More than 25 hostels in our network will offer YHA Camping & Cabins this spring and summer. Any camping stay with YHA gives you the bonus of using the hostel facilities, including showers, restaurants, drying rooms and self-catering kitchens. Alongside spaces for your own tent, we have a variety of glamping options, from bell tents and safari tents to camping pods and Landpods. Landpods and camping pods come with beds and bedding, and our premium bell tents even have bean bags and wood-burners, but if you’re going traditional, here’s our short guide to what to pack.
Sleeping
A tent, of course. Then think about everything you’ll need for a comfortable night’s sleep. This includes a sleeping mat (inflatable ones are best) and a sleeping bag. If it’s winter, buy a four-season bag, otherwise we’d recommend a versatile three-season bag with a minimum temperature of around 0ºC. Sleeping mats also have a minimum temperature rating. Don’t forget a pillow either. If you’re hiking, then fill a stuff sack with clothes, but if you’re in a car, a decent pillow can make a world of difference. You’ll also need a backpack big enough to carry it all in.
Cooking
One of the advantages of camping at youth hostels is that you get full use of the self-catering kitchen. If a kitchen is unavailable, you need to think about cooking food. Making a meal plan is essential — choose easy-to-cook food, such as noodles, pasta or couscous. As well as a stove and gas, you’ll need a pan or two big enough for the group, and then plates, cutlery and cups for everyone. And never forget something to make coffee in.
Safety and personal items
Other essential items include a head torch with extra batteries, a first aid kit, sun protection and insect repellent, water bottles (and treatment if required), toiletries, including toilet rolls, and bags for rubbish. Finally, don’t forget to bring something to do, such as a pack of cards, games and a football. And remember, many of our hostels offer indoor and outdoor games to keep guests young and old occupied.
Got a furry friend you would like to holiday with as well? With cosy accommodation to cuddle up in and miles of walking trails to explore, taking your dog glamping is a real adventure. Enjoying the great outdoors is always better when you’ve got your best friend by your side, and there are plenty of glamping options that both you and your dog will love. Here are our top picks of glamping locations in the UK that are dog friendly. Paw-fect!
