German rest areas unfriendly for campers

ADAC examined 80 of the more than 400 parking areas along the main routes for facilities for campers. Almost all of the reviewed rest areas were found to be lacking in this regard.

Too few parking spaces

ADAC notes that finding a parking space for a motorhome or caravan is a difficult task. A van-sized motorhome can still fit into regular parking spaces, but for a larger motorhome or caravan, it becomes a real challenge.

Only a quarter of the rest areas tested by ADAC have designated parking spaces for large motorhomes and caravans. At 55 locations, testers searched in vain for such spaces. At the remaining five rest areas, motorhomes and caravans have to share parking spaces with trucks. This is far from ideal, especially for families with children, as the researchers point out.

Poor signage

If there are parking spaces, it’s difficult to find them. At only 17 of the 80 tested rest areas are motorhome and caravan drivers guided to their spots with clear signs from the entrance. At six others, the signage suddenly stops or only starts halfway through the rest area. At 57 locations, there is no signage at all, or only truck parking spaces are indicated.

No services for motorhomes

Services and facilities for motorhomes are also lacking at German rest areas. Disposing of waste water? Filling up with fresh water? Emptying the cassette toilet? Forget it. None of the 80 tested rest areas offer these services. Charging the battery is also not possible, as CEE sockets are nowhere to be found.

Charging an electric tow car is nearly impossible

ADAC also notes that there is much room for improvement when it comes to charging stations for electric cars at rest areas. Most rest areas have too few charging points, but if you’re towing a caravan with your EV, charging becomes a real issue. Only 4 out of the 80 locations tested have space for both the charging point and a car with a caravan. In all other cases, disconnecting the caravan is necessary.

Toilets and restaurants are fine

Fortunately, there are some bright spots. The ADAC testers generally found the sanitary facilities to be good. They were also pleased with the offerings at the highway restaurants: plenty of choice and decent quality. However, the prices weren’t as cheerful. If you want to enjoy a Bratwurst or Frikadelle, you’ll have to dig deep into your wallet. But that can only happen once you’ve found a spot for your motorhome or car with a caravan…