Finding a cheap campsite in 2026 is not just a matter of luck. Camping prices can vary significantly depending on the dates, destination, type of accommodation, and even when you book. The good news is that with a few simple tips, it is still possible to enjoy affordable camping holidays without blowing your budget.
In this guide, we explain step by step how to choose the best time to travel, find lesser-known camping destinations, compare campsite deals smartly, and save money once you arrive. Whether you are looking for a tent pitch, a mobile home rental, or a family campsite with a swimming pool, here are the best tips to pay less for your camping holiday in 2026.
How can you find a genuinely cheap campsite for your holiday? The answer is simple: be smart with your dates and destination. Travel outside the peak summer period from mid-July to late August, and be open to exploring regions that are a little less obvious but just as charming.
Once you have these two golden rules in mind, all that is left is to use a good campsite comparison site to find the rare gem that fits your budget. Ready? Here is your step-by-step guide.
Contents
- What is the best way to find an affordable campsite?
- When should you travel to find a cheap campsite?
- Where can you find the best destinations for affordable camping?
- How can you use a comparison site properly to find the right campsite?
- How can you save money once you are there?
- FAQ: Your questions about cheap campsites
What is the best way to find an affordable campsite?
Finding a cheap campsite mostly comes down to flexibility and good booking habits. By choosing your dates carefully, looking beyond the best-known destinations and using an effective campsite comparison site, you can cut the cost of your accommodation significantly without sacrificing the quality of your holiday.
Planning a camping holiday should not become a financial headache. With a little organisation, it is perfectly possible to find a pleasant, well-located stay that suits your budget. Here are the three habits to adopt if you want to save money easily.
In the end, finding a cheap campsite comes down to a few simple habits: staying flexible with your dates, not limiting yourself to the most famous destinations, comparing offers on verycamping and booking at the right moment to get the best prices.
Make the most of a very competitive market
France is one of Europe’s leading camping destinations, and that strong competition works in favour of travellers. With a huge choice of accommodation, from family holiday parks to smaller and simpler campsites, prices can vary widely depending on the region, dates and level of comfort you are looking for.
For example, a week in the south of France in low season can cost between £130 and £430. In the middle of August, the same stay can easily double or even triple in price. That is why flexibility is one of the best ways to find a cheaper campsite.
Our tip: do not necessarily look for the cheapest campsite, but for the one that offers the best value for your needs. A slightly more expensive mobile home or static caravan with a well-equipped kitchen, for example, could help you save a lot on meals and avoid eating out too often.
With thousands of options available, comparing on verycamping is no longer a luxury; it is essential. It is the simplest way to sort, filter and view the best offers in just a few clicks. If you want a clear starting point, explore the campsites available across France before narrowing your search by region, facilities and budget.
When should you travel to find a cheap campsite?
The best way to find a cheap campsite is to avoid the very high season, especially the period between mid-July and late August. By travelling in May, June or September, prices can be much lower, sometimes up to half the price depending on the destination and type of accommodation.
Shifting your holiday by just a few weeks can therefore make a real difference to your budget. It is also a chance to enjoy quieter campsites, less crowded beaches and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Make the most of early season and May bank holiday weekends
Spring is a great time to go camping, even if it is not always the first season people think of. Temperatures become more pleasant, the countryside looks beautiful, walking trails are quieter and prices often remain much more affordable than in summer.
The long weekends in May and June are perfect for a few days in the fresh air without waiting for the school summer holidays. This can also be a good option for couples or families with young children, especially when travel dates are still fairly flexible. You can enjoy destinations that are in high demand in July and August, but with far fewer people and a calmer atmosphere.
Late season: the insider tip for paying less
September is one of the best times to go camping on a smaller budget. In many regions, especially in the south of France, the weather is still pleasant, the sea is still warm and campsites are much less crowded than in the middle of summer.
The benefit is simple: you often enjoy the same facilities, such as the swimming pool, entertainment and on-site services, but with more peace and much lower prices.
A mobile home for 4 people rented for around £1,000 per week in late July can, in some campsites, fall to £425 or £500 in early September. For similar facilities, the saving can be substantial.
It is also an ideal time if you are looking for a quieter holiday. For a peaceful lakeside alternative, consider campsites around Lac d’Orient, where nature, water activities and quieter stays are a big part of the appeal.
Where can you find the best destinations for affordable camping?
To find an affordable campsite, do not limit yourself to the most sought-after seaside destinations. Inland regions, river valleys, lake areas and countryside locations often offer beautiful scenery, well-equipped campsites and prices that are more accessible than the coast in the middle of summer.
By choosing a slightly less obvious destination, you can keep much better control of your budget. For the same price, you may be able to travel for longer, choose more comfortable accommodation or keep more money aside for activities once you are there.
Think beyond the obvious: our favourite regions
Instead of heading straight for the Mediterranean coast in August, why not explore somewhere different?
- The Ardèche for river adventures and family campsites: This is a brilliant region for families who want pools, slides, kids’ clubs and plenty of outdoor activities without always paying coastal prices. Between canoeing, cave visits, local markets and river swimming, it is a strong choice for a budget-friendly camping holiday with lots to do.
- Auvergne and its volcanic landscapes: Looking for a cooler holiday away from the crowds? Picture yourself near lakes, hills and wide-open countryside. It is a dream destination for walkers and nature lovers, with campsites that often offer spacious pitches and scenic views for less than many high-demand coastal areas.
- The Loire Valley around Saumur or the lakes around Lac d’Orient: If you prefer castles, vineyards, cycle routes or lakeside stays, these areas can be excellent alternatives to the busiest seaside resorts. They are ideal if you want to find a cheap campsite with more space, quieter surroundings and easy access to outdoor activities.
To give you an idea, a well-equipped campsite around Saumur can be a smart-value alternative to a peak-season stay on the French Riviera. By looking beyond the most in-demand destinations, you can find very good options without blowing your budget.
If you would rather stay closer to home, the same logic applies in the UK. You can compare popular seaside options such as campsites in Cornwall, family-friendly countryside breaks in Devon, or nature-focused stays in the New Forest National Park. A final tip: do not rely only on the star rating, as it can push prices up. Take the time to read reviews from other campers and check the location carefully. A well-reviewed campsite in the right place can sometimes be worth much more than an official rating.
How can you use a comparison site properly to find the right campsite?
Using a comparison site such as verycamping is the simplest and quickest way to get an overview of available offers. The secret is not just to sort by price, but to use filters such as accommodation type, maximum budget, swimming pool and other essentials to refine your search properly.
Let’s be honest: nobody wants to spend hours scrolling through ten different websites. This is where verycamping makes things easier by bringing thousands of offers together in one place. It saves a huge amount of time, but the real trick is knowing how to use the tool well.
Refine your search to find the right campsite, not just the cheapest one
Many people instinctively sort results from lowest to highest price. That is a good start, but it is rarely enough. The real tip is to use the filters to find the campsite that genuinely suits both your plans and your wallet.
Think of filters as your best allies for a targeted search:
- Budget first: Set a maximum price per night or for the full stay. This is the first step to removing anything out of reach and focusing on realistic options.
- What kind of camper are you? You will not be looking for the same thing if you are pitching a tent as you would if you want the comfort of a mobile home or static caravan. Target the exact type of accommodation, whether that means a basic pitch or a fully equipped mobile home.
- Your holiday must-haves: Is a swimming pool non-negotiable for the children? Do you always travel with your dog? Tick boxes such as “water park” or “pets allowed” so you only see campsites that match your essential criteria.
By combining these filters, you create a tailor-made search that takes you straight to the most relevant options.
Our tip: do not focus only on the nightly price. A campsite that looks slightly more expensive but includes access to a great water park or free children’s entertainment may work out cheaper overall. Always think about the total cost of your holiday.
How can you save money once you are there?
To keep your holiday affordable, cook as many meals as possible yourself and make the most of free activities offered by nature. Avoid paid extras such as sheet hire or end-of-stay cleaning fees by bringing your own essentials where possible.
That’s it: you have found the perfect option and your stay is booked. But the money-saving is not over yet. One of the first things to check when choosing a mobile home or bungalow is whether it has a kitchenette. Even a basic one can make a real difference to your budget.
Get cooking, even if it is just on a camping stove
Cooking on holiday is not a chore; it can be part of the adventure. You do not need to be a great chef to eat well.
- For breakfast: Pop to the local village market for seasonal fruit, pick up some cereal, and you are sorted.
- At lunchtime, go for a picnic: A rice salad or generous sandwiches are perfect if you do not want to interrupt a day of walking or relaxing on the beach.
- In the evening, enjoy a barbecue: Many campsites have designated areas for this. It is a great way to enjoy a sociable meal without spending much at all.
Watch out for extras that can push up the cost
Some additional costs can add up quickly and turn a good deal into an unpleasant surprise. Keep an eye on:
- Sheet and towel hire.
- The end-of-stay cleaning fee.
- Bike hire or other leisure equipment.
- Paid access to some facilities, such as mini-golf.
A regular camper’s tip: If you have enough room in the car, bring your own bed linen and towels. As for cleaning, a proper tidy-up before you leave can help you avoid a fee that is often quite steep.
Fortunately, France and the UK both offer plenty of options for keeping your spending under control. The key is to compare destinations, check what is included in the price and avoid paying extra for things you could bring or do yourself.
FAQ: Your questions about cheap campsites
1. When is the best time to book a cheap campsite?
The best time is, without doubt, as early as possible. Early booking offers, often available until January for the following summer, usually give you the best prices and the widest choice. If you are flexible, last-minute deals can be an option, but the choice will be much more limited.
2. Is an unrated campsite a good budget option?
Yes, it can be an excellent choice, but it is worth being careful. An unrated campsite can be a hidden gem, but it can also disappoint. A star rating guarantees a minimum level of facilities and quality. The best habit is to read recent reviews from other travellers on verycamping before booking.
3. How can you reduce your food budget while camping?
The key is to cook for yourself. Prepare simple meals such as salads, pasta or grilled food. Shop at supermarkets outside the campsite and make the most of local markets for fresh seasonal produce. It is cheaper and often much better.
4. What is the cheapest type of campsite accommodation?
A basic pitch for a tent remains the most budget-friendly option. However, if you do not have your own equipment, renting a mobile home, static caravan or bungalow in low season or in a less touristy region can offer excellent value for money, especially for families.
