Can You Take a Caravan on the Eurotunnel?
You’ll be pleased to know that if crossing the channel to explore some of Europe’s most desired places is a trip that you want to make, you can take your caravan on the Eurotunnel. Taking your holiday on wheels gives you the perfect opportunity to explore multiple areas without being tied down to a hotel for any specific length of time. With a gateway to France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain, Italy, and more, crossing the channel with your caravan opens doors to the ultimate Euro trip.
In this blog, we look at taking your caravan on the Eurotunnel so you can be fully prepared.
What is the Eurotunnel?
The Eurotunnel, Le Shuttle or Channel Tunnel, is an underwater railway tunnel that connects Folkestone in Kent with Coquelles near Calais in France. With a crossing of just 35 minutes, it provides a fast connection to mainland Europe, and gives holidaymakers, backpackers, couples and more the opportunity to start their exploration of France or make an onward journey to another country.
Now celebrating more than 30 years of service, more than 500 million people have crossed the channel since the tunnels’ opening in 1994.
Can you use the Eurotunnel with a caravan?
Yes! Caravan owners can also enjoy the sights, sounds and flavours of Europe via Eurotunnel. LeShuttle has specially built single-deck carriages that can easily accommodate caravans, motorhomes and campervans.
Purpose-built to accommodate the large space that caravan owners require, these carriages ensure your caravan can easily be manoeuvred into place before you set off to France.
Can I leave my caravan in the Eurotunnel carriage and sit elsewhere?
No. During your short crossing, you’ll stay with your vehicle. Then once you arrive, you can disembark and quickly set off on the next stage of your adventure. With it taking less than an hour, you could use the time to run through a checklist of essentials, watch the latest episode of your most recent binged series or polish off the final chapter of the book you’ve been reading!
Can I bring the gas tanks for my caravan onto the Eurotunnel?
You can, but guidance varies depending on how the gas is transported. With fixed LPG tanks, you’ll need to make sure that all gas appliances are switched off and that gas tanks are less than 80% full before travelling. You’ll be asked to prove this before you depart, so it’s not worth risking it. Failure to comply could mean that you are unable to travel. Gas containers that power domestic services for caravans have specific restrictions and must weigh no more than 47kg per cylinder or 50kg per vehicle if there is more than one cylinder.
How much does it cost to take a caravan on the Eurotunnel?
The costs for taking a caravan on the Eurotunnel vary. The time of year and size of your vehicle will be factored into determining the price. In addition, different ticket types will also see varying prices offered. Some offer complete flexibility, some come with restrictions. Either way, costs are per vehicle, not per person, and cover up to 9 passengers and as much luggage as you can fit in the boot.
At the time of writing, tickets range from £59 each way to £421 total return. However, dynamic pricing is used, so early booking and a check of the website are advised.
Caravan and Motorhome Club Eurotunnel discount is also available, providing members with a 10% discount on ticket prices.
What items are prohibited from being taken on the Eurotunnel in my caravan?
There are specific rules about what can be transported in your caravan or car when using the Eurotunnel. We’ve already prepared a handy guide about what food you can take to France, but there are also additional restrictions:
- Flammable liquids and solids
- Explosives (incl fireworks) and firearms
- Toxic or corrosive substances
- Oxidising agents
- Compressed gases, unless for medical use, with prior approval
- Illegal substances
In addition, customs laws may restrict items and quantities that can be transported between countries.
Heading through Europe with a caravan in tow can be an exciting way to explore more of the continent. If you haven’t yet taken the plunge to secure your new caravan, speak to our team. At Euphoria, we are the experts in caravan finance, making it easy for everyone to obtain the finance they need to fulfil their dreams. With a simple approach, we carefully assess finance applicants, even those with poor credit, and do our best to say yes! Get your free quote today.