A Guide on Wild Camping for Motorhomes in the UK

Owning a motorhome gives you the freedom to explore remote places and experience true adventure, and wild camping is possibly the best way to do that! However, wild camping for motorhomes isn’t as simple as parking anywhere with a great view, as there are rules to follow and other important things to consider. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about wild motorhome camping in the UK, from legalities to essential tips for a safe and unforgettable trip.

What Is Motorhome Wild Camping?

Wild camping for motorhomes means driving to a remote spot of your choice and staying there without access to facilities like waste disposal, running water, or electricity. You might find yourself off-grid, surrounded by nature, with a free overnight parking spot and no strings attached…sounds exciting, right? Some call it motorhome wild camping, while others refer to it as free camping, off-grid parking, or boondocking.

But if you’ve ever done it before, you’ll know it’s not always that simple:

• First, you need to find a legal and safe place to park.
• Then, there’s the unwritten etiquette of wild camping, plus a few best (and worst) practices to keep in mind.
• You’ll also need essential gear to stay comfortable and self-sufficient. Don’t worry, we’ll cover everything you need to know, so keep reading!

Legal Status of Wild Motorhome Camping in the UK

If you’ve wild camped in Europe, you’ll quickly notice that in comparison, the UK has stricter motorhome and campervan parking laws. So, is wild camping in a motorhome even legal in the UK? Well, it depends on where you are.

In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, wild camping in a motorhome or touring caravan is not permitted by law unless you have explicit permission from the landowner. Some people park in remote areas without permission and occasionally get away with it, but this is considered trespassing. Ignoring the rules can lead to fines, being moved on, or giving the motorhome community a bad reputation.

Scotland is a little different, but not in the way many people think. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code allows wild camping, which often causes confusion among motorhome owners. However, the law only applies to “lightweight camping”, meaning on foot with a tent, not in vehicles.

Motorhomes, campervans, and caravans must stay on highways or in designated parking areas. You cannot park on private land without permission, even in remote areas. Failing to follow these rules can lead to legal trouble and restrictions on motorhome camping in Scotland.

Key Takeaways on Legalities

• England, Wales, and Northern Ireland: Wild camping in a motorhome is illegal without landowner permission.
• Scotland: Wild camping laws apply only to tent camping, not motorhomes or campervans.
• Private land: You must get permission before parking overnight.
• Ignoring the rules can lead to trespassing fines, being moved on, or restrictions on future wild camping.

Once You Get the Permission – Rules to Follow

If you managed to find a motorhome parking spot, be it overnight or for a longer period of time, good on you. Even so, there are still some unwritten motorhome camping rules you need to follow. Here’s everything you should know:

• Respect Private Property: If you’re wild camping, you’re likely parked on someone else’s land. Treat it with respect! Don’t damage crops, trees, or grassy patches, and always leave the area as you found it.
• Campfire Safety: Avoid lighting campfires unless there’s a designated fire pit. It may be tempting, but the risk of wildfires and damage to the environment outweighs the benefits. In some areas, fires are strictly prohibited, so always check local regulations.
• Toilet Rules: Your toilet cassette (black waste) must be disposed of at an official waste disposal point. If there are none available, some wild campers use public toilets, but this may be illegal (the law on this is unclear). Grey water from sinks or showers can sometimes be disposed of in a public drain or open land with the landowner’s permission.
• Don’t Overstay Your Welcome: Most wild campers move on after two or three days in one spot. Staying longer increases the chance of complaints and may lead to tighter restrictions on wild camping. If in doubt, you should leave sooner rather than later.
• Leave No Trace: Always follow the Leave No Trace principles! This means taking all your rubbish with you and disposing of it properly. Never leave litter, food scraps, or damage behind, as this ruins the experience for others and can lead to camping bans.
• Be Discreet & Respectful: Keep a low profile and avoid drawing attention to yourself. Don’t play loud music, block access roads, or disrupt the local community. If a landowner or official asks you to move on, do so politely and without argument.
• Avoid Confrontation: Unfortunately, some locals dislike wild campers due to past bad experiences. While most people are friendly, you may encounter those who see all wild campers as irresponsible. Stay calm, be respectful, and don’t engage in unnecessary conflicts.

This list is, by no means, conclusive, but it should give you an overview of what’s permitted and what’s frowned upon during a wild camping adventure. Also, remember that obtaining permission from the landowner is crucial. Still, you may be asked to move somewhere else with your motorhome, and it’s best you do so without complaint.

Motorhome Wild Camping – How to Find the Best Spots

Finding the perfect wild camping spot for your motorhome takes common sense, preparation, and a focus on safety. You’ll often be far from civilisation, in quiet, scenic areas that make wild camping so exciting. However, safety is key, especially if you’re travelling with children.

Follow these steps to find the best spots for wild camping for motorhomes:

1. Use dedicated wild camping apps. Apps like Park4Night, Searchforsites, and Campercontact help locate suitable overnight parking spots. Many also have user reviews and safety ratings.
2. Look for unserviced wild camping fields at caravan parks. Some campsites allow wild camping in separate areas with fewer facilities. This is a great middle-ground option between total off-grid camping and a formal campsite.
3. Avoid busy car parks and tourist hotspots. True wild motorhome camping means staying in quiet, remote areas. Car parks and well-known tourist sites are often patrolled and may have restrictions on overnight stays.
4. Use common sense when choosing a spot. Stay away from private land, don’t block roads or farm entrances, and pick areas that are flat and sheltered from strong winds.
5. Check for signage and restrictions. Some areas explicitly prohibit overnight stays, so always look for signs before setting up camp.
6. Consider safety at all times. Make sure the location is well away from main roads, has good visibility, and allows for a quick and easy departure if needed.

Motorhome Wild Camping Essentials

Before setting off on a wild camping trip in your motorhome or campervan, make sure you have the right essentials for a safe and comfortable experience. It’s tempting to just hit the road and figure things out as you go, but trust us, being prepared makes all the difference. Below, you’ll find a checklist of all the essentials:

• Motorhome Safety Kit: You’ll need one for every road trip in your motorhome or campervan. What should be inside? A fire blanket and extinguisher, a smoke alarm, and a carbon monoxide detector. After all, you’re travelling with gas onboard, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.
• Tyre Repair Kit: Every driver’s worst nightmare! Many motorhomes don’t have a spare tyre but they do have a tyre repair kit. Learn how to use it in case of an emergency.
• Roadside Emergency Kit: You can find some that contain a number of items, such as a first aid kit, warning triangle, a basic toolkit with automobile tools, and a bulb kit with fuses.
• Sat Navigation: Since you plan to go wild camping, it simply is a must!
• Hosepipe: You’ll need it to fill your water tanks. We recommend using a proper, food-grade hose, but you can also opt for a flat hose that is easier to store.
• Mud Mats: You think they’re unnecessary until you get stuck on a muddy field. If only you had taken those mud mats with you!
• A Lightweight Head Torch: You’ll need it at night in case you want to go outside.

Motorhome Living Essentials

Once you get your dream campervan and you’re ready for some wild camping, you’ll need a number of motorhome accessories that will make your life so much easier. Having these accessories will make your stay more pleasant, even if you’re only staying out for one night.

1. Toilet Paper and Toilet Chemicals

A functioning toilet is a lifesaver when wild camping, so be sure to bring plenty of biodegradable toilet paper and the right toilet chemicals for your cassette toilet. These chemicals help break down waste and reduce odours, making emptying your toilet easier. Be careful when disposing of black waste, you should always use designated disposal points and never litter.

2. Bedding and Mattress Topper

If you’re only heading out for a short trip, a sleeping bag might be enough. However, for more comfort, bring a proper duvet, pillows, and a mattress topper to improve your sleep quality. These items aren’t expensive but make a huge difference to your overall camping experience, especially on longer trips or if you’re prone to back pain.

3. Plates and Cutlery

Eating on the road doesn’t mean using disposable plastic plates! Real cutlery and crockery make the experience more homey and environmentally friendly. Bring one set per person (plate, bowl, cup, and cutlery) to save space while still having everything you need.

4. Fresh Water

Most motorhomes come with a built-in water tank that can be filled using a hose pipe, covering most of your needs. However, carrying extra water is always a good idea, especially if you’re camping far from a water source. Bring a clean jerry can, an Aqua Roll barrel, or even a watering can for emergencies, and consider bottled water for drinking, cooking, and brushing your teeth.

5. Food

Motorhomes have great cooking facilities and storage, so meal prep is easy if you plan ahead. Bring a mix of fresh, frozen, and non-perishable foods so you’re covered for different situations. Finally, always check your gas supply before setting off to avoid running out of fuel for cooking.

6. Wi-Fi Dongle

Even if you’re escaping into nature, a motorhome Wi-Fi dongle can be useful for navigation, finding camping spots, or checking the weather. If you want to stay connected, look for a dongle with a strong data plan or a mobile router that supports multiple devices. Of course, if you prefer a tech-free experience, switching off for a true wild camping for motorhomes adventure is always an option.

7. LED Lighting for Energy Efficiency

When wild camping, it’s important to conserve your battery power as much as possible. One of the simplest ways to do this is by switching your motorhome’s interior lights to LED bulbs. They’re energy-efficient, long-lasting, and reduce overall power consumption, helping you stay off-grid for longer.

Heavy Equipment for Your Motorhome Wild Camping Trip

Now you know what should be in your motorhome camping toolbox. However, you also need some heavy-weight stuff to ensure you can safely go off the grid and be truly self-sufficient. Here’s what you should take with you for your motorhome wild camping trip in the UK:

1. Solar Panels

Solar panels are one of the best ways to generate power while wild camping. Your leisure battery will recharge during daylight hours, giving you free, renewable energy for lights, appliances, and charging devices. If you need more power, you can install multiple panels to keep everything running smoothly.

2. Full Gas Bottles

Gas is essential for cooking, heating, and sometimes even running your fridge, so it’s important to bring a full bottle (or a spare, if possible). Running out of gas in the middle of a trip can leave you without a way to cook or stay warm, especially in colder months. Always check your gas levels before setting off to avoid unexpected shortages.

3. Cleaning Supplies

Keeping your motorhome clean and tidy is just as important as finding the perfect camping spot. Bring multi-purpose cleaning supplies to wipe down surfaces, wash dishes, and keep things fresh. Always carry extra bin liners and dispose of waste responsibly to follow the Leave No Trace principles we mentioned earlier.

4. Fridge

A fridge is a game-changer if you plan to be off-grid for more than a day or two. The best option for wild camping is a 3-way fridge, which can run on gas, 240V electricity, or the engine’s alternator while driving. This flexibility means you always have cold food and drinks, no matter where you park.

Be Cautious!

Without a doubt, wild camping in a motorhome is a wonderful experience, but you need to remember that you’re on your own, far away from civilisation. You may encounter fellow wild campers, but you also need to be careful wherever you go. Here are some general safety tips and rules you should keep in mind:

• Inspect Your Camping Spot: Always assess the area before settling in. If something feels off, trust your instincts and move on to a different spot.
• Be Cautious Near Cities: Some places, including the UK, have gangs that target motorhomes. Research safe overnight spots before parking, check online forums, and you can even visit a local tourist office or police station for advice.
• Keep Valuables Out of Sight: Avoid flaunting expensive items like cameras, electronics, or luxury accessories. What seems like an everyday item to you could be a tempting target for thieves in quieter areas.
• Respect “No Camping” Signs: If you see a “no camping” sign, don’t ignore it. These signs are often placed near national parks or private property for good reason, so you should move on and find a legal spot instead if you see one.

Before You Go – Safety Check-Up

A quick safety check before your trip can prevent accidents and breakdowns, whether you’re travelling in the UK or across Europe. Many issues can be avoided with a simple inspection, ensuring your motorhome, van, or campervan is road-ready. Follow these essential steps before setting off:

1. Inspect the Exterior: Walk around your vehicle and check for any visible damage. Ensure all gear, storage compartments, and equipment are locked, strapped, and fastened properly.
2. Check Tyre Pressure & Tread: Make sure your tyres are inflated to the correct pressure and have good tread depth. If the tread is worn, stick to paved roads and avoid muddy areas.
3. Check Fluid Levels: Top up oil, coolant, transmission fluid, and washer fluid to avoid issues on the road.
4. Test Doors & Windows: Ensure all latches and locks on doors, windows, and storage compartments are secure.
5. Check Lights & Signals: Test your brake lights, headlights, and indicators to make sure they are working properly.
6. Inspect Tow Bar & Safety Cables: A secure tow bar is essential, especially if you’re carrying bikes or towing a trailer. Brands like Witter offer reliable tow bars, bike racks, and caravan movers.
7. Secure Stairs, Jacks & Awnings: Make sure all movable parts are retracted and locked before departure.
8. Turn Off Propane & Appliances: Check that gas, propane, or fuel connections are disconnected and all appliances are switched off.
9. Double-Check Tyres & Brakes: Before setting off, do a final check of tyre pressure, tread depth, and brakes for maximum safety.

Safety Rules and Tips on the Road

By now, you know the best practices for wild camping and the essential safety checks to perform before setting off. But staying safe doesn’t stop there (how you drive and behave on the road matters too). Here are some key tips to ensure a smooth and safe journey:

Watch for Limited Clearance

Your motorhome is not a 4×4, so avoid deep ruts, mud, and rocky roads that could cause damage. Drive slowly over dips, potholes, and uneven terrain to reduce impact. If a road looks risky, find an alternative route instead of forcing your way through.

Take It Slow on Downhills

When driving downhill, loose gravel or sand can reduce traction, making it harder to brake safely. Your motorhome is heavy, so always control your speed early, since slowing down takes longer than in a car. A steady, controlled descent is safer than braking suddenly on a steep incline.

Approach Bumps and Speed Humps Carefully

Hitting a speed bump too fast can cause your motorhome to rock from side to side, shifting your belongings. Always approach bumps slowly and straight-on, ensuring both wheels go over at the same time. This prevents uneven weight distribution and reduces impact on your suspension.

Regain Traction if You Get Stuck

If your wheels start spinning in mud or a ditch, stop pressing the accelerator. Instead, use rubber mud mats to help gain traction. If you don’t have mats, dig small trenches behind the wheels and add sand, gravel, or rocks to create grip.

Scout Before Parking Overnight

Scouting for the perfect parking spot isn’t just practical, it can be one of the best parts of wild camping. If you’re in an unfamiliar area, take a short walk to scope out the terrain, check for turnouts, and find the best views. You never know what hidden gems you might stumble across…a quiet lakeside retreat, a stunning overlook, or even a perfect stargazing spot.

Final Thoughts

Wild camping in a motorhome is an unforgettable way to explore the UK, offering freedom, stunning landscapes, and the thrill of going off-grid. But a great trip starts with good preparation, so before you set off, make sure your motorhome is road-ready, packed with essentials, and legally parked. Keep these tips in mind, embrace the adventure, and enjoy every moment of the journey!