More than 20 hostels in our network will offer camping and glamping this spring and summer. Any YHA Camping & Cabins stay gives you the bonus of using the hostel facilities including showers, cafes, drying rooms and self-catering kitchens.
Alongside campsites for your own tent, we have a range of glamping options from bell tents and safari tents to camping pods and Landpods. Both Landpods and camping pods come with beds and bedding, and our premium bell tents even have bean bags and woodburners. But if you're going traditional and bringing your own tent, here's our short guide to what to pack.
Sleeping
Your tent is the most important part of your camping setup. When selecting a tent, it’s important to consider:
- Weather resistance: Look for tents that are waterproof- you are camping in the UK after all!
- Size: A two-person tent is fine for a solo trip or for couples, but larger groups should go for a bigger type. Always leave extra space for comfort and gear storage.
- Pitching: Make sure the tent is easy to set up, especially if you're new to camping. Look for ones with color-coded poles, simple designs or even a pop up.
- Sleeping gear: This includes a sleeping mat (inflatable ones are best) and a sleeping bag. If it's winter, buy a four-season bag. Otherwise we'd recommend a versatile three-season bag with a minimum temperature of around 0ºc. Sleeping mats also have a minimum temperature rating. Your comfort at night will depend on the sleeping gear you choose. In the UK, the nights can get chilly, even in summer, so don’t skimp on warmth.
- Pillow: a small inflatable or compressible pillow can make a huge difference in comfort. If you're hiking, then fill a stuff sack with clothes, but if you're in a car, a decent pillow can make a world of difference. You'll also need a backpack big enough to carry it all in.
Cooking
One of the advantages of camping at youth hostels is that you get full use of the self-catering kitchen. If a kitchen is unavailable, you need to think about cooking food. Making a meal plan is essential – choose easy-to-cook food, such as noodles, pasta or couscous.
As well as a stove and gas, you'll need a pan or two big enough for the group, and then plates, cutlery and cups for everyone. And never forget something to make coffee in.
Clothing
The weather in the UK can be very unpredictable, so layering is key. Here’s what you should pack:
- Base layers: Opt for moisture-wicking clothing synthetic fabrics to stay dry, especially if you're hiking.
- Mid layers: Fleece or light jackets will help you stay warm when the temperature drops.
- Outer layer: A waterproof, lightweight jacket is essential for handling rain or wind. Consider a windproof jacket too.
- Trousers and shorts: A pair of lightweight, quick-drying trousers and shorts are perfect for the warmer days.
- Socks and underwear: Take several pairs of thick socks and a spare set of underwear.
- Hat and gloves: Even in summer, it’s wise to bring a beanie or hat, and some lightweight gloves if you’re heading planning a hike.
Safety and personal items
Other essential items include a head torch with extra batteries, a first aid kit, sun protection and insect repellent, water bottles (and treatment if required), toiletries (including toilet rolls) and bags for rubbish. Finally, don't forget to bring something to do such as a pack of cards, games and a football. And remember, many of our hostels offer indoor and outdoor games to keep guests of all ages occupied.
Camping packing checklist
To make sure you are prepared for your night under the stars, here’s our list of essential items to pack for camping.
- Tent and all accessories (footprint groundsheet, porch)
- Tent pegs and spares
- Mallet
- Torches
- Sleeping bags
- Sleeping mats or camp beds
- Pillows
- Ear plugs
- Camping furniture (tables, chairs)
- Bin bags
- Water container
- Stove, fuel matches
- Pots and kettle
- Plates, bowls, cups, utensils and cutlery
- Bottle opener and corkscrew!
- Coolbox
- First aid kit, sun cream and anti-bacterial handwash
- Insect repellent
- Batteries
- Knife
- Toilet roll
Dog-friendly holidays in the UK with YHA
Got a furry friend you would like to holiday with as well? With cosy accommodation to cuddle up in and miles of walking trails to explore, taking your dog glamping is a real adventure.
Enjoying the great outdoors is always better when you've got your best friend by your side, and there are plenty of glamping options that both you and your dog will love. Here are our top picks of glamping locations in the UK that are dog friendly. Paw-fect!
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