11 Essential Tips for Planning Your Dream Campervan Trip
11 Essential Tips for Planning Your Dream Campervan Trip
- Pick the Right Van: Your Home Away From Home
Choosing the right campervan is like picking the perfect pair of shoes for a long hike - get it wrong, and you're in for a world of discomfort! Here's what you need to think about:
How many people are coming? Make sure everyone has a comfy place to sleep.
What's your stuff situation? You don't want to feel like a sardine in a tin!
Bathroom or no bathroom? Some folks can't live without one, others don't mind using campsite facilities.
Kitchen setup? If you're a foodie, you might want more than just a camping stove.
Remember, bigger isn't always better. A huge RV might seem awesome, but it can be a pain to drive and park. On the flip side, a tiny van might leave you feeling cramped after a few days. Find your Goldilocks van - not too big, not too small, but just right!
- Plan Your Route (But Leave Room for Surprises!)
Planning your route is like writing the outline of an amazing story - you want to know where you're going, but leave room for some plot twists! Here's how to do it:
- Pick your must-see spots. These are your non-negotiables.
- Figure out how long it'll take to drive between them.
- Add in some buffer days for unexpected adventures.
- Use a map app for directions, BUT...
- Keep a paper map as backup. Trust me, when your phone dies in the middle of nowhere, you'll thank me!
And hey, if you see a sign for the "World's Largest Ball of Twine" and it's only a little detour? Go for it! Sometimes the best memories come from those unplanned stops.
- Pack Smart: Less is More!
Packing for a campervan trip is like playing Tetris in real life. You want to fit in everything you need without turning your van into a jumbled mess. Here's a quick checklist:
- Clothes (think layers!)
- Bedding
- Kitchen essentials
- First aid kit
- Tool kit
- Entertainment (books, games, etc.)
- Toiletries
Pro tip: Use packing cubes or vacuum bags to save space. And remember, you can always do laundry on the road with a Scrubba wash bag for free! Packing a Scrubba bag is also a great way to minimise clothing requirements on board.
- Get to Know Your Van: Become Best Buddies
Before you hit the road, spend some quality time with your van. Learn its quirks and features like you're getting to know a new friend. Here's what you need to figure out:
- How do all the systems work? (Water, electricity, gas)
- Where are the important things stored? (Tools, spare tire, fuse box)
- How do you empty the toilet and fill up the water tank?
- What's the best way to set up and pack away your bed?
Take it for a test drive around your neighborhood. Practice parking, backing up, and turning. It's better to bump a curb near home than in a packed campsite!
- Campsite Strategy: Book Ahead (Sometimes)
Campsites can fill up faster than front-row tickets to your favorite band. But you also don't want to be tied down to a strict schedule. So what's the solution?
- Book ahead for popular spots or during peak season.
- Leave some nights open for spontaneous adventures.
- Use apps like Campendium or iOverlander to find last-minute spots.
- Always have a backup plan. Sometimes that perfect beach campsite turns out to be... not so perfect.
Remember, a reservation is like an insurance policy for your peace of mind!
- Entertainment on the Go: Beat the Boredom Blues
Long drives can get boring. Like, watching-paint-dry boring. So come prepared:
- Make awesome playlists. Road trip singalongs are a must!
- Download audiobooks or podcasts. Learn something new while you drive!
- Bring some travel-friendly games. Card games are great for campsite evenings.
- Don't forget a good old-fashioned book. Perfect for lazy afternoons in nature.
And hey, sometimes the best entertainment is just chatting with your travel buddies or enjoying the scenery. Take time to unplug and soak it all in!
- Meal Planning: Fuel Your Adventure
Food is fuel, and you need good fuel for your big adventure! Here's how to eat well on the road:
- Plan some easy, one-pot meals. Think pasta, stir-fries, or hearty stews.
- Stock up on non-perishables. Canned goods, dried fruits, and nuts are your friends.
- Bring a cooler for fresh stuff. Nothing beats a cold drink on a hot day!
- Don't forget snacks for the road. Trail mix, anyone?
- Treat yourself to local specialties. Part of the fun is trying new things!
Remember, cooking in a campervan is an adventure in itself. Embrace the challenge and get creative!
- Stay Safe: Because Adventures Should Be Fun, Not Scary
Safety might not be the most exciting topic, but it's super important. Here's your safety checklist:
- Get your van checked before you leave. Breakdowns are no fun!
- Pack a good first aid kit. And know how to use it!
- Tell someone your rough plans. Just in case.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Trust your gut if something feels off.
- Know basic van maintenance. Changing a tire is a valuable skill!
Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in keeping your trip awesome and worry-free.
- Campsite Etiquette: Don't Be That Guy
Being a good camper is like being a good neighbor, just in nature! Follow these golden rules:
- Leave No Trace. Pack it in, pack it out. Leave your spot better than you found it.
- Respect quiet hours. Not everyone wants to hear your midnight karaoke session.
- Be friendly, but respect others' space. Some folks come to nature for solitude.
- Follow fire rules. Smokey the Bear is counting on you!
- Be mindful of wildlife. Don't feed the animals, no matter how cute they are.
Remember, we're all out here to enjoy nature. Let's keep it nice for everyone!
- Embrace the Adventure: Roll with the Punches
Here's the thing about campervan trips - stuff will go wrong. You might get lost. It might rain for days. You might run out of your favorite coffee. But guess what? IT'S ALL PART OF THE ADVENTURE!
- Stay flexible. Plans change, and that's okay.
- Keep a positive attitude. A rainy day is a chance to get cozy in your van!
- Laugh at the mishaps. They'll make great stories later.
- Take lots of photos. Even (especially!) of the not-so-perfect moments.
Remember, it's not about the destination, it's about the journey. And what a journey it'll be!
- Renting Smart: Your Ticket to Van Life
Not ready to commit to buying a campervan? No worries! Renting is a great way to dip your toes into the van life pond. Here's how to rent smart:
- Shop around. Use a comparison portal for camper rental to find the best deals.
- Read the fine print. Know what's included and what's not.
- Check the insurance. Make sure you're covered for all scenarios.
- Inspect the van before you leave. Document any existing damage.
- Ask about roadside assistance. You don't want to be stuck if something goes wrong.
- Consider the season. Rates can vary a lot depending on when you rent.
- Book early for peak times. The best vans go fast!
Renting gives you the freedom to try different types of vans. Maybe you'll fall in love with a vintage VW bus, or maybe you'll discover you're more of a modern RV person. It's all part of the journey!
So there you have it, future road warrior! These 11 tips will help you plan an amazing campervan adventure. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and make memories. The open road is calling - are you ready to answer?
Happy travels!
Guest Post by Corinne Puglisi @ Campstar