Camping in Europe

What are my consumer rights when booking a camping holiday in Europe?

When booking a tent or caravan holiday in the EU, Norway, or Iceland, you should know that camping rules differ in every country. On this page, you can find all essential information regarding your consumer rights when booking a camping holiday in Europe.  

Camping in Europe

    Camping is rising in popularity. When it comes to planning a trip outdoors, camping offers some of the most affordable options. If you are going on a trip, always check which rules apply for the country or countries you are going to travel. 

  • In most EU countries, it is forbidden to stay overnight in car parks and rest areas with a caravan or motorhome. Camper vans are often not allowed in car parks.

    If you want to travel across Europe with your camper van, check the local rules before you plan your holiday. 

    #camping-in-car-parks

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  • It is worth comparing the prices of different campsites. However, you should bear in mind that prices often vary — many different cost points should be added up to calculate the total price. Examples include the pitch, accommodation costs for adults or children, and additional costs like visitor's tax, electricity, and water.

    The number of individuals, the size of the pitch, the number of vehicles, and the number of tents are decisive for the price calculation. Ask about the total price on arrival at the latest.

    #comparing-campsite-prices

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  • Many campers don’t book campsites in advance. But this type of holiday is increasingly popular. More and more campsites require a reservation and — especially during the peak season — a minimum duration of stay.

    #booking-for-campsites

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  • If you are planning to stay at a specific camping site during the peak season, ask if there are any special conditions relating to the length of your stay.

    Make sure you know the check-in and check-out times (these are particularly important if you arrive late at night or leave early in the morning).

    If your camper van or caravan is quite big, check if pitches are large enough.

    If you have any special requirements (for example, a baby toilet or a dog area), have a look at the campsite map and pick a pitch close to the facilities you need.

    #campsite-booking-tips

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  • Make sure to read the campsite’s (cancellation) policies in advance!

    If a consumer cancels the camping trip, they are usually obliged to compensate the campsite for the resulting loss or damage. That means it’s usually impossible to cancel a booking free of charge.

    Compared to other types of accommodation (such as hotels), campsites are much more flexible when it comes to cancellations. They often don’t charge a cancellation fee. But as camping is growing in popularity, cancellation fees are becoming common among campsites.

    #cancelling-a-camping-trip

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  • Before you pitch your tent, motorhome, or caravan in the great outdoors, you should find out if you are allowed to do so in the country in question. If you violate regulations, you may be subject to heavy fines. Do some research on the Internet or ask a local expert — for example, a tourist information office or a municipal administration.

    In most European countries, it is forbidden to pitch your tent outside campsites. Usually, it is only allowed on private property, provided that the owner gives permission.

    Nowadays, garden sharing is also an option you can look for.

    #camping-in-the-wild

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  • Each country has its own customs and rules.

    Spain, for example, has private car parks where camping is usually allowed, provided that you pay a small fee. In Sweden, on the other hand, you can pitch your tent in the open countryside if you follow a few rules: you can’t go wild camping near a house or leave any traces, such as campfires or rubbish.

    However, the following applies uniformly across Europe: camping is not permitted in public areas such as parks, green spaces, and squares. The ban includes typical camping activities, such as barbecuing and hanging out laundry.

    #local-camping-customs

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Where can I get assistance and advice?

The European Consumer Centres Network provides free legal advice and support on cross-border purchasing issues. It can also help consumers deal with disputes relating to travelling in the EU, Norway, and Iceland. If you have tried to resolve a dispute with a business to no avail, click here to contact your local ECC and submit an enquiry.

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