It’s easy to think that summer is over and that means we should pack our camping gear away once the kids go back to school. Yes, the nights are drawing in, but September is still a great month for camping. The weather is still kind enough for a weekend break and it’s a great way to unwind after a hectic couple of weeks back at work and school.
Here are 5 good reasons why September is still a great month for camping.
The weather is still nice
September can often bring an Indian summer and surprise us with mild temperatures and dry spells. Whilst you might not be sunbathing don’t write the month off. You will need a few extra layers for the evenings but, generally speaking, September can still offer some nice warm sunshine and warmish weather.
Some of the better weather can be found in the south, why not consider the Isle of Wight or the Jurassic Coast. Pack your all-season sleeping bag, or an extra duvet, and you should still be cosy enough. Have a look at these tips for keeping warm on the camping with style website for some great advice.
The campsites are quieter
Campsites are quieter at this time of year, especially mid week. With schools going back and people back to work, that is the end of the season for many. The roads tend to be quieter and busy tourist destinations are less packed. The Camping and Caravanning Club offer pitch discounts which you might be able to take advantage of. You are unlikely to be queuing for the showers, or the washing up area, in September. You should also get the benefit of being able to pick the best pitches on the campsite.
Campsites are cheaper
We know all too well that once the schools go back prices tend to tumble. As we move out of peak season the campsite tariffs generally drop. You can take advantage of the low season rates by camping in September. The Club sites offer discounts and many private sites are still keen to attract couples as well as families. You can find a well priced pitch with a bit of internet searching.
Several large commercial sites offer great value and have onsite indoor swimming pools, arcades and restaurants. These can provide a good value weekend break.
September is great for exploring the outdoors
September is great month for getting your outdoor gear on and getting out and about. The cooler weather means that walking and cycling can be more comfortable without the humidity and heat of summer. Whether you like walking, cycling or fishing, September is a good time to explore. You can do many of these activities direct from the campsite.
The leaves are beginning to turn their autumn colours, the evening sunsets can be stunning and the landscape begins to change.
The National Trust has some great places to visit around the UK, with indoor and outdoor attractions.
If you want something a bit more exhilarating then Go Ape will keep everyone occupied outdoors for hours. They offer loads of activities at their eight locations.
The evenings are drawing in
This may not seem like much of a benefit, but if you have camped with younger children will know the challenges of summer camping. Long days of sunlight mean the kids are awake early and up late each night. The darker evenings and quieter campsites of September mean that, hopefully, everyone will be getting a bit more sleep. Cooler evenings mean it a great time to cosy up and watch a film, play a board game or just relax around the barbecue as you cook your evening meal. Here at Colapz we have plans to launch our own barbecue.
You will need to be prepared for the unpredictable British weather, make sure you have your water-proofs, warm socks, a hat and perhaps a hot water bottle. Take your best all-season sleeping bag and your kettle for a hot drink in the morning. It is a good idea to have a shelter of some kind which you can cook under out of any rain and wind.
So, don’t pack you camping stuff away yet, there is still the opportunity to get out for a late camping break before winter. You may even be hardy enough to push it to the October half-term break, many people do. Autumnal camping offers a new experience that can thoroughly enjoyable.
