Hire Van Tips

Here are some practical and essential tips for using a hire van in Edinburgh, especially helpful for families on an active trip like yours involving water sports equipment:

🚐 Hiring and Using a Van in Edinburgh

✅ Before You Hit the Road

  1. Check Your License & Insurance
    • Ensure your driving licence covers driving a 9-seater van (usually fine for UK licences).
    • Confirm what’s included in the hire company’s insurance. Consider excess protection insurance if not included.
  2. Inspect the Van Thoroughly
    • Before driving off, check for any existing damage and photograph it.
    • Test lights, wipers, mirrors, and brakes.
    • Make sure the fuel level matches what’s on the hire agreement.
  3. Familiarise Yourself with the Controls
    • Larger vans often have different gear ratios, blind spots, and turning radii than cars.
    • Adjust mirrors and seat properly for maximum visibility and comfort.

🧳 Packing Solutions and Storage

  1. Use Stackable Storage Boxes
    • Label boxes for quick access (e.g. SUP gear, wet kit, snacks, first aid).
    • Plastic crates with lids protect gear from spills and make stacking easier.
  2. Roof Box or Roof Rack for Bulky Items
    • Ask your hire company if the van is equipped with roof rails or if they can add a roof box.
    • Perfect for long items like paddles, boards (if not inflatable), or tents.
  3. Waterproof Bags or Dry Bags
    • Ideal for storing wet wetsuits or gear after water activities.
    • Helps prevent mildew and bad smells inside the van.
  4. Back Seat Organisers
    • Keep essentials like snacks, sunscreen, maps, or chargers in easy reach of passengers.
  5. Use Bungee Cords or Cargo Nets
    • Prevent loose items from shifting during transit.
    • Secure gear like paddleboards or coolers using anchor points inside the van.

🚮 Waste Removal Tips

  1. Bring a Foldable Rubbish Bin
    • Use a pop-up bin or reusable tote bag for separating recyclables and general waste.
  2. Carry Bin Bags & Zip Lock Bags
    • Use zip locks for storing used utensils, snack wrappers, or wet clothing separately.
  3. Know Local Recycling Points
    • Scottish Borders Council and city councils provide local recycling points. Use these instead of public bins when disposing of large quantities.
  4. Dispose Responsibly
    • Never leave trash at nature spots or roadside laybys. Always carry out what you carry in.

🛣️ Driving Best Practices in and Around Edinburgh

  1. Watch for Narrow Roads and Low Bridges
    • Use a satnav or app that allows you to input vehicle height to avoid awkward spots.
  2. Parking
    • Plan for van-friendly car parks. Many city centre car parks have height restrictions (usually 1.8m–2.1m).
    • In the Borders, look for country parks and larger public car parks with ample space.
  3. Fuel Up Smartly
    • Diesel is most common for minibuses; note the fuel type at pick-up.
    • Rural areas may have fewer filling stations — plan refuelling before remote trips.
  4. Drive Steadily
    • Allow more time for braking and turning due to the van’s weight.
    • In the Highlands and Borders, watch for cyclists and animals on country roads.
  5. Avoid Edinburgh City Centre Traffic
    • It can be congested. Use park-and-ride if you’re sightseeing, or plan routes during quieter hours.