Camping in summer is one of the best ways to enjoy the great outdoors. Longer days, warm evenings, and the buzz of activity make it an experience to remember for all the family. Here’s a collection of practical tips to keep your summer camping experience hassle-free, comfortable, and safe.
Pre-Book to Avoid Disappointment
Summer is our busiest time of year for camping. Deer’s Glade’s touring and camping site can book up weeks, or even months, in advance, especially during the summer holidays, and especially with the weather we’ve been having recently set to continue.
Many campgrounds operate at full capacity during holidays, weekends, and school breaks. So, whether booking with us or another campsite, to avoid the stress and disappointment of being turned away, reserve your pitch as early as possible. For instance, we wouldn't recommend turning up without a booking. This not only guarantees you a place to stay, but also gives you a better chance to select a location on the site, whether you want shade, proximity to facilities, or a quieter area. At Deer’s Glade we’ll always do our utmost to allocate the most suitable pitch if you ask. You’ll need to get in touch in advance. The location will be subject to availability.
So being early pays off in comfort and convenience. And if your plans change, with notice, we’ll happily rearrange your holiday dates if we can.
Know the Rules to Avoid Surprises
Every campsite is different, with its own set of rules and guidelines designed to keep everyone safe, comfortable, and happy. Before you arrive, take the time to read and understand what’s allowed and what isn’t.
Campfire and BBQ Restrictions
Summer often brings higher fire risks, especially in dry weather. Many campsites enforce strict rules on open fires, fire pits, and even certain BBQs to prevent wildfires. Some ban fires entirely during high-risk periods. If staying with us, check in advance if campfires are allowed, and if not, plan to bring a camping stove instead. Please note, for our site, fire pits and barbecues are only permitted provided that they are raised above the ground.
Quiet Hours During Light Evenings
Most campsites have designated quiet hours, typically in the evening and overnight, to ensure everyone can get a good night’s sleep. Loud music, shouting, or late-night partying can get you in trouble with other campers or site management. Knowing and respecting quiet hours shows good camping etiquette and keeps the peace. As a family campsite, we operate a policy to keep noise to a minimum between the hours of 22:00 and 07:00, with absolute quiet between 23:00 and 07:00.
Pet Policies
If you’re bringing a furry friend, make sure you know where the campsite allows pets. We’re pleased to say that we allow dogs when camping and touring, and in some of our glamping accommodation. We do have rules like keeping dogs on leads at all times and clearing up after their business obviously. We also have an exercise paddock over at Muntjac Meadow. To learn more about how dog-friendly our campsite is, have a read of a recent blog, Dog friendly Camping & Caravanning. Always check the policy however in advance to prevent hassle and to help you prepare, like bringing leads, tie-outs, or poo bags. Please note, we allow two dogs per pitch, and there is a small additional charge.
Take a few minutes to read our park rules before you visit to stay fully informed.
Pack for the Heat and Sun
Summer camping is ideally about enjoying warm, sunny days. We hope the warm weather continues, but too much sun can quickly turn a great trip into an uncomfortable experience if not prepared. Sunburn, dehydration, and heat exhaustion are real risks if you’re not equipped. Plan ahead to protect yourself and your group from the summer heat.
Stay Hydrated
It’s easy to underestimate how much water you’ll need in the heat. Bring extra water, and consider large water containers if your pitch doesn’t have easy access. We have drinking water on-site, but some water supplies, such as washing up, are for washing purposes only. Drinks are also available at the on-site shop.
An Awning for Extra Shade
Your tent may get hot in direct sunlight. Bring a canopy, or awning to create extra shaded areas for relaxing, cooking, or eating. Even a simple beach umbrella can help. Shade is especially valuable during the hottest part of the day and can make your pitch much more comfortable. We allow awnings on our pitches for an additional charge. This can be added when booking or after by calling reception.
Beat the Bugs
Summer evenings at a campsite can be beautiful, but they’re also prime time for mosquitoes, midges, and other annoying insects. Bug bites can be itchy, painful, or even cause infection. A little planning goes a long way to keeping your campsite bug-free and comfortable.
Insect Repellent
Always pack a reliable insect repellent. Sprays or lotions with picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus, are effective at keeping mosquitoes and biting flies (like horse flies) at bay. Citronella candles, coils, or lanterns help create a bug-repelling zone around your seating or cooking area. While they’re not foolproof, they can make a big difference in keeping mosquitoes away during meals or evening chats around the table. Obviously, use candles with caution.
Mesh Netting for Eating and Sleeping Areas
Investing in good-quality mesh netting can be a game-changer if it’s mosquito season. Consider hanging mosquito nets for sleeping areas (especially if you sleep with tent windows open for ventilation), pop-up netting shelters or screens for eating and relaxing, or bug-proof inner tents or bivy nets for lightweight camping.
By planning ahead to keep bugs at bay, you can enjoy your summer camping trip without constant swatting and itching. A little extra gear and preparation make all the difference!
Keep Food Safe
Summer heat can turn food safety into a real challenge. Warm temperatures speed up spoilage and create the perfect environment for bacteria to grow. Taking a few smart precautions will keep your food fresh, safe, and insect-free.
Use Good-Quality Coolers
Invest in a reliable cooler with good insulation. Ideally opt for an electric camping fridge and book a pitch with electric hook-up. At Deer’s Glade you’d just need to bring a cable, too. If relying on a non-electric cooler box, we suggest chilling your cooler with ice or freezer packs to get it cold. Add your food only when the cooler is nice and cold, and use frozen water bottles or dedicated ice packs to keep temperatures lower for longer. Quality, well-insulated cool boxes can keep items chilled for up to 48 hours, but we wouldn’t recommend them in really hot weather.
Keep Insects and Animals at Bay
Don’t leave food lying around your pitch. Store everything in sealed containers. This keeps ants and flies from being too attracted to your pitch. Food smells can travel far in the countryside. Always clean up immediately after meals. Don’t leave plates, scraps, or cooking utensils out. Use the on-site washing-up facilities. Secure your rubbish in covered bins or bags. There are large general waste bins at the entrance to our campsite. We suggest emptying and disposing of your rubbish after each meal.
Get a Comfortable Sleeping Setup
A good night’s sleep can make or break your camping trip. Even in summer, temperatures can drop sharply after dark, especially in the countryside. The right sleep setup helps you stay cozy, comfortable, and well-rested for the next day.
Bring a Summer Sleeping Bag
Many people make the mistake of bringing their thickest winter bag and end up sweating all night, or grabbing a thin blanket and shivering when the temperature dips. Look for a sleeping bag designed for summer use: lightweight, breathable, but with enough insulation to keep you warm when nights get unexpectedly chilly. Mummy or rectangular styles work well, but make sure the temperature rating matches the climate you’re camping in.
Invest in a Good Sleeping Mat or Air Mattress
Your sleeping mat isn’t just for comfort. It provides essential insulation between you and the cold ground. Even in summer, the ground can sap heat from you overnight. A quality foam pad, inflatable mat, or air mattress offers cushioning that keeps you comfortable while protecting against cold spots. Self-inflating models add extra ease and support without much bulk.
Ventilate Your Tent
Hot summer days can make tents stuffy, trapping heat and humidity inside. Many modern tents have mesh windows, doors, or roof panels designed for airflow. Use them! Crack open vents or doors (with bug mesh closed) to reduce condensation and keep air moving, making for a fresher, cooler night’s sleep.
Summer Camping at Deer's Glade
Summer camping is one of the best ways to enjoy the great outdoors - long days, warm nights, and plenty of time to relax or explore. But a little planning goes a long way. From booking your pitch early and knowing the campsite rules to packing for sun, heat, bugs, and comfort, these simple steps help you avoid hassles and make the most of your adventure.
By staying prepared and thinking ahead, you’ll be free to soak up the fresh air, beautiful scenery, and quality time with family or friends. So pack smart, stay safe, and happy camping!
Next time we’ll share our tips for those cooler, wetter summer camping trips!
If you fancy a camping trip with us, we cater for all styles of camping. Whether it’s family fun at Deer’s Glade, tranquility at child-free Deer’s Mead, or back-to-basics camping at our wild camping site, Muntjac Meadow, you’re guaranteed some amazing holiday memories. Check availability online or give us a call on 01263 768633 to book.
