Have you ever thought about wild camping? Have you ever dreamt of sleeping under the stars in a remote location but don’t know where to start? If the answer is yes, then continue reading this post!
If you are not familiar with the term, wild camping literally means camping in the wilderness – i.e. outside campsite or caravan facilities. I am no expert on the topic, I had to do massive research before going and put a lot of time and effort before feeling I was somehow ready to go. This is why I wanted to share my experience with fellow beginners and try to give you as much info as possible to help you plan your first wild camping trip!
Where can I wild camp?
Let’s start with the basics: you can’t wild camp everywhere. Even if you are in a field in the middle of nowhere, that field could always be someone else’s property. As such, do your research before setting up camp!
With regards to the UK, wild camping is not allowed anywhere in England. However, you can always ask permission from the landowner (if you know who that is!) – in this case, you are allowed to do it.
A different story for Scotland, the wild campers dream destination. In fact, you can wild camp everywhere in Scotland (except some areas near Loch Lomond – for more info click here).
What are the rules of wild camping?
As with every other thing, there are some rules every wild camper should stick to. Most important of all, the ‘leave-no-trace’ policy.
Here’s a summary:
- Take your rubbish away. Consider picking up other people’s rubbish if you see it.
- Try not to camp in the same spot for more than a couple of nights so that your human impact is reduced to a minimum.
- Prefer using a stove rather than lit an open fire. If you do prefer an open fire, make sure to clean that out the morning after.
To have a better idea of these rules, you can read the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
What should you expect?
The main reason why I decided to write this post is the fact that as a complete beginner, I had a very romantic idea of wild camping. As you might have experienced, usually the reality is way different from what you had pictured. As such, please go on a wild camping trip ONLY if you are really prepared for what is coming:
- It is not comfortable. You are sleeping in the wilderness. There is no source of light, no heating, no comfy bed.
- You won’t have a toilet. Be prepared to squat in the woods!
- You won’t have a bathroom either, so no warm showers in the evening.
- If you are camping in the UK, be prepared to spend time crouched in your tent when it is raining.
- Insects! There is no way to escape midges and flies and all sorts other than keeping your tent closed and bringing some insects repellent with you.
- Unless you opt to have dinner in a restaurant, your meals won’t be gourmet.
If this didn’t put you off, then I’m sure you will enjoy wild camping! If you are prepared for all this, then you will surely enjoy the peace, the connection with nature, drinking beers while cooking sausages on your open fire and so much more!
What do I need to pack for a wild camping trip?
What will determine whether your wild camping trip will be a success or a disaster, is your camping gear. It is essential you bring with you the correct gear, so do your research!
If you are planning to wild camp in Scotland, you can have a read at my camping gear essential list, where you can also find loads of cheaper options for beginners.
