When you’re going on a road trip or an adventurous camping trip, what kind of gear do you need to bring? Do you just pack your bags and go or do you have to plan every little detail? Camping in a campervan is one of the most exciting ways to enjoy your next road trip. Add the element of adventure by renting a camper and exploring new destinations. The great thing about this type of vehicle is that it allows you to sleep in it and not worry about hotels or hostels after a long day of sightseeing. But several challenges come with staying in a campervan, namely needing to pack light and having limited storage space. Preparing for your upcoming camping trip can be challenging, but thankfully we’ve got some tips for packing efficiently so you don’t end up lugging around unnecessary items. Here are 10 essential pieces of equipment for your next adventure as well as some useful accessories that will make your life easier while camping in a campervan.
Sleeping Bags
If you have to sleep outside in a campervan, you’re going to need a sleeping bag. It’s important to note that it’s going to get a lot colder at night than you might expect. Even during high summer, temperatures can drop below 20 degrees Celsius. The best thing to do is to choose a sleeping bag that is rated for the season you’ll be camping in. And while it’s tempting to bring the sleeping bag you purchased when you were a teenager, it’s probably time to invest in a new one. New sleeping bags are made with more advanced materials and are designed to keep you warmer and more comfortable. Sleeping bags come in different forms: there are standard ones, which are great for most climates, and there are also mummy bags, which are designed to be much warmer and more compact.
Cooking Utensils and Pots
If you plan on cooking in your campervan, you’ll need some cooking utensils. A good set of pots and pans can be used for an array of different dishes and are a great investment for any camper. But you should consider bringing a non-stick pan or pot for cooking eggs or other foods that tend to stick easily. There are also lots of other helpful cooking accessories that come in handy while camping in a campervan, such as a spatula, a colander, and a cutting board. A good set of sharp kitchen knives is also essential and something you don’t want to forget.
A foldable chair or hammock
If you’re not a fan of sleeping on the ground, it’s a good idea to bring a foldable chair or hammock. Hammocks are ideal for campervan travellers as they take up very little space and are easy to set up. Plus, many models are equipped with mosquito netting, which is great for protecting against pesky insects. You might also consider bringing a sleeping pad to place on top of the hammock or chair so that you can have a little more comfort while sleeping on hard surfaces.
A Backup Battery or Solar Panel
What happens if your campervan breaks down during your next road trip? Being prepared for any situation can help you avoid any unwanted interruptions in your adventures. Having a backup battery or solar panel can help you stay connected while camping and can enable you to charge your devices in an emergency. Having a backup battery is a great idea and can help ensure you always have power for your phone. Solar panels are another great item to bring, especially if you’re camping in a place that has a lot of sun, like the desert. Solar panels are great for charging your devices without having to plug them in.
Wireless router and unlimited data plan
If you plan to work while you’re on the road, you’re going to need a reliable internet connection. Most campervan rental companies have a basic internet package that you can add to your rental. But if you’re going to be spending a long time in your camper, you may want to invest in a wireless router so that you can use your data plan. This is going to cost you more upfront, but it will be worth it in the long run as you can continue to work remotely wherever you go. It’s a good idea to research the different providers in your area and find out which one offers the best coverage.
A Battery-Powered Fan
If you’re going to be camping in a hot climate, having a battery-powered fan is essential. Hot weather can dampen your camping experience and having a fan to cool yourself down is a great way to beat the heat. There are lots of different types of battery-powered fans. Some are designed to clip onto different surfaces, like a table or a chair, while others come with a stand or suction cups for mounting on a wall. If you prefer a more minimalist look, you can also find fan-shaped devices that plug into a power outlet and are designed to sit on a table or a desk.
A Laptop or Tablet
If you work online, having a laptop with you while camping is a great idea as it allows you to do your work wherever you go. There are lots of great lightweight laptops that are designed for travelling, such as the Apple MacBook Air and the Microsoft Surface. Similarly, a tablet computer, such as the Apple iPad or the Microsoft Surface Go, makes a great lightweight computer to bring on your campervan adventure. If you’re an avid reader or you just like to have a large screen to work on, a laptop can be a great option. However, if you like to read on your device, a tablet is a good choice.
A Good Pillow
Having a comfortable pillow is essential when you’re camping in a campervan. While you can always stuff a scarf or a t-shirt in a pillowcase for added comfort, it’s best to invest in a good pillow so that you can rest well and feel refreshed after a long day. Pillows come in a variety of sizes and shapes. The most common pillow sizes are standard, king, and queen. You can also choose between soft and firm pillows, depending on your preference. There are lots of different types of pillows on the market, including down, synthetic, and memory foam.
A Towel
It’s important to bring a towel with you while camping. This will help you wipe away any sweat and can also be used as a blanket on a warm night. It’s also a great item to bring if you plan on doing some outdoor activities like hiking or biking, as it can be used to wipe off your sweat and dust. If you don’t want to bring a regular towel, you can buy a travel towel, which is a smaller, more compact version of a regular towel. Travel towels are great for camping as they dry quickly and are easy to pack up and transport around with you. There are tons of different types of towels out there, but all you need to do is find one that is large enough for you to wrap up in and that is made from a quick-drying material.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve read through this guide, you’ll know what equipment you’ll need for your upcoming adventure. Campervans are a great way to explore new places around the world and can be a really fun way to travel. Before you visit the rental agency, make sure you check the weather forecast and pack accordingly. Remember, packing light can be challenging, but with a little preparation, you’ll be able to fit everything you need into your bag and enjoy your campervan adventure to the fullest!