In case anyone wasn’t sure, things are pretty bad financially in the UK at the moment, though many other parts of the world are feeling a similar pinch. With all these financial troubles many people are thinking what to do for their holidays this year.
So what are the options? Well simple really; go abroad, stay in the UK, or don’t go anywhere - same as always.
Now going abroad is going to cost you a fair amount, sure there are real bargain out there, but many believe this is just out of their reach this year. So that leaves doing nothing (which doesn’t help if you really want that break away from home) or staying in the UK.
Of course holidaying in the UK can cost just as much as going overseas, depending what you choose to do and where you decide to go; there are cheaper alternatives…but what?
Well camping is something of a tradition in the UK, and something people seem to do less of nowadays, but with some of the scorching summers we’ve had over the past few years and the fact it’s a relatively cheap option maybe it’s time we tried it again?
Now firstly no it’s not free to go camping, there are the prerequisite essentials you are going to need, but the thing is once you have them, you don’t need to buy these things every time you go, once you have them (and if you look after them) then that’s it, your ready to roll whenever you want a break.
The thing with camping is you can go where you want when you want. Most camping sites and areas will allow overnight bookings as well as weekends and variable day stays. So you could spend a few weeks touring an area booking into various camp sites, or stay in one you like for a week or two, it’s your choice.
Another great benefit is that these days a lot of
camping equipment is very compact.
Large tents can fit into very small bags and many just “pop up” when you take them out into a fully assembled state.
Sleeping bags also fold into very small packs and you can buy airbeds and pumps that aren’t much bigger when folded away. If you keep things to the minimum you are going to need then there is no reason you couldn’t actually turn your camping holiday into a cycling holiday and bike it to your destination.
Cycling might not be a viable option though, especially if you have kids, but all of the benefits above save space in your car, meaning more room if you want to pack some folding chairs, a camping heater, cooler box or some other camping gear.
So what to do? Now this is the crux here. Coastal areas are less of an issue, as many of these will have activities to keep the kids entertained. If your going for somewhere like the peak districts or inland areas, your going to have to hope for something at the site your staying in (a swimming lake, children’s parks, activity areas) or your going to have to try and make the best of what you have. The good thing is there are normally numerous tracks and trails you could go walking or hiking on, or if you have some (or hire some) cycling. Places like the peak districts have hills and dales to explore and there are woods and trees to climb. Then there are the local town and villages that can be visited as well.
Now many of the things mentioned are free, they don’t cost anything but your time, so after the cost of your
camping equipment, and the pitching fees (assuming you can’t find somewhere to pitch up for free; but remember do not pitch illegally!) anything else you buy is an extra or nicety.
So what
camping gear is needed?
Well a
tent is an obvious necessity, camping without one is possible, but your relying on the weather staying fine, and regardless of how nice it is it can get cold at night and windy.
Sleeping bags are considered a must buy item, though you could get away with normal bedding, however sleeping bags fold away into much smaller bags then a duvet.
Airbeds can make things more comfortable, but aren’t an actual necessity, the ground your laying on, the thickness of the tent base sheet and your sleeping bag can make the difference here. A pump would help though most airbeds come with a pump, and you can get some nifty air pumps that inflate the bed for you (some need power such as a car lighter/battery; others have their own unique methods).
Camping stoves are only needed if you plan on cooking. If you aren’t (cereals for breakfast, sandwiches for lunch and dinner at a restaurant/fat food place/chip shop), then don’t waste your time, or money. However if you want to try your hand as an outdoor gourmet cook then pick one up; other alternatives to the small camping stove include burners and grills that are reminiscent of portable barbecues. If you do plan on cooking outdoors, you’ll need some pans to do it in, so consider that as well before you choose whether to try your hand or not.
Some cutlery and plates are going to be needed, though you can go for the real deal, or go with disposable paper and plastic plates, bowls and cutlery. Same can be said of cups and glasses.
A first aid kit is probably a must, though many people will have one already in their car, but if you don’t, best not to risk it.
Finally you have to consider where you’re going to sit. The cheap option is the floor, and there is no real reason not to (unless it’s damp and muddy) otherwise you might want a camp chair or 2 (or however many you need) and maybe a folding table. I’m all for the
camp chairs, but I’m happy to stick my food on my lap or on a tray.
Other very useful titbits include a Swiss army knife, torch, a cooler box and maybe some maps of the area.
There are a lot more things you can get if you want - barbecues, gas bottles, deck chairs, air dryers, water purification tablets and filters; the list goes on and on.
So to sum up, camping can be a unique (especially if you’ve never done it before) alternative way to spend some holiday time in the UK. If you keep it simple it can be very cost efficient, and it can be very relaxing, though depending what you choose to do, can provide plenty of exercise too; and who knows? If you find you enjoy it, there is nothing to stop you trying camping abroad one the financial situation settles.
In addition to unguided tours, many cyclists enjoy spending their holiday on a guided expedition. By utilizing one of the many touring companies throughout the UK, you can schedule a guided tour of destinations such as Radnor Ring in Wales. Such tours last anywhere from 2 to 14 days and can accommodate as many as 8 people. Your guided tour will take all of the guesswork out of the experience, and you can simply sit back and enjoy the ride. The final step in planning your holiday is arranging all of the equipment you will need for your trip.
