Motorhome Stopovers vs Campsites - What’s the Difference?

When planning a motorhome trip, one of the first decisions you’ll make is where to stopover. For some travellers, traditional campsites are the obvious choice. For others, motorhome stopovers offer a more flexible and often more characterful alternative.

But what’s the real difference between motorhome stopovers and campsites? And which option is right for your style of travel?

In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences, explore the pros and cons of each, and explain why many motorhomers choose a mix of both — with Brit Stops playing a central role in their touring plans.

What Is a Campsite?

A campsite is a dedicated facility designed specifically for overnight stays by caravans, motorhomes, campervans, and tents. Campsites in the UK range from basic, no-frills sites to fully serviced holiday parks with extensive amenities.

Typical Campsite Features

Most campsites offer some or all of the following:

• Marked pitches
• Electric hook-up
• Toilets and showers
• Fresh water points
• Waste and chemical toilet disposal
• Reception or booking system

Many campsites also provide extras such as on-site shops, laundrettes, play areas, and Wi-Fi.

Pros of Staying on Campsites

Access to Facilities

Campsites are ideal if you want:

• Long, hot showers
• Reliable electric hook-up
• On-site waste disposal
• Space to spread out

They’re particularly popular with families, first-time motorhome owners, and those staying in one place for several nights.

Suitable for Longer Stays

Campsites are well suited to:

• Week-long holidays
• Base camps for exploring an area
• Travelling with children or pets

If you plan to set up outdoor furniture, campsites are the appropriate and permitted option.

Predictability and Structure

For some travellers, the structured nature of campsites is reassuring. You know what to expect, facilities are clearly defined, and rules are enforced consistently.

Cons of Campsites

Cost

One of the biggest drawbacks of campsites is the price. UK campsite fees can range from £15–£40 per night. For frequent travellers, these costs can add up quickly.

Reduced Flexibility

Many campsites:

• Require advance booking
• Have check-in times
• Limit late arrivals
• Restrict short, one-night stays

This can make spontaneous travel more difficult.

Busy Atmosphere

During school holidays and summer months, campsites can feel crowded and noisy — particularly larger holiday parks.

What Is a Motorhome Stopover?

A motorhome stopover is a short-stay overnight parking location designed specifically for self-contained motorhomes.

In the UK, stopovers may include:

• Dedicated motorhome parking areas
• Pub or attraction car parks
• Farm shops and rural businesses
• Independent carparks

Stopovers are typically intended for one night only, with minimal or no facilities.

Brit Stops: A Popular Motorhome Stopover Option

Brit Stops is one of the most well-known motorhome stopover programmes in the UK.

With a Brit Stops membership, motorhomers can stay overnight at over 1,100 host locations, including:

• Pubs
• Breweries
• Vineyards
• Farm shops
• Attractions

These stays are free of charge, with the understanding that visitors support the host by purchasing food, drinks, or local produce.

Crucially, Brit Stops locations operate with clear landowner permission, removing uncertainty around overnight parking.

Pros of Motorhome Stopovers

Low-Cost or Free Stays

Motorhome stopovers are often:

• Free
• Low-cost
• Excellent value for money

For travellers covering long distances or touring regularly, stopovers can significantly reduce accommodation costs.

Flexibility and Freedom

Stopovers are ideal for:

• One-night stays
• Breaking up long journeys
• Spontaneous route changes

There’s usually no need to book in advance, making them perfect for relaxed touring.

Unique and Authentic Experiences

Staying at a pub, vineyard, or farm shop offers something very different from a traditional campsite.

Motorhome stopovers often provide:

• Quiet, rural locations
• Friendly hosts
• A chance to support local businesses
• A more authentic travel experience

Less Crowded

Unlike large campsites, stopovers usually host only a small number of motorhomes at a time, creating a calmer and more peaceful environment.

Cons of Motorhome Stopovers

Limited Facilities

Most motorhome stopovers:

• Do not offer electric hook-up
• Have no toilets or showers
• Do not allow awnings or outdoor furniture

You’ll need to be largely self-sufficient.

Short Stays Only

Stopovers are typically restricted to:

• One night
• Occasionally two nights with permission

They’re not designed for extended stays in one location.

Not Suitable for All Vehicles

Some stopovers may have:

• Size restrictions
• Sloping ground
• Limited access in poor weather

It’s important to check suitability before arriving.

Key Differences at a Glance

Length of Stay

• Campsites: Multiple nights or weeks
• Stopovers: Usually one night

Facilities

• Campsites: Full facilities
• Stopovers: Minimal or none

Cost

• Campsites: Paid nightly fees
• Stopovers: Often free or low-cost

Atmosphere

• Campsites: Busier, structured
• Stopovers: Quieter, informal

Booking

• Campsites: Often required
• Stopovers: Usually no booking

Which Is Better for UK Motorhome Travel?

The answer depends on how you travel.

Campsites Are Best If You:

• Want full facilities
• Are travelling with children
• Plan to stay in one place
• Like structure and predictability

Motorhome Stopovers Are Best If You:

• Prefer flexibility
• Travel frequently
• Enjoy spontaneous routes
• Are self-contained
• Want to reduce costs

Many experienced UK motorhomers use a combination of both, choosing campsites for longer stays and stopovers for overnight breaks.

Using Campsites and Brit Stops Together

Brit Stops works particularly well when used alongside campsites.

For example:

• Use a Brit Stops location to break up a long drive
• Stay at a campsite for several nights at your destination
• Use another stopover on the return journey

This approach offers the best of both worlds — comfort when you want it, freedom when you need it.

Responsible Motorhoming Matters

Regardless of where you stay, responsible behaviour is essential.

• Follow the site and host rules
• Don’t overstay at stopovers
• Avoid camping behaviour where it’s not permitted
• Dispose of waste responsibly
• Support businesses that welcome motorhomes

Brit Stops relies on mutual respect between hosts and travellers.

Final Thoughts

So, motorhome stopovers vs campsites — what’s the difference? In simple terms, it’s about style, flexibility, and purpose.

Campsites provide facilities, structure, and comfort for longer stays. Motorhome stopovers offer freedom, affordability, and unique experiences for shorter stays.

For UK motorhome owners, combining both options allows you to travel more often, explore more places, and enjoy a richer touring experience — especially when using trusted networks like Brit Stops.

Wherever you choose to stay, the most important thing is to travel responsibly, respect local communities, and enjoy the journey!