Wild swimming is a highlight of UK van life. Here is how to stay safe.
Cold Water Shock
UK water is cold (10-18°C in summer). Cold water shock causes gasping, hyperventilation, and can lead to drowning within 1 minute. Enter slowly — do not jump or dive in. Let your body adjust. Wear a wetsuit if the water is below 15°C.
Safe Spots
- Lakes: Windermere, Coniston, Ullswater (Lake District). Parking nearby.
- Rivers: River Wye (Symonds Yat), River Dart (Dartmeet). River swimming is safer than the sea.
- Sea: Coves and sheltered beaches only. Avoid: open beaches with surf, areas near river mouths (rip currents), harbours with boat traffic.
- Quarries: NEVER swim in disused quarries. Cold water, submerged machinery, no rescue access.
Essential Equipment
- Wetsuit or thermal swimwear — 3mm neoprene for UK waters
- Swim buoy — bright orange inflatable bag. Makes you visible to boats. Also acts as a float.
- Water shoes — sharp rocks and broken glass on some lake/river beds
- Change robe — changing on a beach after swimming
- Warm clothes — put on immediately after swimming. Bring a flask of hot drink
Safety Rules
- Never swim alone
- Check for hidden currents and underwater hazards
- Tell someone where you are swimming
- Know your limits — cold water reduces strength quickly
- Exit before you get too cold (takes 10-20 minutes in UK summer water)
- The RNLI advises: "Float to Live" — if you get into trouble, lie on your back, float, and call for help
