A psychologist has told the Express that camping can significantly benefit mental health, and new research supports this claim. A poll of 2,000 UK adults found that 90% of those who camp describe themselves as "happy campers."
Key benefits of camping
The survey, commissioned by The Camping and Caravanning Club for its 125th anniversary, asked campers what they gain from pitching a tent or caravan on a staycation or European trip. Fresh air topped the list (74%), followed by enjoying the nation's beauty spots (65%) and stargazing (55%).
Other benefits included spending more time talking to each other (35%), getting away from social media (34%), and relaxing with loved ones (34%).
Psychologist's perspective
Psychologist Dr Sophie Mort explained that camping helps relationships by removing distractions and pressures of daily life. She said: "When we're away from screens, work pressures and daily routines, we're more likely to have meaningful conversations, share experiences and form deeper connections with those around us."
She added: "So many of us are burned out, stressed out and even talked out right now. Camping gives everyone a task, putting up the tent, unrolling the sleeping bags or getting the stove going for tea, so people can be together without the pressure of more talking and dissecting. It's often in those low-stakes, side-by-side moments that conversation starts to flow naturally."
Digital detox and connection
The study found that camping is one of the few holidays where Britons truly switch off. Nine in 10 campers (92%) spend more than two hours less on their phones while outdoors. Nearly half (46%) believe camping helps them switch off more effectively than other holidays.
More than a third feel more connected to nature (35%) and appreciate simple pleasures (35%). Over one in three (34%) say camping unites people more than any other holiday, and 32% believe it encourages better conversations than staying in a hotel.
Favourite companions and drawbacks
Partners are the nation's favourite camping companions (63%), followed by children (46%), friends (37%), pets (17%), and parents (12%). Nearly one in 10 enjoy sleeping under the stars alone.
However, camping has drawbacks: bad weather (58%) and insects (53%) are the biggest bugbears. Leicester was named Britain's happiest city for campers, with 94% of residents describing themselves as happy campers.
Sabina Voysey, director general of The Camping and Caravanning Club, said: "While destinations and travel trends may have changed over the decades, the things people love most about camping have remained remarkably consistent, spending time outdoors, sharing experiences with loved ones and creating memories that last a lifetime."
She added: "Whether it is waking up to birdsong, cooking breakfast outside, stargazing at night or simply having proper conversations without the distractions of everyday life, camping offers something many people are clearly craving. It is simple, sociable and memorable, and this research shows why so many people continue to see camping as one of the best ways to spend quality time with the people who matter most."
