Paying for Your Camping Stay and Tourist Tax: What You Need to Know

Before heading off on your camping holiday, it is important to understand how to pay for your stay and any additional charges you may need to pay on site, including the tourist tax. Payment terms may vary from one campsite to another. Some require a deposit when booking, while others ask for the balance to be paid before arrival or upon check-in. We therefore recommend reading the campsite's terms and conditions before making your reservation.

When Do You Need to Pay for Your Camping Stay?

When booking a campsite, a deposit is usually required to confirm your reservation. The amount of the deposit and the payment terms vary depending on the campsite. The remaining balance may be due before your arrival, according to the conditions agreed at the time of booking. Some campsites also allow guests to pay upon arrival or before checking into their accommodation. These payment practices are common in the tourism industry and help campsites secure bookings for pitches and accommodation. Before confirming your reservation, be sure to review the campsite's cancellation policy, modification terms, and any applicable fees.

Can You Pay for a Camping Holiday with Holiday Vouchers?

Holiday vouchers can be used at many campsites, although not all campsites accept them. Before booking, check whether your chosen campsite is a partner of the French National Agency for Holiday Vouchers (ANCV).

Acceptance conditions may also vary between campsites. Some allow holiday vouchers to cover the full cost of the stay, while others only accept partial payment. Depending on the campsite, vouchers may be accepted online, on arrival, or only when paying on site.

Is the Tourist Tax Included in the Camping Price?

The tourist tax is generally not included in the price displayed when booking a camping holiday.

This is a local tax charged by certain tourist destinations. It helps fund tourism development, the maintenance of public facilities, and improvements to visitor services.

The amount varies depending on several factors, including:

the municipality where the campsite is located;
the type of accommodation;
the campsite's official star rating;
the time of year.

The tourist tax is usually charged per adult, per night, and is generally paid directly to the campsite upon arrival or departure.

What Additional Costs Should You Expect?

Before travelling, check whether the following services are included in the price or charged as optional extras:

bed linen or towel hire;

end-of-stay cleaning;
hire of specific equipment;
optional activities or additional services;
pet fees, where applicable.

By reviewing the booking conditions in advance, you can avoid unexpected charges and enjoy a stress-free camping holiday.