By Alex Carrington, Travel Editor at 247 Packing List · Last updated: ·

⛺

Camping Packing List

UK camping demands preparation — British weather can turn on a sixpence. This list covers everything you need for a comfortable night under canvas, whether it's a weekend in the Peak District or a week on the North Yorkshire coast.

AWIN · Traverseon

Ultralight tent & SUV camping gear

A 1.58kg tunnel tent that packs to 35×15cm, plus a modular SUV sleeping platform that fits 90% of common cars — built for weekend trips, not backcountry expeditions.

See Traverseon gear ›

As an Amazon Associate, CJ Affiliate publisher and AWIN publisher, we earn from qualifying purchases. Links below are affiliate links. Full disclosure.

🛒 Top picks for this trip

✅ Essentials Checklist

👕 Clothing Checklist

⭐ Nice to Have

Frequently Asked Questions

What sleeping bag rating do I need for UK camping in summer?

A 3-season sleeping bag rated to around 0°C is ideal for UK summer camping. Even in July, temperatures can drop to single figures overnight in the Lake District or Scotland. A 2-season bag works for milder southern sites in June–August, but a 3-season gives you flexibility.

Do I need a separate groundsheet for camping in the UK?

Yes, strongly recommended. UK campsite ground is often damp, and a footprint or groundsheet protects the tent floor from moisture and wear. Many tents come without one — check before you buy.

Are campfires allowed on UK campsites?

It depends entirely on the campsite. Many sites prohibit open fires but allow raised fire pits or BBQs. Always check the site's rules before packing firewood or a fire pit. In Scotland, wild camping and campfires are generally permitted under the Land Reform Act, with care.

Alex Carrington is the travel editor at 247 Packing List, building destination and trip-type packing guides from flight-delay experience, family trips and a lot of over-packed suitcases. Every list on this site is cross-checked against the destination's actual climate and airline baggage rules before publishing.