Beginner’s Guide to Camping on a Budget UK

Beginner’s Guide to Camping on a Budget UK

Exploring the outdoors doesn’t have to break the bank. If you’re new to camping and looking for affordable ways to enjoy nature, this beginner’s guide to camping on a budget in the UK is the perfect place to start.
Camping can be one of the most rewarding and cost-effective ways to travel — whether you’re planning a weekend escape or your very first adventure.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to plan a low-cost camping trip, the essential gear you actually need, and smart ways to save money while still having an amazing experience outdoors.

Why Camping is Perfect for Budget Adventures

Compared to holidays that involve flights, hotels, and restaurant meals, camping is an incredibly low-cost way to travel and explore.
You can often find great campsites across the UK for less than £20 per night, especially if you book early or visit outside of peak summer weeks.

Even better, you don’t have to buy all your gear at once. Many beginners rent or borrow equipment for their first few trips, helping to spread out the cost.

Camping is the ultimate “pay as you go” adventure — and the memories you’ll create are priceless.

How to Plan a Cheap Camping Trip

Choose Affordable Campsites:
Many UK campsites offer excellent facilities at low prices. Look for simple sites without luxury extras like glamping pods or fancy lodges. National parks, farm campsites, and camping clubs often have great deals.

Book Early:
During summer, the best budget-friendly campsites get snapped up quickly. Booking early means lower prices and more options.

Stay Close to Home:
Reducing travel costs keeps your trip affordable. Look for hidden gem campsites within a 1–2 hour drive from where you live.

Share Costs:
Camping with friends or family lets you split costs like food, petrol, and site fees — making it even cheaper.

Essential Gear for Camping on a Budget

You don’t need to splash out on premium equipment for your first few camping trips. Here’s a basic list to get you started:

• Tent: Look for a simple, weatherproof tent (brands like Quechua and Vango offer great budget options).
• Sleeping Bag: A good three-season sleeping bag will cover most UK camping trips.
• Sleeping Mat: Essential for comfort and insulation from the ground.
• Cooking Basics: A simple gas stove, pot, and a few utensils are enough for cooking outdoors.
• Clothing Layers: Pack clothes you can layer — the UK weather can change fast.
• Lighting: A basic head torch or camping lantern will do the job.

Tip: Don’t feel pressured to buy high-end gear at the start. Test and upgrade over time as you learn what you really need.

Smart Ways to Save Even More

• Buy Second-Hand: Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, and charity shops often have excellent camping gear for cheap.
• Borrow from Friends: If you’re not sure about camping long-term, borrow a tent or stove for your first trip.
• Watch for Deals: Outdoor stores like Decathlon, GO Outdoors, and Aldi often have seasonal sales on camping essentials.

Saving money doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort — it just means being smart about where you spend.

Final Tips for First-Time Campers

• Test Your Gear at Home: Pitch your tent in your garden or living room before your trip to practice.
• Start Small: Choose a site close to home and plan just 1 or 2 nights for your first outing.
• Embrace the Adventure: Weather mishaps and small mistakes are part of the fun. Camping is all about the experience!

Conclusion

camping on a budget in the UK doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated.
With a little planning and smart choices, you can have incredible outdoor adventures without spending a fortune.
So grab your gear, pack your spirit of adventure, and start exploring the great outdoors — one budget-friendly trip at a time.

Learn more camping tips and gear ideas on our Home Page

You can also find helpful beginner advice for camping on a budget in the UK at the Camping and Caravanning Club

Alex
Founder of Savvy Camper