Under Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s roadmap out of lockdown, camping, caravan and self-contained staycations have now been given the green light. This weekend will be the first since the rule lifted, and many campsites across the UK are fully booked.
With Covid-weary Britons likely eager for a change of scenery, there could be a number of first-time campers among those pitching tents this weekend.
Though holidaymakers may be used to packing for a typical overseas jaunt, it turns out packing for camping is somewhat different.
Luckily, a team of campsite regulars got together to share their top tips for camping on a Reddit forum.
Alongside the obvious tent, sleeping bags, and food, there were some other items that will make all of the difference during a tent stay.
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Another user pointed out a flask was also crucial for ensuring all beverages were at the desired temperature.
They recommended “a flask or two for keeping coffee/tea/your hot beverage of choice warm in.”
The camper explained: “Waiting for a kettle to boil just so you can have a cup of something warm can be a pain, especially if it’s wet and cold, and a warm coffee straight away is better than a hot one in ten minutes time.”
They added: “[This is] especially helpful if you need hot water to warm a baby bottle etc.”
According to campers, it is also a good idea to think about the time of day you might suddenly find yourself parched.
“Make sure you have some smaller bottles for water to keep in the tent whilst you sleep,” wrote a Reddit user.
“If you wake up thirsty during the night it saves having to get up and pour out a cup or struggle with a big container.”
The popularity of camping holidays from the April 12 green light has been consistently on the rise amid uncertainty over travel restrictions for international journeys.
As a result, a number of pop-up campsites have also begun to spring up across the UK to accommodate the influx of travellers.
According to Dan Yates, managing director of Pitchup, around 500 new pop-up sites should be available by July.
The variety of camping options now on offer, including a boost in glamping alternatives, means “there is something for everyone”.
Mr Yates said: “The scale of demand this year is going to be enormous but I would say to holidaymakers that summer is not fully booked. Have a look online. There’s something for everyone.
“A lot of these sites are away from the traditional ‘honeypot’ coastal areas, they’re secluded. These farms let you see where the food on your plate comes from. It’s great for kids.”