Camp Regulations: What Every UK Camper Needs to Know

If you’re planning a night under the stars or a road trip in a motorhome, the first thing to check is the rules. Ignoring camp regulations can lead to fines, a ruined holiday, or even getting banned from your favourite spot. Below we break down the most common regulations you’ll face across the UK and give you quick ways to stay on the right side of the law.

Site‑Specific Rules – From Hook‑Ups to the 33/38 Rule

Every campsite posts its own set of rules, and two of the most talked‑about items are the electric hookup standards and the mysterious “33/38 rule”. The hook‑up guide tells you which plug you need – usually a 13‑amp IEC connector – and whether you need an adapter. Grab a spare adapter before you leave the house; it saves you a scramble at the site.

The 33/38 rule is a simple math check that tells you if a pitch can handle your motorhome’s electricity draw. If your motorhome uses 33 amps but the site only offers 38 amps total, you’re good. If the numbers don’t line up, you risk tripping the circuit and getting a fine. A quick phone call to the site manager can clear it up in seconds.

Wild Camping Laws – Where You Can Pitch and What to Watch Out For

Wild camping in the UK isn’t a free‑for‑all. Scotland allows it almost everywhere, provided you follow the “Leave No Trace” code. England, Wales, and Northern Ireland have stricter rules – you usually need landowner permission or must stick to designated areas like some forest sites.

Posts like “Can You Camp in the Woods in the UK?” explain that you can legally camp on public land in some national parks if you’re away from buildings and respect the environment. When in doubt, look for signs or ask a local ranger. A night in a quiet woodland is brilliant, but only if you’re not breaking the law.

Another hot topic is “Rip camping”, a form of ultra‑wild camping that avoids any official sites. The same guidelines apply: stay hidden, leave no trace, and be prepared for the occasional ranger check.

Motorhome Specific Regulations – Driving, Seating, and Toilets

Driving a motorhome comes with its own set of rules. You must wear a seatbelt at all times, and children need appropriate restraints. The post “Is It Legal to Move Around While Driving a Motorhome?” makes it clear that walking inside the vehicle while it’s moving is illegal and can lead to fines.

Using the motorhome toilet on the road is another gray area. In most of the UK it’s allowed as long as the waste is stored in a sealed tank and emptied at a proper dump point. Don’t try to empty it in the countryside – that’s a clean‑up nightmare and a fine waiting to happen.

Special Situations – Vaping, Pets, and Fire Safety

Vaping at some gorges and campsites is banned because of fire risk. Check the site’s policy – most will let you vape in designated parking areas but not on the pitch itself. If you’re traveling with pets, many sites require them to be leashed and under control at all times.

Fire rules are strict everywhere. Only use provided fire pits, keep a bucket of water nearby, and always fully extinguish the fire before you leave. A stray ember can start a costly blaze and end your trip early.

Following these regulations isn’t just about avoiding penalties; it makes every campsite a better place for the next camper. Keep a copy of the most important rules in your travel binder or phone, and you’ll spend more time enjoying the road and less time worrying about fines.

Ready to hit the road? Pack your plug adapter, check the 33/38 numbers, respect wild‑camping limits, and drive safely. With these basics covered, you’ll have a smooth, legal, and unforgettable motorhome adventure across Nottinghamshire and the rest of the UK.