Evenings on a campsite are among the best parts of a holiday. The light softens, children play, and people sit outside with a warm drink. But in the evening, sound carries much further than you would think, and a tent wall does not stop anything. A little consideration makes the difference between a peaceful campsite and one where everyone lies awake, wishing their neighbours would be quiet.
Keep the volume down
Voices, laughter and music all travel across the pitches after dark. Lower your voice as the evening goes on, and keep music soft or switch it off. If you are chatting round a table, remember that people in nearby tents may be trying to sleep, especially families with small children. It costs nothing to be considerate, and most neighbours will notice and appreciate it.
Think about small noises that people forget. Zips sound very loud at night, so try to open and close them gently. Car doors, boot lids and gas canisters can also be surprisingly noisy. If you arrive late or leave early, park carefully and carry your things quietly. Use a small torch and point it towards the ground, so that you do not shine it into someone else's tent. Keep your voice low even for practical conversations.
Look after shared spaces and boundaries. Do not walk across other people's pitches, and keep your belongings within your own area. Check what applies where you are regarding quiet hours, barbecues and other evening activities. Keep children close to your pitch as it gets dark, and remind them that others may already be asleep. A friendly reminder to the little ones works better than a stern word.
If something bothers you, speak to your neighbour kindly and early, before it grows into a problem. A smile and a polite request usually works wonders. Equally, if someone asks you to be a little quieter, take it well and do not be offended. Everyone is on holiday, and most people want the same thing: a peaceful evening. A quick hello at the start of your stay can make all the difference.
