Winter camping in Germany: Destinations, accessories and tips – how to make it work!

Winter camping in Germany – Many passionate campers are no longer only drawn to warm regions.
Instead, winter camping or camping in very cold regions also has its appeal.
The picturesque landscapes, the numerous winter sports on offer, such as skiing and snowboarding, and the views of the highest mountains in Germany alone make camping in the snow and cold worthwhile.
With a roof tent or tent trailer, you are super flexible in your travel arrangements and have an enormously large and particularly comfortable, warm sleeping area at your disposal in the evening.
Whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple or with your family – here are our recommendations for destinations, essential accessories and general tips for camping in winter.

Destinations: NRW, Allgäu, Bavaria, North Sea or Baltic Sea?

Where is the best place to camp in winter?
Of course, even in Germany there are some beautiful regions that are ideal for a winter vacation.
The pre-Christmas period in particular is highly recommended, as the wintry feeling is at its best at this time.
When choosing your region for your vacation, you should find out in advance whether there are beautiful landscapes for walks, whether there is a cozy Christmas market and whether you have the opportunity for exciting winter sports.
Whether in NRW, the Allgäu, Bavaria, the North Sea or the Baltic Sea – during the day you can explore the fairytale regions and enjoy the winter charm and then make yourself comfortable with your loved ones at the nearest campsite in the evening.
The sleeping area in the roof tent is not only huge and comfortable, but also definitely withstands the winter temperatures. [sv slug=”camping”] These are the advantages of camping in winter:

• Landscapes with a wintry flair
• Beautiful nature surrounded by ice and snow
• Numerous winter sports offers on the road
• Skiing and snowboarding on mighty mountains
• Vacations are cheaper in the low season
• Comfortable and warm living space in the roof tent
• Heating accessories keep you warm and create a cozy atmosphere

Depending on your interests and preferences, there is a suitable region for you and your winter vacation! Let’s start with our top 5 tips for travel destinations in winter:

NRW: Christmas market in the run-up to Christmas

The most populous federal state in Germany offers big city flair and closeness to nature at the same time.
Discover vast forests and picturesque river landscapes in the Eifel or visit one of the famous sights.
NRW is particularly recommended in winter due to its picturesque landscapes.
Walks in the snow or the smell of roasted almonds at the Christmas market in the run-up to Christmas – cities such as Cologne, Bochum, Dortmund and Bielefeld are definitely recommended for a short break in winter.
Our 2 winter tips in NRW:

• Take a walk along the picturesque landscapes
• Vacations in the run-up to Christmas: Christmas market & co.

This is where NRW is on the map:

Allgäu: Skiing or snowboarding in the mountains

Hikes, picturesque nature, exciting sights and relaxation for the whole family.
All this awaits you in the Allgäu! All of this becomes even more of a highlight in winter.
Forests with the charm of a winter wonderland and skiing on the mightiest mountains, for example in Oberstdorf.
In the evening, you can then take advantage of one of the numerous wellness offers or warm up in the nearest sauna area.
If this sounds like the perfect plan for you, you definitely shouldn’t miss out on winter camping in the Allgäu.
Our 2 winter tips in the Allgäu:

• Skiing on the mightiest mountains
• Wellness and sauna after an eventful day

In the far south – here lies the Allgäu:

Bavaria: Sledging with the whole family

Southern Germany is one of the most popular vacation destinations in Germany.
First and foremost is Bavaria, the largest federal state in terms of area.
In addition to beautiful landscapes, fantastic views and the typical Bavarian atmosphere, the state offers many interesting cities, such as Munich and Nuremberg, as well as a variety of lakes, such as Lake Constance and Lake Hopfensee.
This is the perfect place to relax, hike and explore the region.
In winter, all of this awaits you, but in the best case scenario, covered in a light layer of white snow.
This is not only beautiful to look at, but also offers plenty of opportunities for excursions, sledging, ice skating and, of course, skiing or snowboarding.
It’s not just children who get their money’s worth here.
Our 2 winter tips in Bavaria:

• Sledging on snow-covered mountains
• Ice skating on one of the frozen lakes

And here you will find Bavaria:

Baltic Sea: Visit the piers at sunrise

If you long for relaxation, peace and fresh air by the sea in winter, you don’t have to go too far away.
Whether you’re on vacation on the Baltic Sea islands, such as Usedom or Rügen, the German or Polish part of the Baltic Sea – the popular vacation region has plenty to offer, from picturesque beaches to exciting sights and nature trails.
If you arrive in winter, it may be too cold to sunbathe on the beach or jump into the sea, but walks along the sea are possible at any time.
The many piers, for example, are also worth a visit in winter.
Our 2 winter tips at the Baltic Sea:

• Walks along the sea
• Visit the piers, e.g. at sunrise or sunset

Here you will find the Baltic Sea and its many islands:

North Sea: walks on the empty beach

Even though most people are drawn to the North Sea in summer, it is also highly recommended in winter.
You can’t expect warm sunshine and swimming in the sea is probably too cold, but you can take a leisurely stroll along the beach.
You can expect it to be completely empty and quiet on islands like Sylt, for example, so you can enjoy the peace and quiet of nature to the full.
At best, the dunes are covered in a light layer of snow, so you not only have peace and quiet, but can also enjoy a beautiful view all around.
If you’re traveling with children, the dunes are also great for little sledding adventures!
Wrapped up warm, your children will definitely have the time of their lives.
Our 2 winter tips on the North Sea:

• Beach walk on an empty beach
• Sledging in the dunes

Here you will find the recommended North Sea islands:

[sv slug=”reiseziel”] Whether in NRW, Bavaria or the North and Baltic Seas: what should I definitely pack for winter camping?

Accessories: Don’t forget the heating & suitable clothing

So that you can enjoy your vacation to the fullest even in cold temperatures, wind and rain, you should get some winter-proof things in advance. This definitely includes suitable clothing, winter-proof footwear and heating accessories for the campsite.
Find out more about important winter camping accessories here.

Electric blanket: application and functions

Above all, an electric blanket is a must-have in winter.
Whether in the car while driving, on the mattress in the evening or on the camping bed at the campsite – with an electric blanket you can always snuggle up when you’re cold so that you can make the most of your time in nature.
Take a look at a recommended electric blanket right here in the store: 👉 Heating blanket for roof tents The advantages of an electric blanket:

• Pleasant warmth at the campsite
• Ideal for winter camping
• Can be used as a sleeping pad
• Water-repellent and washable

Take a look at the advantages and functions of the CAMPWERK electric blanket in the following video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qwxxj_hqbP0

Seat heating: function, advantages and tips

Also practical when camping in the cold: a seat heater.
Especially if you are traveling with your own car and a roof tent on top, you should definitely get a seat heater.
It adapts perfectly and individually to your seat and warms your buttocks and back comfortably on the way to your next destination.
It is also ideal as a seat cover for camping chairs, so that you can enjoy your evening at the campsite even in cold temperatures.
This means you can relax and enjoy your vacation in the great outdoors at any time of year and are optimally protected from the cold even in sub-zero temperatures.
You can buy your own heated outdoor seat here: 👉 Heated seat The advantages of a heated seat:

• Warmth on the go in the car and camper
• Can be attached to all seats and camping chairs
• Pleasant warmth even in cold regions
• Healthy for buttocks and back
• Safe and uncomplicated variant
• Easy to use
• Water-repellent and washable

You can find out all about the CAMPWERK heated seat here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9oPuKrMn17w

Gas heating: heat without electricity at the campsite

What is also super helpful, especially on longer trips, is a heater for on the go.
You can set this up in your awning or trailer tent at the campsite, for example, so that the entire living area is filled with a pleasant warmth.
Of course, there is a selection of different heaters that are suitable for you depending on the route, duration, means of transportation and region.
A gas heater is particularly recommended for a vacation with a roof tent.
This is the ideal solution for enjoying the benefits of camping in the great outdoors even in winter. The advantages of gas heating:

• Outstanding heat output
• Flexible use
• Works with gas cartridge
• No electricity is necessary
• Takes up hardly any space
• Easy to store and transport

Weatherproof clothing: Wind and water repellent

Last but not least, you need the right clothing to be prepared for all temperatures and weather conditions.
This definitely includes sturdy, water-repellent footwear, a rain jacket, a thick outdoor jacket, a sweater and winter pants.
Thermal underwear, gloves, a hat and scarf are also essential.
This means you are not only protected for the night, but also optimally protected for all kinds of excursions.
You should pack this clothing in winter:

• Waterproof footwear
• Winter jacket (hardshell jacket)
• Rain jacket
• Winter pants
• Winter sweater
• Thermal underwear
• Gloves
• Hat and scarf

Winter camping in Holland, Switzerland and Austria

Not only Germany has beautiful regions that are ideal for a winter vacation, but Holland, Switzerland and Austria are also recommended for cold temperatures.
So here are some more reading tips:

Discover Austria: ski resorts and wellness

Austria is a paradise for winter sports.
Therefore, a vacation here in winter and in cold temperatures is particularly recommended.
However, the many natural hiking trails on the highest mountains in Austria, wellness offers and winter-decorated towns also make a trip here absolutely worthwhile.
If you are traveling with a roof tent, you can enjoy the idyllic flair well into the evening hours without having to freeze.
Read more about our recommended destinations and top ski resorts for a winter camping vacation in Austria here:

• Winter camping Austria

With the family in Holland: Winter by the sea

A vacation in winter is particularly recommended in Holland.
Even though most people prefer a vacation by the sea in summer, it is also worthwhile in cold temperatures.
The beautiful, long sandy beaches are completely empty, so you can make the most of your time here and enjoy it in peace.
What’s more, the regions radiate winter charm and are perfect for a long walk.
Afterwards, you can warm up in one of the lovely cafés.
Whether Zeeland, Renesse, Noord or Amsterdam – while you can explore the fabulous areas during the day, a cozy place to sleep awaits you at the nearest campsite in the evening.
Read more about top regions in winter here:

• Winter camping Holland

Swiss mountains in winter & vacation in the snow

Switzerland is a paradise for many tourists from all over the world.
This popular destination is not only recommended in summer, but especially in winter.
The best way to travel here is in a roof tent or tent trailer, allowing you to explore the various regions around Grindelwald, Ticino, Davos and Valais with complete flexibility.
Valais is home to the highest mountains in Switzerland, which are ideal for winter sports as well as exploratory tours and also guarantee a picturesque panorama.
Read more about winter camping, recommended regions in Switzerland and essential equipment here:

• Winter camping Switzerland

Have you only been camping in summer or in very warm regions so far?
Then here are our beginner’s tips for winter camping:

Winter camping: 12 tips for beginners

Although winter camping is becoming increasingly popular with young and old alike and definitely impresses with its picturesque landscapes, it can get pretty cold even in a roof tent or tent trailer.
To prevent this cold from ruining your time in the great outdoors and to make the most of your vacation, you should prepare yourself in advance.
Here are our 12 tips for winter camping beginners so that you can do this without any problems:

• Winter camping: 12 tips

The highest mountains in Germany, Austria & Switzerland

If you go camping in winter, you shouldn’t miss out on a few mountains that you can climb in the best case scenario.
Germany, Austria and Switzerland – read all about the highest mountains in each country here:

The highest mountains in Germany

Are you a passionate hiker?
Then you don’t have to go too far away.
There are some impressive mountains in Germany that are just waiting to be climbed.
Of course, there are different levels of difficulty and recommendations for beginners and experienced hikers.
Read more about the top 5 highest mountains in Germany here – from the Wetterwandeck at 2,698 m to the Watzmann at 2,713 m and the Zugspitze at an impressive 2,962 m:

• The highest mountains in Germany

The highest mountains in Austria

Austria has some impressive mountains to offer, which are not only suitable for experienced mountaineers, but are also perfect for family vacations thanks to the numerous different hiking routes.
Once you reach the top, a picturesque natural panorama of the entire region awaits you.
Here you can find out more about the top 5 highest mountains in Austria – from the Großvenediger at 3,657 m to the Weißkugel at 3,738 m and the famous Großglockner at 3,798 m:

• The highest mountains in Austria

The highest mountains in Switzerland

Although many tourists are initially drawn to Austria for hiking, Switzerland also has some mighty mountains to offer, especially in Valais.
The many different hiking routes are suitable for both beginners and experienced mountaineers.
Read all about the top 5 highest mountains in Switzerland here – from the Matterhorn at 4,478 m to the Lyskamm at 4,527 m and the Dufourspitze at 4,634 m:

• The highest mountains in Switzerland