Accepting Card Payments in the UK Holiday Market: A Cost-Saving Guide for Campsites & Local Businesses

Campsite Card Payments: Our Guide

The UK holiday market is thriving. With many travellers choosing staycations over trips abroad, campsites, glamping sites, and local hospitality businesses are experiencing a surge in demand. Whether you run a campsite, a holiday park, or a nearby café or shop, offering flexible and reliable card payment options is now essential.

In this guide, we explore the main types of card payment methods used by UK customers, how to choose the right payment setup, and how to reduce your costs, unbiased and free.

Why Card Payments Matter More Than Ever

Consumer behaviour in the UK has shifted. The majority of people now expect to pay by card or mobile wallet—even in rural or remote locations. Recent data shows that over 90% of in-person payments are now contactless, and fewer people are carrying cash, especially while travelling.

For businesses that cater to UK tourists—such as campsites, farm shops, local attractions, and food vendors—offering card payments is no longer just convenient, it’s expected. Not accepting cards can limit sales, reduce impulse purchases, and make your business less competitive.

Card Payment Methods Explained

Understanding how customers prefer to pay helps you provide a seamless payment experience. Here are the most common card payment methods used in the UK:

1. Chip & PIN

• Description: The traditional method where the customer inserts their card and enters a PIN.
• Best for: High-value transactions or where contactless limits are exceeded.
• Security: High—PIN entry helps prevent fraud.
• Use case: Campsite bookings, equipment hire, or bar tabs.

2. Contactless Card Payments

• Description: Customers tap their card on the reader for quick, low-value purchases.
• Best for: Busy checkouts and impulse buys.
• Spending Limit: Typically up to £100 per transaction.
• Use case: Gift shops, cafés, entry tickets, or small purchases.

3. Mobile Wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay)

• Description: Payments made via smartphones or smartwatches.
• Best for: Fast, secure transactions.
• Spending Limit: Often higher than physical contactless cards due to biometric verification.
• Use case: Tech-savvy customers who may not carry cards at all.

4. QR Code Payments

• Description: Customers scan a QR code to pay via a secure online link.
• Best for: Outdoor vendors, parking, or pre-orders.
• Advantages: No card machine required; ideal for remote setups.

5. Virtual Terminals

• Description: Payments taken remotely, by phone or online entry.
• Best for: Handling deposits, bookings, or add-on services.
• Use case: Campsite reservations or phone orders for local delivery.

How to Save Money on Card Payment Fees

Accepting card payments comes with associated costs, but there are practical steps you can take to keep them under control.

1. Understand the Fee Structure

Most payment costs include:

• Interchange fees (set by Visa, Mastercard, etc.)
• Processing/acquiring fees
• Monthly service or rental fees
  Some businesses also face minimum monthly charges or penalties for low volume—so be clear on all charges.

2. Negotiate Rates Based on Turnover

High-volume or seasonal businesses can often negotiate lower rates. If you're processing thousands of pounds per week during peak periods, it may justify custom pricing that reflects your turnover.

3. Avoid Hidden Charges

Watch out for:

• Early termination fees
• Settlement delays
• PCI compliance surcharges
• Additional costs for faster payouts
  Reading the full terms before signing a contract can help avoid unpleasant surprises.

4. Choose the Right Payment Device

Businesses located in rural or off-grid areas should prioritise card machines that:

• Connect via 4G, GPRS, or Wi-Fi
• Automatically switch to the strongest available signal
• Are portable or mobile for flexible use
  Connectivity issues are one of the most common causes of failed payments in tourism settings.

5. Look Into Integration Options

If you’re running a booking system, POS, or inventory software, integrated payment solutions can reduce admin, eliminate manual entry errors, and save time. Some systems offer discounts on processing fees when integrated with specific gateways.

6. Consider Faster Settlement Options

Some acquirers offer instant or same-day payouts, helping to keep your cash flow healthy. Be mindful of any extra costs associated with this service and weigh it against your business needs.

Why It Pays to Offer Multiple Payment Methods

Staycationers include everyone from young families and digital-first consumers to older generations exploring the countryside. Offering a wide range of payment options helps ensure every customer can pay in their preferred way. It also:

• Increases average spend (mobile payments users tend to spend more)
• Reduces checkout friction
• Builds trust and convenience

Whether you're selling ice cream by the lake or handling campsite bookings for the school holidays, flexibility at the point of payment is a key driver of sales and satisfaction.

Wrapping It Up

The rise of the UK holiday market presents a valuable opportunity for small and medium businesses. By accepting modern card payment methods and keeping transaction costs under control, you can turn passing trade into long-term customers.

If you’re unsure where to begin, start by reviewing how and where your customers make purchases, then match your card payment setup accordingly. Avoid rushing into contracts, and always seek transparent pricing that fits your trading pattern.

At Merchant Advice Service, we provide impartial guidance to UK businesses looking to navigate the world of payments. We’re not tied to any provider, and we don’t charge for our service. Whether you’re searching for lower card processing fees, more reliable hardware, or a solution that fits your niche, we’re here to help you make informed, cost-effective decisions.