Tent Rules Every Camper Should Know Before Pitching a Tent in the UK

If you’re planning a night under the stars, the first thing to check isn’t the weather – it’s the rules. The UK has a mix of strict regulations and friendly guidelines that keep campsites safe, clean, and fair for everyone. Knowing these tent rules before you set up saves you from fines, awkward confrontations, and ruined trips.

Public Parks and Private Land: Where Can You Camp?

Many travellers think any green space is free to camp in, but most public parks forbid overnight stays. Local councils usually list “no camping” signs, and ignoring them can lead to a £150 fine. If you see a park with a designated campsite area, that’s your green light. Otherwise, look for official sites, holiday parks, or approved wild‑camping spots.

Private land can be an option if you get permission from the owner. A quick text or a written agreement clarifies expectations – like whether you can use a fire pit or need to take all waste with you. Always respect the landowner’s rules; a friendly approach often earns you a perfect spot.

The 33‑38 Rule and Electrical Hook‑Ups

When you book a powered site, you’ll see numbers like “33 A” or “38 A”. Those figures tell you the maximum current the hook‑up can supply. Plugging a high‑draw appliance into a low‑amp site can trip the circuit and leave you in the dark. Before you arrive, check the wattage of your fridge, heater, or lights and match them to the site’s rating.

If the site offers only a 33 A supply, keep your total draw under about 7,500 watts (33 A × 230 V). For a 38 A site, you have a bit more leeway – up to roughly 8,700 watts. Use a power strip with a built‑in fuse to protect your gear and avoid overloading the campsite’s system.

Remember, the rule isn’t just about electricity; it’s about being a considerate neighbour. Over‑loading can cause outages for the whole site, and nobody likes a blackout when they’re trying to cook dinner.

Beyond the technical side, the 33‑38 rule reminds you to plan your energy use. Charge devices the night before, bring solar panels if you’re off‑grid, and use LED lights to keep power draw low.

Following these tent rules—respecting park signs, getting landowner permission, and matching your power needs to the site’s rating—makes your campout smoother and more enjoyable. You’ll avoid costly fines, keep the campsite running, and leave nature just as you found it.

So next time you pack your tent, check the local council’s website, ask the landowner, and verify the campsite’s amperage. A few minutes of research beats an entire night of trouble.