New campervan rules in Europe: Spain, Greece, Germany and more change travel conditions

German campsites increasingly require all guests, including foreigners, to present a G607 gas inspection certificate. The Dutch MOT (APK) does not cover the domestic gas installation in the living area of a motorhome. Without the G607 certificate, campsite management may deny entry or seal the gas cylinder. The inspection costs around €150 in the Netherlands.

In Carinthia (Austria), strict rules apply to overnight stays in a motorhome or car outside official campsites. Intentionally staying in one place for more than one night is considered wild camping and is prohibited. An exception is a short rest due to extreme fatigue, allowed for only one night. Violations may result in fines.

Since January 1, 2026, Spain has restricted access for motorhomes exceeding 3.5 tonnes in several tourist areas, including Barcelona, Valencia, and the Costa Brava. Local authorities can now control parking and traffic through municipal decrees. Violators face fines ranging from €200 to €600. Holders of a B driving license may still drive certain motorhomes up to 4.25 tonnes, but they must verify the gross vehicle weight and plan itineraries accordingly.

Camper travel regulations differ significantly across countries. Portugal restricts overnight stays in protected areas to 48 hours, France enforces Crit'Air low-emission zones, and New Zealand will require a green warrant card and fixed toilet from June 2026. In Iceland, damage from river crossings is uninsured, while California's Highway 1 remains subject to unpredictable closures.

Since January 2026, Spain restricts motorhomes over 3.5 tonnes fully loaded in sensitive areas: major coastal cities (Barcelona, Valencia), national parks, narrow mountain roads. Municipalities can fine offenders €200–€600 and impound vehicles for repeat violations. Drivers should check the permitted maximum mass (PTAC) on registration documents and the actual loaded weight.

Since January 1, 2026, Spain has imposed restrictions on the circulation of motorhomes weighing over 3.5 tonnes in several tourist areas and natural parks. The ban applies to Barcelona, Valencia, Costa Brava, and certain mountain roads like the MA-10 in Majorca. Violators face fines ranging from 200 to 600 euros and vehicle immobilization.

In the Netherlands, a rule prohibits parking motorhomes, caravans, and trailers in public spaces for more than 72 consecutive hours. Violators first receive a warning, after which the vehicle is towed. Storage at the municipal depot costs at least 180 euros for the first 12 hours, plus 17 euros for each subsequent day.

Greece has lifted a nearly year-long ban on motorhome parking outside dedicated areas. A new police directive now permits parking under general traffic rules, provided it does not constitute camping. Motorhomes under 7.5 meters in height can park like regular cars, while longer vehicles are limited to 24 hours in one spot.

Greece has lifted a nearly year-long ban on motorhomes that was imposed in May 2025. Under a new police directive, parking is now permitted, but strict rules apply: vehicles over 7.5 meters in height may not stay in one location for more than 24 hours.

As of January 1, 2026, Hungary has changed its road toll rules for motorhomes. Vehicles with a maximum authorized mass over 3500 kg have been moved from the truck category to the D2 category, eliminating the need for complex on-board units. They now only require an e-vignette, purchased online, similar to lighter motorhomes.