Camping in Germany

Before we get to our recommendations, here are a few facts and figures about camping!

According to figures from the Federal Statistical Office, camping tourism is an essential part of the German tourism industry. The camping industry counted a total of 36 million overnight stays last year!

36 million overnight stays (campsites)

In fact, you’ll find over 3,000 open campsites in this country, with around 223,600 pitches on offer. Bavaria has the most campsites, in beautiful places like the Hopfensee, followed by Lower Saxony and its North Sea and Baden-Württemberg, for example in the Black Forest. In terms of pitches, however, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, with about 26,000 offered pitches (besides Bavaria and Lower Saxony).

According to a survey, just under 40 per cent of German camping holidaymakers spent their main holiday in this country in 2019.

• Over 3,000 campsites in Germany
• Over 220,000 parking spaces on offer
• Most campsites: Bavaria, Lower Saxony and Baden-Württemberg
• 40% of campers prefer to stay in Germany
• Total 36 million overnight stays

Reading tips for campers

Roof tent, camping accessories, sleeping, living and the best campsites. Start your next camping holiday with our tips. Here are a few recommendations:

• Camping XXL: Guide
• Camping accessories XXL: List
• Living & Sleeping XXL: Recommendations
• Camping at the Baltic Sea
• Camping at the North Sea
• Camping in Southern Germany
• Camping in NRW
• Campsites

Online Shop Recommendations: List

Are you looking for your next adventure and already planning your camping holiday? You can expect pure relaxation and recreation, but also an eventful time in the idyllic nature. To make this trip one of the most unforgettable times of your life, it is advisable to be optimally equipped.

The right equipment and important accessories are the A&O when camping.

Here you will find the best online shops for camping equipment, so that as a passionate camper you are not only well informed about the best tent variants, but also about camping furniture, household utensils, sanitary, electrical, technology and outdoor tips.

From tent / roof tent / caravan or motorhome…

… to dishes, head pot and sleeping bag. Here you will find the best online shops for campers.

Campwerk: Roof tents and equipment

The online shop to go to when it comes to the latest camping equipment, necessary products, accessories and helpful tips is definitely Campwerk. From basic equipment to the latest rooftop and trailer tents, the camping supplier has a range of products for passionate campers and the whole family. How do I get the most comfort? What is best for beginners? And how do I get as much space as possible when camping? CAMPWERK answers these questions and has the right products for you to make your trip as adventurous, relaxing and above all unique as possible.

Campwerk guarantees you the best possible mobility and above all quality. Without much effort, a large tent with floor, windows, kitchen and all the trimmings, a car roof tent or a folding caravan is set up and offers a comfortable and relaxing place to sleep for the night. All this with top equipment and plenty of accessories at unrivalled low prices! CAMPWERK has everything you need for a perfect trip, so what are you waiting for?

• Large selection of camping accessories
• Easy handling of the products
• Construction fun
• Comfortable tents for all weather conditions
• Low cost prices

Here you come to the shop: Roof tent from Campwerk.

Here you will find roof tent models like:

“Economy” trailer tent

For example, the “Economy” trailer tent is ideal for beginners and family holidays. On a floor space of nine square meters, a comfortable, floppy king size bed awaits you! If that’s not enough, the whole thing can be extended to up to 19 square metres with an add-on tent. The trailer tent is a small space miracle and offers an enormous amount of space, making it particularly suitable for a trip with the whole family.

IKamper roof tent

Campingshop-24: Allround bargains

The closest online retailer is Campingshop-24, where you can find everything about camping, outdoor accessories, household, sanitary and more. It couldn’t be easier and more convenient! From an extensive range of furniture, sleeping bags, mattresses and camping tent articles around the caravan or motorhome, Campingshop-24 offers everything a camper’s heart desires.browse through the Campingshop-24 and use the rich offer to find the right equipment for your holiday!

• Extensive assortment
• Attractive prices
• Innovations on the subject of camping equipment
• Unbeatable offers in the SALE

Reading Tip! Vacation with animals

Camping Outdoorshop: Tents & Furniture

In this online shop you will find everything you need for an eventful and relaxing camping holiday! From cheap camping tents to large luxury family tents, camping accessories and furniture as well as equipment for adventurous leisure activities. With over 10 years of experience, this shop guarantees a comprehensive range of camping equipment. Whether you are going camping for the first time or are already a passionate camper, every camping fan will find what they are looking for here!

• Assortment with over 6,000 articles
• Top brands
• Quality and reliability
• Equipment for any weather

CampingWagner: Accessories and equipment

Camping Wagner is an indispensable all-rounder when it comes to camping accessories! The right camping equipment is the most important thing of the whole holiday. Here you will find a comprehensive range of camping accessories that will make your camping holiday an unforgettable experience. Specialising in furniture, electrical equipment, spare parts, vehicle technology, catering, sanitation and more, the online supplier ensures that there is something for everyone!

• Over 31,000 articles
• Cheap and qualitative products
• Wide range of accessories and furniture
• Free shipping from 50.00 Euro

Campz Outdoor Shop: 40,000 gadgets

Campz is the largest online outdoor shop in Europe. With around 40,000 items from outdoor clothing to camping equipment, you’ll find everything you need for a successful camping holiday! Browse through the shop all week long from the comfort of your own home and find the right equipment for your next camping trip. The focus is on high-quality top brands at unbeatable prices. Shopping is definitely fun!

• Free shipping from 49.00 Euro
• Large selection with 40,000 articles
• Around 500 High quality Brands
• Cheap products at SALE

Movera: Camping and technology

The online shop Movera has specialized in mobile leisure. Here you will find everything in the area of camping and outdoor accessories and technology. The site includes a wide range of spare parts for motorhomes, caravans and campers and offers numerous suggestions and tips to make your holiday as relaxing and adventurous as possible. When camping, you are usually not only in the tent or caravan, but also outside in the area in front of it. This shop has a wide range of awnings, canopies and outdoor tents so that you can stay here comfortably and be protected from the sun and wind.

• Product diversity
• Technology oriented company
• Fast shipping (free shipping from 50.00 Euro)
• Top advice
• Secure purchase and payment
• Dealer network

Camping and leisure Berger

In this online shop you will find everything about camping, outdoor and leisure as well as a wide range of accessories and equipment. With individual advice, you can choose the right equipment for you and your next camping holiday. The products have all been extensively tested and rated by other customers, so you always know what you’re getting yourself into.

Camping Kuhn is the partner company of Fritz Berger GmbH. The online shop is the largest specialist in the field of camping and leisure supplies and expands the Berger Shop with numerous offers. From tents, outdoor accessories, household utensils, bicycles and electronics, you can get a huge selection of everything you need for camping!

• Over 15,000 articles
• 60 years of camping competence
• Comfortable equipment
• Individual advice
• Only 2,95 Euro shipping costs

Campstuff: Equipment, Tents & Awnings

Camping is becoming more and more popular with young and old and therefore requires the right equipment! This online shop has also taken this to heart and offers everything that passionate campers need for a successful, relaxing holiday. From extensive equipment, tents and awnings for motorhomes, to suitable camping accessories for every weather condition – in this online shop there is something for every taste and every budget.

• Shipping from 3,95 Euro
• Technical accessories and spare parts
• Equipment for every life and weather situation
• Extensive consultation

Campingplus: Trekking tents up to TV and Solar

This online shop is also a specialist retailer for camping, caravan and leisure accessories. Here you will find everything you need for your next camping holiday. From tent pegs, trekking tents and camping gear to TVs and solar panels, Campingplus offers a wide range of products from various manufacturers – all at ultra low prices.

• Fast shipping
• Competent advice
• Favourable prices
• Constantly changing special offers
• Assembly service
• Free returns service
• Huge assortment with more than 18,000 articles

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)

Planning a summer vacation? Try camping!

You are a camping beginner and do not know yet what to look for when camping?

That’s no problem! We have met an experienced camping expert (from Campwerk) for you. She can tell you directly from practice what you should pay attention to when camping. It’s about how to find the right campsite, about living, cooking and sleeping on the campsite – even with a dog – and is it actually allowed to go wild camping in Germany?

First, let’s take a look at the things that make camping so special.

Close to nature, affordable & flexible: 10 questions & answers

FIV: You sell roof tents and camping accessories. You’ve been intensively involved with camping for years. What makes camping so special and why should I go camping in Germany?

Campwerk: The advantage of camping is the direct connection to nature, the fresh air, the sounds of nature and the beauty of the surroundings. Germany offers an impressive variety of landscapes for camping, from picturesque mountains to idyllic lakes and lush forests. So you can escape the stress of everyday life and relax while camping.

Besides being close to nature, camping is also a super easy way to save money! Camping is often cheaper than other accommodation options because you usually bring your own sleeping space and meals. Because of this, you are also independent of restaurants and services, as you can cook your own meals. Additionally, with many accommodation options camping gives you the flexibility to travel further.

Depending on your needs, you can choose between different types of accommodation such as tents, roof tents, caravans or motor homes. You can stay at campsites near nature reserves, hiking trails, lakes or beaches. You can explore these with a variety of outdoor activities, such as a bike or boat tour. You don’t have to do it alone, though, because the camper community is full of nice people you can meet at a campsite.

Quickly summarized for you – this is why you should definitely go camping:

• Relaxation & rest, close to nature – all day long
• Freedom & flexibility – travel wherever you want
• A variety of sleeping options – but all close to nature
• Save costs compared to the package vacation
• Outdoor activities in the fresh air
• Community spirit at the campsite

So cozy it can be with friends camping, with campfire and sunset.

Wild camping, dog & Co.? Watch out for these things

FIV: What should I look for when choosing a campsite in Germany?

Campwerk: Before you choose a campsite in Germany, you should consider what you need in the area. In Germany there are many mountains, lakes, forests or coast. You can also look for sights or cities you want to see.

Then research a campsite nearby! Check the website of interesting campsites and also pay attention to things like the pitch size, compare the prices of different campsites and watch out for extra costs. It is always a good idea to read the reviews of other campers. There are also suitable portals for this.

Where to? Choice between mountains, lake or rather sea

FIV: Which are the best campsites in Germany and what makes them particularly attractive?

Campwerk: As mentioned before, you’ll usually find the most popular campgrounds near lakes, the ocean, or major mountains for hiking.

One of the most popular places is Wulfener Hals Camping and Holiday Park on the Baltic Sea island of Fehmarn. Many campers go there every year because they can camp directly on the sandy beaches of the Baltic Sea. Another tip directly on the water is the campsite Strandcamping Waging am See in Bavaria. This campsite in southern Germany is located directly on Lake Waging. For mountain lovers, the Campingpark Hopfensee offers a great mountain panorama for hiking and a view of the Hopfensee.

Here you can find more about the beautiful places where these campsites are located

• Camping and vacation park Wulfener Hals on Fehmarn – for sea fans
• Camping Strandcamping Waging am See in Bavaria – Fun at the lake
• Campingpark Hopfensee – at the Hopfensee, in the middle of the mountains

Pedal boating at the lake? Then look for a campsite near a lake.

Sheep in the wild: Is wild camping allowed?

FIV: Let’s imagine I don’t want to stay at the campsite. Am I allowed to go wild camping in Germany and stay overnight in the wild?

Campwerk: In Germany, wild camping is generally not allowed unless it is in designated areas or special exemptions. This means that you are not allowed to spend the night outside of approved campsites. However, you are allowed to stand in the parking lot for a few hours with your camping vehicle such as a roof tent, caravan or camper van to restore your driving ability. You may rest briefly while doing so, but you should not appear to be camping there. The camping chairs must remain in the car!

Quick overview:

• Wild camping not allowed in Germany in principle
• Permitted: in designated areas or with exemptions.
• Overnight stay outside approved campsites not allowed
• Allowed: to stand in parking lot for a few hours to restore driving ability
• During this time: rest, but do not camp (leave furniture in the car).

Camping with the whole family: take the dog

FIV: If I want to take my beloved pet with me, can I go camping with the dog in Germany?

Campwerk: Yes, you can! However, you should find out in advance about the campground’s rules regarding dogs. Look for restrictions on breed and size and how many dogs you can bring. Before you leave, your dog should have received all necessary vaccinations and health checks. When vacationing with animals, you should always pay attention to order and cleanliness, keep the dog on a leash and make sure you have enough fresh water for the dog – especially when it’s warm!

These are the five steps you should follow if you want to go camping with your dog:

1. Find out about campsite rules for dogs
2. Watch out for breed, size & number restrictions
3. Attention. Do not forget vaccinations & health checks
4. Keep dog leashed & tidy at campsite
5. Pay special attention to fresh water (especially in summer)

The whole family together – go on vacation with the dog too!

Everyday life at the campsite: Between comfort & nature

FIV: Camping is all about experiencing nature to the fullest. How can I get particularly close to nature even as a camping beginner in Germany?

Campwerk: In the surroundings of your campsite you usually get in touch with nature. At the gates of the campsite you can enjoy the silence of nature, observe native species of animals and experience the magic of sunrise and sunset. Especially nice is always a bike ride in the area. Or you can find another activity to experience nature.

Please always be respectful of nature and leave no trace.

Charge cell phone? Connect refrigerator?

FIV: But I don’t want to do without all the comforts of camping. What do I have to look out for in terms of electricity connections at campsites in Germany?

Campwerk: Don’t worry, most campsites have power outlets. So you can power all your electrical appliances such as refrigerators, lights, chargers for cell phones or other electronic devices.

FIV: Can I just use them like that?

Campwerk: Unfortunately, most campgrounds want an additional fee for the use of electricity. Therefore, you should check in advance whether the campsite of your choice has electricity connections and what costs are associated with them. You can also combine this with research on other additional costs.

Cooking without electricity: gas stove & campfire in the wilderness

FIV: Electricity is all well and good, but would like to cook outdoors for the real camping experience. What is the best way to do that?

Campwerk: When camping, there’s nothing better than cooking outdoors and enjoying the smell of grilled food. Recipes and cooking tips while camping are also something you can often share with your new friends at the campsite. Cooking without electricity adds a special (taste) touch to your adventure. And it’s also very convenient if you’ve caught a campsite without electricity. For cooking without electricity, you can invest in a portable camping stove that’s lightweight, compact and reliable. Or you can just light a campfire.

FIV: Can I just start a fire like that?

Campwerk: No, because you have to pay attention to the regulations. In Germany, you are only allowed to make a campfire where it is expressly permitted, otherwise it is forbidden. This means that if you find a sign at a fireplace that allows you to make a campfire, you can cook with it in a relaxed manner. However, you are not allowed to just sit down at the nearest lake and make a fire. To make your fire anyway, try to ask your campsite owner for permission or you will unfortunately have to do without the fire.

Quick check – here’s what you need to keep in mind for bonfires:

• Only if expressly permitted (otherwise prohibited)
• Not just allowed in the wild (lake, forest, etc.)
• Search for fireplace or ask at the campsite

After the meal: sanitary facilities at the campsite

FIV: What should campers look for in the sanitary facilities (toilet, shower & Co.) at the campsite in Germany?

Campwerk: Cleanliness and hygiene are very important. You don’t want to get sick on vacation. Make sure that the sanitary facilities at the campsite are regularly cleaned and well maintained. You should also check before your trip that all the sanitary facilities you need are available at the campsite. It can also help if you look at photos beforehand to check if shower cabins and such offer you enough privacy. As mentioned before, researching beforehand about your campsite is very important!

Restful sleep in the middle of nature: this is how it works!

FIV: After we’ve showered, it’s time for bed. What tips do you have for a good night’s sleep at the campsite?

Campwerk: So that you can still experience many adventures the next day, you should also pay attention to good and comfortable sleep. For this, you should first choose a flat and quiet campsite or pitch, so that you do not lie crooked. A sleeping pad, mattress or camp bed will ensure that you lie softer. In addition, a high-quality sleeping bag and you do not freeze at night. Hopefully, you can then count sheep well.

FIV: How thick should a comfortable mattress be?

Campwerk: Of course, everyone is different. Some like to sleep harder and others prefer a soft bed. However, if you want to sleep like on a normal bed, then your sleeping surface should be at least 10 cm thick – 12 cm is even better!

FIV: Then I will definitely make sure to pack a mattress with more than 10 cm on my next camping trip. Unfortunately, that brings us to the end. Many thanks to our expert from Campwerk for the detailed interview!

Roof tents & camping accessories? Get to know Campwek!

Would you like to get to know Campwerk a little better? Then you can find out more about the camping experts here:

• Campwerk roof tents

You will also find links to Campwerk’s social media and the store where you can assemble your first camping equipment:

• Campwerk Website
• Campwerk Shop
• Campwerk Blog
• Campwerk YouTube
• Campwerk Facebook
• Campwerk Instagram
• Camp plant TikTok

More camping! Cooking in the fire, roof tent & more insider tips

You are now in camping fever and want to learn more about the exciting vacation opportunity? Camping means the smell of the campfire, the rustle of the canvas and walks under the stars. Whether you’re after comfort or adventure, camping promises bliss to everyone. The diversity of this form of travel and the possibility to explore many places on a small budget excites more and more people. Learn all about the latest gadgets for comfortable living and enjoyable cooking under the open sky here.

Dive into the fascinating world of camping and get inspired!

Discover the perfect campsite, travel to exciting destinations and get insider tips:

• Camping
• Camping with roof tent

Breathtaking view – camping in the mountains:

Region in Berlin: Camping sites in the big city of Germany

So close, yet so far away from the hustle and bustle and the crowds: Berlin is much more than just downtown, as these campsites prove. Those who know the capital of Germany know that there are countless tourist attractions. Spreefahrten and the classic city tour are now familiar to many who have been there and fallen in love with the metropolis. To bring a little variety into your next Berlin vacation, we recommend a camping trip in Berlin. If you just want to relax and let your soul dangle and explore a bit of Berlin, you are exactly right on the campsites. There are opportunities to rent bikes and enjoy tours along the Spree River and Havels Ufer. If you like swimming, you can go swimming at the Nieder-Neuendorfer See, in the Tegeler See or in the Havel. There are countless offers for individuals, couples, friends and families.

• Spreefahrten
• Classic Cities Tour
• Bike tour along the Spree and Havel’s banks
• Bathing at the Nieder-Neuendorfer See, in the Tegeler See or in the Havel

Brandenburg Gate, Victory Column, Alexanderplatz – anyone travelling to Berlin really just wants to explore the capital and enjoy big city life. But more and more younger people are interested in camping on holiday. City and nature can also be combined at the same time. Camping, sleeping in a sleeping bag, cooking on a gas stove and enjoying the view of pure nature is something many young people find relaxing. German campsites offer a wide variety of sleeping options. So you can stay with your own car, a tent or camper van just about anywhere. Likewise, you can then also make day trips to the city center of Berlin and experience every sight and attraction with.

• Different sleeping arrangements
• Camping van, tent or motorhome
• Day trips to Berlin

Camping tips in the magazine

Whether in Germany, Europe or worldwide – FIV Magazine has summarized the best camping and travel places for you. We show you how to enjoy a camping holiday and what highlights you can experience while camping.

Camping checklist

A campsite offers individual recreational activities in addition to the beautiful sites. For couples, there are often spas, beer gardens and cafes to enhance your nature holiday. As a family, it’s nice to give the kids the chance to let off steam in the great outdoors. Some campsites offer swimming pools, playgrounds and other child-friendly attractions for this purpose. Sports enthusiasts can also work out in the swimming pool or fitness rooms during their vacation and continue to stay fit during their free time. While package holidaymakers have to leave their pets at home, campsites offer pet-friendly options to take your dog and cat with you and enjoy your holiday with your pet.

• For couples: spas, beer gardens and cafés
• For families: nature, swimming pools and playgrounds
• For active people: swimming pool or fitness rooms
• For pet owners: camping with dog and cat

Road trip with the whole family. Roof tent from Campwerk.

Berlin: Camping Tips

Evaluation: What is important on the campsite?

Those who want to explore the capital can then enjoy the peace and relaxation at the campsite. Every campsite has a different layout and structure. When researching new campsites, look out for these 11 factors:

1. Quiet
2. Catering
3. Kindness
4. Price-performance ratio
5. Cleanliness in general
6. Sanitation
7. Cleanliness sanitary
8. Condition of the rental accommodation / plots
9. Infrastructure
10. Free time
11. Location

Campsite recommendations in Berlin

Here you can find our small selection of recommendations for Berlin! You want even more? On Campwerk you will find many more campsites for many cities in Berlin like Krossinsee and Kladow.

Camping ground Krossinsee – (260 places)

Camping ground Krossinsee (address: Wernsdorfer Straße 38 in 12527 Berlin-Schmöckwitz) with 260 pitches for campers on a total area of 9 ha. Per person you pay 8,50 Euro, children 4,00 Euro as well as stand fee 9,50 – 11,50 Euro, payable with cash, Maestro, Mastercard, Visa. Read more: Campsite Krossinsee

Directions, address and camper capacities at the Krossinsee campsite:

• Address: Wernsdorfer Straße 38 in 12527 Berlin-Schmöckwitz, Germany
• Location: Berlin
• 260 pitches for campers
• 46 Rental accommodation
• 230 places for permanent campers
• Total size in ha: 9
• Directions (Google Maps): Camping ground Krossinsee

DCC-Camping site Berlin-Kladow – (150 places)

DCC-Camping Berlin-Kladow (address: Krampnitzer Weg 111-117 in 14089 Berlin-Kladow) with 150 pitches for campers on 7 ha total area and a plot size of 60-140 m². Per person one pays 8.50 euros, children 4.30 euros as well as stand fee Inclusive, payable with cash, Maestro. Read more: DCC Camping Berlin-Kladow

Directions, address and camper capacities at the DCC campsite Berlin-Kladow:

• Address: Krampnitzer Weg 111-117 in 14089 Berlin-Kladow, Germany.
• Location: Berlin
• 150 pitches for campers
• 2 rental accommodations
• 560 places for permanent campers
• 60-140 m² plot size
• Total size in ha: 7
• Directions (Google Maps): DCC-Camping Berlin-Kladow

DCC-Camping site Gatow – (120 places)

DCC-Camping Gatow (address: Kladower Damm 213-217 in 14089 Berlin-Gatow) with 120 pitches for campers on 2.5 ha total area and a plot size of 90-100 m². Per person one pays 8.50 euros, children 4.30 euros as well as stand fee Inclusive, payable with cash, Maestro. Read more: DCC Camping Gatow

Directions, address and camper capacities at DCC-Camping Gatow:

• Address: Kladower Damm 213-217 in 14089 Berlin-Gatow, Germany.
• Location: Berlin
• 120 pitches for campers
• 60 places for permanent campers
• 90-100 m² plot size
• Total size in ha: 2.5
• Directions (Google Maps): DCC-Camping Gatow

Hotel & City Camping North – (80 places)

Hotel & City Camping North with 80 pitches for campers on 1 hectare total area. Read more: Hotel & City Camping North

Directions, address and camper capacities at Hotel & City Camping Nord:

• Location: Berlin
• 80 pitches for campers
• 1 Rental accommodation
• Total size in ha: 1

Berlin: Camping in the German capital

Not only in good weather Berlin can be enjoyed with exciting leisure activities. In wind and rain there are also opportunities to pass the time with indoor activities. Whether with family, friends or as a couple, especially in Berlin you can find the right activity. Here you will find 11 alternatives to enjoy the holiday season in bad weather:

1. Black light mini golf
2. Sealife
3. Escape Room
4. Spa and wellness
5. Reichtagskuppel
6. TV Tower
7. Berlin cinemas
8. Shopping Center
9. Sports studios and Jumpe House
10. Madame Tussauds

Map and landscape in Berlin

Berlin is the capital of the Federal Republic of Germany. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. In addition to the historic center, with all its sights, there are numerous streams and lakes. Likewise, there are large forest areas with huge parks that want to experience Berlin as the green city. Here, animal lovers can also spend a day in zoos, animal parks and other zoological institutions.

Lakes & tributaries in Berlin:

• Spree
• Havel
• Panke
• Dahme
• Wuhle
• Erpe
• Lake Tegel
• Great Wannsee
• Müggelsee
• Spectra Lake

Forests and parks in Berlin:

• Zoo
• Rose Island
• Luiseninsel
• Tempelhof Park
• Botanical gardens
• Victoria Park
• Schiller Park

Beautiful nature in the city – Berlin Video

If you don’t have time or money to leave the country, you don’t have to miss out on a holiday. Especially in Berlin, everything is offered to you. From city life to green nature, here you can experience everything as a camper. Who is still not convinced should watch these 2 videos. Cute animals, green forests and quiet lakes or rivers – in Berlin you can make your dream vacation and get some change from the boring and monotonous everyday life.

You will find many more good recommendations on the subject of campsites on Campwerk: Campingplatz Berlin

Roof tent or converted van?

What is more practical on holiday and on road trips? A roof tent or a completely converted van? Depending on whether you are planning a short camping trip or a long-term travel tour, one or the other option is better suited. On the one hand, a roof tent can be set up quickly and easily and is also cheaper than a fully converted camper van. Therefore, you can easily stop at any campsite and make a stop. However, there is something nice about having your own van! You put a lot of time, love and money into it and you can travel comfortably for a longer period of time. In this video you can see the direct comparison of the two variants and can orientate yourself accordingly.

Advantages roof tent:

• Quick and easy assembly
• Can be flexibly mounted on almost any car
• Less expensive than van

Advantages removed van:

• Integrated kitchen with refrigerator, stove etc.
• No great construction necessary
• More space than in the roof tent
• Durable and more domestic

VW T4 classic: purchase, conversion, costs & facts

If you are planning a longer trip or even want to move for some time completely in a converted van, then you will learn here once all the important and worth knowing information that you need to know when purchasing, for example, a VW bus. How much does an independent conversion cost approximately? How can I best save time, work and money? And what else do I need to consider before I fulfil a lifelong dream and start the adventure of my life as a dropout?

Check out this video here for a testimonial from passionate vanlifers who fulfilled their dream of owning their own camper and built it completely on their own.

Tip! Do you already know the iKamper?

If you’re considering a rooftop tent, then you should definitely take a closer look at the iKamper SKYCAMP 2.0. It sets up in just a few seconds and creates an amazingly large and comfortable living space for up to four people. The uncomplicated handling makes it the perfect rooftop tent for travellers and explorers.

The iKamper offers you:

• Simple and uncomplicated assembly
• Quick assembly
• Comfortable living space
• Numerous possible uses
• Space for up to four people

Road trip with the whole family. Roof tent from Campwerk.

Tent types – trekking tent, throwing tent, roof tent & geodesist

The probably most classical and easiest way of camping is camping. This is most suitable for a short trip not too far away. You don’t have to pay much attention and can choose a campsite where you can spend a nice time with your family or friends. This way you are flexible in where you want to spend your holiday and still be in the fresh air. You can just pitch your tent spontaneously at a place you like and move on the next day if you feel like it. This is also one of the cheapest ways of camping, because you don’t have to pay much when you do wild camping and on a campsite you usually only pay the entrance fee for yourself.

However, there are different types of tents you have to choose between. A simple person tent only offers space for a few people, but is sufficient if you are only with your partner or one or two friends. The tent does not take up much space in your luggage and is therefore ideal for a short trip in nature. If you want to avoid the complicated setup of the tent, you can opt for a throw tent.

The most popular types of tents are:

• Trekking tent – This tent is extremely compact but very durable.
• Throw Tent – A throw tent is compact and quick to pitch.
• Dome Tent – A dome tent requires little space and can be set up easily and quickly.
• Rooftop tent – This makes it easy to set up tents anywhere and these tents have very good insulation.
• Tunnel tent – A tunnel tent offers a lot of space and often even standing height.
• Family tent – This tent offers plenty of space for the whole family.
• Ridge tent – Ridge tents are bright and open and perfect for an Indian adventure.
• Geodätzelt – The Geodätzelt holds even on rocky ground, steep slopes or dense vegetation.
• Pyramid tent – These tents are extremely stable and can withstand strong winds.

So if you want to spend a few days in nature in a simple and uncomplicated way, you should get involved in this experience. Of course, a hotel bed would be more comfortable than the mattress with which your tent is probably equipped, but for this short time you can accept the lack of comfort if in return you are offered an unforgettable nature experience.

So you will find the right tent for you:

There are many different types of tents that are suitable for different trips. So if you are planning an expedition into the mountains, you will need a different tent than if you want to camp on the beach. And read on – at the end of the article we have an informative video about backpacking tents.

Trekking tent – compact and resistant

This tent is extremely compact but very durable. It requires only a small packing size and is very light, which can be very advantageous when travelling. The trekking tents are available in one- or two-person versions.

• small packing size
• little stress
• one or two persons tents

Litter tent – set up within a few minutes

A Wurfzelt is compact and quick to set up. It is a free-standing tent, so it does not need guy lines. It is extremely easy to set up, there is no need to push in the poles. Disadvantages are that the tent can only offer moderate stability in wind and is a large pack size.

• very quick to set up
• freestanding
• large pack size
• no tedious insertion of the linkage
• moderate wind stability

Dome tent – for difficult surfaces

A dome tent requires little space and can be erected easily and quickly. It is a free-standing tent, which is even lighter than a geodesic tent. Dome tents are good for difficult surfaces such as gravel and steep slopes and are very easy to set up. The dome tents offer good value for money.

• freestanding
• lighter than geodesic tents
• simpler structure
• good value for money
• good for difficult substrates

Roof-tent – flexible and comfortable travelling

With this you can easily put up tents everywhere and these tents have a very good insulation. They are waterproof and have a comfortable mattress inside the tent, which is not comparable to an insulation mattress. In addition, roof tents can be erected in a few minutes with the help of a crank mechanism or gas pressure springs. They are suitable for any car and offer the possibility to be as flexible as you want when travelling. If you don’t like a place, you can just keep on travelling. Plus you don’t even have to look for a campsite, a parking space is enough.

• good thermal insulation
• flexible travel
• comfortable mattress inside
• simple and fast assembly
• waterproof
• suitable for all cars

Tunnel tent – lots of space and good wind protection

A tunnel tent offers a lot of space and often even headroom. Tunnel tents offer the best weight/space ratio and also provide protection even in strong winds. However, if you are looking for an even more stable tent, you should choose a cross between a tunnel tent and a geodesic tent. A tunnel tent has parallel pole arches and a crossing with a Geodesic tent has crossed pole arches. This characteristic offers just a little more stability.

• best relation to weight and use of space
• good protection against strong winds
• Crossing with Geodät -> crossed rod arches -> more stability

Family tent – the holiday home to go

This tent offers plenty of space for the whole family. It is an oversized camping tent, which offers a good standing height and often even windows. The family tent is a good alternative to a holiday home. It offers a lot of comfort and space for the luggage.

• oversized camping tents
• good standing height
• plenty of room for luggage
• Large windows if necessary
• inexpensive alternative to the holiday home

Ridge tent – perfect for Indian adventure

Ridge tents are bright and open and perfect for an Indian adventure. A ridge tent, just like a family tent, offers a good standing height. The thermal insulation is not very good, but you can light a fire inside the tent, which will keep you warm. It also offers plenty of space for several people and luggage.

• good standing height
• lots of space for several people and luggage
• poor heat insulation
• Fire can be lit in the tent

Geodes – stable, weatherproof and suitable for extreme expeditions

The Geodätzelt also holds on rocky ground, on steep slopes or densely overgrown sections. Geodesic tents are very stable, weatherproof and do not necessarily need guy lines to withstand the weather. They are often used during trekking because they can be set up even when there is not much space and are stable and sturdy even on difficult ground.

• very stable
• weatherproof
• very stable even without guy ropes
• is often used for trekking
• even with little space
• even with different soil conditions

Pyramid tent – good for ultra-light hikers

These tents are extremely stable and can withstand strong winds. They are good for ultra-light hikers and offer good space. The tents consist of tarpaulins, poles and pegs. They have been around for many years, but the pyramid tents are never re-laid by tent manufacturers.

• good for ultra-light hikers
• consists of tarpaulin, pole and pegs
• is reissued again and again by tent manufacturers
• good seat

Backpacking tents: Which one is the right one for you?

When backpacking you should make sure that the tent is light, takes up little packing space, can be set up quickly and is stable. It should also be able to withstand different types of ground. Not to forget: The tent must fit into the backpack! What else you have to pay attention to is summarized in this informative video.

Living in nature: Tent, caravan or camper van

Probably the most important things you should have with you when camping are things for living. Most people think of camping directly as camping. However, there are also other possibilities to spend the night in nature. Whether in a classic tent or a caravan, camping can be a varied and multifaceted experience and offers plenty of space and freedom, so that everyone can organise their holiday according to their preferences. Depending on which option you choose, you will need to pack the right luggage.

Tent: The most popular way to camp

The probably most classical and simplest variant of camping is tent camping. This is most suitable for a short trip not too far away. You don’t have to pay much attention and you can choose a campsite where you can spend a nice time with your family or friends. This gives you flexibility in where you go on holiday and yet you are always in the fresh air. You can set up your tent spontaneously at a place you like and move on the next day if you feel like it. This is also one of the cheapest ways of camping, because you don’t have to pay much when you do wild camping and on a campsite you usually only pay the entrance fee for yourself.

Tent types: Trekking tent, throw tent, dome tent & Co.

As already described in the article Camping accessories, there are different types of tents between which you have to decide. A simple person tent only offers space for a few people, but is perfectly sufficient if you are only travelling with your partner or one or two friends. The tent does not take up much space in your luggage and is therefore ideal for a short trip in the nature. If you want to avoid the complicated construction of the tent, you can opt for a throw tent. The most popular types of tents are:

• Trekking tent – compact but very resistant
• Litter tent – compact and quick to set up
• dome tent – low weight, high stability and simple construction
• Rooftop tent – for camping everywhere with particularly good insulation
• Tunnel tent – lots of space and headroom
• Family tent – lots of space for the whole family
• Ridge tent – bright and open and perfect for an Indian adventure
• dome tent – low space requirement and can be set up easily and quickly
• Geodetched – also holds on rocky ground, on steep slopes or densely overgrown sections
• Pyramid tent – extremely stable and withstand even strong winds
• Read here more about the different types of tents…

Comfort or unforgettable experience

So if you want to spend a few days in nature in a very simple and uncomplicated way, you should get involved in this experience. Of course, a hotel bed would be more comfortable than the mattress with which your tent is probably equipped, but for this short time, the missing comfort can be accepted if in return, one is offered an unforgettable experience of nature.

Caravan- & camper accessories: bath & kitchen utensils

How should a caravan and a motorhome actually be equipped? Caravans and motorhomes are usually fully equipped, but there are still some small things to think about. Whether washing machine or kitchen utensils; you should not do without a few everyday items even when camping. It is important to have basic equipment, certain kitchen utensils, bathroom utensils and also a few other useful small items. Our most important souvenirs, which one can use in a camper or caravan, are

• Gas bottles – important for those who plan to cook with a gas grill
• Clothesline, clamps and foldable laundry basket – especially important if you are on the road for a long time and have to wash yourself
• Cutlery, crockery, pots and pans – so cooking on the road is no longer a problem.
• Batteries, accumulators, converters – electricity is a matter of course in everyday life and not everyone can completely do without it when camping
• Duvets & pillows – for a good sleep and so that you don’t get cold at night

Campingbus expansion: Car conversion by yourself

Not enough room in the van? No problem, that’s what the camper extensions are for. Instead of going on holiday for several thousand euros, you can also invest the money in your own camper. Whether you choose a self-conversion or a ready-made camper van – what you choose depends on the need for comfort, the budget and the available vehicle. Here we have selected three reasons for you, why an extension, whether self-made or bought, is much better than a finished camper:
The one big advantage of the camper van conversion is the relatively low cost compared to finished motorhomes. A finished camper van can cost a good 50,000 Euros. With a self-conversion you get away much cheaper, especially if you already own a vehicle which can be converted. With your own bus you are super flexible and can experience a lot of adventures. The do-it-yourself mentality starts at home and once the camper is finished you can be quite proud of yourself. In addition, you have flexible options for use, your self-construction is suitable for everyday use. The van or family car can still be used as a normal means of transport, but on the journey it becomes a rolling holiday home.

1. Cheaper installation: Cheaper than caravan and motorhome
2. Adventure and freedom: Go when and where you want.
3. Flexible use: family car during the week, fun at the weekend

There are different types of conversions and with the right installation or conversion, the van will quickly become a living room, kitchen, bedroom or even a garage with plenty of room to store your belongings. With a conversion, the space you already have is cleverly extended and with a built-in, the space you already have is used practically.

Camping furniture: chairs, tables & beds

With camping furniture you build your own camp, whether on the campsite or in the open air. Here, one mostly thinks directly about chairs and tables, which are of course important, because they provide a relaxed togetherness, but also camp beds or cupboards should be thought of. With the chairs and tables you can build your own little terrace in front of the caravan, where you can sit together in the evening, laugh, chat, eat and drink. The camp beds are important if you don’t want to sleep for a few weeks on camping mats and air mattresses.

What you should pay attention to is the appearance – you should like the camping furniture of course and best of all, it should match the design of the rest of the camp. You should also look at which furniture you can really use and which can be easily replaced. If you buy a camping chair to sit on for a few hours, it should be comfortable. Another factor is size – camping furniture often has to be put up and taken down and should therefore be foldable. And last but not least, the stability of the camping furniture is of course important. Ideally, the furniture should last for many years and should therefore be stable and of high quality.

Checklist: Buy camping furniture

You must take this into account when buying camping furniture:

1. Looks
2. Function
3. Cozy
4. Size
5. Stability

Sleeping bag & Iso mat: sleeping in tent

Coming back to camp after a long day and just cuddling up in bed – a dream. But sleeping in a tent, caravan or even in a self-built camper can become quite uncomfortable after a few weeks. In order to be able to really relax at night it is important to have a comfortable sleeping place. This is where the sleeping bag and the mattress come into play. But what should you consider so that you don’t get cold at night and don’t suffer from back pain? Here are our most important tips for buying a sleeping bag and a sleeping mat.

Sleeping bags: sizes, shapes & materials

To decide on a sleeping bag, you should know that there are different materials for the filling. Whether down or synthetic fibre – when filling a sleeping bag, you should bear in mind that the different materials keep you warm differently. You should also consider the size when buying a sleeping bag. Ideally, it should be 25cm longer than your own body height. There are often adjustable sizes for children, but you should always take care not to buy a sleeping bag that is too big, otherwise it will not insulate properly.

When buying a sleeping bag, you should also pay attention to the shape of the sleeping bag, as there are three different shapes that insulate differently: mummy sleeping bags, egg-shaped sleeping bags and blanket sleeping bags. If you want to know what the differences are and which sleeping bag is right for you, take a look at our article on sleeping bags and sleeping mats.

• various sizes
• different material
• mummy sleeping bags, egg-shaped sleeping bags and blanket sleeping bags

Mats: R-values, mat types & Co.

What is also essential for a good night’s sleep when camping is a good mattress. Here again are a few important factors to consider, such as the R-value. The R-value measures the insulation capacity of a mat, i.e. how much heat the mat lets through.

• R-value 0: up to +15°C: suitable for midsummer
• R-value 1: up to +7°C: for summer and mild spring and autumn nights
• R value 2: up to +2°C: Spring to autumn, without ground frost
• … read all about sleeping bags and sleeping mats here

A distinction is also made between foam mats, self-inflating isomats and thermal or insulating air mattresses. You can find everything about R-values and the different types of mattresses in our article Sleeping Bags and Mattresses.

Heating and ventilation systems in motorhomes and caravans

Heating and ventilation systems are a must when camping in a camper or caravan. So that you don’t get cold in winter, the motorhome, caravan or camper should be preheated to a comfortable room temperature at least one hour before bedtime. But which heating systems are actually available and which are best?

Heating systems: gas, diesel, electric and air heating

Gas, diesel, electric and air heating, these are the different heating variants:

• Gas heating
• Diesel heating
• Electric heating
• Air heating

Gas heating – Heating with gas is the most common method in caravans and motorhomes, because most of the time there is already a gas system available, because gas is also used for the stove, oven and refrigerator. It is also practical, as a new, filled gas bottle can be found almost everywhere, even abroad. If you want to heat with a gas heater while driving, you should definitely use a gas pressure control system with crash sensor.

Diesel heating – Another method would be heating with diesel. A diesel heater uses the fuel available in the tank and can be used as an auxiliary heater, but generates some noise. An advantage of diesel heating is definitely that you do not have to rely on the electricity grid of the campsite.

Electric heating – electric heaters such as radiators and fan heaters are only suitable if there is a mains supply to which they can be connected. The only electric heaters that are worthwhile are heating mats for tents, as these can also be battery operated and heat up to 30 degrees.

Air Heating – Another option is air heating; like diesel heaters, they use the fuel of the vehicle, but are a much quieter alternative. An air heater often has an energy saving mode, a boost mode that heats faster and is even useful in summer when it cools the motorhome with the ventilation function. The air heater directs the warm air through a channel system to the floor of the motorhome, from where the heat can then rise. The only disadvantage is that the air dries quickly and that dust particles fly around in the caravan all the time due to the constant circulation. Not very practical for allergy sufferers, but this problem can be solved by airing the caravan regularly.

Ventilation systems – Fresh air in motorhomes

Why does a caravan actually need a ventilation system? This is a simple question, inside the caravan a lot of moisture often collects overnight, which can result in damp beds. In addition, especially when a gas stove or gas oven is in use, it is important to provide sufficient fresh air. A caravan has a certain forced ventilation and forced exhaust. The forced ventilation provides sufficient new oxygen, while the old air escapes via the forced ventilation.

The ventilation is usually located in the floor area of the caravan and should be closed with a grille so that rodents and other small friends cannot enter the caravan and, as warm air is known to rise, the vent is located in the upper area. Often a caravan has roof hatches or a pipe in the ceiling area, but sometimes doors are sufficient to provide sufficient ventilation. By the way; closing the ventilation system is not a good idea. The consequences can be dry air, gas or even mould due to moisture.

Ventilation system:

• In the floor area of the motorhome
• Closed with a grid
• Provides sufficient fresh air

Venting system:

• Roof hatch, tube in ceiling area, doors
• Old air escapes via the ventilation system

Sanitary facilities: Camping showers & -toilets

On campsites you will usually have sanitary facilities available, but wild campers should think about sanitary facilities or consider good alternatives to a shower in advance. But what equipment should you think about when you are travelling with a motorhome? And what should definitely not be missing in wild camping? We have summarized all the important things about sanitary facilities for you.

• Camping shower
• Camping toilet

Camping shower: PET, solar or portable camping shower

Hygiene should not be neglected on the campsite, so it is also important to shower regularly. There are several ways to stay true to your routine while camping, both on the campsite and in the countryside. One option is the simple PET bottle shower – for this you just need your water bottle, which you ideally have with you anyway, and a cap in which you make a few holes with a sharp and hot needle. Voilà: The Shower To Go. And it’s also space-saving, the only luggage you have is an extra lid with a few holes. But this is not the best option for wimps. But it is possible to heat the water with the help of the sun or to boil water and mix it with cold water to have a nice shower.

Another possibility would be a solar shower. This consists of a black bag that is placed in the sun, heated, then hung on a branch or rock, and then there is the possibility of a pleasantly warm shower. The sack can be easily stored in a backpack and there are also different sizes from 10 to 40 litres. Our last variant is the portable camping shower. The portable camping shower is a water tank that is pressurized with a few pump strokes so that it flows upwards through a hose. If you combine this camping shower with a foldable shower cabin, you almost feel at home.

Thus, those who still have some space in the car and want to treat themselves to some comfort should choose the camping shower, which is also not really heavy with an empty weight of approximately 1 kg. Important tip: Protect the environment when showering outside. Try to use as little water as possible, because your soap or shampoo contaminates it and we don’t want to have this dirty water in lakes, rivers or the sea. Also try to shower away from water.

The different types of camping showers:

• PET bottles shower
• Solar shower
• Portable camping shower

Camping toilet: chemical & dry toilet

A camping toilet is a must for all camping lovers. A distinction is made between chemical toilets and dry toilets. The chemical toilet does not need a connection to the sewage system and the faeces are collected in a container where they are decomposed by chemical substances. Under no circumstances, however, should the chemicals be disposed of in nature. For campers there is always the possibility to counteract the growth of bacteria with a little citric acid or vinegar water, as these biodegradable substances change the pH-values. For each chemical toilet there are certain regulations from the manufacturer, about which you should inform yourself in advance.

Dry toilets are toilets that do not flush with water. They are an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical toilets and are divided into dry toilets with urine separation, dry toilets with compost and dry toilets with combustion. In the most expensive variant, the dry toilet with incineration, the leftovers are burned immediately after going to the toilet and all that remains is a little sterile ash.

The dry toilet with composter is a container in which the leftovers are pre-composted before they end up on the compost heap. Often a few technical extras such as fans, rotating containers, heating rods and also agitators are used here. In addition, urine and faeces are separated in the dry toilet with composter, which ensures odour neutrality. In a dry toilet with urine separation, solid and liquid residues are separated, dried with bark mulch and disposed of afterwards.

Types of camping toilets:

• Chemical toilet
• Dry toilet with combustion
• Dry toilet with composter
• Dry toilet with urine separation

Camping lamps: battery, accumulator, gas or solar lamp

It’s not always bedtime as soon as the sun goes down. That’s why campers definitely need a camping lamp, because it allows you to sit together in the evening when the campfire doesn’t give enough light. There are four common types of camping lamps: lamps with gas, with batteries, with accumulator or solar lamps.

Battery-powered lamps have the advantage that they do not need to be recharged and are mobile. However, the disadvantages are that batteries are environmentally harmful and are not cheap. Camping lamps that run on gas take the gas from a cartridge. The advantage and disadvantage is that these lamps emit heat. In winter this can be very practical, but in summer it is rather unpleasant. The gas lamp also has a different burning time depending on the model and you should definitely keep the fire risk in mind.

This is not the case with a battery-powered camping lamp, and a battery-powered lamp probably has the longest life. The disadvantage is that they also usually have a long charging time and are therefore not always available. And if the battery breaks down you can have a real problem, because it is often not possible to change the battery while travelling. The last variant would be the solar lamp; it is the most environment-friendly possibility, as it charges itself if it gets some sunrays during the day. And if the sun does not shine, there is often a hand crank or a power connection as an alternative. By the way: The solar lamp is the cheapest option! This way you protect the environment and your wallet at the same time.

So the 4 most common variants are:

• Camping lamp with battery
• Lamp with battery
• Camping lamp with gas
• Solar lamp

Valuables storage: safe, fanny pack or good hiding place

Whether in a tent, caravan or your own camper van – you often travel with valuables that you want to store safely in your accommodation. There are of course enough people who simply resort to the old trick and hide their cash in their socks. But some people prefer a safe for the motorhome, in which you can safely lock up everything important.

The easiest solution is to reach for a box that can be locked. Then you should not lose the key in any case! My personal tip is to always carry your valuables with you. A fanny pack is a good idea for example when camping, and especially at festivals, to carry your most important souvenirs on your body. It doesn’t bother you, looks good and so it is harder to lose your valuables or it is harder for pickpockets to get your money, your keys and your mobile phone.

Impregnate & Care: protect the tent

Is your tent and awning already impregnated? Especially before a longer trip it is important to impregnate the tent or renew the impregnation, because sunlight, weather, heavy rain and abrasion make an impregnation useless over time. It is therefore recommended to reimpregnate the tent every few years to avoid having to sleep in a damp sleeping bag when travelling. There are different products for impregnation, which must be used differently. You should also remember to clean and maintain your tent regularly. How exactly you do this, what is the best way to impregnate your tent and which household products are effective, you can read in the article Impregnation and care.

Dog accessories – packing list & tips

Who travels with his four-legged friend knows that man’s best friend has at least as much fun camping as man himself. But of course you have to think of certain things if you want to take your dog with you on a journey. Whether it’s out in nature or on the beach, sufficient drinking water and food are essential. A leash and the dog bed are also essential and you should always have enough toys and treats with you.

Especially when camping, a doormat can be very useful so that the dog can clean its paws a little before entering the motorhome. This saves a lot of work. If you also go camping in winter or take your four-legged friend on extreme expeditions, where it can get very cold, you should think about dog clothing. On a long journey a dog transport box can also be useful, so that the four-legged friend is a little more protected in case of an accident.

Another good tip is a hand vacuum cleaner, in case the dog takes some dirt in the camper. And for those who know what wet dog smells like and are bothered by it, there is anti-odour spray. This spray is completely harmless for humans and animals and removes unpleasant odours with the help of micro-organisms, so that you don’t have to worry about dog odour once it has rained.

Checklist: Dogs on vacation

Packing list for the dog:

• Drinking water, food – enough for the journey and the stay
• leash – especially from campsites, where there are other dogs, this can be very useful
• Dog bed – for good sleep, even when travelling
• Toys – because a dog also wants to be kept busy when the owner relaxes.
• Snacks – as a little reward in between
• foot mat – so less dirt is taken into the accommodation
• Dog clothing – in case it gets cold or you go on an extreme expedition
• Hand-held vacuum cleaner – because sometimes some dirt does get into the tent or motorhome
• Anti odour spray – especially in rain this spray can be very useful

Here you can find out more about Holiday with pets:

Camping equipment: novelties

The equipment you need for a camping trip is of course evolving year after year, and that’s why we have summarized the most important camping news that will make your camping life easier. The best way to find out about the biggest novelties is to visit the tourism fair, travel fairs and camping fairs.

Novelties in camping: Top 5

Our top 5 camping novelties are:

An important novelty are solar showers – we think: The more environmentally friendly, the better! The solar showers have many advantages and are the cheapest camping shower option. Self-inflating mats and self-erecting tents are also new on the market. These new products save you a lot of time and effort and, when packed together, usually take up very little packing space.

The Cozybag is a sleeping bag that is also a blanket, jacket and coat. 4 in 1! The space saving one. Very important: comfortable camping furniture . Since you spend a lot of time on your camping chairs when camping, it can only be an advantage if they are comfortable. And last but not least: ultra light camping accessories. When camping, it is always important to take as light accessories with you as possible. With ultra-light accessories, you don’t have to drag as much. Especially in your backpack you can see the difference.

So these are the most important novelties that you will definitely need for your next camping holiday:

• Solar showers: Heat from the sun
• Self-inflating mats and self-assembling tents: a time-saving investment
• The Cozybag: sleeping bag, blanket, jacket and coat
• Comfortable camping furniture – chairs, beds & Co.
• Ultra-light camping accessories – perfect for backpacking.

Cooking, grilling & cooling while camping

If you think that camping is a way of eating canned food for weeks on end, you are wrong. From pasta with fresh sauces, to pancakes, to baked potatoes and bread. The best way to cook during the camping is with a gas stove and gas oven, thus one does not have to abstain from one’s favourite food while travelling. Many campers also develop a certain love for barbecues during their travels; preparing and meeting together before the meal creates a special atmosphere. So you should always remember to bring enough spices and food. Those who stay at the campsite will probably have a supermarket nearby, so there is no need to go hamster shopping.

Our tip: campfire!

Find out where you can light a fire and if you can light one, use the atmosphere for stick bread, marshmallows and good stories.

What I also want to recommend is a good cool bag or a fridge in your motorhome. So the dish that was prepared on Wednesday can be eaten until Sunday. Besides, a cool drink in the sun tastes better than a lukewarm one. Many campers also prepare packed lunches for excursions, which often contain a smeared and sandwiched bread. This idea is very clever, especially if you are travelling with children who get bitchy when hungry. However, in order to be able to spread this bread, you must have the necessary ingredients in the fridge. So: shop and keep it cool, and then use it up when you travel.

Essential for cooking, grilling and cooling:

• Gas stove, gas oven
• Camping grill, coal and lighter
• Spices and food
• Good recipes

Outdoor knives & Tools: packing list

What do you need an outdoor knife for? An outdoor knife or survival knife can be used to carve wood or to work on fish and meat. With a Survival knife you can cut ropes, which you use occasionally when camping, and you can also cut a simple sandwich in half. When buying an outdoor knife it is important to consider the legal aspects, because a knife can quickly be classified as a weapon if it has a certain blade length. Outdoor knives differ in blade length, shape, robustness and material.

A few practical tools that you should also think of are a screwdriver, a hammer, a small saw, pliers, armour tape and a folding rule. Our tip is to buy a small toolbox, which will always stay in the caravan. So you can’t forget anything and always have everything you need with you.

Checklist: Toolbox

• Outdoor knife
• Screwdriver
• Hammer
• Small saw
• Pliers
• Armor tape
• Folding ruler

Brands: camping accessories

There are several major brands of camping accessories that most camping enthusiasts probably already know. The different brands have specialized in different types of accessories and therefore it is almost impossible to crown the best brand. The most popular brand for automotive equipment is Alko, the best heaters are produced by the company Truma and the air conditioners and refrigerators from Dometic are top of the line. The best roof tents are available from Campwerk. We have put together the best brands for various types of camping accessories for you:

• Chassis technology: Alko
• Heaters: Truma
• Air conditioning systems and refrigerators: Dometic
• Satellite system: Oyster
• Solar plants: Büttner
• Power generator: Honda
• Toilet systems: Thetford
• Accessory trade: Fritz Berger
• Two-wheeler: Thule
• Rooftop tents: Campwerk

Camping – Living and sleeping in nature

If you are planning to go on a camping trip, you should be well prepared. There are some essential things you should not forget at home. Whether you travel with the whole family or with your dog, for different holidays you need different souvenirs. But if you are prepared, your camping holiday will be a lot of fun, a great adventure and an unforgettable experience!

Sleeping bags – down & synthetic fibre

To decide on a sleeping bag, you should know that there are different materials for the filling. Whether down or synthetic fibre – when filling a sleeping bag, you should bear in mind that the different materials keep you warm differently. For different campers there are different equipment, you just have to decide which criteria are most important to you.

The arguments in favour of down sleeping bags are that they keep you warm, take up little space and are very light. On the other hand, down sleeping bags are relatively expensive and very sensitive to moisture compared to synthetic sleeping bags. They have a long drying time and do not insulate well when damp.

Advantages of down sleeping bags:

• keep warm
• small pack size
• are very light

Disadvantages

Disadvantages of down sleeping bags:

• quite expensive
• very sensitive to moisture
• do not insulate well when damp

Synthetic fibre sleeping bags

A synthetic fibre sleeping bag, on the other hand, is hardly sensitive to moisture, insulates even when damp and dries quickly. It is a cheaper alternative, but takes up a lot of space and is relatively heavy compared to down.

Advantages of synthetic sleeping bags:

• hardly moisture-sensitive
• insulates even in a damp state
• dries quickly
• cheaper alternative

Disadvantages of synthetic fibre sleeping bags:

• takes up a lot of space
• relatively heavy compared to down

Sizes and shapes of sleeping bags

It should also be noted that there are sleeping bags of different sizes and shapes. Here, a simple calculation applies: Just take your own height, add 25 cm and you have the optimal length of the sleeping bag. With children, you should make sure that you do not make the sleeping bag too big so that you can use it for the next few years, because this way it will not insulate properly and the little ones will quickly freeze. The sleeping bag keeps better warm when it is tight-fitting.

That is why there are three different sleeping bag shapes: mummy sleeping bags, egg-shaped sleeping bags and blanket sleeping bags. Mummy sleeping bags are close-fitting and have a small pack size and weight, but keep you warm even in freezing temperatures. Egg-shaped sleeping bags offer more freedom of movement and despite more space in the leg and hip area, there is still enough insulation in the sensitive foot area. The ceiling sleeping bag, on the other hand, offers plenty of space but does not protect against cold feet. They are not suitable for cold temperatures, but on warm summer nights it is very practical that you can turn the sleeping bag into a large blanket by opening the zipper. This offers a lot of freedom of movement and the possibility to stretch one leg out of the sleeping bag. You are still not sure which sleeping bag is the best for you? Here you will find a summary of the most important factors for a decision.

Isomats – different types for different climates

What is also essential for a good night’s sleep while camping is a good mattress. Here again there are a few important factors to consider, such as the R-value. The R-value measures the insulation capacity of a mat, i.e. how much heat the mat lets through. The R-value is the one that allows the least amount of heat to be lost, making these mats the best choice for cold temperatures. I have selected the different R-values and listed which mat is suitable for which climate.

• R-value 0: up to +15°C: suitable for midsummer
• R value 1: up to +7°C: for summer and mild spring and autumn nights
• R value 2: up to +2°C: spring to autumn, without ground frost
• R-value 3: down to -5°C: suitable until mild winter
• R-value 4: down to -11°C: 4 seasons, suitable for winter
• R-value 5: down to -17°C: suitable for winter
• R-value 6: down to -24°C: suitable for winter, suitable for high alpine tours
• R-value 7: down to -32°C: suitable for expedition
• R value 8: down to -38°C: for extreme expeditions
• R value 9: down to -45°C: for extreme expeditions
• R value 10: down to -50°C: for extreme expeditions

Source: underway.biz

The three types of mats: foam mats, self-inflating mats and thermal mats

A distinction is also made between foam mats, self-inflating iso-mats and thermo-mats or insulating air mattresses. Foam mats insulate even if the material is damaged, are not sensitive to moisture and are permanently pressure-resistant. A big disadvantage, however, is that foam mats cannot be folded and can only be rolled up and therefore require a large packing size and are also not the most comfortable option.

The self-inflatable mat is a variant that offers more comfort and is also self-inflating and also lets the air out on its own when a valve is opened. This means that the mattress can be folded and takes up almost no space when compressed. The self-inflating mattress is very light and also very heat-insulating. The only disadvantage: if damaged, it cannot be inflated until the hole is mended.

Thermo mats or insulating air mattresses offer the highest R-value, as they are filled with air as well as down or synthetic fibres. Because of these fillings, insulating air mattresses are of course much heavier than self-inflating mats, but there are also modern light versions that are lighter than conventional thermal mats. Also with this type of mattress you have to be careful with sharp-edged objects, because as soon as there is a hole in the mattress, it cannot be used until it is mended.

foam mats:

• not moisture-sensitive
• permanently pressure resistant
• large pack size
• not the most comfortable option

Self-inflatable mats:

• a great deal of comfort
• self-inflating, deflates alone
• little packing size
• extremely lightweight
• heat-insulating
• cannot be used if damaged

Thermal mats

• best thermal insulation
• relatively heavy (except light variants)
• cannot be used if damaged

For those who like to relax in nature, it is a great idea to buy a hammock. When buying a hammock, you should pay attention to the weight, the packing size and the loading capacity. Outdoor hammocks are weatherproof and are the perfect place to relax when camping or as a travel hammock when hiking. Most outdoor hammocks are made of a nylon fabric, also known as parachute silk, and therefore offer a lot of comfort through elasticity and at the same time strong robustness.

An outdoor hammock dries quickly after a shower and is the perfect place to end your evenings or take some time for yourself. This way you can enjoy nature to the full. By the way – some people also sleep in a hammock. So the tent can stay at home and you can spend a few nights under a clear starry sky.

If you are afraid of rain you can also put a so-called tarpaulin over the hammock. Tarps are waterproof tarpaulins that can be stretched over the sleeping area. Parallelogram-shaped tarps protect in light rain, while diamond-shaped tarps also protect in heavy rain and storms. So you can really enjoy pure nature. If you sleep in a hammock you should pay attention to the correct lying position to avoid backache and you should inform yourself beforehand how to fix the hammock correctly.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0pI2jS-mc6U

Camping in tents: sleeping bags, sleeping mats & hammocks

Camping in a tent is the camping variant that promises the most adventure. In a tent you are closest to nature. Surrounded by plants and animals it is something very special to spend the night in a tent. But to still have a certain level of comfort it is important to take the right equipment with you. The right sleeping bag and mattress will ensure that you don’t get cold at night and that you can start the next day well rested and motivated.

Impregnate – with liquid impregnator or impregnation spray

Is your tent and awning already impregnated? Especially before a longer trip it is important to impregnate the tent or renew the impregnation, because sunlight, weather, heavy rain and abrasion make an impregnation useless over time. It is therefore recommended to reimpregnate the tent every few years to avoid having to sleep in a damp sleeping bag when travelling.

Impregnation does not make your tent waterproof!

By the way: Impregnation does not make a tent waterproof. It protects the fabric from getting soaked up with water. If your tent has seams that are permeable to water, impregnation will not save you. A waterproof tent always consists of an outer fabric with a waterproof coating and waterproof seams.

Liquid impregnator, impregnation language, household remedies – what helps?

There are different types of waterproofing options, such as liquid waterproofer, waterproofing spray and there are also a few good home remedies. If you use a spay, you should make sure that the tent is clean and completely closed before spraying it.

You should definitely do the spraying outside and please make sure that nothing of the product is inhaled. With a liquid impregnator, it is either possible to rub the tent with a sponge or brush, or to immerse the tent completely in the liquid in a bathtub or plastic tub. The liquid must be diluted with water, please refer to the package insert and make sure that you have as little contact with the liquid as possible.

After impregnation

With the spray and also with the liquid the tent must dry completely afterwards, if necessary the process can be repeated a second time. If you have to deal with leaking seams, you should try a liquid seam sealer. This is usually applied to the seams with a brush and ensures that it does not rain pure.

This is how you impregnate your tent properly:

1. Pitching up the tent – To make sure you don’t forget a single spot, it makes sense to pitch up the tent.
2. Apply the impregnating agent – No area should be overlooked during application.
3. Work in impregnation agent with a brush – With a brush you can work the impregnation agent correctly into the fabric.
4. Leave to take effect – The exact duration of the effect is stated in the package leaflet.
5. Rinse – All residues of the impregnating agent should be washed off.
6. Let it dry – Before packing the tent away, it must be completely dry.

Household remedy – acetic alumina & candle wax

The most effective household remedy for impregnation is acetic clay. You don’t need to pitch your tent for impregnation with acetic clay, you only need to bathe it in a plastic tub or your bathtub with the household remedy. After that you just need to hang up your tent and let it dry. You can get acetic alumina practically everywhere, you can buy it in your drugstore or order it on the internet. Attention – you should keep your hands off candle wax as an impregnating agent for seams. A tent is usually really expensive and you shouldn’t ruin it with a little do-it-yourself experiment.

• Candle wax – ruins the tent!
• Acetic alumina – works!

Care – Tips for cleaning and protection

You should also remember to clean and maintain your tent regularly. Never wash your tent in the washing machine or with a high-pressure cleaner! You might get the dirt out, but it will quickly damage your tent. Dry dirt like dust or sand can be shaken out easily, more stubborn dirt can be removed with a detergent. To do this, you must dilute the detergent with water as indicated on the package and then remove the dirt with a sponge or brush.

Wash your tent before drying and make sure that there are no more detergent residues on the tent. By the way, you can clean the zipper from dirt and sand with a toothbrush and protect it from wear and tear.

• Remove dirt
• Clean the tent regularly
• protect zipper from wear and tear

Structure and stay: ground, sunlight and shoes

When setting up the tent, make sure that there are no sharp stones or fir cones under the tent. These can make a hole in the floor of the tent. A tent base can be practical, as it protects the tent floor from damage. Avoid direct sunlight. At best, the tent should be in the shade and protected from the sun, as this can quickly cause the delicate tent fabric to become brittle. Different materials are naturally more sensitive than others. If a storm is imminent, you should definitely think about guy ropes. The lines should be pulled tight and re-tensioned when it rains, as many fabrics expand when damp.

Shoes should always be left outside or in the awning. These bring small stones into the tent, which can quickly drill fine holes in the tent floor.

Dismantling: fold up, pack up and moisture

When dismantling it makes sense to turn the tent inside out and shake it out. This way you can be sure that no pine needles or stones can damage the tent. Before packing up, you should also make sure that your tent is dry. Even if it hasn’t rained, it is most likely that some condensation has collected during the night or that the ground on which it stood has released some moisture. It is therefore best to hang the tent over a branch and wait until it is completely dry.

Storage and repair

At home the Zet should be stored well to protect it from moisture, heat and curious rodents. You should also make sure that the tent is 100% dry before you finally put it away. Otherwise it will quickly start to get mouldy! Make sure you use the right cleaning agents and be gentle on the delicate tent fabric. Stick to the package insert to avoid damaging the fabric.

Repair small tears and holes, reseal the seams and test the waterproofness with a watering can at home so that you don’t literally stand in the rain in nature. Nobody likes cold feet!

Protection and care: 9 tips

Here once again summarized, the 9 tips for your tent protection and care:

1. Watch out for stones and pegs on the ground, when erecting a tent
2. Avoid solar radiation (heat generation)
3. guy lines for a firm hold in wind and storm
4. Leave your shoes in the awning
5. Shake out the tent well when taking it down
6. Leave to dry properly before packing
7. Store the tent correctly (no moisture, heat or curious rodents)
8. Correct cleaning agents (observe package insert)
9. Repair small cracks and holes at home

Living & Cooking in the outdoors

Camping means travelling, without a big budget and with lots of adventure. But what do you actually have to take with you so that the trip becomes a lot of fun and you don’t miss anything on the trip? Which accessories must be taken along in any case if you travel with a motorhome and what must not be missing in any case if you stay overnight in a tent? Here you will find all the information you need about the different types of accommodation available for camping, the different types of accessories, extras for holidays with dogs and children, the main new products and the best brands of camping accessories.

Tent – from trekking tent to roof tent

As already described in the article Camping accessories, there are different types of tents between which you have to decide. A simple person tent only offers space for a few people, but is perfectly sufficient if you are only travelling with your partner or one or two friends. The tent does not take up much space in your luggage and is therefore ideal for a short trip in the nature. If you want to avoid the complicated construction of the tent, you can opt for a throw tent. The most popular types of tents are:

• Trekking tent – compact but very resistant
• Litter tent – compact and quick to set up
• dome tent – low weight, high stability and simple construction
• Rooftop tent – for camping everywhere with particularly good insulation
• Tunnel tent – lots of space and headroom
• Family tent – lots of space for the whole family
• Ridge tent – bright and open and perfect for an Indian adventure
• dome tent – low space requirement and can be set up easily and quickly
• Geodetched – also holds on rocky ground, on steep slopes or densely overgrown sections
• Pyramid tent – extremely stable and withstand even strong winds
• Read here more about the different types of tents…

Caravan accessories & Motorhome accessories – everything for the caravan

How wonderful it must be to travel around the world in a caravan or motorhome, having everything you need with you and simply enjoying the time in nature. But for this you need a packing list to take the most important utensils with you on your trip. What one should think of in any case are gas bottles, these are needed for cooking, heating or even grilling. Also important are a clothesline, clothes pegs and a foldable laundry basket, as also in the nature, one has to do the laundry.

Not only for cooking you have to think about different things, but also for eating. What is important are cutlery, dishes, pots and pans; thus, cooking on the way is also no problem anymore. Electricity is a matter of course in everyday life and not everybody wants to do without electricity during a camping excursion. In order to charge your mobile phone, flashlight or other useful everyday objects, you need batteries, accumulators and converters. In addition, those who do not travel with a sleeping bag should definitely think about duvets and pillows.

But what one should not lose sight of when packing is that a caravan or motor home has a certain equipment. This means that you don’t have to get many extras.

Campingbus expansion – from car to camper

Many camping fans dream of their own mobile home, but do not have the money to buy one. So for those who already own a van or a large family car, an own camper is the perfect solution. Whether you are a fan of the do-it-yourself mentality or buy a ready-made installation that you then install in the family car or van, your own camper has a very special atmosphere. The three advantages of a homemade or bought installation are firstly the cost factor, secondly the adventure factor and thirdly the suitability for everyday use. A finished camper van is a big investment and can be a very expensive adventure. With a homemade conversion you get away much cheaper, whether you already own a van or a family car that you can convert, or you want to buy a used van. 

Installation, or removal, is a cost-effective alternative to a finished camper van. Moreover, the adventure begins at home with a self-built camper, the do-it-yourself mentality ensures adventure and a lot of pride once the camper is finished. Another big advantage of an extension is that the van or family car can still be used normally in everyday life.

The three advantages of a camper van extension:

1. Cost factor – a camping extension is cheaper than a finished motorhome
2. adventure factor – even building your own camper van is great fun
3. Suitability for everyday use – the camper van can also be used as a normal car in everyday life

Camping furniture – important factors when buying chairs and tables

If you want to set up your own camp while camping, you should also think about chairs and tables that allow you to relax together. Whether in the evening by the campfire or during the day to simply relax, good camping furniture creates a pleasant camp atmosphere. However, you should make sure that the camping furniture is to your liking and matches the style of the rest of the camp. It is also important that the camping furniture serves its purpose. It should be comfortable and convenient, but it should also be collapsible, as a camp is often set up and taken down, for example when you travel further. Camping furniture should ideally last for several years and therefore it is important to pay attention to the quality and stability of the furniture. It is best to create a small terrace in front of the caravan or awning with your camping furniture and relax there with the whole group, family or friends.

Important factors to consider when buying camping furniture

1. Looking – of course they should look good
2. function – the most important thing is that they fulfil their purpose
3. size – as small as possible is the motto, if you travel a lot
4. Coziness – if the furniture is used a lot, it should of course also be comfortable
5. Stability – it is also important that they are stable and can be used for many years

Sleeping bag & Iso Mat – materials, different shapes and sizes

Heating and ventilation systems – from gas heating to electric heating

To avoid having to lie in a cold bed at night, it is important to have a heating system in your caravan. This can usually be switched on an hour before you cuddle up in bed to preheat the motorhome to the right temperature. There are four different types of heating systems that are common in the camping world. One of these is diesel heating and another is electric heating, air heating, or gas heating.

Each heating system has its advantages and disadvantages and is operated in a different way, but gives the same result. A particular type of heating can be practical for a caravan on a campsite, but it can be very impractical for a wild camper. That’s why you should find out about the advantages and disadvantages of a particular heating system. A caravan also has a ventilation system. The forced ventilation system provides enough new oxygen while the forced ventilation system lets the old used oxygen escape. The ventilation is usually located at the bottom and the vent in the upper part of the caravan.

If you are now wondering why a camper needs a ventilation system at all, then you have probably never slept in a damp and clammy bed. Because if the air stays in the caravan all night without circulating, a lot of moisture collects and allergy sufferers will also notice that a lot of dust particles fly around in the caravan, which have been stirred up by the heating. It is therefore important to ensure that there is sufficient oxygen in the caravan, but at the same time a comfortable temperature that makes the stay more pleasant. Here are a few more tips for you on how to keep warm in the caravan.

Sanitary facilities – camping showers & camping toilets

It is important not to compromise on hygiene during a camping trip. It is still important to take a shower and have access to water and a camping toilet. There are different types of camping showers that are suitable for campers. The different types take up different amounts of packing space, are different in environmental protection and comfort. Those who prefer luxury are likely to opt for a portable camping shower and a folding shower cabin. Those who want to protect the environment the most will opt for a solar shower. The cheapest and most practical option is probably the PET bottle shower, where a few holes are simply drilled into a bottle cap. This way you can easily shower with one bottle. An important tip is that you always shower away from water, so that you don’t contaminate it with shampoo and soap.

Types of camping showers:

• Portable camping shower – almost like at home
• Solar search – comfortable and environmentally friendly
• PET bottle shower – cheap and simple solution

There are also different types of camping toilets. A distinction is made between the chemical toilet and the dry toilet. The chemical toilet collects the faeces in a container where they are decomposed by a chemical substance. There are also more environmentally friendly variants, such as citric acid or vinegar water, instead of the chemicals. Dry toilets collect the leftovers separately and store them until they can be disposed of.

Camping-lamps – with batteries, accumulators, gas or solar power

Those who enjoy sitting around a campfire with the whole group in the evening and let the evening fade away know that it can be very useful to have a camping lamp with you on your journey. Whether you choose a camping lamp with a battery because it is mobile and does not need to be recharged, or whether you prefer to take a camping lamp with a battery because it has a longer life span: all types of camping lamps have their advantages and disadvantages. For example, a camping lamp with gas takes the gas from the cartridge, which can also be used for the stove or the heating. The solar lamp is the most environmentally friendly option, as it is self-charging and often has a hand crank or a power connection as an alternative for cloudy days.

Types of camping lamps:

• Camping lamp with battery
• Camping lamp with rechargeable battery
• Camping lamp with gas
• Solar lamp

Valuables storage – whether safe or fanny pack

Whether in a tent, motorhome or in a self-contained camping bus extension – you usually travel with valuables that you want to store safely in your accommodation and which you want to protect yourself in case of a burglary. The tried and tested tactic of hiding the money in your socks is not always enough. A passport, car keys and many other valuables, for example things of emotional value, should be kept in a safe. For those who travel a lot it is worth buying a fanny pack. In this bag you can safely store your valuables and always carry them with you. This way you always know exactly where your money, keys and mobile phone are and it is harder for pickpockets to get hold of your important items if you always carry them with you.

Impregnation & care – for waterproof tents

Whoever spends a lot of money on a tent should impregnate and maintain it properly to be able to use it for many years. If you have bought a waterproof tent and want to make sure that it will still be waterproof after years, you should impregnate it regularly. You can use a liquid impregnator or an impregnation spray, or you can use tried and tested household remedies such as acetic alumina. It is important to remember that a tent must have a waterproof outer fabric with a waterproof coating and waterproof seams to be waterproof. This fabric and the seams should be cared for so that you don’t have to sleep in a wet or damp sleeping bag at night.

You should also make sure that the tent is clean and that dust, sand but also more stubborn dirt is removed. You should not use candle wax as an impregnating agent for the seams and other do-it-yourself experiments if you don’t want to ruin your saute time. The impregnation process is almost always the same, the tent is either sprayed or rubbed or even bathed in a plastic tub or bathtub with impregnating agent. After that the tent has to dry and in some cases impregnated a second time. Remember to dilute the impregnating agent with water as described on the package insert and avoid skin contact as much as possible.

Dog accessories – from bowls to toys

For those who travel with their dog there is a very special packing list, so that nothing is missing for man’s best friend on the journey. The most important thing is of course the food, the dog bed, the leash and the bowl. It is important that the dog drinks enough in warm temperatures.  In addition you should think about toys and treats so that the dog can be kept busy when the herchen wants to relax and so that the dog can be rewarded when he has done something really great. What can also be important is dog clothing, because many people take their four-legged friend with them on expeditions where the temperatures are freezing cold. For those who like things to be clean, it can be handy to think about a doormat so that the dog can clean its paws before it enters the motorhome. A handheld vacuum cleaner can be useful if the dog ever takes some dirt into the camper. A small tip for those who know what a wet dog smells like is Anti Smell Spray. This spray removes unpleasant odours and is completely harmless to people and animals.

Small packing list for camping with dogs:

1. Food – against hunger on the journey
2. Dog bed – for a comfortable sleeping place
3. Leash – for the campsite
4. Bowl – for water and feed
5. Toys – to keep the dog busy
6. Treats – in case the pet has made something really nice
7. Dog clothes – because even the dog gets cold
8. Floor mat – to wipe your paws off
9. Hand vacuum cleaner – for some dirt in the motorhome
10. Anti-smell spray – in case the dog smells a little stronger

Are you interested in the topic camping with dog? Then you will surely like the article Holiday with animals.

Camping equipment: novelties

The equipment you need for a camping trip is of course evolving year after year, and that’s why we have summarized the most important camping news that will make your camping life easier. The best way to find out about the biggest novelties is to visit the tourism fair, travel fairs and camping fairs.

Novelties in camping: Top 5

Our top 5 camping novelties are:

An important novelty are solar showers – we think: The more environmentally friendly, the better! The solar showers have many advantages and are the cheapest camping shower option. Self-inflating mats and self-erecting tents are also new on the market. These new products save you a lot of time and effort and, when packed together, usually take up very little packing space. The Cozybag is a sleeping bag that is also a blanket, jacket and coat. 4 in 1! The space saving one. Very important: comfortable camping furniture . Since you spend a lot of time on your camping chairs when camping, it can only be an advantage if they are comfortable. And last but not least: ultra light camping accessories. When camping, it is always important to take as light accessories with you as possible. With ultra-light accessories, you don’t have to drag as much. Especially in your backpack you can see the difference.

So these are the most important novelties that you will definitely need for your next camping holiday:

• Solar showers: Heat from the sun
• Self-inflating mats and self-assembling tents: a time-saving investment
• The Cozybag: sleeping bag, blanket, jacket and coat
• Comfortable camping furniture – chairs, beds & Co.
• Ultra-light camping accessories – perfect for backpacking.

Cooking, grilling & Cooling – Recipes and important accessories

If you are on a camping holiday, you don’t necessarily have to eat only canned food for weeks on end. For those who can’t really enjoy canned ravioli, there are gas stoves and gas ovens. These can be used to prepare your favourite meal from home without any problems. Of course, you should do some shopping before your holiday or ask about supermarkets in the vicinity. Many campers also use the gas barbecue or cook over the campfire. Here you can prepare for example foil potatoes, bread and meat. In addition, you should always think about a packed lunch on longer trips. For this purpose it is useful to have sausage, cheese, butter and the like in the refrigerator. For those who plan trips to the beach, it can also be useful to take a cool bag with you on your trip. Because in this bag, drinks and snacks can be easily transported, which is very practical if they taste better when cooled. Here are 23 delicious camping recipes for you.

Outdoor knives & Tools – the own toolbox for the motorhome

What do you need an outdoor knife for? An outdoor knife or survival knife can be used to carve wood or to work on fish and meat. With a Survival knife you can cut ropes, which you use occasionally when camping, and you can also cut a simple sandwich in half. When buying an outdoor knife it is important to consider the legal aspects, because a knife can quickly be classified as a weapon if it has a certain blade length. Outdoor knives differ in blade length, shape, robustness and material.

A few practical tools that you should also think of are a screwdriver, a hammer, a small saw, pliers, armour tape and a folding rule. Our tip is to buy a small toolbox, which will always stay in the caravan. So you can’t forget anything and always have everything you need with you.

Brands: Camping accessories – from chassis technology to roof tents

The different brands have specialized in different types of accessories and therefore it is almost impossible to crown the best brand. The most popular brand for automotive technology is Alko, the best heaters are produced by the company Truma and the air conditioners and refrigerators from Dometic are top of the line. The best roof tents are available from Campwerk. We have put together the best brands for various types of camping accessories for you:

• Chassis technology: Alko
• Heaters: Truma
• Air conditioning systems and refrigerators: Dometic
• Satellite system: Oyster
• Solar plants: Büttner
• Power generator: Honda
• Toilet systems: Thetford
• Accessory trade: Fritz Berger
• Two-wheeler: Thule
• Rooftop tents: Campwerk

Entertainment & sports – all important leisure articles

Camping trips are an adventure in themselves – you go on hikes, gather around a campfire or take a trip to the beach. But if you need a moment of peace and quiet or you get bored on a day when the weather is not playing along, it can be handy to be able to do something else. Here are the most important articles for entertainment and sports, which should not be missing on your packing list.

Kids camping articles – entertainment for on the way & on the campsite

Whoever goes on a camping holiday with their children must pack a few extras to make the holiday more enjoyable. For example, for the trip it is very practical to pack a few games, a DVD player, something to paint and books. You can also think of a few game ideas that can be played without having to bring anything along. Good examples are “I see something you don’t see”, Schnick Schnack Schnuck and “I’m packing my suitcase”. These games can also become practical if the children get bored on a camping holiday. For example, if you are sitting around the campfire in the evening and there are no other children around to play, it is also pleasant when the child can keep himself occupied.

What you can also use on a camping holiday is a handcart. During long walks and excursions you can safely store your provisions and all other souvenirs in the wagon, and you don’t have to carry them. Everyone who has children knows that a trip with children needs twice as much luggage as alone. Whether it is a change of clothes, more provisions, games or even a diaper bag for babies – a handcart can be very practical. Small children who cannot walk for long periods of time can also be placed in the handcart and pulled behind them. When camping you should also make sure that the sleeping bag is the right size for the child. If the sleeping bag is too big, the child will freeze quickly. When camping at campsites, you are lucky that there are many other families and that the children can spend time with other children. Friendships are quickly made that can last a lifetime. Different camping holidays are just better suited for children than others. An extreme expedition at minus degrees is just not the right thing for an infant. The different types of tents are also differently suited for children. If you want to know more about family holidays, take a look at our article Holiday with children.

So this is what you should definitely think about when you go camping with children:

• Entertainment for the ride – best games, a DVD player, something to paint and books
• A handcart – great for trips with the whole family
• Change of clothes and provisions – a little more than for adults, because children get dirty more often and whine more when they are hungry
• A sleeping bag for children – make sure you get the right size in any case

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YCZH7xo4cFc

Camping guide & literature – maps, ratings and all important site features

For those who go camping for the first time, it can be very practical to get a camping guide. This will inform you about all the important site features, regulations and the region. In a camping guide you will often find many different campsites listed and rated. The ratings come from various guests and internet reviews. A lot of the information you find in a camping guide would also be found on the internet, but you need time to research it. A camping guide has summarized exactly the information that is important for a camper.

Here, for example, you will also find a list of different campsites, in case you get bored and want to travel further. There are also a number of tips and tricks in a camping guide that can be very useful when travelling. Looking for a place to shop? No problem with a camping guide, because access, location, layout, facilities and quality of facilities, leisure facilities and offers, shopping, prices and special features are all summarised in a camping guide. 

Camping literature can be very important, especially for amateurs and beginners, because here you can find, for example, dishes that can be cooked outdoors, tips and tricks when the tent has to be pitched and information about the place. Also very important is the map which you can find in many camping guides. You don’t always have a good network in the wild and can therefore access Google Maps. Therefore it is good to have a solid map that can show you the way in a difficult situation.

Leisure articles – whether by the sea or on the campsite

Not only when you travel with children do you want to do other things than eat, walk and sleep. That is why it can be useful to take a few leisure items with you. For different destinations you will need different leisure items, of course. For example, if you are going to the sea, it makes sense to bring an air mattress, if you have children, even a bucket, a shovel and in any case a water polo.  For those who plan a holiday on a campsite, it is probably a good idea to take a skipping rope, a ball, a badminton racket and similar props for sports activities so that you can keep yourself busy in your free time.  Whether you’re a big sports fan or would rather bring some board games in case you get bored around the campfire in the evening, leisure items are an absolute must on a camping trip. Not only children but also adults have fun with them and pass the time so well.

Ideas for leisure articles at camping:

• By the sea: air mattress, shovel, bucket, water polo
• On the campsite: skipping rope, ball, badminton racket, board games

Mountain sports – all souvenirs from mountain boots to headlamps

If you are planning to do a mountain tour on your trip, you will of course have a small extra packing list. If you are going to go on this adventure, you have to be prepared in any case. For example, mountain boots are important, they provide good grip during the hike, are usually waterproof and can also get dirty. A pair of hiking or touring trousers or zip-off trousers can also be useful when temperatures change rapidly. The higher you climb, the colder it usually gets, so it’s a good idea to turn your shorts into long trousers by simply zipping them up.

A fleece sweater or jacket can also be very useful, as this type of clothing keeps you particularly warm. A rain jacket is the perfect preparation for bad weather. So if rain, cold and dirt can’t get at you, then you are ready for a mountain tour. Those who plan to climb a mountain should also think about a backpack filled with provisions. This should not be heavy and the space available should be used cleverly. There are a few big brands that sell equipment for mountain tours, but most of the time normal functional clothing is quite sufficient.

A little tip: Make sure you wear sunglasses and sunscreen. On a mountain top, it usually not only gets colder, but the sunlight is also much stronger. Therefore, you should protect your skin and eyes. A compass, a pocket knife, a headlamp or flashlight, a first aid kit and a map can also be useful on any long hike!

Packing list for mountain sports:

1. Mountain boots – for dry feet when it gets wet
2. Hiking or touring pants or zip-off pants – if temperatures change significantly
3. Fleece sweater or fleece jacket – so that you don’t freeze on excursions >/li>
4. Rain jacket – because you cannot always predict the weather
5. Backpack with provisions – for the small and big hunger
6. Sunglasses and sunscreen – because the sun is stronger on mountains than you think
7. Compass – to always find your way around
8. Pocket knife – for carving or working with fish and meat
9. Headlight or flashlight – when the sun goes down, but you still have some way to go
10. First Aid Kit – so that you are prepared for all emergencies
11. Map of the region – so you won’t get lost even if your mobile phone has no network at all

Outdoor fashion – these clothes are needed for camping!

Whether in summer, winter, at festivals or on extreme expeditions – campers have to carry different luggage for different types of trips. You wonder why you should think about outdoor clothing and sunglasses when camping? We have summarized the most important things you need to pack and even explained why you should not forget them.

Outdoor clothing – waterproof, windproof and heat insulating

If you are preparing for a camping trip into nature, you should definitely pack outdoor clothing. There are different types of outdoor clothing, like sports and outdoor clothing, winter clothing, wind and weather clothing, outdoor shoes and outdoor socks. When buying functional clothing, you should always inform yourself about waterproofness, thermal insulation and wind protection.

A good example are for example outdoor functional jackets, because there are several types with different characteristics. There is the softshell jacket, the hardshell jacket, the floating jacket, the down jacket and the two, two and a half and three layer double jacket. These different types keep you warm differently, some are waterproof and others are not. Depending on the excursion, you should be aware of the function of outdoor clothing. For example, if you are travelling to a very windy area and will spend a lot of time outside, as it is common when camping, then you should definitely think about a windbreaker.

The most important features of camping clothing are:

• Watertightness
• Draft shield
• Heat insulation

therefore you should pay attention to the materials and the manufacturer when buying.

Festival equipment – from handcart to jukebox

The essential things to consider when camping at a festival are, for example, getting tickets in advance. Barbecuing may be allowed on most festival grounds, but open fires are usually prohibited. You should also inform yourself about such regulations in advance. When camping, you should always make sure that all the garbage that is produced is taken away, even if the festival area is not an untouched piece of nature. Furthermore you have to take care that there is not too much noise and that you show consideration for the other campers.

If every camping enthusiast informs himself in advance about the regulations on the site, camping at festivals is guaranteed to be a lot of fun. Being woken up in the morning by playing music, having an instant coffee against tiredness and in the evening sitting together and having a barbecue – that is Festival Camping. What can be very practical at a festival is a belly bag for storing valuables. Of course you should also think about your tent and it can also be very practical to take some camping furniture with you to set up a camp with other festival visitors. A handcart is also very practical if you can’t drive your car on the festival area and you have to transport your stuff from the parking lot to the camp. All in all, you should keep in mind that you have to pack a few extras if you want to camp at a festival.

Some extras for the packing list:

• A tent – to have a roof over your head when you sleep
• Camping furniture – for a cosy get-together in the camp >/li>
• A handcart – for the transport of the accessories to the festival area
• A fanny pack – for storing valuables
• A music box – to have a certain atmosphere in the camp in the evening

Sunglasses – important UV rays protection

Whether on the beach in summer or in the mountains in winter – sunglasses are an absolute must-have on a camping trip. Strong sunlight damages our eyes and therefore we should try to limit the risk of damage as much as possible. The sunglasses should ideally go up to the eyebrows and should also protect from lateral radiation to avoid dazzling the wearer or damaging the eyes with UV radiation. Also: How cool do you look when you drive across the country in a caravan with sunglasses?

Camping winter accessories – from winter tyres to functional underwear

If you plan to go camping in winter, or go to areas where temperatures can drop below freezing, you should add a few important things to your packing list. We have picked out 5 important tips for camping in winter:

1. Winter tyres for the vehicle and the caravan – You should definitely fit these before the journey to avoid slipping on black ice.
2. Insulation – The caravan should have a comfortable room temperature even in icy temperatures and therefore be well insulated.
3. Hot water bottle – If the heating fails, this can be a real saviour.
4. Functional underwear and outdoor clothing – they keep you warm even when you sleep.
5. Be careful with power cables, water pipes and heating systems – the cold quickly damages them. Occasionally, a few precautions have to be taken for minus degrees.