If you are new to camping, you will often see the term electric hook-up when browsing campsites. It can sound a little technical at first, but it simply means that the pitch has access to mains electricity.
Electric hook-ups are very common on campsites across the UK and are especially popular with campervans, caravans and motorhomes. They allow you to power appliances, charge devices and add a few extra comforts to your trip.
Here is what electric hook-up really means and how it works on a campsite.
What is an electric hook-up?
An electric hook-up, often shortened to EHU, is a power supply point located at your pitch.
The campsite provides a socket that connects to your caravan, campervan or camping setup using a special outdoor cable.
Once connected, you can safely access electricity during your stay.
This electricity usually powers things such as:
- Interior lighting
- Phone and device charging
- Small appliances
- Fridges in caravans or campervans
- Heating systems in cooler weather
Electric hook-ups bring some of the convenience of home to your camping trip.
How electric hook-ups work
At most campsites, electric hook-up points are located on small posts around the camping area.
To use one, you will need a camping electric hook-up cable, which is normally a bright orange cable designed for outdoor use.
The typical process looks like this:
- Park or pitch your setup on the designated electric hook-up pitch
- Connect your hook-up cable to the power post
- Plug the other end into your campervan, caravan or hook-up adapter
Once connected, your setup will receive power from the campsite supply.
Many campsites include electricity in the pitch price, although some may charge a small additional fee.
Do tents use electric hook-ups?
Yes, some tent campers also use electric hook-ups.
If you are camping in a tent and want electricity, you will usually need a camping power adapter or hook-up extension lead designed for tents.
Tent campers often use electric hook-ups for:
- Charging phones and devices
- Running small lights or lanterns
- Using a cool box
- Powering a small fan or heater
It adds a bit of convenience while still keeping the camping experience simple.
How much power do campsites provide?
Most UK campsites provide between 10 and 16 amps of electricity on an electric hook-up pitch.
This is enough for normal camping appliances, but it is not designed for high powered household devices.
Using too many appliances at once may trip the circuit on the power post.
For example, running a kettle, heater and microwave together might exceed the limit.
It is always worth checking the campsite information to see how much power is available.
What you need to bring
Campsites provide the power point, but you usually need to bring your own connection cable.
The basic items you may need include:
- Electric hook-up cable
- Caravan or campervan power lead
- Tent hook-up adapter if camping in a tent
- Small extension lead for inside your setup
Most camping shops sell electric hook-up cables designed specifically for campsites.
Is an electric hook-up worth it?
Whether you need an electric hook-up depends on the kind of camping experience you want.
If you prefer a more traditional outdoor trip with minimal equipment, you may not need electricity at all.
However, if you are travelling with children, using a campervan or staying for several nights, electric hook-ups can make your trip much more comfortable.
They allow you to charge devices, keep food cool and add a few practical conveniences without losing the feeling of being outdoors.
Finding campsites with electric hook-ups
Many campsites across the UK offer electric hook-up pitches, but not all of them do.
When searching for a campsite, it is worth checking whether electric hook-ups are available and whether they are included in the pitch price.
Some campsites also offer fully serviced pitches that include electricity, fresh water and drainage.
Looking for campsites with electric hook-up pitches? Browse campsites on Skegr and find the right pitch for your next camping trip.