Cost to Camp: What You Need to Know Before You Pitch Your Tent

If you’re thinking about a weekend in the woods or a motorhome road trip, the first question is always money. How much will it really cost? The answer isn’t one‑size‑fits‑all, but you can break it down into a few simple categories and plan ahead.

Typical campsite fees in the UK

Most organised campsites charge a flat rate per night. Prices vary by location, facilities and season. In rural areas you’ll pay around £10‑£15 per night for a basic pitch with water and a toilet. Near popular tourist spots or national parks the fee jumps to £20‑£30, especially in summer. If you need electricity, many sites add £2‑£5 per night for a hook‑up.

Some sites also charge extra for things like waste disposal, showers or Wi‑Fi. It’s worth checking the site’s website before you book – they usually list every charge up front. Remember that you’ll also need to pay a refundable deposit for your pitch, usually £5‑£10.

Saving money on motorhome trips

Running a motorhome adds a few more line items. First, the hire price. A VW campervan in the UK can cost between £70‑£120 per day, depending on the model and season. Add mileage fees if you plan to drive a lot – many rentals include a free kilometre allowance, then charge £0.15‑£0.30 per extra mile.

Fuel is a big one. Motorhomes are heavy, so they sip about 12‑15 mpg. If you’re covering 300 miles, expect roughly £50‑£70 in petrol at current prices. To cut this cost, try to plan a circular route that minimizes back‑tracking.

Don’t forget campsite fees for the motorhome. Most pitches charge the same as for a tent, but some premium sites add a “motorhome surcharge” of £5‑£10 per night. Look for free‑stay spots – many wild‑camping areas let you park overnight without paying, as long as you follow the local rules.

Other expenses include insurance (£10‑£20 per day for short rentals) and optional extras like a portable power station (£30‑£50 one‑off). If you already own a motorhome, your ongoing costs are insurance, road tax, maintenance and parking permits. Budget around £100‑£150 a month for these basics.

Food can eat up your budget fast. Cooking in a motorhome saves on restaurant bills. A grocery run for two people can be £30‑£40 per week. Pack non‑perishables, a few fresh items and you’ll stay under £10 a day for meals.

Finally, think about waste disposal. Most motorhome sites include empty‑dump fees in the nightly rate, but if you’re wild‑camping you’ll need to find a nearby dump point, which can cost £5‑£10 per use.

To keep your total cost low, mix paid sites with free wild‑camp spots, cook your own meals, and plan routes that avoid long detours. With a bit of forethought, you can enjoy a full‑featured camping experience for under £50 a night, even with a motorhome.

So, what’s your budget? Write down the numbers you expect for each category, compare a few campsite options, and you’ll have a clear picture before you hit the road. Happy camping!