How to Plan Your Balkan Road Trip?
Nejc Martinčič
11/21/2024
Hey future traveler!
Planning a road trip through the Balkans is an exciting adventure, but choosing the right camper van and preparing for the journey can make all the difference. Here’s how to plan your perfect road trip, from choosing the best van to finding unique places to stay and destinations to visit.
Which Camper Van is Right for Me?
We offer a variety of camper vans to suit different tastes and preferences. The right van for you depends on your travel interests, the number of people in your group, and how much time you have.
Nostalgic Adventurist
If you're looking for nostalgia, adventure, and a unique experience, the VW T3 or Nissan Datsun would be your ideal choice. These old-school vans are perfect for travelers who want to slow down, enjoy the journey, and experience local life more intimately. While they are slower and don’t take highways, they will reward you with views and experiences you wouldn’t get otherwise.
Nostalgic Explorer
For a blend of retro charm and modern comfort, our VW T4 models are an excellent choice. These vans offer a faster drive compared to the T3, allowing you to use highways (vignette included in the basic quote) and have a bit more power to explore further. With a daily mileage limit of 300 km, it’s perfect for those who want both a nostalgic feel and efficiency.
Modern Nomad
If you prefer speed and modern comfort, our VW T5 and VW T6 models, or our SUV Drina and Tara, are perfect for you. These vans come with AC, airbags, and all the modern amenities to ensure a smooth and comfortable road trip.
When Should I Book the Campervan?
Booking your camper van in advance is essential, especially during peak months like July and August. These months can fill up quickly, so we recommend booking at least two months ahead of time to secure your desired van.
Campervan Booking Process
Choose Your Pick-up and Drop-off Locations: Start by selecting the locations and dates for your trip.
Select Your Camper Van: After filtering available vans, choose the one that best suits your needs.
Extra Equipment & Insurance: Add any extra equipment or insurance options you may need.
Fill in Personal Info & Pay: Complete your reservation by providing your personal details and paying for the booking.
Safety Deposit
Different camper van owners may offer different options for the safety deposit. This can be in cash, bank transfer, or credit card authorization at the time of pick-up. The amount of the safety deposit depends on the chosen insurance type.
Pick-up and Drop-off Locations
We have a network of partners across the Balkan region, including Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro, Italy, and Austria. You can pick up your camper van from various locations with no delivery fee, and most locations offer free parking if you arrive by car. Pick up and drop off locations can be found on the profile of each individual campervan.
Where to Sleep?
During your road trip, you'll want to mix up your sleeping locations. Here are some great options for where to rest during your adventure:
Campsites
The best website to find campsites in the Balkans is www.avtokampi.si, which offers a wide selection of campsites in the region. Check out the one that suits your location and preferences.
Free or Cheap Camper Van Stops
Camper van stops are a budget-friendly and eco-friendly option. Most stops provide electricity and water, and while you may not have access to showers, you can enjoy bathing in the region's beautiful rivers and lakes.
Useful websites for finding camper van stops are www.camperstop.si and www.avtokampi.si.
Apps for Sleeping Options
Popular apps to help find places to sleep are PARK4NIGHT and iOverlander. These apps feature user-reviewed places to park overnight, including off-the-beaten-path spots.
Farms, Restaurants, Friendly Locals
Don't be afraid to ask locals! Many farms, restaurants, and private properties will allow you to park and sleep overnight in their backyard. It’s a great way to meet people and support local communities.
Finding Your Perfect Destinations
For destination ideas, visit the "Destinations" and "Road Stories" sections of our blog. You’ll find plenty of inspiration for your Balkan road trip. Each country also has its own travel website, and every municipality provides more detailed information on activities, phone numbers, and recommendations.
If you need further help planning, feel free to contact us. While planning is important, remember that the best trips often come from spontaneity. So, book your van, hit the road, and enjoy the adventure!