Camping with a tent can be not only a way to immerse yourself in nature, but also a great way to travel with minimal expense. In many countries around the world – especially in the US, Canada, Australia and Scandinavia – there are many free camping sites that are available to everyone. The main thing is to know where and how to look for them, as well as to follow the rules of behavior in nature.

The first thing to understand is that free camping is most often located on land belonging to the state. In the United States, for example, these are areas managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), U.S. Forest Service and National Wildlife Refuges. Tenting is allowed on these sites unless otherwise established. These are usually sites outside of organized campgrounds, with no facilities – which means you need to be self-contained: have your own water, know how to dispose of waste, and abide by the Leave No Trace principle.

Specialty sites and apps are valuable tools in finding free campgrounds. Here are a few of the most reliable ones:

• FreeCampsites.net – one of the most popular resources where users share locations of free campsites with reviews and coordinates.
• iOverlander – an international app that shows camping spots, including free ones, as well as water sources and stores.
• Campendium – a cost-filtered platform where it’s easy to find free parking lots on national lands.
• Google Maps and satellite imagery – with enough experience you can recognize potentially suitable glades or access points near forests and rivers.

National forests and national parks (outside of official campgrounds) are also worth checking out, especially if it is indicated that “dispersed camping” is allowed. Usually in these cases you can camp at least 100-200 meters from a road, stream or lake and no longer than 14 days.

Alternatively, you can simply ask the locals. Employees of tourist centers, rangers, gas station attendants or salespeople in outdoor stores are often happy to tell you where it is safe and legal to stay with a tent for free.

It is important to consider the legal aspects as well. Never pitch a tent on private property without the owner’s permission. In some countries, such as Norway, Sweden and Finland, there is a right of free movement (Allemansrätten) that allows you to camp temporarily in nature, even on private land, but with certain restrictions. In other countries, such as Germany or the UK, wild camping outside designated areas may be prohibited.

Besides legal issues, think about safety. Free sites rarely have lighting, security or other campers nearby, so choose open and visible spaces, inform loved ones of the location and avoid potentially unsafe areas.

Finally, remember: free camping is a privilege for which everyone is personally responsible. Keep clean, stay quiet at night, don’t make noise, don’t build campfires in prohibited areas, and respect nature. This is the only way to preserve access to these amazing corners of nature for yourself and for future travelers.