How Much Does a Camper Trip Cost?

The cost of a camper trip varies depending on several factors, but as a general guide, you can expect to pay around £100 per day for a smaller camper during the low season. During the summer months, larger vehicles can cost £150 to £200 per day, particularly in popular destinations.

The biggest factors affecting the price are:

• Time of year

• Destination

• Vehicle size

• Length of your trip

If you're travelling as a couple, a compact camper is often the most affordable option. Families or larger groups may pay more for extra space, but choosing the right vehicle can make your holiday much more comfortable.

The cost of a camper holiday depends on four main factors: when you travel, where you travel, the vehicle you choose and how long you're away. 

Season

The time of year has the biggest impact on rental prices. During the summer holidays, demand is much higher, so prices tend to increase. Travelling in spring or autumn is often more affordable, and you'll usually find quieter campsites too.

Destination

Rental prices vary from country to country. Popular destinations such as Scandinavia are generally more expensive, while countries like Spain and Portugal often offer better value, particularly outside the peak season.

Vehicle size

A compact camper is usually the most affordable option and is ideal for couples or solo travellers. Larger vehicles cost more to rent, but the extra space can be well worth it if you're travelling with family or planning a longer trip.

Trip length

Longer trips naturally cost more overall, but many rental companies offer lower daily rates for extended bookings. Spending a little longer on the road can sometimes offer better value than a shorter break during peak season.

Not all campers offer the same level of comfort, which is one of the reasons rental prices can vary.

A budget camper is a great choice if you're looking for an affordable way to travel. These vehicles include everything you need for a comfortable road trip, but they're often older models with more miles on the clock. While they're well maintained and perfectly suited for travelling, you may notice a few signs of wear or slightly more basic facilities.

A premium camper is typically a newer model with extra comfort and modern features. Depending on the vehicle, you may have a larger living area, more storage, a private bathroom and features such as automatic transmission, air conditioning or solar panels. 

Neither option is better. If you're mainly looking for a practical place to sleep after a day of exploring, a budget camper may be all you need. If comfort is higher on your priority list, a premium camper could be worth the extra cost.

Rental prices vary throughout the year in almost every destination. Australia is a good example, with noticeable differences between the low and high season.

The table below shows an illustrative example of the average cost of a 19-day camper trip in Australia. Actual prices will vary depending on the vehicle, travel dates and availability.

Travelling outside the peak season can make a noticeable difference to your overall travel budget. While campsite fees may increase slightly, the biggest difference usually comes from the daily rental rate.

A similar pattern can be seen in many popular destinations. Booking early and travelling outside the busiest holiday periods often gives you more choice and better value.

The daily rental price is usually the biggest cost, but it's worth planning for a few additional expenses before you travel. 

Fuel

Your fuel costs will depend on the size of your camper, the distance you travel and the type of roads you use. Longer routes and mountainous areas generally require more fuel than shorter journeys on flatter roads.

Campsites

Campsite fees vary by destination and season. As a general guide, expect to pay between £20 and £50 per night, although premium campsites in popular locations may charge more.

Road tolls and vignettes

Some countries charge for using motorways or certain roads. For example, France, Italy and Spain have toll roads, while countries such as Austria and Switzerland require a motorway vignette. Some rental companies include these, while others don't, so it's worth checking before you travel.

Food and groceries

One of the advantages of travelling by camper is having your own kitchen. Shopping at local supermarkets and cooking your own meals is often much more affordable than eating out every day.

Optional extras

Depending on your trip, you may want to add extras such as bedding, kitchen equipment, outdoor furniture, child seats or additional drivers. What's included varies between rental companies, so it's always worth checking whether items such as insurance, mileage or optional equipment are already included in the rental price. 

A few smart choices before you book can make a noticeable difference to your travel budget without taking away from the experience.

Book early

The best deals are often available well in advance, especially if you're travelling during school holidays or to popular destinations. Booking early also gives you a wider choice of vehicles, making it easier to find one that suits both your budget and your travel plans.

Travel outside the peak season

If your dates are flexible, consider travelling in spring or autumn. Rental prices are often lower, campsites tend to be quieter and you'll usually have more choice when booking.

Choose the right vehicle

It's tempting to book a larger camper, but extra space also means higher rental and fuel costs. If you're travelling as a couple, a compact camper is often all you need. Families and larger groups may find that the extra comfort of a larger vehicle is well worth the additional cost.

Compare what's included

The daily rental rate doesn't always tell the full story. Some rentals include insurance, mileage or equipment, while others charge extra. Comparing what's included, rather than focusing on the price alone, can help you find better overall value.

At first glance, a camper holiday can seem more expensive than a traditional holiday. However, it's worth looking at the bigger picture.

When you rent a camper, you're paying for more than just a vehicle. Your transport, accommodation and kitchen are all included, so you don't have to budget separately for hotels, hire cars or eating out every day.

For families and travellers planning longer road trips, this can make a camper holiday surprisingly good value. It also gives you the freedom to change your plans, stay longer in places you love and discover destinations that are often difficult to reach on a traditional holiday.

Ultimately, the total cost depends on your travel style. By choosing the right vehicle, planning ahead and understanding the extra costs, you can make the most of your budget without compromising on the experience.

Now that you have a better idea of what to budget for, it's time to find the right camper for your trip.

At CamperDays, you can compare vehicles from trusted rental companies, see what's included in the rental price and choose the option that best suits your budget, travel style and destination.