Camping in Europe is one of the best ways to travel on a budget and stay close to nature. Instead of a hotel you'll pay $6-16 a night at a campsite, and in return you wake up by lakes, mountains and the sea. This guide tells you where to pitch a tent, what it costs and how to plan a safe summer.
βΊ Where to pitch a tent
- Official campsites: showers, toilets, a kitchen and Wi-Fi β the safest option
- Camping apps (Park4Night, Campercontact): thousands of spots on a map with reviews
- Farm camps and agritourism: quiet, often cheap, sometimes free
- Wild camping: allowed in Scandinavia (AllemansrΓ€tten), banned across most of southern Europe
Before you pitch a tent in the wild, check the country's law β in Germany, Italy and Croatia wild camping is fined.
πΆ What camping costs
- A tent pitch: $6-16 per night per person, depending on location
- A mobile home or bungalow: $35-70 a night β cheaper than a hotel
- Showers and electricity are sometimes charged separately β confirm when booking
- Many campsites fill up in summer β book ahead in July-August
π What to pack
A three-season tent, a sleeping bag with a temperature rating, an inflatable mat and a headlamp are the basic kit. Add a portable stove, a first-aid bag and a power bank. For a full first-aid list see Travel First-Aid Kit: What Medicines to Pack in 2026, and for smart packing Checked baggage guide 2026: limits, packing tips and checklist.
If your baggage allowance is tight, rent the tent and mat on site β many campsites rent gear.
π How to reach the campsite
Most European campsites are outside town, so a car adds comfort β for rental rules see Renting a Car Abroad: Complete Guide for Georgian Travellers in 2026. If you don't have a car, public transport reaches many campsites too β for tickets see Public Transport in Europe: Tickets, Validation and Fines.
π‘ Safety and tips
- Don't leave valuables or documents in the tent overnight β reception safes are often free
- Get an eSIM on arrival so maps and bookings are at hand
- Light a fire only where allowed β wildfire risk is high in summer
- To estimate your budget, see Travel Budget Planning: How to Estimate Costs Step by Step
Camping sharply cuts your accommodation cost and adds freedom to a trip β especially around the Mediterranean and the Alps. To find cheap flights before you plot your route, use the Travel365 price calendar and flight search.
Tags
