We did it! Finally found and purchased our baby, a slightly used Autostar with a shower and room to sleep three (Mr. Hall, myself, and our laptop). We have three months to goof off, and hope to continue on little weekend trips around France once the summer is over. For us, renting just wasn't economical. At an average of 5000ff per week alone for the rental, excluding gas and expenses, we figured it would make more sense to buy one, and then resell it when we no longer wanted it. The goo thing about CamperVans in France, is that they don't depreciate as much as cars, as long as you don't kill the engine and keep the interior in good condition, you should have no trouble selling it for a decent price.
Finding the Right One
First of all, if you're buying or renting, you'll want to read up. It's just like buying a car, except that there are more considerations. How many people can it hold? What size engine, and what type of engine, do you prefer? Is storage a big issue? Bike racks, car tow hitches, satellite dishes, ovens, separate shower? Do you really want one of the Capucine's (a bed over the driving area-wind resistance), or a Profilé (more sleek)? There are also the Intergral's, which are one big ol' vehicle as opposed to the camper attached to a truck frame (the two former models). In any case, be sure to look over the insurance carefully, especially if you are towing or have anything attached on a rack on the roof or back. Here are a few sites, mostly in French, with info on buying and renting.
Choosing a Campingcar is a French site on how to choose a Campingcar. Gives details on all of the major models found in France.
Used Campincar Ads is helpful and easy to use, all in French.
French Campingcar Classifieds is another French site to read or place ads for selling or buying a Campingcar.
Eliza Travel is in English, for Campingcar rental anywhere in the world.
What To Do Next?
Planning a trip can be the best-or the most difficult-part of the trip. Keep in mind that most Europeans vacation in July and August, so make reservations in advance if you can. Especially if you know exactly where you want to go. Count on at least 100ff per night for an average campsite, more if it's nicer. Many charge extra for more than two passengers, pets, an electrical hookup, extra vehicles, etc. A lot of campsites even rent out the campers or bungalows, so you could, if you planned it well, simply drive in the car from place to place and stay in your own little CamperVan for a week or two. There are many camping sites in France, and you can also arrange to camp on farms, through the Camping Club de France. You should register with them to get discounts and receive the International Camping Card, required in many campsites in Europe. Here are a few other links for checking out the options, both in France and the rest of Europe.
