Written by Solo Female Campervanning in the UK: or anywhere. Stay Safe, Stay Empowered 🇬🇧🚐✨
This is based on the UK but the same applies anywhere.
Exploring the UK in a campervan solo is a dream for many women—a chance to roam freely, wake up to the Scottish Highlands, park beside a Cornish beach, or meander through the Lake District. But while van life in the UK is generally safe, being prepared and aware ensures your solo adventures stay as magical as they should be.
Here’s how to stay safe and confident while campervanning alone across the UK.
1. Trust Your Instincts
If something doesn’t feel right, move on—no explanation required.
- A car park giving you bad vibes? Keep driving.
- A stranger a bit too curious about your plans? Politely brush them off and leave.
Your gut instinct is your best travel companion—use it.
2. Know Your Parking Options
The UK has loads of options for campervanners, but overnight parking rules vary depending on where you are. Safe choices include:
- Certified Campsites: These are everywhere, from small farm plots to fully equipped parks with facilities. Perfect for peace of mind.
- Pub Car Parks: Many UK pubs and businesses allow free or low-cost overnight stays if you support them.
- Wild Camping (Carefully): While technically illegal in most of England and Wales, it’s tolerated in some areas if done discreetly. Scotland is more lenient, but always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
🚫 Avoid deserted laybys, industrial estates, or poorly lit car parks. Search our site for campsites. Adding more everyday.
3. Keep Your Location Private – Social Media
It’s tempting to show off your dreamy camping spot on Instagram, but in real-time? Think twice.
- Avoid tagging your location while you’re still there.
- Keep your plans vague when chatting with strangers (“I’m meeting friends later” works wonders).
- If you need help, reach out to trusted family or friends rather than locals unless absolutely necessary.
- Disable location tagging on social media to keep your whereabouts private.
4. Lock It Down
Your van is your home, so make it as secure as one:
- Always Lock Up: Even if you’re just popping out for a quick walk or shower.
- Window Covers: Blackout blinds or thermal covers not only keep you warm but also prevent prying eyes.
- Extra Security Measures: Consider additional locks for doors, a steering wheel lock, or a small personal alarm.
And remember: don’t leave valuables in plain sight, especially gadgets or cash.
Bonus tip: A fake “Beware of Dog” sign or leash outside can be an excellent (and low-effort) deterrent.
5. Be Prepared for Emergencies
Carry some tools and safety gear to help in tricky situations:
- Pepper Spray? Not legal in the UK. But a personal alarm or small torch can work wonders for self-defense or drawing attention.
- Van Maintenance: Keep a tyre inflator, jump leads, and basic tools handy.
- Breakdown Cover: Sign up with a reliable service like the RAC or AA—being stuck alone in a remote area isn’t fun.
6. Plan Your Stops
The UK has plenty of amazing places to park overnight, but planning ahead makes a big difference:
- Arrive Before Dark: Give yourself time to assess a location in daylight and settle in before nightfall.
- Research First: Read reviews on parking spots via apps or forums—other vanlifers’ experiences are invaluable.
- Don’t Overcommit: If you’re unsure, have a backup plan. There’s no shame in moving on.
7. Have an Escape Plan
Even in the UK’s relative safety, it’s smart to prepare for the unexpected.
- Reverse Park: Always park facing the exit so you can leave quickly if needed.
- Keep Keys Close: Store them within reach at night—never buried at the bottom of a bag.
- Minimal Setup: Don’t unpack your entire van unless you’re certain about your location.
8. Blend In and Keep it Low-Key
Avoid making your van a target:
- Skip stickers or decorations that advertise you’re traveling solo or long-term.
- Close curtains at night and avoid flashing lights inside your van.
- Park in a way that makes your van look like it’s occupied by more than one person (e.g., two chairs outside).
9. Stay Connected
Even in the UK’s countryside, staying in touch is easy:
- Wi-Fi or Mobile Data: Most mobile networks cover rural areas, but investing in a MiFi or signal booster can help in dead zones.
- Share Your Plans: Let a trusted friend or family member know your route, even if it’s just a rough itinerary.
- Emergency Contacts: Save local police and emergency numbers, as well as roadside assistance, in your phone.
10. Embrace Community (Carefully)
The UK campervan community is friendly and welcoming, but always assess who you’re chatting with. Van meets, online forums, or chatting with people at campgrounds can be a great way to connect—but don’t feel obligated to share personal details or plans with strangers.
Empowering, Not Fearful
The UK is a fantastic place to explore solo, with its patchwork of history, stunning coastlines, and welcoming countryside. With preparation and a healthy dose of common sense, you’ll feel as safe as you do adventurous.
Solo campervanning as a woman is about freedom, confidence, and living life on your terms. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and don’t let fear stop you from experiencing the magic of the van life.
🚐✨ Have you campervanned solo in the UK? Share your safety tips or stories below! 🌿
Useful Phone numbers:
UK Police 999
UK Police not an emergency 101
NHS 999 or 111 Help and advice but not an emergency.
USA 911
Police Most of Europe 112
112 = Emergencies Only
It is now used by over 100 countries around the world for emergency calls. In the UK, it connects to the same services as 999 and works in exactly the same way. Neither number has priority over the other, so you may use either number to reach the emergency