Our Guide To Camping Locations and Must-Haves

Our Guide To Camping Locations and Must-Haves

Summer's upon us and we're enjoying lighter nights and warmer days - even if the sun can't always be guaranteed. But those two reasons alone are enough to make us want to get out into the great outdoors and make the most of this time of year.

There's plenty of reasons to get outside, not least the health benefits of sunshine and fresh air. Scientists reckon we all get a boost from vitamin D, generated when the sun's rays hit our skin, and the health benefits from even a little gentle exercise are enormous. But above all: isn't it just great to unplug from the humdrum everyday and reconnect with your family, friends, and yourself? So forget jetting off to a far-flung destination. There's a much lower-stress way of doing it all…

Camp it!

Camping used to be something only the hardy did. Not anymore. Now, as the pressures of modern life increase, the appeal of getting away from it all and reconnecting to nature is greater than ever.

And when it comes to camping, how you do it is up to you. Do you fancy baked beans bubbling over a camp fire and potatoes in foil, or would you rather go for half-lobsters on a top-of-the-range barbecue? Solitary trips up into the hills, or family-friendly campsites with on-site adventure playgrounds?

Whatever level of luxury you go for, you're guaranteed great lungfuls of crystal-clear air, breathtaking views, and a deep reboot of mind, body and soul.

It's holidaying at its most simple, and you're in charge. Stay on site and catch up with your reading, or use the campsite simply as a base for exploring the surrounding area. Or mix it up and get the best of both worlds - it's your call.

A country of contrasts

Even if most of us get no further than a Welsh cake, a Devon cream tea, a bit of Scottish haggis or some Irish soda bread, history has been kind to UK holidaymakers and has gifted us four home nations, each with its own distinctive history, identity and regional food and drink.

At first, England might seem to have the least going for it in terms of camping. But there are vast areas of stunning countryside to be enjoyed - from Viking Northumbria to the craggy Peak District, the distinctively wild moors of the south west, and the austere beauty of the Fens. And that's just for starters. Drive only a few miles out of any of the major cities and you'll find a campsite - there are even a few in London!

Scotland is at its best in June – the midges aren't yet out in force and the evenings are gloriously long. The clean and friendly Caolasnacon site near Glencoe offers the sort of scenery people flock to Scotland to see, and is a centre for walking, cycling and water sports.

In Northern Ireland, Unesco-listed Giant's Causeway is a must-see, and just over an hour and a half away by car is the beautiful National Trust Crom campsite on the banks of Lough Erne.

Arguably saving the hippest till last - it's the festivals, as well as the beaches and mountains - Wales is a big favourite. Try Dale Hill Farm, deep in Pembrokeshire, West Wales. Surrounded by some of the best beaches in the land, it makes for some proper camping holidays that will create cherished memories.

The choice is plentiful, and potentially bewildering, so head over to our Staycation Map for some more inspiration.

And whether you're a first-time camper worried about which sleeping bag to go for, or a seasoned tent-pitcher who thinks nothing of setting up camp in the eye of a storm, we're here to help you every step of the way.

From power banks to make sure your phone stays charged even when you're miles from a plug, to gazebos to keep you dry when it rains and summer games for when it doesn't, we're here for all your camping needs.

Roof Boxes
How about the equivalent of an additional large boot space that allows you to pack more into your holiday by taking all you need - on the roof?! You can even get it fitted from £15 at your local Halfords.

Whatever you're after and wherever you're heading to, take a look at our camping range online or head into your local store to pick up those last minute essentials.