A campervan trip offers a unique and flexible way to explore a new destination. — Photos: Unsplash
With more people looking for flexible ways to travel, campervan trips have become a popular choice.
Instead of staying in one place, campervan travel lets you explore more – all at your own pace.
You can wake up by the beach one day and then settle down for the night in the mountains the next.
While countries like New Zealand and Australia are well-known for campervan travel, there are many other places that are just as great, but perhaps not as widely talked about. These countries have well-maintained roads and good facilities for motorhomes, making them ideal for your next trip.
Portugal
It’s easy to find a campsite to park your “home-on-wheels” in the motorhome-friendly nation of Portugal. There are plenty of camper parks across the country, many of which would require you to pay a small fee.
A must-do for campervan travellers is the Estrada Nacional 2, dubbed by Americans as the “Portuguese Route 66”, the longest national road in the country.
Measuring over 739km, it takes you from northern Chaves all the way down to Faro in the south, winding through various districts, and past mountains and rivers. Along the way, you’ll never run out of things to do and delicious food to try.
Towns like Evora and Monsaraz in rural Alentejo are great for soaking up historical charms.
If you want to avoid the summer crowd, plan your trip between April and June or September and November.
Drive through the beautiful Atlantic Ocean Road in Norway.
Norway
Did you know that in Norway, campervan travellers can legally camp almost anywhere on uncultivated land? This is due to the “Right To Roam” bill, introduced in the Outdoor Recreation Act in 1957, which lets campers experience the wild.
That said, there are a few important rules to follow: Stay at least 150m away from private homes, don’t camp in one spot for more than two nights, and always avoid areas where it could cause damage to property or disturbance.
Picture yourself cruising down the Atlantic Ocean Road, an 8km or so scenic stretch that winds through tiny coastal islands. It’s no wonder the road is often called one of the most beautiful drives in the world.
If you’re up for a hike, head to Rondane National Park, about 270km from the Atlantic Ocean Road. This alpine paradise offers peaceful hiking trails and views.
Take another 180km drive from the park to the beautiful Geirangerfjord, where steep cliffs and cascading waterfalls become your backdrop.
If you are planning your trip, aim for May or September: You’ll be able to experience either spring blooms or vibrant autumn foliage, and there will be fewer crowds, too.
Montenegro’s Kotor is great for a campervan adventure.
Montenegro
The European nation of Montenegro may be small, but it packs a punch when it comes to tourism, and especially for campervan tourists.
Tucked along the Adriatic coast are peaceful towns like Herceg Novi, Budva and Kotor. These spots, known for their diverse landscapes, are favoured by campers.
From natural wonders such as national parks, canyons, and glacial lakes, to historical landmarks like medieval fortresses, you will find plenty of immersive experiences.
Unlike its tourist-packed neighbours, such as Croatia and Albania, Montenegro is a great destination for those seeking a quieter holiday. This little-known country will make your road trip worthwhile.
Before you hit the road, it’s a good idea to get familiar with the local traffic laws. For example, you need to keep your headlights on no matter the time of day. This is because while the roads are scenic, they can be narrow and winding, especially in mountainous areas.
Another important thing to note is that camping in the wilderness isn’t permitted in Montenegro, so it’s best to stay at official campsites, though it is said the rules tend to be a little more relaxed in remote areas. (We still recommend that you stick to official spots.)
If you’re planning a trip, spring and autumn are ideal, offering cooler temperatures and more pleasant weather for your exploration.
Japan
Japan might not be the first destination that pops up for a campervan adventure, but it’s actually an unexpected delight for road-trippers.
Fly to Fukuoka in Kyushu, one of the country’s four main islands. Rent a motorhome and drive through the island’s scenic routes to Nabegataki Waterfall, a popular spot where you can walk behind the cascading water.
Just a short drive away, unwind at Kurokawa Onsen, a hot spring town tucked in the mountains.
Don’t miss the Daikanbo Lookout area which is great for viewing Mount Aso and its expansive caldera – one of the largest in the world that was shaped by volcanic eruptions.
Wrap up your trip with a drive along the beautiful Laputa Road, nicknamed the “Road To Heaven”, before heading back to Fukuoka.
United Arab Emirates
Dubai, one of the UAE’s seven emirates, is usually known for its tall skyscrapers, deserts and artificial islands. Today, it is also a hotspot for campervan tours.
Start your trip by driving your campervan to Al Qudra Desert, about 60km from the city. There, you’ll find peaceful lakes among the sand dunes.
The next day, head to Hatta, which is 145km away. This mountain town is home to the Hatta Dam, where you can go kayaking and hike through the nearby hills.
Finish your adventure in the neighbouring emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, 180km from Hatta. There, treat yourself to a magical sunset picnic on the beach.
Visitors must apply for a Parks pass to access national parks in Canada.
Canada
For campervan adventures, the Canadian Rockies – stretching across Alberta and British Columbia in western Canada – is a top choice for nature lovers.
Along the way, you might come across moose, elk and even the occasional grizzly bear as you wind through the roads surrounded by towering peaks. It is this stunning scenery that makes the region a top nature destination.
Besides hiking trails, you’ll also find natural hot springs, cascading waterfalls and glacial lakes.
Landmarks like the massive Columbia Icefield and the majestic Takakkaw Falls are just a few of the natural wonders that make this area worth visiting.
The Banff National Park, a popular place for locals and tourists, is part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks Unesco World Heritage Site.
Remember to apply for a Parks Canada pass to access the national parks.
