Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of our frequently asked questions - please also use the search function on the group facebook page for specific or technical queries, as your question may already have been asked and answered by our fantastic members.
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Otherwise, always feel free to ask on the group - there are no stupid questions!
Where can I get a Membership Card?
These can be ordered on this website in the group shop (click here). Keep an eye on facebook updates for details of new benefits and promotions, and view our partner sites and businesses using the main menu at the top of this page.
Are you a business?
No we are a community group, run and administered by volunteers. We operate free of charge and on a not-for-profit basis, to provide a base for knowlege exchange, reviews, banter and all things motorhome / caravan related.
So what happens to the money received for stickers / cards?
The cost of cards / stickers / apparel / merchandise covers the cost to have these items manufactured and shipped, and all of the profit is collected and given to charity in an annual donation. The current nominated charity is the Les Hoey Dreammaker Foundation
Why do I need a sticker / card?
Quite simply - you don't! However, our admin work hard in their free time to promote the group to relevant businesses, in order to secure deals and discounts for our members.
We have a large and growing list of partner campsites, retailers, attractions, and businesses who now recognise the group and our aims, and they are supporting us by offering these deals and discounts to members.
A membership card is required as proof of membership so you can get your deal.
The stickers are a great way to identify with the group - we are proud of our members, and there are many great stories of members coming together to help each other, make friendships and further enhance their camping experiences, and the sticker is a simple way to show that you are proud be be part of a great community.
Tell me about Midges!
Many people visiting Scotland have questions or concerns about the dreaded midge. Midges are a well known and widespread "issue", and we try to keep discussions about the troublesome pests to a minimum to avoid more on-topic and useful posts and conversations being drowned out.
However, there are a number of frequently recommended solutions. While the group can't specifically endorse or recommend any remedies, many members report the use of Avon Skin So Soft (although the older version is reportedly better) is an effective repellent. Smidge is another popular product among members. In peak season, and near wet ground, a midge hat or even midge nets would be recommended!
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Midge season typically runs from May until September, with the biting females arriving in early June. Anywhere with a good growth of plant species such as moss, rushes or damp-loving grasses will be a potential midge breeding ground.
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Is the NC500 suitable for motorhomes / caravans?
For the most part, the route is suitable and many before have completed the route in a motor home. The ‘Bealach Na Ba’ stretch however is not suitable for large motor-homes, caravans and inexperienced drivers due to its sharp bends and steep gradients so we would advise taking the slip road up at the A896 instead which will be much safer for you and your passengers.
We would also recommend avoiding the B869 from Lochinver to Kylesku as this can be a tricky route to follow for large vehicles. If you take the A837 back from Lochinver on the the main road you will be fine. As always, please take due caution on the roads and use passing places where possible.
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Advice from several professional drivers that know the road, and from the local breakdown services, is that if your motor-home is more than a standard VW T5 conversion (ie about 16 – 18 ft in length), please take the alternative routes available. It only takes ONE person who is not used to driving a large vehicle to block the road completely to the detriment of other users, those that use the road for work, and importantly – emergency vehicles.
For example, the Bealach Na Ba road to Applecross was blocked several times last year because of this. And please remember: If you cannot accurately reverse your vehicle several hundred yards on a narrow single track – you cannot safely drive over a road such as this.
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There is lots of good further information is available online, or by using the search function on Scottish Motorhomers & Caravanners facebook page, as well as on Visit Scotlands page at www.visitscotland.com/see-do/tours/driving-road-trips/north-coast-500
How do I contact you?
The best place to ask questions is the facebook page at the link below.
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The admin team are all volunteers who give up their own time to help keep the group running, and so we may not alway be immediately on hand to respond to members.
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By communicating through the facebook group, there is a greater chance of your query being picked up faster.
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If you have an issue that cannot be resolved on the facebook group, please contact us form on this page and we will try to assist - please be considerate of the fact we are not a business, and manage the group around our own work, family, and other commitments.
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Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/Scottishmotorhomersandcaravanners
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Any guidance for caravan weights?
Have a look at this resource...
Can I sell on the group?
We are happy for you to advertise for sale, items that are relevant to the purpose of the group (eg, caravans, motorhomes, camping equipment, etc).
Please ensure you include as much information as possible, including location, price, and photos. Posts that do not include these will not be approved.
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Please remember, there is no advertising of businesses allowed without prior admin approval. Group partners are free to promote on the group.