The end of the school holidays doesn’t have to mean an end to your adventures in the great outdoors. Autumn camping in the UK may not be the first thing to cross your mind when thinking of a holiday, but there are plenty of benefits to getting out and embracing this time of year:
- Campsites tend to be a little quieter, giving you the pick of the best spots.
- Getting active outdoors is incredibly rewarding, with spectacular scenery as the leaves turn golden, and stunning sunrises and sunsets decorating the sky.
- With the weather often still warm, walking or cycling to explore the countryside is comfortable without being loaded down with extra equipment.
- Fill your timeline with beautiful nature photography thanks to the incredible natural light and dramatic scenery.
8 tips for autumn camping in the UK
To get the most out of your camping trip, you do need to be prepared. These are our 8 top autumn camping tips for having an amazing time, whatever the weather!
1. Be prepared for the cold. The weather at this time of year is very changeable, so make sure you take plenty of layers, warm clothing and waterproofs so that you’re ready for whatever it throws at you!
2. Hats are important. As well as keeping your ears cosy, they help prevent heat loss through your head.
3. Think about night time too - blankets underneath your sleeping mats and sleeping bags provide extra insulation, and a duvet from home will keep away even the worst chills.
4. Similarly, be sure to bring a base sheet for underneath your tent to provide an extra layer of protection against the cold earth and any mud.
5. Bring binoculars to get the best look at the scenery and wildlife! Autumn in the UK offers some of the most picturesque landscapes, from misty mornings in the countryside to stunning sunsets over the rolling hills. Don’t forget your camera to capture the gorgeous scenery. Early mornings and evenings provide the best light for photography, so set aside time to enjoy the views.
6. Autumn is a key time for wildlife as animals prepare for winter, so you may encounter more animals looking for food. Keep food secure and store it in sealed containers. Be respectful of the wildlife around you – avoid disturbing them or feeding them.
7. Plan for the shorter days. With shorter daylight hours, it’s important to plan your days accordingly. Set up camp during daylight, and avoid being caught out in the dark by timing hikes and other outdoor adventures. Bring a decent map, and if you’re walking in unfamiliar areas, consider using a GPS or compass to stay on track.
8. Autumn in the UK is known for its frequent rain, so be prepared for wet conditions. Waterproof jackets, trousers, and shoes are essential, as are waterproof bags to protect all of your gear. Consider investing in a tent with a high water-resistant rating and a sturdy groundsheet to keep you dry. Don’t forget a reliable tarp so you can lounge outside your tent. Some of our hostels have drying rooms where you can dry out your damp belongings.
YHA offers some great campsites at some of our best locations across England and Wales. This means it's even easier for you to get out and about and explore the great outdoors. So whether you're looking to go back to basics and get away from it all or you want a beautiful seaside location, we have got something for you. As a camper at one of our sites, you’ll either have your own dedicated facilities or be able to make use of the hostel's. Whether that's cooking up a storm in a self-catering kitchen or just freshening up after your night under the stars, you'll feel every bit as welcome as our hostel guests.
If staying out under canvas is just too daunting, we still have other camping options available that are a little more comfortable. Camping pods come with heaters to keep away the chills and our glamping options are available until October.
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