Embracing the Wild: A Beginner’s Guide to Wild Camping

Embracing the Wild: A Beginner’s Guide to Wild Camping 
There’s a special kind of freedom that comes with wild camping. No designated plots, no bustling campgrounds, and no artificial lights  just you, your gear, and the raw beauty of nature. Whether you’re pitching your tent beside a remote loch in Scotland or tucking into the folds of a quiet forest, wild camping offers a deeper connection to the outdoors.

But with that freedom comes responsibility. Here’s everything you need to know before heading out on your wild camping adventure.

What Is Wild Camping?
Wild camping simply means setting up camp outside of official campsites — usually in remote or less-travelled areas. It’s about solitude, self-sufficiency, and sleeping under the stars, often far from other people.

In the UK, wild camping is generally allowed in Scotland (thanks to the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003), as long as it's done responsibly. In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, it's usually not permitted without landowner permission, except for a few areas like Dartmoor (though even that has been subject to legal debate).

Why Go Wild Camping?

• Freedom – You’re not tied to a booking or a timetable.
• Adventure – Every spot you choose is part of the journey.
• Connection – You experience nature more intimately and without distractions.
• Peace – No noisy neighbours, just the rustle of wind and wildlife.
  

Essential Gear for Wild Camping
Wild camping means packing light, but smart. Here’s a checklist:

• Tent or bivvy bag – Lightweight and weatherproof.
• Sleeping bag & mat – Suitable for the season.
• Backpack – With enough capacity for your gear, food, and water.
• Stove & cooking gear – Compact options like a Jetboil or Trangia.
• Food & water – Bring enough, or know where to safely collect/filter water.
• Navigation tools – Map, compass, and/or GPS.
• Headtorch – With extra batteries.
• Clothing – Layered, weather-appropriate, and quick-drying.
• First aid kit – Always.
• Litter bags – Leave no trace behind.

Choosing Your Spot
Look for flat, dry ground away from footpaths, farmland, or private buildings. Ideal wild camping spots are:

• Near a water source (but not too close — avoid contamination).
• Sheltered from wind.
• Secluded and out of sight.
• On durable surfaces like grass or heather, not sensitive ecosystems.

In Scotland, follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. In other parts of the UK, discretion and courtesy are key — arrive late, leave early, and never camp in large groups.

Wild Camping Etiquette
Wild camping only works if we all respect nature and each other:

• Leave No Trace – Pack out everything, including toilet paper.
• Camp Low & Late – Pitch up late in the day and leave early in the morning.
• Don’t Light Fires – Use a stove instead. Fires can scar landscapes and risk wildfires.
• Respect Wildlife – Stay quiet and don’t disturb animals or nesting birds.
• Stay One Night Only – Avoid creating a ‘campground’ feel.

Is Wild Camping Safe?
Generally, yes. With preparation and awareness, wild camping can be a safe and rewarding experience. Check the weather, let someone know your plan, and trust your instincts. A night alone in the hills can be a powerful reset — just know your limits.

Final Thoughts
Wild camping strips everything back. No plug sockets, no showers, no scheduled check-outs — just nature at its purest. It's not about luxury; it’s about liberation. You don’t need to be a seasoned adventurer, just respectful, prepared, and curious.

So lace up your boots, pack your gear, and step off the beaten path. The wild is waiting.

Wild Camping Gear Guide: What to Pack for Your Next Adventure
There’s nothing quite like waking up to the mist lifting over a remote valley, the only sound being a distant bird call or the rustle of the wind through the trees. That’s wild camping — raw, real, and incredibly rewarding. But it’s also a test of preparation. The right gear can make or break your experience.

Best Tent for Wild Camping

Recommendation:
Lightweight | Freestanding | All-weather
This tent is a favourite among solo hikers and lightweight duos, Highlander Blackthorn 1 Man Tent GEN 2 At just 1.7kg, it strikes a perfect balance between weight and durability. It packs small, pitches quickly, and handles rain and wind like a champ.

Sleeping Bag & Mat

Sleeping Bag:
3-season | G-Loft insulation | Packs Neat
Warm, lightweight, and ideal for chilly UK nights, the British Army Arctic or Modular bag systems are a great investment if you plan to wild camp often. It keeps you toasty into early spring and late autumn.

Sleeping Mat:
Inflatable | Super compact | Insulated
Comfort meets tech. This mat is incredibly lightweight yet warm enough for cold ground.

Rucksack / Backpack

Recommendation:
Ultralight | Comfortable | Adjustable harness
This is one of the most popular rucksacks for long-distance backpackers and wild campers. The Long/Short back British army Bergens provide excellent ventilation, a sturdy frame, and enough space for all your wild camping essentials without overloading.

Cooking System

Stove:
Fast boil | Integrated system | Compact
For boiling water and quick meals, the Jetboil Flash is unbeatable. Boils water in under 100 seconds — perfect for a hot cuppa or rehydrating meals after a long hike.

Cookware:
Lightweight | Durable | Nesting design
Titanium is king when every gram counts. This pot pairs beautifully with the Jetboil or an alcohol burner setup.

Clothing & Footwear Essentials

Base Layers:
Warm | Breathable | Odour-resistant
Merino wool base layers keep you warm, dry, and stink-free — especially valuable if you're out for multiple nights.

Waterproof Jacket:
Lightweight | Breathable | GORE-TEX equivalent
British weather is unpredictable. A good shell jacket is non-negotiable. Goretex type jackets and trousers are packable and keeps you dry without cooking you inside.

Hiking Boots:
Supportive | Waterproof | Lightweight
Whether you're crossing boggy moorland or rocky ridges, these boots deliver comfort and grip with minimal break-in.

Other Essentials

• Headtorch:
• Water Filter:
• Power Bank:
• Navigation:
• First Aid Kit:

Leave No Trace Must-Haves

• Dry Bags: Keep clothes and electronics safe. Sea to Summit are great.
• Toilet Kit: Trowel, biodegradable wipes, ziplock bag (for packing out TP).
• Trash Bag: Always leave your pitch cleaner than you found it.