Have you decided to take your family on a camping vacation? There's nothing like a mobile home to combine comfort and closeness to nature. But how do you choose the ideal place for young and old alike?
A natural setting conducive to relaxation, activities for all ages and comfortable accommodation are all assets that will make your stay unforgettable. In this article, find out how to choose the right family campsite for you and your children.
Essential criteria for choosing a family-friendly campsite
Campsite location
Going camping is great, but in a region you love, that's really the Grail. Every family holiday undoubtedly starts with a tourist destination. So where would you like to set down your bags this year? The sea, the mountains, the countryside?
Does your eldest prefer surfing in the Atlantic or sunbathing on the Mediterranean? A seaside campsite with direct access to the beach is just what you need. No need to lug all your equipment for miles on end, you'll be there in two minutes flat.
Do you prefer nature and hiking? Staying by a lake or in a nature park ticks all the boxes. In reality, target your desires and the experience you want to live to find the right geographical location for your campsite.
Our tip: don 't hesitate to check Google Maps for the exact location of the campsite and the distance to nearby tourist attractions.
The type of accommodation when choosing your campsite
Now, what type of accommodation would you like to stay in? A tent, a mobile home, an unusual cabin, a motorhome? A 4- or 5-star campsite?
In this case, take into account the age of your children and your budget. Teenagers love sleeping in a tent, while you’ll be more comfortable in a fully equipped mobile home with a 6-month-old baby.
More comfort, more space, and above all greater practicality for setting up everything you need (and you know how quickly children’s belongings can pile up). Also remember to carefully check the different details before clicking “book”: kitchen, space, privacy… What are your must-haves for a stress-free holiday?
Reviews from other holidaymakers
What do other travellers think? Before booking, take a few minutes to read feedback from families who have already stayed at the campsite that has caught your eye. Quality of the facilities, overall atmosphere, activities for children… You’ll discover the establishment’s strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
Our advice: also keep some perspective when reading other families’ reviews. Read several opinions and form an overall impression. If a particular point comes up frequently (and it matters to you), it’s probably a good indicator.
Swimming pools and aquatic areas
Ah, the swimming pool and water park... A must for a successful family vacation. We'd even go so far as to say that they're often THE decisive criterion.
Let's face it, giant slides, wave pools and whirlpools are the stuff of dreams. But beyond the fun, a well-designed aquatic area will keep the whole family occupied for hours.
First, check that the water park is suitable for all ages. Do they have a safe paddling pool for the little ones? Interactive water games for older children? A relaxation area with sauna and hammam?
Playgrounds and kids’ clubs
Do you also dream of taking a breather while the children have fun?
Then make sure the campsite has playgrounds, sports facilities and, above all, a kids’ club. Supervised by caring activity leaders, your children can enjoy a wide range of activities tailored to their age.
Check that the club offers activities for everyone and schedules that suit you, so that both younger children and teenagers can really enjoy themselves. Treasure hunts, craft workshops, sports tournaments… The idea is for them to have fun with their friends while discovering new passions.
Entertainment at the campsite
Before choosing your campsite, find out about the variety of entertainment on offer. A good programme should combine shows for children, musical evenings and, why not, some more relaxing events.
From morning to night, some establishments offer all kinds of activities:
- Magic or dance shows,
- Karaoke nights,
- Yoga, sophrology, dance or theatre classes,
- Live music concerts,
- Cinema evenings…
Our advice: be sure to check which activities are included in the price and which are available as optional extras.
Additional services
Campsites, especially starred ones, now offer a wide range of additional services to make your life easier. Outdoor hospitality provides a high level of comfort and amenities, delivering a truly five-star experience.
Before booking your holiday rental, take a close look at the extra services available:
- Laundry facilities,
- Bicycle, car or scooter rental,
- Restaurant, snack bar and bar,
- Convenience store,
- Breakfast delivery, fresh bread and pastries (croissants every morning are sacred),
- Bed linen rental,
- Shuttle service,
- Barbecue area,
- Surfboard or paddleboard rental.
Our tips for booking your mobile home holiday
Book in advance
Don't want to miss out on the campsite of your dreams?
We know from experience: if you want to choose the best pitch right next to the pool or in a quiet spot, it's best not to wait until the last minute.
What's more, you can take advantage of special rates or "early booking" offers . And when it comes to organization, everything just got a whole lot simpler. You can plan what to pack, what to do as a family, and even the famous list of things not to forget.
Comparing offers and prices
Wondering how to make the right choice without blowing your budget?
Indeed, not all campsites are created equal. Prices can vary significantly for sometimes very similar services. You’ll also notice that some campsites charge slightly higher rates.
However, these often include a water park, kids’ clubs or lively evening entertainment. On the other hand, be wary of prices that seem too low, as they can sometimes hide limited services or ageing facilities. When comparing options, the goal is to find the right balance between price and services, so everyone can enjoy themselves without breaking the bank.
You now have all the keys you need to choose the perfect campsite for an unforgettable holiday. Sunêlia Vacances is waiting for you in its 4- and 5-star campsites all over France. Book now!
