First camping trip – what should I bring?

Going on a camping holiday in Europe? Here's everything you need to know before you go

Camping holidays have become a popular choice for many Danes who want a more flexible and nature-friendly holiday – without compromising on comfort. With so many modern campsites across Europe, some of which are more reminiscent of luxury holiday parks than classic campsites, there are plenty of options to find something that suits your needs. But how do you best prepare? What to bring and what to leave at home? And last but not least: How do you choose the right campsite? Read on to find the answers.

Choose your holiday type: tent, glamping or luxury cabin?

Before you start making a packing list, it's important to consider how you want to stay on your holiday. Do you want a classic holiday with your own caravan or tent? Or do you dream of a comfortable mobile home with real beds, bathroom and kitchen? If you've never been camping before, you can book a mobile home or glamping tent, which will be ready for you upon arrival. You don't have to buy equipment or pack your car to the brim – and you get a gentle introduction to camping life with all the comforts at your fingertips.

First things first: transportation and destination

Consider how you prefer to travel. Car rentals offer flexibility and the ability to take extras with you – especially if you’re camping with your own gear. However, if you’ve booked a mobile home or glamping tent, it may be easier to fly and rent a car at your destination. It’s also important to consider whether you’re camping with children – if so, you’ll know that packing toys and pool accessories will also take up a lot of your holiday luggage. It’s therefore worth considering how much space you’ll need for these things. Next step: Where do you want to go? Do you want beach and sun in Croatia or Italy? Do you prefer picturesque nature by a lake in Austria? Or perhaps a combination of sightseeing and relaxation? Once you know what you want, it’s easier to choose the right campsite.

How to choose the perfect campsite

It's worth taking a little extra time to find the right space. Here are some things to consider:

• What facilities do you need? Swimming pool, kids club, water park, wellness, sports fields?
• Where would you like to live? Do you enjoy nature and tranquility - or would you like to be close to the city and attractions?
• Are you traveling with children? Most campsites in Europe are dedicated to families with children, where you don't have to worry about safety or whether the children will get bored. The campsites are full of activities for children of all ages – from toddlers to teenagers. Analyze what options a campsite offers and choose the best solution for you.
• Are you traveling with your dog? Check whether the campsite and accommodation type allow pets. Most campsites allow pets and even have pet-friendly facilities such as special beaches, swimming pools and walking paths. Also, keep in mind that there is usually an additional fee for a pet.
• What are the reviews of the accommodation? The experiences of previous guests provide a realistic picture of the place. It is therefore worth reading reviews on popular portals or participating in groups on forums.
• Are there any additional costs? Be aware of the tourist tax, but there may also be other fees, such as for renting bed linen or using air conditioning.
• What can you do in the area? Are there excursions, attractions or good hiking trails nearby? This will probably be an important part of your vacation!

What should you bring with you?

The list of things you need to pack will of course depend on your type of accommodation. If you have rented a mobile home or a glamping tent, most of the things are already there. In both types of accommodation, you literally have everything: a fully equipped kitchen and bedrooms with comfortable beds. But no matter what, there are a few things you should always bring with you:

• Towels for the whole family (sometimes campsites offer the option to rent them, so it's worth checking before you go)
• Sunscreen (preferably SPF 50) and mosquito repellent
• Travel kit with painkillers, first aid kit and stomach/allergy medicine
• Your own bed linen (if not included in the price)

If you drive yourself, it's a good idea to bring tools, a spare tire, and a jack – just in case.

And what should you leave at home?

You don't need to fill your car with food and water – supermarkets in Europe have most of it, and the prices are often the same as in Denmark. Instead, consider trying local foods. It's part of the experience! And remember: the less you bring with you, the easier the trip will be.

First time camping? Make it easy for yourself

If you've never camped before, there's no need to invest in expensive equipment. A ready-made and fully equipped glamping tent or mobile home will give you a comfortable start and let you get a feel for whether a camping holiday is for you. If you like camping, you might want to consider buying the caravan of your dreams – after all, it will be an investment for many years to come!

Are you ready for an adventure?

Whether you're travelling with the whole family, with friends or just want some peace and quiet in nature, you can find a camping holiday that suits you. With good preparation, a little research and a good list of things to pack, you're well on your way to a fantastic holiday in the great outdoors. If you're looking for proven campsites, it's worth checking out offers from tour operators who have been in the business for many years. One of them is Sunnycamp, which specializes in luxury campsites for families with children. At Sunnycamp you will find, for example, modern mobile homes and glamping tents.

Have a good trip and enjoy camping!