If you’re looking for something a bit different this year, consider camping at Christmas and all the joys (and tidings) it brings! 

Embrace the magic of Christmas with this handy guide with everything you need to know about Camping at Christmas.

Book in Advance

Like summer, winter camping hot spots get booked up well in advance, so make sure you book early to secure your perfect Christmas campsite. Not all campsites in the UK cater to winter holidaymakers, so do your research in advance to find a site that does and is open for the festive period!

Pack appropriately

Camping in winter can have disadvantages, one of which is the weather! Warm, breathable clothing is essential for cosy nights in front of the fire. Nobody likes chilly hands and feet, so make sure you pack multiple layers, such as thermal tops, leggings, fleeces, scarfs, and hats, to make your winter camping trip enjoyable.

Heating your accommodation

Whether you're staying in a yurt, tent, or camping lodge, make sure you check what heating facilities are available for your trip. Before setting off, ensure your heaters are fully functional and know how to use them safely in your tent. If you have an open fire, you may need to come prepared with wood and fire starters.

Christmas Cooking

Are you planning to cook up a Christmas feast? Cooking on the campsite can be tricky, so check the campsite's cooking facilities before booking. Some sites will have communal kitchens, and others will require you to bring your own cooking equipment. Consider cooking some festive dishes to keep you in the Christmas spirit, like one-pot roast turkey, mulled wine on the hob, and cinnamon chocolate pancakes.

Don’t forget to Decorate!

Remember to decorate your camping area. Fairy lights, tinsel, bunting, and LED candles will all add atmosphere to your tent or caravan when camping at Christmas. If you're camping with kids, this can be a great activity to do if the weather turns bad. Let your artistic flare flow with paper chain angles or wreath-making with foraged foliage around the campsite.

Christmas Presents

If you’re camping at Christmas on the 25th of December, don’t forget to pack the presents! Keep the magic alive for the little ones by ensuring Father Christmas knows where your campsite lot is. You could even write a letter for Father Christmas in the lead-up to the day with the campsite address to make it extra believable. Not camping with kids? Opening presents on Christmas morning is a must-do whatever age you are!

Discover Local events

With thousands of campsites all over the UK in wonderful locations, make sure you check out local events when camping at Christmas time. Local artisan markets and festive-themed activities are in abundance this time of year. Enjoy a local Christmas light switch-on or festive trail with all the family.

A final note from us

Inspired to try camping this Christmas? Whether you're surrounded by family and friends or the peaceful solitude of the wilderness, sometimes the best gifts are the moments we share and the memories we create. 

For all Christmas content, check out our Camp Life section of the website, where we have shared Gift guides, inspiration, and showroom opening hours for the ultimate festive season.