RVing Abroad Which Countries Cater to the RV Lifestyle

RVing abroad can be a wonderful experience! Most of the readers here at the MobileRVing blog have plenty of experience either behind the wheel or as a passenger of an RV. Many of you have traveled thousands of miles on trips near and far that have certainly been exciting, rewarding, and full of memorable moments. The seemingly endless highways and scenic routes that crisscross the US provide the perfect plot for many years’ worth of RV camping trips with friends and family. Of the many different like-minded people you’ll come across if you spend any considerable time on the road pursuing the RV life, you’re certain to get tips, tricks, and recommendations to help facilitate future travels and explorations.

You will not, however, encounter many folks who have pursued an RV trip in another country. Why not? Well mainly, because of what I just described above, the US can seem like an RVers dreamland and for good reason! Other options are out there and definitely worth looking in to. If you have the time and resources, any trip abroad is a welcome chance for new experiences and sights. If you have the chance to RV abroad, you’ll get to combine all the magic and glory that comes with RV living alongside the wonder and enchantment of visiting a new country. Sounds like a combination made in a traveler’s paradise, doesn’t it? So if you’ve ever considered a trip abroad or in an RV or happen to have experience with both, here is a look at some of the best countries across the globe that cater to the RV lifestyle.

New Zealand

This island nation in the southern hemisphere boasts some of the most scenic and varied beauty in the world. Most of the country has a rural feel to it and small town hospitality abounds for those lucky enough to come down for a visit. Don’t let the small size of the country make you think it doesn’t have much to offer for RVers. You could easily get around both islands in a matter of weeks and if you have a month to spend, you would be in for a trip of a lifetime. New Zealand allows Freedom Camping, the Kiwi term for boondocking, and you are allowed to park your RV and stay for a night or two on public lands throughout the country as long as your rig is set up with a permanent toilet. The major cities are full of rental outfits that provide a fully ready to go RV to cater to your needs. Check out some options here.

Related Read: Renting an RV: The Ins and Outs

France

It may come as a surprise to some of us in the states, but the French love to camp! And their beautiful country is a perfect destination for any ambitious RV enthusiast. The highways here are well maintained and offer easy access around the country. There are over 3,000 different RV campgrounds here and with decent weather almost all year round, you can plan a trip at a time that is convenient and affordable. You won’t always need a campground for your RV in France as many different Aires, basically the French equivalent of a rest stop are along every major highway. These Aires offer auto services and amenities just like the stops in the states, but you can also park your rig for the night and oftentimes get rid of waste and fill up on water for free. This is a great service provided for motorhome travelers and should be taken advantage of. Check out a map of all the Aires across France here.

Norway

This Scandinavian country is for the epic adventurer seeking serene beauty and a chance to find some solitude up north. Better left for an RV trip in the warmer months, Norway has legendary fjords, lush meadows, and coastlines that seem to beckon upon approach. If winter sports are of appeal, an RV trip is possible in the winter, with safe driving practices a must, and you’re nearly certain to be rewarded with a spectacular view of the northern lights as payment for you ambition. Even better, a Nordic tradition called allemannsretten is built into Norwegian law stating that anyone has the right to roam, wander, and camp on public lands for free for up to two nights. An RV trip to Norway is a trip of a lifetime and a destination to add onto any bucket list.

Southern Africa

The southern reaches of this wild continent are for those with a true sense of adventure and exploration. South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana should be the countries of focus here as they all offer decent infrastructure with highways and services should you need to find any assistance during your trip. There are many campgrounds all over these countries and if you spend any time at all traversing the wild open lands of the region you are sure to encounter some of the legendary wildlife that Africa is legendary for. You can rent an RV in major cities such as Cape Town and many different rental companies are available to assist in planning and direction.

Related Read: Your Guide to the Best RV Rental

Mexico

Another country for the adventurous RVer, Mexico is an amazing place to explore and experience from the comforts of an RV. While you will not come across many other RVers around the country, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from and amazing beachfront public lands that will make wonder why anyone would pay so much for an all-inclusive resort down the coast. Make sure your rig is in good shape before you head south of the border as RV services and repair can be a bit hard to come by. Brush up on your Spanish and you’ll see how friendly and welcoming our southern neighbors can be. Fuel can be expensive but the food is cheap and there is no shortage of amazing sights to see and locations to visit. Mexico may seem like an odd choice for an RV trip but it truly is one of the most unique and exciting countries to explore.