France is the most visited country in the whole world, did you know? And of course there’s a reason for that, whether it’s the famous city of Paris with its Eiffel Tower or the Basilica of Notre Dame in Provence. However, if you are looking for a totally different trip, with contact with nature to gain distinct experiences and want to be at the mercy of the fauna and flora that the country offers, camping is a great viable option for you who are looking to get out of everyday comfort and have a totally different trip.
However, there are important tips and tricks that can save your camping days, even more so if you’re new to camping in the bush. Whether you want a more modern place, with a swimming pool and even restaurants nearby, there are campsites ideal for you; however, if you want to get away from the world, having contact only with the forest and jungle, there are also several options for you. You should also know the local rules, the services that the parks offer and if the place is ideal for you!
In view of this, check out France Camping: tips and tricks for good camping in France which will give you a helping hand!
TRICKS AND TIPS FOR CAMPING IN FRANCE
Who knows, you may be travelling to France and want to go camping, so by no means miss out on some tips and tricks totally geared towards camping in France. This way, you’ll have a base to start your planning and be prepared for a new and exciting adventure!
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After all, you need to be up for any challenges, whether they come from new realities that you will be experiencing. Choosing to go camping on holiday is a radical change, but one that can easily win you over and make you repeat the dose!
Check now some important information that will help you in your choice, besides giving you a way to start the itinerary of your trip:
- Research and choose a type of camping ideal for you, so that you have fun and a good experience on the trip. Be the form of camping and which structure more convinces you. Never go for a place that you dislike or that you notoriously would not like to visit.
- Don’t forget to find out what’s around your campsite. If you want it to have restaurants nearby, bars or even a village, carry out thorough research. Now, if you want to get away from it all, know the site rules and whether wild camping is allowed in the desired area.
- Always check the guidelines of the place where you intend to stay, because there are places that do not allow camping activities or that do not allow certain utensils, objects or even domestic animals.
- Make a complete list of the items you intend to take, this way, you do not run the risk of forgetting them and experiencing problems because of that.
- Take clothes according to the season: if it is a warm day, it is recommended to wear light clothes and thinner fabrics, and of course, on cold days, you should dress warmly. However, take extra changes of both types of clothes, because the weather can change drastically.
- If it is possible, take with you food and some ready-made or packaged food, so that you do not depend only on local restaurants. This way it will be much more economical.
- Keep in mind that certain bathing costumes are forbidden in France, all for hygiene reasons. Therefore, check the local rules to know which clothes to bring.
- Be aware that wild camping is not officially allowed anywhere! So look for parks that are geared towards camping activities or destinations that allow camping on site.
- The currency chosen in French parks is the euro (€).
- Be aware that the Universal European Emergency Number is 112, so you can contact the police, fire and ambulance services.
- Not all camping areas offer free Wi-Fi, and depending, you must pay or even go without.
- Always buy your bookings in advance, compare prices and see which is more affordable for you.
- If you want to take your four-legged friend with you, it is very easy to find camps in France that allow pets.
Only a few tips have been mentioned in this list, if you want more information, go to: https://www.campsited.com/en/blog/camping-in-france-advice-tips/ which will certainly help and educate you even more!
TYPES OF CAMPSITES AND STRUCTURES FOR CAMPING IN FRANCE
Can you tell what type of camping is ideal for you? If you want to go camping, you should keep in mind what is combinative for you and for those who will go with you, in case you want to have other people by your side. Learn about the types of camping that exist, so that this way, you will not regret your choice and you will be prepared for what you will do during your camping holiday in France; making the moment unique and unforgettable.
Among the types of camping, we can divide them into three: Wild camping; free camping and organised camping.
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Wild camping is for those who want to get away from traffic, cities, technology and the modern world, enjoying the contact with nature. Without toilets, plugs and restaurants, just you, the forest and what it has to offer. That is why it is extremely important that you take a backpack with you, having only the essentials with you, avoiding future pain in your back. Enjoy the forest, explore the surroundings and take plenty of insect repellent in the summer to ward off mosquitoes!
Free Camping are generally campsites on the edge of lakes and rivers, having little infrastructure. However, there are daily fees to stay at the site, in view that it offers toilets and even on-site supervision. The advice is that you should always review the place, checking if you like it and if all the services are enough. Generally the prices are very affordable and it is a great option for you who want to save money.
Finally, Organized Camping is ideal for those who want not only comfort, but also adventures in a new and unknown place. They offer greater infrastructure, with toilets, restaurants nearby, bars, various activities such as canoeing, games, and even swimming pools in some parks. Clearly they are more expensive, but worth it if you are looking for a great opportunity and experience!
Now, find out about the types of structures for France camping! After all, camping is not just about sleeping bags or tents, there are other options available that you can enjoy a lot more!
- Motor Home or Trailer: camping with a motor home or trailer is very comfortable, you will have access to many more utensils and you will be able to park in roads that please you, obviously only if the camping activity is allowed in the place. Besides, it generates a lot of autonomy for campers to move to different places. You may have expenses with gasoline, but travelling in a car and camping at night can please you a lot.
- Tent: there are tents of all types, sizes and prices everywhere. Camping in a tent is a classic that can generate good memories for you and with technical knowledge, you gain the freedom to get anywhere your feet want. Don’t forget to take an air mattress, pillows to rest your head on and warm blankets.
- Bivouac: if you want to sleep looking at the stars, feeling the breeze of the wind on your face, Bivouac will completely win you over. It is a good choice for those who do not want to carry a lot of equipment and want to sleep in the open air, being at the mercy of nature. Although it may seem a bit risky, many people really enjoy this kind of camping!
Now that you have the basic knowledge, all that remains is to choose the type and structure of camping that suits you best!
BASIC PHRASES.
Being in French territory, you should know that most of the population in France speaks English, but in places further away from the city, like the camping parks, it is very likely that few have contact with such language. One important tip is that you should know some basic phrases in French and their pronunciation, in case there is not only a problem, but maybe you can make new friends or ask questions about the place.
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So be sure to check out a list of basic phrases that can really save your skin!
- Hello: Bonjour.
- Goodbye: Au revoir.
- Thank you very much: Merci (beaucoup).
- Please : s’il vous plaît.
- I would like to…: Je voudrais…
- A baguette, please: une baguette s’il vous plaît.
- Milk: du lait
- Count to 10: Un, deux, trois, quatre, cinq, seis, sept, huit, neuf, dix.
- The swimming pool: la piscine.
- The restaurant: le restaurant.
- The bathrooms: les toalete.
- Oui: yes.
- Non: No.
- S’il vous plaît ou s’il te plaît (for the intimate ones): please.
- Excusez-moi: Excuse me.
- Très bien: Very good.
- Et vous ?: And you?
- Je vous en prie : dispose.
- De rien: you’re welcome.
BEST TIME FOR CAMPING IN FRANCE
Planning a trip to France to go camping, but have no idea which period is best? Or which would be the most economical? Because it is a different place from what we are used to, many of the times we have no idea which are the ideal months or seasons to travel and camp in the place, we can even get confused or lost in this area. If you are looking for some tips, you are in the right topic, check now the best periods to go camping in France.
It is clear that summer, which runs from June to August, is the most popular time to visit, as well as being warm and sunny. Temperatures average 23-26° C, which makes it possible for you to take advantage of the sun’s rays, a few gusts of wind and a good warmth for swimming, whether in a pool, lake or river. However, be aware that if you plan to camp at higher altitudes, such as the Alps, it is likely that even though it is summer, there will be hints of rain, so be prepared for this situation.
But if you want to escape the convenient and want to travel during the winter period, which is from December to January, don’t forget to bring extra blankets, heater, thermal clothes and warm water at night! At the end of the day, the important thing is that you enjoy your trip, whether it’s hot or cold!
SOME CAMPING SITES IN FRANCE.
Medieval castles, stone huts and the much infamous municipal parks, there is no shortage of options, making the task of finding an ideal camping area for you extremely easy. There are over 11,000 campsites located across France that offer a variety of services and cater for all budgets and tastes.
So check out some of the camping spots in France and decide which one suits you best!
- Alpin D’Home/Cocon: located in the Les Orres ski area in the Alps, which offers a collection of luxury tents that give direct access to the ski slope. Prices range from $334.28 to $510.22. The venue itself is perfect for couples, features a good location and general service provision. Link to Alpin D’Home’s location on Google maps.
- Rives Nature: if you want a small wooden house by the lake or in the middle of some trees, this is a great option for you, who can also pitch a tent outside to have the full experience. The place offers free Wi-Fi, a pool and is wheelchair accessible, with the daily rate ranging from $70.38 to $126.68. Link to Rives Nature’s location on Google Map.
- Manzac Ferme: the campsite on the banks of the river offers peace and plenty of tranquillity, considered ideal for children and there is parking, free Wi-Fi and swimming pool included in its services. Link for the location of Manzac Ferme on Google Maps.
- Yelloh! Village Le Brasilia: is an island surrounded by its beautiful beach in the Mediterranean, the local campsite is 5 star with the right to take your pet, shops and banks nearby, having incredibly friendly staff. Daily rates start at €26.90 ($30.39). Link to the location of Yelloh! Village Le Brasilia on Google Maps.
- Camping Nature Parc l’Ardéchois: if you want to go hiking, this is a viable possibility for you! The place maintains a large nature reserve, exuding its incredibly charming beauty and if you are looking for a free camping site, here lies this park! Link to the location of Camping Nature Parc l’Ardéchois on Google Maps.
- Camping Le Luberon: with excellent service facilities, the campsite has different types of rentals and pitches for you to sleep in. There are always activities in the summer for adults, as well as access to the two swimming pools for adults and one pool for children. A great place for sightseeing and excellent when it comes to relaxing. The daily rate is €25.98 ($29.35); quite an affordable price, isn’t it? Link to the official Camping Le Luberon website: https://www.campingleluberon.com/
- Castel Camping L’Anse du Brick: a wonderful 5 star campsite that has direct access to the beach. Considered a family resort with a very peaceful atmosphere. There is even a fitness room for the adults! Don’t miss the opportunity to do lots of walking and swimming. The daily rate is €30 ($33.89). Link for the location of Castel Camping L’Anse du Brick on Google Maps.
- Camping Cevennes-provence: you have the decision to rent empty pitches to pitch your tents or chalets in these natural surroundings, which were surrounded by mountains. A simple, relaxing and quiet place to provide you with a holiday full of peace. The daily rate is €22.30 ($25.19). Finally, check out the link to Camping Cevennes-provence’s location on Google Maps.
- Camping La Fortinerie: less than half an hour from the Loire River, the camping site has a barbecue area and even a well-equipped kitchen. The site is surrounded by fields and forests, being a rural region. There are supermarkets and butchers nearby and pets are welcome. The daily rate is from €25 ($28.24), Camping La Fortinerie location on Google Maps.
- Cabanes Chartreuse Insolite: spa, pool, parking and breakfast included. Is there anything better than that? Not only that, but entitled to internet, bars, restaurants, room service and activities such as tennis and boutique products. A rustic wooden hut surrounded by trees, isolated from the city. The daily rate is €160 ($180.75). Link to Cabanes Chartreuse Insolite’s location on Google Maps.
As mentioned above, there is no shortage of options, so if none of these places appeal to you, take a look at both sites that recommend the best parks for camping: https://coolcamping.com/campsites/europe/france
CHECKLIST OF WHAT TO BRING TO THE FLAT
Don’t forget to check your list to see if all the necessary items are in your bag or in the boot of your car. So, here’s some basic help for you to check all the items in your suitcase:
- Tent.
- Sleeping bag.
- Thermal insulator.
- Torch.
- First aid kit.
- Cargo backpack.
- Map of the region.
- Personal items (clothes, shoes and accessories).
- Repellent and sunscreen.
- Hygiene products.
- Plastic bags.
- Water filter.
- Pocket knife and lighter.
- Stove.
- Plate, cutlery and glass.
- Pan.
Take everything you need for your stay with nature, so that no problems occur, nor that you have a bad experience. Before you travel, check that everything is in place and then, enjoy!
NOW TRAVEL TO FRANCE AND SET UP CAMP!
Big tent, a warm blanket, melted marshmallows and a peaceful environment; what does it take to get through it? Obviously there’s nothing better than playing guitar by the campfire, chatting on a camp chair while drinking a beer and hiking during the sunny morning. A great adventure awaits you in France, so don’t even think twice about taking a camping holiday on European territory and experiencing these sequences of memorable moments and activities!
Buy your sleeping bag and passports for France, remember to check the rules of the camping site you will be visiting, practise a few French words, buy your bookings in advance and travel at ideal times. It’s clear that many French people love camping and you venturing among them will be a unique thing. Know that the campsites are looking forward to your visit!
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