The autumn holidays 2026 have started, and for many caravan and campervan owners, the camping season is far from over. Since October 5, Hessen, Rheinland-Pfalz, and Saarland have been on holiday. In the coming weeks, the other federal states will follow suit.
Camping in autumn is no longer a niche topic, as recent booking data from PiNCAMP demonstrates. Bookings for stays in September and October in Bavaria were recorded up to early September and were 76% higher than in the previous year. 18% of the Germany trips booked via PiNCAMP in these two months were directed to Bavaria, while Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and Schleswig-Holstein each accounted for 15%. These figures specifically relate to bookings made through PiNCAMP and not the entire German camping market.
Autumn camping can be significantly cheaper
Besides less crowded destinations, the price can also be a deciding factor for autumn travel. According to a PiNCAMP analysis, a camping night for a family with two adults and one child in Bavaria costs on average around €38 during the off-season. In July and August, the average price is around €42.
In classic southern European holiday destinations, the difference is even more pronounced. The analysis states that camping prices in Italy and Spain are on average 38% lower in the off-season compared to the peak season, and in Croatia, they are even 53% lower. These figures are based on seasonal prices from around 2,300 campsites, excluding last-minute live offers.
Heating becomes part of the pre-trip checklist in autumn
However, the preparation changes with the arrival of autumn. While heating was rarely an issue in high summer, it can now make the difference between a pleasant evening in the camper and a chilly one.
Before departure, it is advisable to test the functionality of the heating system. For gas heaters, it is also important to check whether the gas supply is sufficient for the planned trip. Particularly for caravans that remain on a campsite for several days, the consumption can be significantly higher in cold nights than in summer.
Electricity supply also requires more attention. With shorter days, lighting is used longer, and depending on the heating system, fans, controls, and other appliances consume electrical energy. Those traveling off-grid should keep a close eye on their battery and power supply.
Wet clothing brings moisture into caravans and campervans
Another autumn concern is condensation. Rain gear, damp shoes, cooking, and multiple occupants introduce moisture into the relatively small interior space.
At the same time, windows and exterior walls are much colder than in summer. Regular ventilation and adequate heating help remove moisture from the vehicle, whether it is a caravan, campervan, or a fully equipped camper.
Before setting off, it is also advisable to check tires, lighting, windshield wipers, and antifreeze. Those heading toward the Alps should monitor weather and road conditions in real-time, as autumn can bring winter-like conditions in higher elevations.
With the upcoming holidays, road traffic is expected to increase
The ADAC anticipates increased traffic on highways during the autumn holidays. For the upcoming weekend of October 9–11, the club expects more traffic jams, particularly on Friday afternoons and Saturday mornings. Additionally, around 1,100 highway construction sites are currently complicating travel. However, traffic volume is expected to remain significantly lower than during the summer holidays.
For campers, this marks a travel season with its own unique character: less summer bustle, partially lower camping costs, and destinations that present themselves entirely differently in autumn. However, caravans and campervans require a bit more preparation than in July.