For travel professionals tracking budget-conscious family travel trends, a new study from car rental comparison platform DiscoverCars.com confirms Portugal as the most affordable European destination for a week-long camping holiday this summer. The analysis combines campsite fees and car rental costs across popular sites, offering a clear benchmark for tour operators, travel agents, and destination marketers.
Cost Breakdown: Portugal Leads, Spain and Austria Follow
According to the research, a family of four can expect to pay a total of $383 (€363) for a week in Portugal, comprising $232 (€220) for campsite fees and $151 (€143) for car hire. Spain ranks second at $420 (€398), while Austria takes third place at $470 (€445). The United Kingdom ($532 / €504) and Sweden ($583 / €552) round out the top five.
At the other end of the spectrum, the Netherlands emerged as the most expensive destination at $1,080 (€1,021), followed by Switzerland ($1,013 / €958) and Norway ($820 / €776). Finland ($673 / €637) and France ($664 / €629) complete the list of pricier options.
Industry Implications for Summer 2025
The findings underscore a growing opportunity for travel intermediaries and destination management companies to package affordable road-trip itineraries. Portugal's combination of scenic campsites, well-maintained roads, and competitive car rental rates makes it a strong candidate for family-focused promotions. Tour operators could consider bundling campsite bookings with rental cars from providers like Europcar or Sixt, leveraging the cost advantage to attract price-sensitive travelers.
Aleksandrs Buraks, Head of Growth at DiscoverCars.com, commented: “One of the best ways to enjoy summer with your family is by bundling your camping gear into a car and heading off to explore a scenic destination. Our research found the best destinations for a budget-friendly family camping trip this summer, and found that Portugal is the place to go!”
The study also highlights the importance of advance booking. As summer approaches, travel agents should advise clients to secure campsites and rental cars early to lock in the best rates. This aligns with broader trends seen in recent data from platforms like Trip.com, which shows travelers increasingly opting for shorter trips and cooler destinations.
Broader Context: Portugal's Rising Appeal
Portugal's affordability extends beyond camping. The country has been gaining traction as a year-round destination, with airlines such as TAP Air Portugal and Ryanair expanding routes from North America and Europe. For travel advisors, this presents an opportunity to cross-sell camping packages alongside city breaks in Lisbon or Porto, or coastal stays in the Algarve.
As the travel industry gears up for summer 2025, these cost comparisons offer actionable insights. Whether for independent families booking their own trips or agents curating group packages, Portugal's position as the most affordable camping destination is a data point worth leveraging.
