As the leaves change colour and a crispness fills the air, autumn transforms the great outdoors into a breathtaking playground for camping. It invites a calmer, cosier kind of adventure and offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of nature in its most vibrant form. However, with unpredictable weather and shorter daylight hours, camping in autumn is a little different to camping in summer.
Whether you’re heading out in a campervan you’ve recently bought from us, or you’ve planned to hire a campervan from us, with the right preparation, you can turn a chilly autumn camping trip into a memorable getaway.
In this blog, we’ll share five essential tips to help you make the most of your next autumn camping trip, ensuring that you create unforgettable memories while staying comfortable in your cosy campervan.
Why should you go camping in autumn?
Autumn camping is one of the most underrated times of the year for outdoor adventures and offers some of the best benefits. For example, popular summer sites tend to quieten down, meaning more availability, peaceful pitches, and sometimes, better prices.
As well as that, you get to enjoy the stunning scenery the autumn season has to offer. With fiery fallen leaves, misty mornings, and early sunsets to give you a good excuse to hunker down in your camper, autumn gives you ever-changing views right outside your van door.
The cooler air also makes activities like hiking or bike rides much more enjoyable, especially when they’re followed by a warming hot drink in a quaint tearoom, or a scrumptious meal in a local cosy pub.
Our top 5 autumn camping tips
The key to a successful and comfortable autumn camping trip is being prepared. Below are our top five autumn camping tips that will enhance your getaway.
1. Pack layers that you can build up or strip back
The autumn weather can swing from crisp sunshine to sideways rain in a matter of hours, so a good way to combat this is to pack plenty of layers. Some good examples include:
- Wooly socks
- Hats and gloves
- Slippers or insulated boots for when you’re around the campsite
- Light jackets, hoodies, or jumpers
- A warm blanket for the evenings
A good base layer helps retain body heat for colder days, while fleece or wool makes a great mid-layer. If you’re planning a few hikes, consider bringing a waterproof jacket and trousers for when the weather turns wet. Small details like thermal socks, hats, and gloves make a big difference when temperatures drop.
To ensure a warm night, be sure to bring thermal pyjamas, along with a hot water bottle or a heated blanket as these can really enhance your comfort in an evening.
2. Prepare for shorter days and colder nights
Daylight hours can reduce quickly in autumn, and temperatures can feel like they drop fast once the sun goes down. Arriving as early as you can to set up camp while it’s still light helps ensure an optimal setup. Make sure you bring reliable lighting, like head torches, lanterns, or battery-powered fairy lights so you’re prepared for when the early nights draw in.
Be sure to also check your heating system is in good working order before you set off on your trip. A diesel heater can turn a cold night into a cosy one, and when you choose one of our campervans with our Pioneer Explore conversion, it comes with a fitted Eberspacher diesel heater so you can enjoy warm, snug evenings from the get go.
If you want more practical advice for colder trips, read our guide on how to stay warm in a campervan this winter for simple ways to keep your van cosy and comfortable.
3. Choose the right pitch
Ground conditions can change quickly in autumn, and choosing the right pitch is crucial. You should aim to opt for a pitch that’s not at the bottom of a hill or slope, where cold air and moisture can collect. Spots that are slightly elevated and have some natural wind protection are ideal. You could check for hard-standing pitches when booking and consider bringing an awning to expand your dry living space – just make sure it’s securely fastened down!
Most campsites often seal off any pitches that are susceptible to flooding in bad weather, and if you’re unsure on which spot to choose, you should speak to the site owner for guidance.
4. Eat hearty and warming meals
Food becomes even more important when camping in autumn. Simple, hearty meals like pasta, stews, and soups help you refuel and stay warm. Hot drinks are also a must, because there’s nothing better than a cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate after a long autumn walk.
Some ways you can further enhance your campervan cooking include:
- Prepping your meals before you leave so you all you need to do is simply heat them up
- Bringing a stove or a portable cooker than can withstand outdoor cooking
- Using insulated mugs and bowls to help retain heat
Cooking in the autumn outdoors can be easy with a bit of preparation, but if you want to make it even easier for yourself, choose one of our campervans that already comes with a fully-fitted Dometic and SMEV hob and sink unit, so you can cook comfortably inside your vehicle.
5. Embrace your surroundings
One of the best parts of autumn camping is the vibe around you. The peacefulness, the dramatic skies, the unique sounds – it’s a great time to slow down and reconnect with nature. Going on a hike or strolling through a local village is a great way to immerse yourself in the stunning scenery around you.
You could really get into the autumnal spirit and indulge in seasonal food and drink whilst out and about, like pumpkin spiced lattes, toffee apples, or hearty pies for example. By simply embracing yourself in the surroundings, you can appreciate everything that comes with this beautiful time of year.
Plan your next autumn camping trip today
If you’ve never tried camping in autumn, now is the time. With the right mindset and a little preparation, it can be one of the most peaceful and visually stunning seasons to explore, and there’s no better way to enjoy autumn camping than in one of our fully converted VW campervans.
At camper_versions, we specialise in creating campervans that are built to keep you comfortable in all seasons. So if you’re ready to embark on an autumn adventure, be sure to shop our full range of campervans for sale today. Alternatively, you can test the waters instead and hire a campervan with us. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us if you have any questions about our vehicles.
FAQs around autumn camping
Is it too cold to camp in October?
Not if you’re properly prepared. With warm layers, thermal clothing, and weatherproof gear, autumn camping in October can be just as enjoyable as summer trips, with added cosiness and fewer crowds.
Is camping in autumn safe?
Yes, but you should always keep an eye on the weather forecast and be cautious of high winds or heavy rain. It’s wise to pack for changing conditions, like waterproof footwear, clothing, and coats. Planning ahead and being prepared is key to staying safe and comfortable.
Can I camp in a VW campervan during autumn?
Absolutely and many of our customers enjoy year-round travel. Our VW campervans are ideal for autumn as they have insulated interiors, are weather protected, and some have built-in diesel heaters for ultimate autumn camping.
What are the best campsites for autumn camping in the UK?
Many UK sites stay open into late autumn – some are even open all year round – and offer quieter, scenic stays. Be sure to look for sites that offer hard-standing pitches and access to walking trails, forests, or lakes to enjoy the very best of the season.