Traveling by camper van in Denmark: practical guide
Denmark offers well-maintained roads and a developed camper van infrastructure, but imposes strict rules that every traveler must know. Between the environmental zones of major cities and restrictions on wild camping, good preparation is essential for a hassle-free stay.
Driving and road regulations
On Danish roads, respect speed limits: 80 km/h on national roads and 130 km/h on highways (reduced to 110 km/h in case of rain). Camper vans over 3.5 tons are limited to 80 km/h everywhere. Highways are free, but some bridges like the Storebælt and Øresund are toll bridges. Wearing a seatbelt is mandatory, low beam lights must remain on at all times, and the maximum blood alcohol level is 0.5 g/l. Radar checks are frequent, and Danes strictly adhere to the traffic code.
Environmental zones exist in Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Odense, Aarhus, and Aalborg. Pre-registration of your vehicle on miljoezoner.dk is mandatory and free for all foreign vehicles. Diesel camper vans must have a particulate filter or meet European standard 5 (standard 6 if they weigh more than 3.5 tons). A fine of 1,500 DKK awaits offenders, and cameras record license plates in these zones.
Sleeping and connecting in a camper van
Wild camping is strictly prohibited in Denmark on public roads, beaches, and most forests. However, about 40 designated forest areas allow bivouacking with a maximum of two tents and three people per tent for one night. You can temporarily stop at parking lots and rest areas along highways to rest, but without setting up outdoor furniture. Overnight parking in a camper van, even discreetly, is not allowed outside designated areas.
Campsites are numerous and welcoming in Denmark, with reasonable rates. Free apps like Park4night, Campercontact, and Caramaps help you locate equipped camper van areas and campsites. A camping card will allow you to benefit from discounts. Some parking lots, like the one at the port of Aarhus, offer free but limited spots, requiring a parking disc to indicate your arrival time.
Local tips and safety
Parking checks are very frequent in Denmark, especially in tourist areas and cities. Local authorities strictly enforce regulations and do not hesitate to penalize violations, which can quickly add to your budget. Strictly adhere to signage and parking rules to avoid fines.
To enter Denmark, a valid identity card is sufficient as the country is part of the European Union. Danes are civic on the road, and traffic is generally smooth. Remember to equip yourself with a parking disc, easily found at gas stations for a few Danish crowns. Regularly check miljoezoner.dk to verify specific requirements for your vehicle before crossing the environmental zones of major cities.