European camping market: 413 million overnight stays under the open sky

Based on archival photos, the article describes the history of camping in Hungary, starting in 1958 when the first campsites opened in Tihany and Balatonfüred. In the 1960s, large-scale infrastructure development began: communal kitchens, showers, and water supply were introduced. Hungary, as an aluminum producer, manufactured camping equipment: stoves, chairs, tables, and tents. Camping was expensive: a daily ticket cost about 10 forints, and with equipment it was double, while a SZOT voucher with three meals a day cost 15 forints. After the regime change, camping declined, and many sites were closed or redeveloped.

According to the 2026 price analysis by PiNCAMP (ADAC), the average cost per night at a campsite in Croatia during the peak summer season has reached €73, making it the most expensive among the countries surveyed. This surpasses Switzerland (€61) and Italy (€63). Prices in Croatia rose by 12% year-on-year, while Spain saw a 15% increase (to €58). The most affordable countries are Norway (€38), Sweden (€40), and Germany (€41). The calculation is based on a pitch for a motorhome or caravan with a tow vehicle for two adults and one child up to 10 years old.