September camping journal: Camping at Lake Balaton in Autumn

Autumn camping is an experience, but what don’t you see in the postcards?

Camping in a tent or caravan in September is full of surprises. During the day, it can feel as though summer is not over yet: the sun is shining, you retreat to the shade of the campsite’s trees around midday, spend the afternoon at the beach, hop on a SUP, and then head out for an ice cream.

According to the calendar, however, it is already autumn. The lakeshore is quieter, the children are back in kindergarten and school, and peace and tranquillity take centre stage by the water. It feels as though Lake Balaton is yours alone. If you enjoy the rhythm of camping life, this is the perfect time to make the most of it. Hiking, cycling and the warmth of an evening campfire invite you to take some time for yourself and experience the atmosphere of the autumn camping season.

Why do so many people choose the camping lifestyle in autumn too?

• A quieter lakeshore, with no crowds.
• More affordable prices.
• Pleasant weather, with no scorching heat, making it ideal for outdoor activities and excursions.
• A smoother transition into autumn: spending time in nature helps you embrace the new season.
• Fewer mosquitoes and other insects.
• Unique photo opportunities: the sun is lower in the sky, creating richer sunset colours.
• Better sleep: a tent or caravan can easily heat up in summer, while in autumn the later sunrise lets you sleep longer.

But there are a few little moments that the perfect camping photos usually don’t show. The dewy grass in the morning, condensation forming on the walls of the tent, shorter days, towels that no longer dry as quickly as you would like, the occasional shower, or those chillier nights when you wrap yourself up in your sleeping bag so tightly that only the tip of your nose is visible.

For a true camping enthusiast, however, none of this is a problem, because there are a few insider tricks that can help you enjoy the camping experience without letting the change of season get in the way. Read on as we take you through the joys and challenges of autumn tent camping, along with the most useful camping tips and tricks.

Open until 4 October!

Prices are much more affordable during the autumn season. Book your pitch on our website and discover the more peaceful side of Lake Balaton and Siófok!

You’ll find the best offers on our website – book now!

Camping on the cusp of the changing seasons: fluctuating temperatures

At the beginning of September, it is easy to make the mistake of packing as if it were July, as daytime temperatures can still feel like summer. Sun protection is important, as UV levels can still be high, and the bright sunshine may tempt you to take a refreshing dip. However, a light jumper can already come in handy in the shade, and once the sun goes down, you can really feel the difference. In September, nighttime temperatures can surprise you with anything between an average of 10 and 18 °C, so it is worth preparing for cooler nights too.

There is no need to bring too many thick layers, though, as don’t forget, September is practically still summer! However, a few essentials are indispensable to ensure a comfortable night in your caravan or tent.

What clothes and gear should you pack for camping in September?

• A warm top and long trousers to slip into and cosy up in during the evenings.
• A sleeping bag. If you feel the cold easily, choose a three-season one that can keep you warm even in temperatures between 0 and 5 °C. You may even find yourself feeling too warm in it.
• A fleece blanket, which is also handy for stargazing in the evening.
• Thick socks for the night.
• For tent camping, use a layered sleeping setup: place a foam sleeping mat underneath, followed by a self-inflating mattress at least 5–8 cm thick.

Morning condensation: when everything is a little wetter than you’d like

One of the most common morning inconveniences when camping in September is condensation. It can be even more noticeable if a few drops of rain fell at the campsite the night before. When you wake up, the outside of the tent may be covered in dew, condensation can form on the inside of the tent walls, and sometimes even your sleeping bag may not feel completely dry in the morning.

It is important to note, however, that moisture does not usually mean the tent is leaking. The most common cause of water inside a tent is condensation, which is a natural phenomenon: moisture in the air turns into droplets when it comes into contact with the cold tent wall.

If you leave your camping chairs outside overnight, they may be damp by morning, so it is best to bring them inside for the night.

In autumn, your morning camping routine should include thorough airing and spreading out any damp items to dry. The sun’s rays will soon take care of the problem. It is also a good idea to bring a highly absorbent cloth with you, so you can quickly wipe down your camping chair and settle in to slowly sip your morning coffee.

What should you do in the morning if your tent and gear are damp or wet?

• Check whether the moisture is actually condensation or whether there is a leak.
• Air out your tent thoroughly every morning.
• Open up your sleeping bag and spread it out to dry.
• Wipe down any damp surfaces and put wet items out in the sun to dry.
• Never pack away your gear while it is still damp inside the tent.
• Make sure your tent is properly pitched and that there is adequate ventilation at all times.
  

Extra tip:

At Aranypart Camping & Apartments, you’ll find a modern, token-operated laundry with both washing machines and dryers. Don’t struggle with clothes and towels that take forever to dry in damp weather, simply pop your wet items in the dryer and enjoy a more comfortable camping experience!

When camping in autumn, the services that add to your everyday comfort can make all the difference. Whether you need a laundry, clean and well-maintained sanitary facilities, or a dedicated baby bathing room, you’ll find everything you need for a comfortable stay. Private bathrooms are also available in Sanitary Block 2 and 4 at the campsite and holiday resort.

Oops, it’s already dark!

In summer, it’s easy to lose track of time chatting after dinner, as there’s no rush when the evenings stay light for so long. In September, however, dinner, washing up, packing away your things and those little chores around the tent can easily turn into a “night-time activity”. There’s no need to disrupt the natural rhythm of your evenings just because the sun sets earlier. A reliable headlamp is a simple yet brilliant solution. Your phone’s torch is, of course, perfect in an emergency. But try washing the dishes, pouring yourself a coffee or looking for something in your bag while only having one hand free. You’ll immediately notice the difference.

A headlamp isn’t just practical around the campsite. It’s also useful for evening walks, hikes, trips to the washroom and packing up. If you put one on the kids too, you’ll be able to see where they’re running around in the dark.

What lighting should you bring to prepare for the shorter days?

• One reliable headlamp per person
• Spare batteries or a fully charged battery
• A light for inside the tent or by the tent entrance
• Still a must-have in autumn: ambient lighting or string lights in front of the tent

The fact that it gets dark earlier isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Think of it this way: you actually get more time for stargazing, sitting around the campfire and sharing stories under the night sky.

A rainy day at the campsite and holiday resort

There’s no need to give up on camping just because of a September shower, you just need to be prepared. Bring a raincoat and waterproof shoes, and if you’re staying in a tent, a rain cover or tarp. If the rain starts, it’s time to get cosy: play a board game or cards, listen to music, read a good book, or enjoy a chat over a hot cup of tea.

Tip

While it’s raining, head to the restaurant, enjoy a drink at the lakeside bar, order some tasty bites from the beach snack bar and indulge in the flavours of Lake Balaton. At Aranypart Camping & Apartments, you’ll find excellent places to eat and drink right on site.

Learn more about our dining options →

And if it’s just a quick shower, pull on your waterproof boots and head out for a post-rain walk and some photography! Take in nature, the water and the fresh air as everything seems to breathe a little easier after a touch of rain.

Siófok won’t let you down even on a rainy day. You’ll find plenty of indoor activities in the area. At the Galerius Bath, you can easily spend a whole day relaxing and enjoying the wellness facilities, and if you fancy catching a film too, visit the Sió Cinema.

What gear should you bring if it rains?

• Lightweight raincoat.
• Waterproof shoes or a spare pair of footwear.
• A spare set of dry clothes.
• A waterproof bag or dry bag.
• Tarpaulin for your tent.
• A towel and an absorbent cloth.
• A board game, cards and your favourite book.

The gift of autumn weather: a more active pace of life

Autumn camping has a different rhythm. The beach may no longer be the main attraction, but September weather is much more pleasant for a whole range of other activities. Without the summer heat forcing you back into the shade at midday, you can set off on longer hikes, go cycling or boating, and you won’t burn your back in no time like you might in summer, so you can enjoy a leisurely SUP session without a care in the world. The atmosphere of the lakeshore and its sense of tranquillity remain, but the experience is no longer centred around spending the whole day swimming.

What active activities are available at Aranypart Camping & Apartments?

• Sports and activities: mini golf, table football, volleyball, table tennis and mega chess.
• Cycling leisure activities: direct access to the Lake Balaton Cycle Route, with bike rental for adults and children available on an hourly or daily basis.
• Cooking and dining together: a campsite kitchen, cauldron and stand rental, and designated barbecue and fire-pit areas.
• Direct access to the lakeshore: several exits to the public beach, swimming, sunbathing and relaxing by Lake Balaton right from the campsite.

You can read more about them here →

Where are the best places to go hiking around Siófok?

The southern shore of Lake Balaton offers an endless variety of hiking trails. From the popular hiking destinations and attractions in the area, here are our 5 favourites:

1. Töreki Nature Trail: a nature walk through forests, meadows and fishponds, with a birdwatching tower and rest areas along the way.
2. Fehérkő Castle: a forest hike to the medieval castle ruins in Kereki, surrounded by beautiful scenery and historical sights.
3. Kőhegy and Lookout Tower in Zamárdi: an easy hike with a gentle incline, offering panoramic views of Lake Balaton from the lookout tower.
4. Balatonvilágos: the high shore offers breathtaking panoramic views of the eastern basin of Lake Balaton, and it’s worth stopping by Sóstó along the way.
5. Siófok Port: enjoy a pleasant walk around the harbour and along the pier, with panoramic views of Lake Balaton and the option to take a boat trip. The scheduled services also provide access to the wine regions on the northern shore.

Summer is over, but the camping season is still going strong!

Autumn may mean pulling out your jumpers, earlier sunsets and a dewy tent in the morning, but the camping atmosphere still offers the same sense of freedom. If you’re looking for a slightly more peaceful, comfortable and experience-filled getaway, September is one of the best choices. The summer crowds gradually disappear, prices are more affordable, and the pleasant temperatures are ideal for longer hikes, cycling, excursions, outdoor activities and getting a good night’s sleep. Aranypart Camping & Apartments is pet-friendly, so your four-legged companion can join you on your autumn camping adventure. Book directly on our website, where you can reserve your camping pitch in just a few clicks. You can pay by bank card or debit card.

During the autumn season, there are no crowds, prices are more affordable and the weather is more pleasant, making it ideal for hiking, cycling and other outdoor activities. Book a tent place, a caravan pitch or, if you’re looking for complete comfort, choose from our apartments.

You’ll find the best offers on our website – book now!