Vanlife, husbilar och allemansrätten - frihet under ansvar

Traveling by motorhome or camper van has become increasingly
popular in Sweden. The freedom to discover new places, wake up close to nature, and
enjoy the country’s varied landscapes appeals to many. At the same time, questions often arise
about the rules for staying overnight in nature. How does life in a motorhome
relate to the right of public access?

The right of public access is a unique opportunity that gives everyone the right to
be in nature, regardless of who owns the land. It is based on the fundamental principle
of “do no harm, do no disturbance” and makes it possible to move freely
on foot, bike on roads and trails, and temporarily camp in a tent in
many places.

For RVs, however, different rules apply in some cases. The Right of Public Access
does not grant the right to drive motor vehicles off-road or to park just anywhere
in nature. Motorhomes must be parked on roads, in parking lots, or other areas
where motor vehicles are permitted to drive and park. If parking is permitted, you may
often also spend the night in the vehicle, as long as you do not disturb landowners,
residents, or natural values.

The difference between parking and camping is important. If
you set up an awning, table, chairs, or other equipment outside the vehicle
your stay changes from parking to camping. In such cases, you often need the landowner’s
permission or must use a campground or a specially designated
parking spot.

Many municipalities now offer parking spots for RVs near
nature and outdoor recreation areas. These provide an opportunity to experience nature while
reducing wear and tear, littering, and conflicts with landowners. By choosing
appropriate sites and showing consideration, RV travelers help preserve the
opportunities afforded by the right of public access.

The right of public access is a freedom that requires responsibility. For
RV travelers, this means respecting parking rules, avoiding
sensitive natural areas, disposing of waste properly, and showing consideration for people,
animals, and landowners. In this way, more people can enjoy both the freedom of motorhome travel and
Swedish nature, today and in the future.

Parking Spaces (2026)

Kalmar Guest Harbor

• Skeppsbrokajen:

• Ölandskajen:

Electricity, Wi-Fi, drinking water, and access to a service building
are included.

Svinö

• Approximately

Adjacent to the Öland Bridge and the Svinö outdoor recreation area. Restrooms,
water refills, and disposal of sewage and gray water. Maximum parking time
18 hours.

Skärgårdsparken

• RV parking

Free parking with plenty of space. Access to restrooms and
showers during the day and evening, but no electricity.

Campgrounds

First Camp Stensö

Camping, cabins, and RV parking. Amenities include showers, restrooms,
a kitchen, Wi-Fi, and a waste disposal station. Scenic location near downtown, swimming spots, and
the Stensö Nature Reserve.

Kalmar Camping Rafshagsudden

• Campground

Restrooms, showers, kitchen, Wi-Fi, and waste disposal for gray water and
sewage. By the sea, 10 km north of downtown Kalmar.

Vita Sands Camping

• Campground

Access to showers, restrooms, water, Wi-Fi, and disposal facilities for
motorhomes. Adjacent to one of Kalmar’s most popular beaches, 15 km south of the city.