Camping guide – Camping offers you the opportunity to escape from everyday life and enjoy nature to the full.
Around 9.3 million people enjoy camping (according to the Federal Statistical Office).
It’s a cost-effective alternative to expensive travel and allows you to create unforgettable memories with your family and your dog.
With various travel options, such as a rooftop tent, you can experience nature first-hand.
With good planning and the right equipment, you can experience stress-free and enjoyable camping trips.
You can try out different outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling and swimming while promoting your physical health.
Whether you’re new to camping or already experienced, there’s always something new to learn and discover.
Here you will find everything you need to know about camping.
So pack your camping gear, switch off and experience the beauty of nature – your next camping adventure is waiting for you!
Camping Ratgeber:
Why should you go camping soon?
Camping offers a great way to spend time with the family and the dog and create unforgettable memories.
Camping can also be a cost-effective alternative to more expensive trips, allowing you to set your own itineraries and sleep in special places.
Many campsites also offer activities to add variety to the camping experience.
Nature offers an endless variety of activities and discoveries such as hiking, swimming in a lake or spotting wildlife.
Camping is also a great way to escape the stress of everyday life and relax away from the hustle and bustle and noise of the city.
With numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, swimming and fishing, you can not only promote physical health, but also team spirit and fun.
These are the most important advantages of camping:
- Cost-effective
- Time in nature
- Own itinerary
- Relaxation
- Outdoor activities
Camping beginners: basics also for families & dogs
If you’re just starting out, camping can be a little overwhelming.
So don’t worry, in this article we’ll guide you through all the important steps to ensure you have a successful camping vacation.
For 20 comprehensive tips for beginners, read on here:
Our overview for all campers, whether newcomers or old hands, can be found here:
Basic knowledge: The most important basics
First of all, it is important that you deal with the basics so that you are well prepared for your camping vacation.
This includes the question of water, electricity and gas supplies at the campsite.
Find out in advance what options are available and what costs you may incur.
The issue of sanitary facilities should not be neglected either.
It is best to find out in advance whether the campsite has showers and toilets and what condition they are in.
Another important question concerns waste disposal.
Make sure that you separate and dispose of your waste properly to protect the environment. 
Camping with children: Memories for life
Camping with children can be a great way to experience unforgettable family moments in nature.
To make sure the little ones don’t get bored, you should plan child-friendly activities and choose places with children’s playgrounds.
Safety should not be neglected either.
Remember that the campsite should be childproof and you should have first aid equipment with you.
Consider whether there is a hike or walk near the campsite that is also suitable for children.
Or plan a nature exploration where you can discover plants and animals in the area.
Fishing or picking berries can also be a fun activity.
Camping games are another way to get the kids excited.
Board games and card games can also be a good option, especially if it’s rainy or the sun gets too hot.
You should pay attention to this when camping with children:
- Camping with children = great family moments in nature
- Choose child-friendly activities & playgrounds (less boredom)
- Pay attention to safety (on the campsite & first aid equipment)
- Hiking, nature exploration, fishing, berry picking as activities
- Camping games or board games & card games in bad weather
You can find more detailed tips here:
Also for four-legged family members: camping with a dog
It’s much nicer to go on vacation with all the family members.
If you have a dog, camping in the countryside is a great option.
In contrast to hotels, dogs are usually allowed when camping, but you should always observe the local regulations of the campsite.
Camping with your dog can also be a cost-effective alternative to hotels, as you usually don’t have to pay expensive fees.
To ensure that all campers have a good time, you should also pay attention to the cleanliness of the campsite.
To ensure that your dog is safe while camping, you should always have a lead with you and supervise it during your stay.
It is also important that you have a health check carried out by a vet in advance to ensure that your dog is fit enough for camping.
You should pay attention to these points when you take your dog to the campsite:
- Observe the local regulations of the campsite
- Observe cleanliness on the campsite
- Keep your dog on a lead & supervise it
- Health check at the vet before camping
If you want to know more about what you should bear in mind when traveling with your dog, you’ll find it here:
Planning made easy: Camping organization
Now that you know the basics and what to look out for, it’s time to start planning your vacation.
Good route planning is the be-all and end-all here. Think in advance about which destinations you want to go to and how you want to get there.
The season also plays an important role in planning your camping vacation.
Depending on whether you prefer the high or low season or a specific time of year such as spring, summer, fall or winter, you should plan your itinerary and activities accordingly.
Also bear in mind that it can get colder depending on the season and you may need heating to stay warm. You should definitely keep these tips in mind when organizing your next camping vacation:
- Good route planning is very helpful
- Think in advance about which goals
- Choose the right season (weather)
- Think of a heating/air conditioning system
With these tips and good planning, nothing stands in the way of an unforgettable camping vacation.
So, what are you waiting for?
Organize your next camping trip properly and enjoy the beauty of nature:
Types of camping: from tents to short camping trips
Here you can find out more about the different types of camping, such as tents, motorhomes, glamping and wild camping.
The advantages and disadvantages of each option are described, as well as tips on what to look out for on a camping vacation, camping trip or camping excursion.
You will also find information about the legal requirements for wild camping and the differences between a camping vacation and a camping trip.
Uncomplicated & classic: camping with a tent
Camping is probably the classic and simplest form of camping.
It is best suited to short trips where you want the flexibility to choose your destination and enjoy the fresh air.
Different types of tent offer different advantages, depending on your needs and surroundings.
For more comfortable stays where you still want to be flexible, we recommend a roof tent, which can be mounted on almost any car and offers a comfortable place to sleep in the open air.
A quick summary:
- The classic & simplest form of camping: camping
- Ideal for short trips & flexible in the choice of vacation destination
- Different types of tent offer different advantages
- Roof tent is recommended for changeable stays
Camping is not that complicated, here you will learn everything you need to know about it:
You can read more about the practical roof tent for the whole family here:
Motorhome or camper van: lots of comfort, but big & bulky
Another way to enjoy the freedom of camping is with a motorhome, which is a mobile home on wheels.
In a motorhome or caravan, you generally have plenty of space, comfortable furnishings and stable protection in all weathers.
However, they are also correspondingly heavy and bulky.
Driving a motorhome requires some practice, but is not particularly difficult.
However, be aware that you may need an additional driving license.
The motorhome or caravan in a nutshell:
- Mobile home on wheels
- Lots of space & comfortable furnishings
- Protection in any weather
- BUT: often heavy & bulky
- Driving requires some practice
- Additional driver’s license may be required
You can find everything you need to know about motorhomes here:
Glamping: for luxury vacationers
Glamping stands for luxurious camping in nature with spacious accommodation such as motorhomes, roof tents, tipis or tree houses.
It is popular with tourists who want a certain standard while still respecting the environment.
Glamping also offers a good option for camping beginners to get to know life in the countryside.
What you should know about glamping:
- Glamping = luxurious camping in spacious accommodation
- High standard, yet good for the environment & close to nature
- Good option for beginners (can get to know camping)
- Accommodation: Motorhomes, roof tents, tipis or tree houses
You can read about what you should look out for when glamping here:
Wild camping: for nature lovers
Wild camping is camping in the wild.
It is generally prohibited in Germany, but staying and relaxing in open landscapes and on roads is permitted as long as you do not violate the general rules of conduct of nature conservation.
In other words, you are allowed to relax for a few hours in the great outdoors with a roof tent, but you should not unpack your camping chairs or stay longer.
However, “shorter” and “longer” are not regulated by law.
You should also make sure that you don’t accidentally stand on private property.
Private property is not always super easy to recognize, but you can still be fined if you are there without permission.
So that you have a quick overview of everything:
- Wild camping: Camping in the wild (prohibited in Germany)
- Permitted: stay and recreation on open landscapes and roads
- So: Folding out the roof tent for a short break is actually allowed
- Not permitted: Setting up camping chairs or lingering for longer periods of time
- Beware of accidental trespassing on private property (fines)
Camping vacation: 2 weeks away?
No problem!
A week or two away at the campsite?
A camping vacation is a popular option for spending an exciting time with the family.
You can relax with the whole family.
Find out here what you should look out for on your camping vacation:
Camping trip: would you rather travel longer?
You are usually on the road for longer on a camping trip.
You can also make several stopovers and experience several campsites.
This is known as a road trip.
If you are planning a longer trip, you can find more tips here:
Camping trip: take a quick vacation
The excursion is the opposite of the camping trip.
It is much shorter and is ideal for a weekend or if you want to experience something different outside the campsite.
Here you will find everything you need to know about how best to plan it, which are the most exciting destinations and what you should pay attention to so that the whole family has fun:
No stress beforehand: what should you take with you?
Before you set off, you should also think about what you are going to pack.
Camping packing list: Good planning is everything!
In addition to clothing, camping furniture, cooking utensils and sanitary equipment, you should also think about your important documents.
When you leave Germany, you must always have your identity card or passport with you.
And if you are traveling with children, please also remember their identity documents.
And remember to pack your health insurance card, debit card, sufficient cash and all booking documents.
What else is necessary in terms of accessories follows now:
Camping clothing: well-dressed in any weather
Of course, when camping, you spend most of your time in nature and in the open air.
Whether it’s a short hike or a longer day trip – there can be serious temperature fluctuations, sudden rain or wind at any time.
So that you don’t have to cut your trip short and can still enjoy yourself, you should have the right outdoor clothing with you in advance.
In addition to standard items such as underwear, socks and seasonal clothing, you should always pack weatherproof options.
In addition to a weatherproof rain jacket and outdoor trousers, this also includes suitable footwear so that you are prepared for any weather conditions, whether you are camping in summer or winter.
It can also get very cold at the campsite in the evening, which is why you should pack enough warm clothing and ideally also a heating blanket for the roof tent.
A sun hat and sunglasses will help protect you from the sun.
In a nutshell:
- Weather conditions can change quickly
- Suitable outdoor clothing required
- Customize jacket, trousers & shoes
- Pack weatherproof options
- Take warm clothing for cool evenings
- Sun protection: hat & glasses
You can find more detailed tips and more about storing and drying clothes in the great outdoors here:
Sit, lie down & relax: Comfortable furniture for camping
When it comes to camping furniture, it is important that it is practical and takes up little space.
Folding, inflatable and collapsible furniture is the perfect choice here.
They allow you to make the most of the limited space in your luggage.
Remember that camping furniture should not only be functional, but also durable.
It must be able to withstand the challenges of the outdoors and be easy to clean.
Invest in high-quality camping furniture to ensure it will last you a long time on your adventures.
A camping chair is an essential item for settling down comfortably at the campsite.
Make sure that the chair is lightweight and foldable so that it can be easily transported.
A camping table is also essential for enjoying meals or outdoor activities.
Choose a table that is sturdy and easy to set up.
For ultimate relaxation, camping loungers are a great option.
Whether for sunbathing or reading a book, a foldable lounger allows you to sit back and relax.
For a quick overview, you can find all the tips summarized here:
- Practical, space-saving camping furniture (foldable, inflatable & collapsible)
- Important: Durable & easy-to-clean furniture for the outdoor area
- Camping chair: lightweight, foldable & for comfortable sitting
- Camping table: stable, easy to set up, for meals & activities
- Camping lounger: foldable, for ultimate relaxation & reading
You can find out more about this topic here:
Tip!
You can also find a camping chair andtable in our store.
Food & cooking: What you need at the campsite!
A well-organized camping kitchen will help you cook with ease during your stay.
Remember to plan and pack all the utensils and ingredients you need in advance to ensure a smooth camping cooking experience.
Make sure to choose durable and sturdy tableware that is easy to store and transport.
It should be able to withstand the rigors of camping life.
Camping cooking accessories are crucial for preparing delicious meals on the go.
Here are some important utensils you shouldn’t forget:
| Cutlery: knives, forks, spoons (alternative: spork) | ▢ |
| Pans & pots | ▢ |
| Sharp kitchen knife & chopping board | ▢ |
| Thermo mug to keep drinks hot or cold | ▢ |
| Sieve & a large bowl | ▢ |
| Scissors for opening packaging | ▢ |
So that it doesn’t seem quite so complicated, you can read on here:
Tip!
You can also find a super practical camping kitchen in our store: Aiok’s outdoor kitchen system.
Toilet, shower & co. – sanitary facilities when camping
When it comes to camping sanitary facilities, it is important to pay attention to cleanliness and hygiene.
Pay attention to cleanliness and tidiness, especially at public sanitary facilities on the campsite, but also for yourself.
Use slippers to protect your feet from dirt and bacteria and bring your own towels to ensure that you use clean and hygienic towels.
If there are no fixed showers, you can shower in the great outdoors.
Pay attention to the environment and use biodegradable soap and shampoo.
A camping toilet can be a practical solution to meet your needs, especially if there are no sanitary facilities nearby.
Use self-dissolving toilet paper, which is environmentally friendly.
A shower and toilet tent can offer you privacy if you want to freshen up in nature.
You should follow these tips to ensure your well-being when it comes to sanitary issues:
- Pay attention to cleanliness in public & own sanitary facilities
- Use bath slippers to protect against dirt & bacteria
- Bring your own towels for hygienic use
- Shower in the great outdoors with environmentally friendly products
- Camping toilet as a practical solution without sanitary facilities
- Use self-dissolving toilet paper for nature conservation
You can find further articles here:
And you can find even more practical gadgets in our store:
Camping site selection: tips for Germany & Europe
Deciding on the perfect campsite can be overwhelming, but don’t worry, with a few tips it can be done very quickly.
From opening times and how to get there to the quality of the sanitary facilities and the surroundings – we’ve put together all the important tips for you.
Whether you’re looking for proximity to nature, a relaxing beach vacation or exciting hiking trails, we also have destinations in Germany and Europe on offer for you.
Let’s find the perfect campsite together and create unforgettable memories!
No rocket science: choosing the right campsite
When choosing a campsite, it depends on what you want and what your needs are.
Make sure that you can arrive and depart at the times you want.
Find out about the campsite’s opening hours.
Also check the access to the campsite.
Is it easily accessible and are there enough parking spaces for your vehicle?
You should also check the quality and cleanliness of the campsite beforehand.
This applies to the pitches, but also to the sanitary facilities.
Online reviews are a particularly good way of doing this.
Consider the campsite’s surroundings.
Also check whether the campsite has a restaurant, snack bar or supermarket nearby.
Are you close to a town where you can enjoy activities such as sightseeing or shopping?
Are there hiking trails if you like hiking?
Is there a beach or lake nearby for water sports or relaxation?
If you’re traveling with children, you can check to see if the campsite has children’s playgrounds or other child-friendly facilities.
You should pay attention to these things when choosing the right campsite:
- Check the opening hours & directions to the campsite
- Pay attention to the cleanliness of the sanitary facilities & pitches
- Pay attention to the surroundings (restaurant, supermarket, city & nature)
- Consider whether the campsite is child-friendly
To help you choose the right campsite, you can read on here:
Where to go?
Tips for exciting travel destinations
But where is your dream campsite?
Here you will find tips for great destinations in Germany and Europe.
Included are tips for camping by the sea, by the lake or near fantastic hiking trails.
Sport, relaxation & action: activities for real campers
Just sitting at the campsite gets boring in the long run.
You can usually experience lots of great things on vacation if you are looking for an activity.
Here you will find tips from fishing to winter sports.
Whether it’s on the water or hiking in the mountains, no matter what type of person you are, you’re guaranteed to find something here:
