Make the Most of Your Camping Trip to Switzerland On a Budget

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Switzerland is a dream destination for many travellers and holiday makers. It boasts breathtaking landscapes, towering mountains and over 1,500 vibrant blue lakes. However, it also has a reputation for being one of the most expensive countries to visit! If you are planning a campervan holiday in Switzerland but want to keep costs down, this guide will help you navigate vanlife in Switzerland on a budget, with practical tips on affordable campsites, free activities and money-saving strategies.

Before diving in, be sure to check out our Switzerland Ultimate Road Trip Travel Guide. For less than the price of a coffee, this guide provides a detailed 5-day itinerary tailored for families, essential travel tips, a detailed Google Map and recommendations to help you make the most of your budget-friendly Switzerland adventure.

Is Switzerland Expensive for Camping?

Camping is the most affordable way to explore Switzerland, but prices vary depending on location and season. Campsites in popular tourist areas like Grindelwald and Interlaken tend to be the most expensive. However, many campsites offer discounts for longer stays, with some requiring a minimum booking of 4-5 nights in peak season. Expect to pay between £40-£70 per night for a family of four.

Some of the best budget-friendly campsites in Switzerland include:

Manor Farm, Interlaken-Thunersee

A beautiful camp site on the edge of stunning Lake Thun. An ideal base for any camping holiday in Switzerland.

Camping Jungfrau, Lauterbrunnen

There is so much to discover in the Jungfrau region and Lauterbrunnen is one of the best camping sites in Switzerland for families. An ideal base, with all the facilities you could want.

Camping Aaregg, Lake Brienz

A mixture of lakeside and shady pitches in an ideal location situated next to a beautiful, calm and quiet lake with turquoise water.

Is Wild Camping Legal in Switzerland?

Wild camping in Switzerland is generally tolerated above the treeline in remote mountain areas, but it is strictly forbidden in Swiss National Parks and hunting grounds. If caught camping illegally, fines can be steep, reportedly starting at €1,000.

To find low-cost places to stay, use the Park4Night app, which helps vanlifers locate affordable or free camping spots. During our Switzerland road trip, we found options ranging from £15-£25 per night using the app. If you're new to Park4Night, check out our Park4Night Made Easy Guide for tips on getting the best out of this essential vanlife tool.

How can I save money on food in Switzerland?

Eating out in Switzerland can be extremely costly, especially for families. To stay within budget consider the following:

  • Shop at Aldi Suisse, which offers the most affordable groceries.

  • Cook your own meals to avoid high restaurant prices.

  • Avoid expensive items like chicken, beef, and alcohol, which can be 25% more expensive than in the UK.

  • Opt for pork, or vegetarian meals as more budget-friendly alternatives.

What free things can I do in Switzerland?

Keeping your holiday budget-friendly means making the most of free activities. Here are some of the best ways to explore Switzerland without spending a fortune:

  • Explore charming towns – wander the streets, visit historic churches and enjoy the local atmosphere.

  • Join a free walking tour – many cities offer guided tours where you only tip what you can afford.

  • Swim in Switzerland’s stunning lakes – many lakes have free access, perfect for a refreshing dip.

  • Hike the mountain trails – Switzerland is famous for its hiking routes, offering incredible views and encounters with bell-wearing cows!

  • Visit waterfalls – Staubbach Falls in Lauterbrunnen is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Switzerland - and one of 72!

  • Explore Swiss cities – Lucerne, Bern, Interlaken, Thun and Fribourg are fantastic cities to visit.

More Switzerland Travel Resources

If you are planning a campervan holiday in Switzerland, you might also want to check out these helpful guides:

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