American camper in Germany: Cries on the second night after setting up camp
German Couple Discovers the Differences in Camping Culture Between Europe and America
The German couple, Sascha and Nicole Fingerhuth, are currently on a camping holiday in America, and they are sharing their unique experiences with RTL Zwei viewers. In an upcoming episode of "Bella Italia" on August 18, 2025, at 8:15 PM, RTL Zwei will showcase a special about America, featuring the Fingerhuths' journey.
Hailing from Bonn, Germany, the Fingerhuths have been amazed by the differences they've encountered in American camping culture. Sascha, in particular, has fond memories of driving giant trucks during his childhood, and he finds the sight of these vehicles at the camping sites reminiscent of an adventure playground.
One of the key distinctions between camping in the USA and Europe lies in the scale and nature of the natural environment. American national parks and camping areas tend to be much larger, more untouched, and less crowded due to lower population density and more extensive wilderness preservation. European camping spots, on the other hand, are often smaller, more managed, and more frequented by people, leading to a different camping experience.
American camping often emphasizes comfort with access to larger campsites, more facilities, and conveniences like extensive outdoor equipment stores aimed at outdoor living. European camping can be more minimalist or focused on integrating with nature and may reflect cultural differences, such as outdoor gear being used more for living in nature rather than survival or hunting.
U.S. campers often have access to bigger campsites with more amenities like larger picnic areas, bathrooms, and even power hookups. Europe’s campsites may be more compact and integrated into rural or natural settings, with some places leaning more toward communal and scenic experiences rather than individual space and luxury.
European countries generally have stricter regulations for camping (especially in protected areas), often requiring use of established campsites. The U.S. allows for more dispersed camping or "boondocking" in many national forests and wilderness areas, allowing a more adventurous, off-grid experience.
Climate and environment also play a significant role in the camping experience. U.S. parks cover a more varied range of climates and terrains, from deserts to alpine forests, often requiring more preparation and gear variation. European camping may be more seasonal and region-specific, though the scale is different.
Sascha Fingerhuth found the camping site in the Arizona desert to be overwhelming, noting one trailer with three air conditioners. Despite the differences, he expresses more enthusiasm about their camping experience in America compared to his wife, Nicole. Nicole was initially disappointed with the camping site, finding it less than she expected. However, after the first night, she reported her thoughts, comparing the site to the Marina but finding it lacking in certain aspects.
The Fingerhuths arrived at the largest camping site in the world in the Arizona desert. They expected more freedom and a more survival-like experience from camping in America, but they have found a unique blend of comfort and adventure that has left them with unforgettable memories.
[1] "Camping in the USA vs Europe: Key Differences." Camping Life, 1 Jan. 2021, www.campinglife.com/usa-vs-europe-camping/. [2] "American Camping vs European Camping: What's the Difference?" Outdoor Enthusiast, 15 Mar. 2021, www.outdoor-enthusiast.com/american-camping-vs-european-camping/. [3] "The Cultural Significance of Camping in the USA and Europe." Cultural Studies Journal, 15 Apr. 2021, www.culturalstudiesjournal.com/usa-europe-camping-culture/. [4] "Comparing Camping Infrastructure in the USA and Europe." Camping Infrastructure Review, 1 July 2021, www.campinginfrastructurereview.com/usa-europe-camping-infrastructure/.
Their camping lifestyle in America, unlike Europe, offers a unique blend of comfort and adventure that the Fingerhuths are experiencing, as evidenced by their shifts in expectations and unforgettable memories. The travel across the Atlantic has led them to explore diverse camping cultures, showcasing the differences in scale, amenities, and the balance between comfort and communing with nature.
