Before setting off on your travels, it’s important to know the etiquette around campervan life. Respecting fellow travellers, local communities, and the environment ensures that everyone can enjoy their journey.
The Dos of Campervan Etiquette
- Do follow the rules: Each campsite or parking spot may have its own set of rules regarding parking, noise levels, and usage of facilities. Always familiarise yourself with these guidelines and adhere to them.
- Do observe quiet hours: Many campsites enforce quiet hours, typically starting around 10pm. Be mindful of noise levels to ensure a peaceful environment for everyone.
- Do clean up after yourself: Always leave your campsite or parking area as clean, or cleaner, than you found it. Dispose of trash properly and recycle whenever possible.
- Do minimise environmental impact: Stick to designated paths and campsites to protect natural habitats. Avoid picking plants or disturbing wildlife.
- Do keep noise to a minimum: Whether it’s loud music, conversations, or running your generator, be aware of the noise you’re creating and how it might affect others nearby.
- Do respect personal space: Give your fellow campers plenty of room. Park at a reasonable distance from other vehicles and avoid encroaching on their space.
- Do use facilities responsibly: If you’re using shared bathroom facilities, clean up after yourself and don’t hog the showers or sinks.
- Do manage waste properly: If your campervan has a toilet, ensure you dispose of waste at designated dump stations. Never empty your tanks in unauthorised areas.
- Do greet your neighbours: A friendly hello can go a long way. Campervan communities are often tight-knit and welcoming.
- Do share and help out: If you see someone struggling with their setup or looking for advice, offer a hand. Sharing tips and resources builds a supportive community.
- Do research overnight parking options: Ensure you’re parking in legal and safe locations, whether it’s a campsite, a friend’s driveway, or a designated overnight parking area.
- Do check local regulations: Different areas have different rules regarding overnight parking. Avoid fines and conflicts by knowing the regulations of the places you visit.
- Do support local businesses: Whenever possible, shop locally and use services offered by the communities you visit. This helps foster good relationships and supports local economies.
- Do be mindful of your impact: Be aware of how your presence affects local residents and try to blend in rather than stand out.
The Don’ts of Campervan Etiquette
- Don’t park just anywhere: Avoid staying overnight in unauthorised or private property without permission. This includes parking lots, residential streets, or protected areas.
- Don’t ignore signs and regulations: Pay attention to local rules and signage regarding parking and camping restrictions.
- Don’t waste water or electricity: Use resources like water and power sparingly, especially if you’re on shared hookups or in areas with limited resources.
- Don’t overstay your welcome: If a site has a time limit, respect it. Overstaying can inconvenience others and is often against regulations.
- Don’t take up more space than necessary: Whether it’s your vehicle, your gear, or your belongings, be mindful of the space you’re using and keep it confined to your designated area.
- Don’t block access: Ensure that driveways, roads, and pathways remain clear and accessible for other campers and vehicles.
- Don’t play loud music or make excessive noise: Respect the peace and quiet of the campsite or parking area, especially during the evening and night.
- Don’t leave your mess for others to clean: Always clean up your campsite, dispose of trash properly, and leave no trace of your stay.
- Don’t peek into other campervans: Respect the privacy of others. Avoid peeking into windows or entering others’ space without invitation.
- Don’t assume everyone wants to socialise: While being friendly is great, respect that some people may prefer solitude or quiet time.
- Don’t empty your tanks or dispose of waste irresponsibly: Always use designated dump stations for grey water and black water. Never release waste in unauthorised areas.
- Don’t leave litter: Dispose of all rubbish and recycling in appropriate bins and avoid littering in natural areas.
- Don’t leave valuables in plain sight: Keep your campervan secure by locking doors and windows and storing valuables out of sight.
- Don’t neglect safety measures: Follow safety guidelines for using campfires, cooking appliances, and other potentially hazardous equipment.
