What is the cheapest way to get to France?

Question

My partner an I are planning to go to France for a couple of months in April/May 2007, in a motorhome. Has anyone got any tips for cheap travel and how to avoid getting ripped off?
This is a serious request so please, no silly answers thanks folks

Answer 1

Swim, its the cheapest way...

but if you wan't to take the motorhome, then you will have to go by ferry or train, you don't get a motorhome into most cargo bays on planes, and they are very strict about hand luggage.

so Dover is the shortest distance, but if you want to get to southern France you might consider going to Plymouth/Portsmouth to Santander in Spain and crossing back up. its nicer to sleep the cruise down, and not drive, and you get back the fuel cost in the ferry cost.

Portsmouth to Cherbourge is better for the west coast, because if you haven't experianced french drivers yet, then you will not want to meet the belguims, who are a nightmare.

you can book online with Ferries.co.uk - with all major ferry operators.


Whether you're sailing from Plymouth or Santander they have the best deal available live and online. Finding cheap ferries from say Plymouth to Santander couldn't be easier; simply select Plymouth to Santander or Santander to Plymouth from the menus, number of passengers travelling in the vehicle (including the driver) and hit search.

To keep costs down and prices low, they do not issue tickets. At the end of the booking process, you get a reference number. Either print the confirmation and take it to the check in desk at Plymouth or Santander or take a note of the reference number to the port with you.

Answer 2

Depends on where you go - but check the difference in price between a camper van crossing and a caravan. If you want the West of France look at the prices for Plymouth to Roscoff. If you are travelling in France and want to avoid tolls take the Routes Nationales rather than the Autoroute - they are also more scenic and have no tolls!

Answer 3

The ferries are the cheapest, you can get some good deals if you look around.
I would avoid stopping overnight at the motorway laybys. They look really inviting, but there are some awful people who come out at night!
The French roads are pretty good and there are plenty of signs telling you where the camping sites are. We actually joined the Caravan Club, and they had lists of places that were really cheap (and reputable) all over the place. (both in the UK and in France).

Answer 4

Just two comments, unless your in a hurry avoid the toll roads, I paid from 3 euros to 8 euros but the roads are quieter.
Secondly never try to drive in Paris. It's not an easy task , you maybe stuck driving around for hours in traffic, also its very difficult to park for more that 2 hours at a time. Sudgest taking the train into Paris.

Answer 5

I had to respond to this because this is serious and your going to get a lot of answers so let me help you with at least one of the right answers... Use your common sense! If it's too good to be true, it's not! discuss all major decisions and get second opinions every Chance you can from other locals or people. hope you enjoy your trip! :)

Answer 6

Well the Chunnel's the cheapest way across.

When you're there get a good road map and avoid the toll roads; more scenic that way too.

Answer 7

See Dave C
Look at Norflok line [ Sail from Dover]

Answer 8

Depend where you are, start looking cheap flight. I used to be able to get flight for about £60-70 but you have to book it early.

Answer 9

Where abouts in France? You'll have to give us more info than that.

Answer 10

Swim!

(Sorry I just read the whole question) *Silly Answer*