Europe’s Most Campervan Compatible Countries Revealed

Renting a campervan on holiday is increasingly popular, with individuals seeking unique experiences along with the ability and freedom to travel within their destination countries. Often considered an affordable travel option, motorhome travel also has a growing emphasis on sustainability.

From the full-time van lifers and old-school campers to the uninitiated, knowing what destination to choose can be particularly tricky, especially when all of Europe is on your doorstep.

In light of this, we decided to calculate where in Europe is the most compatible for a campervan trip, weighing up each country on numerous criteria, including weather, wild camping laws, vehicle crime rates, tourism figures and traffic volumes.

Looking for something specific in this article? Use the links below:

• The most campervan-compatible countries
• The least campervan-compatible countries
• Countries with the most camping options
• Countries with the lowest volumes of vehicle crime
• Most temperate countries to camp in summer
• Most temperate countries to camp in winter

The most campervan-compatible countries 

We compiled a list of every European country to identify the most and least compatible countries for campervan trips. 

Our team assessed this impact by looking at average temperatures throughout the year, average rainfall days, the legalities around wild camping, diesel and gasoline prices, the number of tourist visits in the previous year, volume of campsites with motorhome facilities, vehicle crime stats and volumes of traffic. All data was weighted and indexed to create an overall compatibility score, out of 10, with Bulgaria being the most compatible country for campervans.

Bulgaria

Bulgaria is a hidden gem for travellers in Europe. With a combination of rich cultural history and varied landscapes, taking you from the Black Sea to rugged mountain ranges. 

Key attractions include the Rila and Pirin National Parks, Seven Rila Lakes and the Rhodope Mountains.

Wild camping is legal in Bulgaria, and there are over 80 registered campsites to choose from across the country. 

With temperate weather and budget-friendly fuel prices, Bulgaria is the best destination for campers this summer. 

Georgia

Georgia offers dramatic mountain ranges, unique culture, and incredible hospitality, making it perfect for adventurous vanlifers.

The breathtaking Kazbegi National Park offers views of Mount Kazbek while the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park is the perfect spot for nature lovers to explore. For wine lovers, exploring the Kakheti region is a must, with rolling countryside and vineyards. 

Georgia allows free wild camping in many areas and has dramatic, uncrowded scenery. 

Temperatures average around 18 degrees throughout the year, with highs of 29 degrees in the summer and 18 degrees in the autumn. 

Fuel prices are also low, with Gasoline setting you back 0.969 per litre and Diesel 0.988 per litre. 

Belarus

While often overlooked as a tourist destination (particularly with less than 366,700 visitors a year), Belarus is certainly a more off-the-beaten-path destination. 

Offering serene landscapes, a UNESCO-listed ancient forest which boasts European bison and the Braslav Lakes National Park - a network of lakes ideal for kayaking and scenic camping, there is a wealth of things to explore in Belarus. 

Scoring 6.94 out of 10 on our ranking, its affordable fuel prices and low vehicle crime make this destination a safe, uncrowded option with low travel costs. 

Cyprus

Though smaller and lacking in extensive campervan infrastructure, Cyprus is ideal for shorter trips, particularly if you’re travelling through Turkey. 

With average temperatures of 22.83 degrees all year round and an average temperature of 16.33 degrees in the winter, it’s the perfect destination to escape to for some winter sun. 

Key attractions include the Troodos Mountains which include charming villages, hiking trails and waterfalls, the ancient ruins along the Larnaca and Paphos coastlines and the various picturesque beaches to relax on.

Wild camping is unfortunately not prohibited and there are only 2 campsites available on the island, however, Cyprus achieved a score of 6.52 in our ranking. 

Romania

Fairy-tale landscapes, medieval towns, and the dramatic Carpathian Mountains, Romania is perfect for camper travel.

Drive along the Transfăgărășan Highway – one of the world’s most scenic roads through the Carpathians, or dive into the Dracula lore in Transylvania, there is a wealth to see and do in this Eastern European country. 

With only 22 vehicle crimes per 100,000, Romania ranked among the safest countries to travel to in your campervan. 

The least campervan-compatible countries 

So, we have revealed the countries that are the most compatible for campervan trips, but where should holiday-goers skip on their Euro tour? 

England

With restrictive wild camping laws, overcrowded spots and a high volume of rainfall days, British summer isn’t the ideal destination for camper holidays. 

Popular camper destinations (like the Lake District or Cornwall) often suffer from crowding, limited parking, and no overnight stays in many car parks.

Additionally, compared to Eastern Europe, campsites are expensive and often require booking in advance, reducing spontaneity.

Switzerland

Campsites, fuel, food, and road tolls are all very expensive, making Switzerland one of the priciest campervan destinations in Europe.

Wild camping is heavily regulated, often prohibited in national parks and alpine zones. 

Additionally, you must purchase a motorway vignette, and larger vans may face restrictions on some scenic routes.

While the alpine beauty is unmatched, it’s often better experienced by car/train and overnight stays in local lodges.

France

Surprisingly, France ranked as the third least suitable country for campervanning. 

Generally considered campervan-friendly, it ranked lower due to its high vehicle crime rate and volume of traffic. 

France did, however, rank second as the country with the most campsites, with an impressive 5,146 to choose from. 

Although aires de camping-car exist and are a great concept, wild camping is often not allowed outside of official areas. In recent years, France has also increased restrictions, including banning overnight parking, particularly along the Riviera, Atlantic coast, and near tourist towns. 

Lastly, extensive tolls on motorways and rising diesel/petrol costs increase the overall price of a campervan trip.

Countries with the most camping options

Whether you want to follow the crowd or find more remote camping options, knowing which countries have the highest concentration of campsites can help you plan your itinerary. 

Germany

With 5,451 campervan-compatible campsites, Germany tops the rankings as the country with the most camping options. 

Whether you’re exploring the Alps, the Black Forest or the coastal regions, Germany’s well-maintained road network and wide variety of campsites make it easy to navigate and find overnight accommodation.

Wild camping is generally prohibited, but under certain conditions it is possible in the states of Brandenburg, Bremen and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. In Brandenburg and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, hikers, horse riders, or canoeists can officially pitch their tent for a night in the outdoors. 

France

France is the country with the second highest number of campsites, with 5,146 situated across the country that are suitable for campervans. 

A popular destination, there are typically a lot more motorhomes on the roads, which means that people are used to them and are more accepting.

The rules and regulations for motorhome driving in France are broadly the same as when you’re driving a car. Make sure you’ve got your passport, driving licence, V5 ownership papers and insurance documents. Fluorescent jackets and warning triangles are a must in case you break down, and in fact it is illegal in France not to have them.

Italy

Home to rich landscapes, famous cuisine and lots of culture, Italy also has an impressive 3,997 campsites to choose from. 

With well equipped "agriturismi" (farm stays) and "aree di sosta" (motorhome parking areas) across the country, there is a wealth of options to choose from. 

From the Dolomites and Alps in the north to Tuscany’s rolling hills, Amalfi’s coastal roads, and Sicily’s beaches, Italy offers incredible variety within relatively short distances.

Spain 

Spain boasts a vast number of campsites, 2,064 to be exact, and "areas de autocaravanas" (motorhome areas), many of which are free or low-cost, especially in rural or inland areas.

From Pyrenees mountains to Andalusian deserts, Basque coastlines, and Mediterranean beaches, Spain is a dream for diverse, open-road adventures.

Also known for having mild winters in the south e.g. Andalusia and Murcia, mean it's a popular destination with winter vanlifers escaping colder climates.

Sweden 

Boasting its "Allemansrätten" (Right of Public Access), Sweden’s unique law allows you to camp freely (with respect) almost anywhere in nature, making it perfect for off-grid vanlife.

However, if you feel more comfortable with additional amenities, there are 1,381 campsites to choose from. 

Lakes, forests, archipelagos, and the Lapland wilderness provide breathtaking scenery with minimal crowds.

The countries with the lowest volumes of vehicle crime 

Traveling in a motorhome is generally a safe and rewarding way to explore, but it's natural for travellers to have concerns about security — especially when it comes to vehicle break-ins, theft of belongings, or parking in unfamiliar areas overnight. 

Ensuring peace of mind often depends on the destination, and encouragingly, our study has identified Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, and Montenegro as the safest countries for motorhome travel based on their exceptionally low rates of vehicle-related crime. 

This makes them particularly appealing for campervan adventurers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences without sacrificing safety. 

While common-sense precautions are always wise — such as locking doors, avoiding isolated urban areas at night, and using official campsites where possible — travellers in these Balkan nations can enjoy remarkable landscapes, warm hospitality, and a reassuring sense of security on the road.

Most temperate countries to camp in summer

While many of us chase high temperatures and guaranteed sunshine during the summer months, extreme heat isn’t actually ideal for campervan travel. Unlike air-conditioned hotels or spacious holiday homes, campervans can quickly become hot, stuffy, and uncomfortable, especially during peak heat or in humid climates. 

Sleeping, cooking, or simply relaxing inside a motorhome can become a challenge when temperatures soar — and ventilation alone often isn’t enough to offset the discomfort.

For a truly enjoyable campervan trip, the ideal climate falls between 15°C and 20°C during the day, with nighttime lows that don’t dip below 5°C. These conditions allow for comfortable sleep, and enjoyable outdoor activities without the risk of overheating or battling restless nights.

According to our research, Ireland, Wales, and Finland emerge as the most temperate countries for summer campervan adventures, offering pleasant daytime temperatures without the extremes. 

If your priority is balancing mild weather with lower rainfall, then England, Sweden, and Denmark lead the way, combining comfortable climates with fewer rainy days on average — a key factor when you're relying on outdoor living space and campsite access. Whether you're navigating coastal roads, hiking forest trails, or enjoying a lakeside evening, choosing a temperate destination can make all the difference in your campervan experience.

Most temperate countries to camp in winter

Taking a trip in your campervan during the winter months may seem like an impossibility due to the colder temperatures and shorter days typically associated with the season. 

However, not all of Europe is blanketed in snow and ice come winter — in fact, several countries offer mild, sunny climates year-round, making them perfect for off-season road trips. 

Cyprus, Malta, and Portugal top the rankings for their pleasant winter temperatures, averaging between 15–16°C during the colder months. 

These destinations not only provide a welcome escape from the freezing weather found elsewhere, but also offer quieter roads, fewer crowds at popular sites, and off-peak campsite availability. 

From the coastal drives and ancient ruins of Cyprus, to Malta’s historic harbours and scenic cliffs, and Portugal’s Algarve region with its golden beaches and charming fishing villages — winter campervanning in Southern Europe combines comfort, affordability, and natural beauty, all without the need for winter tyres or heavy-duty insulation.

How did Iceland rank?

With our rugged natural beauty and freedom to roam, Iceland is a great destination for campervan trips. Our famous Ring Road (Route 1) circles the entire island, giving you easy access to dramatic waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, black sand beaches and geothermal hot springs. 

There is an extensive list of campsites available for your trip, and low rates of vehicle crime (28.5 per 100,000) make Iceland a safe and accessible destination. 

So, whether you’re chasing the northern lights in winter or the midnight sun in summer, Iceland offers a one-of-a-kind road trip experience that’s tailor-made for campervan exploration.

Ready to sleep under the stars in the land of fire and ice?

We offer a range of affordable campervans to rent in Iceland, with comfortable sleeping arrangements for up to 4 passengers and with plenty of extra camping equipment available to add on for a comfortable night’s sleep anywhere in the Icelandic wilderness. 

Methodology 

The data was gathered from multiple sources and ranked on each factor separately to create rankings for each individual element. 

The average of all these rankings created the overall most and least campervan-compatible rankings. Countries that didn’t have all the data available for each section were removed from our final ranking.

Sources: 

• Camping laws were taken from: www.bergzeit.co.uk/journal/wild-camping-europe/ 
• Average rainfall: www.weather2travel.com
• Average temperature: www.weather2travel.com
• Gas prices: www.cargopedia.net/europe-fuel-prices 
• Number of visitors: multiple sources
• Campervan campsites: www.campercontact.com 
• Traffic - time index: https://www.numbeo.com/traffic/ 
• Vehicle crime: www.dagens.com/autos/in-these-european-countries-youre-most-likely-to-have-your-car-stolen

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