Whether you want to “rough it” with basic camping, or prefer the “glamping” approach, there are some important things you should consider.

Top 5 tips for camping in the UK

1. Be prepared for the weather – Whether you are going for the basic approach, or the take-everything-in-the-car-you-can-possibly-fit-in approach, you will need to make sure you can stay dry and warm. So make sure your tent is waterproof. Check the seams, and treat with a waterproofer every year, especially if it is canvas. Pitch the tent in the garden and put the garden hose on it to make sure there are no leaks. Make sure you have suitable warm and waterproof clothing, and sunscreen/hats if you are going in the summer. A sleeping bag suitable for the time of year you are travelling is also essential.

2. Choose the right site – Some sites are very basic and may offer no more than running water, whereas others will have electricity, entertainment facilities, laundries and gyms. Sites such as UKcampsite.co.uk will let you enter your requirements and search for sites. You will also be able to read reviews of the sites. If you have particular requirements such as wanting to have a camp fire, or an adults only site, then you will also be able to search by these criteria.

3. Get the best equipment you can afford – The basics you will need are a tent, a sleeping mat, a sleeping bag (or duvet), a torch, and a water carrier of some kind. If you plan to cook you will need some type of camping stove (open fires are permitted only on a minority of campsites in the UK), and cooking and eating utensils. A flask is also useful. It’s fine to start with cheap equipment and then upgrade once you know you enjoy it, but the better equipment will be more efficient and will usually last longer.

4. Think about safety – Campsites are generally safe places but it is important that you take care of your belongings. Don’t leave anything valuable in your tent and lock anything expensive in your car overnight. Don’t pitch your tent too close to another one, as that can pose a fire risk. If you are out on the site at night, make sure you have a torch as it can be difficult to see guy ropes and it is easy to trip. You can get special luminous guy ropes which are easier to see. If you have small children, other safety measures are available, such as bells for the flaps of your tent so you know if someone is leaving or coming into your tent. Camping websites and forums have some great information about equipment, and about safety.

5. Relax – Camping holidays don’t always go to plan. Be prepared to change your itinerary, and to deal with little adventures. If you face them in a relaxed and positive way, they could well turn into the happy memories of your holiday.

Andrew writes frequently about travel and eco-holidays. He also maintains a blog on solar panels .

http://www.goearthfriendlynow.com/