If you are planning a caravan or motorhome trip to Europe, there is a lot to consider. If you do not know where to begin or how to get started, here is a useful guide to taking your caravan or RV for a vacation in the EU.
Where Should You Go?
One of the best things about traveling in the EU is that there are no hard borders between countries, so it is super easy to visit more than one place with just one visa.
The Schengen area of Europe (the area with no borders) is made up of 26 countries, and once you have a Schengen visa, you can visit them all without stopping at passport control. This type of freedom is perfect for caravan or RV travel, as you can just drive on to wherever you want to go next!
You could plan a route that takes you all over Europe, or if you prefer spontaneity, just see where the wind blows you.
The Best Places to Take Your Campervan
Europe is full of variety, so there are plenty of places to visit that will suit everyone. If you are looking for city sights and culture, western Europe is a great option, as there are lots of major tourist cities in a relatively small geographical area (Paris, Vienna, Bruges, Berlin, for example).
If you are looking for a trip out in nature to experience the great outdoors, there are numerous options. The Alps are a great place to take a motorhome: The views are utterly breathtaking, and Alpine food is usually an interesting mix of different nationalities’ cuisines.
Here are some other great places in Europe to take your campervan:
- The Italian Lakes—try Lake Garda for fun watersports and boat rides, gorgeous views, and easy access to cities like Venice and Verona.
- Scandinavia—countries in northern Europe offer breathtaking scenery and interesting tourist sites, as well as more unusual food. These countries can be expensive vacation spots, so caravanning is a great way to save on accommodation costs.
- Slovenia—still relatively underexplored, Slovenia remains unspoiled (for now!). With mountains, lakes, caves, rivers, and a coast, it has got everything you could want.
Things to Consider
Despite the relative freedom of travel that comes from a campervan vacation in the EU, there are a few things you need to consider.
Rules and laws vary from country to country, so make sure you are aware of any speed limits and driving regulations that apply wherever you are heading.
Some countries have specific requirements for equipment you need to have with you in case of emergency—objects like a first aid kit, a warning triangle, spare bulbs for lights, and high-visibility jackets are commonly required in Europe, so make sure you are prepared before you travel.
If you are a British citizen looking to go caravanning in the EU now that Brexit has taken place, there are some additional things you need to be aware of. Here is a handy guide to caravanning in the EU post Brexit.
No matter your situation, you should always make sure you have full insurance cover for your trip. Check your policy before you leave.
Taking an RV or campervan to Europe for a vacation is a great way to explore continental Europe. There is so much to see and do, and caravanning is a fantastic way to see as much of it as possible. Be prepared and you will be set for an amazing trip!