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Avoiding motorhome traffic in summer: apps, itineraries and good habits
How it works
31/7/2025

Avoiding motorhome traffic in summer: apps, itineraries and good habits

Stress-free motorhome travel during the busy holiday season: set course for quiet roads

Dear motorhome friends, you know better than anyone: nothing beats the freedom of the open road, the beauty of an improvised itinerary, the pleasure of driving without hurrying. But at the height of summer, reality catches up with us: the notorious July-August traffic jams the main roads, clogs up the beaches and can turn your trip into an obstacle course. For travelers who are looking for serenity and discovery, summer traffic is an unnecessary stress. Fortunately, a few simple tips can turn your journey into a healthy one!

With a motorhome, you have a precious advantage: flexibility. So why not make the most of it? By preparing your route a little, avoiding peak periods, using the right apps and daring to get off the beaten track, you can bypass congested areas and make the most of every mile. The CAMPING-CAR PARK network accompanies you throughout France and Europe, with its secure areas accessible 24 hours a day thanks to the Digital Passso you can park wherever you like, away from the hustle and bustle.

What if all the roads are blocked? Don't panic. If you're not in a hurry, sometimes the wisest thing to do is to take a break. Thanks to the "Nearby" function on the Camping-Car Park app, you can find an area where you can stop for a day in the blink of an eye. It's a great way to wait out the traffic while enjoying a safe, relaxing stopover.

The best apps for avoiding summer RV traffic

Today, your best co-pilot is your smartphone! There are a number of free and paid apps that can help you avoid heavy traffic, especially on busy weekends. Here are our special recommendations for senior citizens on the move:

  • Waze Waze: very popular, this real-time community app alerts you to traffic jams, accidents, speed cameras and suggests instant detours. Ideal for reacting along the way.
  • Google Maps Google Maps: effective for viewing traffic, anticipating slowdowns and planning an alternative route based on departure time.
  • Sygic GPS Truck & Caravan Sygic GPS Truck & Caravan: designed for large vehicles, it takes account of gauges, weight and height restrictions, perfect for motorhomes.
  • ViaMichelin ViaMichelin: excellent for planning a tourist itinerary, avoiding freeways and preferring secondary roads.

Tip: use several applications to cross-reference information. And above all, don't leave home without checking the road situation in real time, especially on days classified as red or black by Bison Futé!

Favoring back roads in summer: the charm of the hinterland away from traffic jams

Leaving the main roads in summer often means discovering the true soul of a region. With a motorhome, taking the back roads means a slower, richer, more authentic journey. Less traffic, more picturesque villagesless traffic, more picturesque villages, more varied landscapes and more opportunities for impromptu breaks.

Some regions are particularly well-suited to this: the Dordogne, the Lot, inland Brittany or the Morvan, with their winding but little-traveled roads. Thanks to the Pack'Privilège from CAMPING-CAR PARK, you'll be able to easily locate areas that can be reserved in advance, even in the most remote areas. No more stress on arrival, even during the red season!

By avoiding crowded freeways, you'll also save money (less tolls, less fuel), and enjoy smoother driving, with no trucks or long queues. Remember to arm yourself with a good paper road map to complement your GPS: a reassuring classic that can save the day when you're off the grid.

The right reflexes to adopt for safe driving during the busy season

In addition to digital tools, your experience and a few good reflexes will make all the difference. Here are a few practical tips:

  • Early or staggered departure: leave early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid traffic peaks.
  • Avoid cross-country weekends: especially in July and August, consult the Bison Futé calendar to choose the right days.
  • Make regular stops a priority: Try to schedule quiet breaks every two hours.
  • Put your trust in the community: reviews of service areas, feedback from other motorhome owners on forums or Facebook groups groups are often invaluable.

In short, a successful trip, even in the middle of summer, is a combination of preparation, flexibility and curiosity. Let yourself be guided by your desires, while remaining in control of your itinerary.

Take to the road with confidence with CAMPING-CAR PARK

By avoiding traffic, you save more than just time: you rediscover the pleasure of driving, the freedom to stop wherever you like, and the joy of discovering little-known corners. With CAMPING-CAR PARK, you can organize your stopovers in complete safety, and take advantage of a unique network of sites in every region of France.

Whether you're tempted by Brittany or Normandy Normandywe can help you prepare your stay. And don't forget to consult the information sheets for our areas.

So, are you ready to ride with a clear head, even during the busy season? Activate your Pack'Privilègeprepare your itinerary, and let yourself be carried away. Enjoy your trip!

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Jean-Alexis Lemieux
Media Manager

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