Camping under the stars is a lovely way to spend an evening or short break, and there’s no need to buy campervans, you can hire them from local owners (with safety caveats in place) at Camplify or GoBoony. However to be a happy camper for all, take your litter home with you (use a personal ashtray if you smoke to stub out butts, until you find a bin). And choose (unscented) biodegradable cleaning and laundry products (that don’t create algae bloom. Also ensure dogs are trained, so they know recall if spotting other dogs or wildlife, to keep all creatures safe.
Follow the 7 Leave No Trace Rules to ensure you leave just memories and footprints, and no trash that could harm the planet or wildlife. These are:
- Plan ahead & prepare
- Camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you wind
- Minimise campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of others
take a little break in a caravan
Everyone loves a break in a caravan! It may not be posh, but it’s quintessentially English. You may get your feet wet and the caravan may wobble a bit, but it’s all good fun! It’s also one of the most affordable ways to take a break either in the country or by the seaside, and most parks have static caravans, which is better than lugging a caravan on the back of your car and getting stuck in traffic jams.
A guide to camping with children
The Guide to Camping with Kids is a bestselling USA guidebook that is written by a seasoned camper and mother of three children. A practical guide, it offers tips for a safe family camping experience (including your four-legged family friends). Each chapter includes helpful checklists for car campers, backpacking, canoe and kayak trips, with ideas on outdoor etiquette. Learn how to choose a destination, pack gear and food, set up your campsite and stay safe.
The Green Camping Book is by the man who created the ‘2-minute beach clean’ movement. A lifelong camper, learn how to make more sustainable choices on kit, where to stay, how to travel, what to wear and how we can fight for green spaces we love. An ideal book for people who wish to reduce impact and carbon footprint, but won’t want to stop exploring.