When talking about experiencing Europe on a budget, people will often suggest backpacking. There are plenty of hostels or other cheap accommodation, from budget hotels to agricultural stays. However, another option for seeing the continent on a budget is camping. It allows you to travel around at your own pace between countries and enjoy the outdoors, which is a great option for people who would rather not be in a city. Even if you do want to see major towns and cities, camping just outside can make your accommodation cheaper. So how can you make your camping trips a positive experience?
Find the Best Places to Camp
Europe is full of wonderful camping venues. Some campgrounds are more bare-bones than others, but plenty of them have lots of facilities. Consider what sort of environment you’re looking for. You might end up camping somewhere quiet that provides the bare minimum, such as a toilet block and maybe a little shop. Or you could be looking for a larger place that offers family-friendly facilities, which could include a pool, playground, and even restaurants and bars. Identifying the best places to stop is important, especially when it’s busy and you might need to book a spot.
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Consider Your Transport Options
What about how you’re going to get around? Travelling between countries in Europe, especially in the Schengen area, is pretty easy. So whether you pick one country or several, getting around is simple. Plenty of countries have great rail systems too, so even travelling internationally is a breeze. If you decide to drive, the right car is important. An SUV like the new Jaguar F Pace will give you more space to work with. You’ll be able to pack everything you need and make your camping trip more comfortable. You might even decide to tow a caravan with you.
Plan a Route
Deciding just where to go needs to be one of your first decisions too. Maybe you’re just going on a one-off trip to a single destination, but you could also plan a trip that takes you to more places. With ferries, trains, coaches, and speedy motorways, you can go just about anywhere. Perhaps you’ll go through France, into Switzerland, to Italy and then to Germany. You’re sure to find places to camp along the way. While you can go where the wind takes you, it’s better to be prepared.
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Plan Trips and Activities
Once you’ve booked your camping spot, you’ll have a base to plan activities around. That might mean a lot of time around the campsite. Gather some ash logs for the fire, go for a hike around the area, explore nature, and take pictures of the beautiful views. You might also want to go on trips further away, perhaps into the nearest town or city with your car or maybe for a walk or bike ride to explore. You don’t have to schedule everything, but it’s a good idea to get some inspiration.
There are endless options for camping across Europe. Plan your perfect trip by thinking about what you want out of the experience. Consider the landscape you want to explore, the activities you want to engage in, and the budget you have to work with. Make sure to research the area you plan to visit and familiarize yourself with the local customs and regulations. That way, you are sure to have a safe and enjoyable camping experience.
