Long-term camper banned from Waitzinger Wiese parking lot

CHIP has published a selection of mobile apps for planning camping trips. The list includes services for packing lists (PackPoint), finding available pitches on campsites (camping.info, ADAC Stellplatzführer) and alternative overnight spots (Landvergnügen). Navigation and weather apps are also recommended.

In Rügshofen, an unknown person stole a wallet from an open trunk at an Aldi parking lot on May 26 around 1:30 PM. In Geldersheim, someone entered a parked motorhome and searched it without stealing anything. Police are asking for tips.

A PiNCAMP analysis of nearly 15,000 European campsites reveals a significant gap between ADAC classifications and guest reviews. According to ADAC, 77% of campsites receive 3 or 4 stars, while 64% of guests give the top rating of 5 stars. ADAC measures objective quality and facilities based on 200 criteria, whereas guests reflect subjective satisfaction. Experts advise using both systems: first filter by ADAC stars for facility standards, then check reviews for atmosphere.

Promobil magazine reviewed 12 fully integrated motorhomes (vollintegrierte Wohnmobile) as entry-level luxury models. All are built on Fiat Ducato or Mercedes Sprinter chassis, up to 7.5 m long, with base prices from €100,000 to €145,000. A key issue is curb weight: most are registered as 3.5-ton vehicles, but due to heavy construction (large windshield, double floor) payload is limited. Upgrading to 4.4–4.5 t GVWR is recommended for practical use.

Hymer has introduced the Redwood camper van based on the Fiat Ducato, measuring 6 meters in length. The model targets urban dwellers and offers three trim levels: Sport, Trail, and Explorer. The base price is €68,900, including a 140 hp engine and a pop-up roof.

On the morning of June 3, a fire broke out at a campsite in Niederkrüchten (Viersen district). Flames destroyed six caravans, several cabins and outbuildings. Three people suffered minor injuries, one from smoke inhalation. Around 70 emergency personnel responded; the cause is under investigation.