EV Charging Etiquette: Your Essential Guide for Hotel Stays 2024

Tuesday, 26 August 2025•4 min read

EV Charging Etiquette: A Complete Guide for the Considerate Driver

As more drivers make the switch to electric vehicles, understanding proper charging etiquette becomes increasingly important. Whether you're staying at a charming location like the Thatched Cottage in Brockenhurst or exploring the New Forest near Lime Wood Hotel, following these guidelines ensures a positive experience for all EV drivers.

Essential Charging Etiquette Tips

1. Move Your Car Once Charged

Once your vehicle reaches its desired charge level, promptly move it to free up the charging space for others. For example, when staying at boutique locations like Daisybank Cottage, where slow chargers are provided, plan your charging schedule to avoid occupying the space longer than necessary.

2. Don't Unplug Other Vehicles

It's never acceptable to unplug another vehicle, even if it appears fully charged. The only exception is when there's a clearly displayed note from the owner permitting this. At smaller venues like Jireh House, where charging facilities might be limited, communication with other guests is key.

3. Keep the Charging Area Tidy

Maintain the charging area's cleanliness and keep cables neatly coiled when not in use. This is particularly important at holiday destinations like Shorefield Country Park, where multiple guests may need to access the charging facilities.

4. Communicate Your Intentions

If staying at properties like Forest Side Guesthouse, inform the staff about your charging needs upon arrival. Many accommodations appreciate advance notice to help coordinate charging schedules among guests.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

ICEing and Cable Hogging

Never park a non-charging vehicle (ICE or EV) in a charging space. At busy locations like Green Hill Farm Holiday Village, this can cause significant inconvenience to other guests needing to charge.

Charging Beyond Need

Don't charge to 100% unless absolutely necessary for your journey. Most modern EVs perform optimally when charged between 20% and 80%, and hogging a charger for that final 20% can inconvenience others.

Poor Cable Management

Avoid leaving cables strewn across walkways. At eco-conscious venues like Cottage Lodge Hotel, maintaining safe and tidy charging areas aligns with their environmental ethos.

Expert Recommendations

Plan Your Charging

Book accommodations with suitable charging facilities in advance
Use apps to locate backup charging options nearby
Consider charge timing to avoid peak usage periods
Communicate with staff about charging availability and policies

Leave a note with your contact details if charging overnight
Be willing to share charging schedules with other guests
Thank staff and report any issues promptly
Consider fellow guests' needs, especially at smaller properties

Special Considerations for Different Charger Types

Slow Chargers

Many of our listed properties, like Lime Wood Hotel, offer slow charging options. These typically require longer charging times, so:

Plan for overnight charging
Be prepared to move your vehicle first thing in the morning
Communicate with other guests about charging schedules

Public Rapid Chargers

When using public rapid chargers near your accommodation:

Don't leave your car at a rapid charger once charging is complete
Be mindful that others may be waiting
Consider using slower chargers for overnight stays

Conclusion

Good charging etiquette is essential for the EV community. Whether you're staying at a boutique B&B or a larger holiday park, following these guidelines ensures everyone can access the charging facilities they need. Remember, the EV community thrives on mutual respect and consideration.

Looking to book your next EV-friendly stay? Browse our curated selection of properties on EVFriendlyStays, where you can filter accommodations based on charging availability and type. From the charming Thatched Cottage in Brockenhurst to the luxurious Lime Wood Hotel, we've got options to suit every traveller's needs.

Planning your next EV adventure? Book through EVFriendlyStays to ensure you'll have access to charging facilities during your stay. Our detailed property listings include charging specifications and availability, making your trip planning easier than ever.*