Embarrassing Campsite Mishaps!
Whether you are a seasoned tourer or just hitting the road for the first time, we have all had those "rookie" moments that leave us a bit red-faced
. To help you keep your dignity (and your deposit) intact, here is a comprehensive guide to the 27 most common campsite blunders and how to avoid them.
I. Pre-Departure: The Final Checklist
Before you turn the key, ensure these critical items are checked to avoid mechanical damage or getting trapped.
Check the Site Gates: Always verify the campsite's gate operating hours
. Don't get caught behind locked gates at 6:00 AM when you have a ferry or Eurotunnel to catch . Disconnect the Hook-up: Driving off with the mains lead still attached can result in a "loud bang" and ripped-out sockets
. Retract Your Steadies: Driving off with corner steadies down can furrow the pitch or even push the steady through the van's floor
. Pro Tip: Leave the winding handle across the driver’s pedals as a physical reminder . Secure Rooflights and Windows: A rooflight left open can be torn off at motorway speeds, causing expensive damage and hazards for other drivers
. Lower the Aerials: Perform a final exterior walk-around to ensure the TV aerial or satellite dish is lowered and all laundry is removed from bike racks
. The Power Sequence: When unhooking, always remove the cable from the site bollard first
. This prevents trailing a live cable across potentially wet grass . Collect Your Ramps: It is easy to leave wheel levelling chocks behind on uneven pitches
.
II. Site Etiquette: Being a Good Neighbor
Campsite living is community living. A little consideration goes a long way.
Respect Private Space: Never walk across someone else’s pitch
. Think of a motorhomer’s pitch as their "castle" and maintain their privacy . Monitor Noise Levels: Fabric awnings are not soundproof
. Keep music and TV volumes low, especially during the evening and at night . Manage Barking: A noisy dog can be a major headache for others
. Never leave a pet in the van on a hot day or for long periods without water and toys . Sociability: Giving a quick "hello" to neighbors can lead to great local recommendations or even an invite to a barbecue
. Considerate Cooking: Some campers are sensitive to smells
. If you’re having a barbecue, use a designated spot or cook at a distance from others . Manage Your Guests: Avoid overfilling a four-berth van with extra festival friends
. You may regret the decision by 4:00 AM .
III. Maintenance & Utility Essentials
Preventing small errors can save you from big (and smelly) problems later.
Toilet Hygiene: Never ignore the red light on your toilet cassette
. Overfilling results in a "malodorant" mess that requires deep cleaning of every nook and cranny . Waste-Water Management: Only drain waste water where instructed by the site
. Driving with an open drain is frowned upon and ruins the reputation of motorhomers . Electrical Safety: Never leave your hook-up lead coiled up while plugged in
. Coiled cables generate heat and are a fire hazard . Awning Care: At the first sign of strong winds, take down or roll in your awning
. Dismissing wind warnings can lead to total awning destruction . Grass Protection: Don’t assume you can use a groundsheet
. Many sites ban them because they kill the grass . Always check with reception before pegging one down . Cleanliness: Small spaces get messy fast
. Keep a well-stocked cleaning cupboard to avoid being caught without supplies mid-tour . The Fridge Clear-Out: Always remove food at the end of a tour
. A forgotten wheel of cheese can create a stinky surprise a month later .
IV. Planning & Connectivity
A successful tour requires a bit of foresight and the right tools.
Navigating and Choosing Sites
| Tip | Description |
| Site Selection | Read reviews to ensure the site matches your needs (e.g., adults-only sites for peace and quiet) |
| Pitch Choice | Use online maps to request a pitch near washblocks to make emptying containers easier |
| Destination Variety | Don't just visit the same favorite spots; mix in new destinations to keep things fresh |
| Sat Nav Skepticism | Standard Sat Navs may lead you into lion enclosures or 6ft-high tunnels |
Staying Connected and Prepared
WiFi Codes: Ask for the WiFi code at reception upon arrival
. If you wait until the office closes, you might be left desperately banging on the door . Avoiding High Fees: Campsite WiFi can be expensive
. Consider hiring a dongle or planning your access before leaving home to avoid hefty charges . Packing for Reality: Pack for the weather you might encounter, not just the weather you want
. Always include 20% more warm clothing than you expect to need . Off-Season Security: If storing your van, use a high-quality wheel clamp for peace of mind and as a visual deterrent
.
