Camping is top holiday for 80% of us - and it's even better when it's raining

08 August 2023 , 21:01

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Camping is still a favourite with Brits (Image: Getty Images)

It might have been one of the worst summers on record but it appears Brits still have a love for camping in the great outdoors.

Whether it’s the sound of the rain gently falling on the tent, or the stone that gets wedged into your back as you snuggle down into your sleeping bag camping, apparently, has a charm of its own. A new nationwide survey has proved once and for all that Brits are a nation of keen campers, with a resounding 82% claiming they either “like” or “love” it.

The rest of us (18%) are happy to admit they hate it. With pricey overseas trips out of the picture for many this year, 44% said they had chosen camping in the UK this summer, in a bid to save cash.

The survey revealed a definitive list of 20 things Britons love about tent holidays, with simply getting a bit of peace and quiet coming top (44%). Star gazing (34%), morning birdsong (27%), the sound of the rain on your tent (26%) and the smell of bacon frying on a camping stove (26%) were voted some of the greatest things.

Around 17% of people surveyed love taking their dog with camping with them (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

One in ten (ten%) love telling ghost stories, while 20% said you can’t beat the sound of the zip on the tent, according to the poll of 2,000 by car manufacturer, Dacia. Saving cash on a hotel (21%), going back to basics (22%), having a digital detox (13%) and bringing your pup along (17%) are also aspects of camping that appeal to the British public.

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We’ve all felt the downsides though; like the 40% of people that admit being bitten by bugs is just about the worst part of the adventure – and 20% saying that sharing a tent with a snorer is the pits. For Brits with a sense of adventure and for those who want a more comfortable camping experience this summer, Dacia offers a Sleep Pack for its Dacia Jogger model. The clever solution turns the Jogger’s spacious interior into a bedroom for two.

Luke Broad, Dacia Brand Director for the UK said: “We want to encourage people to make the most of spending time outdoors with their loved ones during these summer holidays. With the research highlighting the positive impact of being outdoors, we hope it encourages more Brits to go on alternative holidays, such as camping, due to it being an affordable and enjoyable way to spend quality time with friends and family.”

Stephen White