General safety

Hungary is generally a safe country to visit. Travellers can move around both in cities and in the countryside without constant worry. The atmosphere is relaxed, and people at campsites and in villages are often friendly and helpful.

As everywhere, it's wise to stay alert to your belongings. In busy places, such as markets, stations, or tourist areas, pickpockets can be active. The risks aren't great, but a bit of caution and not wearing your valuables visibly is sufficient.

The same applies to your car, motorhome, or tent: it's wise to lock them securely and not leave valuables in plain sight. On official car parks, campsites, and motorhome pitches, you're usually fine and it feels safe.

In the evening, you can walk along the street in most areas without any problem, especially in villages and smaller towns. In larger cities, as is the case everywhere, it's sensible to avoid remote or poorly lit areas.

What many travellers find pleasant is that Hungary is still relatively quiet compared to some other holiday destinations. This contributes to a feeling of safety and relaxation.

With normal caution, as you would use at home, you can travel around here and enjoy your holiday without any problems.

Language and communication

Once you're in the country, you'll immediately notice that the language is different from what you're used to. Hungarian doesn't resemble any languages we know and is therefore quite difficult. Fortunately, you can get by well with English in many places, especially at campsites and in tourist areas.

However, it's always appreciated if you try a few words of Hungarian. This often immediately creates a friendlier and more open contact.

Payments and costs

When it comes to paying, there are also a few things to bear in mind. Hungary does not use the euro, but the forint. It is possible to withdraw cash in many places, but it is useful to have some cash on you too, for example for smaller campsites or local shops.

Generally, the price level is lower than in many Western European countries, which makes the country attractive for a longer holiday.

Practical:

• Payment is made with the Hungarian forint
• You can pay by card in many places
• Cash is useful to have on hand
• The price level is lower than in the Netherlands

Climate and best time to visit

The climate also plays a role in your planning. Hungary has a continental climate. Summers can be warm, sometimes even quite hot. In spring and autumn, the weather is often pleasant, ideal for those who want to travel around or explore nature without extreme temperatures.

The Hungarian kitchen

During your holiday, you'll naturally become acquainted with Hungarian cuisine. It's hearty, flavourful, and often based on simple ingredients. Paprika plays a large role in many dishes, giving it that typical, warm flavour that Hungary is known for.

Toll roads and vignettes

One of the first things you have to deal with are the toll roads. In Hungary, this does not work with toll booths, but with a digital system. You need a so-called e-vignette, which is linked to your license plate. You can easily buy this online or at a petrol station just across the border. Online it can be done on many different websites, and there is also a lot of price difference. The ‘official’ website is: Purchase e-vignette. Since the monitoring is via cameras, it is important that you arrange this on time.

In short:

• You need a digital vignette (e-matrica)
• No sticker on the window, everything goes through digital license plate registration
• Buy in advance online or directly at a petrol station after crossing the border
• Pay attention to the correct vehicle category for motorhomes

Practical tips for on the go

Finally, there are a few practical matters that make travelling a little easier. The basic amenities are similar to other European countries, but it is good to know a few things in advance.

Good to know:

• The roads are generally good, especially the main ones.
• Petrol stations are well distributed (more and more points for electric charging are appearing, but check this carefully beforehand)
• Wild camping is not permitted

Extra practical information

Anyone who looks beyond the destination itself will avoid surprises along the way. Especially when travelling by motorhome/caravan, it's nice to have a few extra things sorted out.

Breakdown assistance and insurance

Check in advance whether your breakdown cover is also valid in Hungary and what exactly is covered. Consider replacement transport or assistance with returning home. It is advisable to have important phone numbers both in your phone and on paper with you.

Emergency numbers

In emergencies, you can always call 112. This number works throughout Europe and you can usually speak English. In addition, there are national numbers for ambulance (104), fire brigade (105) and police (107), but with 112 you are always covered.

Mandatory items in the car

In Hungary, you are obliged to carry a breakdown triangle and high-visibility vests. These vests must be accessible to all occupants when you are stopped by the roadside. A first-aid kit is highly recommended.

Traffic rules

The basic rules are similar to those in the Netherlands, but there are a few important differences. Outside built-up areas, lights are mandatory during the day, and the alcohol limit is zero. Speed checks occur regularly, so it's wise to stick to the limits.

Official speed limits

For passenger cars and most motorhomes up to 3,500 kg, the following apply:

• Within built-up areas: 50 km/h
• Outside built-up areas: 90 km/h
• Motorways: 110 km/h
• Motorways: 130 km/h

With heavier campers, lower limits may apply, so that's good to check.

Healthcare

Always take your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) with you. This will allow you to receive medical care under local conditions. Additional travel insurance is advisable, especially if you are travelling for a longer period.

Caution, game crossing

In rural areas and on smaller roads, you may encounter animals crossing the road. Think hares, roe deer and sometimes deer. This is especially likely at dusk and during the night.

In the summer months, roughly from July to August, animals are more active due to the mating season. This increases the chance of them unexpectedly crossing the road.

Please take this into consideration:

• Adjust your speed on quiet and wooded roads
• Be extra alert at sunrise and sunset
• Watch out for wildlife warning signs
• If you see one animal, more often follow

Finally

Those who have been to Hungary once often find that it is a destination that sticks around. Not because everything is perfectly organised as you might be used to, but because of the combination of space, simplicity and hospitality. It is a country where it is easy to get into a different rhythm, where you take your time and where camping still feels really relaxed.

With a little preparation, you'll hit the road without any worries and, above all, enjoy everything you encounter along the way. And chances are that, like many others, after your first visit you are already thinking about a next time.

Do you have any questions or have you got all excited about a holiday in Hungary? Then contact us via our website (Click for contact), or look further on our website (Click for website) for all activities, nature etc. near our campsite!