The ultimate guide to off-grid campervanning

First of all, it’s important to understand what wild camping actually means – for backpackers and hikers, wild camping is hiking to a remote spot on a hillside, pitching a tiny tent and setting off again the next morning. 

But in the context of campervans, it has several definitions, from park-ups on quiet country lanes to pub car parks. It can even mean staying on a traditional campsite without plugging into the mains, or using smaller sites that don’t offer all the facilities. 

With the right set-up, you can still cook meals, heat and light your campervan, connect to the internet and even watch TV if you wish.

A good leisure battery, solar panels to keep it charged and an inverter that lets you use 230V appliances are essential when camping without electric hook-up.

There are two types of campervan fridge: compressor and three-way. A compressor fridge is typically twice as efficient as a three-way fridge. A compressor fridge will take about 60W of power when running but switches on and off via its thermostat (45W is average).

A three-way absorption-type fridge will take at least double this power, typically 120W when running. The major difference here is that, when you are parked, the absorption fridge runs from your gas cylinder or mains hook-up. A single 6kg gas bottle holds as much energy as 63 fully charged 110Ah batteries.

Remember, in the UK, wild camping in your campervan is not a right and landowners can ask you to move on at any time. However, generally, if you are discreet and respectful, take all your rubbish away and don’t cause a nuisance, you are likely to be fine.

You should only stay in the same place for one or two nights and make sure there are no specific restrictions on overnight parking or other local byelaws that would prevent you from staying there. Some car parks ban overnight camping and you could be fined if you ignore their rules.

Don’t block driveways or entrances to fields with your campervan, stay away from buildings and keep out of view as much as possible. The key is not drawing attention to yourself, so try to avoid residential streets, always keep noise to a minimum and do not set up camping chairs and awnings outside your campervan. Generally, the more remote the location the better it is for wild camping in a campervan.

Scotland, Wales and the Lake District are very popular for off-grid and wild camping; however, that has created some resentment in local communities because of the irresponsible actions of some thoughtless campers.

If you do want to wild camp in these beautiful locations, then it’s essential that you are considerate and don’t behave in a way that will upset the people who live in the area.

For your own safety and security, consider the surroundings. Does the area feel safe? If not, move on to somewhere else. If you are solo camping, always make sure someone knows where you are. Lock your doors and cover your windows so no one can see inside.

Unlike much of continental Europe, where aires and their equivalent are widespread, the UK does not have an extensive network of free or low-cost overnight stopping places. However, there are a growing number of spots where you are welcome to spend the night. Brit Stops is a directory of locations, such as pubs, farms, shops and other businesses where you can stay overnight for free – with the hope that you’ll take advantage of the services and products on offer.

The Camping and Caravaning Club and the Caravan and Motorhome Club both have a network of privately owned affiliated campsites where the facilities are minimal. These small Certificated Locations and Certificated Sites charge a small fee to Club members.

The first thing to consider for off-grid camping is the campervan you will need. If your biggest priority is getting off the beaten track and accessing more remote rural locations, then a small, nimble campervan, such as a VW Transporter or similar, is your best bet.

This will almost certainly mean compromising on the facilities you have inside the vehicle, though, and in a small campervan that’s likely to mean no dedicated washroom/toilet. At best they will have a portable toilet and perhaps an external shower point, so you’ll need to decide if that will be enough for your needs, especially if you only plan to be wild camping for a couple of nights.

If you are planning longer off-grid campervan trips, more space – and, crucially, an on-board shower and toilet – will be important. In this case, you should go for something a little bigger for your off-grid adventures, such as a six-metre campervan with a washroom and kitchen. What you lose in agility you will more than make up for in comfort and convenience.

If you expect to do a lot of stealth camping in built-up areas, then you should consider a vehicle that looks less obviously like a campervan and in that way you’ll draw less attention to yourself if you’re parked in a street.

Off-grid campervanning offers an escape into nature, away from the constraints of traditional campsites. Whether you seek remote wilderness or tranquil certificated sites, preparation is key.

With the right set-up – efficient power sources, heating, water management, and mindful etiquette – your off-grid adventures will be unforgettable and responsibly enjoyed.