Camping with a roof tent – laws, rules and tips

The right to roam does not apply to vehicles

The right to roam (allemansrätten) gives us freedom to move on foot in nature and camp for a night or two on someone else's land. But overnight stays in or on a vehicle – such as a car with a roof tent – are not covered by the right to roam. The Swedish Environmental Protection Agency has confirmed that roof tents, motorhomes and campervans are not counted as regular "camping" in the sense of the right to roam, as motor vehicles can cause more damage and disturbance in nature than traditional camping.

Off-road driving law – no driving in terrain

A basic rule is that you may not drive or park your vehicle in natural terrain. All natural land – forests, beaches, meadows, pastures, parks, lawns etc – is classified as terrain where motor vehicles are prohibited according to the off-road driving law. This applies throughout Sweden and even landowners cannot grant exceptions. You must therefore stay on proper roads and parking areas.

Parking next to the road: You may park right next to a road (or in a lay-by) provided you don't damage the ground, hinder the landowner or block traffic. Choose ground with a durable surface where the car's wheels won't cause damage.

How long can you stay? There is no exact time limit in the law for how long you may park along a regular road. In practice, however, you should not stay more than a night or two in the same place when wild camping, in accordance with the rule of thumb for camping. Near residential buildings, you should always ask the landowner for permission.

Local regulations and municipal rules

Rules can differ between municipalities. Many municipalities have no special prohibitions against sleeping in your car or staying overnight in a roof tent, as long as you're parked according to normal parking rules. Other municipalities – especially in popular tourist areas – may have introduced bans on camping in public places. Check the local rules for the municipality you're in via their website.

Parking vs. camping – where's the line?

Authorities usually view a parked vehicle differently from one that's camping with equipment set up. Simply parking your car and sleeping in the roof tent is usually tolerated where parking is allowed. But as soon as you start setting up a lot of equipment – such as an awning, tables and chairs – it's counted as camping, which is often regulated outside campsites. Be discreet and don't take up more space than necessary.

Wild camping in nature

Wild camping means staying in nature outside organized campsites. You may stay overnight in your roof tent as long as the place you've parked is legal and you don't disturb anyone or break any rules. Find a lay-by or forest road a good distance from the nearest residence (preferably >100–150 meters). You must stay right next to the road with your car. The basic rule is maximum one night in the same place, and always show consideration by being quiet, keeping the area clean and leaving the place as you found it.

Rest areas along roads

Rest areas are primarily intended for temporary breaks, but you're generally also allowed to stay overnight briefly. The basic rule in Sweden is that you may stay at a rest area for a maximum of 24 hours on weekdays. On weekends, you may stay until the next weekday unless otherwise stated. Check for any additional signs. Remember that rest areas are for rest, not camping holidays – stay within the allowed day.

Motorhome parking spots (Ställplatser)

A ställplats is a special parking area for overnight stays with camping vehicles. These can be run by municipalities, harbors or private individuals and are usually simpler than full campsites. Some are free, others charge a fee. For you with a roof tent, these can be a good alternative if you want to stay legally and perhaps get some service. Just check the rules for the specific spot.

Campsites

Campsites are of course the safest option – there you can always stay overnight when you pay for a pitch. With a roof tent, you're usually counted as a camping vehicle/guest with car. At a campsite, you can stay multiple nights and have access to facilities like toilets, showers, kitchens and electricity. Advance booking may be needed during peak season.

Finland

A strong right to roam applies. Wild camping is permitted as long as you follow the rules – keep distance from houses and don't drive off-road.

Denmark

Wild camping is not permitted. No right to roam-like rules – you must stick to campsites or designated areas.

Germany

Wild camping is generally prohibited and can result in high fines. In practice, there's an extensive network of Stellplätze (motorhome spots) where you can stay overnight legally.

The Alps (Austria, Switzerland)

Wild camping is largely prohibited. Strictly enforced with fines. Use campsites or official motorhome spots.

Southern Europe (Italy, Spain, Croatia)

Very strict bans on wild camping. Fines are regularly issued. You're always directed to official campsites.

United Kingdom

In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, wild camping is prohibited without permission. Scotland has a right to roam for hiking and camping, but this does not apply to vehicle camping – sleeping in vehicles outside campsites is prohibited.

Don't disturb – don't destroy

Always leave the place as you found it or even cleaner. Take all rubbish with you and leave no trace. Never throw disposable grills, cans or cigarette butts in nature.

Toilet matters

If there's no toilet, go a good distance from residences and watercourses, dig a small hole and cover it properly afterwards. Take used toilet paper with you in a bag.

Respect animals and nature

Avoid disturbing grazing animals and wildlife. Don't pick protected plants and don't break branches from living trees. Only drive and park on durable ground.

Fire

Always check for any fire bans. Use existing fire pits if available. Never light fires directly on rock surfaces and make sure the fire is completely extinguished before leaving.

Sound and light

Keep noise levels down, especially in the evening and at night. Avoid playing loud music. Use a headlamp instead of the car's headlights.

Respect others and private land

Keep distance from other campers and avoid setting up right next to someone's property. Ask landowners for permission if you want to stay overnight near someone's farm.

Follow signs and instructions

Respect private road signs, parking prohibitions and no camping signs. If someone asks you to move, take it in good spirit and move on without argument.

Use services when available

Empty rubbish and grey water at designated places. Use toilets at rest areas. Take advantage of facilities at campsites and motorhome spots.