Thinking about hiring a campervan? Here’s what to know before you hit the road.
Campervan hire sounds exciting for a reason. It’s flexible, cost-effective, and gives you the freedom to explore on your own terms. But here’s the thing. While hiring a campervan is a fantastic way to travel, it also comes with a few things to think about. Not in a bad way, just in a realistic, be-prepared kind of way.
There’s more to it than just picking a van and heading off. If you want to avoid the usual beginner mistakes, a little planning can go a long way. From choosing the right size to packing properly, a few smart decisions early on can make the whole trip feel smoother.
How to choose the right campervan for your trip
When it comes to campervan hire, choosing the right van makes a huge difference to your trip. Not all campervans are the same, and what works for one journey might be completely wrong for another.
Here’s what matters most when making your choice:
- Group size
Are you travelling solo, as a couple, or with friends or family? The number of people impacts space, sleeping arrangements, and comfort. You don’t want to feel cramped after day one. - Trip length
For a short weekend trip, you might manage with something smaller. But for a longer journey, you’ll appreciate having room to stand up, stretch, and store your things properly. - Driving experience
Some campervans are compact and easy to handle. Others are much larger and take time to get used to. If you’re not confident driving a bigger vehicle, stick with something that feels more like a car. - Internal features
Need a full kitchen, or just a gas stove? Planning to shower in the van, or stop at campsites? Think about the essentials, not just the nice-to-haves.
Key things to check before picking up the van
Even if the van looks great in photos, always double-check a few important things in person. Don’t rush this step. A quick look now can save you hours of stress later.
Look out for:
- Tyre condition – Check for wear and make sure there’s a spare.
- Lights and indicators – Test everything before leaving the pick-up point.
- Water and gas levels – Make sure both are topped up.
- Battery power – Understand how long it lasts, and how to recharge.
- Window locks and doors – For safety, privacy, and peace of mind.
Also, ask how everything works. If you’re unsure about any of the van’s systems, now is the time to ask questions. It’s better to learn while parked than while stuck in a lay-by at dusk.
What to pack (and what to leave behind)
Space inside a campervan is limited. You’ll need to be clever with what you bring, especially if travelling with others. The goal is to pack light, but smart.
- Weather-appropriate clothing – Layers are key. Include waterproofs, even in summer.
- Cooking basics – Bring a few utensils, a pot, pan, cutlery, and food staples.
- First aid kit – Always have one, even for minor scrapes.
- Portable charger or power bank – Useful if you’re off-grid.
- Head torch or lantern – For early mornings or late-night stops.
- Rubbish bags – Stay tidy, and respect the places you visit.
- Foldable chairs or picnic blanket – For those scenic stops.
Avoid packing lots of bulky items unless absolutely necessary. A cluttered van is hard to live in, especially after day three.
Driving tips to keep in mind
You don’t need to be an expert driver to hire a campervan, but there are a few differences to be aware of.
First, campervans are heavier and often taller than regular cars. That changes how they handle, especially when braking or turning. Take your time on narrow roads, and be cautious when parking in unfamiliar spots.
Keep these points in mind:
- Stick to the speed limits, especially in rural areas.
- Plan fuel stops in advance. Not every small village has a station.
- Be extra careful with height restrictions. Car parks, drive-throughs, and low bridges can cause real issues.
- Use lay-bys or dedicated spots for breaks. Don’t block traffic.
Also, make sure you’re legally covered to drive. That includes the right licence and the correct insurance in place.
Campsite or wild camping?
This depends on the rules in the country or region you’re visiting. Some places welcome wild camping if done respectfully. Others have strict no-overnight rules outside of campsites.
If you’re planning to stay at a campsite, book ahead during busy seasons. The best ones fill up quickly, especially near coastlines or national parks.
Wild camping can be a great experience, but do your homework:
Is it legal where you plan to park?
Are there any restrictions or local guidelines?
Can you dispose of waste properly?
Will you disturb anyone?
If in doubt, stick to official sites. Many offer good facilities without losing the sense of adventure.
Managing power, water, and waste
These are the practical bits that get easier with experience, but they matter a lot from day one.
Power
If your campervan has a leisure battery, learn how long it lasts and how to recharge it. Driving helps recharge, but so does connecting to a mains hook-up at campsites.
Water
Freshwater tanks are usually limited in size. Use water wisely and refill whenever you can.
Waste
Grey water (from sinks) and toilet waste must be emptied at proper stations. Never dump waste in nature or by the road.
Keep a routine. It’s much easier to deal with small tasks daily than let them pile up. A quick top-up or clean every morning keeps everything running smoothly.
A few extras that make a big difference
Once you’ve got the basics sorted, these small touches can really improve the experience:
- A basic travel app or map to help with offline directions.
- A lightweight broom or handheld vacuum.
- Reusable containers for leftovers and snacks.
- Hooks or clips for hanging wet towels or clothes.
- A notebook or small journal to jot down routes, campsites, or spots you want to revisit.
These aren’t essentials, but they do help you settle into campervan life more easily.
Why campervan hire is worth it
The beauty of campervan travel is that it’s whatever you make it. One day you might wake up near a beach. The next, you’re in the mountains. There’s freedom in that. You’re not tied to hotel check-in times or rigid schedules.
It’s also a great way to slow down. You don’t need to rush. You stop when the view’s too good to ignore. You cook when you’re hungry, sleep when you’re tired, and explore places that aren’t always in the guidebooks.
Yes, it takes a bit of prep. And sure, there’s a learning curve. But once you get the hang of it, it’s one of the most rewarding ways to travel.
Ready for the road?
Campervan hire is more than a way to get from A to B. It’s an experience in itself. With the right planning, realistic expectations, and a good sense of adventure, it can quickly become your favourite way to see new places.
Keep it simple, stay flexible, and enjoy the ride.
