How to camp safely during COVID-19 in 2021

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Last year brought a boom in interest in camping holidays that is set to continue into 2021. But from the messages I’ve received during the past 12 month I know that a lot of people have reservations and are wondering whether it is possible to camp safely during COVID-19.

There’s no doubt that camping is different during a pandemic. I’ve already shared what you can expect at campsites and our personal experiences of camping during COVID-19.

But what can you do to protect yourself and your family on a camping holiday in 2021?

It’s important to say I am not a health expert and I have based this post on Government advice, the information currently available to the travel industry and common sense.

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Here’s what we did while camping during COVID-19 in 2020 – you may find it useful too:

Check campsites are adhering to Coronavirus guidelines

Before you book, check what the campsite’s response is to the Government’s guidelines for hospitality businesses when they are given the go ahead to reopen in 2021.

You should be able to find this out on their website or by calling or emailing them direct.

Something else that you might find handy is to look out for the Government’s ‘We’re Good to Go’ and the AA’s COVID CONFIDENT accreditations. These are freely available to hotels, restaurants, pubs, B&Bs, campsites, self-catering accommodation, golf courses.

If a campsite has one of these accreditations you know it has in place the necessary risk assessments, safety measures and staff training, in line with the Government and UK Hospitality’s published guidelines.

You can find AA COVID CONFIDENT accredited accommodation listed on Rated Trips.

Follow the campsite’s rules 

Of course, every campsite and holiday park is different so they will have specific guidance for guests about social distancing and using their facilities.

Make sure you and everyone in your family is familiar with these rules. The site owners will thank you for being responsible guests.

Social distance

We’re all old hands at this now, but don’t let the holiday vibe distract you from safe social distancing in line with the latest Government guidelines.

Take basic supplies

Minimise the number of times you need to go to the shops or supermarket by bringing camping essentials with you. That includes hand sanitiser, antibacterial spray and soap.

Plan your camping meals before you leave home.

Here’s some more camping packing lists that might help:

• What to pack for a family camping holiday
• Caravan equipment checklist
• What to pack for a camper van holiday
• Glamping packing list
• Packing list for a mobile home holiday

If you’re planning on making the most of camping opportunities outside the summer season then don’t get cold. An UCO candle lantern will help keep tents warm in the winter months.

Bring a good first aid kit

Make sure you are self-sufficient when it comes to treating the inevitable bumps, scratches, insect bites and cuts that go hand in hand with camping holidays with kids.

Buy, restock or bulk up your travel first aid kit before you set off your camping holiday.

Plan your activities in advance

Many UK family attractions and days out will continue to require booking in advance in 2021.

This includes places like zoos, gardens, National Trust estates, English Heritage land and theme parks so allow them to limit visitor numbers and allow for social distancing.

Find out what there is to do near your campsite or holiday park before you leave home.

Here are some websites that might help you plan if you are visiting these popular UK camping destinations:

• Things to do in Cornwall with kids
• Things to do in Devon with kids
• Family attractions in the Midlands
• Places to visit in Northumberland
• Things to in the Peak District with kids
• Things to do with kids in Sussex

Find more days out in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland in my big round up of 101 UK attractions for families.

Camping again in 2021

Our positive experiences of camping during COVID-19 in 2020 mean we will definitely be camping again in 2021. Our kids have been asking when we can go away in the camper van again with the same frequency that they usually ask about Christmas!

Of course, a lot of other people have taken up camping in 2020 and campsites are already getting booked up for next year. Here’s some advice from travel experts about planning your 2021 holidays.

Are you looking forward to camping in 2021? Do you have any concerns about how to camp safely during COVID-19?

Don’t forget to check out my posts about what to expect when campsites reopen, our top camping tips and common camping mistakes to avoid.

Want more ideas for family holidays and days out? Read my tips for smashing family travel and sign up for my newsletter.

Disclosure: this post includes product placement.

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