Overwhelmed by your first Camper Van trip? Don’t worry I was too! One of the hardest things about planning a van trip is figuring out what to pack! There are tons of things you may be contemplating throwing into your suitcase, but I can tell you, you won’t need them all! Here is a camper van packing guide to help ensure you are well equipped for your trip!
Highly Recommend
- Headlamp that has a red light option:
- Red light lamps are useful for stargazing and photography
- Body/Hiking Wipes
- You won’t be showering every day, and these will be your life savior
- Layered clothing (depending on season and location):
- Good hiking shoes
- First aid kit/medicine
- Portable Charger
- Water Pack
- Insect Repellent/Sun Screen
- Hydration Packets
- Hiking/Day Bag
- Duct Tape
- Always good for emergencies
Optional Useful Items
- Dry Shampoo
- Camera + Tripod
- If you are into photography
- Portable Speakers
- Waterproof phone case
- Books
- Cards
- Air Freshener
- Van can get smelly sometimes!
Things to Buy Upon Arrival
- Firewood/Firestarter/Lighter: If you want to set up fires
- Paper Towels
- Toilet Paper (1/2 rolls)
- Extra Propane Tank depending on how many are included
- Groceries
Things to Ask Your Van Rental Company
- Do They include linens?
- Do they include dishwashing soap?
- What Cooking Utensils are included?
- Is there a heater?
- Do they include camping chairs?
- Is there a broom in the van?
- Vans get dirty if you don’t sweep every so often
A Note on Packing
It is very easy to get carried away when packing for a van trip. There are so many things you can bring “just in case”. I highly suggest not overpacking. Living in a van means limited space, and you don’t want to feel like the van is disorganized and messy. On the flip side, if your van itinerary involves driving to very isolated and remote areas, make sure you have a good array of emergency items. Almost everything else can be purchased from a store as needed!
