Managing Waste and Water While Living Vandalistically on the Road: Simple Methods for Efficient Handling
In the realm of motorhoming, finding fresh drinking water and appropriate waste disposal spots can seem like a daunting task, especially in the UK. But worry not, we've got some handy tips for you to conquer the open road!
If you're not planning to spend your entire trip on campsites, don't worry – we're here to help! Most likely, you're craving some motorhome wild camping, seeking a bit of peace and far-off campsites.
For those unfamiliar with the term, motorhome wild camping refers to the practice of finding secluded spots to park your van overnight without any facilities, such as electricity or hookups.
To help you navigate this exciting adventure, here is a breakdown of waste disposal and water sources for motorhomes in the UK and Europe:
Motorhome Waste Disposal:
Before diving into the kinds of waste disposal points, let's clarify the two main types of waste: grey and black. Grey waste includes shower and sink dirty water, while black waste refers to toilet waste. Generally, these types of disposal points are separate, with grey water going down a drain and black waste transferred to a chemical toilet disposal point.
Waste Disposal Points:
Here's a list of ways to dispose of waste when you're avoiding campsites and staying off the beaten path:
- Visit a Campsite: Pay a small fee (usually between £5-£10) to use the facilities at a campsite. Independent or farm-based campsites are more likely to accommodate this request.
- Local Community Points: Some community centers, car parks, and service stations provide motorhome service points for a fee.
- Motorhome Aires (Europe): In Europe, especially countries like France and Spain, motorhome aires and service points are common. You can easily find these sites by pulling up, paying a small fee, and taking care of your waste disposal or water needs.
- Public Facilities: As a last resort, public facilities like parks, rest stops, and public toilets can be used, but it's essential to clean up afterwards to maintain cleanliness and sustainability. Remember, this is not an ideal solution due to potential hygiene concerns and the burden it places on public areas.
Grey Water Disposal:
For grey water disposal, drainage points are available at motorhome aires and approved parking spots. If you're parked in a secluded area, a plastic container can be used to collect grey water and transport it to an appropriate location for disposal. Keep in mind that, in the UK, most roadside drains are for rainwater only, so be sure to locate a dedicated grey water drain if one is available.
In a pinch, you may empty your grey water into a road drain, but it's crucial to use eco-friendly washing-up liquid to minimize harm to the environment.
Black Waste Disposal:
For black waste disposal, you can utilize public toilets away from bustling areas like city centers and beaches. Websites and apps like Toilet Map can help you find quieter locations. It's also essential to clean up the area after use, avoiding dumping waste improperly.
To prolong the time between emptying your toilet cassette, consider using a plastic bag for used paper or a spray bottle for targeted water pressure to flush contents and clean the bowl. Remember, you don't need expensive motorhome toilet paper, and it's a good idea to choose eco-friendly options that break down easily.
Whether you're in the UK or Europe, it's vital to dispose of waste responsibly to minimize damage to the environment and contribute to the sustainability of wild camping spots for future generations.
Embark on your motorhome adventures with confidence, and enjoy the freedom of the open road!
If you decide to explore the vastness of Europe with your motorhome, you'll need to consider how to manage waste disposal and find water sources, especially when wild camping off the beaten path.
To ensure a sustainable motorhome lifestyle, it's vital to dispose of grey and black waste responsibly, taking advantage of campsites, motorhome aires, local community points, and even public facilities when necessary. To maintain cleanliness and minimize environmental impact, always dispose of waste responsibly both in the UK and Europe.
