Camping with the Environment in Mind
Looking for eco-friendly camping or green camping? Start by looking at the facts.
Words such as green, sustainable and eco-friendly can be difficult to navigate. What do they actually mean – and what does the campsite do in practice?
Here you’ll find a simple guide to what to look for, what to ask, and how to make an informed choice if environmental considerations are important to you when planning your camping holiday.
A more sustainable holiday
Look Beyond the Big Words
Green. Sustainable. Eco-friendly.
When you come across these words, ask yourself:
What’s behind the claim?
Look for specific information. Does the campsite offer waste sorting? Facilities for grey water disposal and toilet emptying? An environmental certification? Or other initiatives that the campsite explains in more detail?
The more specific the information, the easier it is to understand what the campsite actually offers.
Check What the Label Means
A label can quickly catch your eye. But what does it actually stand for?
If a campsite has an environmental certification, take a closer look. Who is behind the scheme? What requirements does it set? And what is the campsite assessed on?
That way, you can understand what the label actually represents instead of simply assuming that it means “green”.
Want to Know More About Environmental Certifications?
Environmental labels and certifications can make it easier to see which specific requirements a campsite works to meet.
Learn more about schemes such as EU Ecolabel and Green Camping, what they cover, and find campsites with environmental certifications.
Can’t Find the Answer? Ask
Not everything is necessarily listed on the website.
If there’s something you’d like to know, ask the campsite directly.
How do you sort waste? Do you have an environmental certification? What facilities do you offer for motorhomes? Can the local area be explored on foot or by bike?
The campsite hosts know the area better than anyone – so make use of their local knowledge.
Here are 10 practical habits that are easy to take with you
1. Give the Tap a Break Too
While you’re on holiday, the tap doesn’t need to be running all the time. Turn it off while brushing your teeth or washing up, and keep an eye on how long the water flows in the shower. Small pauses can make a difference.
2. Give the Car a Day Off
Not every holiday adventure has to start with the turn of a key. Walk to the beach, hop on a bike or use public transport when it makes sense. You might discover that some of the best experiences are closer than you think.
3. Sort It Before You Toss It
Waste sorting can vary from one campsite to another, so take a moment to check the signs before throwing anything away. If you’re unsure which bin to use, simply ask your campsite hosts.
4. Empty in the Right Place
Travelling by motorhome or caravan? Always use the designated facilities for grey water and toilet waste. Check where the disposal points are when you arrive, so you know exactly where to go when it’s time to empty the tanks.
5. Give Leftovers a Second Chance
Holiday shopping can easily result in a fridge full of half-used packets. Plan roughly how much food you need, save leftovers for the next meal and take a look in the fridge before buying more. Last night’s dinner might make a very good lunch.
6. Switch Off and Tune into Holiday Mode
Turn off lights and electrical equipment when you’re not using them. And every now and then, give the screens a break too – a deck of cards, a good book or a long evening outside needs very little electricity.
7. Use What You Already Have
Camping doesn’t have to begin with a shopping spree. Bring the gear you already own, borrow from friends or family, or rent the things you only need occasionally.
8. Bring it. Use it. Use it again.
Bring reusable bottles, lunch boxes, cups and tableware instead of reaching for single-use alternatives. They can be used again and again throughout your holiday.
9. Leave it like you’d like to find it
Take your rubbish with you, follow local rules and give wildlife, plants and other visitors the space they need. A little care goes a long way in keeping the place just as enjoyable for whoever comes next.
10. Start by Looking Just Around the Corner
Your next holiday adventure doesn’t have to be an hour’s drive away. Look for walking and cycling routes, beaches, nature areas, small towns and experiences close to the campsite. You might find that the best trip of the day is closer than you think.