Camping is a very popular activity in the UK, and with our beautiful landscapes, it’s not hard to see why. Whether you are new or experienced in camping, it’s always beneficial to join a camping club.
These clubs provide their members with access to exclusive sites, discounts on camping gear, and support from experienced campers. If you’ve recently bought a campervan from us, you may want to consider joining one of these clubs. If you own a Volkswagen campervan, joining a VW owners club can also be a great way to connect with other enthusiasts, attend events and access advice specific to your vehicle.
With so many camping clubs available, it can be difficult to know which one offers the best value, the right membership benefits and the most suitable campsites for your style of travel. In this guide, we compare some of the most popular camping clubs in the UK to help you decide which one is right for you.
1. The Camping and Caravanning Club
The Camping and Caravanning Club is a great UK-based club that was founded in 1901 and now has more than half a million members. It offers a range of benefits to members, including discounts on camping gear, access to exclusive camping sites, and camping insurance.
The club advertises itself as a friendly one and all profits are reinvested into the club to offer improved facilities, more discounts, and better campsites overall. It also offers a range of activities, such as group camping holidays, rallies, and camping competitions.
The Camping and Caravanning Club is the perfect option if you’re looking for discounts, more information on insurance, and a wide network of sites to stay at. To join the Camping and Caravanning Club, you need to pay £53 for a digital membership or spend an extra £5 to get the full print membership.
2. The Caravan and Motorhome Club
The Caravan and Motorhome Club is one of the UK’s largest clubs, with nearly one million members! Whether you like camping in a tent or you have a caravan or motorhome, you can join the network and enjoy a range of perks.
The camping club offers access to more than 2,500 campsites across the UK and Europe, as well as discounts on camping equipment and caravanning accessories. It also provides its members exclusive access to various activities, such as caravan rallies and camping trips. The club also has a forum that allows members to connect and offers a range of courses and workshops.
To join the Caravan and Motorhome Club, you will need to pay a £69 annual membership fee (this renews every year). However, a one-time, year-long membership is also available for £79. As part of your membership, you get a monthly magazine as well as discounts and access to a wide range of campsites in the UK.
3. The Motor Caravanners’ Club
If rallies and meetings are what you are looking for, then the Motor Caravanners’ Club is ideal for you. This club is much more focussed on meet-ups and conducts more than 500 of these events each year, although they do offer some discounts and access to some campsites. If you’re looking for the latter, the other clubs on this list may be more suitable.
To join the Motor Caravanners’ Club, you need to pay a fee of £39. This gives you access to a network of caravanners, a monthly magazine and a yearly handbook that details all the meetings scheduled for the year.
4. The Freedom Camping Club
Unlike the other clubs on this list, the Freedom Camping Club is free to join! Members get one free night of camping each year and access to a wide range of campsites around the UK. The club also hosts regular competitions, giving away vouchers, cash prizes, and camping equipment.
Something else that makes this club unique is that it also helps to license, advise, and promote campsites, so it supports both campsite owners and campers.
Find out more with camper_versions
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FAQs on Camping Clubs
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you understand the benefits, costs, and features of camping clubs, and to guide you in selecting the best one for your outdoor adventures.
What is a camping club?
A camping club is an organisation that provides its members with various benefits related to camping and outdoor activities. Membership often includes access to a network of campsites, discounts on camping gear, special events, and social gatherings. Clubs cater to different types of campers, including those who prefer tent camping, caravanning, or motorhoming.
What are the benefits of joining a camping club?
Discounts: Members often receive discounts on campsite bookings, camping gear, and outdoor equipment.
Exclusive Access: Many clubs offer access to a network of private or member-only campsites and locations.
Community: Join a community of like-minded outdoor enthusiasts, participate in organised events, and connect through social gatherings or forums.
Support and Resources: Access to camping guides, safety advice, insurance options, and support services tailored to campers’ needs.
How much does it cost to join a camping club?
Membership costs vary depending on the club and the level of benefits offered. Annual fees typically range from £30 to £100, but some clubs offer tiered memberships with different benefits or family plans. It’s important to review what is included in the membership fee to ensure it aligns with your camping habits and needs.
What types of camping clubs are available?
General Camping Clubs: Cater to all types of campers, including tent campers, caravanners, and motorhomers.
Specialty Clubs: Focus on specific types of camping or outdoor activities, such as glamping, wild camping, or RV travel.
Regional Clubs: Offer benefits and campsites specific to a certain geographic area, providing local insights and opportunities.
How do I choose the right camping club for me?
Consider Your Camping Style: Choose a club that aligns with whether you prefer tent camping, caravanning, or motorhoming.
Evaluate Membership Benefits: Look at what each club offers, such as discounts, campsite access, and additional services.
Check the Network of Campsites: Ensure the club has a good selection of campsites in the areas you plan to visit.
Read Member Reviews: Research member feedback to understand the quality of the club’s services and community experience.
Can I join multiple camping clubs?
Yes, you can join more than one camping club if you wish to benefit from the various advantages each offers. However, consider the overlap in benefits and the costs associated with multiple memberships to ensure they align with your camping plans.
Are there any camping clubs that offer family memberships?
Many camping clubs offer family membership options, which can provide discounted rates for multiple family members and additional benefits suited for families. Check with the specific club to see what family membership plans are available and what they include.