While planning for trips can be challenging, it’s usually slightly less challenging when you’re taking your family on a trip with an RV, campervan, or even a caravan. It’s easier to pack up the necessities, but even items that aren’t necessary at all.
Whether planning a family holiday or just a quick trip to the beach, there are some basic camper van essentials that you will want to have in your vehicle. From beds to a first aid kit, here are some important items you should carry with you in your camper van.
Murphy beds
Adding Murphy beds to your camper van allows you to make much use of a little space. Murphy beds, also known as wall beds, fold up against a wall when you don’t need them.
They are useful for small spaces, traditional homes, and basements. While the idea of adding a Murphy bed to a camper van is a great one, there are some drawbacks. The weight of the mattress can be a problem, and the bed takes up a lot of space.
You’ll need to balance other van equipment to compensate for the Murphy bed’s weight.
While you may be able to fit two twin-size bunk beds against a wall, you’ll have to climb up to get to them at night. You’ll also lose the storage space of the bed when it’s folded up.
You can put a bungee cord along the bottom of the bed to hold the bedding in place when you’re stowing it away. Some camper vans already include these automatically, but not all do.
Fridge
What family enjoys hunting around for a good restaurant? Usually, when going with family, especially cranky children, it can be a nightmare.
So, one of the glories of a camper van would be the fact that you and your family can go grocery shopping and stock up everything inside the Campervan Fridges.
This way, there’s no hunting to find a restaurant, as everything is already in the camper van. This is one of the biggest perks of camper vans.
You instantly have to deal with less stress, and that’s all thanks to having it ready on hand. It’s also a challenge going out with family for meals, so there’s no need for it to become even more complicated!
Pop-top camper vans
Buying a pop-top camper van is a classic choice for families. They offer extra sleeping space and can fit into standard parking spaces. They also are cheaper than full-size RVs.
And they can take your family to more places than a larger rig. The most important factor in choosing a layout for your family camper van is the number of people you will be able to sleep in it.
Having these little pop-top additions makes it a lot easier. However, it’s all going to depend on the size of your van. If you own a full or half-size RV, then this probably isn’t needed.
Folding camping chairs
Whether you’re camping in a tent or on the beach, folding camping chairs are essential for your next adventure.
Depending on your needs, you can choose from many different styles. The best folding camping chairs are designed to provide comfort and support while you’re outdoors. For instance, you’ll want to look for a lightweight chair with a sturdy frame.
You should also consider how comfortable the seat is. A good camping chair will allow you to sit for a long time without causing you to slump. Some types of folding camping chairs come with a table.
This is especially useful for camping on soft ground. However, some chairs need this feature. Lounging, especially during the summer months, can be great, so many sure everyone in the family gets to have their own!
Grill
Going to the great outdoors doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your taste buds. There are a few camping hacks to help keep your food fresh.
From tin foil to aluminum foil to nonstick cookware, you’ll have no shortage of options. One of the simplest ways to prepare a tasty meal is to cook it on the grill. For a more budget-friendly option, a campfire will do the trick.
Some campgrounds even have their own charcoal BBQ. It’s an economical and convenient way to prepare a feast for the family. However, you could also look into a microwave or small air fryer for your camper van too. These won’t provide that charred taste, but the food will still taste great.
Clothesline
Suppose you plan an extended family trip in the camper van; then you cannot neglect this! Using a clothesline for a camper van is a great way to keep your clothing dry and clean. It can also help prevent mildew from building up on your clothes. This will make your laundry last longer.
There are many different kinds of clotheslines available. Some are light and easy to transport, while others are heavy and difficult to set up.
You should choose a durable clothesline that will hold up against different weather conditions. The best clotheslines include adjustable height options. This is important for convenience purposes.
You should also be able to dry large items without causing too much damage. Besides, this beats having to go to one of those shared laundry facilities at the campsite.
Entertainment
Luckily, most RV parks offer a cable television connection. Consider the merits of bringing your own tv and internet if you are entertaining the kids in the evening.
Alternatively, you can opt for a pay a streaming service that could go on your computer, phone, or tablet.
While yes, vacations, especially camping, are means to get the kids away from screens, sometimes just taking that break and getting back in touch with the 21st century can help make it a better time.
First aid kit
Hopefully, you or your family will never go through any accidents during vacation, but sometimes, it’s still best to just stay prepared. When it comes to trips, you’re entirely out of routine and never know what to expect. This is why it’s so important to try to stay prepared.
You should always have a first aid kit for camping van essentials. This is not only a safety precaution, but it can also help other campers in the event of an emergency.
The first aid kit should contain all the basic medical tools that can help treat minor cuts, bruises, and other injuries. It’s important to check the contents of your kit periodically to ensure that they are still clean and dry.
When traveling with children, carrying kid-friendly pain medication in your first aid kit is a good idea. This can include over-the-counter pain medications such as Tylenol and Benadryl.
These can also be used to relieve stomach cramps and headaches. Bandages and gauze are vital items to have in your first aid kit.
Bandages can cover wounds and protect them from dirt and other elements. You can also use medical tape to hold bandages in place. To relieve pain, you can also put a cold compress over a cut or sprain.
Antiseptic wipes can be used to clear up a wound or a scratch. You can also use an antibiotic cream to treat scratches and open wounds.