Have you ever thought about deciding to hop in your vehicle and hit the open road on a whim? With a campervan or motorhome, you can!
Of course, spontaneous trips for a weekend do require a little bit of planning. Having somewhere safe to stay at night as well as packing the essentials is important for making sure you enjoy your trip.
Here are some tips to making sure you have the best time on your campervan or motorhome adventure.
Choosing the right vehicle
If you are new to the motorhome world, you need to make sure you choose the right vehicle for your needs. If you are a solo traveller or making memories with your partner, then a smaller vehicle will be just the right size. However, families will need a bit more room to feel comfortable.
For some, driving a bigger vehicle such as a campervan or motorhome can be a bit intimidating. Some dealerships or clubs offer motorhome driving courses where you can learn to manoeuvre your new purchase safely.
Planning your route and destination
Before you hit the open road, take some time to plan where you are headed. Research campsites in your chosen area – some will have limited motorhome parking, especially during peak times so it is worth booking in advance when you can.
Think about your route too. Country lanes can be lovely to drive down, but they may feel a bit stressful in a motorhome. Remember to factor in rest stops on longer journeys. Giving everyone the chance to stretch their legs will make for a much more enjoyable experience.
Packing essentials for the journey
When you go campervanning, you will typically pack like a regular holiday. You need essentials such as appropriate clothes, medications and entertainment. But, going in a movable home means you need to remember items such as cooking equipment, bedding, safety gear and power supplies.
Although you have a lot of space to store things on your motorhome, remember that you may need to unpack it all once you get there! Try and pack minimally but intentionally so that you don’t have to sort too much out when you arrive.
Ensuring safety and maintenance on the road
As with all driving, you need to maintain your motorhome to keep it roadworthy. This includes basic checks such as tyre pressure, fluid levels, brakes and headlights. You should also make sure you have an emergency kit in your possession with things such as food, a shovel, blankets, spare chargers and a high-vis jacket.
Remember to keep your motorhome insurance up to date as well. If you unfortunately end up in an accident, having protection will save you from a large financial hit. Having insurance on your motorhome is also a legal requirement in the UK, the same as regular car insurance.
Understanding campsite etiquette
One of the best things about visiting campsites is the different people you get to meet on your travels. That being said, you do need to be respectful of them and their space too. Park your motorhome the same way as your neighbours to ensure you all have space for awnings and chairs.
Typically, campsites do have quiet hours which are usually between 10 pm or 11 pm until 7 am. However, some family campsites do insist on quiet earlier so kids can get a decent night’s sleep so be sure to check before booking.
