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How to tour Europe in a Motorhome-the ULTIMATE guide

Want to tour Europe in a motorhome or campervan? Feeling a little overwhelmed and not sure where to start? Here’s everything you need, from what kit to pack, what paperwork you need to carry, how to prepare your van, European road trip itinerary ideas and tips for life on the road.

Don’t forget to grab your free Europe motorhoming checklist below.

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Touring Europe in a motorhome blog- our story

I remember the first time we took our motorhome to Europe. There were SO MANY rules and things to pack and what the heck are aires and how do I book one and what route should we take and do we need…

To say I was daunted was an understatement. Everywhere I looked for advice had totally contradicting information. I spent the first few days of our Europe road trip feeling exhausted and terrified that I’d forgotten something vitally important.

If you’re also feeling intimidated by the idea of travelling Europe in a motorhome, camper van or even a caravan, don’t panic. Since that first trip, I quit my job so we could explore Europe by motorhome as often as possible (let’s just not talk about 2020…)

We’ve travelled nearly 60,000 miles and visited 17 countries. We have made many MANY mistakes… but we’ve also learnt a lot about vanlife in Europe and what NOT to do. And I’m going to share that with you today.

I promise- it’s not as scary as it feels right now.

Today I’ll walk you through the various steps you need to take to plan your own motorhome road trip to Europe and, hopefully, you’ll feel much more confident by the end of it.

Don’t forget to grab your free printable Europe motorhome travel checklist , which will help you remember everything you need.

Unsure what you need for your Europe road trip? Worried you’re missing something important?

Grab your FREE Europe Road trip Checklist NOW- everything you need: essential kit, paperwork and useful gear to take.

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How to Tour Europe in a Motorhome, campervan or RV – where to start

Let’s start with the basics. Before you can head off to Europe in a motorhome, you need a motorhome or camper van! You can either buy one or hire one and there are pros/ cons to both.

TOP TIP: If you’re planning a 3 month or more trip to Europe, definitely buy a motorhome- it will be MUCH cheaper. Here’s our complete motorhome buyer’s guide to choosing the camper for you.

If you don’t already own a motorhome and are considering getting one, hiring a motorhome or campervan for at least a weekend, preferably a week, is the perfect way to know if motorhome life is for you, before you spend a lot of money on one.

Also, if you are looking to buy a motorhome for the first time , hiring one is a great way to learn what layouts work for you, what you like and dislike and what you’re looking for in your own vehicle.

Having said that, we bought our first motorhome with no experience and no planning and set off to tour around Europe after only 15 days… So do whatever feels right for you.

Want to rent a vehicle for your road trip?

These might help:

• Discover incredible deals for motorhome/ camper rentals
• Find the best deals for car rental

READ: 10 essential questions to ask before you rent a motorhome

Motorhoming in Europe- 25 Essential things to know

Watch this video for 25 things you need to know about touring with a motorhome or campervan in Europe:

We hope you found the video useful. If you did, we’d love it if you followed us on Youtube . New videos with tips for motorhoming and campervanning in the UK and Europe are released weekly.

Motorhome Touring in Europe- where to stay?

Once you’ve got a vehicle to tour around Europe in, the next thing to consider is how do you want your trip to Europe to be and where are you going to camp/ park overnight?

• Do you want to stay at a campsite with pitches for motorhomes, campervans and caravans which has loads of facilities and activities for the kids to do?
• Would you prefer to wild camp in your motorhome and stay at a new place each night, far from crowds and cities? 
• Do you want to use aires/ free overnight parking spots in Europe and stay 2/3 nights in a place before moving on?

Deciding the type of holiday you want to have will make planning your motorhome trip a lot easier. Here’s a bit more information about the types of motorhome parking available in Europe to help you decide.

Motorhome campsites in Europe

Campsites in Europe are very similar to ones in the UK; you arrive, are given or can select a pitch with or without electric (depending on what you booked) and that’s it. Often, you will need to provide ID when you arrive and some places even keep hold of your passport while you stay.

Campsites often have great facilities- like swimming pools or a beach on a lake, watersports, play area, restaurants, fresh bread delivery, shop etc. Dogs are normally always welcome, but there isn’t always a dog walk/ run where they are allowed off lead.

European motorhome travel in the school holidays- or not?

If you’re travelling in the school holidays, you’ll want to book up the campsite (if you’re using one) asap- the best ones get booked up months in advance.

If you’re NOT travelling during the school holidays, you might want to consider getting an ACSI camping card – you’ll save a lot of money on campsite charges.

Aires in Europe

For us, we prefer to travel around Europe in our motorhome and explore different places during our trips instead of staying in one area. We generally stay only one night in a place (unless we’re planning to ride the motorbikes, in which case we find somewhere for a few nights.) 

There are two types of motorhome overnight parking options instead of campsites. The first are approved Motorhome parking places, which are called Aires in France , Stellplatz in Germany and Sostas if you’re campervanning in Italy . They’re all pretty much exactly the same!

Motorhome Parking Tips for Aires

You cannot pre-book Aires- they operate on a first-come basis. We found people tended to move on about 10-11am and most were parked up by 4pm, so try and move within that window for the best chance of finding a space. When we toured Italy, we left a little earlier (around 9ish) and aimed to be parked for lunchtime-ish, which we think helped us get in where we wanted without problems.

We like aires, as we feel happier leaving our motorhome if we want to go off an explore, and don’t want to deal with the noise or expense of a European campsite. We tow motorbikes behind our motorhome and love being able to use them without worrying if the van is ok.

You can find more on how to use aires and find motorhome parking around Europe here.

Wild camping with a motorhome or campervan in Europe

The other option for overnight motorhome stopovers in Europe is wild camping, which is staying somewhere that’s not an ‘approved’ place overnight and then moving on the next morning.

Rules for wild camping with a Motorhome in Europe

There are many different rules and different stories about motorhome wild camping across Europe. Wild camping is technically illegal in many countries, such as Switzerland – but we’ve stayed off-grid in our motorhome hundreds of times without any trouble at all. Heck, it was a night wild camping in the Alps in Switzerland in our motorhome which made us decide to change our lives and go motorhome travelling (almost!) full-time!

Wild camping in France in a motorhome or campervan is tolerated, as long as you’re not near the coast or in a restricted area. Find out more about motorhome wild camping in France.

My advice is to research the rules for the country you’re visiting, and then check out Park4night. Don’t park if it says ‘No Overnight Parking’. Also, always trust your gut. If you’re not sure and not happy, move on to an approved Motorhome stop point, so you can get a good nights sleep without worrying about being woken up for parking illegally.

You can find everything you need to know about how to wild camp with a motorhome or campervan here.

How to find free/ cheap Motorhome Parking spots in Europe

So, HOW do we find these overnight stopovers in vans in Europe? There are three apps we use. They’re all great but work in slightly different ways.

Park4night is what we mainly use when motorhome touring in Europe- and it is BRILLIANT. It’s both an app and a website- we tend to use the app most while travelling. There is a small annual fee but it’s well worth paying for.

This is how we use it:

• Drive to somewhere we want to explore- or a place en-route if we’ve got a long route planned.
• As we get closer, open up the app on my iPad or laptop (read more about getting internet in a motorhome )
• Put in the area you are heading for into Park4night and filter your options.
• Look at photos and comments to remove any with bad reviews, or which are too small for your motorhome to fit into.
• Check to make sure the place is open! A lot of places close between Oct- Apr.
• Then I tend to go on gut feel. I might have two or three options at this point but if I’m honest I’ll know which one of those three I like the idea of most, and that’s the one we head for first. If we get there and it’s full/ closed/ turned into a building site (has happened twice to us!!) then we have other options we can fall back on and we can head to those next.

We use Park4night as it tends to have the most options for places to stay in Europe. However, there are some other good choices too.

Planning to take your motorhome to Europe?

GUIDE: Stop the overwhelm with our step-by-step guide. Contains eBook, checklists and more. Complete Europe Motorhome Travel Toolkit

CHECKLIST: Don’t forget to grab your FREE Europe motorhome travel checklist HERE

GEAR – If you need any motorhome gear for touring Europe, here’s what we recommend.

Camper contact

Camper Contact works in a very similar way to Park4night, however, the BIG thing it offers which we love is you can remove all parking spaces which aren’t suitable for longer motorhomes. We love this feature when we are towing a trailer behind our motorhome and want to make absolutely sure it’s suitable for a longer vehicle.

Camper contact is free on the website but the app requires payment, which is another reason we prefer Park4night.

Searchforsites

Search for sites is another motorhome parking app but is better for in the UK. Again, it’s a really useful site and well worth checking as occasionally there are different places on here than on the other two. Pretty much all the reviews on here seem to be in English, which can help when you want to read what people thought!

Between the three of these motorhome parking apps, we’ve travelled around Europe without any problems. Once, in Italy in August, our preferred Aire was full, so we had to move on elsewhere and a few times the place we’ve been heading for no longer exists!

If you find out of date information, please take the time to update the app so other motorhomers don’t do the same thing. They are all great resources and, without them, motorhome road trips in Europe wouldn’t be nearly so easy.

Other parking schemes in Europe

In Europe, there are several schemes similar to Britstops as a great source of free overnight parking stops for motorhomes. In France, France Passion is a similar set-up, and there are others around Europe.

You can find a list of all the motorhome overnight parking schemes and how to find them here.

Motorhome Route Planning for Europe trips

Once you’ve decided where you’re staying, you can start planning a motorhome route in Europe . Obviously, if you’re just travelling to one campsite and back again, then the route will be fairly straightforward.

However, if you’re planning to use aires or wild camping, then you can decide where you want to visit, what you want to see and if you’re going to be using toll roads or not.

One thing to note is that we rarely plan an actual road route until we’re driving. or just setting off for the day. I don’t plan the roads in advance- just the places we want to visit during our trip. Everything else I do as we travel. If we want to visit a specific aire or campsite, I’ll note that in our plan. You can grab our free road trip planner and use that to help you plan your route and things to do.

The other thing you’ll need to plan is how you’re going to get to Europe. If you’re in the UK, will you take the ferry or use Eurotunnel ? There are pros and cons of both but it’s worth deciding quickly so you can book in advance and hopefully save some money.

TOP TIP: If you want some ideas for where to visit, here are some of the best Europe road trip itineraries for motorhomes and campervans.

Tolls in Europe

Many people are concerned about tolls in Europe and like to plan their routes to avoid them. There are pros and cons to this. Tolls occur in nearly every European country which doesn’t insist on a vignette. If you’re motorhoming in Germany you can enjoy some free autobahns (same if you’re motorhoming in Holland .) 

When you plan a route in a country without a vignette, you have two options:

• The quick way (which uses tolls roads when necessary)
• The cheap way (which doesn’t!)

There is no right answer- it’s whatever’s best for you. If you only have a week for your motorhome holiday , many people will want to get to their destination asap, which means using toll roads.

If you have more time, you may want to save money and take the slower, but usually prettier, back roads. Do whatever’s right for you.

If you want to get an idea on how much a toll route might cost, use the website https://www.viamichelin.com/

This site will tell you the approximate driving costs for your trip, both in fuel consumption and tolls. The fuel setting is annoying as you can’t select for a motorhome/ camper, although you can select the appropriate mpg, but the toll charges & vignette costs (as long as your motorhome is under 3.5 tonnes and 3m tall,) are very accurate.

Motorhoming in Europe- paperwork you need to carry

So, you’ve got a vehicle, a plan for overnight stays and the beginnings of a route. Now it’s time for the paperwork you need to carry, both for your motorhome/ campervan and also for you.

Nobody likes this bit, because it’s pretty boring, but it’s also essential. We’ve been stopped twice, both times in France and both times near the ferry at Caen. The police seem to love waiting there and pouncing on Motorhomers and campervanners who might have forgotten something.

In France, fines for speeding or incorrect paperwork must be paid in cash on the spot, or else you’ll be escorted to the nearest police station- not the most welcoming start to your holiday! However, if you have all the following, there’s nothing they can do except wish you a ‘bonne journee’ and see you on your merry way.

READ MORE: Essential advice for motorhome touring in France

Complete list of paperwork needed to tour Europe in a motorhome

Here are your next steps for paperwork and staying organised (don’t forget you can download our FREE Europe motorhome travel checklist to keep organised)

Want to head to Europe with your motorhome?

Grab your FREE (printable) checklist and discover 25 things you NEED to take with you when you travel in Europe. Make your life easier today.

• Make sure your passport is in date (with 6 months left)
• Make sure your motorhome insurance covers Europe travel
• Read the rules for driving in Europe after BREXIT
• Get a green card (if required- check with your insurer)
• Motorhome logbook (the REAL one- not a copy)
• If the vehicle is company-owned, hired or leased, you need a letter from the company stating their permission for the vehicle to go to Europe.
• MOT (date of)
• Driving licence- yes, your UK driving licence is legal in Europe but you might need an International Driving Permit .
• MOTs & logbooks for any other vehicles you are taking (like our motorbikes)
• Trailer EU certification if necessary
• Animal health certificate for pets (read about how to take a pet to Europe after BREXIT )
• Personal Travel insurance
• Drone Insurance (read our review of the best travel drones here)
• Put together an EPIC road trip playlist
• Do your last minute vehicle checks
• Details of ferry/ train bookings
• For larger motorhomes visiting France, you might need blind spot warning stickers

Motorhome Insurance

You need motorhome insurance which covers travel in Europe (and other places like Morocco if you’re planning to venture further afield). You also might want to get Breakdown cover which includes recovery to Home- just in case the worst happens. Bring your original certificate with you, not a photocopy.

Health Insurance

The rules for health cover for UK residents in Europe have changed after BREXIT. You now MUST have travel insurance. Make sure you read the conditions carefully- many ‘cheap’ policies don’t cover you for more than a week or two at a time, so if you’re planning on going away for longer you’ll need to find an appropriate insurer. Ideally, get repatriation cover to the UK- just in case.

Europe Motorhome Travel- Essential items you need to carry

Unlike in the UK, there are some things you legally NEED to carry in your motorhome, campervan or car when you’re touring Europe. These essentials Europe travel accessories include:

• UK vehicle sticker or UK on your reg plate- with the British flag, not an EU circle
• First aid kit – did you know it is illegal to NOT stop at an accident in France and many other places in Europe?
• Warning Triangle
• Hi-vis jacket which must be easily reached without leaving the vehicle (or getting off a motorbike!) We recommend carrying one per person, including for toddlers.
• Spare light bulbs for vehicle
• Headlight deflectors as our UK headlamps are pointing the ‘wrong way’ for European roads-
• Radar detectors are forbidden EVERYWHERE in Europe.
• Motorhome speed stickers for some vans
• NO- you do not need a breathalyser.
• You might also need a red/ white striped reflective board if you have bicycles or a motorhome storage box.

Useful kit for travelling Europe in a Motorhome or camper

Assuming your van is already packed with these essential motorhome accessories , there are a couple of things which will make your life easier when touring Europe in a camper.

Motorhome Wi-Fi

Is wifi in a motorhome an essential? For us it is- we work from the road, so we need a reliable way to contact the outside world (and upload blog posts like this!) Our life just wouldn’t work if we didn’t have a decent Internet connection. 

For years, we had a wifi dongle in our motorhome and, quite seriously, it’s BRILLIANT. We’ve travelled all around Western Europe and it didn’t let us down once. Oh ok, it’s failed to get a signal just once and we were parked on the top of a mountain in the Swiss Alps at the time- I’m not sure I can blame it for that!!  

We use data SIMS with Vodafone, 3 and EE and we find EE and 3 to have the best coverage across Europe. You can buy Prepaid SIM cards of data from Amazon ( like this one ) or take out a monthly contract (which is what we did)

More recently, we’ve installed this internet system in our van and it has been equally good, although we haven’t been able to travel much to really test it out.

Data Roaming in Europe

If you are travelling outside your home country, you need to make sure that data roaming is enabled on your phone AND that you have a plan which allows you to use data in other countries cheaply.

You will also need to know how to avoid paying high charges for data roaming in Europe.

Also, be aware that the data limit you have at home will probably NOT be the same as your allowance abroad- so be cautious with how much you use. It’s hard to track data usage, but things like using maps, watching TV in your motorhome , streaming videos or putting photos on Facebook can all use up a LOT of data very quickly.

We highly recommend investing in a proper motorhome sat-nav before your start driving around Europe, especially if you have a larger motorhome, RV or campervan. You want something you can put your vehicle dimensions into and be able to avoid narrow roads, low bridges or weak crossings.

Here are some of the best motorhome and campervan sat-nav systems on the market- have a look and make sure you know how to use it before you set off.

Never, ever rely entirely on the sat-nav; keep an eye out for road signs and height restrictions as well. I also use my personal iPad or phone to find us an alternative route should we hit a traffic jam- both of those have ‘traffic’ setting enabled on them so we can see where the traffic is and how to get around it.

I often end up navigating our motorhome down tiny country lanes in the middle of nowhere- after all, it’s not a proper adventure unless there’s grass growing in the middle of the road!

Also, be careful where you mount your sat nav, especially if you’re using an ipad. Many countries now say it’s illegal to have the satnav mounted on the windscreen or blocking the driver’s view. We use this mount and mount our iPad on our dashboard, where it’s low enough to not cause any problems.

Campervanning in Europe – POWER!!!!

One of the joys of touring Europe in a Motorhome is the freedom that you can find on the continent which you just can’t get in the UK. Being able to stay off-grid in our van gives us that freedom. But, in order to do that, we need to manage our motorhome power requirements.

The solution to this is an inverter (and possibly a power pack, depending on how power-hungry you are!) We are VERY power hungry- we have two laptops, two iPads and 4 phones! ( Don’t ask!! Yes, I know there are only 2 of us!!)

We charge as much as we possibly can whilst we are driving the motorhome, including the laptops. We do this by running the invertor as we drive. The inverter is connected directly to the motorhome leisure battery and then we added a 2-plug extension lead, which allows us to charge our laptops on a drive, saving our precious battery power while we’re camped. 

We fitted and love this inverter but there are many other options out there if you need a different size/ power output.

I didn’t want a generator on our motorhome . I didn’t want to be THAT van with the generator going all evening, ruining everyone else’s peace and quiet. But, as my husband said, if we’re going to camp in the middle of nowhere for days at a time, we need an alternative power source ‘just in case’.

We’ve agreed that we will NEVER use it except in an emergency or for servicing, and we did a lot of research to find the best one for us in terms of noise levels and size. I have to say we’re really pleased with this one . It’s small enough to fit in a tiny cupboard under our seats and I can lift it with one hand.

We’ve used it several times of the past couple of years, including while touring Norway and Austria. We’re really impressed at how quiet it is and how well it works even after months of not being started! 

12v Hairdryer

Whilst we’re on the subject of power, both Jade (our daughter) and I have long hair. We love letting it air dry on hot summer days, but if we’re motorhoming in winter it’s essential for us to have a hairdryer.

RELATED: Planning winter motorhome living or a trip? Read this first…

Believe it or not, we actually carry TWO hairdryers onboard (much to my husband’s ‘delight’…)

One is a good, powerful but lowish wattage one we use when we have electric hookup, and the other is a 12v one , which plugs into a cigarette lighter socket in the cab. Honestly, it’s not the best hairdryer we’ve ever tried, but better than nothing on a cold winter’s day.

Alternatively, a rechargeable hairdryer .

Solar Panel

We do have a solar panel onboard our motorhome- we believe it’s an essential motorhome wild camping accessory. It keeps the battery topped up whilst we’re camping and allows us to stay off-grid for a little while longer- at least if it’s sunny!

One of our very first motorhome trips to Europe almost ended after 2 days due to…err… gas. Or rather, a lack of it and an inability to get any more! There are some important lessons we learned and things you need to know about how to find LPG (gas) in Europe .

To combat that ever happening again (we hope!!) , we fitted Gaslow refillable bottles . These went easily into our existing motorhome gas locker and we were able to fit them ourselves. We used them for the first time last week and we’re really happy with them. Filling took a little while to figure out- turns out you need to TWIST the nozzle clockwise, but so far, so good! We’ve now had these installed for a year and wouldn’t switch back- refillable gas is SO MUCH cheaper and easier while travelling Europe in a motorhome. 

Motorhome Touring in Europe – Other items which might be useful

ACSI is a scheme you can buy a membership to (like a motorhome club ), which then gives you massive discounts on campsites for motorhomes, campervans, RVs and Caravans- as long as you travel outside the peak seasons.

We LOVE our European toll pass. It’s sooooooo satisfying being able to sweep past all the huge queues at some of the tolls and go through the automated toll pass lane in France. It also works if you’re motorhome touring in Spain & Portugal. The best bit for us is not having to worry to find the change at each toll- it just sends you a bill at the end of the month which is paid automatically by Direct Debit so its one less thing we need to worry about!

We bought ours at Sanef Tolling, although they have now changed their name to Emovis-tag.

Tyres & Snow chains

If you are planning to go motorhome skiing or tour Europe in a motorhome in the Winter, think about your tyres and snow chains . It’s compulsory in most countries with Mountains (France, Germany etc) to have winter tyres fitted and to carry snow chains which will fit onto your tyres. This is usually enforced between 01 November and 15 April. This list by the AA gives a great guide for you.

Red and White reflective warning backboard for motorhomes/ campers

If you have anything extending past the back of your motorhome/ camper (like a bike rack or a tow bar), you MUST have a red and white striped backboard on the back. Make sure it’s the aluminium one, not the cheap version- the cheap version is not legal in Italy.

Travelling Europe in a Motorhome or campervan- Safety

Here are some important things to know about travelling in Europe

Emergencies

112 can be dialled anywhere in Europe in an emergency, accident or distress situation.

Security and theft

We have several things we do to protect our vehicle and our possessions whilst we’re travelling. We also have several things we do to safeguard ourselves if we’re back in the UK preparing for our next trip. Be sure to grab our FREE guide to motorhome security.   

We have been lucky to have never been the target of theft, but it does happen. Most thefts are opportunistic- if you leave something outside unattended there’s a chance it will be taken- just like in the UK. Also, if you park in busy, built-up areas, there is more chance of ‘unsavoury types’ spotting the van and taking their chances- just like in the UK.

We strongly believe that touring Europe in your motorhome is no more dangerous than touring in the UK, but common sense should be used. We’ve chosen to fit an additional motorhome door lock which can be locked from both the outside and the inside.

Try and get your Euros in advance as you’ll get a better rate than if you use the ferry/ tunnel. You can get money out of cash machines abroad- but, of course, there are charges for that.

Also, don’t forget that not every country in Europe uses Euros . Here are some popular ones which might catch you out!

• Bulgaria – Lev
• Croatia – Kuna
• Czech Republic – Kurona
• Denmark – Krone
• Hungary – Forint
• Norway- Krone ( See how expensive our trip to Norway was !)
• Poland – Zloty
• Romania – Leu
• Switzerland – Swiss Franc

There are others in the East as well- make sure you check in advance- but nearly everywhere has a cash machine so you can always get money out if you need to.

We think it’s sensible to carry a spare set of keys for the motorhome with us. We hope we will never need them, but a spare set is going to be completely useless sitting back in the UK. So we decided to bring them with us and keep them well out of the way.

Make sure you’re carrying enough Medication for you and any pets you have. We always carry a little more than necessary- just in case! Be prepared to explain your medication and prove what it is with a doctor’s note or something similar- just in case customs question you.

Mobile Phones

Using a phone whilst driving is illegal in many countries. It is also illegal in some countries (such as France) to use a headset with an earbud whilst driving. Your phone must be completely hands-free.

Driving in Europe- what to do in the event of a road traffic accident

You should have a European Claim Form provided by your insurer before you leave. In the event of an accident, all parties complete and sign the form at the scene and then send a copy to your insurer for assessment.

What to do at the scene:

• Stop your vehicle immediately but safely- out of the flow of traffic if possible.
• If a vehicle is blocking the road, use hazard lights and put the red warning triangle 30 metres from the scene to warn approaching traffic
• Name and address of all the people involved in the accident
• Vehicle registration numbers of all parties
• Insurance company details of all parties
• Take photos of damage using a camera, GoPro or phone

For more details, read our step-by-step guide on dealing with a road traffic accident in Europe

Motorhoming in Europe- Other Things to know

Sidelights must be switched on in the following countries at ALL times: Croatia , Denmark, Italy, Norway, Sweden & Switzerland

Daytime lights MUST be switched on for Motorbikes at ALL times in all conditions in ALL countries. Ours are wired so they automatically come on with the engine- saves us forgetting!

On-the-spot fines are common in all countries, although if you’re campervanning in Ireland the Police are not authorised to collect fines. Some places, like Croatia, give you 8 days to pay. Other places, such as if you go touring in Portugal , equip their police officers with an ATM to ensure fines are paid immediately!!

Be careful of low-emission zones and areas which require a congestion charge or something similar, such as Paris and London. These places are often clearly signed but it can be worth Googling requirements before you visit an area. Also, don’t forget you need a Vignette for Motorways/ toll roads in Switzerland and Austria. For a complete list of rules in each country, here’s the AA.

Touring Europe in a Motorhome – Final thoughts

Phew!!! There is a LOT of information in this post- and at first glance it can be overwhelming. None of it is ‘difficult’, but it will take up a bit of your time as you get it all organised. Here are some final tips to help you make the most of your big adventure!!

• Driving on the right is not as terrifying as it seems! Don’t forget- all the roads are set up for it- you don’t have to remember to go around the roundabout the wrong way- it naturally happens as that’s the way the road system works.
• Learn a little of the language. In France, Germany, Belgium and Holland, English is widely spoken, but they love it if you make an effort. After al, you are in their country and if you show a little respect to them they will really help you when you need it.
• Accept that you are a tourist- you will make mistakes and probably look like an idiot. But that’s part of the fun of travelling!
• Learn to ‘slow travel’- travelling by van is about the journey as much as the destination . This can be hard when you’re on a tight schedule, but try not to overbook your time so much that you can’t relax a little or explore random things that you find along the way- like an ice cave we randomly found in France…??!!
• Having said that, do a little research as you travel so you don’t miss some amazing places. We like to pick an area and then Google it to see what great adventures are waiting for us.

New to motorhome or camper travel in Europe? You might find these posts helpful:

See all our Europe motorhoming posts here

NEED GEAR? If you need any kit or essentials for motorhoming in Europe, here’s what we recommend and where to find it

I hope you have the BEST adventures- be sure to tag me in your posts and show me where you end up! Let me know what you think of the guide in the comments below- I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Want to save this list for later? Here’s the pin. Enjoyed this post? We’d love it if you shared it on Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest. Thank you!

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

Last update on 2024-04-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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55 comments.

Lots of great info there. Thank you. 🙂

You’re very welcome! Hope it helps with your upcoming adventures!!

This is fatastic Kat and very timely. We are travelling in September to France & Switzerland in a hired van (before we buy our own yipeeee) so we were just starting to get our heads around all the planning. This is perfect as you have done all the work for us, so thank you so much for that. You are a star 🙂 x

Great information – thanks! When you were wild/free camping, did people have much camping stuff out in the off-season? As we’re going to be in a fifth wheel it’ll be a bit cramped if we can’t push a slide or two out!

People happily sit outside and enjoy a campfire and dinner, but don’t get awnings and things out when they’re wild camping. Those places are more designed to be a one night stop. I think you’ll be fine with the slides, though I admit we haven’t seen any fifth wheels on our travels- you’ll probably have loads of people wanting to come and have a look inside!! 🙂 I think as long as it looks like you’re not planning to stop for a week, you’ll be fine. Of course, if you end up somewhere really remote,you won’t have a problem as no one will see!!

Yes, we’re basically hoping that in the off-season it’ll be quiet enough to pop the slides out and the support legs down. We’re thinking that keeping the truck attached will make us a bit more ‘ready to go’ should the need arise on the aires – though as you say, if we’re somewhere remote and out the way we might stay a bit longer 🙂

Thank you for sharing this journey with us! We would love to pack up and head off in an RV but were hesitant with (coming up) teenage children – I can’t wait to follow your journey and see how you go 🙂

Hi Ange- thanks so much for reading and commenting. Honestly, if I had my time again I’d take my daughter out of school at 12/13 or maybe even a few years younger and travel with her- I think it’s such an amazing way for them to learn and grow. Hope you enjoying following our travels. 🙂

We are from Port Elizabeth, South Africa. My family (me, wife two kids 11, 9) will be hiring a camper for 20 days in December in Munich and plan to drive the black forest route and down to Rome via Switzerland and back to Munich. Do you have any experience of the cold in that time and how hired campers hold up? Will we find sites open that time of the year and do you know if there will be any exciting activities for the kids, with exception of viewing architecture and views? Any other advice?

Thanks for the awesome info!

What an exciting adventure you have planned! Funnily enough, we’re going to Munich in December too! 🙂 As you probably guessed, your experience is going to completely depend on the weather and how much snow has fallen so far. You will DEFINITELY need a camper with heating, so make sure your rental has that fitted (you’d be surprised how many don’t!) You will also need snow tyres/ snow chains- even if it hasn’t snowed. This should be provided- but please check. Also, do you know that most hire campers don’t come with bed linen/ towels and sometimes not even pots & pans? It depends entirely on your rental company of course, but it’s something to check.

If it’s a relatively modern camper with heating, you should be just fine in the cold. You are right that many campsites shut, but if you check out the sites I listed, you’ll be able to find the ones which stay open. Regarding activities for kids, it depends what kind of things they like. Our daughter is quite happy sitting in the van, listening to her music and watching the world go by. There will be plenty of walks- just be careful with the weather. Also, places like swimming pools, leisure centres and bowling alleys will all still be open, as will most theme parks- but please check in advance. You might find many roads in the mountains have been shut but there should always be an alternative route which is open. Hope that helps! Have a great time. 🙂

So just a report back. We didn’t see you In Germany but what an adventure we had. Munich, Black Forest, rhine falls, Lucerne, Italy all the way to Rome and back up to Venice, finishing in Rome. 3300km.

Your advice re the heating was spot on. I can recommend Indie Campers to your readers. They were amazing and friendly. The episode on the parking apps was a game changer. We used Park4night- amazing for piece-of-mind.

Come tour South Africa! It’s great here. It’ll blow your mind!

Keep on camping!

Peter, Susan and kids

AMAZING! Thank you so much for giving me an update- it’s so fun to hear it’s all gone well. So glad you had a great experience. We would LOVE to tour South Africa- what’s the best time to visit to see big cats (a dream of mine!) Take care x

No real best time, they are always around but June, July, August is great for Kruger Park (dry season) which is a must do. It’s a huge reserve which requires at least a week or two to properly see. There are many many sanctuaries though, where they have rescued cats and cubs (cheetahs and lions). Good opportunity to cuddle little hand-reared cubs. If you go camper vanning here, and you have the time, I would begin and end in Cape Town.

Our Neigbours also offer a lot in spectacular views and wildlife. Namibia ?? , Botswana ?? , Zimbabwe ??, Mozambique ?? , not to mention the kingdoms of Lesotho ?? (incorporating the beautiful Drakensburg mountains) and Swaziland ??

We live in Port Elizabeth which has amazing beaches and lovely world class private game reserves and is the gateway to the garden route which takes you back to Cape Town.

I’m presently researching camper hire beacause I haven’t even seen a lot of what I’ve just described to you. I imagine a full round trip would require between 6000 and 10000 km so not for the faint hearted. We drive on the lefthand side (previously a British colony). Van Hire options seem limited (bobocampers, and Maui seem the best) and strangely more expensive than Europe.

If we do take on the endeavor, I’ll let you know.

Great info, thanks for the effort. Lots of details still for us to consider and heating has now become an important one for me.

I assumed the dashboard heater was the only one available and would require you to be driving or idling. What kind of heating is generally available which I should insist upon? Like fuel pellets or gas?…or electric heater to use when plugged in?

Most motorhomes have gas heating and this is preferable if possible. If you have electric heating you won’t be able to use it unless you are plugged in at a campsite- and not all campsites with electric will be open at that time of year. The dashboard heating at the front won’t be enough to heat the back so the kids will freeze- and it will be COLD in December. Like, really cold. I assume the rental company has modern (ish) vans, so they should all have heating throughout. Make sure you have the appropriate attachments to be able to refill with gas in the various countries you are going to- each country in Europe seems to need a different attachment!!

last week i make a tour of europe and get guideline throgh this channel. that is best way. so here i will recommend to others also that before travel please read this article.

Thank you Bella- I’m so pleased to have helped you! How did you enjoy your tour??

Thanks for this Kat – we are traveling from Paris to Rome in October. Our family (2 adults and 2 children who will be 8 and nearly 7) are flying in from Australia and renting a van from Indie campers. We want to stay at the cheaper aires in both France and Italy but we will need power/water, as the van only has 50L of water in it, and we’ll have our iPads and phones to charge and no inverter as we are traveling from overseas, is this possible? Can you suggest in particular?

Hi Heather- that sounds fun! You’ll find many aires/ sostas have fresh water available. Also, you can always pull into one during the day to refill, then drive off again. If you’re careful, 50L might last a couple of days- you may want to buy bottled water to drink. You should be able to pick up a cheap 12v phone/ipad charger- maybe from a garage or hardware shop- this should allow you to charge phones etc as you drive- leaving you free to camp wherever you like! Hope that helps!

Hi, just a brilliant article for all all first timers. You covered everything that one needs to be aware of and I’m extremely grateful. Thank you. One thing though, what is the ‘approximate’ cost of taking this trip? I maybe missed this, so apologies if this was the case. Best of wishes and happy trails for 2019.

Hi Amanda- I’m glad you found the post useful. Costs are difficult to predict as they can include/ not include a variety of things. I broke down our costing for a 2-week trip here- https://wandering-bird.com/cost-tour-europe-motorhome/ which you might find useful. 🙂

Great blog… we plan to travel with 4 young kids for a year around Europe but scared we need a biig vehicle and don’t think it would take well to the roads in Europe

Do you have any experience with American style winnebagos over 8m in length and if we could still get around without too much trouble?

Hi Devon. I don’t have any personal experience with Winnebagos but we have seen a few whilst touring. You’ll need to be very careful where you stop. Length isn’t an issue (we’re over 9m with our trailer), but width might be a problem at aires and even on some campsites. Also take into account toll costs- if you are over 3m in height it increases the toll costs considerably. Good luck!

What’s up to all, because I am truly keen of reading this web site’s post to be updated daily. It consists of good information.

Where the best place to buy the motorhome?

Hi Shon- check out our post on advice to buy a motorhome- you’ll find that helpful.

Hi Kat , It’s me again ….picking your brains ! We are touring for a year but doing it in 4 and 3 month chunks , coming back for 3/4 weeks inbetween each chunk for Xmas and to see elderly parents and sons , grandkids , really struggling to find travel insurance for this type of tour , can you recommend a company that could accommodate us ?

Hi, Really enjoyed reading the advice. We are planning a trip late summer 2020. What is the protocol/experience with a Motorhome for large cities. Where do you park, is it safe to leave at a campsite all day, should you find a campsite near a train station. Is this easy to do, or am I complicating the planning? Thanks

Hi! So pleased you enjoyed the article. We recommend not trying to drive your motorhome into a city (we did that in Edinnburgh- it wasn’t pretty!) Instead, find a campsite (or aire if in Europe) which is near a bus or train station and go in that way. Campsites are generally safer than aires, but take your valuables with you, including passports. We’ve left our motorhome in both campsites and aires all day without any problem whatsoever. Have a great trip!

great blog thanks for sharing.

Thanks for all the info, really helpful. I am planning a trip through Europe August 2020 for my parents and I and we are planning on getting a campervan, we have one here in NZ so we are comfortable with the set up and all that. Just wondering what you think would be best for going into the bigger cities with a Camper, is it best to find a spot outside a city (Rome, Paris etc..) and then train/bus in to sightsee for the day of is it not too difficult to navigate and find parks in the city centres? I figure if we do this we would need to pay for a campgroud so the campervan would be secure while we are sightseeing…???

Hi Kelly! Absolutely- we try to avoid driving into cities at all costs. We went into Edinburgh with our motorhome and trailer… it was not pretty! Most cities in Europe have a campsite nearby or near a train/ bus station. In Europe you can probably find an Aire, where the van should be fairly safe (of course, nothing is guaranteed and read the reviews of the Aire first.) In the UK, you’ll probably need a paid campsite as there aren’t many aires sadly. I hope you have a wonderful time! Let me know how it goes!!

This is so helpful to someone inexperienced (like me). Can you please tell me if winter tyres and/or snow chains are necessary to travel through France and down through Spain leaving before Brexit and returning in March? I am so confused.

Hi Debra, I think I already answered this in an email to you, but if you need more help please feel free to ask. 🙂

Looking forward to planning a year out around Europe in 2020/2021 and have already learned so much from your extensive information, thank you. Now planning to buy a motor home and will be taking all your advice. This will be our travel Bible.

Thanks Erick- let me know how it goes!

This has been a long read but very helpful, informative read it all dont skim through it. Brilliant every thing you need to know this is my first time , going to France I am 74 so have no worries now. Thanks.

Fantastic Keith. You will love France! Let me know how it goes!!

Hey there! We’re about to embark on our first campervan trip in March driving from Tuscany through Italy and France to England. We were going to just use google maps, but do you think a sat nav would def be better? We live in Australia and have done lots of campervanning in Oz and NZ – but never in Europe / UK!

Hey- great question! I think it depends on the size of the campervan. If it’s a small van, no higher than 2m, then you should be fine with a normal car sat-nav or Google maps. If you want to avoid low bridges and tight roads, a proper sat nav is essential- especially in Italy where roads can be a bit… crazy!! Have an amazing trip!!

thanks so much for all this info, we’ve been on the road now for a few weeks and really enjoying it! Would you have any tips for insurers please? We’re currently on our basic insurance that allows us to go abroad for three months but we’re looking for an insurance to cover us for a year or more. We’ve tried Adrian Flux already, which didn’t work. Thanks 🙂

Loved reading this and was hoping to get some help as you guys are pros . In a few months its tge euros football finals and I’d like to do so e of it by campervan. Passing through countries I never would before and watching random games to . Any thoughts on how to plan my route.

I’m guessing get dates of games and do it that way but you might have a better idea,

Thank you any help would be great

this is amazing post thanks for haring information with us

You’re very welcome- glad you enjoyed it

Thanks for this. Great post- I learnt a lot

What’s your opinion on motorhomes that have a place to store a motorcycle vs pulling a trailer?

I think I’d love one… except that we’d lose our end lounge, which we love and also there’s no way we could fit ours bikes inside- they’re both 900’s and way too heavy for the van. But if you’re happy with a smaller, lighter bike and a garage, it’s a great option.

I have been reading several articles on this topic for a while now but the points on which you have built this post are totally awesome. Thanks for that.

Hi, loads of great information which is really helpful to anyone setting out on the great adventure. We started out in 2011 and spent nine years full-timing in our Dethleffs Alpa (rear lounge and a garage!). There’s a couple of things which I think might be helpful. You don’t mention the Efoy system when talking about generators and off-grid power requirements. The Efoy is a silent running 12v generator which is completely “green” and runs on methanol. It’s an expensive initial outlay (about £3,500) but it’s a life-saver and allows indefinite off-grid living. Second thing is, open a Euro bank account with Credit Agricole. It’s called “Britline” and has English speaking helpers. If you don’t want to do that, use a UK credit card which doesn’t charge for foreign transactions. We use Nationwide. Of course, everything’s changed now with Brexit and the “90 in, 90 out” rule which will greatly affect people like us who want to spend most of the year travelling in Europe. If you’re interested in my way of avoiding this restriction just let me know.

Your advices for tours in Europa are very good. We are from Germany and I think you have absolutely nothing forgotten in your guide.

Thank you- glad you enjoyed it. We love Germany 🙂

Great article, we are following a very similar path to yours (living on a narrow boat, I have finished work and my husband is still working for now). Have you any thoughts on the 90 days in 180 rules post Brexit? We “were” planning to leave and not come back for a very long time!

Giving up my job in London in April 2024 to re-start my life with my wife and our dog Dougal, i’m so depressed and need to escape. The work starts now clearing the house out for rental, saving as much money as possible and finding the right camper to buy, we might start off in the UK, travel up though Scotland and then hit Europe for the winter. Our parents are 70-80 and the thought of not being near them when they need us and been holding us back but I have to do it for my own sanity. Thanks for all the tips, I have a lot more reading to do!

Good luck to you! Let me know how it goes 🙂

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Planning An RV Trip In Europe? Read This First!

Last Updated on July 5, 2023

Table of Contents

Europe is definitely one of the most traveled continents in the world.

In fact, most travelers who do visit Europe arrive there by sea, by air, or by train. Students, nomads, and passerby who drive through the region will tell you that it was one of their best experiences in life.

RVing in Europe is a thrilling and adventurous way to travel. Seeing the best part of Europe by driving is that unique opportunity you may never get otherwise.  It’s an opportunity to see a side of Europe that may be missed if you go by air or sea. (In the US, it’s called RVing and in Europe, it’s called Campervan or Caravan if you didn’t know that already.)

RVing through Europe

Traveling Europe with a campervan or RV will most likely cost a bit less even though gas prices are higher than in the U.S. Traveling in a recreational vehicle is far more exciting though when you want to see the real country. 

How much does it cost to travel by Camper in Europe?

Approximately it is $500 per week to stay in Europe at a cheaper hotel or motel and about $200 daily per couple. For a family of four, that’s more than $280 daily. Then you have to pay for all your transportation.

When you travel with a camper, your transportation and lodging are included in your total. Renting a smaller camper van costs around $60-90/day. You have to consider driving though. If you want to drive a lot, you will have to pay for gas which is way more expensive over there. BUT the distances in Europe are smaller. You can be in a different country with a few hours of drive. 

However, in my opinion, because of high gas prices, and narrower roads a road trip in Europe is not as much fun as in the USA. It is way better to travel in a low gas mileage car and stay at Airbnb-s or hotels. Especially in the shoulder season. You get to drive more comfortably and see more. As a drawback, you won’t have your own bed with you. 🙂 

Where to park your RV for the night in Europe?

It may be free to stay on the side of any road, but that can be dangerous. In some countries like Iceland or England is ok, but you need to make sure that the area is safe.

Campgrounds are your best bet. It’s safer and you will have a chance to make friends with other campers. Plus they have all the amenities you’ll need. European RVs are much smaller than US RVs. Most of them are van-sized or small about the same as an American Class B+. It is really difficult to navigate a large RV in Europe; the local roads are not made for large vehicles. Before you stay at a campground, contact them and ask them about their requirements. They may only accept camper vans or pop-ups. Here is a campsite directory with lots of European campsite listings. With that in mind, you can stay at a campground for an average cost of $30 a night (or $45 in “busy season” during summer. Many campgrounds are not open in the winter )

How to find an RV rental in Europe?

There are several campervan rental places in Europe. You can find local ones in the countries you plan to visit. Here are a couple of international RV rental places:

• ukandeuropetravel.com/”kandeuropetravel.com/
• wickedcampers.com/”ickedcampers.com/

Driving Your RV in Europe

It may be wise if it is your first European vacation to study all the highways and the road rules. Do this for each country you plan to drive through and learn about any “extra rules” for driving an RV in Europe. For example, driving on the left side in England is that “extra rule” to keep in mind. There are also those small towns or villages which can be very narrow for you to drive through if you have a larger RV.

Finally, when traveling around the world, seeing it through the back roads will be one of the most exciting ways of discovering Europe. You can stop at any time, anywhere, and have all your stuff with you. If you already enjoy the RV lifestyle , or if you just want to discover a new continent a different way, you should really try to drive a camper across Europe. 

Camping holidays in Europe

Last update on 2024-04-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Road tripping through Europe with a campervan in 2024 (Itinerary)

With another eventful year behind us, where our trips were less wild and our adventures less spontaneous than they used to be. A year where we were constantly inspired by the beautiful pictures and crazy videos that our social media algorithms presented us.

Since we knew the roads would be calmer in November so we decided to follow our ‘Saved Instagram pictures’ and enjoy a wonderful autumn trip through Europe.

Our bucket list took us from the outskirts of Brussels to gorgeous medieval German castles, from the astonishing Dolomites to the picturesque Venice, and finally from fashionable Milan to the peaceful Strasbourg – How is that for an adventure?

In this itinerary, we’ve listed all the info you’ll need for a road trip through Europe with a campervan; what items to pack, how to rent a campervan, itinerary ideas, and finally: some tips for a fantastic adventure on the road.

Page Contents

Our road trip summarized in numbers. 

• 1x stuck in the Italian snow
• Crossed 7 country borders
• 0 Speeding tickets
• … a thousand new adventures and stories to tell about

The roadtrip

After an earlier adventure in which we discovered the Dolomites with a campervan , we immediately knew that we wanted to travel the same way; through Europe with a campervan! 

As we see it, this is the easiest solution to travel through various countries while still complying with all the COVID measurements and having a minimal risk for infection; we’d stay in our own bubble while still having all the comfort we needed: large beds, a small kitchen, and even a shower!

Our goal would be to drive from Brussels to Venice and back while discovering the most fabulous places we could find; after all, we had an immense amount of inspiration and a huge bucket list of places to visit. 

Essentials for a road trip in a campervan

Are you planning to go on a campervan road trip, but want to make sure you have the essentials with you? We briefly listed the essentials that made sure our trip was a success.

Ecoflow River Pro Powerstation

As content creators, we’re always haunted by our fear of not having enough power, from the fear of being stranded in the middle of nowhere without a GPS to the fear of having a dying camera battery just when you’re about to shoot your favorite location. 

Either way: We’ve all been there, so we all know these are valid worries! No wonder why one of Google’s top road trip-related searches is about finding or generating power. While there are various solutions, we found one that put our minds at ease before starting our road trip; The Ecoflow River Pro Powerstation !

In essence, the Ecoflow River Pro is a massive power bank with 2 AC power outlets and a few USB connections, generating enough power to charge our Macbook M1 Pro laptop 13 times, our smartphone 58 times, and our Sony A7III camera over 30 times. Due to its dimensions, the River Pro can usually last 8 hours, being a massive help for every road trip.

When you’re planning to cross various borders or wander around mountain passes, you’ll have to switch radio stations regularly, or you’ll end up with noise. Our trick? Make sure everyone has made their own Spotify playlist in advance! That way, you won’t be bothered by the noise and leave room for spontaneous singalong moments to occur.

Data Roaming

If you are located in Europe and are traveling through various countries, you’ll need to ensure that your data roaming is enabled on your phone to keep having an internet connection. 

You shouldn’t worry about the amount of roaming you use, thanks to the European Union’s roaming regulations which say data providers can’t charge for roaming in the European Union. However, keep in mind: Switzerland is not included in this regulation! So don’t forget to turn off your Data Roaming when entering Switzerland.

What have we learned about road tripping through Europe with a campervan?

Our campervan trip through Europe confirmed something we already knew: that it’s very easy to travel between European countries. A 100 kilometers drive can bring you to a different cultural and diverse community.

Next to this, we had a few other learnings as well. 

The ease of a camping site with decent facilities

While traveling in a sustainable campervan, you’ve got different options in terms of camping:

• You could visit an official campsite which has loads of facilities.
• You could park overnight at Highway stops.
• You could wild camp and stay at a new place every night.

Most European countries have different rules and regulations about camping, but generally, they (Switzerland, Italy,…) aren’t allowing wild camping … which makes it technically illegal. However, in most cases, overnight parking where you don’t set up camp or leave in less than 24 hours is allowed. 

Our tip? Make sure you can drive off at any moment so that nobody can complain about it.

The thing is: If you’re on the road for over a week, you’ll need to clean your campervan and want a more luxury shower. Don’t hesitate to stop wild camping and pause at a camping site with decent facilities. 

The ease of planning

Being prepared for your campervan trip ensures that you can switch gears faster and need to spend less time worrying. The things that helped us a lot were:

• Backup locations. Since we used our itinerary as a guideline, we had the flexibility to skip specific locations because of bad weather. Having backup locations made it less of a hassle to find hidden gems.
• Ecoflow River Pro . We knew we would probably wild-camp a lot, which meant not having the power to charge our electronic devices (laptop, camera,…). Luckily our friends at Dutchtravelshop.nl hooked us up with this mobile power station, which we didn’t have to recharge one single time during our 8-day trip.

The costs Tolls and Vignettes

Something we have underestimated is the fact that most European countries have toll roads, which can make your trip very expensive very fast. Luckily, there are exceptions, such as Germany, Netherlands, and Belgium.

Some countries such as Austria and Switzerland are working with a vignette, which is a prepaid motorway toll in the form of a sticker you typically purchase from petrol stations before you cross the border and which you stick on your windscreen.

Alternatively, you can always avoid tolls by picking alternative routes on Google Maps or Waze, but these will guide you through the smaller roads, resulting in a slower and longer route. 

Our tip? If you have the time, save your money and go for the slower, more scenic route. If you’re in a hurry or have a tight schedule: go via the tollways.

Our road trip Itinerary

Since the lockdown started, we’ve been saving Instagram pictures of destinations that inspired us and deserved a place on our bucket list. We’ve added them all to a Google Maps collection and started planning the regions we wanted to visit.

From there on, we casually decided that we wanted to visit the Dolomites, Venice, and Milan. Because the beauty of a road trip in a campervan is that you can make up your itinerary along the way: when you’re experiencing bad weather, you can just start a few 100 km’s and adjust your itinerary as you go.

Additionally, once your start to post Instagram stories or timeline pictures of your trip, people will automatically start to recommend locations that weren’t on your bucket list to start with!

Remember that our style is to have a flexible road trip itinerary and adjust our planning accordingly. As a result, we’ll need an internet connection during our trip, which can’t always be found when traveling to rural destinations like the dolomites.

DAY 1 – Getting started

Our first day was mainly focused on picking up our campervan, unpacking the bags, and learning how to drive the campervan properly. Ultimately we already wanted to drive to our first location so that we could start our hike early!

Pickup Campervan in Brussels

We started our trip by picking up the campervan in Brussels in the afternoon, where we finally met the owners of the campervan face-to-face, received an extensive explanation of how the campervan functions, and finally managed the paperwork (for example; noting down the milage of the car, check for damages, etc).

After unpacking our bags and filling the drawers, we started driving towards our adventure! We left Brussels around 3 pm and drove straight to our first stop in Rheinland-Pfalz. Just when we crossed the steep hills of Malmedy, darkness fell over the highway, and fog started to appear. 

Since the darkness prevented us from sightseeing opportunities, we quickly arrived at our first stopover and sleeping place – the “Wanderparkplatz” in Nothweiler on the German-French border . This parking is located in the middle of the woods, which explains why we came across some wild boars on our way to the parking spot.

Wegelnburg – Wanderparkplatz Nothweiler

After (wild) parking at Wanderparkplatz Nothweiler, we looked up at the sky and noticed how beautiful the stars were in the sky. We decided to unpack our Nanlite Pavotube II’s light tubes and used them to illuminate the (unlit) hiking trail, looking for the perfect spot to stargaze.

We decided to follow the winding hiking trail that crosses the German-French border until we found an open spot, which we used to capture the stars.

Day 2 – Chasing castles

We knew in advance that during our road trip to Venice, we had to pass through the German provinces of Rhineland-Palatinate and Baden-Württemberg. Both regions are known for their medieval castles, of which most have a panoramic view.

Our goal was to visit the most impressive castles on our route to Venice.

Wegelnburg, Germany

Wegelnburg , a ruined castle located in a forest on the French-German border, is best known for its panoramic view and incredible sunrise.

We wanted to witness that specific 7 am sunrise, so to observe this, we had to start our hike at 6 am, where we followed the zigzagging hiking trail to the Wegelnburg. This took us 5 kilometers, regularly crosses the German-France border, and passes by several other ruins on its way. The hike was covered in darkness since the sun was still about to set, making it an authentic experience. However: seeing the sunbeams roll over the mountains with such a fantastic panoramic view was just … unreal.

Be aware tho: the entrance of Wegelnburg is surrounded by fencing, so at first, we thought it was closed to visitors, but nothing could be further from the truth!

We found a shorter hiking trail on our way back, which brought us directly to the village, only 200 meters walk to the Wanderparkplatz Nothweiler. 

Schloss Lichtenstein, Germany

To make our route to Venice even more interesting, we aimed to visit interesting stopovers every 2 to 3 hours (+- 200 to 300 km). In this instance, we drove towards Schloss Lichtenstein : a 12th-century fortress built on top of an 800-meter high cliff.

We noticed that the castle was managed from a commercial point of view, where everything involved a cost: parking, entering the courtyard, etc. 

Nevertheless, the panoramic view over the valley and the fantastic color palette of the surrounding trees, hills, and valley made it worthwhile. It also struck us how beautifully everything had been restored and how detailed they had for their sculptures.

Hohenzollern Castle, Germany

Located less than 40 kilometers from Schloss Lichtenstein, you can find Germany’s most visited castle: Hohenzollern Castle! The castle has been known as “The Crown of all Castles” ever since 1267. Reason enough for us to visit it and admire it with our own eyes!

Our tight itinerary wouldn’t allow us to stop by the Hohenzollern Castle for an extended visit, so we decided to admire the castle from Zeller Horn’s legendary viewpoint ; It’s the mountain range located about 1.5 kilometers away, at the same height as the fortress. As a result, you have the best view of the castle and the surrounding area.

We have to be honest tho: it took us a while to find the exact location of the Zeller Horn viewpoint, but once we found it … we loved it! You can judge for yourself … 

Plansee, Austria 

While we had already discovered some of the most amazing places, we decided to push our luck: our goal was to visit Plansee lake, located just beyond the Austrian border, and search for its very instagrammable viewpoint that looks down over the lake.

Unfortunately, a combination of traffic jams and mandatory stops (buying our Highway Vignette to enter Austria) caused us to arrive just after sunset. We learned during our road trip through the mountains that as soon as the sun has set, it’ll be pitch dark in a matter of minutes. The same goes for our visit to the Plansee lake: as soon as we crossed the bridge, we couldn’t move without using our Nanlite lights.

After our short stop at the lake, we decided to continue our journey to a place to sleep for the night: the legendary Innsbruck city.

Innsbruck city

We’ve visited Innsbruck city numerous times, and we may even say that it’s our favorite city in Austria. This is because of its beautiful mountain background, architectural gems, alternative culture, and Innsbruck’s importance on the winter sports community.

Once we arrived, we decided to head downtown to reminisce memories from the past and see how the historic buildings (such as the Liberation Monument on Landhausplatz and the building with the golden roof) are lit up at night.

We decided to end our evening at the Hard Rock cafe to explore the same downtown area the next day after dawn before the shops opened.

Day 3 – Arriving in the Dolomites

During our previous road trip, we visited the Dolomites and missed out on a few of our bucket-list locations. Since the Dolomites were only a slight detour from our route to Venice, we decided to give some of these places a second chance … but not before we wandered around Innsbruck first! 

Innsbruck, Austria

Imagine the feeling of waking up, opening the doors of your campervan, and looking out across the streets of Innsbruck with their impressive mountains as a backdrop. Well, that’s precisely how we woke up!

After a quick shower in our campervan, we decided to wander around the city again and rediscover the same historic buildings, but this time using daylight. 

Another reason why we stayed in Innsbruck is that we’ve been following Holzkern Watches on Instagram for ages and noticed we could visit their shop in Innsbruck. We made an appointment, and were welcomed by their store manager Stefan who explained to us more about Holzkern’s philosophy and lifestyle, showed us how an automatic watch works and how to replace the chains of a wristband.

During our visit to the store, we fell for the charms of the La Concorde watch and the Intergalactic watch , which we took home as a reminder of our road trip.

MMM Corones

Since we visited the Dolomites last year, the MMM Corones (being designed by Zaha Hadid) have been on the top of our bucket list. When we entered the region around the Dolomites, we noticed that the lakes weren’t frozen and the roads were not covered with snow … so our first reaction was to visit MMM Corones.

Unfortunately: the ski lifts were closed because the season hadn’t started yet, and the roads were now permanently closed and accompanied by prohibition signs. So one thing is sure: MMM Corones can only be visited in a dignified manner when the ski lifts are open.

With pain in our hearts, we had to make a cross over our visit from MMM Corones, but luckily there are plenty of other places to visit in the region … so we decided to drive to the legendary Lago di Braies .

Lago di Braies

Lago Di Braies – also known as Pragser Wildsee – is the biggest lake in the Dolomites and is known as the most beautiful lake of the Alps because it’s surrounded by beautiful pine forests, towering limestone peaks, and included a unique boathouse. As a result, most people know it as (“Lago di Instagram”). 

The last time when we visited the lake, it was totally frozen and covered in snow. This setting certainly had its charm, but we also wanted to visit Lago di Braies before the snow fell. Unfortunately, there was so much fog that we still couldn’t admire the lake in its best condition. Next time!

St. Johann church in Villnostal

Noticing that the sunset was approaching fast, we decided to revisit one of the most legendary sites in the Dolomites: St. Johann in Ranui Church in Val di Funes, Villnostal.

While driving over the winding roads, we noticed that the weather conditions would be utterly different from our previous visit: there wouldn’t be any snow, but the church and its surroundings were covered in fog. 

Unfortunately, we didn’t notice too much of the sunset since the fog blocked all the sunbeams. By the time we left the church, it was already pitch dark.

Alpe di Siusi & Earth Pyramids Renon

We decided to drive up to Compatsch to experience the sunrise at Alpe di Siusi to save some time. Last time, we missed this view since it’s located in a nature resort and has a curfew for cars: no-one can drive by between 9 am and 5 pm.

This time, we could access the road to Compatsch, but while we were driving up the mountain, it started to snow, almost to the level of a snowstorm. When we arrived in Compatsch, our van got stuck, and a local farmer had to pull us out of the snow. 

According to the local weather forecast, it would snow for the entire night, and we would miss the sunrise anyway since it would be covered in fog. In fear of getting stuck, we decided to go back down the mountain and skip our visits to both Alpe di Siusi and the Earth Pyramids of Renon. 

We ended up spending the night at a truck stop next to the road.

Day 4 – The road to Venice

We knew it wouldn’t be the shortest route to Venice, but we decided to drive via Santuario Madonna Della Corona and Lake Garda since it captured our imagination.

Santuario Madonna Della Corona 

What’s more astonishing than an ancient place of worship, located 800 meters into the side of a cliff? We wanted to experience it, so we drove towards Santuario Madonna Della Corona, only a 15 minutes drive from Lake Garda (the Italian part)!

We parked at Localita Santuario 1 in Spiazzi, on a parking lot that usually wouldn’t allow campervans and mobile homes, but we decided to risk it since it was empty. The reason for this might be the thick fog that stood over the mountain, on the fact that it’s not the most touristic period to visit Santuario Madonna Della Corona.

Although we could not fully admire the Santuario Madonna Della Corona due to the thick fog, the location continued to impress us. We also had the opportunity to check our fitness by climbing the steep stairs to access the sanctuary.

After arriving, we learned that this sanctuary is a place of pilgrimage that already existed before the year 1000! We’ve listed our findings in this specific destination article about Santuario Madonna Della Corona .

Lagi di Garda

In less than 24 hours, we went from a small snowstorm in the Dolomites to a 20-degree summer breeze at Lake Garda. 

The small town was quite dead, considering the tourist season was already over here, so we just briefly wandered through the city. Our goal was to catch the sunset in Venice before 5 pm anyway, so we quickly left the lake.

Venice City

Where we spent the past few days in quiet or remote regions, with endless possibilities to park and wild camping … Venice would be a bit more crowded and strict. That’s why we decided to spend the night at the campsite of Venezia village, which had some fantastic facilities: decent showers, an elegant restaurant, and a clean swimming pool. 

An additional advantage was that there is a bus stop in front of the campsite, with busses that go directly to Venice. The ride to the city takes no longer than fifteen minutes and drops you off at Piazzale Roma.  

By 4 pm we arrived at the tourist center, where we were overwhelmed by history and architecture! Strolling with our camera in hand, we followed the small corridors of the city, arriving at a (relatively empty) San Marco square just after sunset.

Unfortunately, The darkness brought in some shady types, from aggressive salespeople who punched us on the shoulder to get our attention to pickpockets popping up from sketchy streets and following us until we noticed them. As a result, we decided to skip the rest of the city and return the following day.

Pro-tip; Gelateria il Doge’s ice creams are known as the best in the old town.

Day 5 – From Venice to Milan

By now, our road trip was already halfway through, so after enjoying Venice’s charms in the morning, we had to start on our way back. This time we chose to spend the night in the city of Milan since we wanted to discover some of their ancient buildings as well.

Be aware: Something we didn’t realize before going on this trip is how many toll stops you can find in Italy, especially between Venice and Milan.

Venice, the city of canals

Since we ended our wanderings around Venice early the night before, we decided to sleep in first… and then head back into the city!

This time we parked our campervan in Venezia Tronchetto Parking because we were only planning to stay in the city for a few hours. Ultimately, we stayed for 4 hours and realized that we had paid more for this parking spot (without any facilities except) than staying an extra night in the camping Venezia Village. Yikes!

Unlike the previous evening, where we walked to San Marco square via Basilica S.Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, we now had the time to take a different route: via Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute.

Milan and its impressive Duomo di Milano

Since we took our time to wander around Venice, we arrived in Milan during rush hour and had to endure several traffic jams before arriving in “Camping Village city of Milan.”

The campsite’s reception was already closed, but luckily google maps had a function that allowed us to know perfectly see what public transport connections would lead us to the Duomo di Milano. Our trip was a bit more delicate since we needed to transfer from the bus to the metro, in a place we had never visited before. Luckily we had google maps to fall back on.

Since this route to the center of Milan took almost an hour commute, we only found the time to discover the illuminated cathedral and the neighboring streets. To make it easy for us, we also made a quick McDonalds stop here.

Day 6 – From Milan to Strasbourg

We had less than two days to cover 1000 kilometers and go from Milan to Brussels. This gave us enough time to visit the center of Milan and then leave for Strasbourg in the afternoon.

Milan, Italy

Since Milan is such a beautiful city accompanied by ancient architecture, a sense of fashion, and art … we made a small “bucket list” of locations that we had to see during our visit to the city center. 

Castello Sforzesco

Castello Sforzesco – also known as Sforza Castle – is a fortress that was built during the 14th century. 

Over the centuries, the fortification was destroyed in various wars, by the troops of Napoleon and during World War II. It was extensively rebuilt in 2005 and currently houses several of the city’s museums and art collections. That’s why it’s currently one of the most famous landmarks in Milan.

Arco della Pace

Arco della Pace is a huge triumphal arc located where the ancient Romans built their city gate. The gate is called “The Porta Sempione” and refers to the district it was located in.

While the origin of the arc can be found in 1807 when Napoleon was in command of the city, the construction of the “Arch of Peace” was paused when the city of Milan fell under the control of the Austrian Empire. The construction of the Arch was resumed in 1826 and was finally completed in 1838.

Bosco Verticale

The Bosco Verticale – or Vertical Forest – are two residential towers built in 2014 and are already known as the most iconic and most recognizable buildings of the last decade in Milan.

Pictures of the building often surface on Instagram and Pinterest, as it is iconic for its pioneering incorporation of a vertical forest.

Duomo di Milano

The Milan Cathedral, known as Duomo di Milano, is without any doubt the most known building in Milan.

It is logical too since they started the constructions in 1386 and only finished working on it more than six centuries later: in 1965! What’s even more impressive is the fact that the cathedral contains over 3400 different statues.

Strasbourg, France

As mentioned: Milan is still a 1000km drive from Brussels, so we had to keep going if we wanted to back on time! We decided to pass via Switzerland, which meant buying a new vignette when crossing the border and disabling our roaming data.

Once we arrived at Strasbourg, we parked at Parkplatz Friedhof since it was close to the city center, and parking on a Sunday would be free of any charge.

Day 7 – Back to Belgium

Every fairy tale comes to an end, and unfortunately, ours too. It was the last day where we were actually on the road; we wanted to enjoy it until the end. That is why we chose to discover Strasbourg in the morning and pass quickly via Veves Castle in the afternoon.

Being a university city on the border of France and Germany, Strassbourg is a very characteristic and cultural city, with enormous history. Proof of this is the street art that can be found all around the city or the ancient buildings scattered around the city (such as their cathedral).

We had some help from some locals; we were advised to discover the part of the city known as “Le Petit Paris.”

Vives Castle

What’s a better way to end our trip than to visit a 12th-century castle? We arrived rather last-minute: 10 minutes before the castle closed, so we didn’t have the chance get to explore it from the inside … but the sunset made up for it!

If you don’t know about Veves Castle yet, make sure to read the extensive guide we wrote, it contains the history of the castle, the legends around the castle and how to reach it. 

A fascinating part about the castle is that the same family has owned it for the last 800 years, and that is classified as an exceptional heritage by the region of Wallonia. As a result, the castle is referred to as Sleeping Beauty’s castle.

Day 8 – returning the campervan

Our last day was mainly focused on bringing back the campervan, where we had to pack our bags, clean the campervan in a self carwash, and ultimately fill in the paperwork again ( check for damages, note the number of kilometers we’ve driven,…).

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Hey there! I'm Elliot Clennam, a passionate photographer based in Brussels, Belgium. My love for capturing the essence of my surroundings has led me on countless adventures, from exciting road trips to bustling city escapes.

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RVing in Europe: Embark on an Unforgettable Adventure

Imagine embarking on an epic journey through the enchanting landscapes, historic cities, and cultural treasures of Europe—all from the comfort of your own RV. RVing in Europe offers a unique and immersive way to explore the continent, allowing you the freedom to create your own itinerary, discover hidden gems, and experience the rich tapestry of European cultures.

From the sun-soaked beaches of the Mediterranean to the snow-capped peaks of the Alps, Europe presents a diverse range of destinations that are best experienced on the open road. Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or new to the world of motorhome travel, this comprehensive guide will provide you with the essential information and tips to make your RV journey in Europe a resounding success.

In this article, we will delve into the advantages of RVing in Europe, highlighting the freedom, flexibility, and unique experiences that this mode of travel offers. We will explore essential tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable RV adventure, covering everything from navigating local customs and cultural etiquette to understanding road regulations and safety measures. You’ll also discover top RV destinations in Europe that showcase the continent’s natural wonders, architectural marvels, and cultural festivals.

Additionally, we will delve into practical considerations such as RV rental and purchase options, providing insights on reputable rental companies, choosing the right RV for your needs, and navigating the process of buying an RV in Europe. We will also offer guidance on traveling with pets, including tips on finding pet-friendly campsites, understanding pet regulations, and ensuring the comfort and safety of your furry companions during the journey.

From the bustling streets of Paris to the tranquil countryside of Tuscany, Europe beckons RV enthusiasts with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and diverse cultures. So, join us as we embark on a virtual tour through the captivating world of RVing in Europe—a world filled with adventure, exploration, and the freedom to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Table of Contents

• 1 The Advantages of RVing in Europe
• 2 Essential Tips for RVing in Europe
• 3 Top RV Destinations in Europe
• 4 Cultural Etiquette and Local Customs
• 5 Safety Tips for RVing in Europe
• 6 RV Rental and Purchase Options
• 7 Unique RV Experiences and Festivals in Europe
• 8 Tips for RVing with Pets in Europe
• 9 Frequently Asked Questions
• 10 Final Thoughts

The Advantages of RVing in Europe

Flexibility and Freedom : One of the greatest advantages of RVing in Europe is the unparalleled flexibility it offers. Unlike traditional modes of travel, RVing allows you to have complete control over your itinerary. You can stay longer in places that captivate you, discover hidden gems off the beaten path, and change your plans on a whim. This flexibility enables you to tailor your journey to suit your interests, allowing for a more personalized and fulfilling experience.

Cost-effectiveness : RVing in Europe provides a cost-effective way to explore the continent. Combining transportation and accommodation into one, RVing eliminates the need for expensive hotel stays and dining out for every meal. With the ability to cook your own meals in your RV’s kitchenette, you can save a significant amount of money on food expenses. Additionally, campsite fees are often more affordable than hotel rates, especially in off-peak seasons. RVing allows you to stretch your travel budget further, enabling you to visit more destinations and indulge in unique experiences.

Immersive Cultural Experience : RVing in Europe offers a genuine and immersive cultural experience. By traveling in an RV, you have the opportunity to connect with the local culture in a way that is not always possible with traditional travel methods. Campgrounds and RV parks often bring together travelers from various backgrounds, providing a chance to interact and exchange stories with fellow adventurers. Additionally, staying at campsites located in small towns or rural areas allows you to engage with locals, shop at local markets, and experience authentic cultural traditions firsthand. This deepens your understanding and appreciation of the destinations you visit.

Scenic Drives and Hidden Gems : Europe boasts a vast array of stunning landscapes and scenic routes, and RVing allows you to fully indulge in these natural wonders. From the rugged coastlines of Portugal to the majestic peaks of the Swiss Alps, Europe’s diverse geography unfolds before you as you traverse its roads. RVing provides the freedom to take detours and explore lesser-known destinations that are not typically included in conventional travel itineraries. By venturing off the beaten path, you may stumble upon hidden gems, charming villages, and breathtaking viewpoints that are often missed by those following a strict schedule.

Family-Friendly Travel : RVing is an excellent option for families traveling in Europe. It provides a comfortable and convenient mode of transportation, eliminating the need for multiple hotel bookings and tedious airport transfers. Children can have their own space to relax, play games, and enjoy the journey, making long drives more enjoyable for the whole family. RVs often come equipped with amenities such as bunk beds, entertainment systems, and outdoor recreational equipment, ensuring that every member of the family has a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Outdoor Adventures and Activities : Europe offers a plethora of outdoor activities and adventures for RV travelers. Whether it’s hiking in the Swiss Alps, kayaking along the Norwegian fjords, or cycling through the picturesque countryside of Tuscany, RVing provides easy access to outdoor recreational opportunities. Many campsites are located near natural reserves, national parks, and adventure hubs, allowing you to indulge in activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife spotting. The flexibility of RV travel enables you to engage in various pursuits and tailor your trip to suit your preferred outdoor activities.

In conclusion, RVing in Europe presents a multitude of advantages that cater to different travel preferences and interests. From the freedom and flexibility it offers to the cost-effectiveness and immersive cultural experiences, RVing allows you to create a personalized journey, discover hidden treasures, and connect with the continent’s rich heritage and natural beauty. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, RVing in Europe promises an adventure of a lifetime.

Essential Tips for RVing in Europe

Research Local Driving Regulations : Before embarking on your RV adventure in Europe, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the driving regulations of each country you plan to visit. Road rules, speed limits, road signs, and parking restrictions can vary from country to country. Ensure that you have a valid international driver’s license and are aware of any specific requirements or permits needed for driving an RV in certain regions. Being well-informed about local driving regulations will help you navigate European roads safely and avoid unnecessary fines or penalties.

Campsite Reservations : Europe, especially during peak travel seasons, can be quite busy with RV enthusiasts. To secure a spot at desirable campsites, it’s advisable to make reservations in advance. Research and identify campsites that cater to RVs and offer necessary amenities such as water and electricity hookups, waste disposal facilities, and Wi-Fi access. Consider the location of the campsite in relation to your intended destinations to minimize travel distances.

European RV Essentials : Ensure that your RV is equipped with essential safety equipment and supplies to comply with European regulations. These may include warning triangles, reflective vests, first aid kits, fire extinguishers, and a comprehensive tool kit. Additionally, check that your RV has the necessary adapters to connect to European electrical outlets and water hookups. Familiarize yourself with the functioning of your RV’s gas, water, and electricity systems, and carry spare parts or fuses that may be required.

Navigation and Communication : Invest in reliable navigation tools to make your RV journey in Europe seamless. Consider using a GPS system specifically designed for RVs, as it will account for factors such as vehicle height restrictions, bridge weight limits, and narrow roads. Offline maps or smartphone apps can also be handy, but ensure you have a reliable power source for your devices. Additionally, consider obtaining a local SIM card or a portable Wi-Fi device to stay connected and have access to online resources while on the road.

Understanding Road Tolls and Taxes : Some European countries have toll roads or require vignettes (road tax stickers) to drive on certain highways. Research the toll systems in the countries you plan to visit and familiarize yourself with payment methods, as some toll booths may only accept local currency or electronic payments. Make sure to comply with toll regulations to avoid fines. It’s also essential to understand the regulations regarding environmental zones, where specific vehicle emission standards may be required to enter certain city centers.

Camping Etiquette and Waste Disposal : Respect the environment and fellow campers by adhering to camping etiquette. Follow designated camping areas and avoid parking in restricted or protected areas. Use campsite facilities for waste disposal, including sewage, gray water, and trash. Dispose of waste responsibly and consider adopting eco-friendly practices, such as recycling and conserving water and energy during your stay. Leave your campsite clean and tidy for the next campers.

Insurance and Roadside Assistance : Before embarking on your RV journey, review your insurance coverage to ensure it includes comprehensive protection for your vehicle, personal belongings, and liability. Consider obtaining additional coverage specific to RV travel, such as coverage for accidents, breakdowns, or theft. It’s also advisable to inquire about roadside assistance services that can provide help in case of mechanical issues or emergencies.

Local Customs and Cultural Sensitivity : Research the cultural norms and customs of the countries you plan to visit. Be respectful of local traditions, customs, and social etiquette. Familiarize yourself with dress codes, particularly when visiting religious sites or conservative areas. Learn a few basic phrases in the local language, as it demonstrates respect and can facilitate interactions with locals.

By considering these essential tips, you can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable RVing experience in Europe. Being prepared, respectful, and knowledgeable about local regulations and customs will allow you to make the most of your adventure while creating lasting memories on the roads of Europe.

Top RV Destinations in Europe

The French Riviera, France : The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d’Azur, is a glamorous and picturesque stretch of coastline in southern France. RVing along this enchanting region allows you to explore iconic cities like Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez, with their beautiful beaches, vibrant promenades, and world-class restaurants. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit charming coastal towns like Menton and Antibes, known for their old-world charm and stunning views. The French Riviera offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and a glamorous lifestyle, making it a must-visit destination for RV enthusiasts.

The Ring of Kerry, Ireland : The Ring of Kerry is a scenic route that winds its way through the breathtaking landscapes of Ireland’s County Kerry. RVing along this iconic circuit offers awe-inspiring views of rugged coastline, pristine lakes, verdant mountains, and charming villages. Explore the picturesque town of Killarney, marvel at the dramatic cliffs of the Skellig Islands, and visit the historic Muckross House and Gardens. Immerse yourself in Ireland’s rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality as you traverse this captivating route, stopping at cozy villages to experience traditional music, hearty cuisine, and local crafts.

The Scottish Highlands, Scotland : The Scottish Highlands captivate with their untamed beauty, ancient castles, and rich history. RVing through this rugged region allows you to explore stunning landscapes, including the famous Loch Ness, Glen Coe, and the Isle of Skye. Discover the majestic mountains, shimmering lochs, and picturesque glens that have inspired countless stories and legends. Visit historic castles like Eilean Donan and Dunrobin, and delve into the vibrant culture of Scottish towns such as Inverness and Fort William. The Scottish Highlands offer a true escape into nature, where you can immerse yourself in the mystique of this extraordinary land.

The Amalfi Coast, Italy : RVing along the Amalfi Coast is a journey of unparalleled beauty and charm. Located in southern Italy, this coastline enchants with its dramatic cliffs, pastel-colored villages, and azure waters. Drive through the winding roads that hug the cliffs, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Explore iconic towns such as Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello, known for their narrow streets, vibrant architecture, and delicious local cuisine. Indulge in fresh seafood, hike along scenic trails, and soak up the Mediterranean sun on picturesque beaches. The Amalfi Coast is a sensory delight that promises an unforgettable RV adventure.

The Norwegian Fjords, Norway : Norway’s fjords are a natural wonder that must be experienced by RV. Cruising along these majestic waterways, flanked by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls, is a truly awe-inspiring experience. Explore the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, with its emerald-green waters and stunning vistas, or venture into the Sognefjord, the longest and deepest fjord in Norway. Discover charming villages along the way, such as Flam and Aurland, and engage in outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, or wildlife spotting. The Norwegian fjords offer a unique and breathtaking RV adventure in the lap of nature.

Each of these destinations showcases the diverse beauty and cultural heritage that Europe has to offer. RVing allows you to immerse yourself in these extraordinary landscapes, providing the freedom to explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems along the way. Embark on an RV adventure to these top destinations in Europe, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Cultural Etiquette and Local Customs

Respect Local Customs : When traveling in Europe, it’s essential to respect the local customs and traditions of the countries you visit. Familiarize yourself with the cultural norms, values, and etiquette specific to each destination. This includes aspects such as greetings, table manners, and appropriate clothing. For example, in some countries, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, while in others, a kiss on the cheek may be the norm. Be observant and adapt to the local customs to show respect for the culture and foster positive interactions.

Language and Communication : While English is widely spoken in many European countries, making an effort to learn a few basic phrases in the local language can go a long way in enhancing your interactions and showing respect. Simple greetings, “please,” “thank you,” and phrases like “excuse me” or “I’m sorry” are appreciated by locals and can help bridge the language barrier. Carry a pocket-sized phrasebook or use language learning apps to assist you in communicating with locals.

Dress Appropriately : In Europe, different regions and sites may have specific dress codes or cultural expectations. When visiting religious sites, such as churches, cathedrals, or mosques, it is customary to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. In more conservative areas, modest attire may be expected in public spaces as well. Research the dress codes and guidelines in advance to ensure that you dress appropriately and respectfully, avoiding any potential offense or discomfort.

Dining Etiquette : European countries have diverse dining customs and table manners. Familiarize yourself with basic dining etiquette specific to the countries you visit. For example, in France, it is customary to keep your hands on the table during the meal, while in Italy, it’s considered polite to keep your hands on your lap. Respect local practices regarding tipping, as it may vary from country to country. In some places, a service charge is already included, while in others, it’s customary to leave a small gratuity.

Cultural Sensitivity : Europe is a mosaic of different cultures, religions, and beliefs. It’s important to be sensitive to cultural and religious differences during your RV journey. Respect local customs, practices, and traditions, even if they may differ from your own. Be mindful of taking photographs, especially in religious or sacred sites, as some places may have restrictions or guidelines. Always ask for permission before photographing people, as a sign of courtesy.

Environmental Responsibility : Europe places a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability and conservation. Practice responsible camping and leave no trace behind. Dispose of waste properly in designated containers and recycling bins. Conserve water and energy by being mindful of your consumption. Respect protected areas, natural reserves, and wildlife habitats by adhering to designated trails and avoiding any activities that may harm the environment. By practicing responsible RVing, you contribute to preserving the natural beauty of Europe for future generations.

Public Behavior : In public spaces, be considerate of others and abide by local regulations. Observe and follow any signage or instructions regarding public behavior, including rules regarding noise, smoking, and public transportation. Respect queues and wait your turn when lining up. Keep in mind that behaviors or actions considered acceptable in one culture may be perceived differently in another, so be mindful of your actions and their potential impact on others.

By embracing cultural etiquette and respecting local customs, you demonstrate appreciation for the cultures you encounter during your RV journey in Europe. It enhances your travel experience, fosters positive interactions with locals, and allows for a deeper understanding and connection with the destinations you visit.

Safety Tips for RVing in Europe

Secure Your Belongings : When traveling in an RV, it’s essential to secure your belongings to prevent theft or loss. Use door and window locks on your RV whenever you leave or are inside. Consider installing additional security measures such as alarm systems or steering wheel locks to deter potential break-ins. When parking in public areas or overnight, choose well-lit and secure locations whenever possible.

Stay Alert and Vigilant : While RVing in Europe, it’s important to stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. Be cautious in crowded tourist areas, public transportation hubs, and popular attractions where pickpocketing can occur. Keep your valuables secure and out of sight, use a money belt or a concealed pouch to carry passports, cash, and credit cards, and avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics that may attract unwanted attention.

Research Safe Campsites : When selecting campsites for overnight stays, prioritize safety. Research campsites that are known for their security measures and positive reviews from fellow RVers. Look for campsites with gated entrances, 24-hour staff or security, and good lighting. It’s also beneficial to choose campsites that have surveillance cameras and on-site patrols.

Emergency Preparedness : Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and have a plan in place for various scenarios. Keep a list of emergency contacts handy, including local authorities, your insurance provider, and the nearest embassy or consulate. Ensure that your travel insurance covers medical emergencies, vehicle breakdowns, and roadside assistance specific to RV travel. Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and protocols for each country you visit.

Safe Driving Practices : Practice safe driving habits while RVing in Europe. Observe local traffic laws and regulations, including speed limits, road signs, and right-of-way rules. Be mindful of narrow roads, especially in historic city centers or rural areas. Take regular breaks to avoid driver fatigue, and never drink and drive. Consider investing in a dashcam for added security and to document any incidents on the road.

Weather and Road Conditions : Stay informed about weather forecasts and road conditions, particularly when traveling during winter months or in mountainous regions. Check weather updates before setting out for the day and adjust your travel plans accordingly. Be prepared for potential road closures or delays due to adverse weather conditions, and have alternative routes or destinations in mind.

Personal Safety : Take precautions to ensure your personal safety while RVing in Europe. Avoid traveling alone in unfamiliar or isolated areas, especially at night. When arriving at a new destination, familiarize yourself with the surroundings and be cautious of your surroundings. Trust your instincts and if a situation feels unsafe or uncomfortable, it’s best to move on to a more secure location.

Communication and Connectivity : Maintain communication and connectivity during your RV journey in Europe. Carry a charged mobile phone with a local SIM card or an international roaming plan for emergencies and to stay connected with family and friends. Consider investing in a portable Wi-Fi device for reliable internet access, especially if you rely on digital navigation tools or need to access information on the go.

By adhering to these safety tips, you can enhance your RVing experience in Europe while ensuring the well-being of yourself, your travel companions, and your belongings. Stay vigilant, be prepared, and prioritize safety at all times to have a memorable and secure journey across the continent.

RV Rental and Purchase Options

Renting an RV : Renting an RV is a popular option for those who do not own their own recreational vehicle or prefer the convenience of renting for specific trips. When considering RV rental options in Europe, keep the following in mind:

• Research Reputable Rental Companies : Look for well-established and reputable RV rental companies in Europe. Check customer reviews, ratings, and testimonials to ensure a reliable and positive rental experience. Consider companies that offer a range of RV types and sizes to suit your needs and preferences.
• Vehicle Selection : Determine the type and size of RV that best suits your travel requirements. Consider factors such as the number of passengers, desired amenities (such as a kitchenette or bathroom), and storage capacity. Smaller campervans or motorhomes may be more maneuverable in narrow European roads, while larger RVs offer more spacious living areas.
• Rental Terms and Conditions : Read the rental terms and conditions thoroughly, paying attention to important details such as mileage limits, insurance coverage, security deposits, and any additional fees or surcharges. Ensure you understand the policies regarding fuel consumption, return procedures, and liability for damages. Ask the rental company any questions you may have to clarify any uncertainties.
• Insurance Coverage : Verify that the rental company provides comprehensive insurance coverage for the RV, including liability, collision, and theft protection. Understand the deductible amounts and inquire about any additional coverage options that may be available. Check if your personal travel insurance covers any gaps in coverage or if supplemental insurance is necessary.
• Pick-up and Drop-off Locations : Determine the pick-up and drop-off locations that are most convenient for your travel itinerary. Many rental companies have multiple locations across Europe, allowing flexibility in planning your route. Consider whether one-way rentals are offered, as they can provide more flexibility in terms of itinerary planning.

Buying an RV : For those planning extended or frequent RV travel in Europe, purchasing an RV may be a worthwhile investment. Here are some factors to consider when buying an RV in Europe:

• Research Local Regulations : Familiarize yourself with the regulations, taxes, and requirements for owning an RV in the countries you plan to visit. Each country may have specific rules regarding vehicle registration, roadworthiness tests, and insurance requirements for RV ownership.
• Vehicle Size and Features : Determine the ideal size and features of the RV based on your travel preferences and needs. Consider factors such as living space, sleeping arrangements, storage capacity, and amenities like a kitchen, bathroom, or entertainment system.
• New or Used RV : Decide whether to purchase a new or used RV based on your budget and personal preferences. New RVs offer the latest features, warranties, and customization options, while used RVs can be more cost-effective. Research reputable dealers or private sellers, and inspect any used RV thoroughly before making a purchase.
• Maintenance and Servicing : Understand the maintenance requirements for the RV model you are considering. Research the availability of authorized service centers or qualified mechanics in the countries you plan to travel to. Consider factors such as warranty coverage, spare parts availability, and the ease of finding suitable campgrounds or RV parks with appropriate facilities.
• Financing and Budget : Determine your budget and explore financing options if necessary. Consider factors such as the purchase price, insurance costs, ongoing maintenance expenses, and any taxes or registration fees associated with RV ownership. Evaluate the financial feasibility and ensure it aligns with your travel plans.

Both renting and purchasing an RV in Europe offer unique advantages. Renting provides flexibility and convenience for specific trips, while owning an RV allows for long-term travel customization and personalization. Careful consideration of your travel needs, budget, and preferences will help you make an informed decision regarding the best option for your RV adventure in Europe.

Unique RV Experiences and Festivals in Europe

Attend RV Rallies and Gatherings : Europe hosts a variety of RV rallies and gatherings throughout the year, providing an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow RV enthusiasts, share experiences, and immerse yourself in the RV community. These events often feature activities such as group meals, workshops, live entertainment, and organized excursions. Participating in RV rallies can be a fun and engaging way to make new friends, exchange travel tips, and create lasting memories. Research and join rallies like the European Motorhome Show in the UK, the Caravan Salon in Germany, or country-specific gatherings that align with your travel plans.

Experience Local Festivals : Europe is renowned for its vibrant festivals, and attending one during your RV journey can be a truly memorable experience. Here are a few notable festivals to consider:

• Oktoberfest, Germany : This world-famous beer festival held annually in Munich attracts millions of visitors from around the globe. Park your RV at designated camping areas near the festival grounds and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, traditional music, delicious food, and of course, the vast array of Bavarian beers.
• La Tomatina, Spain : Join the ultimate tomato fight at this annual festival held in the town of Buñol near Valencia. Park your RV nearby and get ready to engage in a friendly and messy tomato battle with thousands of participants.
• Carnival of Venice, Italy : Experience the magic of the Carnival of Venice, where the city comes alive with elaborate masks, costumes, and street performances. Park your RV at campsites in the surrounding areas and partake in the enchanting festivities, including masquerade balls, parades, and artistic displays.
• St. Patrick’s Day, Ireland : Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in the land of its origin. Park your RV near Dublin or other major cities in Ireland and join the festive atmosphere of parades, traditional music, dancing, and the iconic green attire.
• Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Scotland : The world’s largest arts festival, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, takes place annually in August. Park your RV in Edinburgh or nearby campsites and immerse yourself in the diverse performances, comedy shows, theatrical productions, and street performances.
• Christmas Markets, Various Countries : Experience the enchantment of European Christmas markets during the holiday season. Park your RV near popular destinations such as Germany, Austria, or Belgium, and wander through the festively adorned stalls, sampling traditional treats, browsing handicrafts, and soaking in the joyful ambiance.

Attending these unique festivals and events during your RV journey in Europe allows you to engage with local traditions, celebrate cultural diversity, and create unforgettable memories. Check festival dates and make camping reservations well in advance to secure the best spots for these special occasions.

By incorporating these unique RV experiences and festivals into your itinerary, you’ll not only have the opportunity to explore Europe’s natural and historical wonders but also immerse yourself in the vibrant local cultures and traditions that make the continent so captivating.

Tips for RVing with Pets in Europe

Pet-Friendly Campsites : Research and select pet-friendly campsites that cater to the needs of RV travelers with pets. Look for campsites that offer amenities such as dog parks , pet washing areas, waste disposal facilities, and walking trails. Check if there are any specific rules or restrictions regarding pets at the campsites, such as leash requirements or designated pet areas. Prioritize campsites that prioritize the comfort and safety of your furry companions.

Vaccinations and Documentation : Before embarking on your RV journey, ensure that your pets are up-to-date with vaccinations required for travel in Europe. Different countries may have specific requirements for entry, so research the regulations for each destination you plan to visit. Carry necessary documentation, including vaccination records and health certificates, as they may be required at border crossings or when entering certain countries.

Travel Essentials for Pets : Pack essential items for your pets to ensure their comfort and well-being during the RV trip. Some important items include:

• Food and Water : Bring an ample supply of your pet’s regular food to last the duration of the trip, as it may not be readily available in certain areas. Carry collapsible food and water bowls for convenient feeding.
• Bedding and Comfort : Bring your pet’s familiar bedding, toys, and comfort items to create a sense of familiarity in the RV. This will help them feel more relaxed and at ease in their new environment.
• Leashes, Harnesses, and ID Tags : Keep your pets secure with leashes and harnesses when outside the RV. Ensure they wear ID tags with up-to-date contact information in case they become separated from you.
• Medications and First Aid Kit : If your pets require any medications, bring an ample supply for the duration of the trip. Additionally, carry a pet-specific first aid kit with essentials such as bandages, antiseptic solution, and tweezers.

Pet-Friendly Activities : Research and plan pet-friendly activities and attractions that you can enjoy with your furry companions. Many European cities have parks, gardens, and walking trails where pets are welcome. Some tourist attractions may also allow pets on leashes, while others may have designated pet-friendly areas. Be respectful of any rules or guidelines regarding pets at these locations and ensure your pets are well-behaved and under control at all times.

Pet Regulations and Leash Laws : Familiarize yourself with local pet regulations and leash laws in the countries you plan to visit. Some countries may have specific requirements for pet restraint, including mandatory leashing or the use of muzzles in certain public areas. Understand and respect these regulations to ensure a harmonious experience for both your pets and the local community.

Veterinary Care and Emergency Services : Research veterinary clinics and emergency services in the areas you plan to visit. Save their contact information and addresses in case of any unforeseen situations or if your pet requires medical attention. It’s also a good idea to have a list of pet-friendly hospitals or clinics in case of emergencies.

Cleanliness and Waste Disposal : Be responsible and clean up after your pets at all times. Carry waste disposal bags to clean up their waste and dispose of it properly in designated trash bins. Respect the cleanliness of campsites and public areas by maintaining cleanliness and hygiene.

Safety and Comfort during Travel : Ensure your pets are safe and comfortable during travel by providing appropriate restraints or carriers. Consider using pet seat belts or harnesses to secure them while the RV is in motion. Provide them with adequate ventilation, fresh water, and frequent bathroom breaks during long drives. Avoid leaving your pets unattended in the RV for extended periods, especially during hot weather, as temperatures can rise quickly inside the vehicle.

By following these tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable RVing experience with your pets in Europe. Keep in mind that every pet is unique, so be attentive to their individual needs and make adjustments accordingly. RVing with your furry companions allows you to create lasting memories together while exploring the beauty of Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions

As you plan your RV adventure in Europe, you may have various questions regarding safety, regulations, logistics, and other important aspects of RVing on the continent. In this section, we address some of the most commonly asked questions to help you navigate through the intricacies of RV travel in Europe. From safety concerns to license requirements, pet-friendly options, and cost considerations, we provide informative answers to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable journey. While these FAQs cover key topics, it’s always recommended to research specific country regulations and consult official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Is it safe to RV in Europe?

RVing in Europe can be safe if you take necessary precautions. Practice common safety measures such as securing your belongings, staying vigilant in crowded areas, and researching the safety of campsites before booking. Be aware of local driving regulations, road conditions, and potential hazards specific to each country you visit. By staying informed and exercising caution, you can have a safe and enjoyable RV experience in Europe.

Do I need a special license to drive an RV in Europe?

The driving license requirements for RVs in Europe vary depending on the weight and size of the vehicle. In most European countries, a regular driver’s license is sufficient for RVs weighing up to 3,500 kilograms (7,716 pounds). However, for larger RVs or motorhomes, you may need to obtain a specific category license, such as a C1 or C license. It’s important to check the specific license requirements of the countries you plan to visit and ensure you have the necessary documentation.

How do I find campsites for RVs in Europe?

Finding campsites for RVs in Europe is relatively easy, as there are numerous options available. You can use various resources such as online directories, RV camping apps, or guidebooks that list campgrounds and RV parks. Research campsites based on your preferred locations, amenities, and reviews from other RVers. Consider factors such as proximity to attractions, access to facilities (water, electricity, waste disposal), and suitability for your RV size. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.

Can I bring my pet on an RV trip in Europe?

Yes, you can bring your pet on an RV trip in Europe. However, it’s important to research the specific pet regulations and requirements of each country you plan to visit. Ensure that your pet’s vaccinations are up to date, carry necessary documentation such as health certificates, and familiarize yourself with pet-friendly accommodations and activities. Be responsible by cleaning up after your pet, respecting leash laws, and ensuring their safety and comfort during travel.

What should I pack for an RV trip in Europe?

When packing for an RV trip in Europe, consider the essentials such as clothing, toiletries, medications, and travel documents. Additionally, pack kitchen supplies, bedding, and other personal items to make your RV feel like a home away from home. Don’t forget to bring adapters for electrical outlets, navigation tools, camping gear, and any specific items you may need for activities or excursions. It’s important to pack light but also ensure you have everything you need to be comfortable during your journey.

Is wild camping allowed in Europe?

Wild camping regulations vary across Europe. In some countries, wild camping or overnight parking in non-designated areas is strictly prohibited, while others have more lenient policies. It’s essential to research the regulations of each country you plan to visit. If wild camping is allowed, respect the environment, follow any restrictions, and leave no trace behind. Otherwise, opt for designated campsites or RV parks, as they provide necessary facilities and amenities while ensuring compliance with local regulations.

How much does it cost to RV in Europe?

The cost of RVing in Europe can vary depending on several factors, including the duration of your trip, type of RV, camping fees, fuel prices, and your travel style. RV travel can be cost-effective compared to traditional accommodation and dining expenses. Budget for expenses such as RV rental or purchase, campsite fees, fuel, tolls, food, activities, and any additional services or experiences you plan to enjoy. Research and plan your budget accordingly to have a realistic estimate of your expenses.

How do I navigate and find RV-friendly routes in Europe?

Navigating and finding RV-friendly routes in Europe can be facilitated through various tools. Use GPS devices or smartphone apps specifically designed for RV travel, as they consider factors like vehicle size, weight limits, and road restrictions. Offline maps and guidebooks can also be helpful. Additionally, join RV forums or online communities where fellow RVers share their experiences, route suggestions, and recommendations for RV-friendly roads and scenic drives in Europe.

These frequently asked questions cover some of the key aspects of RVing in Europe. However, it’s important to conduct further research and consult official sources or local authorities for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding specific countries and regions you plan to visit.

Final Thoughts

Embarking on an RV adventure in Europe offers a unique and captivating way to explore the diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultures that the continent has to offer. From the sun-kissed beaches of the French Riviera to the majestic fjords of Norway, Europe presents an array of breathtaking destinations waiting to be discovered. By following essential tips, understanding local customs, and prioritizing safety, you can navigate the roads of Europe with confidence and create unforgettable memories along the way.

Whether you choose to rent an RV or purchase your own, there are options to suit every traveler’s needs. Renting provides flexibility for specific trips, while owning an RV offers the freedom to customize your travels and create a home on wheels. Research reputable rental companies or dealers, familiarize yourself with rental terms or purchase requirements, and make informed decisions based on your preferences and budget.

While RVing in Europe, it’s important to be respectful of local customs, adhere to cultural etiquette, and practice responsible tourism. From greeting locals with a friendly “bonjour” or “ciao” to dressing appropriately for religious sites and conserving the environment, embracing local customs enriches your experience and fosters positive interactions with the communities you encounter.

Exploring top RV destinations in Europe allows you to witness the stunning natural landscapes, immerse yourself in historical wonders, and indulge in diverse cuisines. Whether you traverse the winding roads of the Scottish Highlands, soak up the sun on the beaches of the Amalfi Coast, or join the festivities of Oktoberfest in Germany, Europe offers endless possibilities for unforgettable RV experiences.

Furthermore, traveling with pets adds an extra dimension of joy and companionship to your RV journey. With proper planning, pet-friendly campsites, and awareness of local regulations, you can ensure the comfort and safety of your furry companions while enjoying the wonders of Europe together.

As you venture across Europe in your RV, remember to prioritize safety at all times. Secure your belongings, stay alert in crowded areas, and familiarize yourself with local driving regulations and road conditions. Research campsite options, book in advance, and be prepared for different weather scenarios.

In conclusion, RVing in Europe opens a world of exploration, cultural immersion, and unforgettable experiences. By incorporating the tips, recommendations, and insights shared in this article, you can embark on a remarkable journey through the enchanting landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich heritage of Europe. So, pack your bags, fuel up your RV, and set out on an adventure that will create lasting memories and leave you longing to return to the open roads of Europe time and time again.

About The Author

Karan Riley

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The Definitive Guide to Europe by Campervan

Imagine the feeling waking up each day, grabbing your morning coffee and looking out across the lake/mountain/beach you parked next to the night before.

You take a look at the map, plot a course and make your way to the next destination. In your own time, on your own schedule, in your own home on wheels. This is life when traveling Europe by campervan.

It is a steep learning curve once you decide to campervan in Europe for the first time, particularly if you are not from Europe. 

We are here to fast track you past the initial planning stages and help you plan your trip by campervan around Europe. In this Guide to Europe by Campervan we have listed all of our best campervan travel tips.  

There is A LOT of information here so don’t forget to save or share the article to refer to later.

• 1 How To Plan Your Europe By Campervan Itinerary
• 2 To Buy Or Rent a Campervan In Europe?
• 3 The Best Campervan Layouts
• 4 Get To Know Your Campervan
• 5 LPG Gas Bottles
• 6 Best Campervan Gadgets
• 7 Essentials Apps for Campervan Life
• 8 Connectivity Tips
• 9 Navigation Tips for Campervanning in Europe
• 10 Toll Roads
• 11 Using Ferries in Europe
• 12 Campervan Camping In Europe Guide
• 13 Campervan Security
• 14 Campervan Meals
• 15 Tracking your Europe Road Trip Costs
• 16 Important Documents to Carry
• 17 Ready To Plan Your Trip?
• 18 Final Travel Europe By Campervan Advice

How To Plan Your Europe By Campervan Itinerary

We explored Europe by campervan for 5 months on a family gap year and it was an incredible experience. The region is well set up for touring by campervan.

The ease of travel between countries and the cultural and natural diversity of Europe make it the perfect road trip destination.

The natural thing to do first when planning to campervan around Europe is plan the itinerary.

There are millions of different campervan routes in Europe and it can be hard to whittle it down to a manageable list. 

We suggest you start with this list of questions to help you narrow your planning efforts:

• How much time do I have
• Where will we start and end the road trip
• How much driving am I prepared to do each week
• What time of year will I be in Europe (the weather is an important consideration)
• Do I want to travel slow or do I want to tick off as many places as I can.

Next we suggest you pull out your Europe bucket list, a spreadsheet, a map of Europe, Google Maps and your Weather App and start planning.

Expert Tip:   When looking at distances on Google maps, add half the time again to get a realistic idea of the time it will take to drive in a campervan. Travel by campervan is slower than by car and you will most likely stop a number of times on the way. In our experience a 3 hour trip on Google Maps typically becomes a 4-5 hour driving day.

We love using Lonely Planet Guide Books when we first start planning a new trip.

They give a good overview of a country or region, the key sights, and best time to go. They are a helpful way to come up with your Europe bucket list in order to start planning.

Click here for the latest prices for Lonely Planet Europe .

As you start to form your high level itinerary, my best piece of advice is don’t lock it all in!

The beauty of travelling Europe in a campervan is that you can also make it up as you go along. Prioritise the countries and sights you want to see and adjust your Europe itinerary as you go.

Europe Itinerary Planner

If you would like more guidance to plan your Europe itinerary, we recommend this Europe Motorhoming Travel Toolkit by motorhome experts, Wandering Bird.

The toolkit includes a Europe travel ebook, printables, video tutorials and guides to route planning, camping, motorhome security and much, much more.

It is an invaluable resource full of tips and ideas and so helpful for first time motorhome Europe travellers.

>> Click here to check the price and find out more

To Buy Or Rent a Campervan In Europe?

Buy or rent? This is one of the most difficult decisions and unfortunately there is no right answer to this question. It really depends on your situation.

So to help you choose here we guide you through a couple of key questions to help you make this important decision.

In short, renting is the simplest and easiest option and the best choice for short trips (less than 8 weeks).

There are many European motorhome rental agencies, but we recommend   Motorhome Republic . They have a huge network of vans across Europe and offer discounts for longer bookings.

Click here for a no obligation quote from Motorhome Republic.

Renting an RV in Europe makes sense for short trips, but will cost more if you are travelling around Europe for a longer period.

Considerations for renting or buying a motorhome in Europe

Here are some things to consider when weighing up whether to buy or rent an RV in Europe.

Length of trip in the campervan

The longer your trip the more sensible it is buy. On our calculations it was worth buying a camper van if the trip was longer than 2.5 months.

Less time than that and it was probably easier to hire a campervan in Europe.

The time of year

Off season rentals are typically much cheaper as loads of campervans are returned at the end of summer.

If you are brave enough to start your trip in winter and are prepared to negotiate, you should be able to get a much better price on a Europe RV rental for the off season.

Van repairs

Are you prepared to take responsibility for fixing the van, should things go wrong? When renting a campervan in Europe, if anything goes wrong, the rental company will resolve the issue.

If you buy the van you are going to have to work it out yourself.

We met a couple in Montenegro who had been holed up in the campsite for a month waiting for a part for their van to be shipped from the UK.

Thankfully we had no major issues with our van over the 5 months.

But it is a big consideration. For this reason, before purchasing a van we strongly recommend you have it checked out by a mechanically minded person.

Your country of origin makes a difference

As a non-European it is a little more complicated to purchase and insure a van in Europe.

It makes a private sale with an individual buyer very complicated unless you have friends or relatives in Europe who are prepared to purchase insurance on your behalf.

But the good news is that it is possible to purchase a campervan as a non-resident through a number of smaller European campervan companies.

If you are interested in buying a European camper van, contact us and we can put you in contact with our preferred company, a small family run business.

Expert Tip: If you need to transfer funds when purchasing a van in Europe we use and recommend Wise. Much better rates than most banks and quick and easy to set up. We saved hundreds of dollars transferring funds for our van purchase using Wise. Click here to find out more.

Look at campervan buy back schemes

If you don’t want the hassle of selling the campervan privately at the end of your trip, there are companies who will offer a guaranteed buy back. This will cost you more than purchasing and selling privately, but it is cheaper than renting.

You are assured of selling the van and it simplifies the process at the end of your trip. It is a good compromise between renting and buying privately. We opted for this option and we very happy with our decision.

If you would like to get a quote for buying a camper van in Europe through a buy back scheme, contact us and we can put you in contact with our preferred supplier.

So in summary, buying a van requires a large financial outlay but will most likely save you more over the long term.

But if you don’t want the hassle, motorhome hire for European travel is easy and worry free.

Get a campervan rental quote today and start planning your road trip!

The Best Campervan Layouts

Before you choose to purchase or rent a van, you should spend some time thinking about the best campervan layout to suit your needs.

There are literally thousands of different van configurations. It is hard to know what will work if you haven’t been RVing in Europe before.

Questions to help you find the best van layout

To simplify your van search, use these questions to prioritise what is important before you start looking.

How new do you want the van to be? What modern features does it need to have?

Are you prepared to accept an older van with older furnishings, no air conditioning, fewer mod cons. Older vans are generally much cheaper to buy or rent.

Or are these things important to you? For example, if you are considering Europe campervan routes in the south through Summer, air conditioning will make your trip much more comfortable.

Van size is a big consideration and will depend on how many people are traveling, but also the style of trip you want to take.

Do you want to go offroad on your camper van Europe trip? Do you want to free camp in out of the way places? Do you want to be able to drive the van into major cities? A smaller van is better for these types of European road trips.

Do you have kids? Do you want them to have a separate sleeping area and/or their own beds?

What size van are you comfortable driving? There are pros and cons to both. A small van is easier to drive and park and is easier to take to out of the way places.

But a larger van usually has a toilet and kitchen onboard, provides more comfort inside when traveling to colder countries and allows you to take more stuff.

It is worth noting that European camper vans on average tend to be smaller than what you find in Northern America, but are perfectly suited to RV through Europe.

Right or Left Hand Drive

Do you want a right or left hand drive? If you are going to spend most of your time on the continent, it makes more sense to buy a left hand drive vehicle.

Many vans for sale in the UK are right hand drive, so always check when enquiring if it is a left hand or right hand drive.

Bed Configuration

Are you prepared to convert a table into a bed each night or do you want permanently set up beds when you RV Europe?

If you are on a long term road trip, converting a bed each day can become pretty tiresome, but it means you can take a smaller van.

We took this compromise on our US month long road trip , but didn’t want to for a longer Europe tour.

If you have kids and they are still in car seats or booster seats this needs to be factored in to your decision.

Expert Tips: If you are traveling with kids, we talk more about bed configuration when traveling Europe by campervan with kids here .

Do you want to carry bikes or other large sporting equipment like kayaks or paddle boards that will need to be stored in or on the van?

Kitchen Appliances

Can you cook everything in your campervan kitchen on a gas cook top? Can you live without an oven and grill in the van?

Camper Van Amenities

Do you want to be able to free camp for days at a time off the grid with sufficient power and amenities to do so?

A van with a fridge that runs on gas, lights that run on a dual battery and a toilet onboard will help you achieve this.

Heating and Cooling

Will you be traveling through hot climates on your campervan Europe trip?

If you don’t have air conditioning you will need a van with plenty of opening windows (preferably with insect screens).

Will you be travelling Europe in the winter? If so you will need a campervan heater.

Related: The best campervan accessories for van life

Get To Know Your Campervan

Once you have chosen your van, it is really important to familiarise yourself with the vehicle before you set off campervanning around Europe.

We cannot stress the importance of this enough: get to know your new home before you go too far from where you rent or buy it.

Travelling Van Pre-Travel Checklist

• Check the campervan is mechanically okay. Ask when was it last serviced. Check the tyres.
• Do all the windows and blinds open and close correctly?
• Do all doors open, close and lock properly?
• If there is an alarm, does it work and how does it function?
• Confirm the appliances (fridge, heater, 12V outlets, AC outlets, air con if you are so lucky) are working and you know how to use them.
• Have the company/seller show you how to fill the LPG tank. Have they provided the necessary attachments for the countries you are visiting?
• Check you know how to open and close the campervan awnings.
• Check if the awning comes with tie down ropes. If it doesn’t we recommend you buy them to secure the awning. Click here to see the tie downs we recommend .

Know the van dimensions

It is also really important to know the height, length and width of your van!

Unlike rving in the US , there were MANY occasions heading down a country road or under a small bridge we would notice a road sign indicating the maximum width or height.

We would have to stop and find another way around because we wouldn’t fit in our large motorhome. It is VERY important to know this!

Campervan Parking

Navigating into campsites and getting out of carparks is often tricky and we saw a few other drivers hitting light posts and fence posts in their attempts to reverse their RVs!

Our van didn’t have parking sensors or a reversing camera and it was impossible to see what was behind you.

We suggest that if you are traveling with other people, one of you always get out and direct the driver into or out of the spot as you campervan through Europe.  

Agree on a method for helping the driver with reverse parking. We found that hand signals worked better than voice commands.

Supermarket carparks are a good place to find large spots to park when in visiting towns in Europe.

They had more space and we could take up a few spots. Much less stressful than trying to park on a busy street!

Managing Waste Water

Larger campervans come equipped with grey water tanks. This collects all the used water – from the kitchen and bathroom sinks.

The older the van, the more likely it is this tank is going to have a unique and not so great odour.

If you rent or buy an older van our recommendation is to empty the grey water tank before setting off on long driving days.

When we didn’t empty the grey water tank we would be driving along with our sleeves held over our noses! The smell of grey water wafting through the van is terrible and was much worse in hotter weather.

We tried everything to improve the situation. From special tank cleaner to dishwashing liquid to putting ice cubes into the tank. Nothing got rid of the smell. The best solution was to have an empty grey water tank whilst driving.

If your van has a toilet we suggest you use toilet chemicals. Carry spare bottles of toilet chemicals as they were not always easy to find in smaller towns.

Thetford Aqua-Kem is a popular holding tank chemical and the one we used on our trip around Europe. Click here to check the latest prices .

LPG Gas Bottles

If your campervan has a refillable LPG bottle, monitor the gas level and don’t let it get too low. In some countries such as Portugal and Austria it was difficult to find LPG so we tried to keep it above half full.

Having said that, we used the gas for cooking, heating and cooling the fridge when off the grid and it really didn’t use much gas at all. We probably could have only filled it once or twice in 5 months.

Note also that there are four of different types of LPG gas bottle fittings used across Europe. Our campervan came with all of them and we could screw on the one we needed when we refilled.

The website mylpg.eu/adapters explains which fitting type is used in each country and also has a listing of LPG filling stations.

Also, if you were like us and had no idea how to use an LPG pump, have a look on YouTube for some guidance!

Best Campervan Gadgets

There is additional equipment and motorhome accessories you will use all the time and we recommend you purchase for travelling in Europe by campervan.

1. 12V USB Port Adaptor

You will need to buy a 12V USB port adaptor to charge your phones and tablets. Make sure you get a good quality one with a high current output to enable fast charging of your phone.

It will need to be dual USB like this one so you can power the GPS at the same time as charging a phone.

2. Voltage Inverter

If you have electronic devices such as a laptop or camera battery charger that are powered by AC voltage then see if you can find a 12V charger for them.

Alternatively, we recommend buying a voltage inverter which allows you to run an AC device from a 12V port.

When choosing an inverter you need to check that the inverter output is the correct AC voltage and is rated at a significantly higher power than the device you are powering.

For example, I needed to run my laptop power supply which was 220V at 180W so I bought a 500W Car Power Inverter. Click to check the latest prices on the Inverter.

If you are coming from the US you need a 12v to 110v inverter for US voltage electronics like this one .

We also recommend you purchase bicycles when touring Europe in a campervan.

Campsites are often located a little out of town and the bikes give you more flexibility to get out and explore the local area without having to drive the van everywhere.

You can easily purchase them secondhand on ebay like we did, or look for a good deal on a new bike that you can sell at the end of your trip.

The large supermarket chains like Carrefour and Aldi often had new bikes for sale and Decathlon is a cheap sportstore found in Europe with affordable bikes.

Many campervans have a bike rack on the rear to carry bikes. If not, ask your rental agency or seller if one can be added.

An adaptor, inverter and bikes are our top three campervan products for motorhome travel to Europe.

For more of our favorite travel accessories see our list of 14 Travel Essentials here .

Read next: Best gifts for Motorhome owners

Essentials Apps for Campervan Life

It is easy to stay connected on a campervan trip around Europe. We travel with a laptop, a tablet, 2 kindles and 4 mobile phones.

The kids have a mobile device and headphones each because it was the cheapest way for them to have access to music and audio books.

We talk more about this in our article on road trip activities for kids. Click here to read it .

To satisfy everyone’s need for music, we purchased a Spotify family membership for access to music online.

Spotify is a great app. Everyone had their own playlists and could access unlimited new music throughout the trip.

It is also possible to save playlists to listen to when offline.

Download Spotify for free. Click for: Apple Store free download (iOS) Google Store free download (Android)

Another option for access to tunes is Amazon Music . They also offer a family membership plan and have the option to play music when offline, similar to Spotify.

Click here for a 30 day free unlimited trial of Amazon Music.

2. Borrowbox

We also signed up with our local public library to borrow ebooks and audio books for free. This was one of the best decisions we made for RV travel in Europe.

It has saved us hundreds of dollars and also helped entertain the kids on long drives.

Check with your local public library whether they are set up. Our library used the Borrowbox app.

The kids would listen to audiobooks on their phones as we were driving and we could download ebooks to the tablet.

Download BorrowBox for free. Click for Apple Store free download (iOS) Google Store free download (Android)

The only limitation with the Borrowbox app is that often new releases were not available, and popular books were constantly on loan.

So the other option is to sign up for an Audible account . Audible gives you access to a huge range of new release audiobooks, podcasts and originals as part of a monthly membership.  Click here to sign up for a free trial on Audible.

A podcast app is another way to download content for both kids an adults. We use Castbox.

Book exchanges seem to be a thing of the past and we very rarely found somewhere to exchange English books, especially kids books, so the kindles were essential.

We traveled with two kindles which were shared between all 4 of us.

Our family bought us an Amazon voucher as a farewell gift. We made very good use of this during the year when we couldn’t find books to borrow from the library.

Click here to see the latest Kindle and price

If you plan to work or homeschool while travelling Europe by motorhome, a laptop is essential.

We love our Microsoft Surface Pro as it is lightweight, a fully functioning laptop that can also be converted to a tablet for use by the kids.

It was well used not only for work but also for watching movies, planning our Europe trip along the way and for the kids to do login to online learning sites for homeschooling.

Click here to see the latest prices for the Surface Pro

Connectivity Tips

Wifi vs mobile data.

One of our top campervan tips is not to rely on camp ground WiFi when you travel Europe in a campervan.

I was very surprised in Europe to find WiFi connectivity generally pretty poor. We found camp grounds almost always promised WiFi but in reality it was slow and unreliable and sometimes expensive.

Like most people these days, internet connections are an important part of travel.

Plus as we didn’t book any of our trip in advance we were planning most nights once the kids were in bed. 

To reduce frustration levels with WiFi we recommend you purchase local prepaid data plans.

In 2017 the EU introduced a new law forcing mobile data roaming costs to be the same across Europe as in the country where you purchased the SIM.

This means you can get a SIM in your first country and know it will work practically everywhere at the same rate.

While there are still huge variations in the plans on offer, it is much easier than before when it often made sense to get a new prepaid SIM in each country.

The Prepaid Data SIM Card Wiki is an amazing source of information that we used to determine the best deal.

Read Next: Best Road Trip Gifts for Travel Lovers

If you are using free WiFi it is important to protect your data by using a VPN when travelling Europe in a van.

A VPN (virtual private network) allows you to use public and open WiFi connections without the risk of your data being compromised.

We use NordVPN all around the world when we travel. Just switch it on when you connect to WiFi and know your information is safe.

Click here to see the latest deals with NordVPN.

Navigation Tips for Campervanning in Europe

We highly recommend that you have a number of different navigation tools on hand to help plan your journeys.

There was never one tool that met all of our needs and we used all of these methods most days.

1. Road Atlas

For high-level planning, our first point of call was our Philip's Big Road Atlas Europe .

This may seem a little old school, but we regularly referred to this map to give us a good overview of distances for itinerary planning.

Our son also loved highlighting our Europe road trip in the atlas to track our journey and it is a great memento of the trip.

>> Click here to check the price for the Philip's Europe Road Atlas .

Traveling with kids?   Read our tips for road trip activities for kids here

A dedicated GPS/Sat Nav with up-to-date maps is essential for a few reasons:

• It doesn’t rely on mobile connectivity
• It keeps your mobile free for other purposes when driving
• The GPS shows you the speed limit when you are driving and just how sharp that upcoming bend is.

There are many different types of GPS, but you are best to look at sat navs for motorhomes with European road maps included.

We had an entry level TomTom GPS and found it simple and reliable to use plus we liked the Australian voice option who would tell us “mate, if those back seat drivers don’t keep it down, ditch them at the next servo”.

However it didn’t have settings specifically for large vehicles which would have been helpful considering the number of small roads and villages we navigated.

>> Click here to check the price for TomTom GPS for motorhomes

3. Google Maps

The only problem with a GPS is that sometimes it might suggest tiny roads or routes through village centres that our 7m/3.5 tonne van could not pass through.

Unfortunately there was no option to filter out roads not suitable for oversized campervans.

So we would also use the Google Maps app on our phone to see what route it suggested because it tended to be better at avoiding small roads.

We strongly recommend when you have WiFi you download Google Maps for use in offline mode to avoid being reliant on mobile data.

The other great thing we used Google Maps for (if you have an internet connection) is to use satellite view or street view to check just how wide a road is.

If you can see lines in the middle of the road you are good to go. If not, you may need to think twice in a large van.

4. Other Tools

We also occasionally used an app (or website) called Via Michelin which was able to give estimates for toll costs and more realistic travel times compared to Google maps.

Also ensure you research different country rules in relation to things such as driving laws, low emission zones, how tolls are charged and child restraint requirements.

The rules differ a lot between countries. We had to change our plans in and around London due to restrictions on older vehicles entering greater London.

Our Philip’s Big Road Atlas Europe had an excellent country section in the front that summarised the basic rules and regulations for each country.

Toll roads are common in Europe (except Germany and the Netherlands) and they can be very expensive to travel on in a motorhome.

We recommend you do your research on the cost of toll roads in each country, how much time they will save you on the journey and how they have to be paid. It differs country by country.

The Via Michelin site was useful for estimating tolls on different routes.

France was super expensive because our campervan was over 3m tall and classified as a bus.

We spent 30 Euros ($35 USD) on one 5 hour drive down the west coast of France. Italy and Spain were much more reasonably priced and had fewer tolls.

How to pay Tolls in Europe

In most cases you can pay the toll using cash or a credit card at a toll booth.

One exception is Portugal which has no toll booths, just toll points with cameras that scan your number plate.

In Portugal you must register a credit card against your number plate at the Welcome Points just over the border on their main motorways.

Then your card is automatically charged when you pass a toll point. More information on the process can be found here.

Another variation is the vignette. This is a prepaid motorway toll in the form of a sticker which you typically purchase from petrol stations near the border and display on your windscreen.

Vignettes are required in Switzerland, Austria & Slovenia and some other Eastern European countries.  They come with varying length validity. Being caught out will result in a hefty fine.

If you want to avoid tolls, you can set your GPS/Sat Nav and Google Maps to do this.

As a rule of thumb, if we weren’t in a hurry we would avoid toll roads. If we were traveling a long distance we generally took the toll roads to maintain the sanity of both parents and kids.

Using Ferries in Europe

It is possible to move between countries by ferry in your campervan instead of by road.

There are a number of transport ferries that operate between Spain, Italy, France, Montenegro, Greece and even Africa.

This is worth considering if you want to get to South Eastern Europe quickly to save time or if you want to extend your trip touring Europe in a motorhome into Africa.

We share our experience taking two transport ferries to get from Spain to Montenegro here .

Campervan Camping In Europe Guide

When camping through Europe you have three main options for camp sites:

• Paid campgrounds 
• Cheap Aires
• Free or wild camping

Paid Camping across Europe

If you plan to use camp grounds in Europe my best recommendation is to purchase an ACSI camping card .

ACSI is a non-peak season discount program containing over 3000 campsites around Europe.

We saved hundreds of dollars camping through Europe in the low and shoulder seasons over the 5 months with our ACSI card.

You need to order this before you arrive in Europe (unless you have a friend who is local) and make sure you allow plenty of time to receive the membership card and guides.

We bought them directly from ACSI and had them sent to a UK address. They took about 6 weeks to arrive.

It was worth paying a little extra for access to their mobile app as it was a good way to search for campsites in the general direction we were heading in.

We also suggest you don’t rely too much on camp site reviews. Also, don’t believe bigger is always better.

Often in the larger campgrounds the actual sites were small and expensive. Look for smaller, locally run campsites, or look for free campsites.

Cheap Camping in Europe

One of the best ways to save money when touring in Europe by campervan is to stay at Aires. Aires are simple sites set up specifically for people travelling Europe in a motorhome. 

Three great resources to find these sites are:

• searchforsites.co.uk
• campercontact.com
• park4night.com

Europe has an extensive network of Aires and they are perfect for RV camping in Europe.

They cannot be booked in advance and typically have a waste dump point, fresh water and toilets. Sometimes they have electricity hookups and showers.

The sites fill up quickly in summer so make sure you arrive by early afternoon to have a chance at a spot.

We occasionally used these but found them not to be ideal for stops of more than one night with the kids. 

We also strongly recommend checking out memberships such as France Passion .

They offer free overnight camping in wineries and farms for members. A similar system was operating in Portugal too. 

Free Camping in Europe

We found the park4night app to be an excellent resource for finding free or wild camping sites in Europe.

Download park4night. Click for Apple Store download (iOS) Google Store download (Android)

This app lists free (and fee based) camping sites all over Europe.

The sites and ratings are all user-generated. The sites range from supermarket car parks to gorgeous spots along the coastline.

It is available offline if you pay the small monthly fee and we recommend paying for this option.

TBH we thought we would free camp way more than we did. It is a great money saver and was much easier in some countries and places than others.

I wish we had found this guide to wild camping before our trip, as it gives a great overview of what you can and can’t do, plus recommends hundreds of good stops based on personal experience.

But in reality we had a 7 metre, 3.5 tonne, 2 wheel drive van that couldn’t sneak down little dirt tracks.

We found we stressed more when stopping in a carpark with the kids as they couldn’t go off and explore.

If I am honest, sometimes the effort to search for a free camp was beyond me at the end of a long day driving with the kids.

But, there are many people who travel all over Europe and rarely pay for a campsite. It is definitely worth doing.

Note that free camping is illegal in some countries (such as Croatia) and in others they make it hard to find a place to stop (such as Italy).

Some countries allow it in the off season but not through summer. Take a look, give it a go and see what works for you.

If you want to know more about wild camping in Europe, this wild camping guide is a fantastic resource.

It outlines how to stay legal, how to choose the best places to camp and much, much more. Click here to find out more.

Booking Camp sites

Our best tip when you are planning your road trip by campervan in Europe is not to book too much. Resist the temptation to book anything in advance!

We had a very high level view of the countries we wanted to visit and in what order, but did not book anything before we started. We decided every couple of days where we would go next.

This approach gives you so much freedom to be flexible, to stay longer at places you like, to take up recommendations you receive along the way, or choose a place based on how everyone is feeling at the time.

We found that if we arrived at a campground by mid-afternoon we always found a site.

However, the summer school holiday periods do require a little planning.

Camp sites get very busy over the school breaks, especially those on the coast or on lakes.

While most campsites have a percentage of their sites that cannot be booked, in order to claim one you will need to arrive very early during the summer.

We dealt with this challenge by heading inland to the mountains during summer where we had no trouble finding accommodation.

So look at visiting less popular places away from the coast during these busy times or be prepared to arrive very early at your destination and cross your fingers.

Campervan Security

It is important to plan how to keep your campervan and valuables secure.

Thankfully we were never broken into during our trip but it is worth taking measures to have peace of mind that your stuff is going to stay with you.

Our van was pretty old so we figured it was unlikely to be stolen (there were much better ones around!), but we were more worried about a break in.

Being an older van there was no alarm, no deadlocks and windows that were pretty easy to pull open.

Related: Best Anti Theft Backpacks for Travel

In cities we always stayed either in camp sites or in secure parking stations. We always pulled the blinds down when leaving the van in a car park or on the street.

Often one of us would stay with the campervan when doing grocery shopping if the area didn’t have a good vibe.

We didn’t come across many other travellers who had experienced a break in so there is no need to be overly concerned.

I just really didn’t want the hassle of losing our most important things, so were happy to take precautions.

Pacsafe Portable Safe

One of the things that gave us the most peace of mind was our Pacsafe Portable Safe.

It is a theft proof bag that can be used to store valuables in your van. We used the Pacsafe Travelsafe Portable Safe to lock our passports, documents and devices in when we weren’t in the campervan.

The bag was secured under one of the seats to lock it to the van. If we were free camping we would also secure it at night.

This bag has been one of our best travel purchases. We take it on every trip and use it everywhere we stay.

>> Click here to check the price and size options for the Pacsafe Portable safe .

Campervan Meals

In a past life eating out and experiencing the local food was a key part of any trip.

However, when you are feeding 4 people every day for 5 months in Europe, eating out quickly becomes a huge expense!

So if you are keen to save money, plan to cook most meals in the van.

To try and stay on budget we rarely ate out, but we still found ways to experience the local food.

Browsing the aisles at the supermarket for local treats and buying smaller snacks/treats when we were out sightseeing became our cheaper way of experiencing the local food.

Expert Tip:   Make sure you have enough food on hand to get through Sundays! Supermarkets are usually closed on Sunday, even in large towns

We recommend purchasing a camping recipe cookbook.

In the book we purchased every recipe could be cooked on a gas top. This ultimate RV cookbook was a great resource and we used it every day during our trip.

>> Click here to check the price for the camp cookbook .

Other essential kitchen items were:

• A stove top coffee maker for great coffee every day. We love our little Bialetti Moka Pot and it comes with us whenever we travel by camper van. Click here to check the price.
• A gas stove toast maker. 
• Unbreakable wine glasses. Tumblers work just fine too, but these just add a little extra!

Read more: The best campervan accessories

Grocery Shopping

It is a good idea to do your grocery shop on route between destinations.

Campgrounds are often not close to the shops and it is annoying to pack the van up to go to the supermarket once you arrive and set up camp.

Look for large supermarket chains to spend less, buy in bulk and shop less frequently.

Discount Supermarkets

Lidl and Aldi were by far the cheapest supermarkets in Europe.

We would look them up in Google maps while driving and make a detour to shop there on the way to our next camp site.

They may not have the best range of products but they saved us HUGE amounts of money. 

We can highly recommend that you buy beer, wine and spirits at the discount supermarkets.

We found many drinkable wines in the 2-4 euro price bracket and even found a decent bottle of gin at Aldi for 7 euros.

Admittedly our standards are lower when on a campervan road trip, but we still want to enjoy a glass of wine or beer at the end of the day!

Tracking your Europe Road Trip Costs

We recommend you set a budget and track your spending. I know if sounds boring, but it is not much fun if you plan to travel for 6 months and run out of cash in 3.

Costs can easily get out of hand, especially if you are doing a lot of activities, staying at camp sites and eating out.

We researched costs a lot before starting our trip. It is pretty difficult to find this information for a family of 4 and we just had to go with our gut a bit.

Expert Tip:   If you have the space, stock up on long life pantry items in cheaper countries to save money.

We set a budget by country, tracked it each day and reviewed it on a monthly basis.

Having a budget helped us make adjustments to our trip when we needed to in order to stay on track.

Budgeting Apps

There are a number of mobile apps out there to track your travel spending once you are on the road.

The one we love and use is Trabee Pocket . It allows you to easily track all your spending by country and category in the local and home currency on the go.

Download Trabee Pocket. Click for Apple Store download (iOS) Google Store download (Android)

You can also export your costs to other applications such as excel where you can track your overall travel budget. We highly recommend this app.

Transferring Money

If you decide to purchase a van in Europe and need to transfer funds internationally, we use and recommend Wise.

Wise offer competitive exchange rates without the huge fees charged by the banks and make international money transfers so simple.

Set up is quick and money can be transferred quickly and easily. Click here find out more about Wise.

Important Documents to Carry

Ensure you have a printed copy of the insurance papers and rental agreement/proof of ownership handy. Old school I know, but trust me, it is required!

We made the mistake of only having a soft copy of our camper insurance papers available on our mobile phone.

On crossing the border from Montenegro to Bosnia, we had to deal with a very irate Bosnian border officer who insisted that only a paper copy would do.

We were in the middle of nowhere and were forced to purchase additional van insurance at the border. Let’s just say it wasn’t a good day.

Also take originals of everyone’s birth certificates and marriage certificate.

You never know if and when you may need them and it is almost impossible to get them once you are touring Europe and moving regularly.

Ready To Plan Your Trip?

We have shared a bunch of information here for you to get started.

But if you are ready to get into the detail of trip planning, we highly recommend you take a look at the Europe Motorhoming Travel Toolkit by motorhome experts, Wandering Bird.

They have been exploring Europe fulltime for the best part of 3 years and share all their best tips and experience with you in one handy toolkit that offers outstanding value.

So what’s inside? The toolkit includes:

• Detailed Europe motorhome travel ebook
• Printable checklists
• Video tutorials
• In depth guide to off-grid camping in Europe
• Motorhome security guide, log book and MORE!

If you have started planning your first motorhome trip to Europe, this toolkit is hands down the best purchase you can make for stress free trip planning.

Final Travel Europe By Campervan Advice

Last but not least try and get off the beaten path on your tour of Europe.

While Western Europe offers many beautiful destinations, some of our favourite places were small towns in Eastern Europe. These countries are also significantly cheaper to travel in.

The beauty of traveling Europe in a motorhome is that you aren’t constrained by train or bus lines or hotels. You can travel anywhere!

This style of travel presents you with a great deal of freedom that you can’t achieve when traveling any other way.

Our Europe campervan trip was one of the highlights of our family gap year . 

We heartily recommend it as a family friendly way to travel and cannot wait to plan another trip.

If you are planning to RV through Europe and you have questions, please let us know in the comments below or contact us – we are happy to help.

Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Have we missed anything in our Motorhome in Europe guide? Leave your best tips for touring Europe in a campervan!

Read more about travel to Europe

• Europe by campervan with kids
• The best campervan accessories to buy
• Family Cycling Trip along the Danube River
• How to travel the world with kids
• Montenegro in pictures
• Triglav National Park, Slovenia

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Rachel Rodda

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19 thoughts on “the definitive guide to europe by campervan”.

Thanks for this detailed guide. We won’t be setting out for a couple of years when we retire. I am curious why you recommend bringing marriage license? Did you need to present it? Same question for birth certificate. Is a passport not enough? Thanks

Hi Cheryl, we took them as a backup precaution for two reasons – one was if we lost our passports. With copies of our birth certificates (and marriage certificate as I had changed my name), it would help fast track the process of getting new passports. When you are on the road it is quite slow to get things posted to you from your home country (and hard if you have packed everything away in storage at home). The second reason was to prove we were the parents of our children. In some countries (especially in Africa) they wanted to sight the kids birth certificates on land borders to prove we were their parents. It was also helpful if only one of us was traveling with the kids. I believe it is done to help prevent child trafficking. I hope this helps!

Rachel: THANK YOU so much for the comprehensive info! This one post answered 99% of my What About questions.

Hi Jodi, That’s great – there is a lot to learn when planning a Europe campervan trip. I’m glad we could help you out.

Hi I loved reading up on your advice . I am planning a 6 to 12 month trip around Europe. Just my wife and myself. Age 55 to 60 . We are pretty seasonal van travelers around Aus . Seeing your comments about the road access in off road camps answered my question regarding the size of van . I will be taking 2 x bikes . Is it worth getting an electric bike for my wife ? She hates hills . Also is there opportunities to tour across country a little by bikes . Maybe stay is B and Bs . One more thing did you see many travelers who carried a small boat and motor? I fond this a terrific part of my trips around Aus. Hope you can put a bit of light on these subjects. Cheers Jim Central coast NSW

Thanks for your message. We saw plenty of people with electric bikes in Europe – they are popular, so worth considering. There are plenty of opportunities to tour by bike in France, Germany and Austria. You can read about our bike tour along the Danube in this article https://www.adventureandsunshine.com/4-day-family-cycling-trip-danube-austria/ We didn’t see many campervans towing boats – but I am sure it is possible. It really depends where you want to travel. The challenge with Europe compared to Australia and the US is the size of many roads is small and narrow, which makes it especially challenging with long or wide vans, particularly in towns and mountain areas. Good luck planning your trip!

Hi Rachel Just want to say thank you for your answer. Much appreciated. We already made a budget (was around 200AUD$ per day) which then seems realistic since we are traveling without kids. Kind regards Christian

Hi Rachel, thanks for a great guide. We are looking at Rving in europe for 3 months (maybe longer) from Dec 20/21 winter with 2 kids who will be 8. We want to do some skiing in Austria and Italy and also want to take advantage of school holidays and low work commitments during those months in AUS. Hence the time of year. When i was a kid my parents took us on a 12 month trip through europe in an RV, mainly free camping with no heating when off grid and we survived, but that was the 70’s and we spent the winter mainly in southern europe. Im interested in what months you travelled and whether you think winter in and around the alps in a heated RV is a good idea. We could go a bit later and still ski through to easter, but im thinking that even if we do push the trip ending out to April, we may as well still go in Dec or Jan because work is slow and kids are on holdiays. Your thoughts?

Hi Tony, we traveled over the summer months from May through September, so I can’t give specific advice for RVing in winter. However, our van had a great heater and we were always warm when inside the van. My biggest concerns would be where to put all the ski gear (and where to dry it) and the fact you may need to spend a lot of time inside the van together. If you were skiing for just a short period that would probably be fine if you could find a campsite open where you could hang and dry your gear. Heading to southern europe over Dec/Jan is a great idea – it will still be cool, so not beach weather, but will be much quieter. Note however that many smaller areas all but close down over winter so consider where you want to go and check how much will be open over that time.

Hi Rachel Sounds like a really good trip. My girlfriend and i are thinking about taking a campervan Europe tour for +6 months…so we are ofcause interested in your trip. Is your budget to find here on this site? If not, can you share it? if yes, some level of details would be nice so that we can adjust it to our needs.

really nice site you have here. Thanks 🙂 Kind regards Christian and are spec

Hi Christian, we haven’t shared our costs on the blog, yet. Costs will vary enormously from person to person dependent on a lot of factors. Number of people, countries you visit, the size of van, whether you free camp or pay for campgrounds and how many paid activities you do. We traveled for 20 weeks with 2 adults and 2 school aged children. We mostly paid for campgrounds. Our average cost per day was $250 AUD. That includes the van, petrol and gas, laundry, campsites, food, sightseeing and activities, visas, public transport, equipment we bought for the van etc. Hopefully that is helpful! It is possible to travel much cheaper than that for 2 people who free camp more often and are able to buy and sell the van independently.

I know that Full time traveling is really hard for those who never tried any dare in normal life but peoples like you are real-life heroes. who never step back from any problem and fight with this. and your adventure always gives you great memories…. I like to read it and would like to read more n more about your van life…. Keep it up…. love all of you…

Great guide. We are at the beginning of considering a camping trip in Europe so glad to find your guide. Thanks for sharing

What great tips. We plan to travel Europe by camper van in summer next year and are just going through the shall we buy or rent scenarios. Previously rented for a month in NZ #FarawayFiles

It is a tough decision and depends on a lot of factors, with time being the biggest one. It is a fab place to visit by camper though! We would love to explore NZ by camper – one day!

What great tips Rachel. I think my favourites are – use a physical map and know the dimensions of your vehicle. We learned about those (again!) the hard way in Sicily and we only had a medium sized car. Google maps is certainly not your friend in some situations. Thanks for joining #FarawayFiles

Agreed, Katy. In a world full of online content, the physical map was still well used. I can’t recall how many times we cursed our Sat Nav or google maps! In a camper you definitely need to do a little research before you set off.

Great info here! I hope to one day go on a RV trip closer to home (across Canada, at least for my first taste of RV travel!), and even though that isn’t Europe, I think the pointers you’ve shared here are relevant! I had no clue that guaranteed buy-back ‘programs’ existed!

Thanks Bryna. The buy back schemes are a great compromise between buying and renting. Not sure of any companies in Canada who offer it. Let me know if you find one – we would love to do an RV trip across Canada!

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Europe Motorhome Tour – 6 Countries in 3 Months

Are you planning a motorhome trip to Europe, but don’t know where to start?

We’ve got the perfect Europe motorhome tour and itinerary for you! Whether you’re in a motorhome, campervan or even a car with a tent, our flexible three month European itinerary will take you on an incredible road trip around the continent.

From dramatic mountains, the Adriatic and Mediterranean seas, crystal clear lakes, lively and cultured cities and some spectacular driving roads, this journey will share breathtaking landscapes, exciting adventures and iconic sights as you tour Europe.

What you get with this tour and flexible itinerary;

• 44 detailed pages covering 87 days , including what to do and see, and where to go along the route + packing tips , trip notes , Schengen info and checklists .
• A 6300km route between campsites and attractions.
• 31 recommended campsites and aires suitable for motorhomes.
• 200+ attractions and points of interest along the route.
• Ready to use interactive Google Map with route, campsites and attractions detailed .
• Twelve insider tips that you won’t find in guide books.
• Five scenic driving roads plotted into your interactive map.

Europe Motorhome Tour & Itinerary

No time to research? Don’t worry, we’ve got that sorted!

Grab our three month flexible itinerary, packed with campsites, attractions and insider tips.

Go on tour knowing your route and stops are planned, with driving routes and campsites marked out for you on your interactive map.

Make the most of your holiday and let us do the planning for you.

+immediate download + read on any device + free lifetime updates

Price £24.99

Where Are You Going?

Germany – austria – slovenia – croatia – italy – france.

This itinerary starts in medieval Trier and heads south through beautiful Germany, taking in the Black Forest and Bavaria, before crossing the border into Austria and the Alps.

Taking in a couple of high Alpine passes, you’ll meander into Slovenia for stunning rivers and lakes, perfect for water sports or just messing about on the water.

Slovenia gives way to gorgeous Croatia, where you can grab some beach time and visit the picture perfect islands which are dotted along the stunning coastline.

Cross the Adriatic from Dubrovnik to Bari in Italy, and wend your way north visiting Rome and a couple of iconic Italian landmarks before reaching Tuscany, possibly one of the most breathtaking places in Europe, and its’ cultured and historic cities.

Next up is France, where you’ll visit lakes, gorges, rivers and beau villages before heading home.

Along the route, you’ll find suggestions for how to spend your time – whether you’re a history and culture vulture or an adventure seeker, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy with our itinerary.

You May Also Like…

Why Buy Our Itineraries?

• We have years of experience camping, caravanning and motorhoming in the UK and Europe. We’ve also lived in our motorhome full-time for three years…meaning we’ve visited LOTS of places and have gathered lots of information and insider knowledge.
• As well as visiting all the places we write about, our itineraries are extensively researched to ensure they are accurate and provide up to date information.
• Our itineraries come in PDF format that can be viewed on any device, just download and get reading.
• All the links in our itineraries are clickable, meaning you can check up on a particular campsite or view the map directly from your phone or tablet.
• We offer free lifetime updates. No catch, completely free, forever. Whenever we update an itinerary, you will be offered the chance to download the new version free of charge.
• Our site and payment gateway is 100% secure. You can pay safely and risk free with a debit or credit card or use Paypal.
• If you are not satisfied with your itinerary, we offer an uncomplicated, no questions asked refund within 7 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens when i check out.

• You will be taken directly to our secure payment gateway, where you are asked to enter your email and payment details. 
• If you want to receive automatic updates, tick the box and you will receive an opt-in email.
• Once this information is entered and your payment is accepted, a download button will appear on your screen. 
• Click this if you are using the same device on which you will view and use the itinerary. If that’s not the case, don’t worry, you’ll also be receiving an email within a few moments of purchase with a download link.
• You have three attempts to download your itinerary. If you need more attempts, please  email us .

What happens when I download the itinerary?

When you download the itinerary, it will appear on your screen in a web browser, such as Chrome or Safari. Select the share button and save to your phone, tablet, laptop or computer.

Can I print the itinerary?

Yes, but it will use quite a lot of ink as our itineraries also include images.

What if I’m not happy with my purchase?

We want you to be 100% satisfied, but if you’re not, drop us an email and we’ll sort a refund for you.

The Ultimate Guide to Touring Europe in a Motorhome

Planning to tour Europe in a motorhome? Before you hop into that idea, you may need to familiarize yourself with the benefits of recreational vehicles or RVing. Why would you want to choose a motorhome over other traditional options? Do you want the total freedom it provides? Or does its unique accommodation satisfy you?

In addition, you need to assess how motorhome-friendly European tours are. Yes, using your campervan in Europe is quite different than your usual weekend RVing. It requires better planning and a world of essentials. If you’re really into this kind of trip, you better keep your eyes on the road to  stay safe . Here’s an article to guide you in your RVing in Europe to take your smooth-sailing ride after you step on the gas.

What To Consider Before Starting The European Tour

Motorhome features.

First and foremost, you need to pick a motorhome. You may consider your needs first based on the number of passengers and the length of the trip. For these concerns, you may think about the type and quality of beds of the camper vans that’d accommodate you.

In most cases, beds turn into living rooms in an RV. There are standalone beds too. In choosing the bed type, you may dwell on the idea of determining whether or not you like the convertible or not. In addition, there are motorhomes with bunks, ideal for kids and teens.

Yet, most adults hate this feature. So, it’d be better to ask the passengers which type would they prefer. Other things to look at are the seating, kitchen and available appliances, and bathroom. If you haven’t chosen yet, you may go to stores offering RVs for hire, such as  wilderness.co.nz/motorhome-hire-nz  and others for a lot of camper vans to choose from.

Camping Costs

Like any RV tour, you’d always consider the expenses in gas, food, and other essentials. Generally, gas prices in Europe are higher than in most countries. If you want to cuts costs in this aspect, you may choose a smaller camper van. Ideally, couples could opt for compact vans for this purpose.

Apart from this, you would need to have a budget for your cooking needs. In many camper vans, propane tanks are used. The food and similar expenses differ in each European country. Food prices in Southern Europe are typically lower than in the North.

Roads and Routes

To save money, most campers in Europe take back roads. Usually, highways have road tolls that add up to expenses. Apart from the savings, backroads offer better landscapes where campers could stay in.

Regarding your stay, may it be on your own or with a partner, the easiest way you could get into Europe for RVing purposes is through short-term visa-free stays for 90 days. European Visa-exempt program allows this option for foreigners, but only for visits in the following countries identified as members of the Schengen Area:

• Czech Republic
• Netherlands

With this option, you may plan to take a Schengen country for a 90-day trip and move to a non-Schengen country for the next 30 days. Then, you may go back to a Schengen-covered country for another 90 days. Having this in mind, you could have a planned route before your much-awaited RVing.

However, by 2023, travelers would need to apply for European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to comply with the continent’s new travel guidelines. With this protocol, travelers need a valid passport and an approved ETIAS visa waiver to gain entry.

Seasons for a European Motorhome Trip

Generally, any season offers the best RVing experience for campers. Yet, many camping enthusiasts suggest the following months, as they’re known to have the lowest camping population and ideal temperature.

April to May:  During these months, campground prices are generally cheaper. In addition, most residents are inside their homes, so there are fewer people camping, especially in Continental Europe.

November to March:  This stretch is ideal for Southern Europe. Most campers head South because of the freezing temperature in the North during the winter season. Yet, the campgrounds are open and fabulous in these months.

June to August:  This may have the most pleasant temperature and campgrounds. Yet, it’s also the most populated as to the number of campers.

Final Thoughts

Suppose you’re already familiar with  motorhome  trips and the necessities for your ultimate European tour. Now, you may start to pick which places you’d go first. Ideally, most campers choose Croatia because of its picturesque scenery and rich culture. In addition, it’s smaller compared to other countries, making it preferable to beginners.

Another good destination is the United Kingdom. This country has a lot of camper-friendly roads and villages. Other places to choose from are Tuscany, Italy; Bavaria, Germany; and the Czech Republic. Before you continue, keep in mind that European countries have different laws for RVing and driving. You may need to be familiar with these rules before setting off for your European journey.

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10 Incredible Routes for a Motorhome Road Trip Through Europe

Is there anything more freeing or more exciting than heading out on a motorhome road trip? You don’t have to drive along the Great Ocean Road or Route 66 to get that feeling though: There are amazing tours hidden all across Europe, too. As a bit of inspiration for your next adventure, we’ve put together this list of incredible motorhome routes across Europe.

1. Follow the Nibelungs through Germany

The Rheinische Sagenweg is one of Germany's most spectacular tourist routes. It follows the Rhine river, traversing around 580 km between Dusseldorf and Mainz . The almost melodramatic natural scenery, such as the Lorelei and the Laacher See lake, have inspired many artists’ tales and legends, and these places haven’t lost any of their mystical charms over the centuries. With around 100 sightseeing attractions across nearly 50 different places, you’ll be whisked away on a trip through history.

Camping near the Lorelei in the Middle Rhine Valley

Discover German campsites

2. Atop Italy’s Peak

The Passa dello Stelvio (or Stelvio Pass) is Italy’s highest paved mountain pass. It connects the South Tyrolean town of Bormio in Lombardy with the municipality of Prato allo Stelvio . This route is one of the most impressive scenic mountain roads in the Alps: In addition to the beautiful mountainscape, the Piz de las Trais Linguas (“peak of the three languages”) and the roaring Saènt waterfall , there are numerous challenging curves that passionate motorhome drivers are sure to love.

Camping in the mountains

Find campsites in Italy

3. Over French Mountains and Past Palm Trees

The most famous French motorway connects Thonon-les-Bains on Lake Geneva with Menton on the French Riviera. The Route des Grandes Alpes traverses 16 alpine passes and ascends about 1 6,000 metres until finally, after about 700 km, you arrive at your final destination on the sunny Mediterranean coast. Some of the highest peaks in the Alps are part of this route’s imposing mountainscape, including Col de l’Iseran , which stands at an impressive 2,764 metres tall. Depending on the season, you can even watch the Tour de France cyclists from your motorhome.

A tranquil spot by the Lac de Serre-Ponçon

Find your favourite French campsites

4. A Trip Across Northern Europe

One of the oldest scenic routes in Scandinavia , the King’s Road has always been Northern Europe’s most important east-west connection. From the Norwegian mountains all the way to Saint Petersburg , Russia , this route travels via Oslo , Stockholm , the Swedish Åland islands and the Finnish capital of Helsinki . Thanks to the variety in scenery — from the capital cities to the diverse landscapes — you’ll never get tired of travelling along the route’s nearly 1,450 km long Scandinavian section.

A motorhome near the Steinsdalsfossen waterfall

Discover campsites in Norway

5. Iceland: Under the Northern Lights

You can drive around all of Iceland in about 14 hours via the Ring Road , but if you take your time travelling the 1,300 km route and make plenty of stops along the way, you’ll discover the most impressive sightseeing attractions that Iceland has to offer. Numerous spectacles of nature, like the roaring waterfalls Gullfoss and Seljalandsfoss , and the capital city, Reykjavik , await you here. In the months around the solstice, particularly along more rural sections of the route, you may even get to see the colourful Northern Lights dancing in the sky.

The Northern Lights in Iceland

Find campsites in Iceland

6. Spain’s Street of White Villages

The Ruta de los Pueblos Blancos crosses the Andalusian mountains from Arcos de la Frontera via the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park and the municipality of Zahara de la Sierra . This circular route leads you through about 30 snow-white villages with an Arabian style of architecture, nestled in the mountains amid lush greenery and gnarled olive trees. The Pueblos, like Benaocaz, for example, tell the stories of their Moorish builders and give visitors a glimpse of ancient Spain .

Driving through the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park

Discover Spanish campsites

7. Following the Path of Empress Elisabeth of Austria

One of Central Europe’s most majestic routes, the Straße der Kaiser und Könige (The Route of Emperors and Kings) connects medieval Regensburg in Germany to the Hungarian spa town of Budapest . Unlike those travelling by boat, when you travel by motorhome, you’ve got the advantage of being able to stop anywhere along the Danube river . In addition to seeing cultural highlights like Passau , Linz , Vienna and Bratislava , you should make sure your itinerary includes long walks through the river valley’s gorgeous landscapes .

Pristine nature along the Austrian lake, Putterersee

Find your perfect pitch in Austria

8. The Croatian Pearl of the Adriatic Sea

The Croatian Adriatic Highway from Opatija to Dubrovnik is a mountainous coastal path. With medieval cities, like Zagreb and Split , and the Plitvice Lakes National Park along the route, you have plenty of opportunities to take long breaks. With the mountains on your left, the azure-blue Mediterranean Sea on your right and countless curves, motorhome drivers will have a great time driving this route.

Gorgeous sea views in Croatia

Explore Croatia's campsites

9. A Tour of Ireland’s Coast

Covering more than 2,500 km from Derry in the north to Kinsale in the south, the Wild Atlantic Way is one of the world’s longest designated coastal roads. Ireland’s shores greet you with steep cliffs and narrow roads that wind their way through the green scenery. Formed by the awesome power of the Atlantic Ocean , bays like Ashleam Bay or Malin Beg are always worth a detour. Feeling adventurous? We dare you to take a dip in the icy Atlantic waters!

Experience Ireland's natural beauty from your caravan

Find campsites in Ireland

10. Through the Highlands

The West Highland Way is one of the first long-distance paths to cross the Scottish mountainscape, and it is a dream for all walkers and hikers. But you don’t have to be on foot to make your highland dreams come true: From Glasgow , you can drive your motorhome north to Fort William (about 180 km) via the A 82 motorway. The road passes by shaggy sheep and the legendary Loch Lomond , and it takes you through the famous Glen Coe.

The Scottish Highlands

Discover campsites in Scotland

Did you know that camping.info has hundreds of campsites you can book online? Here are the campsites you can book online.

Travel | Explore | Inspire

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling Europe in a Campervan

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning that if you click through & make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Has it been a dream of yours to travel Europe in a Campervan? Then look no further – this comprehensive blog post is FILLED with tips and advice on how to have the best van adventure ever.

We spent 8 months living in our beautiful Ford Transit campervan conversion exploring Europe, and now you can too with the help of this guide. We get asked a lot about how we did it and what it costs so we are sharing our experiences, the good and bad with you!

So if you are curious about what it takes, already have a camper van or want to add a road trip through Europe to your bucket list – dive right in. We are not leaving any details out- it’s stuff like this we wish we had known before we left on our trip.

Why Travel Europe in a Campervan?

How much does it cost.

• What to Consider Before Buying a Campervan?

Converting Your Van

Our route through europe, where to camp in europe, the best campervan resources, our van essentials – must have items, departure checklist.

• Petrol, Tolls and How to Avoid Them

Mobile Data

• Our Favourite Free Camping spots with GPS Co-ordinates

Location Highlights

Our whole route in detail.

• Freedom! Whether you buy a used motorhome or decide to build your own, we think the freedom that this gives you when travelling is the best feeling in the world!
• Being able to sleep wherever you want- next to amazing beaches, mountain views and lakes. You name it – having a van allows you to park and sleep in places that you never could do on a normal trip.
• Choose how long you want to stay and where, while having your own home to sleep and cook in also saves money.
• You can take everything you need with you for your favourite activities – we took surfboards, bikes, skateboards and snorkelling kits. Always be prepared for an adventure!
• Outdoor living and camping life with all the home comforts! We loved how homey and comfortable our van was.
• Travel for longer , spending less money.

Our daily budget was approximately £25 per day. This meant for 8 months we had a budget of £6000 for food, gas, petrol, tolls, parking/camping and sightseeing between the two of us. This budget for us, was super easy to stick to. We were in it for the long haul and once you are on the road you realise how little you actually need to spend in order to have an incredible time. 

Our camper van cost us about £6500 to purchase and convert. This might seem like a big investment including the daily budget, but once you sell your van you get that money back. Think how much money you would be spending on transport and hotels, the hours wasted on public transport and not being able to stay in some of the most insanely beautiful locations in Europe.

What to Consider Before Buying a Campervan

• Can you stand up in it? 

Phil is 6ft 6 so this was a tricky one but most High Top/Roof vans have exactly that amount of head room. This will make your time in your van much more comfortable. Medium Roof vans also work for some people. If you plan on spending a long time travelling in your van you will 100% want to be able to stand up.

• Reliability ! 

We spent hours researching the pros and cons of various types of vans and which models might suit our needs. Try and get something with a good service history and ask a garage to give it a once over. Is it easy to get replacement parts abroad, how many miles on the clock etc.

• A good nights rest

A comfy nights sleep was high on our list as we were planning to be in the van everyday for 8 months. Luckily building our own van allowed us to plan our bed layout and what mattress we wanted. We loved our double memory foam bed so it was worth the effort researching!

• How self sufficient do you need to be? 

We wanted to be able to go fully off grid for a few days at a time without having to fill up on water, empty our toilet and get supplies. So we had a fridge, large water storage, solar energy and running tap to keep us sustained.

• Do you want to live off grid?

How much electricity will you use or need – will you go solar and be a true off grid explorer? Getting a leisure battery that runs separately to your vans battery will give you so much extra power, you get even more time to be off grid by having solar panels.

It took us about 2 months working 6 days a week to do our Ford Transit campervan conversion! There are so many resources out there about how to plan and do the conversion. We loved using Pinterest for inspiration on designs, watching YouTube videos for how to guides and reading blog posts. Anyone who can use a few tools can get started from home once you have your van or motorhome. I had never used many of the tools before and built an entire kitchen from scratch.

We started off catching a ferry from Poole in the UK to Cherbourg in France and decided on a clock wise route of Western Europe. Our plan was to drive a maximum of 1-3 hours a day between locations. This worked out pretty perfectly for the length of our trip. We stayed in some places for just one night and the ones we liked we stayed more. For example we stayed in Paris for 3 nights and Rome for 5 nights but stops in between may only be for one night. To determine our route we would get out our resources ( Camperstop book, Park4Night app and Google) and see where looked good, had good camping spots and was within driving distance.

When you travel Europe you can park in places called Aires, also known as Motorhome stops. These are dedicated campervan parking spaces with varying facilities. Run by the town municipalities or privately owned they are often free or cost a couple of Euros per night. Some of the privately owned ones can have more facilities and will charge more (Up to £20 depending on where they are located.)

If you are looking at camping somewhere that has a lot of facilities then a Campsite will suit you. Things like showers, toilets, washing machines, swimming pools, scenic camping spots etc.

• Free Camping

Europe is very well suited to free camping. This is where you park somewhere that is not a designated Aire or campsite. You are parking your van in a space that allows overnight parking and have to be self sufficient. These could be side roads, beach car parks etc. You will have no facilities and can generally park for free for a night or two. The rules change from country to country and you must respect the local authorities. Most importantly, in order for free camping to remain allowed in Europe you must always leave no trace, never leave rubbish behind and be respectful of noise.

• Camperstop Europe Motorhome Guide

This was such a great resource for us for when we were on the road. Camperstop is a book you can purchase that has over 9000 of the Aires in Europe listed with GPS coordinates. You will find that certain countries have more aires than others so you may have to mix up the types of places that you stop.

If you are going to buy one resource- let it be this one .

• Campercontact

Campercontact is a website and app that is run by volunteers. You can search for Aires all over Europe just by searching by location. There are photos, reviews and GPS co-ordinates.

When we were in Germany, about 3-4 weeks into our trip we met someone at an Aire who happened to mention the app Park4Night. From this moment on it became one of the best resources we had for our trip in finding free camping. The information on the app is user generated, with people stating GPS coordinates of where they managed to stay for free! People can then rate these locations for future users. These locations range from side roads with free parking to cliff sides overlooking incredible beaches. It saved us an incredible amount of money and allowed us to stay in some of the most insanely beautiful locations that you would not normally be able to stay.

Ensure that you get a good GPS device with up to date maps for all of the countries that you are going to visit. As most of the information for where to stay is given in GPS coordinates this makes it a lot easier navigating. You will also be able to see where there are toll roads (and there are a lot) and how to avoid them. It will also inform you of the local speed limits for each country.

• Big Road Atlas – Europe

We also found it incredibly useful having a paper map. As our route was not set in stone, we would only plan where we wanted to visit a few days to a week in advance. You can plot your route on the paper map, which is also a lot of fun. It also becomes handy if for some reason your GPS device stops working and you need to go old school.

Get your Big Road Atlas here .

• Pinterest  

A great place to start to get your design ideas is Pinterest – there are thousand upon thousands of boards where you can get ideas. We had a particular style in mind as we needed space for our bikes and surfboards inside the van. It served as a great resource for us and helped in the planning process greatly. Every van design is so unique to each owner and it’s incredibly inspiring to see everyones camper van hacks.

• Fellow Travellers

Ask other people who have done this before for their advice. If you don’t know anyone personally there are plenty of blogs, forums, instagram pages all dedicated to #vanlife. Like this one for example. Don’t forget to pin this to Pinterest for reading later.

• Where to shop for food

Without a doubt the best place to shop for food in Europe is Lidl. This supermarket is in practically every country, has large carparks and cheap and delicious food.

Portable Toilet for Campervan

We debated this essential a fair bit before we decided to get one. Phil didn’t think we needed one and I did. In the end we realised it was a must have and enabled us to have a lot of off grid camping experiences. It is easy to build in to the framework of the van so it stays hidden. It is super easy to empty and clean. We would never do this trip again without one.

Get the Portable Toilet we used here .

Portable Electric Camping Shower

There are many different ways that you can have a shower in a van these days, no matter the size. Our shower was an outdoor one we plugged into to the back of our van using the power generated from our leisure battery. When the back doors to our van opened we simply placed a curtain rod with a shower curtain between the doors for privacy.

Get the Portable Electric Camping Shower we used here .

Campervan Fridge

Something we also debated whether to get because they cost quite a bit of money, was a fridge. Deciding whether to get one depends on how long you are going to be travelling for. As we were going for 8 months we deemed it necessary, we especially appreciated it in the summer heat wave enjoying our cold beers. There are several things that you have to take into account when getting a fridge. Does it need a flat surface, will its temperature remain low enough for the country you are visiting, so we recommend doing a lot of research.

We absolutely loved ours – this is the model that we got here .

Solar Panels for Campervan

We fitted 2 of these to the roof of our van and it kept our leisure battery charged long enough for us to be able to camp off grid for quite a few days. If you want to reach some off the beaten locations and not rely on plugging your van into electricity at campsites then we highly recommend fitting these. We did not need to plug in our van to external electricity sources our entire trip.

Your Vans Security

Van theft in Europe is quite common in certain areas and something you should definitely be aware of. Especially if you are keeping all your worldly belongings inside.

We fitted a sliding bolt lock to the inside of our back doors as an extra precaution. You will also want to consider where you park your van and always carry your important belongings with you (passport etc).

We unfortunately had our van broken in to when we were in Portugal. They broke open our side door window and climbed in taking the closest belongings they could find. This unfortunately happened to be my empty leather bag I treasured which had my wedding ring inside, my backpack with our DSLR camera, our hard drive with 6+ years of travel photos and our wash bags. These just happened to be left inside on this day when we visited the beach for just 1 hour. When we visited the local police station they were not surprised this had happened as it was very common in that area.

All we could have done was park somewhere more populated and not have left our belongings inside. We parked in a beach car park but right at the back because we wanted to camp there in the evening. Luckily for us there was a campervan shop close by so we could fix our window easily. But always be sensible, park in busy places when leaving your van and look after anything important.

A Good Mattress

One of the best purchases we made was getting a proper memory foam mattress. As Phil is quite tall we wanted to sleep lengthways and you can purchase shortened memory foam mattresses designed for boats which fit perfectly in a camper. When you don’t have a huge amount of living room this makes your time in the van so much more comfortable.

Mosquito Net

Having a mosquito net is definitely worth investing in. If you plan to travel when it is warm outside then you will more than likely want to have your windows open or even your doors. We had a mosquito net built into our window but would have loved one for our doors.

At dusk the mosquitos love to invade your van if you have the doors open – imagine your van being 40-50 degrees inside and you want to cool it down. Once you settle down to sleep, that is when you will spend all night irritated by buzzing noises flying past your ears every few minutes. Take heed of this advice, many nights were ruined by mosquitos invading our van.

Ventilation

Temperatures during summer in your van can get particularly high. The hottest our van reached was over 50 degrees inside during the peak of summer. We had a roof window installed which helped but what made a huge difference was having a fan that we attached to the wall. We didn’t manage to get the fan until half way through the trip, a huge mistake not having it before we started.

Get a fan like the one we used here .

Collapsible Table and Chairs

Grab a couple of collapsible camping chairs and a table to complete your alfresco dining situation. The chairs can be used for multiple purposes and just extend your living space. A collapsible table also means you don’t need a permanent fixture inside and creates more space.

Get the table and chairs like we used here. For the table click here and for the chairs click here .

Power Source

So you can go down two routes when designing your van. The simple DIY route where you just use battery powered lights and will charge your devices when you are driving using the cigarette lighter socket. The more advanced route is to have a leisure battery that supplies electricity to your lights, fridge, shower and electrical sockets so that you can charge devices when the engine isn’t on. Combine this with solar panels and you won’t need to charge the battery by driving much.

Gas for Cooking

We debated about what type of gas supply to get for our cooker for quite some time. For you it will depend on how long you are travelling for.

If you are planning on going on a short road trip, anywhere up to 1-2 months then i would say that you can buy a normal camping gas cooker and canisters.

If however you are planning on a longer journey as we did then you might want to consider purchasing a refillable LPG canister. Many of the European petrol stations have LPG pumps designed for filling up cars and you can buy the appropriate canister heads for each country. It is a lot cheaper and lasts a long time, we only had to fill up twice in 8 months. Be warned though, if you convert a camper van, filling these LPG canisters can be tricky if they are located inside your van. This is because some petrol stations deem it dangerous to do so.

Van Insurance

Ensure that you have comprehensive campervan insurance before you depart. If you plan to travel for an extended period of time outside of your home country then you will most likely need to purchase a specialised insurance policy.

It gets quite tricky determining if you need a campervan insurance policy or a normal van insurance policy if you have converted your camper. The way that this is determined is dependant on what permanent fixtures that your van has in place and then the DVLA classify your vehicle. If you have an accident and your van is not insured correctly this can cause problems when it comes to claiming. So you have to ensure that your policy covers you.

We used Adrian Flux as they were the only company that would cover us for the length of time that we needed in Europe. They were also the only company that offered us a policy for a campervan IN conversion (I.e not completed).

This may be different if you are from the UK now due to Brexit so it is worth shopping around and getting quotes on who will cover you. People often will get a camper van insurance policy over a normal one because it is a little cheaper. Obviously if you have a standard RV then it will be a much simpler process than insuring a self built camper.

You can find details for classifying your vehicle type with the DVLA here :- 

Breakdown Cover

We cannot rate this product highly enough. For a couple of hundred pounds for an 8 month journey this cover paid for itself. Let me tell you why…

Unfortunately for us, just 3 weeks before we were due to return to the UK our van broke down in Northern Spain. Yes, we managed to travel for over 7 months across the whole of Western Europe without a problem and then on the home stretch it goes kaput!

Luckily we had European Breakdown Cover and it honestly saved the rest of our trip. They provided a weeks worth of accommodation for free, a hire car for the entire duration that our van was at the mechanics, which was several weeks! They also provided flights home AND picked our van up from the mechanics and shipped it back to our home address.

Unfortunately the van could not be fixed in Spain, not only were they quoting an insanely overpriced bill, they didn’t get around to inspecting the van for 2 weeks. It was on the advice of our breakdown cover rep that we get it fixed in the UK to save money. Needless to say we think this is worth investing in. You just never know what is going to happen and it can cost thousands to either fix your van and/or ship it home.

Travel Insurance

As with any trip it’s super important to get a travel insurance policy for the duration of your trip. As someone who has had to claim on travel insurance policies in the past I can attest their worth and importance.

European Driving Kit

Most countries in Europe will require that you have a driving kit in your car at all times. These will include things like First Aid Kits, Visibility Vests, Warning Triangles. You may also need to apply headlamp stickers when driving in certain countries. Check what you need for each country you are planning on visiting and then buy the kit that has everything you need.

Get your kit here .

Petrol and Tolls

Petrol in europe.

This will be one of your biggest out goings on your budget. Since you will most likely be travelling long distances, the cost of petrol does add up and takes a huge chunk out of your daily spends. Prices vary from country to country with the cheapest we found to be in the tiny country of Andorra (it is tax free there).

These are temporary tax discs that you need to purchase before you enter certain countries. You can purchase them from lots of petrol stations before you cross the border and they are valid for varying amounts of time dependant on how long you plan on being in each country. We had to purchase Vignettes for Slovenia and Austria on our route (see below for full list of countries we visited)

Toll Roads and How to Avoid Them

Lots of the roads in Europe have tolls to pay and it is worth doing a bit of research before you embark on your route to see if you can avoid them. They can often make a journey far quicker but it is worth weighing up the prices versus time spent saved. Prices can be anywhere up to 50 euros depending on how long the route is.

For example if you plan on using the Mont Blanc tunnel to Chamonix it costs almost 50 euros, just to travel through the tunnel! The alternative route over the mountains is not even worth considering.

However if you take these tolls into account on your route it can help with your budget before you depart. Your GPS device will be able to tell which routes have toll roads and you can find out the costs online. You can then use your map to check if the alternative non toll roads are much slower. Often they can be much more scenic and only a little slower.

Currently you can use a UK sim card in Europe for up to 90 days as if you were at home. If you plan on travelling for longer than 90 days then you will need to think about alternative options.

We purchased local sim cards in some countries as they are pretty cheap. If you encounter problems with your SIM cards it can be difficult to rectify if you cannot speak the local language. Local sim cards are the simplest and cheapest route to take.

There are portable wifi devices that you can purchase that allow multiple devices to access the wifi. You pay a monthly fee but these are very expensive. It ultimately depends on how much time will be spent on the internet – will it be light use researching your destination or heavy use working on the road.

Our Favourite Free Camping Spots

Iconic locations.

Italy: Bellagio, Lake Como lat.45.976601 long.9.25433, 51 Via Alessandro Volta

A car park located on a hill overlooking Lake Como in Bellagio. A short walk to town where you can catch the passenger ferry to Menaggio and Varenna. Free fresh water available with little passing traffic. We stayed 2 nights.

Italy: Rome – Villa Borghese, Viale dl Giardino Zoologico

Imagine staying in the centre of Rome for 5 days for free! We found this spot on a blog post and it was perfect. Down a quiet street, next to the Zoo. Walking distance to Villa Borghese Park and central Rome. A diamond find for free camping.

The Mountains

France: Chamonix, Mont Blanc lat. 45.93312 long.6.884868

Great shaded wooded area, suited to smaller and larger vans than motorhomes. Nice picnic area and close to main road into Chamonix with biking trails accessible.

France: Les Gets, lat.46.149799 long.6.6582, 310-328 Route des Pesses

We stayed here for 4 nights for free. It’s a car park at the base of the town with access to toilets and water. Easy walk to town and quiet at night.

Northeast Spain: Montserrat GPS Unknown

On our way to Barcelona we stopped for a night here. There are plenty of places to stop along the way with the most incredible views of the mountains. I recommend using the Park4Night app to find a space to park.

The Most Scenic Viewpoints

Southern France: Views of Monaco, lat. 43.734501 long. 7.40159, 1094 – 1158 Route de la Tete de Chien

If you want insane views of Monaco/ Monte Carlo park here for the night. Hike up the Tete de Chien at night and morning for incredible city views. Picnic benches available.

Southern France: Valensole lat. 43.822179 long. 6.017428

Quite rural spot not far from the road, shaded under trees with great views of the lavender fields. Waking up to the smell of lavender and possible farmer. Accessed via private road, very private and beautiful.

Northern Spain: Llastres lat 43.51675 long. -5.269843

Great spot with ocean views. Good BBQ area and easy walk down hill into beautiful fishing village of Llastres.

The Best Beach Camping Spots

Northern Spain: Ferrol lat 43.556571 long. -8.298003

Absolutely stunning beach car park location. Literally overlooking the ocean with direct beach access. Bins and toilets available in season.

Belgium – Belgian Beers in Rochefort and Waffles in Brugge .

Netherlands – Lisse for Tulip Season and Amsterdam during Kings Day.

Germany – Heidelberg for history and castles. Triberg for the original Black Forest Gateaux and home of the Cuckoo Clock. Lindau in Lake Constance – just wow!

Austria – Salzburg – pretend you are in the Sound of Music!

Slovenia – Lake Bled , such a beautiful town and stunning lake. We would love to come back to Slovenia and explore more.

Croatia – Rovinj , a cute and colourful fishing village with incredible sunsets and seafood. Kamenjak National Park for endless nature and ocean vistas. Plitvice Lakes – the most insane set of lakes and waterfalls we have ever seen.

Italy – Alberobello , home of the unique Trulli houses. Matera – a cave town situated on a gorge, Wonder Woman was filmed here! Positano , an iconic place to visit in Italy. Pompei – visit this ancient towns ruins for free on the first Sunday of every month. Rome and Florence for the history and architecture, Tuscany for the rolling hills and Venice for the winding lanes and Burano. A dream come true visiting Lake Como and Lake Garda. Basically we loved all of Italy!

Southern France – Valensole for the lavender, Verdon Gorge for the most insane turquoise blue water and Tete de Chien for views overlooking Monaco. Cascade du Sautadet and Vallon Pont D’arc for water sports heaven in the Ardeche.

Southern Spain – Barcelona for Gaudi art and Tapas, Valencia for the Art Science Park and Nerja for dreamy town beach vibes. Puerto Banus for high fashion and luxury, Tarifa for kite surfing heaven and Seville for flamenco!

Portugal – Benagil caves , a huge cave with a hole in the roof and a beach inside and Ponta da Piedade for incredible coastal views. Lisbon for city chic and Pastel de Natas (Portuguese egg custard tarts) and Sintra to visit Pena Palace. Porto is a coastal city, you must see the Livraria Lello, marvel at the stunning tiles and cross the Dom Luis bridge.

Northern Spain – We adored Northern Spain for the Pico de Europas , San Juan Gaztelugatxe and San Sebastian . Incredible hiking and Pintxo’s – like tapas.

France: Cherbourg – Cambremer – Paris – Epernay (Known for Champagne)

Belgium: Rochefort – Dinant – Namur – Brugge

Netherlands: Lisse – Amsterdam

Germany: Heidelberg – Baden Baden – Schiltach – Triberg – Freiburg im Breisgau – Lindau – Garmisch Partenkirchen

Austria: Salzburg – Hallstatt – Gmund

Slovenia: Bled 

Croatia: Rovinj – Premantura – Plitvice Lakes – Zadar – Split – Dubrovnik – Split (Ferry to Ancona in Italy)

Italy: Ancona – Assisi – San Benedetto Del Tronto – Amatrice – Lake Compotosto – Mattinata – Alberobello – Locorotondo – Matera – Sorrento, Day trip to Positano – Pompei – Rome – Siena – Tuscany Hills – Florence – Verona – train to Venice – Lake Garda (Sirmione – Moderno – Torbole) – Molveno – Andalo (Dolomites) -Lake Como (Menaggio, Varenna, Bellagio) – Aosta 

France: Chamonix – Les Get – Tigne

Italy: La Thuile – Finala Ligure

France: Menton – Monaco – Nice – Canne – St Tropez – Verdon Gorge – Moustiers St Marie – Valensole (lavender) – Cascade Du Sautadet – Vallon Pont D’arc- Villefranche de conflet

Spain: – Montserrat – Barcelona (Gaudi) – Cambril – Valencia – Nerja – Puerto Banus/ Marbella (fancy rich place) – Tarifa – Seville (flamenco)

Portugal: -Albufeira – Benagil (caves) – Lagos (Ponta da Piedade) – Sagres – Lisbon – Cascais – Sintra (pena palace) – Ericeira -Peniche – Porto

Spain: Oia – Santiago De Compostela – Ferrol – Cudillero – Llastres – Covadonga – Picos De Europa – Llanes – San Juan De Gaztelugatxe – Bermeo/Bakio – Mundaka – San Sebastian

France: Saint Jean De Luz – Biarritz – Hossegor/Seignosse

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Rachel Hughes

Hey there! I'm Rachel Hughes aka Ever The Wanderer. I am a Digital Media Creator and long term travel expert. I help people realise their worth and what they can achieve.

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24 comments.

So interesting! My husband and I rented a campervan in Iceland and loved it. We never thought about traveling main land Europe in a campervan. Thanks for sharing!

Oh I’d love to visit Iceland by campervan! That must have been amazing! I highly recommend mainland Europe it’s honestly one of the best things we have ever done

Loved reading about your trip! I have so many dreams about doing a trip like this. Well, I guess I’ll start by doing something in California and the Western US. I didn’t know about portable toilets and showers. Good to know about those. Question, how do you factored for seasonality? Seems like you avoid traveling during winter (is that true?). Also, reading about the incident in Portugal made me wonder if a portable safe or another security mechanism exists. I have never thought about it but going to do some research.

Ah thank you! It was such an incredible journey for us! We can’t wait to do it again! We have done a few road trips in the US but never by campervan so that’s definitely on our list too. We planned to travel in the summer but a lot of people to go in winter as there are places with very mild temperatures like Portugal. A lot of vanlifers head there in winter, or pop in a wood burning stove and head to the mountains in the snow. Although I’m not sure we would do that, might be too cold haha. A portable safe is a great idea, unfortunately campervan windows are all built the same and have tiny plastic latches which can easily be broken. You just have to not leaves valuables inside I think or have a very secure safe. Some people had glass windows broken, if a thief wants something bad enough they don’t care. Next time we will definitely be more prepared.

Oh wow what an adventure it could have been! I would love to do something similar next year and reading your post just made me wanna do it even more. Can’t wait to hit the road again! 🙂

Wow this is an epic guide! And kudos to you for buying and converting your van for such little money. I’m struggling to buy one at the moment; the van market in the UK is not normal – dammit COVID.

Ah thank you! Yeah there weren’t too many vans around at the price point we wanted but we got lucky. I’ve not looked lately to see what it’s like but I think it’s a great investment because we got it all back plus extra when we sold it!

This is the kind of trip that I’d dream about forever (it’s literally my dream trip) but never actually do because I’d think it was unachievable. This post has changed that completely, and where you’ve included things to consider when planning a campervan trip has given me the confidence that I could do this! Really great post, thanks so much for sharing.

Ah I’m so glad I could motivate you to do it! That’s always my goal to show people how achievable dreams can be!

This is exactly the kind of guide that I need now! I’m in the process of swapping my car for a van to travel full time, so it was the perfect timing to come over your post. You really aswered a lot of the doubts I’ve had, especially considering extra battery/solar panel, toilet/shower etc. Saving this for when I get my van:)

Oh awesomeness best decision ever! Yeah we really thought about what to include in the post given the experience we had to make it easier for others! Solar panels were an awesome idea, so much off grid camping. And 100% a toilet and shower 😊

A great trip with so much information shared! Would love to tour around Europe.

Kariss Ainsworth

Doing this is a total dream of mine, van live looks amazing

It must be so cool to discover Europe with a camper van! I appreciate all the tips and info you gave, I am sure this will be super useful for the day I want to try this kind of adventure!

What an incredible adventure this must have been! Love all these tips and it’s interesting to see which places you chose to stop off at.

Michelle du Toit

Thank you for compiling this insanely useful guide to campervanning! Hubby and I are only at the stage where it’s a dream for us and your blog has covered a whole lot of tips that haven’t even crossed my mind yet.

It is a dream worth investing in for sure. Honestly the most free we have ever felt

What a beautiful itinerary. How long did it all take you? Living in Europe, it is hard to find time to do a full-blown road trip, I always end up just going to one place and back. Pinning it for when I finally find the time for this 🙂

Thank you! The Itinerary took us 8 months. The van build took two. Yeah you definitely need to make the time and it is so worth it!!

I have been thinking about doing a campervan road trip, but doing it in Europe seems pretty amazing!

Love this article! I am absolutely impressed by how many places you managed to visit on your road trip around Europe. Your photos are so beautiful as well.

Vanessa Shields

This sounds like the most amazing 8 months getting to see so many places by campervan! I would love to do this one day as long as the mattress was comfy. Lol. That would make or break it for me. I’d probably buy a van already updated like yours to make it easier. So cool how you can visit so many locations at your leisure this way!

This is incredible and super helpful. It’s honestly always been a dream of mine to backpack through Europe – though a camper van sounds even better! Especially since I’m not as young as I once was 😉

Ankita Sharma

well-written post! A friend of mine likes to travel and I was going on a trip with him. There was home setup in his car. Apart from this, I also watch vlogs of some couples, their setup is also similar. I liked the whole setup.

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Touring Europe in a Motorhome: Everything You Need to Know

By: Author Lisa Hunchenko

Posted on Last updated: June 23, 2021

It is not easy to see the whole of Europe. It may not be as big as other continents, but it indeed has many places worth visiting.

So what is the best way to do it? A campervan! Buying used campers from Oaktree Motorhomes or dealers alike may be the perfect way to see the beauty of this continent.

It gives you the freedom to explore places wherever and whenever you want to without the need to worry about things like hotels or restaurants. 

In this article, you can find helpful information on how to travel in a motorhome in Europe.

You can read about standard rules at campsites, in which countries you are allowed to wild-camp, where to park your RV when sightseeing, and much more.

Read on and have the best camping experience possible!

Table of Contents

Camping in Europe

Rules for driving, parking your campervan, wild camping, motorhome travel tips.

Touring Europe in a campervan is the best way to see the many sights in a short time.

After all, you have a vehicle that can carry almost anything you'll need to live on your own. But there are still some things you need to do and know if you want to enjoy your trip.

First of all, if you want to camp at the campsites , you will need to book in advance as some of them get full early.

You can also camp on private land with the owner’s permission, but it’s best to check where you can do that in the country you are visiting.

It is possible to wild-camp in some areas, but always make sure that you don’t disturb the locals or damage nature.

If you see a sign saying that camping is forbidden, don’t go there.

When parking on the roadside, make sure that your vehicle doesn’t block the road.

Avoid parking near landmarks and historical buildings, and in front of shops and restaurants. Also, check if it is allowed to park in the area.

Parking areas need to be free of obstacles, so make sure that you choose an unobstructed space that isn't close to any dangerous objects that may cause damage to your motorhome.

Most of Europe’s roads are quite good, except for those that run through forests and some mountain areas.

Due to the nature of these roads, they are often not up to standard and always have unpaved parts that may require special skills when driving a motorhome.

The other problem with them is that they are narrow, making it hard to pass by larger vehicles.

You should always anticipate slower traffic ahead of you and make sure that you have enough room to pass by everyone safely.

When driving on highways, always stick to the speed limit so as not to endanger other drivers .

When using the right-hand side of the road, make sure you do it only when it is safe and legal.

Don’t cross into oncoming traffic just because you are used to driving on the left side of the road at home. 

When passing by slower vehicles or crossing intersections, make sure that they see you first and give them enough time for maneuvering.

And remember that pedestrians always have priority over cars and motorhomes at pedestrian crossings.

Another thing you should keep in mind is that every country has different rules when it comes to driving on single-track roads and gravel paths.

In some countries, access is prohibited, while in others, it is only allowed if you have a 4×4 vehicle . Always check with local authorities before hitting the road.

When driving around Europe, it is crucial to know where you can park your RV easily.

There are certain places where parking is forbidden or restricted and where you need special permission.

The best approach is to stay overnight at a campsite or a secure parking lot near tourist attractions or cities.

You can find spots on websites like Parkopedia, which lists thousands of parking lots all over the world.

This website is handy if you travel outside the big cities – it may not be easy to find a safe place to leave your motorhome overnight.

If you decide to go wild-camping, make sure that you don’t disturb people who live nearby and don’t damage nature in any way.

Before going off-road, visit local authorities and ask how far away from houses and tourist attractions you can park your campervan legally.

You may even ask locals about good places for overnight parking. After all, there is nothing better than friendly advice!

There are some European countries where you can stay overnight in a wild camping area.

By doing that, you can avoid paying for the campsite or the parking lot and see beautiful nature at night.

Although wild camping in the UK will differ from Poland, one thing remains essential in every country – you have to make sure that you don’t disturb nature and the wildlife and don’t leave any traces of your stay behind.

When choosing a place for wild camping, make sure that you don’t select an area used by locals to live.

It is best to avoid populated areas and locations near schools and kindergartens.

Unfortunately, many wild-camping sites are filled with the garbage left behind by irresponsible campers, so make sure not to add to that.

Pack all your trash into plastic bags and dispose of it properly.

Keep in mind that most of the wild-camping sites have no toilets or washing facilities.

If that’s the case, make sure that you have a portable toilet and a camping shower with you. When you are done, make sure that your space is spotless and leave no trace.

When it comes to cooking, you should always use a portable stove. It is best to avoid open fire, as it can be unsafe for you and cause damage to nature.

If necessary, always light a campfire away from trees and bushes, and make sure that you have a fire extinguisher with you.

You can find many of them on Amazon at an affordable price. This will help you protect your camping site and nature. Also, remember to never cut any plants in the wild.

If you camp with your motorhome for the first time, think of it as a great adventure! It may be scary at first, but it will get easier every time you do it.

Before hitting the road and traveling Europe in a campervan, make sure no significant events or festivals are going on in the area.

That way, you can enjoy your trip without worrying about crowded places and traffic jams. Make sure that you are safe and enjoy every moment of your trip!

This story is brought to you in partnership with Oaktree Motorhomes.

Planning a trip? Go Backpacking recommends:

• G Adventures for small group tours.
• Hostelworld for booking hostels.

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10 European Campervan Routes – Inspiration for your next Road Trip

No doubt traveling around in a campervan emits a feeling of freedom and awakes everyone’s adventurous soul. And Europe has numerous options for campervan routes to take! It is the perfect continent to explore different countries, cultures, and sights within one single trip and have a once-in-a-lifetime road trip experience. As for me, living in Germany and therefore quite in the middle of Europe, I love to explore all the neighboring countries and cities. Therefore, I have compiled 10 different European campervan routes , from which you can pull inspiration for your next road trip adventure. All suggested routes are usually recommended for around 2-3 weeks , but of course, you can easily adapt them to your travel plans.

Have fun planning one of these European campervan routes and see you on the road!

Need a CamperVan for your trip? Then I recommend you to choose PaulCamper , the largest camper-sharing marketplace in Europe. It lists over 10,000 camping vehicles throughout Germany, Austria, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom for you to enjoy!

Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. Without costing you anything extra, the small commission will help me produce more free content for you. For more information, please refer to my  privacy policy .

Table of Contents

1. Slovenia and Croatia

Route: Lake Bled – Ljubljana – Piran – Pula – Zadar – Split

Suggested duration : 2 weeks

Overall length: 826 km (9 hours of driving)

Going on a Balkan road trip through Slovenia and Croatia is the ideal way to see many amazing places in a short time without breaking the bank. The suggested route offers the perfect combination of adventurous nature activities, relaxing beach days, and city sightseeing. Starting at Lake Bled , a magical place in the middle of Slovenia, you will have the chance to experience the country’s beauty in many ways. For more inspiration regarding this place, make sure to check out my list of the best things to do at Lake Bled . After some fun activities at the lake, you will continue your route to Ljubljana , the charming capital of Slovenia.

The small and colorful town of Piran will be the next stop on your Slovenia road trip itinerary . This place will amaze you with its picturesque old town, narrow alleys, and sunset views from the town wall. Even though the town is very small, there are quite a few interesting things to do in Piran .

The campervan route leads you over the Croatian border and into the historic city of Pula . Must-see activities in Pula include visits to the Roman Amphitheater, the Augustus Temple as well as the vibrant markets. After doing some sightseeing, it is time to move on along the Croatian coast to Zadar . The city is well-known for its historic ruins, churches, and a photogenic old town. The last stop on this road trip is Split . You definitely cannot miss the Diocletian’s Palace as well as the Peristil Square in the middle of the city when spending one day in Split . I recommend spending some relaxing last days on Split’s beautiful beaches.   

2. North Germany, Denmark & Norway

Route: Hamburg – Hirtshals – Kristiansand – Stavanger – Bergen – Oslo

Suggested duration: 3 weeks

Overall length: 1,500 km (23 hours of driving)

Budget : €€€€€

This is one of the European campervan routes that are perfectly suited for adventure-seeking couples or friends, who want to see and experience a lot and have a sufficient budget available for the trip. Starting in Hamburg , one of the most beautiful cities in Germany, you will head north to the very top of Denmark . Of course, if you have enough time, other stops in Denmark, like Copenhagen or Aarhus, are possible.

In Hirtshals , you will take the ferry to Kristiansand in south Norway . From here, you are open to experiencing the variety of fjords, mountains, national parks, and other beautiful places that southern Norway has to offer, at your own pace and within your itinerary. Make sure to visit the charming towns of Stavanger and Bergen during your trip. After many days of hiking and other nature-based activities, you will arrive in Oslo , the capital of Norway. Must-see activities in this city are visiting the Viking Ship Museum , strolling around Frogner Park, and taking a tour of the Akershus Fortress. For more inspiration, make sure to read my ultimate Southern Norway road trip itinerary .

3. Switzerland and North Italy

Route: Zürich – Lucerne – Bern – Turin – Milan – Bologna – Venice

Suggested duration: 2 weeks

Overall length: 1,000 km (12 hours of driving)

Budget: €€€€

From the mountains to the sea – this could be the motto of this beautiful European campervan route. Starting in Zürich , the biggest city in Switzerland, you will admire the old buildings in the city center, eat the most delicious cheese fondue, and stroll around the lake. Besides its picturesque mountains and lakes, Switzerland offers beautiful cities as well. On this road trip, you will also explore Lucerne and Bern , the country’s capital.

From Bern, you will head south and enjoy some Italian travel experiences . Turin , which lies in the region of Piemont, is well known for its outstanding architecture and cuisine. Besides many other things to do in Turin , the city is the ideal place to slow down in an Italian café and take photos of the aesthetic baroque buildings. Milan , the international center of fashion and design, as well as Bologna , the vivid and historic town, are other stops on your way through Italy. After spending several days strolling through pretty alleys and eating pizza, you will end your road trip to Venice , one of the most popular places to visit in Northern Italy . Even though the city is considered to be rather expensive, there are quite a few tips for visiting Venice on a budget and enjoying your trip to the fullest!

4. Austria and Budapest

Route: Innsbruck – Zell am See – Hallstatt – Graz – Vienna – Budapest

Suggested duration: 2-3 weeks

Overall length: 900 km (11 hours of driving)

Budget: €€€

This Europe campervan route takes you across Austria to the Hungarian capital Budapest. On your way through the mountains, you will experience a city break in Innsbruck , explore the ski region Zell am See, and visit the picturesque town of Hallstatt. On your way to Hallstatt, you can also make a stop in Salzburg, the city which is famous for the great musician Mozart. In both Graz and Vienna, you will find numerous beautiful Renaissance and Baroque-style buildings. Vienna, the vivid capital of Austria, will welcome you with many bars and restaurants as well as a beautiful castle (Schönbrunn Palace). From Vienna, it is only a 2.5-hour drive to the next capital – Budapest. Must-do experiences in Budapest include bathing in the famous thermal pools (Széchenyi Baths), going on a typical Danube river cruise, and walking across the Chain Bridge.

5. French Rivera and Catalonia

Route: Nice – Saint-Tropez – Marseille – Montpellier – Lloret de Mar – Barcelona – Tarragona

During this trip, you will travel alongside the sea the whole time and get plenty of vitamin D. Starting in Nice or Saint-Tropez at the Côte d’Azur, you will begin your trip in one of the sunniest and wealthiest corners of France. I recommend you continue your trip alongside the French Rivera by exploring the cities of Marseille and Montpellier. Once arrive in Spain, you can enjoy the party life in Lloret de Mar before heading to Barcelona, where you have the chance to visit the world-famous Sagrada Familia, try all the Spanish food, relax at the beach, or go shopping in the city center. You will see, there are countless things to do in Barcelona! From here, a trip to Tarragona is worthwhile as well. The city in southern Catalonia offers the perfect combination of ancient culture, lovely beaches, and adventurous amusement parks.

6. Andalusia and Portugal

Route: Málaga – Marbella – Gibraltar – Seville – Faro – Lagos – Lisbon – Porto

Overall length: 1,200 km (13 hours of driving)

This campervan route is perfect for all sun-seeking travelers and city-hoppers out there. The more time you can allow for this itinerary, the better! There are numerous cute places along the route which are all worth a stop. Malaga , the starting point of this itinerary, is one of my favorite European cities and the perfect vacation spot in Andalusia. The next stops are the picturesque city of Marbella as well as the British overseas territory Gibraltar . Make sure to plan enough time to visit all the beautiful historic buildings in Seville.

From Seville in Spain , you will drive across the Portuguese border and straight to the beautiful Algarve , the most southern region of Portugal. Both Faro and Lagos are THE destinations for having an incredible time at the Algarve and there are numerous beautiful beaches in Lagos and Faros. If you are eager to see more of the country, you should continue your trip to Lisbon , the charming capital of Portugal. For good reasons, the city on the Atlantic coast is regularly rated as one of the most beautiful cities worldwide. The last stop of this beautiful route is Porto .

7. Switzerland and France

Route: Bern – Lausanne – Geneva – Lyon – Clemon-Ferrand – Bordeaux – La Rochelle – Nantes – Paris

Overall length: 1,500 km (17 hours of driving)

This route is perfect for travelers who want to explore the different regions of France and seek a good mixture of cities and nature. Starting in Bern , the capital of Switzerland, you will explore the Western region of the country with its glittering lakes, mountain peaks, and picturesque cities of Lausanne and Geneva. From Lyon, you will drive through France’s breathtaking landscape to the Atlantic coast. In Bordeaux, the center of the famous wine-growing region, you will be immersed in French cuisine and culture. Heading further north, the beautiful cities of La Rochelle and Nantes are already waiting for you. Paris , the city of love, marks the end of this stunning route. The metropolis is one of the most visited cities around the world for good reason. As for me, I simply cannot get enough of all the Paris bucket list activities .  

8. Germany and The Netherlands

Route: Munich – Nuremberg – Rothenburg ob der Tauber – Frankfurt – Mainz – Cologne – Rotterdam – The Hague – Amsterdam

Overall length: 1000 km (12 hours of driving)

Located in the middle of Europe, Germany, and the Netherlands are perfect starting points for European campervan routes in any direction. However, they also offer great routes themselves. Especially southern Germany with its beautiful cities Munich, Nuremberg, and Rothenburg ob der Tauber is very attractive to international travelers. The vibrant cities of Frankfurt and Mainz should also be on your Germany Bucket List .

Continuing your trip along the Rhine River, you will not only drive through the country’s main wine regions but also discover historic castles. After you have discovered all the things to do in Cologne, the city with the iconic cathedral, you will cross the border to the harbor city Rotterdam in the Netherlands. In The Hague, you will finally reach the sea. Ending your trip to Amsterdam , the country’s lively capital, you will be amazed by the variety of colorful markets, lovely canals, narrow houses, and art museums.

9. Paris and South England

Route: Paris – Rouen – Brussels – Antwerp – London – Brighton – Bournemouth – Stonehenge – Bristol

Overall length: 1300 km (17 hours of driving, including ferry)

The last one of all European campervan routes promises lively metropolises, sightseeing tours, and the spectacular coast of southern England. Not only will you cover three amazing capitals (Paris, Brussels , and London) and three countries (France, Belgium , and England) during one single vacation, but also have a ferry trip included. If you are willing to explore lively cities such as London on a budget , discover beautiful coastal towns, eat the best English food, and visit a world heritage site ( Stonehenge ) all at once, this campervan route in Europe is perfect for you!

10. Italy Roundtrip

Route: Milan – Genoa – Cinque Terre – Pisa – Florence – Siena – Rome – Naples – Amalfi

Overall length: 1000 km (14 hours of driving)

Italy is one of the best destinations to enjoy the European summer and one of my favorite European campervan routes. During this marvelous Italy road trip , you will get to know the different regions of Italy, explore the picturesque place Cinque Terre , and enjoy all the things to do in Naples . You will learn about history in Rome , go shopping in Milan , drink wine in the Toscana , and take photos at the Leaning Tower of Pisa . On top, you will swim in the sea in Amalfi , marvel at ancient art masterpieces in Florence , and stroll around the harbor front in Genoa . I promise, this road trip, no matter if it’s with your friends or a solo trip to Italy , will not only be a lot of fun but also recharge your batteries completely!

You have finally decided on a route but you don’t know what to pack for the trip? Maybe my ultimate campervan packing list can help you out! Need more road trip inspiration? What about an epic Eastern Canada road trip ?

Which of the European campervan routes do you like most? What are your suggestions for the best campervan routes around Europe? Let me know in the comments down below!

Useful Travel Resources

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What are you looking for?

10 best campervan & motorhome/rv rentals in europe [2024].

Fun fact: we've spent over 6 months exploring Europe by campervan, and it's truly the BEST way to a large number of countries, in a very coinvent way.

Plus, Europe is set up for campervans and RVs in a very positive way! 

There really is no better way to explore Europe than by driving a campervan.

Rolling countryside, historical cities, and other natural attractions all await you, meaning you're in for an incredible adventure.

It’s super easy to travel between countries too, with most of them connected by land or just a short ferry ride away.

If you're not planning to convert your own campervan then you don't need to worry! 

Luckily, there are lots of large companies offering van rentals for camping, with depots in most or all of Europe.

Below we’ve highlighted the best campervan and motorhome hire options on the continent.

There are also many local independent companies that operate in a specific country. To secure these deals, we recommend using GoSee and narrowing down your search to your chosen city.

Let’s get started!

Travellerspoint

How to book a campervan rental in Europe

One of the simplest ways to hire a campervan in Europe is through GoSee Travel rentals .

With more than 300 thousand motorhome road trips and 3 million car rentals booked, they’re one of the largest motorhome rental agencies in the world.

Europe is a vast continent and campervans often sell out quickly.

GoSee can make it convenient to search the best campers for your dates and location all around Europe, and then you can book it all in the one platform.

Here's why I love recommending GoSee for finding campervan rentals in Europe:

• Price Beat Guarantee - If you manage to secure the same vehicle from the same supplier for the same dates at a lower price, GoSee will match the price.
• 24/7 award-winning customer support - The team is made up of experts on motorhomes who are ready to assist you anytime of the day.
• Excellent vehicles - GoSee offers thousands of vehicles to hire all over Europe and even beyond

For more info, read our in-depth review of GoSee Travel (Motorhome Republic) .

1. McRent - Best overall campervan & motorhome rental in Europe

• Pick up/drop off location/s - Almost all of Europe
• Price range - $-$$$
• Best suited for - Any traveler
• Availability - Check here

McRent is the largest motorhome rental in Europe and our top pick!

It’s a useful platform that combines many reputable rental companies across Europe, making it simple for customers to browse.

They offer long distance driver discounts, have exceptional customer service, insured vehicles, expert maintenance, and much more.

McRent also focuses on sustainability, which includes testing and certifying advertising materials, promoting local clubs, and being environmentally aware.

Additionally, the company cleans every vehicle professionally after each rental. Their high cleaning standards and hygiene ensure that all their vehicles are well-maintained and nice to live in!

If you're looking for to hire a motorhome in Europe then make sure you check this company out.

Vehicles on offer:

One of the best things about McRent is that they have such a huge variety of campers available.

From smaller vans, campervans with a pop-up roof, to fully-integrated vehicles and overcabs, it’s easy to find the right one for you.

There are options for smaller vehicles suitable for a city trip as well as larger motorhomes that include amenities to make a long trip feel more comfortable.

McRent’s motorhomes are all manufactured in Europe and adhere to Erwin Hymer Group brands standards, specifically Dethleffs and Sunlight.

All of their vehicles are also under 2 years old!

2. Outdoorsy - Most comprehensive rental marketplace in Europe

• Price range - $-$$
• Best suited for - Everyone

One of the most comprehensive platforms for renting RVs and motorhomes is Outdoorsy .

It’s a safe marketplace offering full insurance and an excellent selection.

Across Europe and worldwide, the company has more than 5,000 reviews with a 4.87 average rating and 240 thousand trips taken in total.

One unique thing about Outdoorsy is that they offer vehicle delivery. This includes dropping of the vehicle at your house, airport, or other locations, as well as setting it up directly at a campsite or RV park.

Whether you're looking for motorhome rentals in France or Germany , Outdoorsy is a fantastic choice! 

They offer a huge variety of vehicles so are often the top pick when it comes to Europe camper hire.

For more information about this platform, check out our in-depth Outdoorsy review !

Outdoorsy’s selection includes everything from Class A, B, and C RVs to vintage Airstreams and garden variety trailers.

From affordable campers to newer, luxury models, there are options for all budgets.

For example, the Korus 720 can sleep up to 5 passengers and has a 100-liter fresh water tank.

You can also see the customer reviews for each vehicle, allowing you to filter the ratings and choose only the best possible one.

Just make sure you check the amenities included for each campervan as they will all be different. Some might feature air conditioning and a generator, while others won't! 

3. Apollo - Best motorhome rental company in Germany and the UK

• Pick up/drop off location/s - Paris, Dublin, Hamburg, and several cities in the UK
• Price range - $$
• Best suited for - Families and couples

Apollo has been around since 1985 and is one of the best campervan hire companies in both the UK and Germany.

Their fleet of high-quality campervans and motorhomes are designed to cater for travelers across Europe and beyond.

This brand delivers great service that begins from booking all through to 24-hour roadside assistance and liability reduction.

Their rates are pretty competitive too with special discounts throughout the year.

Moreover, Apollo also strives to minimize their environmental impact by upholding sustainable practices.

All of Apollo’s motorhomes are built by Weinsberg, a leading manufacturer in Germany.

Vehicles range from 2 to 6 berths, making them ideal for couples and families or friend groups.

There’s the flagship Apollo brand, value option Cheapa Campa, and youthful Hippie Camper.

Most of the campers come with heating, shower, and kitchen facilities.

The Voyager , for example, is a 6-berth home away from home that offers fantastic value for road trips on a budget.

It has built-in GPS and reversing camera, a media player, and all the comforts of a mobile home.

4. Spaceships Rentals - Best for campervan hire in Europe and the UK

• Pick up/drop off location/s - London & Edinburgh
• Best suited for - Everyone from couples to groups

Although Spaceships Rentals only has offices in London and Edinburgh, it’s perfect if you want to start off your road trip in the UK and travel elsewhere in Europe.

The 24/7 contactless pick-up process makes it easy to plan your trip for anytime of the day.

All Spaceship vehicles come with unlimited mileage, and you can also have up to 4 drivers per booking without any additional fees.

Not to mention the standardized safety guidelines that cover everything from vehicle cleaning and booking to handover, collection and drop-off.

This company has a lot to offer, making them one of the best rental companies in the United Kingdom .

At Spaceships Rentals, you have camper and RV options from 1 to 7 berths.

Their custom-designed vehicles include features suitable for weekend breaks to long road trips.

There’s also the award-winning high-spec Adria SunLiving S70 SC , perfect for a luxury home on wheels.

It features a separate double bedroom with toilet and shower, full kitchen, and even underfloor heating.

And for those of you traveling with a furry friend, you can add a dog-friendly fee for just £10 per day.

5. Touring Cars - High-quality motorhome services provider in Europe

• Pick up/drop off location/s - Bulgaria, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Norway, Spain, Sweden, UK
• Best suited for -  Couples and groups

With 10 stations in 8 countries, Touring Cars is one of the oldest motorhome service providers in Europe.

Since 1982, they’ve adhered to extremely high standards of Finnish quality and reliability.

With Touring Cars, you only have to pay one down payment and the rest later (45 days before pick-up). Booking online has never been easier!

The best thing about renting from Touring Cars is that their fees include taxes and other official charges.

They offer convenient airport transfers and 24/7 road service too, as well as unlimited mileage.

There are also various long-term rental discounts with up to 15% off if you hire a vehicle for 45+ days.

Their fleet consists of leading German vehicles that are well-maintained and sanitized.

The have six motorhome categories when it comes to rentals, including options for 2-5 people.

There are both vans and motorhomes available, so there's something for everyone!

Finally, you’re welcome to travel with your pets if you pay the additional pet cleaning fee.

6. Yescapa - Best peer-to-peer RV rental in Europe

• Pick up/drop off location/s - Almost anywhere in Europe
• Best suited for - All travelers

Yescapa is an excellent alternative to Outdoorsy in that it’s also a peer-to-peer RV marketplace.

It basically connects travelers with local RV owners all over Europe, meaning the options are pretty much endless.

They’ve got an awesome blog filled with guests' campervan photos that might serve as extra travel inspiration.

In addition to 24/7 assistance, you get to enjoy cancellation insurance and the option to reduce excess insurance.

There are lots of discounts for things like longer rentals and early bird bookings too, so make sure to look out for those!

Yescapa has more than 15,000 RVs to choose from, including RVs, campers, and conversion vans.

The pricing starts at €50 for a 3-berth and 5-seater camper, like Jean-Baptiste's Campervan in Switzerland. 

But of course, you can find the perfect vehicle at pretty much any budget. That’s the beauty of a marketplace like Yescapa!

Plus, it’s easy to check out the reviews and ratings from previous renters.

7. Bunk Campers - Leading campervan rental in the UK and Ireland

• Pick up/drop off location/s - London, Belfast, Dublin, Edinburgh
• Best suited for - Couples and small groups 

If you’re starting your road trip in the UK, or specifically Heathrow airport in London, then Bunk Campers is the perfect campervan hire.

It’s located only 6 minutes from Terminal 5, so it’s very easy to just hop into the camper after arriving by plane.

You’ll get insurance, unlimited mileage, and 24/7 road assistance with each rental.

One of the best things about Bunk Campers is their booking flexibility, which means you can easily change the dates, duration, and even pick-up point of your trip.

With pick-up locations in Edinburgh , Belfast and Dublin too, Bunk Campers is one of the best options for campervan rentals in Scotland and Ireland !

Bunk Campers offers a selection of budget campers and luxury motorhomes from leading European manufacturers.

They’re also fitted with the latest EURO 6 ENGINES.

The Nomad Camper is a compact and functional VW campervan that features a classic and stylish design.

It comes with a pop-top roof, kitchenette, and heating, as well as BlueMotion technology for efficient fueling that allows you to road trip on a budget.

8. JustGo - Best rental in Europe for large motorhomes

• Pick up/drop off location/s - London & Scotland
• Best suited for - Families and groups

Although Just Go has depots only in Greater London and Scotland, you’re allowed to drive the vehicle outside of the country to explore other places in Europe.

They have one of the largest dedicated fleets of motorhomes in the UK , offering competitive prices and excellent road support.

Just Go also has a special 23 nights, 5 countries itinerary, which might be useful when planning your trip.

One thing to note is that they charge £5 per night for each hire as a way to support the British government’s low emission tax. A plus for the environment, but something to keep in mind!

This company has a lot to offer making them one of the best options for motorhome rentals in London !

As a dedicated motorhome hire company, they offer seven types of motorhome, as well as some mystery options.

One of their largest ones is the Adventurer, a 6-berth motorhome popular with families and friends for both camping and festival-going.

It’s got tons of storage, a hot shower and toilet, as well as cooking facilities such as an oven and fridge.

9. Auto Europe - Best affordable motorhome rental in Europe

• Pick up/drop off location/s - Paris, Malaga, London, Dublin, Barcelona, Lisbon, Berlin, Prague, and more

You’ll find some of Europe’s best budget-friendly campers with Auto Europe .

They’re an old name in the car hire industry with history dating back to 1954.

Auto Europe has fantastic deals that are region-specific and will give you the best value for your money!

From one-way journeys to unlimited mileage and no vehicle preparation fees, it’s a great option to help you cut down costs.

And not to mention their award-winning customer service!

Auto Europe’s fleet ranges from compact campers for 2 people to large motorhomes that can sleep up to 7.

The C30 is a great option for large families and groups who want to hit the countryside road together.

With plenty of storage and slideouts, the Class C motorhome is a great example of the RVs they offer!

10. Anywhere Campers - Most convenient campervan hire in Europe without a specific pick up/ drop off location

• Pick up/drop off location/s - Anywhere in Europe
• Best suited for - Cross-country travelers

True to its name, Anywhere Campers lets you pick up and drop off its rental campervan nearly anywhere in Europe.

It’s a great choice for anyone who wants to start and end their road trip in different countries.

The delivery service means that someone from the company will deliver your vehicle wherever you are. And the return is just as easy!

They offer roadside assistance, all-inclusive rates, and unlimited mileage.

Campers' vehicles are typically a year old, so there’s no need to doubt the quality.

You can choose between manual or auto transmission, and most of the options are bigger to accommodate longer road trips and larger groups.

Most of the campers also include accessories to make your trip more comfortable.

From BBQ grills and camping equipment to a shower, mountain bikes, and even a basic toolbox. Not to mention the detachable awning!

FAQs about Campervan & Motorhome Hire in Europe

Can you park a motorhome anywhere in europe.

It’s generally easy to find overnight parking on this continent as people are pretty tolerant of motorhomes and campers. But specific countries will have their own laws and regulations, so be sure to do some research beforehand when renting a motorhome in Europe.

Can you sleep in a van in Europe?

Yes, it’s legal to sleep in your car or van in Europe as long as you park in an area that allows overnight parking.  

Are campsites free in Europe?

Some European countries like France, Lithuania, Turkey, and Finland allow wild camping , which means you can park almost anywhere without paying anything. However, other countries have laws that forbid that.

This means that you should only park in designated spots and campsites where you often have to pay some kind of parking fee.

How old do you have to be to rent a campervan in Europe?

Most campervan rental companies in Europe will accept drivers who are at least 25 years old. But if you’re between 21 and 24 years old, you can also opt for a young driver surcharge to rent and drive the camper.

Which campervan rental will you choose?

Europe is honestly one of the best places to go on a campervan adventure.

After picking and booking your vehicle, it’s time to plan your trip ! 

Although this continent is generally known for its high prices, you'll find plenty of affordable countries in Europe to visit too.

If you’re traveling on a budget, then be sure to check out the Baltic countries , as well as Albania , North Macedonia , Romania , and Montenegro . Of course, there are plenty of ways to keep your costs low wherever you travel, and having a campervan is just one of them.

Wherever you decide to visit, you're in for the experience of a lifetime! 

All we can say, is don’t forget to explore the quintessential spots in Europe, experiencing the rich cultures, histories, cuisines, and architecture of the continent.

Feel free to drop a comment below with any questions!

If you've enjoyed this rental guide then here are some others that you may find helpful:

• The Best Campervan & Motorhome Rentals in Portugal
• The Best Campervan & Motorhome Rentals in Norway
• The Best Campervan & Motorhome Rentals in Italy

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How to Find Awesome RV Campgrounds in Europe

Posted on June 22, 2022 by Maureen Hochdorf

RV Camping in Europe is similar in many ways to camping in the US but also difficult in others. We took a 2-week RV trip from Rome to Paris, and one of the most challenging parts of the trip was finding campgrounds where we would be traveling. But once you know how and where to look, it becomes much easier. In this guide, we share the tools and tips we used to find RV campgrounds throughout Europe.

• 1 Are there RV Campgrounds in Europe?
• 2 Are RVs used for camping in Europe?
• 3 Can you rent RVs (motorhomes) in Europe?
• 4 Can you sleep anywhere in an RV (campervan) in Europe?
• 5 Can you boondock/wild camp in Europe?
• 6 How expensive is camping in Europe?
• 7.1 Finding RV Campgrounds in Europe via Apps
• 7.2 Finding RV Campgrounds in Europe via Online
• 7.3 Finding Boondocking (Wild Camping) in Europe
• 7.4 Finding French Aires 
• 8 RV Campgrounds in Italy and France
• 9.1 Share this:
• 9.2 Like this:

Are there RV Campgrounds in Europe?

First, let’s start by clarifying that, yes, there are RV parks in Europe. They may look quite different from RV parks in the US, but indeed, they exist. Most RV parks are smaller and have different amenities than those in the US, but you can definitely find them out there if you know where to look. 

Are RVs used for camping in Europe?

In Europe, the term, RV, is replaced with campervans or motorhomes – most Europeans don’t refer to them as RVs. You’ll find mostly two types of RVs throughout Europe – Class C and converted vans. Rarely, will you see the large Class A RVs like in the US due to their size and weight. Travel trailers are also used for camping in Europe but aren’t as popular. We were quite surprised by the amount of Class C RVs (motorhomes) we saw driving through Europe. 

Can you rent RVs (motorhomes) in Europe?

Yes, you can rent RVs in Europe. For our 2-week RV trip from Rome to Paris, we rented our Class C RV from Anywhere Campers. They specialize in international clients, providing everything you’ll need for your camping trip so you can exit the plane, grab your RV, and head out on your trip. From large storage areas on the outside for your luggage to all you’ll need on the inside, they’re the best company for out-of-towners. 

Can you sleep anywhere in an RV (campervan) in Europe?

Most countries in Europe have a wide range of camping areas, but some areas are off-limits for RVs. Popular FREE places to sleep overnight are Aires (designated rest areas), just off the highways. We stayed at a couple of aires in France that were spectacular. They included full hookups, water, restrooms, charging stations for electric cars, restaurants, and even a McDonald’s. 

Can you boondock/wild camp in Europe?

Europe has some of the best boondocking places in the world! In Europe, boondocking is commonly called wild camping, and there are a plethora of gorgeous places to camp. From beaches and pastures to mountainsides and even parking lots, you can wake up with some incredible views!

How expensive is camping in Europe?

Camping in Europe can range from quite cheap to a pretty penny, depending on where you stay. Boondocking and Aires are FREE camping options, and campgrounds cost between 10 – 50€.  It also depends on the time of year you go camping. Off-season (Spring, Fall, and Winter) are less expensive than on-season (Summer) campgrounds. The cheapest campground we stayed at was 12€ a night in Pisa, and the most expensive was 47€ a night in Paris. Keep in mind that most all campgrounds will also charge a city tax. 

How to find RV Campgrounds in Europe

There are a few tools I used to find suitable RV (motorhome) parks to stay at during our 2-week RV Trip. After a lot of research, the resources I used to find pretty much all of our campgrounds were the following apps: 

Finding RV Campgrounds in Europe via Apps

To find campgrounds in Italy and France, I used two apps: @park4night and @campercontact . Both are FREE apps and both have filter and location options. The best way to find campgrounds in the areas you will be staying at:

• Download the apps
• Add in the location you’re searching for
• Filter the options to RV accessible. 

Once I found a campground that I liked, I personally emailed them to ask about a reservation. You can also upgrade to the paid version and do it directly from the app. 

Finding RV Campgrounds in Europe via Online

There are also several resources you can use online to find campgrounds. Again, I found the above apps easier to use, but some people prefer to use online resources. 

• EuroCampings.net : EuroCampings filters campgrounds in 30 countries across Europe.
• Camper Guru : CamperGuru has a Freecamping map to find out where you can free camp and boondock around Europe.
• CamperOnline.it : CamperOnline is in Italian, but it has an English menu to search for camping info and sites across Europe.
• Camping France If you’re camping in France, this is a great site for finding campgrounds across the country.  
• Camping.it And if you’re camping in Italy, you can filter campgrounds by region using this online site.  

Finding Boondocking (Wild Camping) in Europe

To find boondocking sites that were legal to stay at overnight, I also used the park4night app and filtered it to parking spaces. This opened up all parking lots/areas in the location, including wild camping spots. 

We also went with the old-school method of driving and finding a spot that we liked. This is how we found a beach spot in Antibes – one of the most spectacular spots of the trip. Don’t underestimate this simple method. 

Finding French Aires 

To find French Aires (motorhome rest areas), I used the google maps app. French Aires aren’t always on the other maps but can be seen on google maps. Once you are on the road, open google maps on your phone and filter by service stations. You’ll then see all of the upcoming Aires on your route. This worked perfectly for us when we needed a rest or a quick overnight stop. 

RV Campgrounds in Italy and France

Throughout our 2-week RV trip , we combined a variety of camping options through Italy and France – campgrounds, wild camping, and Aires. We stayed at 7 campsites, 1 boondocking site, and 2 French Aires. We also took frequent rests and stops along the way at stops that we spotted by driving. No matter what type of campground you stay at, you’re bound to have a wonderful time!

Pin It – How to Find Awesome RV Campgrounds in Europe

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Category: Europe , Features , France , Italy , RV Travel Tags: Europe Campgrounds , Family travel , family vacation , Planning an RV Trip , Renting an RV , RV apps , RV campgrounds , RV rental , RV road trip , RV travel , RV travel guide , RV Trip , Travel , travel guide , traveling tips

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The Wayward Home

9 Compact RVs with Showers and Toilets for the Ultimate Road Trip Comfort

Posted: March 2, 2024 | Last updated: March 2, 2024

We’ve been living in a Sprinter van for the past two years – the same chassis where many companies build out their smallest RVs with a shower and toilet. Since we did a DIY van, we opted NOT to have a bathroom in our van.

However, I just spent a month traveling Europe in a variety of small RVs with bathrooms, and it WAS nice to have that hot shower and place to pee inside my rig. We refrained from going #2, though, as that can be gross to dump when you have a cassette toilet.

For the non-squeamish, a small RV with a shower and toilet can have a lot of benefits and is the ONLY way many people will travel, especially full-time.

With that in mind, here are some of our top picks!

1. Airstream Interstate 19

This smallest RV with shower and toilet covers all your basic needs but also provides you with features such as seat belts for four and a roomy lounge area. You can do day trips with your friends, cook lunch on the beach and take your entire family camping.

We love that this campervan with a bathroom is 4WD so you can go almost anywhere.

The bed has push-button control and flattens out to a large 66″ x 73″. You’ll also enjoy hot water, an LED widescreen TV and spacious, versatile bathroom. The wet bath in this smallest Class B RV with shower and toilet also includes a sink, built-in shampoo, conditioner and body wash stations. There’s even a clothesline!

2. Winnebago Revel

With its 4WD campervan attitude and diesel turbo engine, nothing is off-limits with this smallest RV with shower and bathroom.

The diesel heating system means that as long as you have diesel in your tank, you have warmth. The solar panels on the roof come as standard so you can really get off the grid and relax. The magnetic fly screen across the door is a real innovation that makes life easier. 

This small RV with a bathroom offers a 31″x26″ wet bath with a flexible showerhead, shower curtain, removable shelves, removable clothesline, swiveling cassette toilet and powered roof vent.

The biggest advantage of this model is the storage in the back. The bed lifts to the roof, allowing you to keep your bikes or other bulky items in the back while you’re on the road. 

3. Coachmen Nova

The Coachmen Nova is a new offering from this reputable RV brand. Choose between a twin bed model and a lay-flat power sofa.

This smallest RV with shower and toilet features a luxurious interior with blue LED lights, a 24″ LED TV, solid hardwood cabinetry and residential high rise faucet and sink. You’ll find a wet bath with a toilet and fiberglass shower.

The driver’s chairs swivel around making good use of space and it also means you don’t have to pack up your beds before you can sit for a morning coffee.

The bed layout in one of the models are twin beds with a cool swivel table in the middle – perfect for families.

4. Pleasure Way Plateau TS

The Pleasure Way TS Plateau is one of the smallest RVs with shower and toilet built on the Mercedes Benz chassis. You’ll find a large wet bath, a six cubic foot refrigerator, full-size wardrobe and extended galley.

In fact, the kitchen countertop extends to over 6 feet long and offers a cutting board over a large sink, a delight for cooks.

Enjoy the great outdoors from the comfort of this Class B RV with windows all around and a sliding side door. Sleep easy on a a base layer of medium density foam covered with 3 inches of memory foam.

The fully equipped wet bath features a medicine cabinet with mirror, storage compartment, china bowl toilet, towel rack and handheld showerhead.

5. Thor Coach Gemini

The Gemini by Thor Motor Coach is a stunning Class B+ smallest RV with a shower and toilet.

Driving this rig you could easily think you were driving a standard luxury vehicle as it has all the bells and whistles. There are two unique floor plans to choose from, convertible sleep-to-seating options, a huge retractable TV, and lots of storage inside and out. 

This AWD small RV with a bathroom has a built-in skylight, bringing in plenty of natural light. You’ll also find euro-style cabinet doors, nickel-finish hardware and residential vinyl flooring.

With the extra length comes the ability to extend the bathroom, creating a separate shower space. Officially classed as a B+, it’s easy to see the extra comfort that is provided in this small RV with shower and toilet.

6. Leisure Travel Wonder

As the largest RV on this list, you’d expect the Wonder to be packed with features. And it really is. Considering it’s still on the small side of RVs and a Class B, it packs so much in.

There are 4 designs to choose from and each has been cleverly thought-out for the full-time traveler. There’s plenty of headroom, storage lockers, and living space. All floorplans feature a double bed, kitchen, toilet, dinette, entertainment area, and swivel front seats .

Choose between having a rear lounge, rear twin beds, front twin beds, or a Murphy bed. There’s also plenty of upholstery and wall lining options. For a production RV, this build is very customizable. The front twin beds and the Murphy bed floorplans feature a wet bathroom, while the other two have a dry bath.

On the roof, there’s plenty of space to mount solar panels, so you can generate a good amount of energy to power your favorite gadgets. Overall, the Wonder must be one of the best small RVs with a shower and toilet currently on the market.

7. 13′ Scamp Deluxe

If you want a small trailer with toilet and shower you can stow away in the garage when you’re not adventuring, the Scamp Deluxe is perfect.

There are three floorplans. Layout B features a wet bath, while there’s no toilet in the other two. Layout B includes 2 closets, a kitchenette with sink and a stove, a wet bath, and a dinette that turns into a bed. It’s small, simple, yet very practical.

The interior is cozy yet modern; while the exterior has a vintage feel that makes it super cute. Scamp Trailers managed to squeeze a lot into this small space. On the front hitch, there’s space to store 2 gas bottles, so they’re safely outdoors and don’t take up any extra room.

The 13′ Scamp Deluxe weighs less than 2,000 pounds, so you can tow it with almost any car and it’s very fuel-efficient.

8. iCamp Elite

The iCamp Elite camper is a super lightweight (1,337lbs) and compact trailer. It’s the perfect vehicle to quickly prep and hitch to your car for a weekend or holiday adventure. The teardrop shape allows you to store bikes on the front, above the hitch.

There’s only one floorplan, but you can choose between an orange or blue package. Inside, there are a kitchen with a sink and stove, a wet bath, and a dinette that turns into a double bed. Every space is small but workable. It’s the price to pay for having a tiny trailer with all the comforts.

Even though it’s extra light, the iCamp Elite is well built. The steel frame is overlayed with a laminated structure foam body and finished with a gel coat of high-gloss fiberglass exterior skin. No wonder it’s so shiny.

9. Airstream Basecamp

When you picture a trailer, you instantly think of the iconic Airstream .

The Basecamp smallest RV with toilet and shower merges the classic Airstream aluminum shiny look with a more modern shape. The front is very similar to that of those old-school trailers you’re used to seeing on the NASA launchpad. From the back, it almost resembles a tiny spaceship. We can see what Airstream did there.

The interior is very contemporary and all the furniture follows and complements the rounded shapes of the exterior. You can choose between 4 floorplans – 2 at 16′ long and 2 at 20′ long. The layouts are very similar. They all feature a dinette that turns into a bed, a small kitchen, and a wet bath. The bigger models have an extra dinette in the front, which means they can sleep 4 people.

Among the options, there’s a two-room tent attachment, which gives you the option to camp with more people.

As you’d expect, Airstreams don’t come cheap. However, going for a smaller trailer will save you a decent amount of money.

8 Must-See Cheap Truck Campers for Thrifty Explorers

For those interested in getting into truck camping on a budget, starting your search with the best cheap truck campers is natural. I started my truck camping journey by installing a camper shell on a Tacoma and sleeping in the bed, but I couldn’t help but feel a little envy every time I passed a true truck camper on the road. 

• Read More: 8 Must-See Truck Campers for Thrifty Explorers

13 Gorgeous Luxury Campervans for Glamorous Travel

Are you looking to add some luxury to your outdoor adventures? We’ve rounded up the best luxury campervans we could find. There’s no reason to go off-roading without one of these beauties.

• Read More: 13 Luxury Campervans for Elevated Van Life Adventures

7 Hardy 4×4 Motorhomes To Get You Off-Grid

Part of the appeal of having an RV is to get away from modern life. However, while standard RVs allow you to explore the road less traveled, what if you want to get off the road entirely? 

In those instances, you need a rig that can handle more than just the pavement. A 4×4 motorhome ensures you can easily reach new places, even if they’re wild and untamed.

• Read More: 7 Hardy 4×4 Motorhomes To Get You Off-Grid

More Articles from The Wayward Home

• How to Make Money on the Road: 40+ Tips and Ideas for Van Lifers
• 19 Space-Saving RV Storage Ideas for your Camper Kitchen

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