Camper, roof top tent or caravans
If you're planning a road trip in Sweden, it’s important to understand the country’s strict regulations on off-road driving and parking.
Driving off-road is illegal in Sweden and is not covered by the right of public access. This includes forests, beaches, meadows, and other natural areas. Even landowners cannot grant permission for off-road driving or parking on their own land.
Keep in mind
- Do not drive motor vehicles off-road.
- Do not park motorhomes, caravans, or cars with roof tents in nature.
- Rest stops are often suitable places to park. You are generally allowed to stay for up to 24 hours on weekdays, and longer on weekends, check the signs.
- Always ask the landowner for permission if you want to park near someone’s home.
- Avoid blocking access or creating a hazard for landowners or other road users when stopping along a private road.
Parking next to a road
There are no general time limits for parking along roads that are not considered off-road areas. For tents, the general rule is one night. However, motorhomes, caravans, and roof tents can be seen as more intrusive than regular tents.
Always ask the landowner for permission if you want to stay near a residential building, even just for one night.
Access to private roads
On private roads, you are welcome to walk, cycle, or ride horses. Property owners have the right to limit motor vehicle access. While motor vehicle traffic can cause damage, walking, cycling, and horse riding are allowed unless they harm the road. Motor vehicles include cars, motorcycles, mopeds, tractors, snowmobiles, and similar vehicles.
Motor vehicle restrictions
If a road owner chooses to restrict motor vehicle access, this must be clearly indicated with a sign or barrier—even a homemade sign must be respected. These restrictions are often in place to prevent road damage and avoid costly repairs. Walking, cycling, and horse riding are still allowed, though local traffic regulations may occasionally limit non-motorised traffic as well, which is rare.
For more information about where to drive and park check: