Thinking about taking off on a road trip adventure? A campervan journey might just be the ideal way to experience the freedom of the open road, with the chance to explore new places without the hassle of constantly packing and unpacking. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the right campervan?
Table of Contents
1. Consider Your Travel Style and Group Size
First things first—who’s going along for the ride, and how do you like to travel? A solo journey has very different needs than a family trip or a couples’ getaway. If you’re planning on bringing a friend or partner, you’ll need a campervan with enough space for two beds or a larger bed to share. Travelling with children? Look for a van with additional sleeping options, like fold-out beds or bunks. Think about your own travel habits too. Do you prefer everything to have its own space, or are you okay with doubling up? Some campervans offer more storage space and privacy, while others are minimalist. Imagine your ideal setup, whether that means separate areas for sleeping, cooking, and lounging, or a more compact, all-in-one approach.
2. Decide on Key Amenities and Features
Once you’ve nailed down your group size and travel preferences, it’s time to look at features. Think about what you need versus what’s nice to have. Some people are all about the basics, while others love a touch of luxury on the road. When you look into campervan hire options, focus on key essentials like a comfortable bed, reliable cooking setup, and enough storage for your belongings. Many campervans come with extras, from solar panels to heating and even air conditioning—these are definitely worth considering if you plan on staying in remote areas or are travelling in colder or warmer seasons. Some campervans even come with entertainment options like built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth speakers. But remember, the more features you add, the larger the van and potentially the higher the hire cost.
3. Think About Your Driving Comfort
The driving experience is a big one here. A campervan isn’t your average car; it’s bulkier, and depending on the model, it may take a little getting used to. For first-timers, look for campervans with automatic transmission, smaller bodies, and features that make driving easier, like power steering and reversing cameras. If you’re comfortable driving larger vehicles, you might consider a high-top campervan for extra standing space and a more substantial feel on the road. Don’t forget to check the fuel type too—diesel is often more economical for long distances, but it can vary. Test-driving your campervan hire vehicle before you commit can give you peace of mind and let you feel out its handling and visibility.
4. Plan for Your Budget and Duration
Budget plays a huge role in campervan choices. While campervans are generally more budget-friendly than traditional holiday accommodations, there are still a few financial factors to consider. Start by calculating your total trip budget, including fuel, camping fees, and any extras you might want to add. Then, determine how long you’ll need the campervan for—longer trips often get discounted rates, but daily hire costs vary by model and season. Think about any special add-ons you might need, such as insurance, additional driver coverage, or equipment like bike racks. This way, you can choose a campervan that meets your needs without exceeding your budget.
5. Consider Where You’ll Be Travelling and Parking
Where you plan to travel is key to selecting the right campervan. If you’ll be sticking mostly to city roads or paved highways, a standard-sized van might be just fine. However, if your trip involves off-the-beaten-path locations, national parks, or rough terrains, a campervan with higher ground clearance and a more robust build will be essential. This also goes for where you plan to park overnight—smaller campervans are often easier to manage in tight parking spots, while larger models may restrict you to specific camping areas or car parks. Some campervans have stealth designs, which look more like regular vehicles and can sometimes be parked in regular spots without raising eyebrows. Wherever you’re headed, always check the local camping and parking regulations to ensure you’re in the clear.
Ready to Hit the Road?
Selecting the perfect campervan doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By taking into account your group size, desired features, driving comfort, budget, and destination, you can make an informed choice that ticks all the boxes. Each of these elements will help shape the type of journey you have—whether it’s a relaxed, cosy escape or an adventurous, feature-packed road trip. Once you’re on the road with the right campervan, there’s a whole world of sights and experiences just waiting to be explored. Get ready for an adventure that’s as flexible, comfortable, and memorable as you’ve imagined.