The Ultimate Guide to Packing for your Campervan Adventure

Everything you need, nothing you don’t (plus a few things you’ll thank us for later).

So, you’ve booked your VW California Ocean campervan and the open road is calling. Whether you’re heading for the hills, chasing sunsets by the coast, or just seeing how many tea stops the Yorkshire Dales can handle, you need to pack wisely to make the most of the space and to ensure you have everything you need to make your trip as comfortable as can be.

To help you on your way, we’ve put together the ultimate packing guide for your campervan adventure – whether you’re a family of four or a couple of empty-nesters reliving your festival days (with more comfort and less mud – maybe!).

First Things First: What’s Already in the Van?

The Campervan Packing List

Bedding & Sleeping Gear

• Duvet or sleeping bags (seasonal depending on the time of year)

• Pillows (unless you love improvising with rolled-up jumpers)

• Extra blanket for chilly nights or snuggly mornings

Top Tip: You can’t travel with your bedding on the beds. We use a compression sack, but any soft-sided bags that can squish into storage cupboards will work.

Clothing

• Layers, layers, and more layers

• Waterproof jacket

• Comfy loungewear or pyjamas (something you don’t mind visiting the campsite loos in)

• Walking boots

• Camp-friendly footwear (siders, flip-flops or Crocs – we won’t judge)

• Hats: sun and woolly versions, because British weather

Top Tip: Packing cubes are excellent for keeping things organised. Choose a different colour set for each person in your party.

Food and Drink

• Basic food staples that you can cook on the hob, or BBQ if the weather allows

• Fresh bits for the fridge (milk, cheese, bacon – the essentials)

• Bottled water (your water tank will be filled with fresh drinking water, but many people prefer to only use it for hot drinks and cleaning).

• Condiments

Top Tip: There’s a Morrisons supermarket just two minute’s drive from our base where you can stock up on supplies.

Toiletries 

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.

• Quick-dry towels (you’ll thank us later)

• Shampoo, conditioner, body lotion etc

Top Tip: Going off grid? Follow Leave No Trace principles  by using biodegradable soap and shampoo away from a water source.

Tech and Gadgets

• Phone charger

• Power bank

• Head torches

• Portable speaker (keep it friendly – nobody likes a campsite DJ)

• Kindle or books for rainy days

Packing Tips for Maximum Camper Zen

• Soft bags over suitcases. They fit better in the van and are easier to stash.

• Plan for the space. You probably don’t need three coats.

• Keep essentials handy. Toothbrush, snacks, torch… the stuff you’ll want to grab without digging.

• Leave space for spontaneity. You might need to add that must-have mug from a gift shop.

One last thing

Campervan travel is less about the destination and more about the long, winding route to get there. With the right packing list and a bit of flexibility, you’ll be more than ready for whatever the British countryside throws at you – be it sunshine, sheep, or sudden fog.

Need help with route planning or campsite ideas? Just ask us – we may well have been there and are happy to help.

Happy travels from Hai Campers, Darlington’s base for your next road trip!