What's forbidden in Germany is actually encouraged in other countries! Here, we're talking about the "Everyman's Right," which has been known for centuries, especially in Scandinavian countries, and is deeply rooted in their culture. It's most well-known in Finland, Sweden, and Norway, but even in these countries, there are a few differences that you should definitely be aware of on your trip.
What does the right of public access mean?
The right of public access states that everyone, including tourists, has the right to move freely in nature. Camping is also permitted in almost all locations. The right of public access makes it possible to plan beautiful routes by bike or on foot. Even collecting wildflowers, mushrooms, and berries is permitted. However, you should leave protected plants alone.
However, you should stick to the four basic rules:
- #campingwithmanners: Leave no rubbish
- Make sure you are not on private property
- Do not damage nature
- Avoid cultivated fields
Does this also apply to traveling with a camper or motorhome?
This is regulated differently from country to country. It's best to double-check with the camper on-site to see if you're actually allowed to stay overnight with your camper. Many signs are now translated into German, so you can be 100% sure whether you're allowed to spend the night there. Otherwise, if you're unsure, it's better to find another spot to camp for the night.
What is allowed in which country?
Finland
In Finland, you are only allowed to park your camper or motorhome where it is expressly permitted. It is prohibited everywhere else.
Sweden
Overnight camping is permitted in designated parking spaces. You can also camp on the beach and spend the night there in Sweden.
Norway
Things are quite different in Norway. Here, you're allowed to park your motorhome almost anywhere and spend the night. Be careful not to stay on private property.
Does the right of public access apply to all areas of nature?
However, the right of public access not only states that one may stay in the forest and relax in nature, but also stipulates how one should behave on the water, whether fishing is permitted in the respective region, and contains guidelines for making fires in nature.
For example, you're allowed to go out on the water, but not everywhere, as this isn't generally covered by the right of public access, but is regulated by region. The same applies to hunting, which requires a separate permit. Building fires in nature is only permitted in some areas and, like cooking with a gas stove in nature, is subject to strict guidelines. Especially in summer, you should definitely find out in advance where you're allowed to build fires and cook, as otherwise, in the worst case, a forest fire could result.
As you can see, the right of public access is quite extensive and not the same in every country. So, please find out exactly what you are allowed to do at your destination and what isn't. The general rule is that everything is forbidden unless it's explicitly permitted.
You should also consider which route you want to take beforehand. Not all parking lots or areas where overnight camping is permitted have shore power connections that can fully recharge your camper's batteries or allow you to use them for cooking or heating.
If you no longer want to rely on shore power and want to be completely self-sufficient and free on the road, then we would be happy to advise you on this topic. Simply Contact form and our team will work with you to find a solution!
Furthermore, you can directly view our Complete motorhome sets or you can put together your own products. We hope you enjoy your next trip through Scandinavia.
