Think electric scooters are just for city kids or buzzing about town? Think again. Out on the campsite, especially here in the UK where the rain’s always got backup, having a zippy little e-scooter can be a total game changer.
I’ve pitched up in enough places, from misty glens to muddy festival fields, to know the pain of trekking to the loo block in wet socks. Not fun.
But here’s the good part: get yourself a solid electric scooter, and suddenly the loo run, the shop dash, or the “I forgot the matches again” trip becomes… actually enjoyable. I have put up this guide to help you avoid the faff and pick a scooter that actually makes your camping trips smoother.
What Really Matters for Camp Scooters?
Forget what the hipsters say online – most e-scooter lists never leave the pavement. Camping is a messier business. Here’s what actually counts:
Weight & Portability: Trust me, carrying a 20kg lump across a boggy field is pure pain (been there, done that, regretted it). Aim under 15kg if you’ll be moving the scooter a lot. Heavier models make sense if you leave them parked.
Waterproof Rating: The UK forecast is a lottery – rain is basically guaranteed. Look for proper IP ratings like IP54 or better, not just “splash-proof.” Your scooter needs to handle puddles, drizzle, and the odd sideways downpour.
Range: On sprawling campsites, or if you do a loop out to the shop and back, you want at least 12-15 miles. Anything less and you’ll end up walking home.
Charging Options: Most UK campsites only have a handful of sockets in the shower block, or none at all. Detachable batteries are a godsend, letting you charge in your tent or van. Fast charging (2-3 hours) beats waiting through half a rainstorm.
I once tried a scooter with a fixed battery and no rain protection on a sodden Dartmoor night. It died halfway to the tap. My mate still mocks me for it. Don’t be that person.
Quick Comparison – Best Electric Scooters for UK Campsites
Riley RS1
Motor Power: 350W (700W peak)
Weight: 13kg
Range: ~15 miles
Waterproof Rating: Not stated (built for UK weather)
Tyres: 10″ tubeless
Charging Time: 2 hours
Key Features: Detachable battery, fold-down handlebars, regenerative + hydraulic disc + stomp brake
Xiaomi Pro 2
Motor Power: 300W
Weight: 14.2kg
Range: Up to 28 miles
Waterproof Rating: IP54
Tyres: 8.5″ pneumatic
Charging Time: 8.5 hours
Key Features: App control, bright LEDs all around, mechanical disc + E-ABS brakes
E365 Electric Scooter
Motor Power: 350W
Weight: 13kg
Range: 15–20 miles
Waterproof Rating: IP65
Tyres: 8.5″ solid
Charging Time: Not specified
Key Features: Waterproof design, app control, e-brake + disc brake
Kugoo Kirin S1
Motor Power: 350W
Weight: 11.9kg
Range: ~15 miles
Waterproof Rating: None
Tyres: 8″ honeycomb solid
Charging Time: Not specified
Key Features: Budget-friendly, app with cruise control, front suspension
FlyRide Hawk
Motor Power: 250W
Weight: 12.5kg
Range: ~15 miles
Waterproof Rating: Not stated
Tyres: 8.5″ pneumatic
Charging Time: 2 hours
Key Features: Stylish, fast charging, app control, quick fold
Riley RS1 – The Best All-Round Buy for Campers
Let’s start with my top pick – the Riley RS1. This scooter isn’t just a pretty face. It’s a brilliant bit of kit from a British brand that actually understands British weather. I’ve taken this one on a few trips now, and I’ll say this it’s the kind of scooter that just makes life around camp easier.
At 13kg, it’s light enough to lug from the boot to the tent without pulling a muscle. And the fold-down handlebars? They’re not just for show. They lock into the back wheel and give you a handy carry handle. No awkward scooter flopping around like a stubborn fish.
But here’s where the RS1 really wins – the detachable battery. This little genius move means you can pop the battery out and charge it inside your tent or camper. No need to haul the whole scooter into a cramped space or run extension leads across the pitch. And it charges in just 2 hours, which is rapid compared to most scooters.
It’s powered by a punchy 350W motor that kicks up to 700W when needed – enough for hills up to a 12% incline. Not mountain goat territory, but more than enough for most campsite paths. You also get regenerative braking, so every slowdown helps top up your battery. Smart stuff.
Ride-wise? Smooth as you like. The 10-inch tubeless tyres eat up gravel and dodgy field bumps without drama. And you don’t need to worry too much about punctures either (which, trust me, is a massive relief). For stopping, you’ve got a solid combo: regenerative braking, a hydraulic rear disc brake, and even a stomp brake over the mudguard if things get hairy.
As for visibility, the built-in LED lights front and back are brilliant for being seen—but bring a head torch if you actually want to see. Still, props to Riley for making lights standard.
Xiaomi Pro 2 – For Those Who Want Serious Range
If you’re the kind of camper who doesn’t stop at the site café and wants to cruise into town, over fields, and back again twice, then the Xiaomi Pro 2 might be your match.
This thing’s a range monster. With a massive 13Ah battery, you’re looking at up to 28 miles on a full charge. That’s more than enough for a full day’s adventure, even with a few wrong turns and a detour to the nearest chippy.
It’s heavier than the Riley (14.2kg), but still manageable if you’re not hiking with it. Folding it down is quick and easy – clip the handlebars onto the rear mudguard and lift. Though, fair warning: it’s not the comfiest thing to carry for long stretches.
The 300W motor is decent and gives you plenty of zip. I’ve ridden it on gravel tracks and slightly hilly terrain, and it didn’t flinch. The 8.5-inch tyres aren’t bad – they’ve improved their grip over the older model, but I do miss the comfort of larger wheels like the RS1 has.
Braking is solid. You get mechanical rear disc brakes paired with E-ABS regenerative braking, which slows you down smoothly and helps stretch that already impressive range just a bit further.
Lighting? Now this is where Xiaomi absolutely nails it. You’ve got a bright LED setup front, rear, and sides, which honestly feels like riding a little Christmas tree (in a good way). Visibility is brilliant, especially if you’re scooting back to camp late.
One more handy feature: the Xiaomi smartphone app. You can check your speed, battery status, and even remotely lock the motor, which is a nice theft deterrent (though someone could still lift it and leg it).
Charging the beast does take a while – about 8.5 hours – so this one’s best for overnight plug-ins.
E365 Electric Scooter – Your Wet-Weather Warrior
Let’s be honest – British campsites and rain go hand in hand like wellies and mud. So when I first heard the E365 Electric Scooter was built to handle serious splashes, I had to try it.
This scooter is built with IP65 waterproofing, which basically means it can take on puddles, soggy ground, and even a bit of jet spray without blinking. Now, I didn’t chuck a hose at it for fun, but during a damp morning ride around the site, it didn’t flinch. That’s a massive tick in my book.
Power-wise, it’s got a solid 350W motor with a bit of extra juice thanks to its 42V battery system, which is slightly more voltage than your typical 36V setup. This gives it decent pull on flatter paths and even moderate hills, and you’ll get around 15-20 miles of range, depending on how much tea and toast you’ve had.
It folds down easily, weighs around 13kg, and fits in the car boot without a wrestle. But yeah, you’ll feel those 13 kilos if you're carrying it more than a couple of minutes. The tyres are solid 8.5-inchers, so no worries about punctures – though they don’t give much in terms of suspension. Ride-wise, it's firm, but fair.
Braking? You’ve got a decent e-brake on the front wheel and a rear disc brake. Not bad for control even in wet conditions. The LED lights are good too – nothing blinding, but they do the job when dusk sneaks up on you.
And here’s a little bonus: there’s a smartphone app that pairs nicely with it, showing ride stats and letting you keep tabs on performance.
Kugoo Kirin S1 – Best Value for Campers on a Budget
Alright, let’s talk about the Kugoo Kirin S1 – or as I like to call it, the little underdog that punches way above its weight.
At just £229-ish, this scooter shouldn’t be this good. But here we are. It’s got a 350W motor, a 15-mile range, LED lights, a smartphone app, and even front suspension. I’ve ridden scooters double the price that didn’t pack this much in.
Sure, it’s not going to win any style awards. Out of the box, it looks a bit… plasticky. The orange wheels scream “budget”, and the 8-inch solid tyres feel firm. But hey, at this price, function wins over flair. And once you’re moving, you honestly stop caring how it looks.
Now, the ride quality? Surprisingly decent. The tyres have a honeycomb design that softens the feel without the risk of punctures. And that front suspension spring? Bit squeaky, but it does the trick. I took it around Kingsbury Water Park and it held its own—even over gravel paths and campsite lumps.
Braking is electronic, which takes a bit of getting used to. It slows you nicely, but don’t expect it to stop you dead on a steep hill. That’s where the manual rear mudguard brake comes in – good backup if needed.
The smartphone app is a nice touch too. It lets you lock the motor, track your stats, set cruise control, and even plan routes. Not bad for the cheapest scooter on this list.
Now, the catch: it’s not waterproof. So if you’re planning on zipping about during a drizzle or post-shower dash to the toilets, it might not be the best pick. But if you’re a fair-weather rider? Bargain of the year.
FlyRide Hawk – Fast Charging, Slick Looks
Alright, if scooters were judged on looks alone, the FlyRide Hawk would be strutting down a campsite runway. Available in a clean white or stealthy black finish, with a few well-placed orange touches, it’s hands down the best-looking scooter on this list. It just oozes cool. Even the brake cables match. And let’s face it, sometimes we do care what we look like riding to the toilet block.
Looks aside, the Hawk is no slouch when it comes to performance. It’s powered by a 250W motor, which might sound a bit tame on paper. But I’ve ridden a fair few 350W scooters, and honestly? The Hawk keeps up just fine. Acceleration is zippy, especially on flat ground, and it climbs gentle hills with confidence. Definitely not one to write off based on numbers alone.
What really impressed me is the charging speed. From dead flat to full juice in about two hours. That’s a game changer if you're camping and don’t fancy waiting all day to get moving again. It’s ideal for the kind of day where you ride out in the morning, stop for a sandwich, and want another go in the afternoon.
The battery gives you around 15 miles of range, which should cover most campsite adventures and quick dashes into the local village. And thanks to the air-filled 8.5-inch tyres, the ride is smooth and comfy, even on gravel paths. Just be warned: they’ve got inner tubes, and a puncture will ruin your fun unless you’re handy with tyre levers. If you grab the Hawk, do yourself a favour and add some tyre sealant (a.k.a. innertube slime) before your trip.
Folding it up takes about three seconds flat – no kidding. The folded size is compact enough for your car or campervan boot. And it only weighs around 12.5kg, so it’s easy enough to lug about when needed.
You also get a smartphone app that syncs with the scooter. It’s neat for checking battery, speed, and distance stats, plus it lets you lock the scooter remotely. The handlebar display is bright and simple to use, showing all the basics and giving you one-button access to the front/rear LED lights. Handy for navigating those dusky campsite paths. Oh – and there’s a bell. Can’t forget the bell.
My only real gripe? There’s no clear info on waterproofing. I didn’t ride it in heavy rain, so I can’t vouch for its durability in a downpour. If you're a fair-weather camper, no worries. If not, it might be worth checking with the brand before trusting it in soggy weather.
Practical Tips for Using Scooters on Campsites
- Storage: Always store your scooter under cover at night – tent awnings or inside your camper do the job. Even waterproof scooters last longer if they’re kept dry when not in use.
- Charging: Most sites won’t let you snake charging leads across the grass. Look for models with removable batteries (like the Riley RS1), so you can charge inside.
- Weather Protection: Bring a dry bag or plastic bin liner just in case a sudden downpour catches you out before you can stash your scooter.
- Terrain Matters: Solid tyres mean less puncture risk but a rougher ride on gravel. If you think you’ll travel off the tarmac, look for models with air-filled tyres or front suspension.
- Midge-Proofing: Nothing worse than stopping to fix a loose cable and getting eaten alive. Pack insect repellent, especially north of the M62.
I learned this the hard way: pack a spare charger if you’re staying more than a couple of days. They’re small, and I once fried one in a dodgy site socket.
Legal Notes: Be Smart, Stay Legal
Here's the part everyone skips… until they get a telling-off. In the UK, private use of e-scooters is fine, but riding on public roads or pavements remains illegal unless you’re on an official trial. Most campsites count as private land, but always ask first. Some big brands will say no to scooters near tents.
Keep speeds sensible; 15.5mph is the typical limit. Wear a helmet – it’s just common sense, especially on gravel or muddy grass. And never, ever try to scoot after “just one more pint” – I’ve seen the bruises.
If in doubt, check the site’s rules or ask at reception. Always better than getting the “you should know better” look from a warden.
Which Scooter Is Best for You?
Camping is about enjoying the outdoors, not fighting your kit. If you want the most fuss-free option, go for the Riley RS1. It covers wet weather and easy charging; it's light and reliable. If you need serious mileage, the Xiaomi Pro 2 will get you out to the pub and back, even with a detour.
For rain resilience, the E365 is your wet-weather mate. Want the best deal? The Kugoo Kirin S1 is unbeatable if you stick to dry days. Fancy some style and rapid charging? Try the FlyRide Hawk.
Look for a scooter that suits your camp style. Think about how far you’ll go, how wild the UK weather can be, and whether you’re packing a car or just a rucksack. Choose well, and you’ll avoid the most common mistake – ending up back on foot, cursing your gear while your mate zips past laughing.
If you want more honest kit reviews, tips, or campsite tales, keep an eye on this blog, because I’ve probably already made the mistake you’re about to make, and I’d rather you learned the easy way.
Safe travels and happy scooting!
