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LPG Refill Europe: Complete Guide to Gas Bottles and Adapters for Campervans
Master LPG refilling across Europe with our complete guide to connector types (Bayonet, Dish, ACME, Euronozzle), country-by-country tips, propane vs butane, and the best apps for finding stations.
TL;DR:
- Europe uses four LPG connector types: Bayonet (UK, Netherlands, Denmark), Dish (France, Italy, most of Europe), ACME (Germany, Belgium, Ireland), and Euronozzle (Spain, Portugal)
- Invest in a universal adapter kit (around 20-25 GBP) before traveling - it covers all four connector types
- Propane works in all temperatures; butane stops functioning below freezing - choose propane for winter or Scandinavian travel
- Refillable bottle systems (Gaslow, Gasit, Safefill) eliminate country-specific bottle compatibility issues
- The myLPG.eu app maps 48,000+ stations across Europe with motorhome-specific filtering
Running out of gas mid-trip ranks among the most frustrating campervan problems. You are cooking dinner at a scenic coastal spot, the sun is setting perfectly, and suddenly the flame dies. Now you are eating cold beans while frantically searching for a gas station that is probably closed.
I have been there. Most of us have. The good news? With a bit of preparation and the right adapters, keeping your gas supply topped up across Europe becomes straightforward. This guide covers everything you need to know about LPG refilling across the continent - from connector types and terminology to country-specific quirks and the best apps for finding stations.
Why LPG Matters for Campervan Travel
Gas powers the essentials of comfortable van life: cooking, heating, and sometimes your fridge. Unlike electricity, which depends on solar conditions, shore power availability, or noisy generators, LPG provides reliable, instant heat whenever you need it.
| Use Case | Why LPG Wins |
|---|---|
| Cooking | Instant heat control, works in any weather |
| Heating | Consistent warmth without draining batteries |
| Refrigeration | Three-way fridges run on gas when off-grid |
| Hot Water | On-demand heating without electrical load |
The challenge? Europe has not standardized its gas infrastructure. Different countries use different connectors, different bottle systems, and even different terminology. A bottle that fills easily in Germany might be incompatible with pumps in France or Spain.
LPG Terminology: What Gas is Called Across Europe
Before you start searching for gas stations in a new country, you need to know what to search for. The same fuel goes by different names depending on where you are.
| Country | Term | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| UK & Ireland | LPG, Autogas | "El-Pee-Gee" |
| France | GPL (Gaz de Petrole Liquefie) | "Zhay-Pay-El" |
| Germany & Austria | Autogas, Flussiggas | "Ow-toh-gas" |
| Spain | GLP (Gas Licuado de Petroleo), Autogas | "Hay-El-Pay" |
| Portugal | GPL, Gas Liquido | "Zhay-Pay-El" |
| Italy | GPL | "Gee-Pee-El" |
| Netherlands | LPG, Autogas | "El-Pee-Gee" |
| Scandinavia | Propan, Autogas | "Proh-pahn" |
Pro Tip: When asking locals or searching Google Maps, use the local term. Searching "GPL station" in France yields far better results than "LPG station."
The Four LPG Connector Types in Europe
This is where things get interesting - and where preparation pays off. Europe uses four main connector systems, and they are not interchangeable.
Connector Types at a Glance
| Connector | Also Called | How It Works | Primary Countries |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bayonet | Dutch Bayonet | Push and twist to lock | UK, Netherlands, Denmark, Norway |
| Dish | Bowl, DISH | Cup-shaped fitting | France, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, most of Eastern Europe |
| ACME | Screw Thread | Threaded screw connection | Germany, Belgium, Ireland, Luxembourg |
| Euronozzle | Euro Connector | Spanish standard | Spain, Portugal |
Bayonet Connector
The bayonet system uses a push-and-twist mechanism similar to a light bulb fitting. It creates a gas-tight seal quickly and is the standard in the UK. Good news for UK travelers: this same connector works in the Netherlands, Denmark, and Norway without any adapter.
Dish (Bowl) Connector
The dish connector looks like a shallow cup or bowl and is the most common system across continental Europe. You will encounter it in France, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, and throughout Eastern Europe including Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary, Croatia, Slovenia, Greece, and many more countries.
ACME Connector
ACME connectors use a simple screw thread - think of it like screwing on a bottle cap. This system dominates in Germany, Belgium, Ireland, and Luxembourg. If you are traveling through the German-speaking countries, this is your primary connector.
Euronozzle
Despite the name suggesting European standardization, the Euronozzle is primarily used in Spain and Portugal. If your route includes the Iberian Peninsula, you will need this adapter.
Country-by-Country LPG Guide
United Kingdom
Connector: Bayonet
Terminology: LPG, Autogas
The UK has a well-established LPG network, though coverage is thinner in rural Scotland and Wales. Most major fuel station chains stock LPG. Your UK bayonet connector will also work without adapters in the Netherlands, Denmark, and Norway.
Key consideration: You cannot exchange UK gas bottles in continental Europe. If you rely on exchangeable bottles (Calor, Flogas), switch to a refillable system before extended European travel.
France
Connector: Dish
Terminology: GPL, Autogas
France has excellent LPG coverage, particularly along major routes and near large towns. Large supermarkets (Intermarche, Carrefour, Auchan) often have automated GPL vending machines for exchangeable bottles.
For refillable systems, use the Gaspal app to find stations and compare prices. The app shows real-time pricing, which varies more than you might expect between stations.
Warning: German gas cylinders cannot be exchanged or filled in France. If you are coming from Germany with standard German bottles, either switch to a refillable system or purchase French bottles (Butagaz, Antargaz) with a D4 adapter.
Pro Tip: Keep your French bottle deposit receipts. You can return bottles and reclaim the deposit (usually 25-40 EUR) when leaving the country or at any participating station.
Germany
Connector: ACME
Terminology: Autogas, Flussiggas
Germany has excellent LPG infrastructure with thousands of stations. German gas cylinders are the most travel-friendly in Europe - they can be filled or exchanged in Austria, Poland, Slovenia, and many other countries.
The ACME screw thread is straightforward to use, though you must ensure a proper seal before opening the gas flow.
Spain
Connector: Euronozzle
Terminology: GLP, Autogas
Spain presents more challenges. LPG bottles are typically leased from Repsol or Cepsa rather than purchased outright, which creates complications for foreign travelers. Some stations will only fill bottles with Spanish certification.
Workarounds:
- Campsites often have gas available or know local sources
- Expat communities (particularly on the Costa Blanca and Costa del Sol) share reliable filling locations
- The German caravan service in Sant Pere Pescador near Barcelona provides German-compatible filling
- Refillable systems with the right adapter generally work at commercial fuel stations
Portugal
Connector: Euronozzle
Terminology: GPL, Gas Liquido
Similar to Spain, Portugal does not permit filling of foreign (German, UK) gas cylinders. Use local Repsol or Cepsa bottles with a clip-on adapter, or rely on a refillable system.
For detailed information on traveling Portugal, including current regulations and best overnight spots, see our Portugal Campervan Guide 2026.
Italy
Connector: Dish
Terminology: GPL
Italy is relatively straightforward for gas. German cylinders can usually be exchanged or filled, though you will need a dish adapter. Campsite receptions typically know the nearest filling stations and may offer filling services themselves.
GPL stations are common, particularly in northern Italy and along major tourist routes.
Netherlands
Connector: Bayonet
Terminology: LPG, Autogas
Good news for UK travelers: the Netherlands uses the same bayonet system, so no adapter needed. The country has excellent LPG coverage given its popularity as a vehicle fuel here.
Dutch gray bottles are compatible with the German system, making the Netherlands an easy country for gas logistics.
Scandinavia (Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland)
Key fact: Propane is standard across Scandinavia. Butane does not work reliably in these climates.
| Country | Connector | German Bottle Exchange | Loose Bottle Refilling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denmark | Bayonet + Clip-on | No | Authorized specialists only |
| Sweden | Local system (industrikoppling) | No | Requires POL adapter |
| Norway | Dish + Bayonet | No | Specialized facilities only |
| Finland | Clip-on (AGA, Linde) | No | Very limited |
Critical rule: Loose cylinders cannot be refilled at public LPG pumps anywhere in Scandinavia. Only permanently installed tanks or approved tank cylinders with 80-percent fill stops qualify for refilling.
Denmark offers the best infrastructure with 24/7 automated exchange stations. Check gasautomaten.dk for locations. Kosan-Gas provides cylinders throughout the country.
Norway has an extensive network through LPG Norge (lpgnorge.no), though most stations charge per fill rather than per kilogram, making partial refills expensive.
Sweden uses a local system incompatible with standard European connectors. You need a special Swedish high-pressure hose with POL soft connection for refilling.
Finland has the most limited infrastructure. You cannot have German cylinders filled or exchanged. Plan your gas supply carefully before entering Finland, or purchase local AGA or Tehokaasu cylinders upon arrival.
Austria & Switzerland
Connector: Dish (Austria also accepts ACME in many locations)
Terminology: Autogas, Flussiggas
Austria uses the same bottle system as Germany, making cross-border travel seamless. Switzerland uses Vitogaz and Flaga bottles, but note that the seal between pressure reducer and gas cylinder differs - you need an adapter and potentially a different pressure regulator.
Eastern Europe
Most Eastern European countries use the Dish connector system. German bottles can typically be filled in Poland, Slovenia, and Croatia (check that inspection is within 5 years for Croatia). Greece has no issues with cylinder supply.
Refillable vs. Exchange Bottles: Which System to Choose?
This is one of the most important decisions for long-term European travel.
Exchange Bottles
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| No upfront investment | Country-specific - cannot exchange across borders |
| Simple swap process | Must find participating dealer |
| No maintenance required | Deposit systems vary by country |
| Available at supermarkets | Quality and fill levels inconsistent |
Best for: Short trips within a single country, or travelers who prefer simplicity over flexibility.
Refillable Systems (Gaslow, Gasit, Safefill)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fill anywhere LPG is available | Higher upfront cost (150-400 GBP) |
| Universal with right adapters | Requires installation |
| Pay only for gas used | Annual inspection recommended |
| Eliminate bottle logistics | Learning curve for first fills |
Best for: Extended European travel, crossing multiple countries, or anyone tired of bottle compatibility headaches.
Pro Tip: The initial investment in a refillable system typically pays for itself within 6-12 months of travel when you factor in avoided exchange fees and the flexibility to fill whenever convenient rather than when forced.
Propane vs. Butane: Which Gas Should You Use?
Understanding the difference matters, especially for winter travel or high-altitude trips.
| Factor | Propane | Butane |
|---|---|---|
| Boiling Point | -42C (-44F) | -0.5C (31F) |
| Cold Weather Performance | Works in all conditions | Stops vaporizing below freezing |
| Energy Content | Slightly lower | Slightly higher |
| Availability | Standard in Northern Europe | Common in Southern Europe |
| Tank Pressure | Higher | Lower |
When to Choose Propane
- Winter travel anywhere in Europe
- Scandinavia (year-round)
- Mountain areas above 1,500m
- Shoulder season trips (October-April)
When Butane Works Fine
- Summer travel in Southern Europe
- Coastal Mediterranean trips
- Budget-conscious short trips (slightly cheaper in some countries)
Most European LPG is a propane/butane mix. The ratio varies by country and season. Northern countries and winter blends contain more propane; Mediterranean summer supplies lean toward butane. Commercial LPG at fuel stations is typically propane-dominant, making it the safer choice for year-round reliability.
Essential Adapter Kit: What to Pack
Before leaving home, invest in a universal adapter kit. These typically cost 20-30 GBP and save enormous hassle.
Recommended Kit Contents
| Adapter | For Countries |
|---|---|
| Bayonet (base) | UK, Netherlands, Denmark, Norway |
| Dish adapter | France, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, Eastern Europe |
| ACME adapter | Germany, Belgium, Ireland, Luxembourg |
| Euronozzle adapter | Spain, Portugal |
How they work: Most UK and Northern European motorhomes have a bayonet LPG connector, which is internally threaded. The adapters simply screw on, converting your bayonet fitting to dish, ACME, or Euronozzle as needed.
Brands to consider: Drehmeister, Gaslow, and generic kits from LPG specialists all work well. The brass construction is standard and durable.
Important: Only fill bottles with integrated 80-percent fill stop valves at public LPG pumps. This safety device prevents overfilling and is legally required in most European countries.
Safety Tips for LPG Refilling
Gas is generally safe when handled properly, but respect is warranted.
Before Filling
- Ensure your system is inspected and certified (G 607 inspection for Germany, similar standards elsewhere)
- Check hoses and connections for wear or damage
- Verify the 80% fill stop valve is functioning
- Turn off all gas appliances in your van
During Filling
- Keep hands away from the connection point
- Do not smoke or use mobile phones near the pump
- Watch the gauge - stop if you see any leaks
- Know that a sharp blast of gas when disconnecting is normal (it will make you jump every time)
For Ferry Crossings
Most ferry operators require:
- Gas cylinders turned off at the bottle
- Fill valves accessible for inspection
- Declaration of LPG on board
Channel Tunnel note: LPG tanks for domestic use (cooking/heating) are permitted. Vehicle LPG fuel systems are prohibited.
Driving with Gas
Some countries require:
- Crash sensor for driving with active gas systems
- Hose rupture protection devices
- Gas shut-off accessible from outside the vehicle
Scandinavia enforces these regulations strictly - check your system meets requirements before crossing borders.
Apps and Resources for Finding LPG Stations
myLPG.eu (Recommended)
The most comprehensive resource, covering 70+ countries with 48,000+ stations. Available as a free app (iOS and Android) or web map.
Key features:
- Filter for motorhome-compatible stations
- 24/7 availability filtering
- Connector type filtering
- User-updated prices and availability
- Cautions (out of LPG, not for motorhomes, etc.)
Caveat: Some listings are outdated. Use as a guide rather than gospel, and have a backup plan.
Gaspal (France)
Essential for France-focused travel. Shows real-time GPL prices and station availability. Particularly useful for finding the cheapest options in a region.
LPG Norge (Norway)
The definitive source for Norway, with detailed station listings and pricing information.
gasautomaten.dk (Denmark)
Lists all 24/7 automated gas exchange stations in Denmark.
General Tips
- Download maps for offline use before entering areas with poor connectivity
- Cross-reference multiple sources when planning remote routes
- Call ahead for small or rural stations
- Note that some stations differentiate between "leisure gas" (for motorhomes) and "autogas" (vehicle fuel) - not all pumps serve both
Practical Scenarios: Solving Common Problems
Scenario 1: Running Low in Rural France
You are in the Dordogne, gas gauge showing empty, and it is Sunday evening.
Solution:
- Use Gaspal to find the nearest 24/7 station or supermarket with GPL machines
- Large Intermarche and Carrefour locations often have automated GPL vending even when the main store is closed
- Alternatively, note that most French aires have other campers - someone may have a spare bottle to trade
Scenario 2: Crossing from Germany to Spain
Your German bottles will not work in Spain, and you are planning a month on the peninsula.
Solution:
- Option A: Install refillable system before departure and carry Euronozzle adapter
- Option B: Use remaining German gas through France, then purchase Spanish Repsol/Cepsa bottles upon arrival
- Option C: Stock up at French GPL stations (dish connector compatible with German fittings) and stretch supply through Spain
Scenario 3: Nordic Winter Trip
You are planning a winter Norway trip and your system has butane.
Solution:
- Switch to propane before departure - butane will not vaporize in Nordic winter temperatures
- Ensure your system is inspected and certified
- Carry extra propane capacity (refillable system ideal)
- Download LPG Norge app and pre-plan filling stops
- Remember: loose cylinders cannot be filled at public pumps in Scandinavia
Frequently Asked Questions
What adapters do I need for LPG refilling in Europe?
A complete European adapter kit includes four types: Bayonet (UK standard, also works in Netherlands, Denmark, Norway), Dish (France, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, Eastern Europe), ACME (Germany, Belgium, Ireland, Luxembourg), and Euronozzle (Spain, Portugal). Kits containing all four cost around 20-30 GBP and screw onto your existing bayonet fitting.
Can I exchange UK gas bottles in France or Germany?
No. UK gas bottles (Calor, Flogas) cannot be exchanged or refilled in continental Europe. The systems are incompatible. For extended European travel, either install a refillable system before departure or plan to purchase local bottles in each country.
Is propane or butane better for campervans?
Propane is more versatile. It works reliably down to -42C, while butane stops vaporizing around freezing point. For year-round or cold-weather travel, propane is essential. Summer-only Mediterranean trips can use either, though most commercial LPG stations provide propane-dominant blends.
What is the best app for finding LPG stations in Europe?
myLPG.eu is the most comprehensive, covering 70+ countries with 48,000+ stations. It includes motorhome-specific filtering, connector type information, and user-updated availability. For France specifically, Gaspal provides real-time pricing. For Norway, use LPG Norge.
Can I refill gas bottles in Scandinavia?
Loose cylinders cannot be refilled at public LPG pumps anywhere in Scandinavia. Only permanently installed tanks or approved tank cylinders with 80-percent fill stops qualify. You can exchange local bottles or use 24/7 automated exchange stations (particularly good coverage in Denmark).
What does GPL mean?
GPL (Gaz de Petrole Liquefie) is simply the French and Italian term for LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas). In Spain, it is GLP (Gas Licuado de Petroleo). In Germany, you will see Autogas or Flussiggas. All refer to the same fuel.
Planning Your Gas Strategy
Before any European trip, consider these questions:
- Which countries am I visiting? This determines which adapters you need.
- What season? Winter travel means propane is essential.
- How long? Extended trips justify refillable system investment.
- What is my current setup? Exchange bottles, refillable, or fixed tank?
For multi-country tours, a refillable system with a complete adapter kit offers the most flexibility. For single-country trips, local exchange bottles often work fine.
Where to find overnight spots: Planning your route? RoamLife helps you discover aires, Stellplatze, and other overnight spots with the amenities you need - including proximity to services like gas stations. Our AI-powered recommendations consider your van setup and travel preferences to suggest the best places to stay.
Further Reading
For more European campervan travel guides:
- Complete Guide to Aires in France - Everything about French motorhome stopovers
- Complete Guide to Stellplatze in Germany - German motorhome parking explained
- Wild Camping Laws in Europe 2026 - Legal overnight parking by country
- Portugal Campervan Guide 2026 - Current rules and best routes
Last updated: January 2026