Wild camping in Spain
Technically wild camping in Spain is illegal and as from 1st October 2026, heavy fines are being issued for those breaking the law.
It is however, fully legal to sleep in your vehicle overnight unless signage states otherwise.
There is a clear distinction between camping and sleeping in your vehicle.
You can:
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Sleep in your vehicle
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Have windows and vents open
You cannot:
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Have anything extending from the vehicle footprint such as awnings, windbreaks and furniture
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Use wheel levellers under your wheels. All tyres must be on the ground
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Have extending steps protruding from your vehicle
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Erect washing lines etc
If you are parked in marked bays, your vehicle must fit inside the markings
If it is paid parking, you must display a valid ticket
The best alternative is to park on authorised camp sites
All that said, Spain has a greater tolerance for campers and motorhomes than
the UK. Especially out of season, many places welcome them. They know
how tourism of any kind is good for the economy.
Spain has seen a boom in motorhomes over recent years and this includes
van lifers.
Driving in Spain
Driving in Spain is straightforward and enjoyable, but there are a few key differences from the UK. You drive on the right and overtake on the left. Always carry your driving licence, passport, and vehicle documents. Speed limits are in kilometres per hour (km/h).
Familiarize yourself with the core rules, documents, and speed limits to ensure a safe, fine-free road trip:
Basic Rules of the Road
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Overtaking: Always overtake on the left. It is illegal to undertake unless traffic is moving in slow, parallel lines.
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Roundabouts: Traffic already on the roundabout has priority. You must yield to traffic coming from your left, and use the outer lane when exiting.
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Priority: At unmarked intersections, vehicles approaching from the right have the right of way.
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Horns and Lights: Horns are only permitted in emergencies or to prevent an accident. Flash your lights to warn of approach in urban areas.
Speed Limits (Unless otherwise posted)
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Motorways and Dual Carriageways: 120 km/h (minimum speed limit of 60 km/h).
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Open/Country Roads: 90 km/h
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Built-up/Urban Areas: 30 km/h to 50 km/h depending on the street and signage.
Essential Documents & Equipment
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Licence: A valid, full driving licence is required.
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UK Visitors: Ensure your vehicle displays a "UK" sticker, even if your number plate already features one.
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Emergency Gear: You must carry a warning triangle.
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Emissions: If you are driving near or through cities like Barcelona or Madrid, check to see if your car complies with low-emission zone requirements, as some older vehicles are banned or require a registration permit. Check the DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico) for full environmental badge and zone information.
Safety Fines & Strict Laws
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Drink Driving: The blood alcohol limit is stricter than the UK at 0.05% (0.02% for newly qualified drivers).
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Mobile Phones: Using a handheld mobile device or wearing in-ear headphones while driving is strictly prohibited and can result in heavy fines.
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On-the-Spot Fines: Spanish traffic police can (and will) issue on-the-spot fines for driving infractions. Non-residents are typically required to pay immediately, often with a reduction for prompt payment.
Driving on toll roads
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Spain has an amazing network of toll roads and they enable you to travel great distances without having to pass through all the small towns and villages. The toll roads are in excellent condition and very safe. They are also easy to use and can be cost-effective for long distances.
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You can pay at the toll booth as you enter the toll road. Some issue a ticket when you join the road then you just pay the required fee when you exit the toll road. The machines calculate the cost based on your trip. Most toll booths still accept cash although card payment is easier.