Roof Tent Road Trip: Our Summer Adventure Across Europe

Summer roof tent camping has come and gone, but the memories are still fresh. From the winding rivers of Germany to the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites, our three-month journey across Europe was nothing short of magical. If you’ve ever dreamed of hitting the road with a roof tent, this post is for you.

Why We Chose Roof Tent Camping

A roof tent car parked at a quiet campsite nestled in a valley, surrounded by the towering peaks of the Italian Dolomites.

We wanted freedom, flexibility, and the thrill of waking up in a new country every few days. Our roof tent gave us all that and more. It was comfortable, quick to set up, and perfect for spontaneous stops in nature.

Planning the Route

A map of Europe showing the route of a roof tent road trip across multiple countries.

Living in Edinburgh, Scotland, we had to figure out the best way to reach mainland Europe by car. The DFDS ferry from Newcastle to Amsterdam turned out to be the fastest and most convenient option, even if it was a bit pricey. It saved us from a long drive south to the Eurotunnel. We did take the Eurotunnel on our way back, to switch things up.

Our Route Through Europe

A panoramic view from Rossfeld Panorama Road in the Bavarian Alps, showcasing winding roads, alpine peaks, and sweeping valleys.

Here’s a quick overview of our journey:

Outbound Journey:

  • Netherlands – We started in Amsterdam and explored the Dutch countryside.
  • Belgium – Camped in the Ardennes and went kayaking.
  • Germany – Followed the scenic Rhine River.
  • France – close to Strassbourg.
  • Austria – multiple locations.
  • Hungary – Passed through with short stops.
  • Romania – Our furthest destination.

Return Journey:

  • Hungary – Overnight in Budapest.
  • Slovenia – Peaceful campsites and beautiful nature.
  • Italy – Explored the stunning Dolomites.
  • Switzerland – Scenic drives and mountain views.
  • France (near Dover) – Final stop before heading back via the Eurotunnel.

I will go more in-depth in several articles for more details on each country, where we stayed and what we did.

Camping Essentials: What to Pack

A compact camping cooking set laid out on a foldable table, including pots, pans, utensils, and a portable stove.

Being on the road for over three months meant we had to be well-prepared. Here’s what we found essential:

Camping Gear:

  • Foldable table & chairs
  • Cooking equipment
  • Bug spray
  • LED lights
  • Leveling ramp set – crucial for uneven ground!

Personal Items:

  • Toiletry bag with essentials
  • Slippers (a must!)
  • Towel & hair dryer
  • Laundry bag
  • Washing pods (many campsites have machines but no detergent)

Check out the complete list of the essentials for road tripping with a roof tent by clicking here.

How to Book Campsites in Europe

A scenic camping spot in Europe with a car parked under a roof tent, surrounded by nature and other campers.

Europe offers a wide range of camping options. You can choose from spots completely in nature, places close to cities, campsites only for adults, fully serviced campgrounds or campsites with the bare minimum. Here’s how we made it work:

Tips for Booking:

  • Use the Park4Night app – affordable and packed with reviews. I’d recommend getting the paid version because you are able to contact the campsites directly through the app.
  • Some sites (especially in Germany) require phone or email reservations.
  • Others offer easy online booking—our personal favorite.
  • Avoid paying in advance if you’re spontaneous. We missed a check-in once and lost the money.
  • Look for 24/7 check-in campsites—they’re a lifesaver!

Roof tent camping through Europe was one of the most rewarding experiences we’ve ever had. The freedom to explore, the connection to nature, and the joy of discovering new places made every moment unforgettable.

In my next posts, I’ll dive deeper into the best camping spots we found and the activities you can enjoy around them, like kayaking in Belgium and hiking in the Dolomites.

Until then, unwind and explore.