Shore Power Hookups (230v UK)
Most UK campsites offer 230v mains electric hook-ups.
Hookup Cable
Standard UK campsite hookups use a blue 16A CEE connector (caravan type). Cable is 2.5mm² 3-core. Length: typically 10m-25m.
What You Need
- Hookup cable (25m covers most pitches)
- 16A to 13A adaptor (connects to household plugs)
- 16A coupler (to join two cables)
- RCD-protected extension lead (optional)
Connection Steps
- Plug into the campsite bollard (blue socket)
- Run cable to your van
- Plug into your van's external inlet
- Switch on the bollard breaker
- Check your van's consumer unit is working
Safety
- Use a cable designed for outdoor use (not indoor extension leads)
- Keep connections off the ground (use a hook or cable tidy)
- Do not exceed 16A total (about 3,700W)
- Your van should have its own RCD/breaker before internal circuits
Power Management
A 16A hookup can run: fridge, lights, phone charging, laptop, kettle (one at a time). It cannot run: kettle + heater + microwave simultaneously.
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UK Van Life Context
Van life in the UK has specific characteristics:
- Weather: Plan for rain, wind, and cold
- Campsites: Excellent network of facilities
- Roads: A-roads and B-roads are great for touring
- Regulations: Different rules in England, Scotland, Wales
- Seasons: Summer is peak, winter is quiet but cold
Best UK Locations
For this topic, we recommend:
- Lake District: Beautiful scenery, good facilities
- Cornwall: Coastal routes, mild weather
- Scotland: Remote wild camping, stunning landscapes
- Peak District: Central, accessible, varied terrain
- Wales: Affordable, uncrowded, mountainous
Practical Tips for UK Van Lifer
- Parking: Use apps like Park4Night and SearchForCamp
- Supplies: Stock up at supermarkets before remote areas
- Connectivity: Check coverage maps before heading out
- Safety: Tell someone your plans when wild camping
- Community: Join local van life meetups
Costs in the UK
Typical monthly costs:
- Campsite fees: £10-25/night
- Fuel: £200-400/month
- Food: £200-400/month
- Insurance: £50-100/month
- Maintenance: £100/month
UK Regulations
Be aware of:
- Speed limits (varies by vehicle class)
- Parking restrictions
- Wild camping laws (legal in Scotland, restricted elsewhere)
- Environmental protection areas
- Road tax and MOT requirements
