After completing yet another motorhome trip from sunny Estepona in southern Spain to Calais at the northern tip of France, I decided it was time to crunch the numbers. I’ve often wondered whether taking the overnight ferry from Spain to the UK—skipping France entirely—might actually be a more cost-effective and efficient option.
This journey was completed in April 2025 in a Swift Motorhome, built on a Fiat Ducato chassis with a 2.3L Multijet engine. I followed the Google Maps route exactly, making no effort to hunt for cheaper fuel or avoid toll roads. My only fuel rule? Stop at the next service station once the tank hits a quarter—realistic, no-nonsense travel.
The Journey: Distance, Fuel, and Tolls
According to Google Maps, the route from Estepona to Calais spans 2,162 km (1,343 miles). I only stopped for two nights—once near the Spanish-French border, and again just north of Rouen in France. Both stops were right off the route, so they didn’t impact the overall mileage or fuel consumption much.
Fuel costs varied considerably between the two countries:
- Spain: ~€1.52/litre at motorway service stations
- France: ~€1.80/litre on average
Key costs for the trip:
- Fuel: €420
- Toll roads (mostly in France): €191.76
- Total Cost (Estepona to Calais): €611.76
There was a minor detour in France due to an accident, which saved about an hour. I don’t believe it had any significant effect on fuel or toll costs.
What About Skipping France?
I estimate that avoiding France completely—by taking an overnight ferry from Spain to the UK—could have saved me around €400 in fuel and tolls. However, the standard Dover to Calais ferry crossing only cost £130, while the longer overnight ferry would’ve been significantly more expensive than that.
That said, the ferry would have spared me a long drive through France, reduced wear on the motorhome, and turned part of the journey into a restful overnight cruise.
Important Note: UK Costs Not Included
While I was headed to County Durham, I’ve chosen not to include UK fuel or travel costs in this breakdown. Travellers head to all corners of the UK, so keeping the numbers focused on the Estepona to Calais leg ensures they’re more broadly useful.
Final Thoughts: Time, Cost, and Experience
Normally, I spread this trip over at least seven days, but this time it had to be a quick three-day dash. It worked—but I wouldn’t recommend it. A more relaxed pace makes the journey more enjoyable, and gives you time to actually take in the views and culture (and yes, the surprisingly good food at French service stations).
So, is driving all the way from Spain to Calais worth it? If you’re in no rush and enjoy the freedom of the open road, absolutely. But if you’re watching the clock—or your wallet—the ferry might be worth considering.
Howabout looking at our tested locations page to get an idea of where to stop on this trip. Or perhaps you need advice on some essential or nice to have items to make your motorhome experience the best it can be.