Preparing for a Summer Campervan Road Trip
Summer is one of the best times to travel around the UK in a campervan. Longer days, warmer weather and plenty of places to explore make it ideal for a road trip. If you are planning to hire a campervan, a little preparation can make the trip much smoother. In this guide we cover what to pack, how to plan your route and how to get the most out of your summer campervan adventure.
Why Summer is Perfect for Campervan Travel
Summer gives you more daylight hours, better weather and access to many seasonal campsites. It is also when the countryside and coastline are at their best.
Travelling by campervan means you can move at your own pace. You are not tied to hotels or strict schedules. If you find somewhere you like, you can stay longer or change plans easily.
Starting from Swindon also puts you close to some excellent road trip routes. The Cotswolds, Dorset coast and Welsh countryside are all within easy reach.
Plan Your Route Before You Go
You do not need a strict itinerary, but it helps to have a rough route planned. This stops you wasting time deciding where to go once you are on the road.
Think about the type of trip you want:
- Coastal road trip along the south coast
- Exploring villages in the Cotswolds
- National parks like the Brecon Beacons
- A mix of countryside, towns and beaches
If you are unsure where to start, take a look at our plan your trip guide for ideas and inspiration.
What to Pack for a Summer Campervan Trip
One of the benefits of travelling by campervan is that many essentials are already included. However, there are still a few things worth bringing with you.
Clothing
- Lightweight clothes for warm days
- A waterproof jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A warm jumper for cooler evenings
Outdoor Essentials
- Sunglasses and sun cream
- Picnic blanket
- Reusable water bottles
- A small day backpack
Food and Cooking Items
- Easy meals for the first night
- Tea, coffee and breakfast supplies
- Snacks for the road
Your campervan will already include many practical features, but you can see exactly what is included on our campervan hire details page.
Book Campsites in Advance During Peak Season
Summer is the busiest time for camping in the UK. Popular sites often fill up quickly, especially near beaches and national parks. Booking ahead gives you peace of mind and guarantees you have somewhere to stay each night.
It is also worth checking facilities when choosing a campsite. Some offer electric hook ups, showers and washing areas which can make your trip more comfortable.
Check the Campervan Before You Leave
When collecting your campervan, take a few minutes to familiarise yourself with everything inside. This includes:
- Where equipment is stored
- How the pop-top roof works
- How to use the cooking equipment
- How the electrics and controls operate
If you are hiring one of our vans, such as Billy Ocean or Gertie, we will show you everything you need to know before you set off.
Make the Most of the Journey
A campervan road trip is not just about the destination. The journey itself is part of the experience. Take time to stop along the way. Small towns, scenic viewpoints and countryside walks often turn out to be the best parts of the trip. You also have the flexibility to change plans. If you discover a great beach or village, you can stay longer or adjust your route.
Ready for Your Summer Campervan Adventure?
Preparing for a summer campervan road trip does not need to be complicated. A little planning, the right gear and a good route are usually all you need. At Beach Life Campervan Hire we are a family run business based in Swindon and we love helping people explore the UK by campervan.
If you are thinking about your next adventure, check our campervan availability or get in touch with any questions.
FAQs
What should I pack for a summer campervan trip?
For a summer campervan trip it is best to pack lightweight clothes for warm days and a warm layer for cooler evenings. It is also worth bringing essentials like sun cream, comfortable shoes and a few food supplies for the first part of your journey.
Do I need to book campsites in advance?
During summer it is usually a good idea to book campsites ahead of time, especially in popular coastal or countryside areas. Many campsites fill up quickly in peak season, so booking early helps avoid last minute stress.
How far should I drive each day on a campervan trip?
Most people find that driving two to three hours per day works well for a relaxed campervan trip. This gives you enough time to enjoy the scenery, stop at interesting places and explore without spending the whole day on the road.
Are campervans good for UK road trips?
Campervans are a great option for exploring the UK because they give you the freedom to travel at your own pace. You can easily move between countryside, coastal towns and national parks without needing to book different hotels each night.
Where can I go from Swindon in a campervan?
Swindon is well located for several excellent road trip routes across the UK. From here you can easily reach the Cotswolds, the Dorset coastline, Wales and many other scenic areas within just a few hours of driving.
