Hi all,debating whether to take,my van(slightly smaller than transit ) or car,usually take car,but this time taking electric bikes,thinking the van would be better for security and weather proof,and more room,but would it be ok to get into French sites for camping,we are moving around,and being flexible,in June.we will be using fairly quiet sites.Thank you Brendan
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Not me, but we travel down to the south of france with my brother-in-law and he drives his large commercial van down, camping at multiple campsites over the weeks we are there and there has never been any issues.
Thank you,for both replies,I’m going to be flexible,look for nice weather,but keep north if too hot,that’s great to know Jaywood ,so sounds I’ll be alright
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Never had a problem. We went several times with our Citroen Dispatch & tent with bikes & stayed on a wide spectrum of sites. Never had a problem in UK either, even on CCC sites, although I know the issue exists here. Eventually converted van to a camper.
There's usually a wide range of units/tow vehicles on French campsites, in fact a couple of pitches down from us on the site where we are currently (Le Bois Vert, Parthenay), there is a biggish white panel van with reflective stripes on it, with a tent. At our last site, there were a couple of groups taking part in a sporting event in the town, with a variety of cars, vans (one we saw with an air bed in the back!) and tents.
In June, on quiet sites, I can't imagine there'd be any problem.
It's generally only vans (or cars) towing large, twin axle caravans that often not allowed.
If you'd prefer to be sure, then an email/phone call in advance is always an option (though you may not always get a reply to an email).
Anything goes on French campsites. Campers sleep in cars. Your van will be no issue on any French campsite. Have you checked price on ferry though ? Commercial vehicles often cost more to ship than cars despite being same size.
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: Taking commercial van to France
via mobile 26/5/2026 at 6:54am
