Camping-Check Episode 42: Super Campers and Riverside Campsites

In Sasbach, owner Amelie Steurer converted a decommissioned ambulance into a camper. The orange foil was kept, heavy equipment removed, and a bed, cabinets and space for dogs were installed. The first trip in the camper was to Poland, including the Baltic Sea.

ADAC Hessen-Thüringen e.V. has issued guidance for families planning camping trips during the autumn school holidays. When choosing a motorhome, the number of approved seats is key, especially for families with more than two children, as many models offer only two rear seats. For accommodation, family-friendly campsites with playgrounds, fenced pools and laundry facilities are recommended. When packing, the maximum permissible weight stated in the vehicle registration document must be observed. Children under twelve or shorter than 150 cm require a suitable child seat mounted on a forward-facing seat. ADAC suggests using the PiNCAMP portal to filter suitable campsites.

A campsite on the island of Fehmarn, located by the South Beach, has taken first place in several rankings by German camping portals for 2026. It offers sea views, a Finnish sauna and infrastructure that has received multiple awards. The island reportedly outperformed popular destinations such as Rügen and the North Sea coast.

The city of Unna is examining whether to create a dedicated motorhome site amid a camping boom and a shortage of pitches. Previously, under the "Camping in the Kurpark" scheme, the city temporarily allowed overnight stays in the green area, which was used by visitors from twin towns.

At the Caravan Salon 2026, KEC Motors presented the Mountaineer Grand Expedition, an expedition vehicle based on a 7-metre Mercedes Sprinter. The build incorporates expertise from professional recording studio construction, resulting in low noise levels inside. Prices for conversions on VW Crafter and MAN TGE start at approximately €148,000, while Mercedes Sprinter conversions start at approximately €167,000; the show vehicle with full equipment is priced at around €240,000.

At the "Lederstube" parking lot in Frasdorf, campers are illegally overnighting and discharging gray and black water onto meadows adjacent to a drinking water protection area. The municipality had tolerated the violations, but the local council is now addressing the issue. A proposal to install a supply station for fresh water and waste disposal was rejected due to lack of suitable land. The Chiemsee-Alpenland tourism region already has 26 campsites and motorhome pitches.