RV Campsite Hookups Explained

When you're new to RV camping, figuring out campsite hookups can feel overwhelming.
What do you really need? What’s optional? And what does “full hookup” even mean?

Don’t worry—we’ve been there, too.

Whether you’re heading out with a motorhome, campervan, or trailer tent with electric, this guide will walk you through the basics of RV campsite hookups—so you can camp comfortably, safely, and without any surprises.

What Is an RV Hookup?

An RV hookup simply means a way to connect your camper to campsite utilities—like electricity, water, and waste disposal.

There are different levels of hookup:

• No hookup – basic pitch with no services
• Partial hookup – usually electricity, maybe water
• Full hookup – electricity, water, and waste (grey water and black water disposal)

Depending on your setup and how long you're staying, you may only need some of these.

1. Electric Hookup (EHU)

This is the most common RV hookup—and often the most essential.

What it does:

• Powers your lights, heater, fridge, charger, kettle, and other small appliances
• Provides a steady 230V power supply, just like at home

What you need:

• Electric hookup cable (usually 15–25 metres long)
• Hookup adaptor (if needed for your unit)
• RCD or circuit breaker built into your unit (for safety)

Things to know:

• Most campsites offer 16-amp outlets
• Don’t overload the system—stick to low-wattage appliances
• Plug in after setting up and switch off before disconnecting

Tip:

Always check if the site has EHU before booking. Some pitches don’t.

2. Fresh Water Hookup

Fresh water is usually available—even at basic campsites—but how it's delivered varies.

You might have:

• Shared tap nearby for filling your container
• Water hookup at your pitch with a tap and hose connector
• A fully plumbed system if your RV is set up for direct connection

What you need:

• Fresh water hose (food-grade)
• Connector attachments (for taps of different sizes)
• Water container (like an Aquaroll or jerry can, if not connected directly)

Tip:

Always use clean, food-safe hoses. Never use a hose used for waste or rinsing.

3. Waste Water (Grey Water)

Grey water is waste from sinks and showers—not the toilet.

If your RV has a shower or kitchen sink, you'll need to manage this responsibly.

Campsite options:

• Grey water drain at your pitch (rare in the UK, more common in Europe)
• Drive-over grey water disposal point
• Shared disposal area where you carry waste in a container

What you need:

• A waste water container (like a Wastemaster or similar)
• A hose or pipe to direct water from your outlet
• A sealed container if transporting waste by hand

Tip:

Never dump grey water on the ground. It's not clean and can attract pests.

4. Black Water (Toilet Waste)

This is the least fun—but also the most important if your RV has a toilet.

Black water must be disposed of only at designated chemical disposal points.

What you need:

• A cassette toilet (most RVs and trailer tents have these)
• Eco-friendly toilet fluid (check the site rules—some ban formaldehyde)
• Gloves and disinfectant wipes

Campsite facilities:

• Look for a clearly marked chemical toilet disposal area
• Some sites combine grey and black water drains (check signage)

Tip:

Empty your cassette regularly. Don’t wait until it’s full—you’ll regret it.

Optional Extras (That Make Hookups Easier)

• Water level monitor – tells you when to refill or empty
• Polarity tester – helps check electric hookup wiring abroad
• Surge protector – protects your RV from voltage spikes
• Water pressure regulator – avoids overloading your RV system

Not essential, but nice to have—especially if you travel often or camp for longer stays.

What Do You Actually Need?

If you're camping for a night or two and your setup is simple:

• EHU is useful but optional
• Bring your own water and manage waste manually
• Keep cooking and lighting low-tech

If you're camping for longer or using a motorhome or trailer tent with kitchen/toilet facilities:

• Electric hookup becomes more important
• You’ll want easy access to fresh water and waste disposal

Families or those with young children may prefer full-service pitches—it just makes life easier.

Checklist: Hookup Gear to Pack

✅ Electric hookup cable (with waterproof connector)
✅ RCD or safety breaker
✅ Food-safe water hose
✅ Tap connectors (universal or size-specific)
✅ Water container (clean)
✅ Waste water container (with wheels if possible)
✅ Toilet cassette and eco toilet fluid
✅ Rubber gloves
✅ Level blocks (for uneven pitches)
✅ Bucket or collapsible tub (for rinsing or emergencies)

Hookups Make Camping Comfortable—But Not Complicated

Hookups aren't scary once you know the basics.
They make life easier, especially on longer trips or when you’re travelling with the whole family.

You don’t need every hookup to enjoy a great weekend—but knowing how they work means you’ll be ready for any pitch.

So next time you’re booking, check what’s available, pack the right kit—and enjoy all the little comforts that make your RV feel like home.

Need help choosing a starter hookup kit or want a printable campsite hookup checklist?
Head to camplinq.com for trusted camping guides, gear tips, and real-world advice from campers who’ve been there.