Are you dreaming of exploring Europe in a campervan but unsure where to start? You’re not alone. Taking your campervan across Europe opens up a world of opportunity — from breathtaking mountain passes to serene lakeside stopovers — but it also involves a fair bit of planning, especially if it’s your first time.
In this guide, we break down the essential things you need to know to prepare for your European road trip. From border regulations and toll systems to route planning, camper-friendly countries and gear tips, this is your go-to handbook for a smooth, enjoyable, and legally compliant adventure.
1. Choosing the Right Campervan for the Job
Before setting off, it’s vital to select a campervan that meets both your lifestyle and travel requirements.
- Vehicle Size & Layout: Consider how many people you’re travelling with, and what layout will offer enough space without making narrow European roads a headache. A long wheelbase van offers room to stretch out, but may require more planning for parking and tight turns.
- Fuel Type: Diesel remains common in Europe, but be sure your vehicle is ULEZ-compliant where required. LPG systems can be cheaper to run but check the refill availability across your route.
- Weight Restrictions: Most countries have a 3.5-tonne limit for standard driving licences. Make sure your van (loaded) doesn’t exceed this unless you have the appropriate license.
👉 Looking for a well-balanced, off-grid-ready van for European travel? Explore our Bhode NOMAD layout — built for families or adventurous couples, with clever storage, five belted seats, solar power, and everything you need to roam comfortably across the continent.
2. Understand Cross-Border Rules & Legal Requirements
Europe’s open borders can make it feel like a breeze — until you forget the paperwork. Here’s what to watch out for:
Documentation:
- Passport (valid for at least six months)
- Vehicle V5C (logbook)
- International Driving Permit (if required)
- European Breakdown Cover and Insurance Certificate
- VE103 form if you’re driving a leased or hired van
Essential Equipment for Driving in Europe:
- Headlamp Beam Deflectors: UK headlights dip left — use deflector stickers to avoid dazzling oncoming traffic.
- UK Sticker: Required if your number plate doesn’t already include the UK identifier with a Union Jack.
- LPG Sticker: If your camper uses LPG for heating or cooking, an external LPG sticker may be required, especially on ferries or in tunnels.
- Safety Kit (varies by country): Includes hi-vis jackets for all passengers, warning triangle, spare bulbs, first aid kit, and in some places (e.g. France) a breathalyser kit.
Toll Roads & Emissions Zones:
- France: Expect around €7–€14 per 100 km. A journey from Mulhouse to Spain can cost about €110.
- Italy: Around €9 per 100 km. Milan to Rome (563 km) is approx. €44.40.
- Spain: Tolls vary by route; check online before travelling.
- Germany: Most autobahns are toll-free for vehicles under 3.5 tonnes.
Use toll calculators like TollGuru to estimate your route-specific costs.
Low Emission Zones:
- Germany, Belgium, France, and the Netherlands have specific clean air stickers or registrations. Apply in advance.
Speed Limits by Country:
- France: 80–130 km/h depending on conditions
- Germany: No general limit (recommended 130 km/h)
- Italy: 90–130 km/h, lower in poor weather
3. Route Planning: Flexibility with Structure
You don’t need a rigid itinerary, but a loose framework helps you stay organised and avoid stress.
- Map Must-Sees: Identify a handful of anchor stops (e.g. Lake Annecy, Black Forest, Dolomites) and work your way between them.
- Use Park4Night or Searchforsites: These apps are ideal for finding free and paid overnight spots, many of which are campervan-friendly.
- Driving Times: Aim for no more than 2–3 hours of driving per day if travelling with family. Make the journey part of the holiday, not just the destination.
4. Border Crossings, Customs & Driving Behaviour
Although most of Europe is within the Schengen Zone, some basic precautions still apply:
Check Entry Rules: Post-Brexit, UK citizens can only stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
Driving Culture & Safety:
- France: Calm and courteous — probably the most “British” in feel. Good signage and reliable infrastructure.
- Spain: Friendly drivers but city traffic can be unpredictable. Outside cities, it’s relaxed.
- Germany: Exceptionally disciplined. Autobahns can feel daunting due to high-speed lanes, but they are very safe.
- Italy: Fast-paced and occasionally chaotic, especially in urban areas. Rural drivers may seem impulsive but generally patient.
- Portugal: Polite, though sudden manoeuvres are common. Good roads, but expect roundabouts everywhere.
5. Water Safety and Onboard Hygiene
Tap water quality across Europe is generally high, but varies by country:
- Safe to Drink: Germany, France, Austria, Switzerland, Netherlands
- Safe but Locals Avoid It: Spain, Portugal, Italy – particularly in rural areas, many travellers opt for filtered or bottled water.
💧 That’s why every Bhode NOMAD van includes a built-in water filter and softener — ideal for families and anyone wanting to reduce plastic and have peace of mind. Whether you’re topping up at a campsite, an Aire, or a roadside tap, you’ll always have safe, soft water for cooking, drinking, and showering.
6. Off-Grid Living Essentials
Travelling off-grid through Europe is one of the big appeals of van life. Here’s how to do it comfortably:
Water Access: Fill up regularly — look out for Aires, motorway service areas, and campsites with tap access.
Power Solutions:
- Solar Panels: Ideal in sunnier regions like Spain and Italy.
- DC-DC Chargers: Recharge your leisure battery while driving.
- EHU (Electric Hook-Up): Still useful at campsites — always carry a hookup cable and EU adapter.
Wi-Fi & Connectivity:
- Portable Wi-Fi devices and local SIM cards are reliable options.
- Offline maps like Maps.me or downloading Google Maps in advance is a great backup.
7. Wild Camping Laws & Campervan-Friendliness
Wild camping laws vary widely:
Permissive:
- Sweden, Norway, Finland: “Right to Roam” laws allow wild camping with some restrictions.
Prohibited or Strictly Controlled:
- Netherlands, Luxembourg, Switzerland: Wild camping is generally illegal and can incur fines.
Conditional:
- Portugal: Up to 48 hours allowed in authorised vehicles, outside of protected areas.
Campervan Friendliness by Country:
- Germany: Excellent network of stellplätze (camper stops).
- France: Aires de Services offer extensive coverage.
- Spain: Growing support for motorhomes, but wild camping laws are tighter.
8. Campsite Costs with Hook-Up (2025 Averages)
- Germany: €20–32/night (2 adults + electric)
- France: Aires are often free or cost €10–20
- Spain: €25–47/night depending on region and season
Tip: Book ahead in high season and near tourist hotspots.
9. Must-Have Kit List
- Travel documents & EU vehicle safety kit
- First aid kit, torch, and warning triangle
- Headlamp deflectors, UK sticker, LPG sticker
- Leveling ramps and chocks
- Power bank, USB adaptors, 12V chargers
- Lightweight camping chairs and fold-out table
- Kitchen basics (pot, pan, collapsible bowl, cutlery)
- Refillable water bottles and onboard water filter
10. Final Tips for First-Time Vanlifers
- Pack Light but Smart: Use soft bags, collapsible storage, and multi-purpose items.
- Language Basics: A few key phrases in local languages go a long way.
- Check Local Laws: Wild camping rules vary. In Spain and Italy it’s often tolerated; in Switzerland and Croatia, it’s heavily restricted.
- Plan for Emergencies: Save local breakdown numbers and check your travel insurance covers vehicle and personal belongings.
Ready to Hit the Road?
Exploring Europe by campervan can be life-changing — and with a little planning, it doesn’t need to be stressful. At Bhode Vans, we help first-time vanlifers create bespoke conversions that are both beautiful and practical for life on the road.
🚐 Thinking about your own van? Bhode NOMAD is our signature model for European off-grid travel — designed with families in mind and kitted out for adventure, complete with water filtration, solar setup, and a comfortable indoor shower.
👉 Get in touch to start your journey
