Wild Camping

What is Wild Camping?

Wild Camping is the act of pitching a tent, bivvy or other shelter out in the wilderness typically overnight or for a short period of time. In the UK Wild Camping is technically illegal with the exception of Scotland.

Is Wild Camping Allowed?

Wild Camping is allowed in Scotland under the Land Reform Act of 2003, however, due to the Vagrancy Act of 1824 (an old, outdated law initially used to prevent vagrants from sleeping rough), it is not allowed in England, Wales or Northern Ireland, with the exception of Dartmoor National Park & some places in Lake District

Rules of Wild Camping

There are a few rules to wild camping that you need to adhere to. Generally you want to do the following:

• Check local land laws before you set out and check if you need a permit, for example in Loch Lomond.
• If you’re using a campervan or you’re motorcycle camping make sure to not block any paths / roads and desist from damaging the verge.
• Make sure if you’re wild camping or stealth camping to pitch your tent late in the day, and leave early in the morning, and avoid lighting fires which will draw unwanted attention.
• Clean up after yourself, and leave no trace.

Is Wild Camping Dangerous?

Wild Camping, as in any type of hiking or camping in the wilderness can essentially be dangerous. Whether you underestimate the weather, or go unprepared, it is best for any outdoors activity to do your due diligence, let people know where you are going and ideally go with someone else.

In terms of pure Wild Camping here in the UK, the problem is that as mentioned wild camping is illegal, and if you’re wild camping on private land / property, it could be dangerous in the sense you do not know the landowner or especially if you camp near farmland, you could be camping unaware of chemicals used by farmers or heavy machinery coming your way.

Alot of this comes down to basic common sense, and in theory wild camping should be no more dangerous than regular camping. Be smart, be safe and have fun.

Best Tents for Wild Camping

There are a few wild camping tents that we would recommend, based on our own testing & feedback from our own customers, of which many like to wild camp, hike & motorcycle wild camp.

MSR Hubba NX Tent

This is a camping favourite for many people who love the great outdoors. It works well for a few reasons. It’s lightweight at only 1.56kg, and its pole geometry means there is plenty of space, with  29 sq. feet of floor area.

Coleman Kobuk Valley 2 Tent

This Tent by Coleman is a beast. It comes with Coleman’s patented Blackout technology, and is 100% Waterproof with a 4,500HH rating, meaning you are fully protected from the elements in this camping tent.

For sizing guides, check our our recent article: What size Rucksack for wild camping

Best Rucksack for Wild Camping

The Camping Backpack along with the tent and sleeping bag is absolutely essential for any aspiring wild camper out there. Having a rucksack with ample compartments and storage is crucial for making sure your trip isn’t a disaster.

Osprey Europe Men’s Atmos Ag 65

The Osprey Men’s Atmos Ag 65 is one of the wild camping community’s favourite backpacks. The reason is because it has a whole heap of features, including detachable rain-cover, trekking pole attachments, mesh panels galore and only 2kg in weight!

Osprey Aether AG 70 Backpack

The Osprey Aether Backpack is 70L, more than enough for any camping trip, and comes with a similar set of attachments at the Osprey Atmos. It’s a true performer in every aspect, and if you’re looking for a gift for a loved one who likes Hiking or Camping, this is it.