Enthusiastic campers: camping experience with hard shell roof tent

Marie and Jan from the YouTube channel travelventure decided to embark on the adventure of camping with a hard-shell roof tent, the iKamper Skycamp from Campwerk to be precise. Right from the start, they were delighted with the fact that they were kindly provided with the tent for their trip and had the opportunity to assemble it on site in Bochum. Despite this, Marie and Jan always emphasize that their opinion is honest and individual.

You can find out more about Campwerk here:

• Campwerk roof tent

You can watch the video yourself here:

Of course, you can always learn from the experiences of others for your own camping adventures. That’s why we’ve summarized them for you here:

Rooftop tents: for families, couples & solo travelers

Marie and Jan have found that rooftop tents offer the comfort of a camper at a fraction of the price and are more comfortable than conventional tents. They are a great option for traveling, whether you are traveling alone, as a family or as a couple. The choice of tent size here depends on the number of people traveling. Marie and Jan had a rooftop tent that was designed for four people, but it was personally too big for them. They recommend trying out the different models before buying.

Rooftop tents offer you these things:

• Camping experience like in a motorhome, only for less money
• Comfort & convenience surpasses conventional tents
• Recommendation: Try out different models before buying

If you go by how many fellow travelers you have, you can choose the size accordingly. You can read more about this here:

• Roof tent for 2 people
• Roof tent for 3 people
• Roof tent for 4 people
• Roof tent for 5 people

Roof tents for every car: installation & equipment

A roof tent can even be mounted on a van to create additional sleeping space. Roof tents can be fitted to almost any car. They are attached to crossbars on the car roof and are therefore independent of the vehicle. The installation of the roof tent is flexible. It can be easily removed if there is no space for it, or it can remain on the vehicle all year round.

What you should know about mounting:

• Roof tents fit on many vehicles
• Mounting on crossbars on the car roof
• Independent of the vehicle & flexible installation
• Disassembly possible where space is limited
• Can be mounted on the vehicle all year round

Cozy nights under the stars: more restful sleep

The roof tent itself is spacious and comfortable. It already has a mattress, which makes it easier for them to set up. With a fitted sheet, a few pillows and a comforter, Marie and Jan feel right at home. The sleeping bag remains ready as an additional option.

Even more comfortable: with additional mattress!

You can find all the other accessories you might need here:

• Camping accessories

Weatherproof, insect protection & peace and quiet: relaxing in the great outdoors

The two bloggers had the opportunity to test their roof tent in various weather conditions, including strong storms in Norway. Although you can feel the wind outside, they felt safe inside the tent. The orientation of the tent is important to avoid the wind blowing head-on. The roof tent performed well in terms of insect protection. Despite the mosquitoes in Sweden, they were largely spared in the tent thanks to the insect nets at the entrance and the windows.

In this way, the roof tent protects you from the weather:

• Feeling safe in the tent despite noticeable wind
• Important: Orientation of the tent to minimize wind
• Insect nets at the entrance & windows

Advantages of the roof tent: nature, comfort & views

Marie and Jan enjoy their camping experience with the roof tent to the full. They can experience the freedom and flexibility of camping in the great outdoors without having to sacrifice comfort and convenience. Camping with a roof tent has some clear advantages. The quick and easy set-up and take-down makes spontaneous trips possible, and it offers a cost-effective alternative to motorhomes. Despite the affordable price, the level of comfort when sleeping in a roof tent is high. The elevated position offers breathtaking views.

Traveling with a rooftop tent is also cost-effective, as it allows lower rates for ferries, campsites and toll roads than with a motorhome. This flexibility allows you to stay overnight in remote locations and gives you the opportunity to explore new places. The rooftop tent also encourages social contact with other travelers at the campsite and often allows free overnight stays outside the campsite (this is allowed in many Scandinavian countries!), making this type of travel particularly attractive.

That’s why you should go camping with a roof tent:

• Freedom & flexibility in harmony with comfort
• Simple assembly & disassembly enables spontaneity
• Cost savings compared to motorhomes
• High sleeping comfort despite affordable price
• Breathtaking views from an elevated position
• Social contact with other travelers is encouraged

You can find even more tips on the benefits at:

• Advantages roof tent

Challenges & considerations: Disadvantages

Nevertheless, there are some disadvantages, including minimally increased fuel consumption and wind noise when driving. The limited parking options, the restricted possibilities in extreme weather and the initial purchase costs are further points that should be taken into consideration. Nevertheless, the advantages outweigh the disadvantages, making a rooftop tent an attractive option for adventurous travelers.

You should pay attention to this:

• Minimal increase in fuel consumption
• Wind noise when driving
• Limited parking facilities
• Do not use in extreme weather
• High initial acquisition costs
• Nevertheless: advantages outweigh disadvantages

To find out how best to solve the disadvantages, you can read on here:

• Disadvantages roof tent

Rooftop tent manufacturer: the first rooftop tent!

Have you been bitten by the camping bug and would like to buy a rooftop tent? There are countless suppliers on the market and this can quickly become confusing for beginners. To help you get to grips with this, you can find out more about the different manufacturers in this overview:

• Rooftop tent manufacturer

Roof tent comparison: suitable roof tents

Given the abundance, it’s also worth taking a look at which roof tent is best for which needs. You can find out here:

• Rooftop tent comparison

Sleeping in the great outdoors: that’s wild camping!

Wild camping refers to camping or spending the night in the wild outside of campgrounds or private property. It means staying overnight in a place that is not specifically set up for camping purposes. Wild camping involves finding a suitable place in nature, such as a remote forest, field or mountain, to pitch your tent and spend the night.

Close to nature & freedom to choose sleeping place

Wild camping offers a more intense nature experience and greater freedom in terms of site selection and activities compared to camping at organized campgrounds. It allows campers to choose their own campsite according to personal preferences and the needs of the trip. This opens the possibility of discovering remote places and experiencing new adventures in nature.

Rest & relaxation: recharge energy reserves

Wild camping allows you to be away from the crowded tourist areas and enjoy the beauty of nature in a secluded environment. It provides an escape from stressful everyday life and offers the opportunity to relax and recover from physical and mental stress. Spending time in nature, away from urban noise and distractions, creates space for inner peace and recharging energy reserves. It helps that you experience the wild camping, the animal and plant world up close.

Self-sufficiency, but inexpensive

When wild camping, people are often on their own and must provide their own equipment, food, and preparation. This fosters a sense of self-reliance and self-sufficiency as people learn to navigate the outdoors and be independent. Another advantage of wild camping is that it is a cost-effective alternative, as there are often no overnight fees. This allows travelers on a limited budget to experience and enjoy nature without the high cost of campgrounds.

That’s what wild camping is all about!

Quickly in the overview – that’s what’s special about wild camping:

• Camping in the great outdoors, away from campgrounds & private grounds.
• Freedom to choose where to sleep, such as remote forests, fields or mountain
• Intensive experience of nature & allows to discover remote places
• Rest, relaxation & recreation away from crowded tourist areas
• Promotes self-reliance, self-sufficiency & self-reliance in nature.
• Cost-effective alternative, as there are no overnight charges

Alternative to camping: Wild camping allowed!

When wild camping, it is important to note that in many countries and regions legal regulations apply or wild camping may even be completely prohibited. These rules are in place to protect nature, avoid danger, and prevent conflicts with landowners. To avoid fines or other legal consequences, you should inform yourself about the respective laws and regulations before wild camping.

Wild Camping in Germany: Allowed or forbidden?

In Germany, the following regulations apply:

In principle, wild camping is not allowed. However, briefly entering natural areas for recreation is allowed as long as you do not pitch a tent or give the impression of “living” there. It is allowed to sleep under the open sky, even with a tarp (also called a tarp). Except in Berlin, you are not allowed to do that. In Hesse and Schleswig-Holstein you are also not allowed to leave paths at night. It is also forbidden to camp in nature reserves, national parks or on private property without the owner’s consent.

When traveling by car, you are allowed to stop at the side of the road to “restore your fitness to drive.” This means you are allowed to rest briefly, but then you should continue driving. Again, you are not allowed to unpack your camping table and appear to be “living”. You should follow these rules to protect nature and avoid negative impact on the environment.

Alternative: trekking places in the open nature

However, there are also special trekking sites, which are smaller pitches for campers in the wild. Spending the night there is allowed. Usually these offer space for up to four tents, have a few simple seats and sparse sanitary facilities. However, you get closer to nature than in a conventional campsite. Surrounded by nature and the sounds of the forest, you can slowly drift off to sleep or cook under the open sky – with the cooking tips you are suitably prepared.

In Germany, wild camping is generally prohibited, but brief entry into natural areas for recreation is permitted. As an alternative, there are trekking sites that allow you to spend the night in the great outdoors and offer a more intense experience of nature.

Where to go? Travel tips!

In some countries, wild camping is even allowed, although there are certain rules and restrictions. It is of great importance to check the current information and regulations locally to make sure that you do not violate any laws or regulations. This article is for general information only and does not constitute binding legal advice.

Wild camping allowed: Estonia, Lithuania & Latvia

In these countries, wild camping is allowed as long as no noise is caused and no damage is done to nature. It is not allowed to camp in nature reserves and time and regional restrictions may apply. So please inform yourself thoroughly about the specific region you want to camp in.

Two days in one place: Finland, Sweden & Norway

Wild camping is also generally allowed in the Scandinavian countries of Sweden and Norway, as long as you stay away from agricultural land. You are expected to take your trash with you, and camping is usually allowed for a maximum of two days in one place.

You can find more vacation tips for the two countries here:

• Camping in Sweden
• Camping in Norway

Wild camping far from private land: Scotland

Wild camping is also allowed in Scotland as long as no pollution is left behind and no remains of tents and fires are left behind. However, there are regional restrictions and seasonal wild camping may not be allowed in some areas. Stick to the limit of three days in one place and camp only with a small group of people. In addition, stay away from farms, pastures, fields, private property and homes.

Preparation: Gather info & pack equipment beforehand

Before you set out on your wild camping adventure, it’s important to be aware of the legal requirements and regulations in your destination to avoid fines and legal consequences. Always think about your safety, learn about potential hazards and take a first aid kit and a communication device, such as a cell phone. Create an emergency plan and share your travel plans with someone for assistance if needed.

Wild camping holds the unique opportunity to experience nature intensively and enjoy greater freedom in site selection and activities. Respect nature, be responsible and don’t leave trash behind. By preparing yourself, respecting the environment and paying attention to safety, you can have an unforgettable adventure in the great outdoors while ensuring that future campers can enjoy the beauty of nature.

You should pay attention to this before you set out:

• Find out about legal requirements & regulations
• Think about your safety & inform yourself about dangers
• First aid kit & care for functioning communication
• Create a contingency plan & share your travel plans with someone
• Respect nature & be responsible (no trash)

Equipment: Exciting days & cold nights

When you’re getting ready to go wild camping, keep these things in mind.

Maps or navigation aids and a headlamp are important so you can find your way without reception or light. A power bank is also helpful, as there are no outlets outside and you should keep your phone functional for emergencies. Remember to bring trash bags to make sure you don’t leave any trash or dirt in the environment. Also, warm clothing is crucial as it can get cold quickly at night and in bad weather.

In addition to these essential items, you should also have standard camping gear, such as sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and cooking utensils. A suitable sleeping accommodation is also important, especially if you want to park anywhere but still want comfort. In this case, as before, it makes sense to take a roof tent. The roof tent you can quickly and easily unfold anywhere you want to camp and yet it takes up less space on the roof of your car than a caravan.

You can get help with setting up here: Sleeping & Living while camping!

With this packing list you are suitably prepared:

• Map or navigation aid
• Forehead or flashlight
• Mobile Phone & Powerbank
• Garbage bags
• Warm & weatherproof clothing
• Sleeping bags, camping mats & cooking utensils

If you want to read about it in more detail, you can read on here: Camping Packing List.

Starry skies, cold nights and northern lights

You want to experience the natural spectacles of the country in the far north of Europe? The best way to do that is a camping vacation. You can swim in glassy glacial lakes, marvel at ancient forests and rocks, and maybe even see the northern lights. Camping is a big word for many people. And in any case, this vacation should be well planned. So you can plan or if you just want to get a taste of camping, you will find many great tips for equipment, super beautiful routes and places.

Roof tent recommendation: Camper rated

Want an expert opinion on the roof tent? Here you can find the video of a passionate camper who has discovered the advantages of a roof tent for himself and has many great tips for traveling with a roof tent in store. More tips for campers in Norway can be found here (external): Camping Norway.

Freedom by car: roof tent camping

You have everything planned for the perfect camping vacation, only the accommodation is missing? How about a roof tent? Roof tents are the new way to camp, because they combine all the advantages of classic tents and caravans. They are just as space-saving as classic tents and since they can be mounted on any car roof, you also have more storage space in the car.

Due to the thoughtful construction of many roof tents, they hold bombproof on the roof even in difficult terrain. So you won’t get hit by flying tarps and tent poles in the car.

Of course, good roof tents are also absolutely rainproof. In bad weather, the dismantling is also super easy. While you do not have to fold so wet and dirty tent tarpaulins, most models for the car roof can be easily folded. This keeps you clean and dry!

Of course, you’ll notice the extra weight on the roof when driving, but it’s much lighter and more terrain resistant than a camper, and you won’t have to awkwardly squeeze the tent into the trunk.

• Roof tent for the roof of the car
• Firm grip on difficult terrain
• Easy dismantling
• BUT: Weight on the car roof is noticeable
• FOR: more space in the car

Never heard of a roof tent?

• Tips for buying roof tent

Camping route: mountain, hiking & camping

Once you have familiarized yourself with your roof tent, you are ready to go! A possible route would be from Dovrefjell over the picturesque Geiranger to the breathtaking Jotunheimen.

Experiences hiking: Fishing, Starry Sky & Mountains

The perfect way to prepare for the night after a hike through the overgrown mountainsides is to pitch your tent. You are allowed to do this anywhere in Norway as long as you don’t damage the existing nature. When you have put all the pegs into the soft mossy ground, it is time for a tasty meal from the gas stove. For this it is worth trying fishing in the crystal clear rivers.

With a full stomach, you can then spend the night under the clear starry sky. In the Norwegian wilderness you have no light pollution like in big cities, so you can look at the stars through the skylight of your tent.

Continue through romantic villages of wooden huts, past rushing waterfalls, over slippery rocks, through the stream and up to the top of the mountains to see you meandering through Jotunheimen rivers. Jotunheimen has the highest mountains in Norway and therefore many famous hiking trails.

Quick overview:

• Camping: allowed everywhere in Norway, as long as nature is not damaged
• Gas stove for delicious meal & fishing in crystal clear rivers
• Night under clear starry sky without light pollution
• Continue through romantic villages & rushing waterfalls
• Over slippery stones, through stream & on top of mountains
• Jotunheimen: Highest mountains in Norway & famous hiking trails

Here you can find the route again on the map:

Road trip through Norway: tips, route & places

This vacation show you the two young men in the video and give besides the beautiful nature shots helpful tips about camping in Norway and the route. They are both experienced campers, as they have already set out several times to explore a part of Norway.

Top 10 Places: Senja, Lofoten & Co.

You don’t want to plan a fixed route at all, but rather get to know the top 10 places in Norway?

Then you can check out the list of places below:

Varangerhalvøya – Senja – Lofoten

We start high in the north with Varangerhalvøya, a region with fjord and unique glacier rocks. Also far north is Senja, an island popular for hiking vacations in the high mountains above the sea. If you’re lucky, you can spot whales in the water there. Also by the sea is the Lofoten archipelago, where you can marvel at brilliant northern lights. Or you can walk across the small bridges that connect the inhabited islands. There is also a nice place for a snack in the lovely fishing villages.

This is how picturesque the Lofoten Islands look:

Helgeland – Femundsmarka National Park

Have you ever seen black rocks? You can find them in the Helgeland region a bit further south. Because of its enchanting landscape, it used to play a role in sagas and fairy tales. Nowadays it is a popular place for cycling or kayaking. A little further south is Femundsmarka National Park, a popular destination for camping vacations by the lake. In this there are even reindeer to marvel at.

Cute reindeer:

Loenvatnet – Nærøyfjorden – Valdres

Another insider tip for swimming in crystal clear glacier water is Lake Loenvatnet. Further south, you can continue your tour with Nærøyfjorden. This is a classic fjord on sunlit mountainsides, with a ferry as its attraction. About three hours away to the east, you’ll find the Valdres area. This is worth it for a breathtaking view of a landscape of forested valleys and sparkling lakes.

This is what awaits you in Valdres:

Hardanger – Jettegrytene i Nissedal

Also famous for its unique nature is the Hardanger region. Since a lot of fruit is grown here, springtime conjures up famous fields of flowers on the landscape. In the far south, it’s time for another insider tip: Jettegrytene i Nissedal. This one is worth seeing for the specially shaped rocks in the dried riverbed.

This is the picturesque landscape at Jettegrytene i Nissedal:

All places in the overview

Here you can see all the places again on the map:

• Senja
• Varangerhalvøya
• Femundsmarka
• Loenvatnet
• Valdres
• Hardanger
• Helgeland
• Lofoten
• Nærøyfjorden
• Jettegrytene i Nissedal

Here is a small example, for your adventure in Norway, from Mo i Rana in the Helgeland region via the municipality of Røros in Femundsmarka National Park to Lake Loenvatnet.

Norway from above: icy world by the sea

Pictures say more than 1,000 words! The most beautiful 10 spots you get here in a video. Recorded during a 3-year trip. On this trip, a photographer traveled through Norway and has therefore compiled everything important in a video. You can watch this video here.

Insider tip: Vassfaret National Park

Here’s another top favorite that didn’t appear on the list before: Vassfaret National Park. This one offers swimming lakes with mountain panorama, high pine forests and fascinating views. It is ideal for wild camping in the great outdoors. How such a vacation could look like and what you can expect between tent, warming campfire and tough fog, you can see in this video.

More camping tips for Norway?

Well, curious or is camping not for you? Here you can find more detailed articles about the perfect vacation in Norway or camping ideas for your unforgettable trip.

• Norway vacation
• Camping Norway (external)

Norway: Cities, fjords and northern lights

Norway is a beautiful Scandinavian country that has a lot to offer. Besides the breathtaking nature between fjords, forests, mountains and the sea, you can marvel at the northern lights in winter. You are not the type for outdoor activities? No problem, because in Norway you will find beautiful cities and villages like Oslo, Bergen and Flåm that are a must-see. Oslo and Bergen are great for your next shopping trip and museums will teach you about the country’s culture. Experience the simple Scandinavian flair and explore Norway with us!

Listen along with Zoe:

Norway on the map: Scandinavia

Here you can see Norway on the map. The country borders Sweden and is located in the north of Europe, which can be commonly called Scandinavia.

Getting there: What you should know before your vacation

Before you travel to Norway, there are a few things you should know. It is important to know that Norway has kept the Norwegian Krone (NOK) as currency. So you will need to change your currency before you can relax on holiday. Although credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, in the smaller, more rural provinces you should always carry some cash for emergencies.

Climate: From temperate to polar climate

Furthermore, you should know about the weather in Norway. The country has a temperate climate in many regions that can be visited all year round. However, many areas should rather be visited in summer, as winter is very dark and gloomy and light rarely comes through.

• West: lake climate; high precipitation rate, cool summers and mild winters
• East: dry climate; cold winters, warmer summers
• North: Polar climate; No sun in winter

Here you will find a current overview of the weather in Norway:

Facts: What else you should know about the country

• In Norway there is right-hand traffic
• Norway has a very high cost of living
• There is a very well developed internet network in Norway
• Alcohol may only be purchased from 18, spirits from 20

Oslo: City trip to the capital

Norway’s capital Oslo is located on the south coast of the country and is characterized by culture and green spaces. Due to a variety of museums, the city is always worth a trip, both in good and bad weather. In the city centre you will find historical buildings and a super shopping mile that invites you to stroll around. The numerous restaurants invite you to try freshly caught fish and on the peninsula bordering the city you can even find real Viking ships from the 9th century!

Map: Explore Oslo in one day

Oslo is a great city for the ultimate city break! To take in every sight on your trip, we’ve laid out our favorite route across the city so you don’t waste time planning. The route includes a mix of shopping, dining and sightseeing and takes you on a historical journey through the beautiful city.

Here you find again briefly the intermediate stops of the route:

• Start: Akershus Fortress
• Oslo Opera House
• Shopping mile
• Royal Oslo Castle
• Vigelandsanlegget Sculpture Park
• Norsk Folkenmuseum
• Vikingskipshuset Museum

Check out our route through the city on this map!

Tour: View of the shopping mile in Oslo

Do you love fashion and bring a piece of clothing from every city as a souvenir? Then Oslo will make your shopping heart beat faster. Besides local brands and fast fashion brands like Zara and H&M, you’ll also find luxury brands like Acne Studios and Louis Vuitton. There’s something for every fashion lover!

Luxury brands are right up your street? Then find out about your favourite brand and learn all about the latest brands in our XXL brand guide.

Bergen: holiday resort and metropolis

Bergen is the second largest city in Norway and just as worth seeing as Oslo. What is special about Bergen? The city is located in a valley, surrounded by seven mountains, whose peaks offer a beautiful view over the city. Here you can go hiking or skiing. Sport is not your thing? No problem, the funicular Fløibanen takes you to the viewing plateau of Fløyen.

Bergen is also the gateway to Norway’s largest and most famous fjords, which are a real must-see. As well as stunning nature, Bergen boasts beautiful, colourful wooden houses and winding streets that are home to a strong music scene and many famous composers such as Edvard Hagerup Grieg.

Map from fjord to fjord

First of all – a fjord is an arm of the sea that reaches far into the country. The Hardangerfjord, the Trolltunga and the Sognefjord are the three largest fjords in Norway. Bergen lies right in between them, making it the perfect starting point for a tour through the Norwegian wilderness, towards the fjords. Our insider tip: The fjord village Flåm is located northeast above Bergen and offers a wonderful idyllic and homely atmosphere. If you have a lot of time, you can take the Flåm Railway, which is considered one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world.

Stops along the way:

• Start: Bergen
• Hardangerfjord
• Trolltungafjord
• Sognefjord

This route takes you right past the biggest fjords in Norway!

360° view over the Sognefjord

This breathtaking fjord is not only the largest in Norway, it is also the longest and deepest fjord in Europe. Other, smaller side arms lead away from it, which in turn flow into smaller fjords.

Lofoten: Island hopping in Norway

The Lofoten Islands offer natural spectacles at their best. During the long winter months you can marvel at the fascinating northern lights. In summer, on the other hand, it never gets dark, not even at night! Especially outdoor fans will love these islands, as the unique landscape between mountains, small villages and the sea invites you to explore and hike. Due to the relatively mild climate, despite the northern location, the Lofoten Islands are considered a year-round destination, as you can experience the islands in winter as well as in summer in a very special way.

Map: The Lofoten Islands in the North of Norway

The Lofoten Islands are part of the large archipelago in northern Norway and comprise the western section of the archipelago. The individual islands are connected by bridges, which make it easy to explore the entire region. Despite the many bridges, the region can only be approached by water or by air. For those who want to make the journey a destination, take the famous Hurtigruten route along Norway’s Atlantic coast by ship, which offers spectacular views of Norway’s landscape.

Reine: Idyllic village on the Lofoten Islands

Reine is a small fishing village on the east side of the Lofoten Islands. Besides the typical Norwegian red wooden houses, you can experience all kinds of things here. Especially photographers will get their money’s worth here in the early morning hours, when the rising sun bathes the mountains and the water in a magical light. Hikers can fulfil themselves on the Reineberg, from the top of which you have a breathtaking view over the village and the sea. You are not a professional mountain climber? No problem, on the mountain leads the so-called Sherpa stairs, which facilitate the ascent.

Looking for a holiday? Two more travel countries

You still haven’t had enough after your Norway trip? Here are two more countries that are great for your next holiday besides Norway. Scandinavia, Köttbullar, wellness and co., your heart will definitely go out here!

Sweden

Larger than Germany, much less populated and full of untouched forests, lakes and rivers: That is Sweden. Its pristine nature and the tranquility of the country allow visitors to step out of the hustle and bustle of everyday life straight into a state of absolute calm. Discover Sweden’s wonderful nature!

• Holiday in Sweden