Tent living is supposed to be simple and uncomplicated – and following campsite rules and advice helps make it so for everybody
Despite the appeal of getting away from it all, at peak times campsites can be pretty busy and most site etiquette comes down to a combination of common sense, courtesy and mutual respect.
The written rules on sites are usually prominent and easy to follow; the unwritten rules are usually based on simply being a considerate person. When you arrive at a campsite, take the time to read and understand the rules and make sure the others in your party are also in the picture.
As far as making sense of the rules and customs goes, the simple advice is: be aware and, if in doubt, ask.
BOOKING AND ARRIVAL
When you make a booking, be clear about what you want and expect and what you are paying to avoid confusion and disappointment on arrival. Many sites don’t allow larger tents or charge more for them, and there can be extra payments for other facilities. Check in advance as it might not be possible to remedy a misunderstanding later.
Follow all the campsite rules rather than picking and choosing what makes sense to you.
Be sure to arrive on time and if you’re going to be early or very late, phone ahead to make sure someone will be there to check you in.
Always leave on time; if you’ve got an early departure, often you can settle up your bill the evening before you set off.
HEALTH AND HYGIENE
Keeping your pitch clean and free from rubbish benefits everybody and there really is no excuse for litter around a tent. Apart from looking scruffy, it might attract vermin and, of course, is inconsiderate to your neighbours (who might be a lot closer than those at home).
Put all your rubbish in the right bin.
Be sure to tidy up after yourself when using the loos, washrooms, showers and washing up sinks. Look out for squeegee mops to wipe down the shower after use.
Clean up all food and scraps from shared picnic tables.
Check and double-check your pitch before leaving to pick up all rubbish and anything you might have left behind – tent pegs are the most common item. Discarded pegs can damage other campers’ groundsheets and play havoc with lawnmowers.
SAFETY AND PRIVACY
Observe the campsite speed limit rules. Having to drive slowly where there are children playing should not be an inconvenience.
Arriving or leaving, do not leave your engine idling for more than a minute or two.
The continual slamming of car doors, especially in the evening, is extremely annoying, so don’t do it!
Don’t take a shortcu
