Long-term camping made easy: comfort, planning, and the right equipment
Permanent camping is very much in vogue. Your own retreat at the campsite, settled neighbours, short travel routes, and plenty of nature – for many campers, a permanent campsite feels like a second home. To ensure your long-term camping plans are a success, it is worth taking a closer look at the choice of pitch, the costs, and the right equipment for your caravan.
Permanent camping – key facts in brief
- Permanent camping offers comfort and flexibility, but requires careful planning in terms of pitch selection, costs and equipment.
- A protective canopy, awning floor, rain gutter and support systems ensure stability, durability and a cosy set-up on the permanent pitch.
- The AL-KO accessories consultant for caravans offers suitable recommendations for your vehicle – for a long-term camping set-up tailored perfectly to your needs.
How much does a permanent campsite cost?
The cost of a permanent campsite varies depending on the location, season, pitch size and campsite facilities. In Germany, prices usually range between €1,200 and €3,000 per year. Fees are often higher for pitches in tourist areas or right by the water.
Additional costs may be incurred for electricity, water, waste disposal, and the use of services. The cost of a year-round camping spot also varies depending on the level of comfort – from simple nature spots to modern facilities with spas, restaurants, and a range of sports activities.
The right caravan for long-term camping
Many campers use their existing caravans, while others specifically opt for a model that is suitable for long-term stays. When it comes to permanent camping, stability, insulation, and a sense of space are particularly important. For even more comfort, permanent campers opt for a fixed awning to create additional living space. A high-quality, weatherproof model pays off, especially for long stays.
Another must-have is a protective canopy for the caravan. This shields the roof from hail, snow and UV radiation while enhancing the interior climate, helping your caravan stay in excellent condition for longer.
The perfect awning: floor, rain gutter & accessories
An awning quickly becomes an extra living area when camping long-term. To keep it stable and dry, care should be taken to ensure its foundation is solid. The right awning floor for long-term camping keeps everything clean and dry while providing a welcoming sense of space. Common options include wooden systems, aluminium panels, or specialised floor panels. For extra organisation, an equipment tent provides storage for chairs, barbecues, tools, and other outdoor gear during long-term camping.
To make sure rainwater drains away properly, we also recommend installing a rain gutter on the awning. This prevents water from running down the tent or entering the caravan. A stable flooring solution for the awning when camping long-term makes your stay comfortable and creates a cosy atmosphere.
Stability and security for long-term camping: jacking up and protecting your caravan
If you are parked on a pitch for a long time, you should stabilise your caravan and protect it from moisture. Jacking up the caravan ensures better stability even on bumpy ground – and protects the tyres. High-quality support systems and shims guarantee additional stability.
Additional safety measures such as protective covers, wheel chocks or high-quality locks keep your caravan secure – even when you are offsite.
Suitable accessories for your permanent camping set-up
Go to the accessories consultant for caravansWhether it’s a hydraulic support system for optimal stability or a security lock to prevent theft, having the right equipment makes all the difference when it comes to long-term camping. If you want to find out which accessories are best suited to your caravan, it is worth taking a look at the AL-KO accessories consultant specifically for caravans.
How to pick the perfect permanent pitch
When choosing the right pitch, it's worth considering the following aspects:
- Location: Lake, mountains or forest?
- Size: Will the caravan and awning fit on the pitch?
- Ground: Meadow or gravel? On flat ground or on a slope?
- Campsite amenities: Sanitary facilities, Wi-Fi, shops, restaurants, sports activities, etc.
- Neighbourhood: Quiet or family-friendly? A good starting point for activities and excursions?
- Long-term perspective: Waiting lists, contract terms, rules
In short: Permanent camping – a countryside retreat to call home.
With the right pitch, a sturdy awning, well thought-out accessories and a well-protected caravan, a year-round pitch can be a haven of comfort. A permanent camping pitch offers the perfect balance of freedom, nature, and dependability — ideal for anyone seeking a place to enjoy regular escapes.
