Camping & Travel
When travelling and living in a camper van or motorhome you can chose to stay in campsites or free camp in acceptable areas. The facilities you have in your vehicle, namely a toilet and shower, will determine whether you can, or how often you can camp for free.
Sections
Campsites vs Free Camping
Campsites offer the greatest amount of facilities and the greatest security but cost money. To stretch your funds and increase your travelling time you can consider camping for free, or 'free camping'. I personally do both. I often free camp for several days, parking in acceptable areas such as beach car parks, using the toilets and (normally cold) beach showers. Every few days I go to a campsite. Whilst in the campsite I wash my clothes, top up my fresh water, dispose of my waste water and do anything I need to whilst I am them. This is a great way of reducing your camping costs.
Either way is good for meeting people. If you are incorporating water sports into your trip, such as surfing, windsurfing, kayaking, etc. then free camping by the beach offers a great advantage as you can watch the conditions of the sea and wind and get in the water whenever you like. You'll also meet more people practicing your sport.
Cities
Driving and staying in cities is more difficult with a large vehicle such as a camper van or motorhome. See our guide to cities.
Tips
See our camping tips section.
Essentials
Be sure to see our camping trip essentials guide.
Here are some related pages that should be useful...
Camping locations
We have comprehensive information about many of the most popular camper van and motorhome camping locations.
We are always looking for more information. If you can contribute any notes or information then please contact us. Read more »
Campsites
Campsites are popular everywhere where you might consider living or travelling in a camper van or motorhome. Read more »
Wild Camping or Free Camping
Wild camping, or free camping is where you park your vehicle in an acceptable place, such as a beach car park, and camp for free. Camping is perhaps a misleading term. In most countries erecting a tent is not accepted, and you should ensure that all of your things remain in your vehicle. Sitting outside with a table and chairs is fine, as is hanging out your washing. Read more »
Cities
A Guide to Living in a Camper Van
Living in a camper van or motorhome is a cheap and convenient way to see lots of locations. If you are looking to explore in comfort then it is a great option. Read more »
Saving money
Free camp
By free camping, as well as staying in campsites you can reduce your daily accommodation costs. Free camping is tolerated, and even encouraged, in some areas. Read more »
Tips
I have compiled some tips to help your camping experiences. Read more »
Travelling alone in a camper van or motorhome
Many people travel alone in a camper van or motorhome. I did so in 2006 through western Europe, and had a great time. It is easy to meet other people when travelling. Whether you are staying in campsites or free camping, there are friendly people everywhere. Read more »
Trip essentials
There are several things you should consider for a trip, whether you are going on a long or short trip. Read more »
Food and drink
Enjoying good food is one of the highlights of any traveling trip. Keeping costs down is a priority of most peoples trips. Keeping things simple can help greatly in preparing and clearing up after cooking. Here are some recipe ideas that may inspire you to try something different. Read more »
WiFi, 3G and Mobile Internet in Europe
It is now possible to have reasonably priced mobile internet (3G) in many countries in Europe, without having to enter into a contract for more than 1 month. Read more »
Camper Van Life is brought to you by Darren Lambert, a big fan of camper vans.
My girlfriend and I are hitting the road in August and I'm curious if we should be planning on staying at campsites more than boondocking. Her and I really wanna see the beauties of the United States so however we can do that safely is important.
Thanks to anyone who responds!
Kyle Golembiewski
Hi
I would recommend doing both to start with. See how you find each style of camping, then decide from there.
I prefer boondocking, or wild camping as we call it in Europe, but like to visit a campsite once a week to freshen up the vehicle, and do laundry.
Have a great trip.
We are planning to visit Bulgaria this summer with our three kids and are looking for a reliable campervan hire in Bulgaria. Does anybody out there has experience campervan rentals in Bulgaria and could forward some contacts.
Thank you very much in advance, kind regards,
Bernhard
Here in Australia it depends on where you are. There are a number of free and cheap ($5 per night) campsites around the country. You still have to be careful. The wild animals in these parts are the feral humans.
well money counts but security counts more. so if we pay a amount to campsites than we are fully secured, not only from thieves but also from wild animals.
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