Legal Advice for Motorhome and Camping in the UK

If you love hitting the road in a motorhome or setting up a tent in the countryside, you need to know the rules that keep you safe and fine‑free. This guide pulls together the most common legal questions we see on our site and gives you straight‑forward answers you can use today.

Driving and Sitting Rules You Must Follow

First thing’s first: you and every passenger must wear a seatbelt while the vehicle is moving. The law covers the driver’s seat, the front passenger seat and any fixed seats in the rear. If you’re travelling with kids, the child must be in an approved seat that matches their weight and height. Forgetting a belt can lead to a £100 fine and points on your licence.

People often wonder where they can actually sit while the motorhome is in motion. The short answer: only in seats that have a proper seatbelt. The sofa or lounge area isn’t a legal seat, even if it looks comfy. If you need to move around, stop the vehicle first. Pull over safely, turn the engine off, and then you can walk to the kitchen or bathroom.

Using the Toilet and Other Facilities on the Move

Can you use the motorhome toilet while driving? Technically, the law doesn’t ban it, but it’s risky. A moving vehicle can cause spills, and a sudden stop could lead to an accident. Most insurers recommend you only use the toilet when the vehicle is stationary. If you must go on a long stretch, plan a quick stop at a service area or a safe lay‑by.

Disposing of waste is also regulated. You must empty the waste tank at a proper disposal point – usually a campsite or a dedicated dump station. Dumping on public roads or in the wild can result in a hefty fine and damage the environment.

Wild Camping, Public Parks and the 33/38 Rule

Wild camping in UK woods is a gray area. In England and Wales, you can camp on private land with permission, but on open countryside you need to follow the “no camping” signs. Scotland is more relaxed – you can camp almost anywhere as long as you follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

Many campsites show a “33/38 rule” on their booking pages. This means a 33 A plug is provided, and you must bring a 38 A adaptor if you need more power. Knowing this before you arrive saves you the scramble for the right plug.

If you want to pitch a tent in a public park, check local bylaws first. Some councils allow a night’s stay with a permit, while others ban it completely. Ignoring the rules can lead to a fine of up to £200 and a swift eviction.

Practical Tips to Stay on the Right Side of the Law

Carry a copy of your vehicle’s MOT and insurance documents – police can ask for them at any time. Keep a small “legal kit” with a seatbelt reminder sticker, a waste‑tank discharge receipt, and a list of nearby dump stations.

When you arrive at a campsite, ask the staff about any specific local restrictions. Even if the national law permits something, the site may have its own rules about fire pits, generator use, or quiet hours.

Finally, respect the environment. Leave no trace, stick to marked routes, and always pack out what you bring in. Following these simple habits not only protects nature but also prevents you from getting a complaint or fine.

With these basics covered, you can focus on the fun part – enjoying the freedom of the open road and the beauty of the British outdoors. Safe travels!