Wild camping with your motorhome: stay overnight where you want to
The freer, the better! Wild camping gives an exceptional feeling of ultimate freedom and peace to go wherever you want. The name says it all, you go wild camping in nature. The idea of picking your own site with the most beautiful view is an attractive one for many motorhomers. And rightly so, because it is a unique experience. In this comprehensive blog post, we will delve into the various aspects of wild camping, with a general focus on the experience, regulations and practical tips for a responsible and fantastic wild camping experience.
The experience of motorhome wild camping
Wild camping is becoming increasingly popular. People appreciate exploring nature in complete freedom, also known as off-grid motorhoming. Wild camping therefore fits perfectly under this. Not only do you not use public utilities, but you also do not use electricity, water or sewage, and you put your motorhome on non-designated sites. Back to basics, in other words.
Wild camping offers a unique opportunity to escape the daily routine of life and fully immerse yourself in unspoilt nature. With a motorhome, you are flexible and have the freedom to choose your own camping spot away from the hustle and bustle of regular campsites. This way, you experience a deep connection with beautiful nature and enjoy the adventurous feeling that wild camping brings.
One of the most magical aspects of wild camping is waking up amidst nature. Enjoying the smell of fresh air, the sound of the wind and the peace of a still awakening world. Unlike traditional campsites or motorhome stopovers, wild camping offers the opportunity to wake up with nature as your only companion.
Thus, motorhome wild camping is also perfect for wildlife spotting, stargazing and exploring beautiful natural areas. Besides, with a motorhome you are not tied to tight schedules, giving you the freedom to spontaneously decide where the trip goes. With wild camping, you don't need to book your pitch and decide when to arrive and when to leave again. Every day can be a new adventure as a result.
Sites where wild camping with motorhome is and is not allowed
Not everywhere you can just go wild camping with your motorhome. There are countries where you can camp anywhere without any problems. These countries do not have many rules and give you a lot of space to choose where you want to go wild camping. However, it is important to note that wild camping rules vary between countries and even within regions of a country. While many European countries allow wild camping under certain conditions, there are also countries where it is strictly forbidden. And there are especially strict rules for motorhomers. So it is always advisable to get information locally, consult local signs and follow the regulations of specific areas to avoid potential problems while wild camping. We have here a list of examples of where you could, could not and with exception wildcamp with motorhome:
- Countries where you can wildcamp well: Sweden, Norway, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Switzerland.
- Countries where wild camping is tolerated in some sites and with high exceptions: Albania, Italy and Spain.
- Countries where wild camping is really not allowed: England, Austria, France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany.
Wild camping with motorhome in the Netherlands and Germany
Wild camping in Germany is completely prohibited, with the exception of bivouac zones. Bivouac zones are specially designated areas, usually in natural environments, where campers can stay overnight temporarily and primitively without being on an official campsite. These zones aim to provide an alternative and more natural form of camping, while trying to minimise environmental impact. In Germany, you can find these bivouac zones in the Eifel and Black Forest regions, among others.
Bivakzones are similar to the Dutch pole camping sites. These are special camping areas in the Netherlands managed by Staatsbosbeheer. These sites are intended for motorhomers who like to stay overnight in the middle of nature, away from the hustle and bustle of regular campsites. It is advisable to check the Staatsbosbeheer website for up-to-date information and specific rules for each terrain.
Want to be able to wildcamp completely, without being on a specific bivouac zone or pole camping site? Then you'll really have to look outside the Netherlands or Germany. Consider our beautiful routes within Scandinavia for easy motorhome wild camping.
Penalties for wild camping with motorhome
Do note that wild camping can lead to fines. These fines can also be quite high, so try to avoid this as much as possible. It is crucial to know that wild camping rules vary, even within a country, and what is allowed in one region may be restricted or prohibited elsewhere. Always consult local authorities, national parks or official sources to know the specific rules and regulations regarding wild camping in the country you want to visit.
Practical tips for motorhome wild camping
While wild camping is allowed in several sites and offers a lot of freedom, it is of course also logical to follow certain general rules. Wild camping may be free, but that does not mean you can carelessly make your own plans. Here are some general rules that apply when wild camping:
- Regulations and responsibility: It is important to be aware of the regulations regarding wild camping in different countries and regions. Some areas allow wild camping, while in others it is strictly forbidden. If you go by motorhome, you should take responsibility for your actions and live by the applicable laws and regulations. It is therefore useful to research well in advance which countries and areas allow wild camping to avoid fines.
- Make sure you have the right equipment: Don't just think about having enough warm clothes or the right shoes, but also the right tyres for under your motorhome in the country where you will be wild camping. For example, think about winter tyres to drive with if you are going to drive a route in Scandinavia during the winter season.
- Preparation is half the battle: When wild camping, you do not depend on an official motorhome site. This means that you only carry supplies you take with you in your motorhome. So it's handy to bring your own food, water and other supplies. This is also the pre-fun as it adds to your unique sense of independence and adventure. Also, don't forget to bring extra fuel. Not every wilderness route has a filling station to replenish your fuel. So it is wise to always take a supply with you.
- Safety: Consider various safety measures to ensure a safe experience. Also consider aspects such as navigation or knowledge of the weather. Not every area has good connectivity. And what do you do when it's pouring down? In addition, safety is also important when you have found your perfect spot in the pristine piece of nature. So be careful with fires, stand in a sturdy spot and make sure you always carry a first aid kit.
- Informing where you are: Informing someone when you are going and when you plan to return is essential. In an emergency, this can be invaluable. While we are much more accessible in today's age, this is really not the case in all areas. Especially not if you also enjoy off-road wild camping. By informing your fellow travellers of where you are and what you are planning, help can be arranged for you faster.
- Length of stay: It is important to note that in some areas there are restrictions on how long you can stay at one site. To get specific information on where wild camping is allowed and which rules apply, it is advisable to contact local foresters (such as at national parks), municipal authorities, or tourist information centres in the specific area where you plan to camp.
- Ecological considerations: Be aware of your impact in this ecological piece of nature. Avoid disturbing flora and fauna and treat nature respectfully. Clean up your waste and leave the piece of land as you found it. The "Leave No Trace" principle is universal here, even in places where wild camping is allowed, to respect nature and minimise impact.
Now enjoy motorhome wild camping yourself
Motorhome wild camping offers an adventurous and liberating experience, but it requires careful planning and respect for nature. By following the rules, being environmentally conscious and being well prepared, you can enjoy the ultimate freedom of motorhome life while exploring beautiful nature.
Looking for inspiration for your next campervan trip? Then check our app and find the best accommodation locations and the most beautiful Motorhome Route anytime and anywhere. A great route for wild camping can be found in Scandinavia. Like the route in Norway: High mountains, deep fjords or the Norwegian west coast and the Lofoten Islands. Buy Campercontact PRO now and get access to all reviews, photos and extensive search and filter options on these routes.