If hitting the road in a campervan is something on your bucket list, you’re not alone!
Photo by Kevin Schmid on UnsplashCampervans have become a popular way for people to travel, and for good reason. They offer freedom, flexibility, and some incredible adventures. Whether renting your first campervan or planning a longer trip, it helps to know what to expect. From packing smart to finding the best spots to stay, this guide will help you get started and make your first vanlife road trip great.
Do you need to rent or buy?
The first question we would encourage you to answer is whether you need a campervan to live in indefinitely or simply want to take a few weeks off work to explore. If you’re planning to take a short holiday and travel around San Francisco or other areas of the US with a campervan, renting is probably your best option, as it will work out cheaper for you.
However, if you plan to take a few months off, or even over a year to explore, you may find it more affordable to buy a ready-made campervan or build one yourself. Either way, the duration of your road trip will play a significant role in the campervan you choose.
Choosing your camper van
When it comes to actually choosing your campervan from a rental agency, you want to consider the specifications you need in it. Nowadays, campervans range from basic to luxury, so you need to consider what suits your budget. A smaller camper van is easier to drive, park, and maintain, and it’ll still give you that freedom you’re craving.
Look at the layout, storage space, and what’s included. Do you want a kitchen setup? A toilet or a shower? A pop-top roof for extra space? If you’re renting, check what’s provided; some vans come with cookware, bedding, and camping gear, while others are pretty barebones. And if you’re planning to travel with a pet or partner, space matters more than you think. A van that feels roomy when you first get in can start to feel tight after a few days on the road.
Driving your first camper van
When you hop into the driver’s seat, it may take a little getting used to, especially if it’s your first time driving a big car. So, it’s okay to be cautious, take it slow, and focus on how the car handles. Remember, vans are bigger, so you may need to take corners wider to avoid cutting the curve, but it’s easy enough once you get used to it.
Packing for the trip
Packing is always a difficult topic because we all have different ideas of what’s needed and what’s not. When it comes to packing your campervan, you will have limited space, so overpacking really isn’t an option for you, especially if you’re travelling with other people in the van. Bring the extras that you feel are necessary, but when it comes to the essentials, this is what you should have on your list:
- Plenty of water (you’ll use more than you think)
- Bedding or sleeping bags
- Basic cooking gear and reusable dishes
- Headlamps and lanterns
- A small first aid kit
- Reusable towels
- Campsite chairs or hammocks
Clothes are a necessity that we’re pretty sure you won’t forget. When packing your clothes, think about the season and check the weather forecast too. It may help to have something for when the weather is hot and cold.
Bathroom and hygiene tips
This is the fun side of vanlife! Unless your van has a toilet, you’ll need to get comfortable with “natural” bathroom breaks. Many vanlifers skip the onboard toilet to save space and avoid the, well, unpleasant cleanup that comes with it. This is easy enough to get around with some good planning.
There are many campsites or RV parks that you can visit that have decent facilities that you can use to wash up. But, when you’re on route, you may want to have some water, baby wipes, rinse-free soap, or even a DIY outdoor shower if needed.
Finding a campsite
One of the best parts of campervanning is that you get to park off in the middle of nature and wake up to its splendor. If you’re up for rustic camping, look for BLM (Bureau of Land Management) or national forest land, also known as dispersed campgrounds; these spots are often free and give you incredible views without the crowds.
If you want more luxuries, there are tons of campsites and RV parks throughout the country. You will have to pay to use them, though. Check out apps like iOverlander, Campendium, or HipCamp to make finding places to stay easier.
Where to rent a campervan
Feeling the urge to plan a van trip? If you’re looking for a campervan for your trip, compare San Francisco campervan rental choices at Travellers Autobarn. Autobarn can make it easy to find a van that fits your budget and travel needs, and they have hubs along the West Coast, so you can plan your trip from one place to another or do a loop, helping you plot out a convenient road trip route already.
Your first van life trip is all about learning as you go. Don’t stress too much about getting everything perfect; just take it one day at a time. The road has a way of teaching you what you need. You’ll figure out your routine, find favourite campsites, and collect stories that stick with you long after you’re home. Keep it simple, stay flexible, and enjoy the freedom of life on the road.
