Cost-effective camping vacations remain accessible in Germany: Hesse and Thuringia offer the lowest camping rates
Affordable Camping in Germany: Your Ultimate Guide
Camping Dreams, Still Within Reach
Discover the Budget-Friendly Camping Destinations in Germany
Getting ready for a road trip this summer? You're not alone! Thousands of campervan enthusiasts are gearing up for a European camping adventure. With soaring prices everywhere, it's essential to know where it's still economical to spend the night. Luckily, the ADAC camping portal, PiNCAMP, has crunched the numbers for us!
Price Uptick, Yet Manageable
Despite the rising costs, camping holidays are remaining affordable this year. According to PiNCAMP's Price Analysis 2025, overnight charges for a three-member camper family have increased, on average, by about 6% throughout Europe. However, there are substantial variations among the primary European holiday destinations. While Germany charges around €40 and Sweden €43 per night, campers in Italy pay a whopping €66, and in Croatia, they shell out €68.
When it comes to Germany, Thuringia takes the crown as the most budget-friendly at €33 per night, followed by its neighbor, Hesse, at €37. "Camping trips in Hesse and Thuringia are not just economically appealing, but also brimming with tourist attractions," explicates Andrea Schumacher-Fichtner, the Head of Corporate Communications and Tourism at ADAC Hessen-Thuringia. To ignite your campervan short trips in Hesse and Thuringia, check out the ADAC website: adac.de/hth-campingtouren
Penny-Pinching Pointers
Ready to save some cash even on your camping vacation? Here are some nifty tips to help you do so:
- Advance Booking: During peak season, early booking is your best bet. On pincamp.de, you can search for campsites with availability and compare deals. Once you've found your perfect match, you can book it online.
- Pitch Sites: For those who prefer cost-effective solutions, consider staying on pitch sites instead of campsites. These basic parking spots for motorhomes usually offer only electrical connection, water, and waste disposal facilities, making them ideal for a quick stopover.
- Off-Peak Season: Traveling outside the school holidays can save you around a third on your camping costs compared to peak season rates.
- ADAC Campcard: ADAC Campcard holders can get discounts of up to 50% on overnight charges. The ADAC Campcard comes free with the ADAC camping and pitch guides as well as the ADAC camping and pitch app.
For route advice, the ADAC pitch guide, and assistance with booking motorhome holidays, connect with your local ADAC or visit adacreisen.de online.
Press Contact
Julia HeunT +49 69 66 07 85 09[email protected]
Information on data protection: www.adac.de/hth-infopflicht
NOTE: When camping in Germany, ensure you comply with local laws and regulations. Some regions restrict free camping due to environmental concerns.
Additional Tips for Affordable Camping in Germany:
- Bavaria: Its scenic landscapes make Bavaria a popular choice for camping. Campsites like See Camping Günztal in Breitenthal, Günzburg, offer budget-friendly facilities, starting from around £19.38 per night[4].
- Baden-Württemberg: This region, home to the Black Forest, offers serene camping experiences. Waldcamping Birkendorf near Ühlingen-Birkendorf is a family-friendly, wallet-friendly site with rates starting from approximately $30.37 per night[1].
- Booking Platforms: Websites like Pitchup.com and Booking.com offer a variety of budget-friendly campsites across Germany. These platforms often provide discounts or low deposits[1][3].
- Free Camping Guides: While Germany has strict regulations regarding free camping, resources like Freecampsites.net can help identify low-cost or free dispersed camping options in other regions, though these may not be applicable in Germany due to local laws[5].
- Local Camping Associations: Joining local camping associations or searching for camping clubs may provide access to member-only discounts or special deals on campsites.
Embracing Outdoor-Living and Home-and-Garden Vibes
As you explore the affordable camping destinations in Germany, immersing yourself in the local lifestyle is a must. Whether you're setting up camp in picturesque Bavaria or the serene Baden-Württemberg region, you'll find the perfect blend of outdoor-living and home-and-garden charm in these camping spots. From charming woodland campsites like Waldcamping Birkendorf to lakefront camping areas like See Camping Günztal, each location offers a unique home-and-garden inspired atmosphere for your camping trip.
