Alcohol Policy for Camping and Motorhome Trips

Planning a road‑trip or a weekend campsite? You probably want a few drinks to relax, but you need to know the rules first. In the UK, alcohol policy isn’t the same everywhere – each campsite, motorhome park and local council can have its own rules. This guide gives you the practical facts so you can enjoy a cold pint without getting a fine or a bad night.

What the law actually says

There’s no national law that bans drinking in a motorhome or a campsite, but a few legal points matter. You must be over 18 to drink any alcohol in public places, and that includes caravan parks and public beaches. Public drunkenness can lead to a warning or a Fine under the Public Order Act if you become a nuisance. Also, if you’re driving a motorhome, the drink‑driving limit is 35 µg of alcohol per 100 ml of breath – the same as a normal car.

Campsite and park rules

Most campsites publish their alcohol policy on the booking page or in the welcome pack. Common rules are:

• No open containers after a certain hour – many sites ask you to keep bottles in your vehicle after 10 pm to avoid noise.
• Designated drinking areas – some parks have a communal fire‑pit or a bar‑area where you can enjoy a drink, but the rest of the site stays dry.
• Fire safety – alcohol and open flames don’t mix well. If you’re lighting a campfire, check the site’s rules about alcohol consumption nearby.

If you ignore these rules, you could be asked to leave or even face a fine. The best move is to read the policy before you arrive and ask the site manager if anything is unclear.

Safety tips for responsible drinking on the road

Even if the law lets you have a drink, safety should come first. Here are a few quick ideas:

1. Keep water handy. One or two glasses of water between alcoholic drinks helps you stay hydrated and think clearly.
2. Don’t drink before you need to drive. Plan your drinking time after you’ve reached your destination or when you’re parked for the night.
3. Watch your limits. A standard UK unit is about 8 g of pure alcohol – roughly a small glass of wine or a half‑pint of beer.
4. Store drinks safely. If you’re staying in a motorhome, lock the fridge or cabinet to prevent kids or pets from getting into the alcohol.

Following these tips lets you enjoy the social side of camping without risking accidents or bad headlines.

Special cases – beaches, festivals and public land

When you set up a tent on a UK beach or at an outdoor concert, the local bylaws often restrict alcohol. Some beaches ban alcohol entirely during the summer to keep litter down. Music festivals usually have a strict “no outside alcohol” rule, and you’ll need a wristband to buy drinks on site. Check the event’s website or the local council’s page for the latest rules.

For wild camping on public land, you’re on your own. The law doesn’t forbid a quiet drink, but you must keep the area clean and respect neighbours. If you’re unsure, it’s safer to skip the booze until you reach a proper campsite.

Bottom line

Alcohol can add fun to a motorhome adventure, but it comes with a set of rules that vary by location. Know the legal age, respect the site’s specific policy, stay sober while driving, and always think about safety. Do that, and your next road‑trip will be the perfect mix of freedom, scenery, and a responsibly enjoyed drink.