Camping Mistakes: What Not to Do
Everyone makes a slip‑up the first time they hit a campsite, but a few simple habits can turn a great holiday into a nightmare. Below you’ll find the most common errors and easy fixes, so you can focus on the open road instead of fixing problems.
Top 5 Rookie Errors
1. Forgetting the right plug. Arriving at a powered site and realizing you have the wrong adaptor wastes time and can leave you without electricity. Keep a small kit with the three most common UK campsite plugs (13 A, 15 A, and European 2‑pin) in your motorhome.
2. Overpacking the water tank. It sounds smart to fill every litre, but a full tank adds unnecessary weight and can affect fuel consumption. Fill only what you’ll use in the next 24‑48 hours, then top up as needed.
3. Ignoring site rules. Each campsite has its own set of rules – quiet hours, fire bans, and waste disposal guidelines. Skipping the welcome pamphlet can lead to fines or a forced move.
4. Parking on a slope without chocks. Many first‑timers think the brakes are enough. Use wheel chocks or a leveling block; it prevents the motorhome from rolling and protects the suspension.
5. Leaving valuables in plain sight. A bag of camping gear visible through the window is an invitation for thieves. Store everything in lockable cabinets or keep the blinds closed when you’re away.
Smart Ways to Fix Them
Now that you know what to watch out for, here’s how to keep the problems at bay.
Prep your plug kit. Before you leave Nottingham, double‑check the plug types at your planned stops. A quick glance at the campsite website or a phone call can save an hour of hunting for adapters.
Use a water‑use plan. Write down how many meals you’ll prepare, how many showers the crew needs, and calculate the needed litres. Refill at the next fuel station with a free tap—most UK sites provide fresh water.
Read the site guide. Most campsites hand out a sheet of rules at check‑in. Scan it for “no open fire” or “quiet after 10 pm”. Stick the sheet on the kitchen board so everyone sees it.
Level and secure. Bring a small level and a set of chocks. Leveling not only keeps the motorhome steady, it also protects your appliances and makes cooking easier.
Store smart. Invest in a lockable storage box that fits under the bed platform. Keep passports, cash, and electronics inside. When you’re out exploring Sherwood Forest, you’ll have peace of mind.
One more tip: always have a backup plan. If a site turns out to be full or the weather changes, know an alternative spot nearby. Having a second choice stops panic and saves fuel.
By avoiding these common mistakes, your Nottingham motorhome adventure will be smoother, cheaper, and a lot more fun. Pack smart, read the rules, and enjoy the freedom of the open road.
