Top Tips For Those Lusting After #Vanlife

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The van life campervan craze is showing no signs of slowing down.
This post explores what you need to keep in mind when planning your own adventure on four wheels.

If you’ve been tempted by images of beautiful retro campers out in the wilderness, you may be very tempted to get your #vanlife on. For those who are on the fence about the appeal of a full-blown camping holiday, getting away in a camper van offers a compromise - all the freedom of life on the open road, but with a solid roof over your head - and when you’re at the wheel, you can take your temporary home anyway. Little wonder then, that the campervan craze is showing no signs of slowing. So what do you need to keep in mind when planning your own adventure on four wheels?

Get Used To The Drive

If you’ve only ever driven a car before, take your time to understand the different spatial mechanics of driving a van - such as the much wider turning circle and the higher driver vantage point. It's best to try out van life by renting for your first couple of trips, and then if you really get the bug, you can consider purchasing one of your very own. Camper vans can be kitted out with all kinds of added extras these days - everything from pricey custom fits to simple additions such as roof top campers can make your travels more comfortable.

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Make Your Travels Flexible

The true beauty of camper van life is being able to hit the open road and move on to the next location whenever the mood takes you. So when it comes to planning a trip, remember to give yourself the flexibility to move between several locations. Start by researching the best road trips in the world, and narrow it down to the location that you’re interested in. From there you can map out a route and a rough itinerary. Make a plan, but don’t be afraid to mix it up a little and go where the wind takes you.
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Pack For Success….

Campervan trips may be a little less basic than those in a tent, but you do need to make sure your van is well stocked with all the things you need before setting off. Stuff like towels and blankets are a must as well as bottled water, dried and canned goods, reusable shopping bags, a tin opener, antibacterial wipes, a first aid kit, folding chairs, road safety kit, basic kitchen implements such as cutlery, plates and glasses and a windscreen shade. If you’re hiring a campervan, check what is included and that it's all there before you set off - the middle of nowhere is not the place to discover that you’re missing a vital bit of kit.

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...But Pack Light

Although you do need all the essentials, you also have to remember that you don’t have unlimited space. When it comes to clothes, opt for light, breathable layers that you can pile on - or off - as the temperature changes. Go for just a few spares, and if it's a longer trip, find the nearest launderette -  many camping sites will have one - so that you do a quick wash and dry if necessary. The aim is freedom, so kill the clutter and don’t waste precious holiday time sorting through possessions that you should have left at home.