
- Check road conditions and closures
- Plan fuel stops in remote areas
- Book campsites in advance during summer
- Have a backup plan for bad weather
