Vanlife in the Dolomites

Van life in the Dolomites is an unforgettable experience, offering flexibility, breathtaking views, and the freedom to explore at your own pace. We’ve been traveling in our campervan for a few years now, and it’s my favorite way to explore the mountains affordably. However, there are some important things to consider before embarking on your van life adventure in this beautiful region.

Seasons Matter:

The Dolomites can become quite crowded with campervans during the summer, which is why we typically prefer to explore the region in the off-season or focus on quieter, less-traveled areas. The surge of van lifers can sometimes be frustrating for locals, as campervans usually bring in less revenue than hotel guests. This makes it even more important to be respectful and discreet when parking somewhere.

Key Tips for Van Life in the Dolomites:

1. Don’t make it obvious: Avoid putting out tables, chairs, or awnings when you're not staying at a designated campsite. Keeping things low-key and discreet helps ensure a smooth experience and reduces the risk of restrictions being put in place.

2. Respect local rules: Wild camping is prohibited in South Tyrol and many other regions in Italy. Setting up outside of designated campsites can result in fines of €100 to €500. However, the good news is there are plenty of campsites and motorhome parking areas where you are allowed to stay. Be mindful of signs indicating where camping is not permitted, and use tools like the App Park4Night to find approved spots.

3. Check reviews on Park4Night: If you’re unsure about a spot, always check the reviews on Park4Night. This app is a fantastic resource to find up-to-date information about parking spots and official campsites that have been reviewed by other travellers.

4. Leave No Trace: Be sure to dispose of waste properly and dont dump grey water or any waste in nature. This helps preserve the stunning environment of the Dolomites for future travelers.

5. Plan ahead for services: Many campervans, especially rental ones, only come with 12V outlets and USB adapters, while 230V outlets usually require an external power hookup. If you plan to charge your drone or laptop, you may need an ADAPTER. Check with your van rental company about what’s included, and consider packing any missing items in advance, such as cooking utensils or cleaning supplies.

6. Be mindful of temperatures: If you're sleeping at higher altitudes, even in the summer, temperatures can drop significantly at night. In spring and autumn, the nights can be quite cold, so it’s a good idea to pack a compact sleeping bag just in case, especially if your van’s heating system isn't the best. On the other hand, during the day, temperatures can soar, especially in southern areas like around Lake Garda. If you plan to spend a lot of time in the van, such as working on your laptop, it might get quite warm inside.

7. Pack efficiently: When packing for van life, think about how much space you have in your vehicle. Some vans have big storage for large hard-shell suitcases, while others may not. A larger duffle bag or collapsible bag might be a better option to save space. I also find packing cubes extremely helpful for organizing and keeping things neat inside the van. You’ll never have to worry about your clothes or gear getting jumbled up, and everything stays in place.

8. Think about the little things: Don’t forget essentials like spices, salt & pepper, and oil for cooking—either buy them once you’re there or bring a small selection with you. It’s also a good idea to pack slippers or flip-flops for inside the van, so you don’t have to walk around with dirty shoes (I love them when its really cold)

9. Plan for water and waste disposal: Always check in advance on for example Par4Night where you can refill your water, dispose of grey/black water, or even charge your batteries if necessary. While there are a few places that offer these services in the Dolomites, they are not always readily available, so planning is key.

Camping in South Tyrol:

In conclusion, van life in the Dolomites is an incredible way to experience this stunning region, but it’s important to plan ahead, respect local regulations, and be prepared for the practicalities of van living. If you follow the rules, stay discreet, and prepare for the elements, you’ll have a smooth and unforgettable journey through the Dolomites!