How to be a goodCamping neighbour

Everyone needs goodNeighbours

Being a good camping neighbour comes down to good old fashioned common sense. Being considerate of your fellow campers, campsite and environment will help make everyone’s stay more enjoyable.

As simple and obvious as some of the rules may be, it’s worth reminding yourself before going away, and if you’re travelling with children, to make sure that they know the rules as well.

In loose terms, behave in a way that doesn’t disturb the other campers around you, and have as little impact on the environment and your surroundings as possible. Simple.

Camping Etiquette

Call ahead to let the campsite know your ETA (particularly when running a bit late so they can arrange for someone to meet you on arrival)
Respect the campsites rules and policy – when staying at a campsite make a point of looking over the rules on arrival and avoid any unnecessary misunderstandings
Drive slowly through campsite grounds and obey the speed limits as there’ll likely be people on bikes, children playing and dogs walking
Don’t leave your engine idling for too long – diesel engines are particularly noisy
If you’re using a generator, make sure the campsite permits it, and try and use it sparingly (and never at night)
Respect the natural environment around you
Walk around, not through other people’s pitches
Keep the noise down – be respectful of other campers, especially at night. Some people like to camp for the peace and tranquillity it can offer. If you’ve got kids who like to run around all day then perhaps look for more family oriented sites
Stick to the paths and trails when out walking
Don’t feed the wildlife
Check out on time
Be friendly – one of the most important aspects of camping etiquette is to get along with the other campers. We’re not saying that you have to invite them round for a drink and a game of buckaroo, but a friendly smile and a hello when passing can go a long way

Hygiene & Waste

Dispose of your waste water in an appropriate place, either a drain or a Motorhome Service Point. Most campsites have designated areas for you to do this. Check what the rules are when you arrive
Put all your waste food into bins to avoid attracting unwanted insects and wildlife
Always empty the toilet cassette at a proper disposal point
Before you depart make sure to clean and tidy your pitch, doing your best to leave no trace that you were ever there

Petiquette

Always clean up after your pets
Never leave your pets unattended
Always keep them on a lead
Check ahead of time that the campsite allows pets!

Camping with Children

You should always know where your kids are and what they’re doing
If the kids want to run around and make noise try and stick to the designated play areas
Keep toys and balls out of other people’s pitches

Campfires

Always check with the site if you are allowed to start a campfire. Some may have portable fire pits to use so as not to burn the grass
Check with campsite staff their rules before collecting wood, dead or otherwise. If the site allows campfires then they will probably sell firewood to use
Never cut living trees for firewood
Only burn wood and paper. Nothing that could be dangerous or unpleasant to other nearby campers
Don’t leave your campfire unattended. Always make sure it has been completely extinguished before leaving or going to bed