The Key Rules to Wild Camping

Wild camping is sleeping outdoors pretty much anywhere other than a campsite. This can be done in a tent and is ideally done quite far away from any roads or buildings. It's the perfect way to escape from the stresses of everyday life whilst also exploring the wonderful scenery of this world. However, there are some key rules that you have to follow if you are to have a successful and safe trip. Here are the ones that we feel you should be aware of:

Firstly, you have to follow the Outdoor Access Code. You have to make sure that you leave no trace of where you have camped and also make sure that you don’t disturb other people or wildlife whilst you’re there. Also make sure that you don’t dig ditches, trample on plants or move rocks.

Secondly, know where you’re going. It’s not as simple to just pick up your tent and head off- wild camping is allowed in most of Scotland (some restrictions apply near Loch Lomond) and on Dartmoor in Devon, but currently it is technically illegal elsewhere in England and Wales without the landowner’s consent. Consequently, if you want to travel to areas like the Lake District, responsible wild camping in certain places on higher ground is tolerated.

Another tip to know about is that you should pitch your tent up as late at night as possible and then pack up again as early as you can the next day.

You shouldn’t stay in the same place for any longer than a night or two.

You should also pay attention to ‘no camping’ signs, you should keep it to a small group and also look for a site that is flat and sheltered from the wind.

You should always stay well clear of pitching up in fields that have crops or grazing livestock inside.

When people pack to go camping they often pack a lot of luxury items, however, you really only need a tent, a sleeping bag, a sleeping mat, some kind of cooking gear, food, a water bottle, a torch, your smartphone and a rucksack. Anything else is just a luxury.

It’s always a bonus if you can choose a tent with a colour that blends well with the scenery. If you check out our shop you will be able to find lots of different tents that do this perfectly- maybe try having a look at our Pioneer tent in particular.

You should also try to avoid lighting a fire, even if you can tell that other people have done so. The landowner may find this extremely disrespectful so it’s best to just stick to your camping stove and put more layers on if you're cold.

It is important to leave the site as you found it. As well as packing up your own litter, try taking away any you came across whilst you were there too.

Finally, before heading off, you should always let someone know roughly where you will be and when you’re expected to be back.

Happy camping everyone!