Six tips on how to camp responsibly

We’re delighted to be working with Vango and our collaboration is centred around our shared passion for the outdoors and enjoying the simple pleasures of sleeping under the stars. 

Our National Trust Camping Collection by Vango offers sustainable camping equipment – through the use of recycled plastic bottles – for those wanting to be kinder on the planet. Through the sales of this collection, Vango will contribute a minimum of £20,000 to the National Trust to help look after the places we care for.

1. Be prepared

When going camping it's good to try and be as prepared as possible. Situations can change at a moment's notice so planning and preparing for all weathers and emergencies can help ensure the safety of yourself and others.

Before you head off, it's good to check you have everything you need, from your tent to chairs and cooking utensils. It's also good to check that everything works, nothing is broken and you have enough of everything, such as tent pegs.

When setting up, only camp on durable ground or in designated areas and make sure to check for rocks or sticks before pitching your tent.

2. Be considerate

Camping is a great way to get away from it all and many camp to enjoy the tranquillity of nature and their peaceful surroundings.

On your camping trip, say hello and respect your neighbours, but make sure to not be too noisy.

It's also nice to give fellow campers enough space to move around freely and have some privacy, so try not to make it feel like you're pitching up on top of someone else.

3. Be mindful

There's something exciting about sitting round a fire or cooking on a barbecue when you're camping. However, they can be dangerous and aren't allowed at certain sites, so make sure to follow the rules around fires and barbecues at the place you're staying.

If you are allowed, set up on flat ground to reduce the chance of it tilting over, never leave it unattended and ensure to extinguish all fires and burn all wood to ash.

You should also never burn anything you're not meant to like plastic items, aluminium foils or foil-lined items.

4. Think ahead

You may need to check any local or seasonal restrictions, or specific concerns of the area.

You could also think ahead about what meals you're going to make and what cutlery and utensils you're going to need. You could invest in reusable alternatives or bring some from home instead of using disposable ones.

5. Stay clean and tidy

It's important to take an empty bag to clear up any rubbish you have. If there are no facilities on site, make sure to take your waste home with you.

Wherever possible, split out your recyclables and general waste.

6. Leave no trace

Remember to take everything back home, leaving the site as you first found it for the next visitors to enjoy. 

We know mementos can be a nice reminder of our holidays. However, it's important to leave natural habitats as you found them. Some places you visit may also have historical structures or artefacts, so it's really important to leave those as is too.