Are you going on a family holiday in a campervan? Time flies, and in the blink of an eye, your kids could be all grown up and spending holidays with their own families.
So, you’ve got to make the most of the holidays that you do get with them, and what better way to squeeze in as much intentional time together as going on holiday in a campervan?
It’s easier said than done when you’re taking the show on the road because carting kids and teens around can be quite the chore.
So, to help you make some happy memories on your campervan holiday, here’s a list of tips to help you make it the best time ever.
1. Plan the route with everyone in mind
When you’re out and exploring the country in a campervan with your family, it’s best to plan as much as possible. Yes, you can anticipate a few things to change along the way, but planning your route makes for smooth sailing.
Pick all the must-see sites along the route (checking if they’re campervan-friendly), as well as all the bathroom breaks and spots you’d think your kids would need and enjoy. This will also allow you to plot out the most scenic route and book your camping spots in advance.
One thing to keep in mind when planning a road trip with kids is that there will be instances where you may need to make a few unplanned pitstops.
So, set a realistic timeline for your travels to avoid making everyone feel exhausted or rushed, and be prepared to make a few changes when the time comes.
Letting your kids get in on the planning can also help make the trip more exciting for them as they’ll feel more included.
2. Choose the right campervan for your family
The vehicle you use can make or break your holiday, so choose wisely. Some considerations to keep in mind will be how many people will be coming along for the drive and what kind of amenities you will need.
Renting a bigger campervan will give everyone space to feel comfortable, but it can be a challenge to drive and manoeuvre into parking spaces.
While most campervans should come with all the essentials, think about where you’re camping and if you’ll need any extras like a shower if you want to avoid using public restrooms. Getting one with a TV or AC can also make the drive tons more fun.
3. Budget accordingly
Avoid any surprise expenses and budget for your trip. Go ahead and compare prices of different camping areas, insurance, and campervan hire companies.
Travellers Autobarn campervan hire has a range of great vehicles to look at. Along with these expenses, one of your biggest is going to be paying for fuel and food, so download an app to help you track fuel prices, find the cheapest stations, and stock up on food and other essentials in advance to save some cash.
4. Pack smart
When you’ve got a whole family heading out on the road, regardless of how big the campervan is, you have to pack smart. Always pack clothes for any weather, just in case, and remember that layers can be a lifesaver. Other essentials to pack include:
- Utensils
- Ingredients
- Portable cooking gear
- Easy meals
- Snacks
- First aid kit
5. Don’t forget entertainment
Being on the road for long periods, there’s only so long you can stare out the window before things get boring – so think ahead and pack some things to keep you and the kids entertained. Pack some games, books and anything else that can provide entertainment for you and the kids.
When you’re behind schedule or are tired of driving for long hours, it can be tempting to drive faster, but for safety’s sake, always stick to the speed limit.
6. Safety first!
Road trips are fun, but safety should always be your first priority. It’s your responsibility to ensure that you and your family will be safe on the road.
So, before you set off, give your campervan a thorough check to look for any issues. Look at the gear, brakes, tyres, fluid levels, and lights to make sure everything is in working order.
7. Maximise comfort
To make some happy memories, you want to avoid people getting grouchy, and the one way to prevent an unhappy family is to make sure everyone stays as comfortable as possible.
Make sure everyone has a comfortable sleeping spot and personal space. So, if that means bringing extra blankets, pillows or sleeping bags, pack them! Not all campervans come with a heater or AC, so check ahead, and if they don’t, bring yours along for the ride. For extra space, pack a tent.
Final Thoughts
Going on a road trip adventure can give you some memories that will last a lifetime, but it’s not for the faint of heart. So make sure you’re well-prepared and have the perfect campervan so you can explore Australia the right way.
