Whether this is your first camper adventure or you’re already an experienced traveler, it’s important to remember that the road is full of surprises and unexpected events are almost guaranteed at some point during the journey. That’s why we’ve put together some tips and recommendations to make your trip as comfortable as possible.
Want to start planning your next adventure but don’t know where to begin? Here we offer some pre-planned itineraries to help you know where to start. Personal documents: Make sure your passport and national (or international) driver’s license are valid. The speed limit in cities is usually 40 km/h. On highways, it’s generally 120 km/h; however, when driving a camper, you should not exceed 90 km/h. Drive carefully and adjust your speed according to road and weather conditions. Also, be aware that wind significantly increases fuel consumption—especially in Patagonia, where strong winds are very common. Argentina has four seasons, and you need to be prepared for a wide range of temperatures. In desert areas, it can be hot during the day but very cold at night. While Patagonia can be warm in the summer, autumn and winter bring rain and snowfall. During winter, it’s important to be aware that road closures may occur due to heavy snow. By law, you are required to drive with your headlights on at all times—even during the day. It is mandatory to pay tolls along the route, and payment is only accepted in cash. Check and calculate your route distances before setting off to ensure you’ll have enough fuel and supplies, as some roads may not have gas stations or supermarkets along the way. Many gas stations also offer restrooms where you can take a shower and refill your water tank, as well as convenience stores to stock up on supplies. We recommend drinking only bottled water. However, tap water in Argentina is safe to use for filling your camper/RV’s water tank and is suitable for cleaning and personal hygiene. Always be cautious and park in safe areas—such as campgrounds—and avoid leaving the vehicle unattended on city streets, especially in large urban areas. Keep your trash with you until you reach an appropriate place to dispose of it. During the winter months—low season—most campsites are closed. However, parking and camping in open areas is allowed. Camping areas in national parks and wilderness zones are recommended. Keep in mind they have specific opening periods and hours. It’s advisable to arrive at your camping spot before nightfall to settle in for the night. Do not cross fresh foods (fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, among others) at border crossings. It is not allowed to take fresh products in or out of Argentina. You may only bring or take vacuum-packed foods. Check the operating hours of border crossings, as they do not operate 24 hours a day. Always make sure to register the entry of your camper or RV when returning to Argentina. Information on Argentina’s border crossings: www.argentina.gob.ar/seguridad/pasosinternacionales App iOverlander: Useful route information including natural camping sites, fuel stations, parking spots, restaurants, and more. App Maps.me: You can download offline maps on your tablet or smartphone.
TIPS TO KEEP IN MIND
POINTS TO CONSIDER
Vehicle documents: All vehicle documents, as well as the required insurance policy for crossing borders, should be kept in the vehicle. When showing the requested documents to the police or at border checkpoints, you must have all documents in order to avoid problems later during inspections.
On unpaved dirt roads, it is recommended not to exceed 50 km/h, depending on the road conditions. If the road has significant washboard (corrugated) effects that cause the vehicle to vibrate, we recommend driving at 20 km/h.
Automatic payment is available through the Telepase system at designated toll booths (this cost is included in the rental).
This will also help you estimate the total kilometers for your trip and organize everything in advance.
We recommend using well-known brands such as YPF, Shell, or Axion. Even if your tank is only half empty, make sure to fill it up completely when you see one of these trusted stations—since you might not find another recommended gas station for many kilometers.
If you plan to leave the camper to explore other places, make sure to park it in a secure, monitored location.
Never leave valuables visible inside the camper or vehicle.
Never leave garbage outside the camper—this can attract animals.
App SkyView: Perfect for viewing and learning the names of constellations and thousands of stars while camping.