Winter camping – camping destinations for the cold season

Frosty air, snow-covered landscapes and cosy evenings in your camper: winter camping is one of the most beautiful ways to experience winter. With the right equipment from AL-KO, you can enjoy comfort, stability and safety, even on journeys through the snow and frost.

A camper van driving around a bend on a snow-covered road.
A snow-covered campsite in winter with a few caravans among the trees.

Key takeaways

What makes winter camping so special

  1. Peace and quiet instead of hustle and bustle: When the high season is over, many campsites become quiet retreats. This means free choice of pitch, relaxed check-ins and more privacy – perfect for anyone who likes to get away from the crowds.
  2. Winter activities right on your doorstep: Winter camping often means being right in the thick of things. Many pitches in skiing regions are just metres away from the slopes, so you can start your adventure simply by stepping out of your motorhome. Whether you are skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoe hiking or tobogganing with the family, snow-covered landscapes offer countless opportunities for fun.
  3. Comfort despite the cold: The magic of winter camping lies in its blend of adventure and comfort. After a day in the fresh air, you can come back to a warm, well-insulated camper. A winter-proof awning for caravans or motorhomes provides additional space for equipment, dries ski boots and keeps moisture out of the interior.

Camping trip ideas for winter

From the Alps to the sea, there are countless beautiful destinations to enjoy even in the cold season.

Mountain regions: the joy of camping in the snow

Tyrol, Allgäu and South Tyrol are ideal destinations for anyone who wants to enjoy an active winter holiday. Many campsites are also open during the cold season and have electricity connections, heated sanitary facilities and often even ski bus connections. This means you can head straight from your pitch in the morning to the ski slopes or cross-country trails.

The AL-KO support systems HY4 and BIG FOOT ensure that your motorhome is stable — even on snow-covered or frozen pitches. This makes sleeping more comfortable and protects furnishings from unnecessary movement.

Water worlds: Coast and lakes in winter

The coasts of the North and Baltic Seas, as well as Lake Constance, show their quiet side in winter. Walks by the water, radiant sunsets and sweeping views offer a welcome change of scenery. As many campsites are emptier at this time of year, you’ll easily find a spot right by the water.

When manoeuvring on icy surfaces or narrow entrances, AL-KO manoeuvring systems provide invaluable support: They enable millimetre-precise positioning of your caravan by remote control – without the hassle of manoeuvring.

Mild regions: soak up the sun in southern Spain

Those of you who want to escape the cold will find a pleasant climate with plenty of sunshine in Andalusia, on the Costa Blanca or in Portugal. Sites are often cheaper and less crowded outside the peak season – perfect for longer stays.

When travelling across several countries, driving safety is key: The AL-KO ACS front axle strut and the semi-active COMFORT DRIVE body support smooth, stable driving and compensate for uneven surfaces and crosswinds. This way, you’ll arrive at your destination feeling more relaxed – even after travelling hundreds of kilometres.

Safety and comfort during the winter season

The cold season poses particular challenges for campers: slippery roads, early darkness and icy pitches are not uncommon. To ensure that your journey remains relaxed even in sub-zero temperatures, it is worth being well prepared. The right equipment ensures greater safety and comfort wherever you travel.

  • Protective covers: A breathable caravan protective cover keeps snow, ice and moisture away – ideal for longer periods in one place. It protects the paintwork and prevents mould growth.
  • Anti-theft protectionWheel clamps and clutch locks prevent unauthorised movement and provide peace of mind, especially when the camper is left unattended in remote winter pitches or during skiing trips.
  • Body and suspension: The ACS front axle strut and COMFORT DRIVE help you drive more smoothly and steadily. Unevenness is smoothed out and crosswinds are reduced – improving driving safety in winter road conditions.
  • Support systems: The hydraulic HY4 levelling support system or the BIG FOOT feet reliably stabilise your vehicle, even when the ground is muddy or frozen. This ensures a secure footing and more comfortable sleep.
  • Winter awning: A well-insulated awning keeps the cold out, protects the interior from moisture, and provides space for skis, boots and other winter equipment.

You can find other practical advice in our article “AL-KO tips for winter camping – from gas supplies to thermal covers” – ideal for preparing for your next winter tour.