Pitch fit checker
The calculator needs JavaScript. The worked example, sum and figures below show exactly how it works, so you can do it yourself. A guide, not advice.
Short answer
Enter the pitch dimensions stated by the campsite and the full footprint of your tent and kit, including guy lines. The checker adds your chosen clearance at each edge and tests both orientations. Campsites define their boundaries differently, so confirm what must fit inside the pitch before booking.
Worked example
| You enter | Value |
|---|---|
| Pitch length from the site's listing | 10 m |
| Pitch width from the site's listing | 8 m |
| Your set-up length, including guy lines | 7 m |
| Your set-up width, including guy lines | 5 m |
| Extra clearance to leave at each edge | 0.5 m |
The dimensions fit in at least one orientation.
| Result | Value |
|---|---|
| Stated pitch area | 80 m² (861 ft²) |
| Set-up area with clearance | 48 m² (517 ft²) |
| Dimension check | The dimensions fit in at least one orientation. |
Show the working
- Pitch: 10 m (32 ft 10 in) × 8 m (26 ft 3 in) = 80.00 m²
- Set-up with clearance: (7 + 2 × 0.5) × (5 + 2 × 0.5) = 8.00 × 6.00 m
- Fit: straight yes; rotated yes
How it works
- Pitch area = pitch length × pitch width
- Set-up dimensions = your tent, awning and other kit dimensions + clearance on both sides
- Compare set-up dimensions with the pitch in both orientations
Campsites define pitch boundaries and included items differently. Check whether awnings, guy lines, cars and windbreaks must fit within the stated dimensions.
A dimensional match does not confirm that a site will accept your equipment or pitch layout. Ask the campsite if the listing is unclear.
Our figures (adjustable)
These are our planning allowances and, once checked, typical figures with their sources. They aren't facts about your kit: change any of them in the calculator.
This calculator has no built-in defaults: every figure comes from you or your kit's own label.
What to buy
Shopping links will appear here once our retailer partners are confirmed. We don't rank kit by testing it: see our spec-based kit guides.
FAQs
Should I include the guy lines?
Yes. Measure the full space your pitched tent uses, including guy lines, and add an awning, windbreak or vehicle if the campsite requires them inside the pitch.
Does a match guarantee my pitch will be accepted?
No. Sites can set their own rules and boundaries. Ask the campsite if its dimensions or equipment requirements are unclear.
Guides that use it
How to choose a campsite
How to choose a campsite: calm, practical help for UK families and first-timers, from the Canvasdale team.
Tent pitch sizes explained
How UK campsite pitch sizes work, what they include, and what to check with the site about guy lines, awnings and parking before you book.