PERSONAL SPACE
We once arrived at a free campsite that was completely deserted . We set ourselves up and went for a walk around the area . When we returned , we found another caravan parked right next to us , close enough that we could touch their van from ours through a window . And it was not as if there was no room to spread around either . The campsite was huge .
There ’ s no law that says you have to keep your distance from other campers but , if there is enough room to spread out , why not do so ? Admittedly , there are some people who do not feel comfortable camping alone , especially at a remote location . If you would feel more comfortable camping near another camper , perhaps ask them if they are okay with you camping close to them .
We have met plenty of people in a similar situation and we have been happy for them to park nearby for added security . Just don ’ t assume it ’ s okay . People have as much right to privacy as you do to security .
While we are on the subject of space , keep in mind many free camps are quite popular and may have limited space available . In these instances , don ’ t hog more space than you actually need .
CAMPFIRES
Without question , one of the appeals of free-camping is the ability to have a campfire . Unfortunately , these too can be a source of conflict . Half of the problem stems from the fact that many people have little or no idea how to make a campfire that has minimal smoke . Also , some campers feel the need to build a fire that can be seen from space .
A good campfire is one that uses good , dry hardwood arranged with enough space to allow air to feed the fire and minimise smoke . If you have a portable fireplace , use it – they are usually designed to limit smoke and use less wood .
But even the most efficient fire will make smoke , and if the wind is blowing it towards your neighbour ’ s caravan , you may not be very popular . If the wind is not favourable , perhaps consider not having a fire at all .
Portable fire pits are designed to minimise smoke . Always use one if you have it available but only if campfires are permitted .
10 \