If you’ve ever dreamed of circling Mont Blanc under your own steam, camping along the way is one of the most rewarding ways to do it. While many hikers opt for mountain huts, pitching a tent gives you more flexibility, lower costs, and the chance to fall asleep beneath a canopy of stars.
The Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) covers roughly 170 kilometers, crossing France, Italy, and Switzerland. Over 10–11 days you’ll climb over dramatic passes, wander through alpine villages, and wake up to views of glaciers and jagged peaks. Camping brings both freedom and responsibility—understanding the rules, the gear you’ll need, and where to set up for the night will make your journey smoother.
Why Camp Instead of Staying in Refuges?
Refuges on the TMB are popular and often book up months in advance. Carrying a tent means you’re not tied to rigid reservations and can adjust your pace if weather, injuries, or simple fatigue slow you down. It also keeps costs down—campsites are far cheaper than hut stays, and wild camping (where legal) is usually free. That said, camping requires more gear and preparation, so your pack will be heavier and your comfort more basic.
The Rules of Camping on the TMB
Because the trail crosses three countries, regulations vary:
- France: Bivouacking (setting up after sunset and leaving at sunrise) is generally allowed above the tree line, though local restrictions may apply.
- Italy: Wild camping is permitted above 2,500 meters, also only from dusk until dawn.
- Switzerland: Wild camping is largely prohibited, but official campsites are plentiful.
Respecting these rules helps protect fragile alpine environments and ensures future hikers can enjoy the same freedom. Always follow leave-no-trace principles and ask permission when staying on private land.
Notable Campsites Along the Route
The TMB has a mix of established campgrounds in valleys and bivouac spots near refuges. Some of the more popular camping areas include:
- Les Houches & Chamonix – A convenient starting point with several campgrounds close to shops and transport.
- Les Contamines – Camping Le Pontet is a reliable choice with showers and a café.
- Les Chapieux – Free tent spots near the tourist office or by Refuge de la Croix du Bonhomme.
- Val Veny (Italy) – Options like Camping Aiguille Noire and Camping La Sorgente provide full facilities within reach of the trail.
- Val Ferret (Italy) – Camping Grandes Jorasses is a practical base if you’re hiking this stretch.
- La Fouly (Switzerland) – Camping des Glaciers is lively but has stunning views and good amenities.
- Champex-Lac – Campsites here offer lake views and easy access to the Fenêtre d’Arpette variant.
- Trient & Le Peuty – Simple, rustic fields for tents, with basic facilities at low cost.
- Near Refuge La Flégère – Bivouacking is possible, or you can drop down to valley campgrounds via gondola.
Gear You’ll Need for Camping the TMB
Packing smart makes all the difference. A lightweight tent with a solid rainfly is essential, as storms roll in quickly in the Alps. Choose a sleeping bag rated to at least 0–5°C, paired with an insulated pad for comfort and warmth. Keep your backpack under 25 pounds if possible—lighter if you have old injuries or joint issues.
Other useful items include:
- Trekking poles to protect your knees on steep descents
- A compact water filter since some sources aren’t safe to drink untreated
- A power bank for charging phones or GPS units
- Merino wool socks and layered clothing for comfort in shifting mountain weather
Food and Water on the Trail
You don’t need to carry all your meals for the entire trek—villages and refuges are never too far away. Stock up on bread, cheese, pasta, or fresh produce from local shops, or enjoy the set meals many refuges and auberges offer. Keep in mind that dinners often require reservations, and not all refuges serve campers. Carry a lightweight stove if you’d rather self-cater.
For water, fountains and refuge taps are common, but not every source is potable. A small filter or purification tablets will give you peace of mind.
Budgeting for a Camping Trek
Camping dramatically reduces costs compared to staying in huts. Campsites generally run between €5 and €25 per night depending on facilities and location. Food is your next biggest expense—restaurants add up quickly, but buying groceries and cooking your own meals saves money. Don’t forget you’ll need some cash on hand, especially in Switzerland, where campsites often prefer francs over euros.
Challenges to Be Aware Of
While camping the TMB is freeing, it does have drawbacks. Some stretches—particularly in Switzerland and around Courmayeur—offer limited legal camping options, requiring either detours or bus transfers. Weather in the Alps changes fast, so a flexible schedule is key. And carrying a full camping kit makes the trek more physically demanding than a hut-to-hut version.
Final Thoughts
Camping the Tour du Mont Blanc isn’t the easiest way to experience this world-famous trek, but it’s one of the most memorable. The trade-offs—heavier packs, more planning, fewer comforts—are balanced by freedom, savings, and the unique joy of waking up in the wild heart of the Alps. With careful preparation and respect for local rules, a tent can be your ticket to the most immersive version of this legendary adventure.
