Where would you like to go? Start by choosing your ideal destination: sun and warmth, or snow and winter sports?
And above all, prioritize relaxation over overload: for a first camping trip, don’t plan too much – including the distance to travel.
Switzerland is actually an ideal destination to start with: whether you prefer a tent or a camper van, you’ll find many beautiful and easily accessible campsites for a stress-free departure.
Germany and Austria are also very suitable for beginners. In summer, the Netherlands, Denmark, France, Croatia, Norway, Sweden , and Finland are also excellent options. These countries have good infrastructure, making them perfect for getting started with camper van or van travel.
To avoid stress during your journey, allow enough time for breaks, spontaneous visits, and discoveries. The choice of accommodation also plays a key role: do you want to camp flexibly in a tent or do you prefer the comfort of a camper van?
By the way, for a worry-free start, it might be wise to begin by renting a camper van or a van. That way, you’ll have the basic equipment for your camping holiday and can try out this way of traveling in peace.
If you’re traveling with a tent or a car equipped with a rooftop tent, make sure you have good gear to make your stay as pleasant as possible.
Want even more comfort? Then take a look at the mobile homes or bungalows offered at campsites.
A holiday in Switzerland is a true paradise for camping enthusiasts. With its majestic peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and dense forests, the country is full of picturesque spots to pitch your tent and fully enjoy nature.
Here is a selection of the best places for a camping stay in Switzerland, perfect for recharging in the great outdoors:
There is no general ban on wild camping in Switzerland, but regulations vary by canton and municipality, with some significant restrictions. Here are the main rules:
In most other cantons, wild camping is generally prohibited.
Our advice : always check locally with the municipality or the tourist office. The local police can also be a good point of contact to request permission.
Important conduct rules:
Eco-friendly camping is increasingly popular, as many campers want to enjoy nature without harming it. The idea: enjoy the environment while preserving it. That’s why eco-campsites stand out through sustainable practices, such as the use of environmentally friendly materials, responsible waste management, and biodiversity conservation.
In Switzerland, you’ll find many certified campsites, such as Camping Arolla, Camping des Glaciers, and several TCS campsites labeled ECOCAMPING and Swisstainable Level 2.
In France, Brittany and the Mediterranean coast offer eco-friendly campsites by the sea.
In Italy, the Dolomites and Tuscany are ideal destinations for nature-based and sustainable camping.
As a camper, you can also actively contribute to environmental protection through simple actions: avoid waste, save water, and respect nature.
Moreover, many campsites offer eco-workshops and activities such as hiking or wildlife observation, which enrich the experience and raise awareness about nature conservation.
Our tip : if environmental protection matters to you, choose campsites with labels such as Green Key, the EU Ecolabel, or Swisstainable , which guarantee compliance with strict sustainability standards.
What should you pack for camping? Here’s a practical checklist to help you prepare your gear and your trip – for a stress-free camping holiday.
1. Camping equipment
2. Food and supplies
3. Leisure and activities
4. Safety and health
You live in Switzerland and would like to take out travel insurance? Discover the policies offered by our partner Generali by clicking here .