Sleeping under the stars, getting back to nature, and having fun with the kids – a classic family camping trip is an amazing and affordable way to create lasting memories.
There’s never been a better time to whisk your family away on a camping adventure here in the UK, and here are just a few of the reasons why we think it’s worth revisiting the classic camping holidays of our youths this summer.
Camping is affordable
The cost-of-living crisis and rising energy bills mean we’re all watching our pennies a little more closely right now, and looking for opportunities to save money wherever we can. Camping is a great choice here because it’s generally more affordable than other holiday types.
The only accommodation you’ll need to pay for is a spot at a campsite and, other than that, it’s tents, camping essentials and food that are the other main expenses (some of which you may already have).
Wild camping
To keep costs down even further, you could also choose to go ‘wild camping’, which is where you set up your tent outside of a campsite or caravan park. It’s an amazing way of really escaping from daily life and getting back to nature, although there are a couple of key rules and requirements to bear in mind:
• Check where you can legally camp before you make any plans as you’ll need the landowner’s permission in the majority of England, Wales, and Northern Ireland (some sites in Scotland also require you to get permits).
• Create the minimum impact on your chosen area
• Leave no trace of your stay behind when you leave.
Nearly-wild camping
Another budget-friendly option is ‘nearly-wild camping’, where you stay at a campsite that has minimal facilities. It’s a good compromise between wild camping and a full campsite and means you can focus on just paying for the facilities that matter to you.
Enjoy a range of camping facilities
As much as we love both wild and nearly-wild camping, there’s also a lot to be said for having quick and convenient access to a whole host of facilities. Larger campsites and caravan parks will often have kids’ play areas, game rooms, swimming pools, and even wi-fi, alongside the standard showers, toilets, and pitching spaces.
This gives your family instant access to built-in entertainment without even needing to leave the site. Your kids will love being able to dive into the swimming pool on a hot summer’s day or relax in the games room after dinner.
And if you’re looking for slightly more luxurious accommodation, many campsites offer this too. From tipis and tents to yurts and eco-pods, it’s easy to find a level that suits your family’s needs. Our Beginner’s Guide to Camping lists some of our favourite campsites in the UK and shows what facilities they offer, so be sure to check it out if you’re looking for some inspiration.
Equally, if you’re planning to pitch your own tent and you need a bit of guidance, check out our recent blog on Family camping: Tips and tricks for the perfect tent set-up for some handy advice.
Get back to nature
We mentioned it briefly earlier, but one of the best benefits of any type of camping is being able to get back to nature and enjoy the great outdoors. We’re lucky here in the UK that we’ve got access to acres and acres of beautiful camping land and a family camping holiday will take full advantage of that.
With camping, fresh air and the potential for exercise are right on your doorstep. There is an abundance of games you can play and paths you can explore away from the screens and distractions we have become so used to in everyday life. So, swap the smartphones and laptops for a bat, ball, frisbee or bike and make the most of your time away.
Make new memories
The British family camping holiday is a classic for a reason and many of us have memories from childhood of trips away with our families. Whether you pick a spot that’s ten minutes down the road or go on an epic road trip to reach your destination, it’s an opportunity to spend some quality time together and make lasting memories without breaking the bank.
So before you book that flight or reserve that hotel room, why not consider a camping holiday this summer instead? It might surprise you!
Set yourself up for your camping holiday in style with our camping essentials including tents, sleeping bags, coolboxes, camping furniture, and more. Our blog on the Top 10 camping must-haves will be a useful read, so make sure to check it out.
And don’t forget to make sure your car is ready to handle the journey by booking a Free 5-Point Car Check. One of our talented technicians will check your headlights, the condition of your wiper blades, your battery’s health, and more, so you can get away safely and smoothly.
We also offer a range of roof boxes and bike racks to help you on your journey, as well as extensive in-car tech products. Head to Halfords.com to find out more.
