Embarking on an epic road trip in your camper van is a thrilling adventure, and the essentials you’ve got on board can make all the difference. Whether you’re planning the ultimate road trip around the UK, or even travelling abroad in your camper van, there are certain necessities you’ll need to pack to make the most of your trip.
As keen AddVenturers ourselves, we know a thing or two about life on the road. That’s why we’ve decided to share our list of the ultimate camper van essentials, so that you can explore the world in style…
If you’re yet to choose your camper van, but you’re keen to get on the road, it’s important not to rush into things. Choosing a van that’s right for you and any travel companions you may have is key to having a great trip.
That's where bespoke vans come into play. These custom vans are not just vehicles, they transform into your home on wheels. They are your transport, your kitchen, your living room and most importantly, a comfortable space to sleep in each night. Not forgetting that your van also needs to provide safe and secure storage for your belongings. So, we’d strongly recommend taking the time to think about which amenities are must-haves for you and finding a custom camper van that has all of these features.
As experienced roadtrippers with extensive van fit-out experience, our knowledgeable team set out to design campers that were comfortable, secure and easy to drive and park - resulting in our AddVenture Camper Van and Re-Cycle Camper Van. Both of these campers are upcycled using the finest materials, offer secure equipment storage, a comfortable living space and areas to prepare food on-the-go.
First up, sleep. After a long day of exploring, having a comfortable place to rest your head is an essential. So, you’re going to want to make sure you’ve got a duvet, sheets and pillows if your camper van has a bed, or alternatively a sleeping bag if not.
One of the best parts of van life is trying out different recipes on the road. However, the novelty soon wears off if you don’t have all of your home comforts packed. So, to make your camper van a real home away from home, you’ll want to make sure you have all of your favourite kitchen essentials: kettle, mugs, glasses, plates, utensils, a frying pan, additional pots and pans, cleaning products, tea towels, kitchen roll and a chopping board. If your van doesn’t have a kitchen area or a place to warm up food, you will likely also need a portable stove and camping kitchen.
Plus, we’d also recommend planning some meals ahead of time and purchasing what food you can in advance - or even just some store cupboard essentials such as pasta, bread, biscuits and crisps.
Whilst all of this might sound a bit excessive, you can trust us - you don’t want to find yourself eating beans on toast every day for a fortnight, and you don’t want to waste hours of valuable holiday time in supermarkets.
For all the thrillseekers out there, it’s crucial to consider secure storage for your adventure equipment. Whether it's a bike, surfboard, paddleboard, or kayak, keeping them safe and secure is a must. Consider custom vans or bespoke vans like ours that come with built-in storage solutions, perfect for both on-road and overnight security and storage. Our vans not only provide comfort for sleeping, but also ensure your adventure gear is safe with visual deterrents and deadlocks - ensuring that you get the perfect night’s sleep both home and away.
Wondering which of our vans is best for you? Our AddVenture Camper has a designated area to keep various equipment secure but away from your living space, whilst our Re-Cycle Camper is designed specifically for cycling adventures with a slide-out box mechanism to keep up to two bikes safe and dry.
One of the most exhilarating aspects of camper van adventures is the opportunity to create a cosy, personalised home on wheels. This unique aspect of van life allows you to carry the comforting familiarity of your own space wherever you venture. While it's true that some vans, like our spacious camper vans, offer abundant room for living, not all conversion vans for camping may afford the same luxury.
However, this is where your creativity can shine. Think of your camper van as a blank canvas, ready to be painted with your individual tastes and needs. When preparing for your holiday, consider how to best utilise your available space and how you can introduce elements that will enhance your comfort. Simple additions like foldable camping chairs and tables mean that you can enjoy meals outside when the weather is nice, whilst cosy blankets can serve as warming layers during chilly nights or as impromptu picnic mats under a sunny sky.
Don't forget to consider temperature control - a portable heater can safeguard you against unexpected cold weather, while strategically placed lights can create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Entertainment is another key element to consider for those relaxed evenings. Pack a deck of cards or some board games for those friendly competitive sessions with travel companions. A laptop or tablet can serve multiple purposes - from playing your favourite movies to helping you plan your next day's adventure. In essence, van life gives you the freedom to tailor your travel experiences just the way you want them. Customising your camper van for comfort and entertainment can significantly enhance your adventures, making every trip memorable and uniquely yours.
Setting off on a camping trip is undoubtedly an exciting experience. The chance to reconnect with nature, indulge in thrilling activities, and create unforgettable memories is something we all look forward to. While it's easy to get lost in the excitement of packing the camper with essentials for fun and leisure, it's equally crucial to remember the less exciting but fundamental necessities.
Firstly, essential documentation is a must-have for any trip. You will need proof of vehicle insurance, for it will safeguard you against unforeseen circumstances that may occur during your journey. Holiday insurance is also crucial as it offers coverage for potential travel inconveniences or medical emergencies. Your driving licence, travel tickets, and campsite booking documents should be at the top of your checklist too. If your adventure leads you across borders, ensure your passport is ready and valid.
Despite our best efforts, accidents can happen, and having a first aid kit on hand can make all the difference. Fill your kit with plasters and bandages for any cuts or scrapes, painkillers for sudden aches, wipes for quick clean-ups, allergy tablets if you're prone to reactions, insect repellent to keep those pesky bugs at bay, and hand sanitiser to maintain hygiene.
Packing your camper van with these essentials may seem tedious compared to packing your favourite adventure gear or comfy hammock, but their importance cannot be overstated. Safety and preparedness should always be prioritised to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Searching for the perfect camper van for your upcoming trip? Head over to our vans page to find out more!
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