A campsite is the most comfortable option for sleeping in your motorhome, especially when you're starting out: it has services, security and all the comforts. But if you've never taken a camper into one before, questions come up: how does it work? what do I need? what rules are there? Here's everything you need to know so your first time goes smoothly.
How it works
You arrive, check in at reception (they'll ask for your documents and, if you haven't booked, check availability), and you're allocated or choose a pitch. You park the camper on it, connect to the services (electricity, sometimes water), and you're set up. When you leave, you pay for the nights and services used. Simple.
What you need to bring
- An extension cable with a CEE adapter (the standard campsite connector) to hook up to the pitch's electricity.
- A hose and water fittings if you want to fill the tank.
- Your documents and the vehicle's.
- Levelling ramps to level the camper if the pitch slopes.
The advantages of a campsite
- Electricity: hooked up to 230V, you recharge the battery and use appliances without eating into your range.
- Services: showers, toilets, sometimes a pool, laundry, restaurant.
- Security and peace of mind, ideal for beginners or long stays.
- Comfortable emptying and filling of tanks.
Common rules
- Night-time quiet hours: respect them.
- Low speed limits within the grounds and watch out for children.
- Pitch rules: where to park, awnings, pets.
- Wristband or access card at many sites.
Campsites, yes, but not always
Campsites are great, but they're also the most expensive option, and sticking only to campsites takes away some of the freedom of camper life. It's best to combine them with aires and wild camping depending on the moment; and for that, the more range you have (power and water), the less you'll depend on the campsite hook-up (use the calculator). Find out about the alternatives at motorhome aires.
In short
A campsite is the most comfortable and secure option for beginners: you check in, set up on a pitch and connect to the services, respecting the site's rules. The step to take today: for your first time, bring the cable with a CEE adapter and the levelling ramps, book ahead if you're travelling in high season, and enjoy the comfort; later on, combine it with aires to gain freedom and save money. Pair it with motorhome aires.