If you want to travel on your own schedule, explore paths less frequently trodden and save money on food and accommodation, chances are, you’ve looked into purchasing a campervan.
Whether you’re a current van lifer looking for tips for travel, or you’re trying to decide if a campervan is right for you, we’re here to share our guide for getting a good night’s rest in a campervan.
First up, the benefits of campervan travel. Those unfamiliar with the world of sleeping in a camper might feel unsure about trying it - but we think that the numerous benefits that come with van travel make it extremely enjoyable. It’s why so many of us get hooked on van camping!
Campervan travel offers incredible freedom and flexibility, allowing you to explore nature at your own pace. One of the biggest benefits of van camping is knowing that wherever you go, your comfortable home on wheels is always with you. If you’ve got a van with plenty of storage, you can bring home comforts with you to make your trip even better.
Whether you’re into cycling, walking or open water swimming, your camper provides a cosy and familiar place to relax after a long day of adventure. Unlike traditional travel, you aren’t tied to transport times or hotel check-ins, so you can enjoy exploring at your own pace.
One of the biggest advantages to van camping is that you can wake up with beautiful views, can move when you’re ready to, and discover hidden gems that you might’ve missed otherwise. This type of travel brings you closer to nature, while still offering the comforts of home like a bed, kitchen, and space to unwind.
If you’ve never stayed in a camper before, you might be feeling quite unsure about how comfortable sleeping in one is. But the truth is, sleeping in a campervan can be very comfortable, especially if you’re well-prepared!
Many van lifers take extreme pride in making their camper their home on wheels with cosy beds, living spaces and home comforts like soft blankets and pillows. Vans that are custom-built for people to sleep in typically come with beds or sleeping platforms, meaning that van camping is very similar to sleeping in a small bedroom. A quality custom campervan will have good insulation, soft bedding and ventilation, offering a restful experience even in small van conversions.
It’s important to note that comfort can vary depending on the van setup, the climate and the quality of your sleeping gear. For optimal comfort whilst van camping, you will want to invest in a good mattress, pillows and warm blankets.
If your campervan is well-maintained and tailored for van camping, you will likely find it a great way to explore nature whilst still having the essentials on hand for a good night’s sleep.
It’s for this reason that we recommend choosing a van that is suitable for sleeping in, with ample storage, a bed and a proper living space, such as our AddVenture Camper.
Making sure that your campervan is a cosy space for sleeping and relaxing is key to making the most of your time on the road. To be suitable to sleep in, your van should have a comfortable bed, a decent mattress, good ventilation and a duvet and pillows. Ensuring that you have a comfortable place to sleep will vastly improve your travel experience - so customise your camper with blankets and pillows to create a homey feel.
Temperature control is another way to stay comfortable both parked up and on the road. Make sure to insulate your camper so that it keeps cool in the summer and warm during the colder months. Installing window covers or curtains will help to regulate the temperature, and also keep your van private and block out light when you’re trying to sleep.
Planning on camping in cooler climates? Consider adding a portable heater and extra blankets - and don’t forget to pack layers! During hotter seasons, fans and ventilation systems are your best friend.
A major perk of having your own custom campervan is that you can make it a really relaxing space by putting your own stamp on the interior design. Ambience can play a big role in making your van a relaxing space to sleep in. Choose soft, dimmable lighting for evenings, and keep your space organised with easy-to-access storage solutions, with all your essentials close to hand.
You can also add personal touches like rugs, cushions and even decorations to make your van feel like home. Vans with a living area separate from the sleep space are also ideal for longer trips, as this means you have a different place to eat and relax before going to bed.
Getting a good night’s sleep in a campervan requires a bit of planning and the right setup. However, once you’ve got your perfect sleep space set up, then you’re sorted for all future trips to come.
As we mentioned previously, this includes a mattress or sleeping pad that fits in your van’s layout, as well as quality bedding and supportive pillows. Having a van with good insulation will also make getting a good night’s sleep much easier, whilst ventilation will prevent the air from getting stuffy. This is especially important during warmer months.
A darker space makes for a more restful sleep, so you will need to block out any light with curtains or window covers, as many campsites tend to be quite well-lit for safety purposes. The same goes for noise - soundproofing or using earplugs will minimise external noise, especially on popular sites during busy months.
Setting up your space to feel organised and clutter-free will also help you to feel more relaxed. Utilise smart storage solutions to keep your belongings out of the way whilst you unwind.
Are you searching for the perfect campervan for your travels? Check out our AddVenture Camper today! Complete with a bed, living space, kitchen and bathroom, our easy-to-drive campervan conversion is ideal for van lifers both new and experienced.
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