Can you take your motorhome to Jersey and Guernsey?

Where will your beloved motorhome take you next? For those who like things a bit more exclusive than the UK mainland but not too far-flung, then heading to the Channel Islands of Jersey and Guernsey is an option well worth considering.

Taking a motorhome to this part of the world takes a bit more planning than some other areas. In particular you can’t just turn up unannounced at a ferry port on mainland Britain and hope to hop on the next boat over.

To help you travel with confidence and make the most of your break, we’ve put together this guide on taking a motorhome trip to Jersey and Guernsey. Making things as simple and as affordable as possible is what we specialise in here at Motorhome Protect. That’s why we spend so long looking for the best motorhome insurance to suit all needs and budgets. We offer cover that includes the vehicle itself, as well as its contents, and ensures that your next trip is as stress-free and as enjoyable as possible.

Getting your motorhome to Jersey and Guernsey

Condor Ferries operates routes to Jersey and Guernsey from Poole and Portsmouth depending on the time of year. If you’re planning on including the Channel Islands as part of a French vacation, then you can also visit them from ports in Normandy.

However, in order to be allowed to travel to either of the two islands, you first need a motorhome entry permit. Full permit conditions can be viewed on the Jersey government website. For Guernsey more information can be found on the States of Guernsey website.

To get a permit you need to book your stay with one of the registered campsites on either of the islands. Once you’ve booked with them, they will arrange for you to obtain the permit. Be warned, Guernsey only allows limited numbers of motorhomes on the island at any one time, so permits can be in short supply.

You must display a permit sticker in your windscreen at all times while you’re touring the islands. If you plan on visiting both Jersey and Guernsey, then you’ll need separate permits.

Motorhomes are limited to a maximum stay of one month and you must return to your chosen campsite each night. So, no wild camping escapades here!

The details of the registered campsites on Jersey are:

• Beuvelande Campsite – email info@beuvelandecampsite.com or call 01534 853575
• Rozel Camping Park – email enquiries@rozelcamping.com or call 01534 855200
• The Palms – email info@thepalms.je or call 01534 481700
• Hideaway Stopover – email hideawaystopover@gmail.com or call 01534 759082
• Jersey Activity Centre – email info@jerseyhostel.co.uk or call 01534 498636

The details of the registered campsites on Guernsey are:

• Le Vaugrat Campsite – email enquiries@vaugratcampsite.com or call 01481 257468
• Beaucette Marina – email info@beaucettemarina.com or call 01481 245000
• Fauxquets Valley Campsite – email info@fauxquets.co.uk or call 01481 255460
• La Bailloterie Camping – email info@campinginguernsey.com or call 01481 243636

Something to be very aware of are the regulations about the size of motorhomes allowed on the islands. On both islands, the maximum width allowed is 2.3m. In terms of length, Jersey allows a maximum of 9.3m, while Guernsey allows up to 6.9m.

There’s no getting around these requirements, as Condor Ferries insists on exact measurements when you book. Motorhomes up to 7m long with a maximum height of 3.1m and weight up to 4.5 tonnes can be booked online. For larger vehicles you must contact Condor directly on 0345 609 1024. Their website warns that incorrect details may prevent travel.

You’re allowed to transport up to 47kg of gas. Bottles must not exceed 7kg each (excluding bottle weight) and must be secured, disconnected and turned off during travel.

Perfect places to explore

Guernsey’s beautiful coast is a popular draw, but there are many cultural highlights packed into this small island. Explore the cobbled streets of St Peter Port, visit Castle Cornet, and listen for the daily Noon Day Gun.

Jersey also packs a lot into its nine-by-five-mile footprint. History buffs may enjoy the Jersey War Tunnels, offering insight into the five-year German occupation during World War Two.

Animal lovers should visit the Durrell Wildlife Park, home to more than 130 rare and endangered species.

The Channel Island Way is a 115-mile route linking Jersey, Guernsey, Alderney, Herm and Sark, making island hopping easy and rewarding.

Insurance cover to keep you on course

If you’re planning a trip to Jersey or Guernsey, Motorhome Protect offers specialist insurance with benefits including:

• Cover for camping personal effects up to £3,000
• Cover for motorhomes valued up to £150,000
• Unlimited mileage cover

Get a quote for motorhome insurance today.

Policy benefits and features may vary between insurance schemes or cover selected and are subject to underwriting criteria. Information is accurate at the time of publishing but may be subject to change.