28 Day Rule for Motorhome Hire – Simple Guide

If you rent a motorhome in the UK, you’ll quickly hear about the “28 day rule”. It’s basically a limit that says you can stay at a campsite or use a pitch as a permanent address for up to 28 days. After that, you’re expected to move on or treat the vehicle as a temporary accommodation only. The rule exists to stop people from turning a campsite into a long‑term home without paying the proper rates or taxes.

Why does this matter? Many motorhome travellers think they can park at the same spot for weeks on end, especially in popular areas like the Lake District or the North Yorkshire coast. The 28 day rule means the site can charge you for a longer stay, or they might ask you to leave. Ignoring it can lead to fines, a busted reservation, or even a ban from the campsite.

How to Stay Within the 28 Day Limit

First, ask the site manager about their specific policy. Some campsites count every night you’re on the pitch, while others only count nights when you’re actually sleeping there. Keep a simple log of your arrival and departure dates – a phone note works fine. If you’re getting close to the limit, consider moving to a nearby site or using a public park (where local rules allow) for a few nights.

Second, watch out for “over‑night parking” rules in towns. Many local councils treat a motorhome parked on a street as a vehicle, not as accommodation. If you stay longer than the rule permits, you could get a parking ticket or be asked to move.

Tips for a Smooth Road Trip

Plan your route with flexibility. If you know you’ll need more than 28 days in a region, book two or three campsites in a loop. That way you can hop between them without breaking the rule. Also, use our other guides – like the article on "Sleeping in Your Car at UK Campsites" – to find legal short‑stay options if you need a quick night’s rest.

Finally, keep receipts and booking confirmations. If a site ever questions your stay length, you’ll have proof of when you arrived and left. This saves time and avoids awkward conversations.

The 28 day rule isn’t a roadblock; it’s just a guideline to keep motorhome travel fair for everyone. Stick to it, plan ahead, and you’ll enjoy the freedom of the open road without worrying about fines. Need more details? Check out our related posts on UK wild camping laws, campsite electricity, and how to manage bathroom breaks on the move. Happy travelling!