The Ultimate Guide to Off-Grid Camping in the UK

Off-grid camping has become popular in recent years as urban life has accelerated. Its appeal is that it promises tranquillity, solitude, and an unfettered experience with the natural world. Off-grid caravanning is just camping without a power hookup, which is one "essential" that keeps us at official sites, usually in populated areas.

Most of the time, the small spots with off-grid camping don't have amenities like bathrooms, showers, shops, or coffee shops. You should be able to take care of yourself, using the bathroom and kitchen in your caravan and stocking up on enough food to avoid going to the store often, which will likely be a long way away.

We will explore what you need to know about off-grid camping, how to prepare, and where to find off-grid camping sites. Besides, we highly recommend Jackery Solar Generator, the portable power supply, to charge some essential electronics and appliances in case of emergencies or connection with others.

Understand Off-Grid Camping 

Off-grid camping lets you fully immerse yourself in the natural environment and establish a deeper connection with nature. Compared with camping in campgrounds with facilities and designated spaces, off-grid camping promotes a more self-sufficient and adventurous experience.

What Is Off-Grid Camping?

Off-grid camping emphasises returning to the original natural environment away from the city's power and network coverage. To spend a period isolated from the world, people must rely on basic outdoor survival skills, such as setting up tents, making fires, and cooking. In short, off-grid camping encourages minimalism and a deep appreciation of the natural world.

What Benefits Can Off-Grid Camping Bring?

Why bother camping if you don't have the comforts and conveniences you are used to? Here is an analysis of the benefits of off-grid camping:

• Reduce stress and relax

• Enjoy fresh air and sunshine

• Improve physical fitness and physical health

• Develop new skills and increase independence

Types of Off-Grid Camping

There are many options for off-grid camping, and you can choose a variety of experiences based on your personal preferences. According to the camping environment and conditions, off-grid camping can be divided into four types: boondocking, primitive camping, dry camping, and wet camping.

Boondocking: Boondocking is the most common off-grid camping method. It involves camping on public land without access to public facilities, usually in natural environments such as mountains, grasslands, or deserts. However, this method requires extensive equipment and skills, and first-timers are advised to conduct it under the guidance of experienced friends.

Primitive Camping: Primitive camping is more challenging than boondocking and involves a nearly primitive state of life. It usually involves camping in a designated area without basic infrastructure such as water and electricity. Therefore, campers must bring their essential equipment and have specific survival skills, such as making fires, finding food and water sources, etc.

Dry Camping: Dry camping usually involves camping without water, electricity, or sewer connections and relying on personal resources. The biggest challenges of this method are the lack of water sources and extreme temperature changes, so campers must carry enough water.

Wet Camping: Wet camping is near water sources such as lakes, rivers, or streams. Although these places have sufficient water resources, they may still need to be purified before use. In addition, when wet camping, special attention should be paid to protecting the ecological environment, avoiding damaging vegetation, and disturbing wildlife.

How to Plan a Perfect Off-grid Camping Trip? 

You must plan adequately before embarking on an off-grid camping trip. Here are some tips on planning a perfect trip, including time selection, an equipment list, and activities.

Tip 1: Time Selection

The best season for camping in the UK is summer (June to August) when the weather is warm and sunny and suitable for outdoor activities. Most people try to avoid camping in winter because the weather is cold and rainy, which may cause discomfort and safety issues. In addition, try to avoid peak weekends and holidays to enjoy a more peaceful camping environment.

Tip 2: Off-Grid Camping Equipment

A successful off-grid camping trip requires essential equipment, including a reliable solar power system (such as Jackery Solar Generator), a water purification system, a comfortable sleeping bag, cooking equipment and outdoor shower facilities to ensure a comfortable and safe off-grid camping experience.

The following is a carefully prepared list of perfect off-grid camping equipment to ensure you enjoy a comfortable and memorable time off-grid.

This list is for reference only. Please add or subtract items and equipment according to your needs and situation.

Tip 3: Activities Arrangement

Reasonable activity arrangements also help campers use their time and enjoy every moment of off-grid life. For example, during the day, you can hike and explore the natural scenery; at night, you can sit around the fire and watch the stars.  

In addition, activity arrangements can also take into account safety factors, such as avoiding dangerous areas and bad weather. Here are some activities you can try when camping off the grid:

• Hiking

• Barbecue and picnic

• Stargazing

• Photography and nature recording

• Water activities: kayaking, rowing or swimming (if there is a lake or river)

In short, you can plan a perfect off-grid camping trip through reasonable time selection, rich activity arrangements and a comprehensive equipment list and have a pleasant and unforgettable time like in the UK.

Top 5 Off-Grid Camping Sites in the UK

Choosing the ideal off-grid camping location is essential to optimising your overall experience. The UK has plenty of national forests and public lands to explore, but how do you find the best off-grid camping sites? Here are some tips to help you make your choice.

How to Choose the Proper Off-Grid Camping Sites?

Here are a few things to consider when choosing an off-grid camping site:

Consider Proximity to Resources: While off-grid camping means no water or electricity hookups, it is still ideal to be close to a freshwater source and receive plenty of sunlight (for solar panels).

Check the Latest Reviews: Search off-grid camping forums and read reviews of different off-grid camping areas to ensure the wild camping site you choose is suitable, safe and not overdeveloped.

Get Permission (If Necessary): Checking specific restrictions or designated camping areas in advance can prevent fines or other legal consequences, especially in Pembrokeshire. So, always ask the landowner for permission (if necessary) before deciding on a location for off-grid camping.

Top 5 Off-Grid Camping Spots in the UK

Here are five of the best off-grid camping spots where you can enjoy peace without the distractions of modern amenities.

1. Cleadale Campsite (Eigg Organics)

Address: Eigg Organics, Croft 13, Cleadale, Isle of Eigg, PH42 4RL, United Kingdom

Website: Cleadale Campsite 

Contact: 07482 622122

Facilities: Toilets, showers

Cleadale Campsite is located on a small farm and offers a choice of pitches and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, Lamu Island, and the Outer Hebrides. A beautiful sandy beach (Singing Sands) is nearby, with natural arches, caves, and waterfalls to explore. Cars are not allowed on the island, so be prepared to walk 3.7 miles from the ferry terminal to the campsite (which takes about an hour).

2. Vallis Veg

Address: Vallis Veg, Egford, Frome BA11 3JQ, United Kingdom

Website: Vallis Veg 

Contact: +44 7870 704299

Facilities: Washing-up area, Barbecues allowed, campfires allowed, bar nearby, dog walk nearby, nearby farmers' market, public transport nearby, shop nearby

Vallis Veg is located on a vegetable farm one mile west of Frome. At Vallis Veg, there are views across the countryside, looking out to the Mendips Mountains, while at other points, it is surrounded by trees. In addition, the rich vegetation on the campsite attracts a variety of wildlife, including vultures, butterflies, moths and even badgers.

3. Fire & Stars

Address: Nethercote Wood, Snarestone Rd, Newton Burgoland, Coalville LE67 2SN

Website: Fire & Stars

Contact: +44 7709 188827

Facilities: Campfires allowed, toilet available, pets allowed, showers available, bins available, recycling bin, trash bin, picnic table present, playground available

This 19-hectare (47-acre) forest is part of the National Forest and has continuously attracted camping enthusiasts. Here, you can pitch a tent or hang a hammock for an off-grid camping experience. In addition, walking trails are distributed along the surrounding area of ​​Fire & Stars, including Ivanhoe Road and National Forest Road, and it is five miles from the English Heritage-owned Ashby de la Zouch Castle.

4. Beech Estate

Address: B2096 Kane Hythe Road, Battle TN33 9QU, United Kingdom

Website: Beech Estate 

Contact: +44 1273 980218

Facilities: Campfires welcome, seven (hot) bucket showers, four flushing toilets, five compost loos, woodland setting, multiple fresh water points, recycling onsite, nearby pubs

With 240 hectares of land at your disposal, finding a quiet spot at the Beech Estate is easy. It's close to the historic town of Battle and within easy reach of London, Hastings and the south coast. Some private camping sites are on top of hills overlooking the Bracken Valley. In addition, the woodlands offer endless walking trails and are perfect for mountain biking.

5. Cilrath Wood

Address: Cilrath Fach Farm, Narberth SA67 7EY, United Kingdom

Website: Cilrath Wood 

Contact: +44 7967 115528

Facilities: Composting toilet, shower available, washing-up area, barbecue provided, campfires allowed, charging facilities, communal freezer, communal fridge, recycling available

Even though it is surrounded by woodland, Cilrath Wood is easily accessible on foot along the manicured paths and tracks. At Cilrath Wood, you can choose to camp off the grid in the woodland. In the woods of Cilrath Wood, a stream flows into a pond, and an old quarry forms a quiet valley. In addition, Cilrath Wood is only a 20-minute drive to the beaches of Saundersfoot and Amroth.

Jackery Solar Generators for Off-Grid Camping

Although off-grid camping is about giving convenience to modern society, having electricity can make your off-grid camping safer and happier. You can charge your portable grill and communication devices or start your car. A portable generator, especially a solar generator, can be a lifesaver outdoors.

A solar generator is essential for off-grid camping as it offers a dependable, clean, and silent power source independent of external electricity grids or disruptive, polluting gas-powered generators. This enables campers to operate vital electronics such as lights, phones, small appliances, and medical devices in remote areas lacking conventional power access.  

We recommend Jackery Solar Generators to charge your off-grid camping appliances. Jackery offers portable power solutions ranging from 99W to 12 kWh, capable of powering up to 99% of appliances, including electric ovens, portable heaters, camping lights, etc.      

Also, the Jackery Portable Power Stations are compact and easy to carry, so you can put them in your vehicle. Compared to gas or other traditional generators, they are safer to use, and you can even use them while sleeping.

Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2

The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 will take your off-grid camping to a new level. It combines Explorer 1000 v2 with SolarSaga 100W or 200W solar panel, which quickly charges camping essentials like lights, coolers, and portable stoves. You can also keep your devices charged to capture every unforgettable moment. This way, you can enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing modern comfort.

With 1007Wh capacity, The Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station has an impressive 1500W output, 50% more than earlier models. It can easily power high-demand items like refrigerators, kettles, and portable air conditioners. With its USB-A/C ports and up to 100W dual PD charging, it can charge two devices (like a phone and a laptop) at the same time, making it the perfect power accessory for any situation.

The Explorer 1000 v2 is certified to IEC 60068 standards and has a high-impact, fire-resistant case that meets and exceeds strict fire-retardant requirements. This ensures that it lasts longer and is safer for worry-free outdoor activities. Stay in charge with our smart app, which lets you easily track and control how much energy you use right from your phone. This system makes energy control easy and quick because it is intuitive and straightforward.

Achieve reduced weight and enhanced performance with a cutting-edge solar system. The 100W bifacial high-efficiency solar panel, featuring a conversion rate of up to 25%, integrates advanced IBC technology with a sleek black design, providing enhanced power generation without additional weight.

(*The working hours are only for reference; the actual working hours depend on your usage.)

Review from Our User:

I purchased this after having trouble with petrol generators that were hard to start and unreliable in the field for my horses. I also needed a backup for my touring caravan. I've only used it a few times so far, but I'm happy with its ease, and I got it at a great pre-sale price.

Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus

Compared to Solar Generator 1000 v2, the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus is more powerful and has a higher expandable capacity from 1264Wh to 5 kWh. Its durable LiFePO4 battery and a 2000W full-power pure sine wave inverter supply sufficient energy for practically all essential camping devices. Notably, its capacity may be augmented to 5kWh by including up to three more battery packs.

The MPPT technology ensures 99% solar charging efficiency. A wall charge from 0% to 100% of the battery requires 100 minutes, whereas solar charging with four SolarSaga 200W solar panels necessitates 2 hours. With car charging capabilities, concerns over power disruptions will be alleviated.

In about 60 seconds, one may seamlessly connect solar panels to the power station, a procedure significantly more straightforward and user-friendly than traditional generators. Furthermore, it features a pass-through charging capability, allowing for device use while concurrently recharging via solar energy.

In about 60 seconds, one can seamlessly connect solar panels to the power station, a procedure significantly more straightforward and user-friendly than traditional generators. Furthermore, it features a pass-through charging capability, allowing device use while concurrently recharging via solar energy.

(*The working hours are only for reference; the actual working hours depend on your usage.)

Review from Our User:

I purchased this product and an extra battery pack a few weeks back and am pleased. The quality of the materials and finish is outstanding. I used it in my motorhome while in the lakes, powering my air fryer and other small appliances, and it handled everything perfectly. It even powered the entire van to recharge the leisure battery for an hour.

Tips for Successful Off-Grid Camping

Here are five tips for a comfortable and safe off-grid camping experience in the UK's natural environment.

Tip 1: Get familiar with the rules of the campsite.

Usually, each campsite, park or forest has its own rules about stay time, campfires, etc. Therefore, please understand and familiarise yourself with the specific regulations of the camping site before arriving at the campsite. For example, some campsites prohibit open fires, and some have quiet hours.

Tip 2: Minimise your environmental impact (leave no trace).

When you go off-grid camping, you must "leave no trace". Simply put, you can't leave any garbage, keep the campsite clean, and reduce environmental and wildlife impacts.

Tip 3: Start a fire safely.

Safely starting a fire requires small sticks, large logs, dry leaves or fire starter paper. If you can start a fire, choose a suitable campfire location and ensure it is at least 15 feet away from your tent and other flammable items. In addition, remember to completely extinguish the fire before leaving.

Tip 4: Purify water.

When camping off-grid, ensure safe drinking water by eliminating harmful pathogens and contaminants through filtration (e.g., a portable water filter), boiling, or chemical treatment (e.g., chlorine tablets, iodine tablets).

Tip 5: Ensure personal safety.

First, tell your family or friends where you are camping and when you expect to return before you leave so that you can get help in case of an emergency. Second, find out the nearest medical facilities and where to get emergency medical assistance. Finally, download offline maps and navigation software first, and make sure your phone is fully charged. If the signal is poor, you can use a satellite phone or emergency locator beacon.

How to Handle Emergencies While Off-grid Camping?

Here are some common emergencies you may encounter when camping off the grid in the UK and how to deal with them.

Natural Disaster Emergencies

Here are some natural disaster emergencies you may encounter when camping off the grid and how to deal with them:

How do you deal with sudden lousy weather?

If you encounter sudden storms and thunderstorms while camping off the grid, immediately find a sturdy shelter such as a cave or dense woods. Avoid staying in open areas and high places to prevent lightning strikes. If you are in a tent, make sure the tent is well grounded and stay away from metal objects.

How to deal with floods?

If you encounter floods while camping off the grid, quickly move to high ground and avoid wading. If you are trapped, wait for rescue and use communication tools such as mobile phones to send distress signals.

Accidental Emergencies

The following are the accidental emergencies that you may encounter when camping off the grid and how to deal with them:

How do you deal with getting lost?

If you get lost while camping off the grid, stay calm and try to return to the path you are familiar with. Use a map, compass, and GPS device to determine your direction. If you cannot find your way home, stay where you are and wait for rescue to avoid continuing to walk and increasing the risk of getting lost.

How do you deal with getting injured?

If you are injured while camping off the grid, please perform preliminary treatment according to the injury, such as stopping bleeding, bandaging, applying a cold compress, etc. For serious injuries (such as head injuries, fractures, etc.), call 999 immediately for medical assistance.

How to deal with a fire?

If you encounter a fire while camping off the grid, quickly cover it with wet cloth, soil, etc., and call 999 immediately. If the fire cannot be controlled, evacuate the scene quickly to ensure safety.

In short, although you may encounter some emergencies when camping off the grid in the UK, as long as you are fully prepared and master the correct handling methods, you can ensure your safety and get through the difficulties smoothly.

Off-Grid Camping FAQs

The following are the frequently asked questions about off grid camping in the UK:

1. Where are the popular off-grid camping sites in the UK?

Some of the UK's most popular off-grid camping sites are in the Scottish Highlands, the Welsh Coastal Path, and the Lake District National Park. However, there are many smaller, lesser-known sites throughout the UK.

2. Is off-grid camping legal in the UK?

Off-grid camping is legal in the UK, but you must abide by the rules and regulations set by the landowner or local government. For example, some areas may restrict off-grid camping or require a camping permit, so it is best to research beforehand.

3. What are the essentials to bring with you for off-grid camping in the UK?

When going off-grid camping in the UK, bring essentials such as a tent, cooking utensils, and a first aid kit. Consider bringing navigation tools and a portable power source. In short, bring enough equipment to meet your actual situation and personal needs.

4. How can you minimise your environmental impact when camping off-grid?

To minimise your impact on the environment while off-grid camping, please dispose of your garbage correctly, use biodegradable products, and leave your campsite untouched when you leave it. Of course, please avoid damaging plants and affecting wildlife and respect the natural environment.

Final Thoughts

In the land of natural beauty in the UK, camping is undoubtedly a great way to get close to nature. Off-grid camping allows you to get away from traditional camping sites and facilities, establish a real connection with the environment, and experience a real sense of adventure.   

To find a big campsite with all the services you need, you need a lot of planning permissions and council approvals. In beautiful, rural, protected areas, this may not be possible. However, if you know a friendly farmer, you can camp on their land as an alternative place to escape the power grid. Small sites are usually more peaceful because they only have five pitches and tend to draw people who like being outside.