Hammock Trips Across Europe: How to Travel for Next to Nowt

Europe’s a funny old place. One minute you’re wandering through a cobbled village in Slovenia, next minute you’re swinging between two pine trees in the Alps wondering why you ever paid for accommodation in your life. If you’ve ever fancied travelling Europe for free (or as close as humanly possible), hammock camping is hands-down the best way to do it.

And if we can manage it — three lads from Yorkshire armed with hammocks, oat bars, and questionable navigation skills — anyone can.

Why Hammocks Make Europe Practically Free

Let’s get the obvious bit out of the way:
Hotels? Expensive.
Hostels? Loud.
Campsites? Always full of that bloke who starts playing guitar at 11pm.

But two trees… they’re everywhere. From France to Croatia, Europe is basically one big hammock playground. With a bit of common sense and some proper kit, you can kip comfortably almost anywhere without spending a penny.

Our favourite part? Once you’re off the ground, suddenly every forest, lakeside, and hidden mountain spot becomes your bedroom. No rocks in your back, no slugs investigating your tent, and definitely no campsite fees.

Where We Hammocked Across Europe

1. Germany – Black Forest Heaven

The place is literally a forest. You could close your eyes, throw your hammock straps, and still hit two perfect trees. We spent nights overlooking valleys, sipping cheap beer, and watching mist roll through like something from a fantasy film.

2. Slovenia – The Underrated Gem

Lake Bled is where we realised we’d cracked the code. Sunrise dipping, hammocks under the pines, and mountain views that look like you typed “peaceful wallpaper” into Google. And it’s still cheap… for now.

3. Croatia – Hammocks By the Coast

Wild camping rules are a bit stricter here, so pick your spots wisely. But if you find a quiet cove, string up between two olives, and let the Adriatic breeze do the rest — unreal.

4. Austria – Alpine Wild Camping Done Right

Forget the pricey ski towns. The forests lower down are dreamy. Picture waking up in a hammock with the mountains glowing pink at sunrise. Makes a bowl of budget porridge taste like a Michelin breakfast.

How We Travelled Europe On Pennies

People always ask how we managed to go for weeks without draining our bank accounts. Truth is, the hammock changed everything.

No accommodation. No booking apps. No stress.
We bus-hopped, hitched, walked, and used €2 trains when we could. The whole trip cost less than a weekend in London.

If you’re hunting for free travel hacks, here’s what actually works:

• Travel off-season — prices drop, crowds vanish, nature stays the same

• Sleep wild — responsibly, quietly, and leave no trace

• Cook on a tiny stove instead of buying meals out

• Use hammocks instead of tents — lighter, quicker, more stealthy

• Stay flexible — spontaneity is cheaper than planning sometimes

Combine all that and suddenly Europe becomes ridiculously affordable.

The Magic of Hammock Camping in Europe

The biggest win wasn’t saving money. It was the freedom.
No check-in times.
No worrying about weather or rocky ground.
No waking up in a sweaty tent.

Just you, your mates, a pair of trees, and views that make you forget you only paid €1.80 for dinner.

We’d wander into a forest at sunset, find the perfect pair, get the hammock up in two minutes, and suddenly we were the kings of our own little patch of Europe.

Is Hammock Camping Legal in Europe?

We get asked this loads. Here’s the truth, quick and simple:

• Germany, France, Austria, Slovenia: generally fine if you’re discreet and respectful

• Croatia, Italy: stricter — stick to forest zones and be sensible

• Switzerland: varies by canton (classic Switzerland)

As long as you’re quiet, clean, and not camping for days in the same spot, you’re usually alright.

Gear We Used

We carried:

• A TwoTrees Ultimate Hammock

• A TwoTrees Tarp

• A small stove

• Power bank

• Many, many beers

Your back will thank you for the hammock. Your bank account will too.

Final Thoughts: Europe Is Best Seen Between Two Trees

If you want to travel Europe for free, escape the busy campsites, and actually feel connected to the places you visit, a hammock is the way. It turns travel into an adventure, not a transaction.

Europe is massive, magical, and full of perfect hammock spots you’ve not even imagined yet. Pack light, grab your mates, and let two trees be your ticket to the whole continent.

There’s nothing quite like waking up in a pine forest, hearing birds instead of traffic, and realising you’ve spent absolutely nothing to sleep there.

Next stop?
Maybe the Balkans. Maybe the Alps. Maybe wherever the next pair of trees appear.