Lockdown is easing this summer and staycations across the UK are selling out fast. In fact, you’ve probably already missed the opportunity to rent a holiday home, if you haven’t already. Campervan holidays are going to be so popular this year (and if you’re a regular reader here, you’ll know why this makes me really excited!).
When going on holiday using a campervan, there are essential things that you may consider inconsequential that you need to pack. These items make your life on the road a whole lot easier. Let us look at some of the essential items that you should always have on a campervan holiday.
Food and Drinks
- Water
- Coffee, hot chocolate, sweetener/sugar, tea bags
- Milk
- Snacks
- Plan for an outdoor barbeque
- Bedding
The type of bedding you carry depends on the size of the campervan. Those with enough space have fixed beds, which means that you can carry a duvet and a pillow. If your campervan is small, carry a sleeping bag as it is easy to store when not in use.
Toiletries
Remember that the campervan bathroom is just enough for cleaning your teeth. Therefore, only carry essential items such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, sanitary towels, deodorant, hairbrush, an all-purpose body cream, and one or two hair products.
Portable Lighting
If you plan to stay or free camp on unpowered sites, you need portable lighting. Although the campervan has good lighting, it is not the same when outside the campervan. This is especially so if you want to spend time or eat dinner outside the van on a balmy summer evening.
The best option for portable lighting is battery-operated lamps as they are less fickle in comparison to gas options and also use limited resources. They are available in a range of styles and prices with both rechargeable and standard options available.
Travel Gadgets
- Tablet for watching TV
- Charging cables for cameras, tablets, and phones
- MiFi to enable you to surf and check your email
- Camera and lenses in different ranges
- A pair of binoculars
- Sat Nav if there is none in the campervan
- Your favourite playlist to play on the campervan’s audio system or via your phone
Foldable Outdoor Furniture
When you get to your campsite and the weather is nice, you can sit outside and enjoy the view. You can do this while sitting on some fold-up furniture set up outside the campervan door and enjoy a quiet summer evening. Ensure you pick one that does not occupy too much space on the campervan.
Campervan Insurance
This is a type of insurance that is customized for campervans. Believe me, you NEED it.
The insurance covers you when parked up and relaxing, and while on the road. It covers you, your vehicle, and your vehicle for theft, accidents, and damages. Campervan insurance like car insurance is a legal obligation. If you would like to purchase one, get campervan insurance quotes here.
Other Basics
- Hot water bottles
- Mosquito repellent
- Baby/wet wipes – can be used for various purposes
- Map
- A book and travel games
- Torch
- Water carriers – you can get collapsible containers or a fizzy drink bottle
If you bring your dog, remember to carry their food and water plus their feeding bowls, harness, dog towels, toys, and dog blanket/bed, not forgetting poo bags. Our dog joined us on a 2 month trip around Europe – you can read more about traveling with a dog in a van here and some FAQ.