Camping is enjoying a major resurgence across the UK, with seven in ten Britons describing themselves as camping enthusiasts, according to new research commissioned by Isuzu UK.
The nationwide survey of 2,000 adults found that 70% of people enjoy camping, while just 30% admit they dislike sleeping under canvas. Younger generations are leading the revival, with an impressive 83% of Generation Z respondents saying they love camping, compared with those aged over 60, who are the least enthusiastic.
More than half (52%) of those surveyed believe camping is the ultimate way to enjoy a holiday, with that figure rising to 70% among Gen Z travellers. The appeal lies in reconnecting with nature, enjoying peaceful surroundings and escaping the pressures of everyday life.
Nature’s Simple Pleasures Drive Camping Boom
The research highlights how Britain’s love of camping is closely linked to the sensory experiences that come with spending time outdoors.
Nearly a third (29%) cited peace and quiet as the best part of camping, followed by spending time in the great outdoors (23%), gazing at the stars (21%) and waking up to birdsong (19%).
Traditional camping rituals also remain hugely popular, with 17% enjoying the smell of bacon cooking on a camping stove and the same number saying nothing beats drinking a hot cup of tea while overlooking the countryside.
Other favourite experiences included:
- Snuggling into a sleeping bag (17%)
- Smelling a campfire (16%)
- Exploring hidden locations (16%)
- Listening to rainfall while staying warm inside a tent (15%)
- Discovering hidden gems across the UK (15%)
- Toasting marshmallows around the fire (15%)
Summer Camping Plans Continue to Grow
The survey suggests Britain’s appetite for camping shows no signs of slowing down.
Half of all respondents (50%) intend to go camping during summer 2026, rising to 70% among those aged 18 to 29.
The biggest motivations include:
- Reconnecting with nature (45%)
- Enjoying holidays within the UK (44%)
- Spending quality time with family (37%)
- Saving money (33%)
- Escaping everyday life (31%)
A quarter of respondents (25%) believe camping is currently experiencing a major revival, while almost one in four (23%) consider the UK to be the best country in the world for camping holidays.
Britain’s Favourite Camping Destinations
When asked to name the UK’s best camping locations, the Lake District claimed top honours.
Great Langdale topped the rankings with 28% of the vote, praised for its spectacular scenery and walking routes beneath the Langdale Pikes.
Other highly-rated destinations included:
- Great Langdale, Lake District – 28%
- Watermouth Valley, Devon – 19%
- Red Squirrel, Glencoe, Scotland – 18%
- Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park – 17%
- The Duchess’s Meadow, Peak District – 14%
- Cloud Farm, Devon – 14%
- Wasdale Head, Lake District – 13%
- Petruth Paddocks, Somerset – 12%
- Llanberis, Snowdonia – 11%
- Holme Farm, Yorkshire Dales – 10%
Pick-Up Trucks Play Key Role in Outdoor Adventures
The research also revealed a strong connection between camping and capable vehicles.
Almost eight in ten respondents (78%) believe having a rugged vehicle, such as a pick-up truck, makes camping trips considerably more enjoyable.
Around one in six (16%) enjoy reaching places inaccessible to conventional vehicles, while 11% actively seek campsites away from busy tourist areas. A further 13% enjoy the freedom of camping in permitted wild camping locations.
Isuzu UK says these findings reflect how many D-Max owners already use their vehicles for leisure as well as work, with the pick-up’s practical load bed, towing capability and off-road credentials making it ideally suited to outdoor adventures.
George Wallis, Head of Marketing at Isuzu UK, said:
“There’s something timeless about loading up the truck and heading somewhere remote. Our customers tell us they love using their 4×4 D-Max to go camping, as it gives them the freedom to explore the great outdoors without overthinking it.”
Camping Isn’t for Everyone
Despite the growing popularity of camping, almost one-third (30%) of Britons remain unconvinced.
The biggest frustrations include:
- Putting up a tent in the rain (60%)
- Walking to the toilet during the night (55%)
- Discovering rain leaking into the tent (43%)
- Cold campsite showers (33%)
- Insects inside the tent (29%)
- Bug bites (29%)
- Packing away a wet tent (29%)
- Forgetting a sleeping bag (29%)
Other common complaints include drying wet clothing, strong winds, campsite noise and the challenge of squeezing too many people into a small tent.
Motoring Echo Top Tips: Getting the Most From Your Camping Adventure
Prepare Before You Leave
Check your tent, sleeping equipment and cooking kit before setting off to avoid unpleasant surprises at the campsite.
Choose the Right Vehicle
A practical vehicle with generous luggage space—or a capable pick-up such as the Isuzu D-Max—can make transporting camping equipment significantly easier while opening up more remote destinations.
Pack for Britain’s Weather
Even in summer, waterproof clothing, spare footwear and extra blankets can make the difference between an enjoyable break and an uncomfortable one.
Book Popular Campsites Early
Leading locations such as Great Langdale, Wasdale Head and Loch Lomond remain in high demand throughout the summer holiday season.
Leave No Trace
Respect the countryside by taking all litter home, following local camping regulations and helping preserve the UK’s most beautiful outdoor spaces for future visitors.
- You can also visit the Isuzu website here: http://www.isuzu.co.uk/
