Camping car, tout savoir to discover France in 2025

Visit motorhome has become an essential contemporary traveller, offering freedom and autonomy. Whether you opt for a van, a profile or an integral, this type of travel is becoming increasingly popular. 

Motorhome definition and overview

The term motorhomein common usage in France, refers to a habitable motor vehicle, sometimes called a "autocaravane" in official terminology.. These include :

• Fitted van (or van, class B): discreet, easy to handle, often without a permanent bed.

• Profile (class B+): a balance between comfort and aerodynamics.

• Capucine The cabin's sleeping area is ideal for families.

• Intégral (class A): integrated chassis, the most luxurious and spacious.

Visit vanlife and the car camping embody a current trend: transforming a vehicle into a mobile refuge, often low-cost and personalized, which is winning over a young, exploratory public.

Itineraries and travel arrangements in France with a motorhome

Service areas

France has more than 4,000 service bays to drain, refill and land. Some are free, others charge.

Useful applications

Park4Night, iOverlander, France Passion (2,200 farms offer stopovers at winegrowers'/agriculturists') make it easy to find the right stopovers..

Season and eco-responsibility

Comply with local regulations and principles Leave No Trace The seasons vary from region to region (high season July-August).

Estimated budgets

• Rental: ~69 €/night via Roadsurfer.

• Fuel, tolls, campsites, insurance (Crit'Air sticker): plan your overall budget.

• Purchase vs. traditional caravanning: often more flexible, but to be amortized over the long term.

Maintenance, driving and safety

• Oil changes, tires, heating, winter insulation: to be planned regularly.

• Compulsory equipment: vests, triangle, gas detector, Crit'Air sticker.

• Driving: pay attention to height/dimensions, prefer automatic gearbox for long journeys.

Recommended destinations and itineraries

• Itineraries headlights Brittany, Normandy, Baie de Somme, Alps.

• Events 2025 : 81ᵉ D-Day commemoration, festivals in Landes... .

• Areas to discover France Passion stopovers, verdant sites in Wallonia or Baie de Somme.

Motorhome rental: the complete guide to choosing the right motorhome

Motorhome rental has become a very popular solution for road-tripping without investing in a vehicle. Seductive for its flexibility, it allows you to try out different models (profile, van, gondola...) with a minimum of financial commitment. Here's everything you need to know to rent a motorhome successfully.

Why rent?

Renting a motorhome offers several advantages:

• Freedom Choose duration, departure and return points, itinerary.

• Controlled budget without purchase and maintenance costs.

• Discovery : test a model before buying.

France's leading platforms

1. Yescapa : leader in private hire with over 14,000 vehicles, all-risk insurance included from €42/day .

2. Wikicampers a wide range of products (motorhomes, vans, panel vans) and security comparable to Yescapa.

3. Campanda, Hapee and Outdoorsy : solid alternatives with good European coverage.

4. Indie Campers and CamperDays professional, more travel-oriented platforms throughout Europe and internationally .

5. Hertz - Three Suns national network with new vehicles, assistance and unlimited mileage in season.

Pro and anti rental between individuals and professionals

Tips for a successful motorhome rental

• Anticipate your booking July-August are filling up fast.

• Compare prices on several platforms.

• Check the equipment included km, insurance, complete camper van.

• Customer literature Read the reviews, especially on the condition of the vehicle.

• Useful applications Park4Night or iOverlander to plan your route.

• Adapted itinerary dedicated GPS and itineraries adapted to the size of the motorhome.

Guide prices

• Private hire: €42 to €70/day, depending on model (van/profile).

• Professional rental: sometimes over €90/day with full service.

Low-cost platforms such as Yescapa and Wikicampers are attracting many newcomers with their competitive, community-based offers..

Before you leave

• B license indispensable (up to 3.5 t).

• Crit'Air sticker depending on the area crossed.

• Insurance Check theft, damage and assistance coverage.

• Equipment : vests, triangle, gas detection, kitchen/sanitary kits.

Conclusion

Visit motorhome rental is an excellent option for exploring France or Europe without the constraints of buying. Whether you opt for a private rental on Yescapa, Wikicampers or a professional rental company like Hertz, make sure you analyze the offer, compare, plan your itinerary and check the insurance. That way, your travel experience will be serene, flexible and rewarding.

Used motorhome, acat and care, the essential guide

Buy a used motorhome is an excellent solution for enjoying the freedom of a livable vehicle without paying the high price of a new one. With attractive prices, a wide choice and rapid profitability, the second-hand market is booming.

Why choose a used motorhome?

• Controlled budgetA used vehicle costs on average 30 to 40 % less than a new model, while offering a full range of services..

• Value for moneyThe average price of a used motorhome in France is around €46,000, with a difference of almost €25,000 compared to new motorhomes..

• Wide choiceWe offer a wide range of models (capucine, intégral, profilé, fourgon), with more than 3,000 ads on Leboncoin and Ouest-France Auto..

Where to look for your used motorhome?

1. Leboncoin - the essential platform for purchases between private individuals, with extensive price ranges.

2. Specialized dealers - Libertium, Idylcar, Hunyvers and YpoCamp offer serviced vehicles, guaranteed, accessible anywhere in France..

3. Specialized second-hand sites - Wikicampers or Yescapa Occasion offer security and expertise in the purchasing process .

How much does it cost?

• From €10,000-25,000 for an older model.

• Between €30,000 and €50,000 for a well-equipped, recent motorhome (~€46,000 on average).

• Up to €40,000 at certain dealerships for all-integrals and profiles that are recent or in good condition .

What to check before you buy

According to Yescapa and other experts, focus on :

• Insulation & waterproofing (roof, joints) suitable for winter/summer.

• General condition (chassis, carrier), technical inspection, humidity, maintenance invoices.

• Water/energy self-sufficiency: tank capacity, electrical equipment, water heater.

• Motorization & carrier Fiat Ducato dominates the market, with a reliable 70 % share and 2.3/3.0 Multijet engines.

Advantages and disadvantages

+

• More affordable price

• Vehicle often equipped and ready to go

• Easy resale after use

-

• Risk of moisture or corrosion

• Reduced mechanical reliability

• Limited warranty, except through dealer

Practical advice

• Ideal period : choose the low season for more choice and negotiation.

• Pre-purchase tests road test, engine check, airframe check.

• Vehicle history Ask for maintenance logs, invoices and proof of watertightness.

Conclusion

Acquire a used motorhome is a wise decision if you're looking for freedom, autonomyand economy. With a budget of €10,000 to €50,000, platforms such as Leboncoin, Yescapa Occasions, Libertium or Hunyvers offer a wide choice. Don't overlook inspectionCheck insulation, humidity and motorization (often Fiat Ducato), and prefer to buy in low season. That way, you'll benefit from an investment tailored to your travel style and budget.

Motorhome park: choosing the right stopover for your trip

L'camping-car area is a central element for travelers in motorhomes, camper vans and vans. These specially equipped areas offer essential services such as parking, drainage, water supply and electricity. Find out everything you need to know to find and use a motorhome park in France and Europe.

What is an RV park?

A camping-car area is a parking area reserved for recreational vehicles. Unlike traditional campsites, these areas are often located close to towns, villages or tourist sites, and offer basic services:

• Parking often limited to 24 or 48 hours.

• Drain for wastewater and chemical WCs.

• Drinking water : filling the tank.

• Electricity battery recharging station.

They can be free (municipal) or paying (with prices ranging from €5 to €15/night). Some also offer WIFI, garbage cans and even sanitary facilities.

Why choose a motorhome park?

• Easy access : many areas are open 24 hours a day.

• Controlled budget Less expensive than a campsite, ideal for short stopovers.

• Strategic location Close to town centers, beaches and hiking trails.

• Minimal comfort Services: sufficient for a quick stop before getting back on the road.

Where can I find a camper van site?

France has more than 4,000 camper areaswhich makes it a preferred destination for European motorhomers (france.fr).

Applications & practical guides

• Park4Night A must for locating and marking areas.

• Camping-Car Park network of 600+ rest areas in Europe with 24/24 service (campingcarpark.com).

• France Passion private areas on winegrowers' or farmers' premises.

• Guide National des Aires The paper edition is updated every year.

How much does it cost?

Tip: some areas require an access card (e.g. Pass'Etapes at Camping-Car Park).

Regulations and best practices

• Don't confuse camper areas with public parking lots.

• Respect parking time limits.

• Follow draining instructions to protect the environment (Leave No Trace).

• Avoid camping where prohibited.

Some recommended areas in France

• Somme Bay sea-view area.

• Millau (Aveyron) near the famous viaduct.

• Annecy Municipal area 15 minutes from the lake.

• Saint-Malo An ideal stop-off point for exploring the inner city.

Conclusion

Visit camper areas offer an ideal compromise between freedom and comfort. Thanks to applications such as Park4Night and networks such as Camping-Car Park, you'll easily find an area to suit your needs. Whether you're looking for a quick stopover or an extended stay, remember to plan your rest stops so you can travel with peace of mind.

Camping Car Park: complete guide to the network of sites in France

Visit camping car parkor, more precisely, the Camping-Car Parkis the 1ᵉʳ European network of motorhome service and stopover areas accessible 24 h/24. It offers more than 600 pitches in France, Spain, Belgium... with complete equipment, a reservation system and a dedicated application.

Why choose Camping-Car Park?

• Safety and peace of mindeach area is fenced in, equipped with access gates and, in some cases, video surveillance for added peace of mind. .

• Comprehensive servicesoil change, water, electricity (typically 6 A), WIFI, waste garbage cans, sanitary facilities, space for large vehicles .

• 24-hour availabilityaccess at any time, ideal for flexible travel.

• Intuitive application: allows you to locate nearby parking areas, filter by equipment, view the number of spaces available in real time.

Rates & operation

• Membership an annual fee of €5 for access to the network via the application (physical card replaced by a "Digital Pass").

• Price per night between 10 and €16depending on location and season.

• Parking time up to 21 days in most areas; can be extended in Villages after direct contact.

• Payment via top-up balance in the app; the amount is deducted on departure.

User reviews

Opinions are generally positive:

"good spacing, excellent services. 6A EHU included. Reasonable prices around €14.50 "

"These locations are perfect, often close to shops... clean and functional."

However, a few criticisms persist:

• Prices sometimes higher than traditional campsites

• Application considered a little unstable by some

• Cancellation conditions for Pack Privilèges to be scrupulously respected (postal mail required)

Practical use

1. Registration via app (Android or iOS), Digital Pass activation.

2. Top-up of the lump-sum account (e.g. minimum €50).

3. Search of an area via the interactive map and customized filters.

4. Access Generate entry code on app, scan at terminal.

5. Services available: emptying, water, electricity... use billed via the balance.

6. Departure check-out code, debit from overnight stay to balance.

Best practices & tips

• Activate the Digital Pass before you travel to avoid problems.

• Check the app before you go to find out how many places are available..

• Remember to book via Pack Privilèges if you are visiting in high season, especially at weekends and during tourist periods. .

• Filter by environment: sea, mountains, heritage, thermal baths... to choose a setting to suit your needs..

In a nutshell

Visit Camping-Car Park is a solid network for motorhome owners looking for safety, comprehensive services, ease of use and dense geographic coverage in France and Europe. For just €5 membership and €10-16 per night, you benefit from an environment designed for traveling comfort. Despite a few criticisms of the app and rates, user reviews praise the overall experience. A valuable asset for your next motorhome trip.

Market and trends in France

In France, the motorhome is experiencing significant growth: between May and September 2025, 92 million overnight stays were recorded (+10 % compared with 2019).. The sector is moving towards more top-of-the-range comfortWebsites such as Camping-Car Park.

Brands innovate: Slippersa pioneer since 1980, offers solutions such as Smart Lounge and EasyBedfrom French 100 % production at Tournon-sur-Rhône . Its subsidiary Challenger (Trigrano) also enriches the market with profiles and nasturtiums, produced at the same site..

Why choose a motorhome?

Freedom and flexibility

Thanks to its autonomy, the motorhome allows you to adapt your itinerary from day to day, making the most of every discovery.

Comfort and autonomy

With integrated kitchen, sanitary facilities, sleeping accommodation and power, the motorhome rivals a small apartment on wheels.

Feedback

Numerous testimonials praise the simplicity of vanlife: converts testify to having gone from occasional use to regular adventures, valuing the closeness to nature.

Choosing the right vehicle

Essential criteria

Weigh up the dimensions, the type of berth, the presence of a bathroom, the water/energy autonomy... With a family, opt for a nasturtium or a profile to optimize space.

Rent or buy

Platforms such as Yescapa offer over 14,000 vehicles between private individuals. Rental is ideal for testing before buying.

Additional options

An SUV or 4×4 can become a versatile vehicle with a kit such as Tchao Tchao (removable tent roof).

Essential fittings and equipment

Bedding

Permanent bed, convertible benches, mattresses: the priority is to guarantee comfort and space.

Cooking & independence

Toaster, stove, trivalent fridge, water pump and solar panels are essential for complete autonomy..

Toilets, showers & safety

Dry or chemical toilets, sanitary facilities, gas detector, vests/arrows and first-aid kit guarantee comfort and safety.

FAQ motorhome

Is it possible to sleep in a camper van anywhere in France?

No: some municipalities limit night-time presence between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. on site or in public parking lots.

What size for a family?

Choose a nasturtium or a profile with permanent bed + cabin bed, for 4 to 7 berths.

What equipment for winter?

Advanced insulation, diesel/gas heating, cell battery and water heater are essential.

What apps for areas?

Park4Night, iOverlander and France Passion membership offer a variety of solutions.

License or special sticker?

B license sufficient up to 3.5 t. Crit'Air stickers may be compulsory in certain urban areas.

How to limit toll charges?

Choose secondary roads, reduce speed, opt for a light vehicle.

How to camp in wilderness safety?

Keep a low profile, don't leave doors open, park in accessible, authorized areas.

Mandatory insurance?

Yes, liability coverage is compulsory: check for specific motorhome coverage (furniture, theft).

Conclusion

Visit motorhomeWith this package, you combine freedom, autonomy and immersion. From preparation to itinerary, everything is modular according to your desires. Test drive a motorhome rental, choose a suitable vehicle, equip it well, set off on a cross-country adventure and enjoy nature to the full.