Key points to remember
Camping in Europe: a strong tradition in France, Italy, Croatia, Scandinavia. Costs 20-40€/night for a tent + car pitch. Wild camping is legal in Nordic countries (right to roam), forbidden in France except for high-altitude bivouac.
My Camping Experience in Europe:
Camping in Europe
Sleeping in a tent while it’s raining… No thanks. But since summer 2009, I changed my mind, a friend suggested going camping in the south of France, and I hesitated a lot. In the end, I bought my tent from an online store where you can easily find camping and outdoor gear. I decided to put my prejudices aside and we went with friends to campsites on the French Riviera, then in Italy. One thing stands out from this trip with friends: I will probably go back in the years to come.
My experience
My best camping memory: the Norwegian fjords in 2019, tent pitched facing Trolltunga, coffee at sunrise. Cost: 0€. Unbeatable in Scandinavia, where nature is freely accessible.
The disadvantages of camping in Europe
Advantages
- Very low cost
- Freedom of itinerary
- Close to nature
- Outdoor living
- Friendliness among campers
Weak points
- Unpredictable weather
- Limited comfort
- Load to carry (tent, bag)
- Risk of continuous rain
- Basic hygiene
Certainly, there are some disadvantages when camping, even if they are minor details: for example, many imagine a somewhat precarious aspect when they think of camping, whereas there is no reason to panic, everything is clean and tidy! Then there is still the problem of sanitary facilities: for those in tents, like me (yes, there is a first time for everything), the sanitary facilities, meaning toilets, showers, and sinks, are sometimes far from the designated pitch upon arrival, which can be inconvenient. On the other hand, those staying in bungalows do not have this problem: everything needed is inside! For my part, I was initially a bit anxious, knowing that Italian campsites do not always have a good reputation, but in the end, I was not too badly off.
Did you know?
Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Scotland apply the “right of access” (Allemansrätten) which allows wild camping everywhere, including on private property, provided nature and tranquility are respected.
Advantages of camping
The classic trap to avoid
Always check the country’s legislation before pitching your tent in the wild. In France, Italy, Spain: heavy fines possible (€90 to €1,500). In Scandinavia, legal but strict respect for nature is expected.
Now, let’s talk about the advantages of camping, because there are many (and you are reading from a former skeptic!). The first big advantage is the price. Indeed, a camping trip costs very little, no need to stress about finding the lowest prices, as these are economical options. Moreover, camping offers an unbeatable and unmatched convivial atmosphere: I will always remember our wild evenings with friends, our new encounters made by the pool, during aquagym or at organized evenings. During these evenings, we met young people and families from all backgrounds, which is particularly enriching. Finally, the last big positive point (and not least) is the autonomy and independence we enjoy: no one on your back, no worries other than the upcoming meal, in short, a very appreciated formula for young people like me. You could say it was a crazy vacation, pure happiness! The combination of camping and Europe: a success!
Is wild camping legal in Europe?
Legal in Scandinavia and Scotland. Forbidden or strictly regulated in most other countries.
How much does camping cost in Europe?
€20 to €40 per night for tent + car pitch. Mobile home: €50-100.
What season for camping in Europe?
May to September in the North. April to October in the South.
Other readings that follow the same logic: our review on cheap destinations that sets the tone, the practical guide on European capitals reviews for concrete details, and finally getting around in if you want to extend the reflection.
| Country | Wild camping |
|---|---|
| Norway, Sweden, Finland | Allowed (Allemansrätten) |
| Scotland | Allowed |
| France | Forbidden (except high mountain bivouac) |
| Italy, Spain | Forbidden (fines) |
| Croatia, Slovenia | Forbidden |
