A guide to planning the perfect campervan trip
The freedom of the open road and the prospect of unexpected adventures are what make campervan travel so irresistible. Imagine waking up to a new view each morning, or the smell of coffee brewing beside a misty lake. But the best adventures begin with solid preparation. Whether you’re heading to the Scottish Highlands or winding through the Cornish coast, here’s your guide on how to plan, pack, and prepare for a smooth campervan holiday that’s as enjoyable as the destination.
Timing and destinations: Pick your perfect route
What kind of trip do you want? Scenic, coastal, cultural, or nature-based? Use a route planner to build realistic daily itineraries and identify safe overnight stops. Consider popular driving loops like the North Coast 500 in Scotland or a Devon and Cornwall coastal route – both full of breathtaking spots and with reliable campervan facilities. You don’t want to get caught out in the dark or happen upon a brewing rainstorm, so factor in daylight hours and weather conditions, especially if you’re travelling during the shorter days of autumn or winter (which also requires careful planning for road safety and heating).
Get your camper road-ready
You need to be sure that your campervan takes you through the entire trip. Before setting off, book a full service to check tyres, oil, brakes, and lights. Make sure your MOT is up to date and bring along spares such as fuses, bulbs, and basic tools. You also need to take out the correct campervan insurance (make sure that the policy covers travel in Europe if you’re planning to cross the Channel). If your vehicle is a conversion, check that all modifications meet UK safety regulations. And before loading up, familiarise yourself with your van’s weight limits to avoid fines or mechanical strain.
Prepare to stay self-sufficient off-grid or on-site
A well-prepared campervan is a self-contained home that has to keep you comfortable throughout your trip. Keep your battery charged with solar panels or hook-ups at campsites. Carry enough water for drinking and washing, and have a method for refilling safely. Plan to dispose of waste at designated sites. For cooking, portable stoves or small gas setups work well, but always ventilate properly. Bring extra blankets or a small electric heater for chilly nights.
Booking, flexibility and local constraints
Spontaneity is one of the biggest perks of campervan travels, but book ahead during summer, especially if you’re headed for campsites in popular coastal or national park areas. Just leave a few nights on your calendar open in case you discover a hidden coastline or find out about a local festival. Remember that wild camping has limited legal rights – so get permission from the landowner in advance or stick to recognised stopover areas (keeping in mind changing rules such as proposals to limit overnight stays in parts of Scotland’s North Coast 500). Always have a ‘Plan B’ in case a site is full or access roads are closed.
Your campervan adventure, done right
With the right mix of planning and spontaneity, a campervan trip offers unbeatable freedom. A little foresight will turn your road trip dreams into reality. Just prepare your vehicle, map out your ideal route, and leave enough space in the schedule for unexpected detours.
