Electric Hook‑Up Basics: What Plug Do You Need at a Campsite?

Pulling into a campsite and seeing a bright green socket can feel like a tiny victory, but only if you know which plug fits. The UK has a few standard hookup types, and mixing them up can leave you without power when you need it most. Let’s clear the confusion so you can charge your fridge, run the heater, and stay comfortable all night.

Common UK campsite hookup types

Most UK motorhome sites use one of three plugs:

• 13‑amp 3‑pin (BS 1363) – the regular UK household plug. It’s the most common and works with the standard motorhome cable that comes with most rentals.
• 13‑amp 2‑pin (Europlug) – looks like a thin two‑pin connector. Some newer sites offer this for newer European‑made caravans.
• 15‑amp 3‑pin (BS 546) – older sites may still have these big blue plugs. They’re compatible with older rigs but not with the newer 13‑amp cable.

If the site label shows "E‑plug" or "European", you’re looking at the 2‑pin version. A quick glance at the socket shape tells you everything you need.

How to pick the right adapter

When the plug on the site doesn’t match your motorhome cable, you’ll need an adapter. Here’s a quick checklist:

1. Identify the site plug. Take a photo if you’re unsure – a quick Google image search can confirm the type.
2. Match it to your motorhome’s inlet. Most UK rigs have a 13‑amp inlet, so a 2‑pin to 3‑pin adapter is the most common purchase.
3. Choose a high‑quality, weather‑proof adapter. Cheap plastic ones can melt or break in rain. Look for a solid metal body with a sealed cover.
4. Check the amp rating. Never use an adapter that lowers the rating below what your appliances need. If you run a heater drawing 12 A, stay with a 13‑amp rated adapter.

For most Nottinghamshire sites, a simple 2‑pin → 3‑pin adapter will solve the issue. Keep one in your motorhome kit – you’ll thank yourself when you’re on a long road trip and the campsite only offers a Europlug.

Remember our popular post "What Plug Do I Need for a Campsite? Your Electric Hookup Guide" for a deeper dive on each plug type and a printable checklist.

Beyond the plug, a few extra tips keep your power smooth:

• Turn off high‑draw appliances before plugging in. This prevents a surge that could trip the site’s breaker.
• Use a surge protector. A small, cheap unit protects your fridge, lights, and phone chargers from spikes.
• Check the socket ground. A simple multimeter test (or a cheap plug‑tester) confirms the earth connection – essential for safety.

And if the site has a shared power board, make sure you’re not overloading it. Split your load between the motorhome’s built‑in inverter and the site’s supply if possible.

By mastering these basics, you’ll never be left in the dark at a Nottinghamshire campsite. Plug in confidently, keep your devices charged, and enjoy the freedom of motorhome travel without the hassle of power problems.