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Campervan Essentials: The Ultimate Van Life Packing List

Home » Blog » Campervan » Campervan Essentials: The Ultimate Van Life Packing List

Make life in your tiny home on wheels easier with our campervan essentials packing list. We’ll show you our favorite travel products for van life, from camping gear to kitchen supplies to creative storage. You’ll ready to hit the road with these van life essentials!

If RV or van life is on your mind, you may already be wondering what necessities you should bring on the road, or how you’ll possibly pack everything into your new tiny home.

So what exactly is inside our campervan,  you ask?

We’ve built three separate campervans on our own, and spent countless months living out of our vans. Pulling from our personal experience, we laid out all the gear that we use during our campervan road trips and created an ultimate campervan essentials packing list, just for you! 

These products are all the van life essentials that made our life so much easier while living in a campervan on the road.

Campervan Essentials Guide

Campervan kitchen essentials.

• Automotive essentials
• Must-have travel essentials
• Travel toiletries

Electronics for vanlife

• Essentials for storage and organization
• Camping/backpacking gear
• Optional gear for added comfort

DIY campervan conversion guide

Simplify your van build & get on the road faster!

Want to  save yourself the headaches and hours of research  we went through and get straight to the building process? 

We created  Van Conversion Academy , a DIY campervan conversion guide, because it’s exactly what we wished we’d had when we were building our campervans.

Save yourself the time and money and get straight to the building process with  step-by-step instructions, video tutorials, blueprints you can actually copy  and tons of insider tips and recommended products to get you on the road faster! 

Food is life. (At least it is for us!) Making a kitchen that was both practical and useful was super important to us so that we could easily cook meals on the road.   We even wrote a step-by-step tutorial so you can  make your own DIY budget campervan kitchen too !

Once we had the kitchen counter and storage constructed, we had to fill it with all the essentials we would need to prep and cook meals on the road , without bringing things we wouldn’t use. We really narrowed it down and are sharing exactly what we had in our campervan kitchen.

In our second and third campervans, we had much more outfitted kitchens with running water and permanent gas burners. However, in our first build, we had to get creative with our budget and that required us to have a few more essentials on hand.

Psst! Check out our article for more creative solutions and ideas for your campervan kitchen build .

Kitchen staples in our budget campervan build

• Campervan kitchen sink  – We did a lot of hunting, and this is literally the PERFECT sink for your campervan conversion. Check out our kitchen tutorial to find out exactly how we turned this into a working sink.
• Water container   – This acted as our water spout to wash our hands, clean dishes and rinse toothbrushes. 
• Coleman 2-Burner Stove  – When it comes to camping stoves, you can’t get better than a Coleman 2-burner stove. This stove makes it easy to cook inside (with the windows open!) or outside on a campground picnic table.
• Insulated Cooler  – Trust me when I say this, you want a good, insulated cooler. Our cooler was decent enough to keep ice solid for about 3 days (but maybe only one day in  Utah ). But it would have saved us some time and money in the long run if we had purchased a better cooler to begin with. 

Kitchen staples in our more recent campervans

• Big Berkey – This water filter allows you to drink from the tap with confidence, no matter where you’re parked. It eliminates 99.9% of toxins and bacteria, plus it improves the taste too. Just be sure to have a way to secure your tank when you’re driving. (We use a bungee cord and an eyehole hook).
• Dish drying mat -This super affordable mat is awesome because it protects our butcher block countertop from excess moisture and doesn’t slip and slide around.
• French Press – This is what we use for our daily brew. Simply heat up water in a tea kettle and pour over grounds.
• Check out this article to explains all the different ways to make camping coffee based on your personal preferences!
• Slim trash bin – This trashcan is awesome! Not only does it fit in the super narrow space between our kitchen wall and the driver’s seat, but it fits much more trash than we thought it would. We typically only need to empty every 3-4 days (or sometimes even longer!).
• Fire extinguisher – This small rechargeable fire extinguisher is perfect for a tiny campervan kitchen.

Cookware & utensils

• Enamelware pot  – Big pots are great for making stews or stir fry on the road.
• Dining set  – The classic blue set is our favorite!
• Cast iron skillet   – Say goodbye to Teflon chips in your meal. Cast iron is durable and great to cook with!
• Mixing bowl  – Essential for making a big salad with loads of fresh veggies. And it’ll stack well with your pots and bowls.
• Silicone tongs, spatula, and spoon  – Every good chef has to have all the right tools. Silicone style are inexpensive, easy to clean, and can withstand high temperatures.
• This is the only reasonably-sized container we’ve found that fits well in our fridge. It says they should only be used for dry storage, but we’ve used them for leftovers and it works just fine. (FYI the link above is the exact size we use, short 1.7-quart rectangle).
• Collapsible Tupperware   – If you want to go on a hike and don’t want to take up too much space in your bag, bring one of these. Plus, they store nicely in your van because they don’t take up too much space.
• Mason Jars – These are great for storing bulk items like rice, quinoa, lentils, and cous cous. Instead of buying new ones, you can always use an old mayonnaise or pickle jar and upcycle it!
• Knives – If you already have knives you like, there’s no need to get new ones. However, we didn’t have any, so we bought this set of three. They’re beautiful and they work really well!
• Magnetic knife holder – We chose this affordable magnetic knife holder and love it. It has a powerful hold and our knives stay right in place. Plus, it was a fraction of the price of many others ones we saw.
• Cutting boards  – Stores easily and can be used as an additional plate if needed.
• Bamboo organizers : We have this cutlery organizer in our drawer, as well as a few other shallow plastic trays we thrifted. They keep all our miscellaneous items organized (which is clutch)!
• Fruit hammock : This is one of the most popular “vanlife” items, and we can understand why — it’s pretty cute! Plus, it keeps your produce in place.
• Mesh produce bags : Instead of a fruit hammock, we opted for this 4-pack of mesh produce bags because we use a lot of fruit and veg, and that little hammock just wouldn’t cut it for us!
• Wine opener  – A very useful tool when traveling. WINE Not!
• Hydroflask cooler cups – This cup transforms seamlessly from water cup to wine glass to coffee mug to beer koozie (it holds both bottles and cans!).

The little things: Don’t forget these things!

• Dr. Bronner’s Liquid Soap  – Famous for having endless uses, this bio-degradable liquid soap is great for doing the dishes. Plus, you can use it for your laundry or even wash your vehicle with it!
• Tip: We Velcro-ed one half of a plastic soap container to our kitchen counter. This is where we kept the sponge so it didn’t go flying as we went around turns.
• Budget Warning: For some reason, there are not many cheap deals on Amazon, so buy this product in stores, NOT online. We simply linked to it so you know what we’re talking about. 
• Long lighter  – Keep your distance from the flame when you start your propane stove. 
• Trashcan  – You will definitely want a trashcan with a lid. Trust us. Choose a small trashcan so it doesn’t take up much space, and you can use reuse plastic bags from the grocery store as garbage bags. Also, you’ll want to empty it frequently to prevent your van from smelling, so the small size helps you keep on top of this.
• Tiny Stool  – Make it easier on your knees with a small foldable stool that you can sit on while cooking or doing the dishes.
• Tip: #1: We secured ours to the kitchen counter using a bungee cord so it didn’t move around while we were on the road.
• Tip #2: If you are concerned about your trashcan smelling up your tiny home, sprinkle some baking soda in the bottom of the trash can. You can also keep a dryer sheet in the bottom before lining it with a plastic bag.

Optional kitchen “luxury” items

• Omnia Stovetop Oven – This handy device allows us to bake on our stovetop (no oven required!). It looks somewhat similar to a bundt pan and comes with a secondary bottom piece that creates a hot air chamber so food bakes instead of burning.
• We also use  this milk frother  when we want to make fancy drinks.
• Portable blender – If you want a way to have smoothies on the road, but don’t want to commit to a large kitchen appliance, this handy little device is a great option! No cords or electricity needed. It has a USB port so you can recharge it, and we are surprised by how powerful it is!
• Instapot – We personally don’t have one of these, but we know some vanlifers who swear by it. It takes a bit of energy to cook, so make sure your electric system can handle it.

I’m interested in vanlife, where do I get started?

We understand just how overwhelming it can be to start this process so we poured all of our personal experience and advice into a mega resource just for you.

Enter your email below to immediately receive our  Vanlife Jumpstart Toolkit ,  your FREE mega guide to jump-starting your #vanlife dreams!

There are a few supplies you’ll need for a campervan road trip, no matter what vehicle you’re driving!

• Car Emergency Kit  – It’s always good to be prepared for any situation, especially if you’re LIVING in your vehicle. 
• Spare Key Magnet  – We only had to use this once, but if you lock your keys in the RV or campervan, it’s nice to have a spare hidden somewhere underneath. 
• Reflective windshield cover  – We always tried to park in the shade, but when there was none, we used this to keep the heat out. And it worked wonderfully!
• Campervan window covers – To cover the windows in the rest of your van, you’ll want to make sure you have some sort of black out shades. We just so happen to have a tutorial for DIY campervan window covers that work perfect and saved us a ton of money!

Must-have travel gear

Whether we are backpacking around the globe or on a campervan road trip across the US, this is the packing list of our go-to travel essentials. If you want more info on what we have in our backpacks, read how we  pack for long term travel . 

• Packing cubes  – We have brought these babies all around the world and never leave home without them! In your van, you’ll have to keep things organized and packing cubes keep your clothes compact and in one place.
• Collapsible backpack  – This backpack stuffs down to fit inside one small pocket, yet when it’s open, it carries a surprising amount of gear. It’s great for day hikes and strolling through towns. 
• Collapsible cup  – It’s not only a cup. It’s a cereal bowl, guacamole server, beer basin, wine glass, or an ice cream dish. You are only limited by your imagination. 
• First Aid Kit  – It’s always a good idea to have a first aid kit when the unexpected happens. We carry a kit that is meant for a 4-day backpacking trip. 
• Microfiber towels  – These towels store up small and dry quickly. 

Related:  Check out our favorite gear in our  online storefront !

Travel toiletry essentials

Personal hygiene shouldn’t be neglected on the road!  Here are some of our packing list favorites that are specific for road tripping…

• Lush Solid Shampoo Bar  – I usually wash my hair every 3 days and this bar lasts me about 3 months. Lush always uses natural ingredients and the bar smells great! (This is also available at Lush stores for a cheaper price, but when you don’t live near a store, it’s good to know you can also order online!)
• Toiletry case  – Keep all your bottles, soaps and creams in an organized, easy-to-store case. 
• Body wipes  – For those nights that you can’t find a shower, it’s body wipes to the rescue! Honestly, we would probably shower every 3 to 4 days and body wipes would help keep us feeling fresh and clean for the days in between.
• Tiger Balm   – This stuff is best used on a hot day. Rub on your temples and back of your neck to really accelerate your cool down. This balm can also be used to relieve headaches and tension.
• Natural Bug Balm  – Forget about using Deet! This all-natural balm made with essential oils will keep you bug-free for hours. And it smells awesome!
• Dry shampoo – This is great for those days when you need a quick freshen up, but don’t have a shower in your van.

We make a living online so wherever we go, so do our electronics. These electronics and accessories made our campervan life much easier and they kept our gear safe. 

• Tip: We tried to only plug it in while the van was running to avoid draining the battery, but sometimes in a pinch, we’d plug it in for 10 to 20 minutes without the van running and the battery was fine.
• Anker Portable Charger PowerCore 20100  – We did a lot of research on external battery packs before landing on this one. We use this portable charger every day, whether we’re traveling or not. It can charge an iPhone up to 7 times without a recharge and has two USB ports so you can plug-in multiple devices at once. 
• USB chargers – Perhaps one of the most practical items on this list, this handy little number turns that 12V cigarette lighter in every van into a USB charging station.
• Bluetooth Speaker   – Waterproof and dust proof, our mini bluetooth speaker came with us everywhere to provide hiking jams and podcasts. 
• Electronics Travel Organizer  – Do you feel like you are always untangling cords? This tech organizer helps keep everything in place and is easy to store. 
• Pack Safe portable safe   – Whenever we’d go on a multiple day hiking trip, we would store our computers and other expensive electronics in our packable safe and lock it inside our campervan. Luckily, no one ever broke into our little home but it gave us piece of mind when we were days away from “Vinny the Van”. 
• Thule laptop case  – This sleek design keeps our MacBook Pro safe from drops and spills. We love the fun new colors!

Storage and Organization

When living in a campervan, you have to make use of every possible space . Which means you’ll get creative on ways to store and organize all your gear. Here are most of the products we used to keep our van nice and tidy. 

• Behind the door organizer  – Hanging this behind the driver’s seat right next to the “kitchen” makes a convenient place to store spices and oils. It’s a great way to stay organized and make use of vertical space. 
• Storage bins  – We stored our food, clothing and camping gear beneath our bed. Ben built the frame to accommodate storage containers. We used sturdy bins in varying sizes to fit all our storage needs.
• Hanging shoe storage  – Get some use out of your vertical space in your campervan and hang one of these bad boys from the ceiling so you can easily store shoes or other supplies. 
• Ottoman with storage  – Doubling as a coffee table, this ottoman comes in handy to add more storage space for things like jackets, blankets and other puffy gear. 
• Storage bin  between driver and passenger seat – Turn that empty area between your seats into a functional and organized storage space.
• Tip: Throw a couple of used dryer sheets into the laundry bag to keep the dirty clothes from smelling.

Psst! Check out our article on creative campervan storage solutions for more ideas!

Camping and backpacking gear

While we sleep on a comfy mattress in our campervan most nights on the road, we also go on quite a few backcountry excursions as well.

Sleeping beneath the stars at  Shi Shi Beach  and at a  remote hot spring in Idaho  were just a couple of our favorite memories from our first 3-month road trip in our campervan. These experiences wouldn’t have been possible if we hadn’t packed the right gear for getting into the wilderness.

If you’re planning on doing any wild camping when traveling in your campervan, you’ll want to be sure and pack these essentials.

• Our favorite backpacks: Osprey Renn 50  Men’s  /  Women’s
• Best budget backpack: REI Flash 55  Men’s  /  Women’s
• Our recommendation:  Marmot Tungsten 3P Tent with Footprint
• Best budget ultra-light sleeping bag: Redcamp ultra light sleeping bag
• Sleeping pad – These babies allow you to get a good night’s sleep, even when your campervan is not in sight! They pack up super small and are really light weight.
• Dry bag  (we always carry one with us for our valuables in case of rain)
• Camp stove/fuel – we love our  Jetboil !
• Water purification – we love our  Steripen , but find our  Grayl filtered water bottles  work really well on backpacking trips!
• Bear spray and bear-proof food storage – A must if camping anywhere near bear country!
• Rope – if you plan to hang your food bag, or for hanging sweaty/wet clothes
• Toilet kit – toilet paper, small shovel, bag for packing out TP, hand sanitizer

Psst! Find out how we find free camping in the USA when we’re on the road!

Optional gear for added comfort in your campervan

If your campervan or motorhome is going to be your new home for awhile, why not make it cozy. Add these to your van and make it more comfortable and fun!

Campervan decor items

• Luci solar powered inflatable LED light  – During the day, we’d place this solar light on our dashboard to charge by sunlight, and by nighttime it would be ready to light up our home. And it lasted for hours! No batteries, no hassle. 
• Tap lights  – Instead of using the car’s interior lights that would eventually drain the battery, we hung tap lights to the walls to give us light at night. 
• Fairy lights  – These fun, decorative wire lights worked great in the back of our van and gave it a homey touch. 
• Tip: You might want to consider getting a smaller darker “door” mat where you can put your shoes once you hop inside you campervan.
• Cushions for nook  – We picked up some soft all-season cushions at the thrift store that fit perfectly in the back of our van where we made a nook. 

Campervan essentials for outdoor living

Use these van life essentials to expand your living space beyond your van into the outdoors!

• Moon shade campervan awning – Having an awning and a blanket or mat to lay on the ground will open up your space a ton and give you a comfortable spot to hang out, even if the sun is shining bright or rain is sprinkling down. We really like our portable Moonshade that packs up to the size of a camping tent. This is one of those van accessories that we were so happy about once we finally decided to purchase.
• Rumpl Puffy Blanket  – Add a little color to your home on wheels with a Rumpl blanket. It’s super warm and packs up small. We used this on top of our comforter for extra warmth on cold nights.
• Compact camp chairs  – An essential item for #vanlife. Having a camp chair (or two!) is a super handy way to “expand” your livable space and be able to spend more time in nature.
• ENO Hammock – We were gifted a 2-person hammock for our wedding, and it was one of the best presents we received! It has brought us so many memories and has traveled all around the world with us.
• Yoga mat   – Get your downward dog on and have a good stretch. Tiny home living can get a little tight, so it’s good to loosen those muscles at local parks. 

Campervan essentials for heating and cooling

• USB fan  – We needed this fan when we were in Utah during the summer. Wow, was it hot! This fan was a life-saver, giving us a nice breeze at night. All we had to do is plug it into our Anker battery pack, and it would start working. 
• Chargeable fan  – Smaller and more portable fan that we could bring camping in our tent. 
• Magnetic bug screen – If you plan on camping in wild areas, you might want to consider getting magnetic mosquito curtains for your sliding door. This will allow you to keep the door open and catch the sweet, sweet breeze, while also keeping those pesky bugs out.
• Word of warning: Turn on a fan or crack a window when running this and don’t let it run overnight. This device has safety features (it turns off if tipped over), but we still recommend just running it intermittently when needed to be safe. And it’s pretty powerful, so we haven’t felt the need to run it
• Heated blanket – Keep them cozy with a heated blanket that’s meant to be used in vehicles (aka with a 12V hookup).

Are you (or someone you know) thinking about making the move to campervan life?

Lucky for you, we have TONS of resources on converting your own campervan and living the #vanlife. Check out our  Ultimate Guide to Van Life  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Living in a Van: Road Trip Budget & Daily Costs of Vanlife
• How to Plan an Epic USA Road Trip
• 19 Eco Friendly Road Trip Tips
• 14 Inspiring Campervan Experts and Their Advice for You

Be sure to check out our  Van Conversion Academy  to  save time & money  and get you on the road faster!

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We want to hear from you!

What do you think about our campervan essentials packing list? Are there any products you love? What’s your favorite van life gear you think we should add? Let us know in the comments below!

Comments (11) on “ Campervan Essentials: The Ultimate Van Life Packing List ”

Your link to auto emergency kit doesn’t work.

Thank you for all this info. I am just beginning, bought the van, now to convert it.

The link to the natural bug repellant is no longer active. What is the product??

Hey Katherine, Thanks for letting us know. I’ve updated the link so it should work now. The product is called Badger Anti-Bug Balm. Let us know how you like it!

Hello! Please could you point me in the right direction to find the tutorial on how you converted that sink into a working one? Thanks! Selina

Hi. What did you use for internet coverage?

Hi thanks for this inspiring list which size rumple blanket do you recommend? Thanks again Nicky

Just compared your comprehensive list to ours and I missed one item off ours. The electronics travel bag is essential. We have a few cables galore and our electronics bag is essential. Thanks for the reminder.

A bag for all your cords is always helpful. Happy Travels!

and where is your porta pot?

No need for one if you’re staying at camp sites and traveling during the day. Just like any other road trip, you can stop off at gas stations or fast food restaurants to use their bathrooms. We looked into getting a porta pot but it would have been too big and messy.

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Packing List Essentials Packing List Essentials Chapter 9: Van Life Packing List Essentials

Packing just the essentials for van life is really your only option. Van dwelling allows for very little space, making it a huge challenge to successfully pack everything you think you need. Here is a good rule of thumb: Don’t bring anything that you’re not going to use on a weekly basis unless it’s an “in case of emergency” item. If you’re going on your second road trip, leave everything behind you didn’t use at least several times on the first!

Our Favorite Van Life Essentials

Scroll to the bottom for the complete list of van life essentials and PDF packing list.

Van Safety Essentials

Portable Carbon Monoxide Detector ( on Amazon )

A carbon monoxide detector is a necessity and potentially life-saving item to have in your camper van. It’s portable, battery-powered, and uses an electrochemical sensor to detect CO gas.

Roadside Emergency Kit ( on Amazon )

Breakdowns are inevitable when traveling long distances for a long period of time. If you’re in the middle of nowhere without any assistance, having the right resources on hand is essential. This emergency roadside kit has all the necessary tools in one small carrying bag.

Tire Air Compressor ( on Amazon )

When traveling hundreds or even thousands of miles, your tires are going to lose some pressure, especially if you’re traveling over rough terrain. An air compressor is essential when you could be hundreds of miles away from a gas station. Having enough air in your tires will improve your precious MPGs as well!

NOCO GB40 1000amp Car Jump Starter Pack ( on Amazon )

Picture this: You’ve found the perfect camp spot, miles and miles from anywhere, you awake in the morning only to realize you left your van’s lights on all night and the battery’s dead. Oops. That’s why having a jump starter pack on board can be a lifesaver, but if you think you don’t have space for a bulky piece of equipment then think again. The GB40 from NOCO fits into a car glovebox and can jump-start an engine 20 times on a single charge. You might never need it, but it’s good to know it’s there.

CARTMAN 148 Piece Tool Set ( on Amazon )

There are always things to fix in a van whether it’s a loose screw or a busted hose and having even a basic toolkit in hand can save you on big trips to the garage later on. This 148 piece toolkit from CARTMAN has all the spanners, hex keys and screwdrivers you would need to work on your engine or just do a few bits of DIY around your tiny home.

Fix-A-Flat Tire Inflator ( on Amazon )

An essential item for any car or van, an instant tire repair in a can, can get you out of a sticky situation easily. If you get a flat simply connect it to your tire’s inflation valve and press the button. It will release a substance to repair the puncture and air to reinflate the tire, although you may need two cans for larger wheels. Keep a couple of these in your trunk at all times- you’ll be glad you did.

Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communication Device ( on Amazon )

If you plan on doing any backpacking or long hikes in areas with poor cell reception, a Garmen satellite communication device is a must-have. It allows you to send SOS messages which will alert Garmin’s coordination center. It has TracBack routing to help you find your way back, it allows you to send text messages, and you can share your location with friends and family members. You can also pair it with other Garmin devices, and access the Garmin app for topographical mapping, courses, and activities.

Apple AirTag ( on Amazon )

In the unlikely event that your van gets stolen, or the more likely event that you forgot where you parked one day, an AirTag is a cheap way to track down your van.

Compact Fire Extinguisher ( on Amazon )

Having a fire extinguisher is essential for every camper van. This extinguisher is safe for electrical fires, cooking oil, batteries, and vehicle fuel.

Heavy Duty Car Jack ( on Amazon )

If your van doesn’t already have a jack, you will definitely need one. You will want to confirm the weight of your van before purchasing a jack. This jack can lift up to 6,600 lbs which will work for most cargo vans.

Outdoor/adventure Medical Kit ( on Amazon )

When you’re planning on spending time off the grid, it’s essential to have an emergency medical kit at your fingertips. This kit has all the basic essential items for almost any situation.

Van Kitchen Essentials

Coleman Portable Gas Stove ( on Amazon )

A Coleman Stove is perfect for van life as it’s very affordable, works very well, and is lightweight. After using it many times I can confirm it’s very easy to use and has a collapsible lid and side protectors to avoid grease from splattering in your van, and if you’re using it outside it helps protect from the wind blowing out the flame. It also has two independently adjustable burners and a grate that can be removed for cleaning. This is my favorite option for cooking, but if you would like to check out more stoves, you can visit our Camper Van Cooking article .

Dometic CFX3 fridge/freezer ( on Amazon )

You can only live off of dry foods for so long. Therefore, a portable fridge or cooler is a necessity for your van kitchen. The Dometic CFX Fridge/Freezers are arguably the best on the market. They’re reasonably affordable, incredibly energy efficient, and durable. You can learn more about portable fridges in our article on the best camper van fridges .

Yeti Rambler 46 oz Bottle ( on Amazon )

This has been my go-to water bottle for years and it hasn’t let me down. It’s stainless steel and vacuum-insulated to keep water cold or keep coffee hot for hours.

REDCAMP 4 Gallon Water Container With Spigot ( on Amazon )

Having a means to carry water whether it’s for drinking, washing or just a reserve is essential to life in a van. Taking along even a 4 gallon container can be a big help if you suddenly find your tanks running low, and the spigot on the bottom makes dispensing super easy.

Aeropress Go Travel Coffee Press Kit ( on Amazon )

The Aeropress makes coffee prep so easy. You can choose between 8oz of regular coffee or 1-3 espresso shots and brews in just a minute.

Organic Meal Replacement ( on Amazon )

Odds are you will be off the grid at some point during your travels. This may make it difficult to find and keep vegetables and other healthy foods fresh at all times. An organic meal replacement such as this one from Orgain is an easy way to get all of your essential nutrients in times of need.

Van Technology Essentials

Renogy 200 Watt Solar Panel Kit ( on Amazon )

Solar panels are the most efficient and cost-effective way to provide power for your electronics. I’m a big fan of Renogy solar panels. The kit makes it easy to install and they have multiple controller options depending on your needs.

Anker Portable Power Station ( on Amazon )

A portable power station is a must-have item to keep your gadgets charged. This power station for Anker has 2 AC outlets, 2 USB outlets, and a car socket to power many devices at once.

Portable Clip-on Fan w/ USB Charger ( on Amazon )

Unless you have a roof vent fan , your van is going to get hot in the summer months. A fan is a necessity for van life and makes it easier to sleep at night and keeps air circulating in your van.

JBL Portable Waterproof Speaker ( on Amazon )

A portable waterproof speaker is essential for life on the road. When you find yourself staying at a campground, some jams are required around the campfire.

Anker PowerCore 10,000 mAh Portable Charger ( on Amazon )

Keeping your devices charged up on the go is important, and having a portable power bank is a simple way to do this both in and outside the van. This portable charger from Anger is compact, durable, and comes with one USB port although they are available with up to three for charging multiple devices at once.

Lighting Ever Rechargeable Camping Lantern ( on Amazon )

Everybody should have one decent flashlight in their van or car and this camping lantern from Lighting Ever is perfect for just about anything. It has an incredibly bright flashlight, a white lantern and a flashing red emergency light, it’s waterproof, but best of all it’s USB-rechargeable so no batteries are required, and it even doubles as a portable power bank.

Hygiene Essentials

Portable Collapsable Toilet ( on Amazon )

Somewhere to do your business is essential when on the road. You’ll ideally want something collapsible to save space in your van. This toilet is easy to clean, easy to fold, is sturdy, and comes with bags and a carrying case.

Bissell Handheld Vaccum ( on Amazon )

Your van is going to get dirty in every crack and crevice. A broom doesn’t get the job done. A small handheld vacuum does the trick and doesn’t take up much space.

Hozelock Pump Shower ( on Amazon )

A portable shower such as a Hozelock is a van life essential. This shower is super affordable and requires just a few hand pumps to keep the water running for about 3 minutes. We talk more about the Hozelock and other portable shower options in our Showers and Toilets Chapter .

Biodegradable Soap ( on Amazon )

If you’re traveling in a camper van at some point or another you’re probably going to end up washing outdoors, whether it’s a camp shower or a dip in a lake, so make sure you invest in some eco-friendly biodegradable soap that won’t harm the environment- bonus points, you can wash dishes and clothes with it too!

Biodegradable Wet Wipes ( on Amazon )

Wet wipes are an essential item to have at all times. When there isn’t access to a public shower and the temperatures are low and unsuitable for a regular outdoor shower, you will be glad you have a backup solution. These wipes are toxin-free, biodegradable, and made from anti-bacterial essential oils. They’re also very large so you can easily clean your entire body.

Scrubba Portable Laundry Wash Bag ( on Amazon )

Going to the laundry mat is often impractical or completely unavailable depending on where you’re at. I’m a big fan of Scrubba’s because they can wash a couple of outfits at a time and they pack up really small. Read our full review of the best van life laundry options .

Miscellaneous Van Life Essentials

Fan-Tastic Vent Fan ( on Amazon )

A vent fan is a definite camper van essential. They will keep your van cool, especially at night when it’s not always safe to keep a window cracked. A great feature of a Fan-Tastic Fan is the rain sensor that shuts the vent when it gets wet. They’re affordable, stealthy, and not a pain to install.

Mr. Heater Buddy Indoor-Safe Heater  ( on Amazon )

Having a Mr. Heater Buddy is a lifesaver when camping in cold climates. It’s indoor-safe and will keep your camper van at a bearable temperature. It runs on propane and has an auto shut off feature if it gets tipped over or oxygen levels get too low. Keep in mind that it uses propane (attaches to mini propane canisters) so there is a risk of carbon monoxide. Mr. Heater recommends having a carbon monoxide alarm to be safe. You can check out more camper van heating options in our Best Camper Van Heaters article.

Wool Blanket ( on Amazon )

Wool blankets are a must if you’re traveling anywhere on the chillier side. They’re great at retaining heat and they don’t need to be cleaned as often because of their self-cleaning properties.

Wool Socks ( on Amazon )

I love wool socks for cold winter travel. They keep my feet extra toasty and I can wear them for a few days if need be without them getting stinky.

Packing Cubes ( on Amazon )

Packing cubes are an absolute essential for your camper van. Storage space is like gold in a van, so anything you can do to maximize a few extra square inches and keep things organized will keep your stress levels at bay.

Hiking Shoes (on Amazon Mens and Womens )

A nice pair of hiking shoes will soon become your go-to when living in a van, especially if you’re traveling in the winter to cold-weather destinations. These shoes from Merrell are the most comfortable hiking shoes I’ve worn, and they won’t fall apart on you. I used to work for Merrell so I’m a little biased, but there’s a reason why they’re the number one selling hiking shoe.

Solar String Lights ( on Amazon )

String lights set the mood and allow you to spend a little more time outside the van at night. These string lights provide 18 feet of cord, 20 hours of light per charge, and are solar powered or you can charge them with a USB.

Luci Solar Lanterns ( on Amazon )

Even if you have lights permanently installed in your van, these lights are still a great option because they make for a perfect bedside lamp! They’re solar-powered, so you can set them on your van’s dashboard during the day to charge. They’re inflatable so they can collapse small, and they also change colors so you can set the mood to your liking or put them on a color cycle (they have a regular white light color setting as well).

Camping Chair ( on Amazon )

You’re going to get bored of just sitting in your van pretty quickly. A compact camping chair takes up little room in your van and lets you relax and enjoy the outdoors.

REDCAMP Folding Table  ( on Amazon )

If you didn’t build a table during your van conversion, you’re going to need something lightweight and portable for eating, outdoor cooking, etc. This table is great because it’s affordable, durable, can fold up very small, and has adjustable height. It also comes with 2 little folding chairs.

Complete Van Life Essentials Packing List

We created a packing list PDF so you can check off items as you’re going through the packing process.

Kitchen Essentials (for 2 people)

• 2 travel mugs
• 1 large knife
• 1 large cooking spoon
• 1 sauce pan
• 2 cutting boards
• 1 pasta strainer
• 2 metal mixing bowls
• Bottle opener
• Plastic wrap
• Aluminum foil
• Biodegradable dish soap
• Dish strainer
• Sponges – when a sponge starts to get a little funky, instead of throwing it away, put it in the microwave for 1 minute to kill the bacteria on it.
• Box of baking soda
• Salt and pepper shakers – and other seasonings and spices
• Portable freezer/refrigerator
• Propane or electric stove

Tip: bringing few dishes/cooking supplies will force you to wash things immediately, so you don’t accumulate dirty dishes.

Check out some of our favorite kitchen accessories in our Kitchen Chapter .

Accessories

• Portable heater
• Portable AC unit
• Small tool kit
• Axe – for chopping wood, or fighting burglars, bears, etc.
• Small shovel
• Swiss army knife
• Mosquito spray
• First aid kit
• Smoke and carbon monoxide alarm
• Bug screen for side door or back door
• Blackout window covers or curtains
• A strong rope – You don’t need a rope until you need a rope!
• Fire starters
• Windshield ice scraper and brush
• Bungee cords
• Jumper cables
• Small fire extinguisher
• Small trash can
• Garbage bags
• Hand towels
• Large bath towels
• Pillow, sheets, blankets, sleeping bags
• Vacuum-insulated water bottle
• Large water tank
• Small broom
• Folding chairs
• Earplugs – if you have loud neighbors, or if passengers want to sleep while others are driving
• Your typical toiletries – no need to go into detail on this. You know what you need.
• Wipes – for your body, hands, countertops, etc.
• Plastic storage bins
• Lighter/matches
• Toilet paper
• Umbrella/poncho
• Birth certificate
• Social security card
• Paper cash and quarters
• Your van’s driving manual and car title
• 12V tire pump

Clothing / Wardrobe (for 1 person)

• 1 long sleeve thermal shirt
• 2 sweaters/hoodies
• Semi-formal clothing – Bring an outfit nice enough for attending a wedding but casual enough for other occasions like a date night.
• Jacket with multiple shells – It’s great to have layers that can be added or removed so it can be worn as a raincoat or winter coat.
• 1 pair of jeans
• 1 pair of athletic/sweatpants
• 7 pairs of socks
• 7 pairs of underwear
• 2 pairs of shorts
• 1 bathing suit
• Hiking shoes
• Flip flops/sandals
• Comfy driving shoes
• Baseball hat and a hat that will cover your neck

Clothing Tips

• Only bring 1 to 2 weeks worth of clothing
• During summer months, only bring one or two sweatshirts and pairs of pants. When it gets to the colder months, you can swap out your summer clothes for winter clothes and vice versa. You can keep your extra clothing in a self-storage facility, or a friend’s place if they’re kind enough to allow it.
• Only bring items that will match with all outfits
• Don’t bring clothing that will only serve one purpose
• You will be wearing the same outfits over and over, so make sure they are durable and comfortable
• Consider wearing clothing made out of merino wool. Merino wool doesn’t absorb odor like other fabrics, allowing you to wear the clothing for a much longer duration.

Laundry Things

• Laundry detergent
• Clothesline
• Clothes pins

Decorations

• Lights – Christmas style lights or lamps
• Curtains or tinted windows

Electronics & Electrical Equipment

• Solar Panel(s)
• Laptop with charger
• External Hard Drive for backing up photos and such
• Phones with chargers – If you’re traveling with other people, we recommend going with different service providers because your provider will have service in certain places where others don’t, and vice versa. This will come in handy when you need to contact someone or access the internet.
• USB car charger
• Cameras and gear
• Thumb drive
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Extension cord

Entertainment

• Podcasts and music – download on WiFi before you hit the road so you’re not using all your cell data
• Books – audiobooks
• Travel journal/notebooks
• Pens, pencils
• Playing cards

Visit our Storage chapter to see how you can maximize the space in your van.

Most of the items on our packing list are essential, although it will certainly vary depending on your needs. If you take a look at most of our other chapters, you may find additional necessities to bring in your van.

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I Did Van Life for 3 Years, and These Are the 17 Items You'll Regret Not Packing When You're on the Road

These essentials kept me safe, clean, and comfortable while roadtripping across the U.S., Canada, and New Zealand.

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Travel + Leisure / Reese Herrington

There’s no freer feeling than waking up at sunrise, setting your slippered feet on dew-soaked grass, and waiting for your coffee to percolate on the camp stove as you soak in the early-morning rays and the quiet of the morning. I was lucky enough to start most days this way as a full-time van lifer .

For three years, I lived out of various campervans while road tripping across the U.S., Canada, and New Zealand. I even spent nearly a year circumnavigating Australia in a four-by-four with a rooftop tent attached to it. My van life journey started with a 20-year-old minivan retrofitted with a futon mattress in the back. Since then, I’ve upgraded to a spacious cargo van with an indoor kitchenette and its own solar and water systems. 

Being a long-term camper comes with plenty of challenges. Even the basics — diet, personal hygiene, and keeping warm, cool, or dry — take a ton of work. Having good gear in your arsenal can make all of the difference. From a portable ceiling fan to a self-purifying water bottle and a multipurpose microfiber towel to my favorite cup holder-sized speaker , here are the 17 things that keep me comfy, clean, and safe while I’m on the road.

Ydytop Reusable Travel Utensils Set

It’s easy to fall into the trap of disposable plastics when you’re desperate for convenience. Personally, I can’t stand to throw anything away after a single use — not even a spoon — so I carry a pack of reusable cutlery with me everywhere that I go. These are super lightweight and made with eco-friendly bioplastic (primarily wheat straw). Plus, they’re so much more practical for camping than heavy duty metal utensils, which cause a commotion while I’m driving and weigh down my kit when I pack a picnic.

REI Co-op Multi Towel Lite

You might not be able to keep things as clean as you’d like to while camping, but you can at least keep them dry. A microfiber towel is absolutely, 100 percent essential — especially when you don’t get a sunny day to hang your towel outside on the clothesline. I like to hang mine inside my van or tent on rainy days, and it dries in a couple of hours. In addition to using them to dry yourself off post-shower, microfiber towels also come in handy for cleaning up kitchen spills, makeshift picnic blankets, wiping down van windows, and so much more. 

Victorinox Swiss Army Huntsman Pocket Knife

A multi-tool like the classic Victorinox Swiss Army Knife serves as a can opener, corkscrew, bottle popper, screwdriver, cutting knife, scissors, and more — all in one. You don’t know that you'll need a teeny-tiny wood saw until you do, and when that happens, this pocket-sized accessory will have you covered. Swiss Army Knives come in a wide range of sizes and with a multitude of tool variations included. This one has 15 functions and is on sale for 24 percent off at Amazon. 

Anker Soundcore Mini, Super-portable Bluetooth Speaker

Great for listening to audiobooks on long drives and playing Spotify very quietly at the campsite, this portable little speaker is ideally compact and lasts for days on a single charge. My van is too archaic to have Bluetooth capabilities, so my favorite part about this cylindrical speaker is that it fits perfectly in my cup holder. The FM radio setting also comes in handy when you don’t have cell service to stream your go-to playlist. 

Eno DoubleNest Hammock

What would camping be without a hammock to string between some trees and nap in under the shade? Just about any hammock will do, but Eno’s versions are known to be ultra-durable and packable. The nylon construction conveniently folds up into an attached pouch, perfect for cramming into extra-small nooks around the van. Just don’t forget to pack a pair of straps, as they aren’t included. 

Campsuds Outdoor Camping Soap

Soap is a hot topic of conversation in the camping community. According to Leave No Trace , the ultimate authority on sustainable outdoor recreation, “getting any soap in a water source is not acceptable or recommended” as the chemicals can alter minerals in the water and harm wildlife — and that also goes for discarding soap directly onto the ground. Keeping this in mind, always catch soapy water and dispose of it at a designated dump station, or at least in a sink or toilet. I like to use a multipurpose soap that’s as natural and biodegradable as possible. You can use Campsuds on dishes, your skin, clothes, and even your hair in a pinch.

Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240

There’s something special about disconnecting for a weekend, but when you live full-time in the outdoors, you need power to charge your phones, headphones, lights, and camera gear. I work remotely, so I need a reliable portable battery for my laptop, and Jackery Power Stations are the G.O.A.T. (greatest of all time). This one has two USB ports and a standard AC outlet that can be used at the same time. I have a Jackery solar panel to charge mine, but you can also charge it by plugging it into the wall or the lighter socket in your car. It’s a perfect entry-level power station and well worth the price (it also happens to be on double sale right now thanks to an on-site coupon). 

Teva Unisex ReEmber Slip-On Shoes

Embracing discomfort is a big part of van life and camping, in general, but I draw the line at wet feet. These smart Teva camp booties are perfect for slipping into first thing in the morning, when it’s cold out and the grass is covered in dew, and lounging around. They’re made with waterproof outers and collapsible heels for quick sliding on and kicking off. Think of them as cozy sweaters for your feet. They’re even made with recycled materials.

Gritin Rechargeable Clip-On Book Light

Nothing is cozier than wrapping up in a sleeping bag and diving into a good story before falling asleep under the stars. The less electronically tethered you are, the better when you’re working with limited or no power — and that means reading books on paper instead of a Kindle. It gets dark out there when you're away from the urban glow, so you’ll need an old-school book light for this bedtime ritual. One that charges quickly with a USB cable is preferable, which is why I recommend Amazon’s most popular version. It has more than 25,000 five-star ratings, comes in a range of colors, offers multiple light settings, and won't cost you more than $20. 

Craftend Collapsible 10-Liter Bucket

I use a collapsible bucket for washing dishes and clothes (again, making sure to dump the water into my van’s gray water tank or the campground’s designated dishwashing sink), gathering firewood and kindling, and, yes, even sometimes bathing. You never know when you’ll need a bucket, and this 10-liter one is sturdy, reliable, and easy to carry with its top handle. 

Tidewe Two-Piece Rain Suit

I see you scoffing at this rain suit. I get it. But trust me when I say that you’ll want full-body protection when the clouds break and you’re stuck outside frantically covering things around the campsite. Without waterproof clothes, you’d have to crawl into your tent or van in sopping-wet clothes, inevitably spreading around wetness that’s near impossible to clean up. It’s easiest to gear up in the rain and strip this waterproof shell off at the door. This suit is up for the rainfall with its high-density polyester, non-woven fabric, and seamed seals, which work together to keep water out. But, the suit is still breathable enough to let sweat escape should it need to. Thoughtful design features also protect you from the rain and wind, and when the suit isn't in use, it can be conveniently stored in a carrying pouch. 

Kipida 5-Gallon Solar Shower

The question that I get asked most frequently about traveling in a van is, “Where do you shower?” Personally, I bathe wherever and whenever I get the opportunity, which is almost daily. When I’m not at a campground or near a truck stop with public showers, you will find me out in the wild, standing under this bag in my swimsuit. Truthfully, solar showers sound a little more sophisticated than what they actually are. Most are simply black bags with a hose and shower head attached. The color and material are meant to absorb heat, but some work better than others. I like this one from Kipida, which has a temperature gauge on it and a handy pouch to hold soap and other shower accessories to make it feel like home.  

Noco Boost Plus GB40 1000A Car Battery Jump Starter

I have, many times, been stranded roadside with a dead van battery with no choice but to flag down a stranger for a jump. It’s not the safest method, especially as a woman traveling solo, so my family gifted me one of these portable jump starters. Now I can do the job myself. Its powerful, 1000-amp lithium battery can perform up to 20 jump starts in a single charge, according to the brand, and its 4.6-inch by 8.2-inch by 4.2-inch frame is small enough that it won't take up valuable storage space. 

G Good Gain Waterproof Picnic Blanket

Not everything about van life is as glamorous as Instagram makes it out to be, but I won’t lie — the daily picnics are pretty charming. You can easily romanticize mealtime by having breakfast or lunch alfresco. A special blanket with waterproof backing like this one from G Good is best for keeping everything, including your own backside, dry and clean. You can use it not just for picnicking, but also for beach lounging, outdoor concerts, camping, and more. 

BioLite Headlamp 200

Wearing a headlamp is so much more practical than holding a flashlight or your phone when you’re out after dark. Believe me, you’ll use it more than you imagine you will. When mine isn’t on my head, it’s usually strapped to the ceiling over my bed or in the cup holder of my van — a.k.a. always within reach so it's ready to go when I need it. If you're outdoorsy, a headlamp will come in handy when you're hiking, camping, and exploring past sunset. 

Coleman CPX 6 Lighted Tent Fan With Stand

Another luxury, this portable Coleman fan has kept me cool while camping at the Grand Canyon at the peak of summer and in the sticky humidity of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s a lifesaver for anyone who’s used to sleeping with the fan on. It requires D batteries, so you can bet that I keep plenty of those on hand, and can be hung from the ceiling or set on a surface with its fold-out stand. It even has a light in the center of it, so it really is just like a real ceiling fan — which is a functional way to add a homey touch to your van. 

Grayl 24-Ounce GeoPress Water Filter and Purifier Bottle

A water purification system is a must, even if you use it only in an emergency. You can pack a LifeStraw or a Sawyer filter , but I’m drawn to the convenience of having a purifier and water bottle all in one. According to the brand, the Grayl GeoPress Water Filter purifies “viruses, protozoa, bacteria, particulates, chemicals, and heavy metals” for peace of mind. You can use it to filter freshwater from a stream or to make sure that the "allegedly" potable water from your campsite is actually safe to drink.

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52 Best Van Life Essentials That Make Van Living Easier

Downsizing from an apartment or a house into a camper van doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice all of your comforts and conveniences. We learned this firsthand while living in our van, Benji, full time. Over the last few months, we’ve taken the time to find the best van life accessories! Thanks to these essentials, we have turned Benji from a regular camper van to a comfortable and cozy tiny home on wheels. 

*This post may contain affiliate links, as a result, we may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) on any bookings/purchases you make through the links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Read our full disclosure

Don’t leave your home without Travel Insurance! From the US?  We recommend   Allianz Travel Insurance,  a world leader in travel protection and  our trusted Travel Insurance partner  for the last 5 years. Allianz offers  Single Trip and Annual Travel Insurance Policies  that include medical coverage, trip cancellation, rental car insurance and more! (Benefits vary by state and by plan, so read your policy carefully!)  Not a US resident?  Consider  Safety Wing ,  a  budget friendly travel insurance provider  with travel insurance plans for Digital Nomads and travelers from all around the world.

We knew we wanted our van to be as  functional and homey  as possible, so we were very thoughtful about each and every item that earned its place in our cupboards. 

To help you in figuring out what you need in your van, we’ve put together this list of the 52  best van life essentials  that make van living easier.

Traveling Soon?  Here is a list of our favourite travel providers and accessories to help get you ready for your upcoming trip! Book Your Accommodation HERE Search for Great Tours HERE Get a Car Rental HERE Buy Travel Insurance HERE See our Favourite Camera Bag HERE Grab a Reusable Water Bottle HERE or a Filtration Straw HERE Order an eSim HERE

Van Life Kitchen Essentials

Here are all of the van life kitchen essentials that make our camper van, Benji, into a mobile kitchen that even a travelling chef would enjoy.

Induction Cooktop  

Instead of fussing with propane, we skipped the camp stove and went for a super speedy induction cooktop. It heats up quickly and is easy to tuck away when we’re not using it because it’s so compact, a great way to save money and space. 

This is perfect camper van equipment because it’s energy-efficient and is much safer to run in a small space than gas.

This 2.2 cubic feet RV fridge is surprisingly spacious and runs on DC power directly from our batteries. It only draws 40W, which is amazing considering it has a small freezer compartment too. The black exterior looks sleek and modern, and we never have to worry about propane or ammonia as you do with traditional RV fridges.

Natural Convection Toaster Oven

A toaster oven is a super versatile van life essential that’ll have you covered for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We use it every morning to make toast, and it’s the perfect van-sized oven to roast veggies, bake pizza, and even bake dessert! 

We pack ours away into the cupboard when we’re not using it. It’s also electric and runs off the same circuit as the rest of our appliances.

De’Longhi Nespresso Essenza Plus Machine

This isn’t just an espresso machine, but a coffee machine and a kettle all in one. The best thing about it is that it boils water in 30 seconds, so it’s perfect for tea and for boiling water for cooking without the need for a kettle. Tea lovers and lazy chef’s dreams! And it’s pretty good at making fancy coffee, too. 😉

Insulated Water Bottles

Our Hydro Flasks are our go-to when we want to keep our tea hot on a cold day or bring ice-cold water on a hike. We never have to worry about leakage, and the bottles are easy to carry around wherever we go. They come in lots of different sizes and cute colours, too!

Wall Mount Paper Towel Holder

When you’re living in a van, counter space is prime real estate. Vanlife products that give items a spot to live without taking up counter space, like this wall-mounted paper towel holder, are super helpful. 

The best part about this one is that it has a ratchet system so you can tear off paper towels easily with one hand. 

Wall Hanging Fruit Basket

Another great way to free up counter space is with these wall-mounted kitchen baskets. They’re perfect for storing fruit to prevent bouncing and bruising while we’re driving. They also look nice and modern, so you can put them anywhere. We use 2 of these on our kitchen wall and another one under our sink for storage. 

Silicone Placemats

These non-slip silicone placemats are great for protecting our table and countertops from hot pots and pans. They’re washable and roll up nicely to pack away into the cupboard.

READ NEXT:  12 Best Van Conversion Companies That Will Build Your Van for You

Wheat Straw Bowl

These wheat straw bowls are a triple threat: they look nice, they’re good for the environment, and they’re unbreakable. The wheat straw material is an amazing alternative to plastic but is just as durable and lightweight. These are perfect for bumpy rides and can withstand all the bumps that come with backroad driving and life in a van. 

Wheat Straw Plates  

Just like the bowls, these wheat straw plates are an eco-friendly alternative to plastic dishware. They’re versatile, durable, and look nice too. Definitely add these to your car living essentials packing list!

Collapsible Silicone Food Storage Container

With limited space, having van life gear that can collapse down to lay flat and tuck away when you’re not using it is really helpful. These collapsible food storage containers are made of silicone, so they’re durable and non-toxic. The four different sizes are great for storing our leftovers! They’re easy to clean and easy to store. We have 8 of them!

Compost Bin 

Finding a compost bin that’s compact and blocks odours well was really important in completing our van life kitchen. This slim 4-litre compost bin is the perfect solution. It has an air vent and comes with a mounting bracket so it can be secured while driving and not take up counter space. 

We’ve never had a problem with compost smells of leaks, so it’s been a perfect solution for our kitchen.

Collapsible Trash Can

We love this collapsible trash can that can hook onto any cupboard door and be completely flattened and out of the way when we’re not using it. 

It’s small enough not to be bulky but big enough to handle whatever garbage we create on a daily basis (we try to live low waste, but we are not zero waste yet!). This should be included on any list of campervan essentials. 

Self-Adhesive Natural Cork Shelf Liner

We lined our drawers and cabinets with this self-adhesive cork liner that looks great and helps keep things in place when we’re on the road. We love the look of cork and the fact that it’s an environmentally friendly renewable material. 

Adjustable Cabinet Shelf

Anything that creates more space in your tiny cupboards is on the van life essentials list for us. These adjustable cabinet shelves are an easy solution for adding shelf space to our cabinets. We use these for our toiletry cabinet, but they can be used for any kitchen/bathroom storage. 

Expandable Drawer Organizer

An expandable drawer organizer is the best way to store your cutlery. It keeps ours neat and organized. We love this eco-friendly bamboo tray because it’s versatile and looks great too.

Magnetic Spice Containers

Magnetic spice containers are perfect van life accessories for storing spices and other small bulk items. They offer an easy way to free up storage space and reduce your waste from unnecessary packaging. 

We buy our spices and dry goods in bulk. This set also comes with pre-made labels so you can keep everything nice and organized.

Black Quartz Sink

This durable and easy-to-clean quartz sink makes our kitchen look sleek and modern and can hold up to the wear and tear of van living. It’s the perfect size for washing our hands and dishes without taking up too much counter space.

Pull Out Sink Faucet

This black faucet matches our quartz sink and works just like a regular home faucet. It has a sprayer that you can pull out and a button for a convenient switch between spray or stream mode, perfect for a quick sink shower to rinse off shoes or sandy feet. The faucet swivels so you can make the most of all the space in your sink, which van lifers know is a huge perk.

Damascus Steel Knife

Everyone knows that cooking is made a lot easier when you have the right tools. This Damascus steel knife is a great versatile tool that makes meal prepping a breeze. It’s hand-forged, super sharp, and feels secure and comfortable in your hand.

Ceramic Knife Set  

Having a functional van kitchen means that we can’t have knives that dull easily since it’s not practical to carry a knife sharpener. We opted for more expensive ceramic knives to ensure that we always have sharp blades that are durable and rustproof.

Silicone Spatula Set

Silicone utensils are a great alternative to metal or plastic because they’re durable, they won’t scratch your pots and pans, and they’re easy to clean. The handles won’t heat up while you’re cooking, and cleaning is as simple as wiping them down with soap and water.

Essentials For Van Life: Water System

Having a functional water system and good plumbing is a big part of feeling like you’re living in a home and not just a vehicle. These water system components are excellent for van camping equipment.

Electric Water Heater

High on our van life essentials list is an on-demand electric water heater. Having hot water whenever we need it has been fantastic for cold days and for washing up properly. This mini 4-gallon water heater is easy to install and heats up in just 20 minutes. 

It is a bit of a power hog; it uses, on average, 50-100A of power with every use, but since we have plenty of juice in our batteries, it’s one of the best van life accessories we have!

RV Water Tank Filler With Shutoff Valve

Having a tank filler allows us to fill up our fresh water tank super fast and without worrying about any backflow in the line. This Camco filler has a shut-off valve so we can control the flow of water and be able to turn it off once the tank is full without having to run over to quickly turn the hose off.

READ NEXT:  How to Choose the Best Van for Camper Conversion

RV Recoil Hose  

This spring hose saves space by retracting into a small coil but extends to be very long when we need the extra reach. It’s super handy for being able to get water wherever we are without having to worry about storing a bulky hose.

Under Sink Water Filter System

Having a water filter system was a must for us since we fill up freshwater from lots of different sources that all have different chemical and mineral content. With a filter, we know that our water is clean and free of any traces of chemicals like chlorine and lead.

Camper Van Bedroom & Living Area Essentials

Having a comfortable bed and sitting area are van life essentials that make sleeping, hanging out, and going on a road trip much more enjoyable.

Scopema Swivel Seat

Installing a  Scopema Swivel Seat  in our Sprinter was a  GAME CHANGER , as it allowed us to create additional seating space inside the van when our elevator bed was down. The Swivel Seat allows you to rotate your driver or passenger side (or both) seats to face the back of the van when the van is not in motion. 

We got a passenger-side Scopema swivel seat designed specifically for our 2008 Sprinter from   The Swivel Shop . Getting the right swivel for our van made for super easy installation and ease of use. 

Zinus 4 Inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper  

To make our mattress, we used this 4-inch gel memory foam topper that is much denser and more body-conforming than regular foam. The gel memory foam is an amazing temperature regulator and it supports your body nicely. Our bed is now so comfortable, that we would choose it over most hotel beds – how many van lifers can say that? 

READ NEXT:  How to Build a CHEAP DIY Elevator Bed for Your Van Conversion

Latex Mattress Topper

Topping our mattress with this additional 2” topper makes our bed super comfy. We bought a king-size, cut it to fit our queen-size bed, and used the leftover pieces to make cushions for our front seats. Long drives are now super comfortable too! 

Bamboo Drawer Dividers

We love these bamboo drawer dividers for keeping our clothing drawers tidy and organized. These ones are awesome because they’re made of eco-friendly bamboo and they’re adjustable so they can fit in any drawer. 

Safety & Automotive Essentials

In addition to all of your living and cooking needs, some of the most important things on your van life packing list are your safety and automotive gear. 

Roadside Emergency Kit

Being prepared for whatever comes your way is a big part of living on the road. This roadside emergency kit comes with a portable air compressor, tow ropes, and a first aid kit among many other useful things and gives us peace of mind. 

Fire Extinguisher

This portable fire extinguisher is a lightweight aerosol can that’s easy to use and takes up very little space in our van. It’s the perfect option to keep in a car or van to protect yourself and your vehicle in the event of a fire.

Carbon Monoxide Detector & Fire Alarm

A carbon monoxide and smoke detector are campervan essentials that no van is complete without. We have a battery-powered alarm, so we don’t need to worry about wiring and can feel safe with this 2-in-1 detector. A carbon monoxide detector is especially important if you have any camping van equipment that uses propane.

Snow Tire Chains

A pair of snow tire chains are great to have on your camper essentials list if you’re ever in high-elevation or snowy areas. We’re travelling in Canada, so having tire chains is a given and is actually required for winter driving in British Columbia. 

Booster Cable

A set of reliable booster cables are van life necessities that you’ll probably need at some point—even if it’s to help someone else out. These are must-haves for any road trip or van life adventure. 

Folding Shovel

When it comes to van accessories for camping or any other outdoor adventure, a folding shovel is a handy tool to have. You can use it to shovel dirt or snow or take it with you when duty calls in the woods. This shovel is foldable so it’s portable and easy to carry.

READ NEXT:  20 Best Accessories For Campervans & VanLife

Essentials For Electronics & Van Life Gadgets

Although living in a van is all about living simply, having some nifty van life tech makes the experience that much more enjoyable.

Portable Speaker 

Whether we’re sitting by the fire, hanging out at the beach or just relaxing inside our van, this waterproof outdoor Bluetooth speaker is an awesome device to make sure we can listen to music or podcasts wherever we go. It’s durable for outdoor use, and the battery lasts a long time between charges.

Cell Phone Car Mount

Having your cell phone mounted in a sturdy location that allows you to use GPS while you’re on the road is super handy. This mount slides onto your air vents and holds your phone securely without having to fuss with suction cups or other mounts.

WiFi Range Extender 

Being able to work from our van wherever we are is an important part of our lifestyle. One of our top van life essentials is this WiFi range extender that boosts wifi signal reliability. It’s easy to set up works whether we’re at a campground with a weak signal or in a Walmart parking lot. 

12V Outlet & Socket Charger 

Between our laptops, camera equipment, phones and iPads, we have a ton of electronics that need to stay charged. Our van is outfitted with not one, not two, but 5(!!!) of these outlets and socket charges. There is one in every corner of the van and a few in our electronic drawers. 

Dimmable LED Puck Lights  

These dimmable LED lights serve as the main lighting source inside our van. They offer cool or warm lighting and are ideal for a work setting or relaxing evening. There are 10 brightness levels controlled by a remote, so we can match the light to our mood and control them from anywhere.

LED Strip Lights

We love how versatile these LED strip lights are with a million different colours for every mood. They’re programmable to turn on and off when we want and can be controlled with the click of a button from the remote or on our phones. 

Magnetic Cabinet Lights  

We use these magnetic lights inside of our cabinets to give more light. They’re motion-activated and can be recharged via USB, so no need for batteries. Plus, we can stick them on the side of our van like a camping lantern and give ourselves light outside while camping!

Van Life Power Essentials

Our solar system is the key to renewable energy while living in a van. Here is what we’ve got.

200W Solar Kit  

A solar kit has everything you need to get started and take the guesswork out of putting together your electrical system. We bought all the pieces separately at a local solar distributor in Canada, but 3 of these would be the equivalent of our solar setup. 

The kit comes with solar panels, a charge controller, and the wiring and mounting brackets you’ll need to connect to your batteries.

100Ah 12v Lithium Deep Cycle Battery

Along with the solar panels, your batteries are some of the most important components of an off-grid solar setup. We purchased our four lithium-ion batteries from a local supplier, but these are very similar to the ones we have. 

12-Volt Power Inverter

An inverter is essential for turning the DC power from your batteries into AC power for your appliances. This inverter is pretty quiet and gives us clean, pure sine wave power for all of our electrical needs. 

Portable Power Station

A must-have for van life, the Portable Power Station is a versatile all-in-one solution, you can even charge it on the go via a 12v power cord connected to your car battery while driving. With multiple outlets and USB ports, it charges devices and powers small 12V DC or 120V appliances, making it perfect for life on the road.

Camper Van Comfort Essentials

Adjusting to different temperatures and climates is all part of a travelling lifestyle. These van life essentials will help you stay comfortable along the way. 

Diesel Air Heater 

Travelling in Canada means we need a powerful heater to keep us warm in the winter. This diesel heater is a Webasto alternative for a fraction of the price that definitely delivers. It keeps us warm and cosy even at -20°C and creates dry heat, unlike propane furnaces like a Mr. Heater.

MaxxAir Dome Exhaust Fan

Having an exhaust fan is important for van lifers to prevent excess moisture and condensation. This dome exhaust fan works great in the bathroom to draw out moisture from the shower and keep our van mould-free.

MaxxAir Fan Deluxe

We have two of these 2-way fans that create great air circulation and help to regulate temperatures when it’s hot out. Airflow is key in preventing excess moisture, especially when you’re cooking or boiling water. We have one over our bed and one in the kitchen. 

Zero Breeze Mark II Air Conditioner

An air conditioner wasn’t originally on our list of camping van accessories, but after spending 2 hot summers adventuring around Canada, we learned that it was a must-add! We did a whole lot of research to find the   best AC for vanlife  and found  ZeroBreeze Mark II  – a  portable AC  perfect for our set-up. 

The  Zero Breeze Mark II  barely uses any power and can cool our entire sleeping area in a matter of minutes. It’s great for those sticky, hot days when the fan just doesn’t cut it. Plus, it’s completely portable, so you can use it anywhere.

ZeroBreeze Mark II is a  real air-conditioner  with a built-in 24V adaptive frequency micro compressor. It doesn’t require ice or water and runs on AC power when plugged into our power supply in the van, but it can also run off battery for 3-5 hours of portable usage.

Camping Chairs

Camping chairs offer on-the-go comfort with a foldable design and lightweight build, making them easy to store in tight spaces for a cozy seat wherever your van life adventures lead. Opt for camping chairs with built-in drink holders for easy access to your cold drinks or morning coffee during shortstops.

Camping Table

We recommend bringing along a camping table to make sure you don’t have to compromise on comfort. If you’re looking for a multi-purpose table, a camp roll table is a great choice that rolls up to chair size with adjustable legs for cooking, dining, or games. 

READ MORE:  Best Portable Camping ACs For Van Life

Bathroom & Cleaning Van Life Essentials

Separett tiny waterless toilet.

Having a toilet on board is essential for any van lifer. We started our van life journey with a portable toilet on board but hated how smelly it got after just a few uses. We looked at a number of composting toilet solutions but eventually decided on the  Separett Waterless Toilet.  And honestly, we LOVE IT! The separate is a unique toilet solution for the van, as it uses  no water, no chemicals, and no composting  yet keeps our bathroom smelling fresh even after a whole week of use.

The Separett Waterless Toilet is designed with 2 compartments, one for liquids and one for solids. Both compartments are kept shut when not in use, so there is no odour and no messy clean-up either. 

There is a light that indicates when the liquids need to be emptied. The liquid container is easy to pull out and dump into any sani station or regular toilet (no harmful chemicals inside, so it’s completely safe to dump into any sewer). The solids, along with toilet paper, can be dumped into a composting bin, similar to a doggy doo-doo bag. Easy and mess-free!

It’s one of our must-have items for vanlife, and if you’re in Canada, you can purchase one through a Canadian distributor,   Canadian Eco Products .  Trust us, it’s a worthy addition to your packing list! Van life products like these make living on the road comfortable and convenient.

Hanging Drying Rack 

Laundry days mean limited drying space, so we use this portable hanging drying rack that can hook on anywhere. It’s great for smaller items like socks and can tuck away easily when we’re not using it.

Shark WandVac Vacuum

A handheld vacuum is one of the van living essentials that we use way more than we’d ever think! It’s lightweight and portable while still being powerful enough to keep our beds and floors clean after a muddy hike or a messy day in the kitchen.

Pure Castile Soap

If you haven’t heard of Dr. Bronner’s Pure Castile Soap, you’re totally missing out. This is an all-in-one solution for washing dishes, body wash, shampoo, detergent, etc. It cuts grease and dirt even in cold water, and it’s biodegradable, making it one of our top van camping essentials.

These items have all helped to make van living easier and more comfortable for us as we travel the country in our campervan. We hope this list of the 52 best van life essentials helps you start planning your packing list once you’ve gone through the exciting process of choosing your van (link to van conversion article) so you can hit the road and start your adventure!

What Are Your Must-Have Items For Van Life?

READ NEXT:  10 Beautiful Sprinter Van Conversions To Inspire Your Build

About The Author

Oksana & Max St John

2 thoughts on “52 best van life essentials that make van living easier”.

You guys rock I’m inspired and I want to do the same to live in Canarias island

Really inspiring, just brought an old off-road trailer and your concepts are awesome. Looking forward to my sustainable adventures with a trailer concept similar to yours. Love the elevated bed and toilet ideas.

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101+ Motorhome Essentials You Need + Packing Checklist

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Motorhome Essentials List

Deciding what to take on your motorhome or campervan road trip is hard; it can make or break a holiday.

This essential motorhome accessories list has all of the campervan and motorhome must-haves, along with a handy motorhome packing list for you to print and lots of travel tips for life on the road. Go on, get packing!

Motorhome Guides & Checklists

• Are you a new motorhome owner?  >> Get all our motorhome beginner top tips and tricks here
• Taking your first motorhome trip? >> Read this before you go shopping for stuff for your new motorhome!
• Need tips on how to pack a motorhome or camper van? >> Read our guide to motorhome weights
• Looking for equipment and accessories that are fitted to your van? >> Read about top motorhome accessories & equipment
• All the motorhome and campervan gear in this post can be purchased from our Amazon accessory shop by clicking here , often with next day delivery.
• Get your FREE van packing lists and motorhome checklists here >>

First Motorhome Trip Essentials

Okay, let’s cut to the chase. You don’t need lots of special ‘motorhome’ kit, especially if you’re a motorhome beginner heading out on your first few trips.

This essential motorhome equipment list is what we recommend as a starting point. If you don’t use these motorhome accessories on your first trip you definitely will at some point in the future. Everything else you can take from home until you work out what you need to make life on the road comfortable.

• 25m mains extension lead
• Whistling gas kettle
• Levelling ramps
• 10l collapsible bucket
• Awning straps
• Unbreakable glasses
• Unbreakable tableware
• 20m food-grade hose
• 10l water carrier
• Toilet chemicals

Personal Motorhome Kit

• Clothes including cold weather gear if you’re away all year.
• Specialist clothes such as hiking or running gear if you’re so inclined!
• Shoes – we live in flip-flops and trainers but you may also need hiking boots and a water-sport shoe.
• Personal toiletries including your toothbrush. It is possible to have an  electric toothbrush  and charge through a pure sine wave inverter if you have one when you’re not hooked up, or use a  USB toothbrush charger (our latest buy!)
• Towels – one for showering and another for swimming,  microfibre towel if possible for quick drying.
• Bedding – pillows, duvet and sheets or sleeping bags. You may need specialist sheets to fit your motorhome beds or you could try a Duvalay or even a sleeping bag. If you make up your bed from cushions every night, you may also like a mattress topper to help you get a good night’s sleep. We like this  Silentnight extra thick topper .
• Undies and swimmers – van essentials and high on any camping checklist.
• Little things you can’t live without – we all have them!
• First Aid Kit – you have to carry a first aid kit by law in your camper van (in fact, any vehcile) but they are designed to manage RTA trauma. You aso need a range of painkillers, plasters, antiseptic cream and wipes,  antihistamines ,  Diaralyte ,  Deet style insect repellent and suncream as well as any regular medication you take. Think about what you might need depending on where you’re travelling.

RELATED POST: The Best Bedding for Motorhomes & Campervans

The Complete Guide for Motorhome Beginners

If you want all our beginner resources (and a few extras just for you) in one place, take a look at our ebook. With 100+ pages of tips, advice and practical information, this book brings all our learning into one easy-to-read, downloadable volume which you can take with you wherever you go.

Motorhome Garage Kit

• 10L bucket for disposing of waste water, carrying washing up (some people use a large bags for life), and general cleaning jobs – buckets really are true camper essentials! You can buy collapsible buckets like this one below.
• Cleaning Kit – motorhome cleaning products  and chemicals for your van, both inside and out.
• Broom/Dustpan & Brush – a telescopic or foldable one combined with a pan is great and easier to store.
• Clothes line – an essential item and we have a variety for every situation! Lines with ratchets are great as you can tighten them, we also have a small elasticated one with hooks which works well on bushes and is just large enough for towel and swimmers.
• Pegs and peg bag – we kept our begs in plastic bags for ages and then Phil bought me this weather resistant peg bag for Christmas. I’ll say no more.

RELATED POST: Motorhome Cleaning – The Best Methods & Products

• Portable washing machine  – we love this! It saves a fortune, gives us purpose and everyone stops for a chat when you’re doing the washing! We have the one pictured below, which is ideal if you’re  living in a motorhome  full-time or planning longer trips, but maybe not on the essential accessories list for a two week holiday! There are many smaller washing machines if you don’t have much space or  payload  is an issue. 
• Tools & spare parts  – a selection of screwdrivers, spanners and pliers, a socket set, hammer plus a variety of fixings and spare parts. Although if space is tight, you can of course buy anything you need wherever you travel.
• Tent pegs and camping mallet for your groundsheet, carpet and awning straps.
• Levelling ramps or chocks, unless you are lucky enough to have air suspension and levellers.  
• Awning straps – whether you have a drive-away awning that attaches via an awning rail, or a fitted awning, never underestimate the power of the wind, especially if you are wild camping on cliff tops! Awnings are super expensive (50x the price of the straps!) to replace so make sure you carry these essential awning accessories for peace of mind.

RELATED POST: Motorhome Washing Machines – Which Is Best for You?

• Water carriers  – a 10 litre carrier is the ideal size. Make sure that the fitting works with your tank opening and you can actually get the water in. This jerry can with a spout does a good job. Some people take a watering can, or a collapsible water container, but whatever you choose, these are essential campervan accessories.
• Hose pipe and fittings – 20m should be enough and you can buy the fittings as you go, we have amassed a collection of a dozen different screw on ones. We use a flat food grade water hose like the one in the photo, which uses minimal space but takes an age to fill our tank regardless of water pressure. Most places will have hose, but we prefer to use our own, you never know where the provided one has been!
• Waste hose – some motorhomes will take a sewer hose fitted to the waste outlet, which is great if you’re on a fully serviced pitch. There are many different types of grey waste outlet so this probably requires a visit to your DIY shop to find the right parts.
• Water purifying tablets  – there are lots of brands on the market, some better than others – we recommend Aqua Mega Tabs, below. Even if you don’t use your tank your drinking water supply, you should purify your fresh water.
• Water filter – if you decide not to drink bottled water, a water filter is a small investment, but very worthwhile. We recommend the Seagull IV Microfilter system which takes water from your existing supply and purifies it before delivering through an additional tap. Alternatively, there are some good on-tap models coming onto the market.
• Fresh water tank cleaner – we use Pro-Kleen Fresh Water Tank Cleaner .

RELATED POST: An Easy Guide to Motorhome Water Systems

• Electric cable and blue fittings – we suggest having a 25m extension cable – on some sites you can be quite a way from the nearest point. You will also need a European 2 pin to main site socket plug (for sites where there is no mains three pin site socket), the one is the photo is ideal. Remember not to tightly coil your electrical cable when in use, it could start a fire.
• Electrical Splitter – a power splitter is a bit of a motorhome essential for France, Germany or Spain if you stay on aires a lot, as often there are not always enough sockets for every motorhome or campervan using the facility.
• If you don’t have solar capacity , consider a portable power station like an Ecoflow Solar Generator . Brilliant for charging all your gadgets and using small appliances, and chargeable from a portable solar panel, car charger or wall plug, this is just like having a second leisure battery in your boot!
• Portable solar panel  – if you’re just looking for an extra boost, this  14 watt panel  is an efficient way to charge devices. 

RELATED POST: An Easy Guide to Motorhome Electrics

• Carpet or groundsheet – we use this Kampa breathable woven plastic one below – it’s been going strong for nearly five years!
• Doormat – to use if you’re not putting out your carpet or groundsheet and don’t want to track in mud/sand/dust/rain/snow – a bit of a motorhome must have in the UK!
• Toilet chemicals – portable toilet and  toilet cassette chemicals  if you use them to keep your cassette or black tank in good order. We don’t think special toilet paper is necessary, just buy a cheaper non-quilted one.
• Disposable gloves and disinfectant for emptying and cleaning your loo and waste tank – we also know someone who has a special pair of shorts just for toilet duties!
• A selection of bungees and straps … I’m not sure why but Phil says they are required camping kit, and I’m sure one day he’ll prove me right.
• Hand-held vacuum cleaner – not an essential but high on our campervan packing list!
• Pet accessories – pet paw cleaners for those muddy days.
• Spare vehicle fuses and bulbs – it would be daft not to!

RELATED POST: An Easy Guide to Motorhome Toilets

• Sugru  – this is amazing stuff and has hundreds of different uses.  Sugru  is mouldable glue which turns into rubber and one of the best campervan accessories when something breaks!
• Camping chairs  – these outdoor living essentials need to work for both lounging and dining. Recliners are good as they’re multi-purpose and some, like the Kampa chairs below, come with optional foot rests.
• Camping table – get the best outdoor table you can afford if you’re going to be spending a lot of time using it. Outdoor tables ideally need to be lightweight, foldable, adjustable and come with a storage bag, just like the one below.
• Awning lights or candles – campervan essentials for all those Insta images! This  Outdoor Revolution Lumi Light  doubles up as a mosquito repellent too. 
• Windbreak – maybe not essential but lots of people use them for privacy. We like the good quality Kampa Dometic Airbreak shown below for its ease of use and modular lightweight design, and this  Vango Family 4 pole windbreak  for its value for money.
• Privacy rooms  – these effectively create walls for your awning and as well as privacy they provide extra dry space if you’re remaining static for a few weeks. Privacy rooms are heavy and bulky though, so make sure you have enough capacity before purchasing. Also research carefully the make and model – there as many awnings as there are motorhome, campervan and caravan models!

Van Life Kitchen Kit

• Kettle – the number one item on our essential motorhome kit list! We use a stove top but  12v kettles  are available, if you are intending to be mainly on site with electric hook up, or have a large leisure battery capacity and an inverter. You could use a pan if storage is an issue. We also have a teapot, but this is probably an indulgence.
• Saucepans – we use these MasterClass motorhome cooking essentials, they have a removable handle and one size fits all lid, so they stack really well.
• Cadac – our main method of cooking, this is stored in a carry bag in a side bin and used most days – for us it’s one of the best motorhome accessories we’ve ever owned. We love our Carri Chef, but there are many other Cadac sizes and options, as well as other alternative methods of motorhome cooking including portable grills, portable barbecues, a simple camping stove and all-in-one pots and devices. For the last year, we’ve been using the Cadac 2 Cook 2 Pro Delux because it fits our space better than the round style. Both are great options but the latter does give slightly more versatility.

RELATED POST: Motorhome & Campervan Cooking Tips, Tricks & Equipment

• Washing up bowl – a collapsible one is ideal if you need to store it when travelling.
• Cutlery – because we wash up after each meal and do not dump the dirties in a dishwasher, we really only need two sets, but have four just in case we have visitors.
• Tableware – we were using recycled bamboo but read about it releasing toxins so have gone back to melamine. We do use cheap ceramic mugs from Ikea though, I can’t drink my tea out of plastic!
• Glasses – we use these stylish metal ones for everything, they are perfect for van life and make great motorhome gifts if you’re looking for inspiration.
• Knives, cooking utensils and gadgets – I think we all have preferred utensils and gadgets, we have nothing special, just what we would use at home like a tin opener and scissors. The corkscrew and bottle opener are at the top of our campervan essentials list!
• Folding chopping board – something like this one which is lightweight but durable and easy to store.
• Herb and Spice Storage Bags – we love these small bags  for our kitchen supplies and they are so much lighter than glass containers.
• Suction Cups – things that once bought, become invaluable. We use these suction cups with hooks for hanging tea towels, cups and utensils, and have a couple in the shower too.
• Water Bottles  – a flask is a must if you hike and like a sandwich with a cup of tea for lunch!  We also carry a  water bottle  each, handy for when we’re driving, hiking and cycling. The ones with the flip lids are great for driving, and the insulated ones good for active days in hot countries.

RELATED POST: All the Best Motorhome Kitchen Accessories

Gadgets for Campervan Travel

• GoPro Hero 11 Black – for recording all your campervan trip adventures! Read this informative review for everything you need to know. It’s also a good idea to check that your motorhome insurance covers you for gadgets like this, which are expensive to replace.
• DJI Mini Drone – we just swapped our Mavic Air drone for a Mini 2. Weighing in at under 250g, meaning you can fly it almost anywhere (but check out the  rules of the country  you’re in), this is the drone of choice for motorhomers. If you don’t want to spend this much, why not check out the  best drones for under £300 ?
• Camera – we’re trying to get away from using iPhones and love this Canon entry level camera which is easy to use and well put together which we use to take snaps on all our incredible road trips . It also gets great reviews on Amazon.

RELATED POST: The Best Motorhome Gadgets (that you’ll actually use!)

• TV accessories – a TV stick  or  AV adaptor  for streaming TV if you don’t have or want to use satellite TV. We’ve been using an Amazon Firestick for a couple of years now and it’s pretty bulletproof, and you can tether or hotspot from your cell phone.
• Music Streamer  – If you enjoy listening to music and want to stream Spotify or Apple Music through your van radio, the best thing is a bluetooth FM transmitter. Just tune the gadget in to your radio and you can stream all your music apps and receive hands free calls. How clever is that?
• Bluetooth speaker – if you prefer to stream straight from your phone, then a portable mini blue tooth speaker is the best option.
• Prevent drain on your leisure batteries when you’re not hooked up with one of these folding solar panels, enough to charge three devices at a time for the power of the sun!

RELATED POST: Motorhome TV – Five Ways to Watch in Your Van

Cool Camping Gear

Motorhome Touring Guides

Motorhoming in France: Your Complete Touring Guide for 2024

Campervanning in Norway – Tips, Routes & Destinations 2024

Motorhoming in Italy: Your Complete 2024 Guide

Campervanning in Portugal: Complete Guide for 2024

Motorhoming in Spain: Your Complete Guide for 2024

Motorhoming in Germany: Your Complete Touring Guide for 2024

Planning Your Turkey Motorhome Adventure

Motorhome & Campervan Greece – Complete Guide

Motorhoming & Campervanning in Wales – Complete Guide

The Ultimate Guide to Motorhoming & Campervanning in Scotland

Motorhoming in Ireland – A Complete Guide

The Best Motorhome Holidays in Europe

How to Take a North Coast 500 Motorhome Trip

The 21 Best Motorhome Routes in the UK for an Amazing Adventure!

Europe by Motorhome: The Best & Only Touring Guide You Need!

The Best Destinations for Motorhome & Campervan Holidays in France

Planning Your Morocco Motorhome Adventure

Campervanning New Zealand: Literally Everything You Need to Know!

Motorhome safety equipment.

• First Aid Kit –  required to be carried in vehicles by law in all European countries.
• Camper vans and motorhomes need a UK sticker like this one (required from 28th September 2021 to replace the old-style GB sticker, unless you have a new style UK numberplate).
• Head-light adaptors if you’re heading to Europe.
• French stickers – Angles Morts stickers if you’re driving a motorhome over 3,500kg in France.
• Fire extinguisher and a fire blanket like the ones below. We carry two fire extinguishers, one in the cab area and one in the hab area, but one is plenty for a smaller van.
• CO alarm – we highly recommend that you have a carbon monoxide alarm to monitor for any issues with your gas powered equipment , especially in such a confined space. This carbon monoxide detector is combined with a heat alarm and has a ten year battery life.
• Smoke and heat alarms – essential motorhome and campervan equipment to keep you safe in your home on wheels.
• Warning triangle – from 2024, you’ll be required by law to carry an emergency warning light in Spain, instead of a warning triangle.
• Hi vis vests – one for the driver and each passenger. Ideally you’ll also have breakdown cover and won’t need to use these too much!
• Torch – of course!
• Pepper spray – you can buy pepper spray on Ebay, we carry two small cans for when we’re motorhome wild camping.
• Safe – we have a campervan safe fitted. You only need a small space and there are places in all vans where you can fit one, ideally on an inner wall.

RELATED POST: Staying Safe & Legal in Your Motorhome

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Helpful Motorhome Beginner Resources

Motorhome Tips for Beginners – Essential Know How for Motorhome Life

How to Take Your First Motorhome Trip

The Best Motorhome Gadgets (that you will actually use!)

Other motorhome & camper van essentials.

• Storage boxes  –  felt storage boxes  are a great way to store all your little bits and pieces and they don’t rattle or scratch and can be lifted from high cupboards easily. 
• Organisation – packing cubes  are perfect for van life. Ideal for small clothing items or bits and pieces, and can be stacked in overhead storage areas easily. Look out for ones with protected or rubber zips if you’re worried about the insides of your cupboards being scratched.
• Command Tape – this is one of our best camper accessories and one of the best ways to secure hooks and pictures – in fact anything you want to fix to a wall – and will not mark the interior surface of your van.
• We carry a small selection of stationery which gets used all the time!
• Vanlife books to inspire you on the road! Check out our top vanlife and motorhome books for inspiration and information.
• Maps and guide books (if you can spare the weight).
• Games and cards – UNO is a must!! Check out these  other games like Uno  for a bit of variety.
• Picnic blanket , sun shade and cool bag for those days at the beach.
• Sewing kit – this one is the perfect size for motorhome travel.
• Chargers and cables to charge your mobile phone and devices. A multi-way charging plug is one of the best accessories for campervans as typically, they do not have many plug sockets.
• If you work on the road , use a  surge protector  230v plug when you’re charging your laptop. European campsite electrics are generally good, but it’s worth being safe from any issues with supply. 
• Shower gadget – a great find, this  nifty shower attachment  stops you having to continually press the pesky button on campsite showers, we wouldn’t be without one each.

RELATED POST: 20 Amazingly Simple Camper Hacks

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• Camping tips

22 Van Life Essentials You Need for a Seamless Adventure

A complete guide of useful van life essentials you need for indoor and outdoor comfort, proper cooking, safety and recreation.

Jeremy Sudibyo

Anyone who spent some time in an RV Rental or camper van knows that bringing van life essentials makes all the difference. A casual campervanner will bring the basics for road safety, comfort, and things needed to eat and sleep in an RV.

Take your RV road trip to the next level and get a taste of the van life by personalizing your experience. Add a personal touch to your interior, bring the right items to stay on the road longer, and make your adventure unforgettable with the right extras.

Essentials for the living area & comfort

Going from casual vacationer to van life enthusiast starts by making your living area homely.  Large modern RVs  are extremely user-friendly and well equipped, but their prefab looks require a personal touch. 

Blankets are van essentials for many reasons. As a clothing item, use them as a coat, poncho, duval, or kilt. On picnics, blankets are unmissable. With a belt, you can turn a blanket into a bag. Together with a stick and a few stones, a blanket turns into a tent. 

As for your living area, adding a blanket just makes it so much more comfy and colourful.

2. String lights

Why string lights when camper vans are outfitted with energy-efficient led lights? Because you want to create a cosy atmosphere!   Candles are impractical, especially given the increased risk of knocking one over in the limited living space of a van. String lights are easy to use (especially when they come with batteries) and create a nice atmosphere.

While you’ll have plenty of nature to your disposal when living the van life, plants do make a home homely. Add a few plants to your RV’s living area. Tiny plants like succulents or cute cacti. Or fresh herbs to be used in the kitchen. Use small hanging pots so they don’t fall while driving or keep them in a kitchen rack if you have those. 

Outdoor van life essentials

If you think that trading a house for a van means less living space, you’re looking at it the wrong way. The van life facilitates living in nature and when spending a great deal of your time outside you need less space inside. The following items help you make the outdoors your extended living room. 

4. Outdoor table and chairs

An effective way to spend more time outside and increase your living space is by adding outdoor furniture. Camping tables and chairs just so happen to be our most rented extra!

A hammock strung between two trees is just about the best way to comfortably lounge in nature. Hammocks are easy to bring and often fold into a pocket-sized bag. Bring one because you’re bound to find two trees that beg for a hammock to be hung between. 

6. Sleeping bags

It’s a starry night after a hot day and that summer breeze is rocking you straight to sleep. Spread out a blanket and spend a night under the stars with a sleeping bag, because why not?

City dwellers will comment on how dark it gets away from civilization. Bringing a lantern is vital if you want to do anything outside at night. Solar-powered lanterns charge during daytime to be used at night.  

8. Pocket knife

A versatile tool that you’ll end up using more than anything else listed here. Once you have one, you’ll soon find plenty of reasons to take out the swiss army knife and go full MacGyver. 

Hygiene essentials

9. portable toilet.

While semi-integrated RVs and CUV’s will have built-in bathrooms, smaller camper vans usually don’t. In the latter case, bring a portable toilet. Don’t forget to bring an extra chemical tab and always empty your toilet cassette in designated disposal points.

10. Portable shower

Going to bed without a shower after an intense day of hiking dusty trails is suboptimal. And so is not showering for a week straight. If your camper van doesn’t have a built-in shower, bring a portable shower for your sake and for those around you. 

11. Mosquito repellent

Stay near a lake in summer and you’ll likely get assaulted by hordes of mosquitoes. There are a few ways to deter them from doing so. First, mosquito repellents with DEET are a very effective way of protecting yourself from mosquito bites. 

For those who prefer natural products, lemon eucalyptus essential oil proves a powerful deterrent. Mix one to ten parts with a carrier oil. Lastly, get a door and window screens installed in your RV to not have to bother with any of the above while inside.

12. Eco-friendly detergents and soaps

Staying clean means staying sane. Because the truth is that living in a vehicle you’re only one degree removed from being a hobo. If you’re in nature, using eco-friendly soaps and detergents means you don’t impact the environment with your stay. 

Make sure that your products aren’t just organic or sustainably produced, but that they are non-toxic to the environment and don’t affect groundwater acidity. 

13. Medical kit

Anything can happen on a road trip and you want to be prepared in case of emergencies. Trying out the van life, you’ll visit remote places where you are your own best help. Bring an emergency kit to play it safe. 

Kitchen van life essentials

With a bit of creativity in your cooking workflow, an RV kitchenette is as good as any kitchen. To use it to its full potential, you’ll need the right RV kitchen essentials. We cover most of the kitchen basics in our RV essentials post. Here we list necessary additions to take your camper from van to home on wheels. 

14. Chef’s knives

Cooking in an RV is great fun, but cheap thrift-store knives take a large part of the fun away. They’re even dangerous. Bring good knives on the road to make yourself at home in the kitchen and prepare meals efficiently. Just make sure to stow your kitchen knives properly, like with a knife roll. 

15. Herbs and spices

Bring a few spices on the road and you can turn any otherwise bland meal into a feast. They’ll make a meal taste of home or exotic places. Collect local spices while travelling and buy local produce to really get a feel for the region. 

16. Grill pan

Smokey, slightly charred food tastes of adventure and fuels your inner explorer. You can’t afford to not bring one when you’re serious about the van life. 

For all the above reasons and more (like the warmth and comfort of glowing embers), you should bring a small barbeque too. 

18. Coffee press

On a short road trip you can get away with ordering coffee out, but the van life is fueled by piping hot coffee to be enjoyed while overlooking natural vistas. Our favourite way of brewing coffee is with an Italian press.

Extras for living the van life

Your van will get super comfy with the right equipment, but it’s important to remember that your van is secondary in the van life. Adventure comes first. Adopt the lifestyle of a van lifer with the van life elements below: 

19. Surfboard

New to surfing? If water is your element, a surfboard is a must-have addition to your van life. Surfing offers a unique and intimate way of studying the ocean and camper van travels completely support the surf lifestyle. 

Travel around the coast and observe the ocean change shapes endlessly, picking out the tides and swells for the best waves. Stay when the waves are good, or move on to another spot to see if the waves are firing there. When renting an RV, see if you can rent a surfboard as an extra!

20. Folding bikes

Folding bikes are a great way to increase your range of motion. Leave your camper van at the city outskirts and bike to the centre. Or cycle from the campground to the local grocery store. In both cases, taking a big RV would be impractical. 

21. Yoga mat

When you’re on the road for longer periods, getting enough exercise is crucial. Especially stretching your body is important for keeping healthy, with all that sitting behind a steering wheel and all. Practice yoga to balance body and mind, pilates for strength and posture (though that could be said for yoga too), or do a tabata workout routine. All you need is a yoga mat.

Bring your furry friend buddy on the adventure of a lifetime. Indie Campers allows for pets on all road trips with Indie Campers own fleet in exchange for a pet-cleaning fee post-trip.

About the Autor

Seasonal vanlifer on a permanent holiday. Does occasional creative work to sustain his diet of beachside margaritas and paperback thrills.

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The Ultimate Campervan Packing List — Camping Essentials

We’ve got this at the top of our list, as these are the items that you really can’t forget! Many other motorhome essentials can be purchased on the way, but without your documents, you won’t get very far. If you’re hiring a campervan, you’ll probably need to ask the owner for many of these documents, so you can use our checklist to ensure that they haven’t forgotten any either!

• Driving license
• Insurance papers
• Health insurance details
• Registration certificate
• Motorhome documents

Also, have a list of necessary phone numbers on hand! This may seem redundant, but in an emergency, you’ll be so grateful to not be searching through your phone or email for necessary contact details. The one time that you need it makes all the difference.

• Your insurance details 
• Your emergency contact's contact details
• Breakdown service / AA

Money matters

Sadly we don’t live in a free society just yet, so you’ll need a way to pay during your trip. This may seem obvious enough, but don’t forget your debit card and credit card! But also consider if you may need cash, as not everywhere has the option to pay by card, including some campsites. 

If you’re leaving the UK, also consider what payment methods are accepted there, will you need to exchange money or is it preferable to take it out there? You may also need to consider toll roads, as it is far more budget-friendly to arrange your toll badge ahead of time. On that note, also check for environmental zones - such as the London Low Emission Zone! You don’t want to come home to a nasty surprise.

• Credit card
• Toll badges

Electronics

Everything is replaceable, but some things cost more than others to replace! These include your electronics. You may be thinking that since you’re going camping, you won’t need any electronics, but I don’t think you realise everything is included in this category.

Did you know that phone chargers are the most forgotten item in hotel rooms? Consider how often you’ve misplaced your own charger, now imagine a campervan holiday without being able to easily get in touch. We always recommend packing your charger in your hand luggage, where it is easy to reach in case of need. 

Electronics are about more than need, it’s also about heightening your trip. Being able to connect to Bluetooth to play your own road trip playlist, being able to set an alarm to enjoy your days on the road, and navigating to find your way to the campsite! Here are some electronics that deserve a spot on your motorhome essentials list.

• Camera + charger
• Mobile phone + charger
• Navigation system + charger
• Earphones/ headphones
• Power strips, adapters and extension cords
• iPad/ tablet + charger
• Power bank — never be caught off guard without a battery!

Personal care

People often hold quite an outdated view of camping, dirt and poor hygiene, but with a motorhome, this certainly doesn’t need to be the case. You want to enjoy your holiday, and that requires you to feel good about yourself and clean. A lot of these items seem obvious, but it’s shocking how often we forget something as simple as our toothbrush. Whilst many things can be obtained on the way, nothing beats having it on hand the minute you need it. It will definitely depend on the length of your trip and your plans for it, so adjust our motorhome essentials list as required.

• Glasses or contact lenses + spare
• Painkillers
• Bug spray + relief
• Nail clippers + nail scissors
• First aid kit
• Razor + shaving cream
• Shampoo + conditioner
• Toothbrush 
• Toilet paper
• Tiger balm (ideal for a hot day or muscle ache after hiking!)

Cold weather

Whether you’re heading out in autumn or winter, or going somewhere far colder, preparing for the worst is a must-do! Few things create more discomfort than being cold, even in your cosy motorhome. So be sure to consider the cold-weather motorhome packing list. Even if you’re going somewhere warm, always bring that extra sweater! No one has ever regretted having that back-up cosy jumper. 

• Hat/ beanie

• Antifrost screen cover
• Antifrost spray
• Campervan heater
• Fleece blanket
• Frost scraper
• Ski supplies
• Snow tyres and snow chains

Warm weather

Warm weather is ideal for a holiday, but not being prepared for it can lead to quite a bit of discomfort. Make sure you’ve considered the possible weather, even if rain or cold is predicted. If it’s summer and likely to be warm, consider this when finding your ideal campsite - maybe one with a pool or plenty of space for your awning?

• Ice cube tray
• Insect repellent
• Mosquito net
• Tick remover

Motorhome essentials

There are a few things that you should always have lying around in your campervan. If you’re renting a van, these will likely be included, but there is always no harm in checking! 

• Maps (You never know when navigation will fail!)
• Oil and coolant
• Levelling ramps
• Parking disc
• Warning triangle
• Toilet chemicals
• Safety vests
• Adapters (preferably world travel adapter)
• Wheel clamp
• Hi-visibility vests
• Backup maps
• Disposable gloves and disinfectant
• Hand-held vacuum
• Spare light bulbs

Campsite essentials

Travelling in a campervan isn’t just about being on the road, as a great deal of time is spent on campsites. It’s hard to rival the tranquil nature of a campsite, where you can relax inside and outside of your motorhome, meet fellow travellers if you’d like, or simply enjoy some quiet time to yourself. Campsites vary in the facilities they offer, but even so, there are things you should always consider bringing to a campsite, and it can really put a dent in your plans if you’re missing on of these essentials. Camping isn’t all fun and games, there are chores and cleaning to be done, so make sure to have everything you need for exactly that.

• Barbecue tongs
• Camping chairs
• Camping table
• Pillowcases
• Spare blanket
• Picnic blanket
• Chair cushions
• Dustpan and brush
• Firepit + wood
• Washline + pegs
• Laundry basket
• Pocket knife

Camping isn’t all fun and games, but it certainly does require some! You’re on holiday, so make sure that your extensive motorhome packing list includes things for enjoying yourself. Whilst you’ll ideally spend most of your time outside, you must always prepare for the worst (weather). Also for longer trips, there will be times when you don’t feel like chatting and need something else to do. These are just suggestions to ensure you consider all your options, but choose which you have/would like.

• Board games
• Game console
• Books/ e-reader
• Toys/ floaties for the swimming pool
• Newspapers/magazines
• Football/ volleyball/ baseball
• Colouring/sketchbook + pencils

Cooking and kitchen

One of the perks of motorhome travel is the ability to cook your own meals. It can save you a lot of money and time on the trip and ensures you eat healthy and delicious meals. 

If you’re hiring a motorhome, you can contact the owner to see what’s already offered in the motorhome, this will allow you to avoid ending up with double items. If in doubt, bring it! The first time I went camping in a motorhome, I brought a lovely bottle of red wine to celebrate… only to realise that I didn’t have a corkscrew opener in the van! Luckily, my ‘neighbours’ were happy to lend me theirs, but if I had been wild camping I would’ve certainly struggled. The second time, I came prepared with a corkscrew, only to realise that I didn’t bring a lighter for candles. There is always something, but there doesn’t have to be!

• Lighter/ matches 
• Rubbish bin + bags
• Sponge/ scrubbing brush
• Cups/ glasses
• Sandwich bags / tupperware
• Drying rack
• Corkscrew + bottle opener
• Cooling blocks
• Coffee/ tea/ sugar/ milk
• Coffee appliance
• Measuring jug
• Scouring pads
• Cutting board
• Soap + soap dish
• Salt, pepper & more herbs
• Water bottle

On the road

Driving is part of the journey, and a great part of it too! You’ll likely rack up quite a few miles in your motorhome, so make sure to prepare for the drive as well as the destination. Keep the following in mind for when you’re on the road:

• Accessible snacks
• Spare jumper

Your personal bag or suitcase 

Now, this comes down to personal taste, as well as how long you’ll be going on holiday. If you’re going on holiday for a weekend, a clean shirt every day is great, but if you’re heading out for three weeks, you certainly don’t need twenty-one shirts. Consider what your plans are, whether you’ll be getting dirty or sweating, or spending more time inside. Will your campsite offer washing services? Will you be shopping? Be realistic about what you’ll wear, but also remember that better safe than sorry!

• Towels (swimming + washing)
• Spare warm/cold clothing in case
• Sweatpants and warm socks for the evening 
• Rain clothing, an umbrella
• Closed shoes
• Flip flops for on the campsite
• Walking shoes and socks

This is an extremely extensive campervan holiday checklist, on which not all items will apply to you, but I'll help you consider what to bring yourself and design your trip to be everything you want. All that's left to pack — or grab — is your very own home on wheels to pack all these essentials into. Find  the ideal motorhome for your trip right here on Goboony.   

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Essential camper van packing list + printable checklist

Sharing is caring!

If you’re new to van life and even if you’re not, it’s handy to have a camper van packing list to hand before you hit the road. In this post you’ll find our must-have camper van equipment that we’ve used for camping or outdoor holidays over the years.

Some of it has been recycled from our caravanning years. However, there were a few extras we needed to buy to ensure we were self sufficient for longer trips when we bought our VW day van.

For anyone else getting ready to hit the road, here’s our camper van checklist for weekends, festivals and longer trips.

Scroll to the bottom for a printable camper van packing list.

*This post contains affiliate links*

Want more ideas for family holidays and days out? Read my tips for smashing family travel and sign up for my newsletter .

If you haven’t yet bought your camper or are in the market for a new one, why not also take a look at my post about buying a camper van or day van .

I can also help if you are looking for camper van gifts to buy a new van owner.

Contents - jump to what you'd like to know

Essential camper van packing list

Here’s the camper van kit we always bring with us. Scroll to the botton to download a printable version of this packing list.

Camping accessories for your camper van checklist

Here’s some of the basic camping equipment we always have in the van for our trips away:

• Electric hook up cable *
• Water container

Also check out my essential caravan equipment list which has a lot of interchangeable kit.

Camper van accessories for your living space

Whether we are caravanning or camping we like having some outdoor space that’s undercover where we can all relax in the day and the adults can sit after the kids have gone to bed.

For this space outside the camper van we’d recommend the following:  

• Awning – we have had the OLPRO Cocoon Breeze inflatable awning – a huge awning with plenty of room for sitting indoors, storage and extra sleeping space. More recently we have down-sized to the OLPRO Loopo Breeze camper van awning * which just gives us the living space we want.
• Carpet *  
• Fan heater and/or oil radiator *
• Camping chairs *
• Picnic blanket – always handy for extra seating
• Folding table
• Lantern or light strip *
• Hammock – bring a bit of luxury to your camping space

Here’s the OLPRO Cocoon Breeze awning in action:

When you are on electric hook up it’s also useful to have an outdoor power cable you can use to power lights, heaters and other ‘nice to have’ electrics like chargers.

Camping cooking and kitchen equipment

Our VW T5 is technically a day van as it doesn’t come with a fitted kitchen, so we need to bring extra cooking equipment.  

Even if you have got a fully kitted out kitchen you may want to bring these extras for alfresco cooking:

• Barbecue or camping stove
• Matches/lighter
• Cool box * and ice blocks
• Windbreak *
• Crockery – you may want to opt for  a melamine set * which is robust but more attractive than plastic
• Cooking utensils – don’t forget barbecue tools
• Bottle opener
• Measuring jug
• Kitchen scissors
• Oven gloves
• Glasswear – or you can get some attractive  plastic glasses * which are always more practical with kids
• Pots and pans *
• Cutting board and knives
• Gas kettle * – this is essential if you plan to go off electric hook-up (EHU)
• Bin and bin bags
• Washing up bowl
• Washing up sponge
• Washing up liquid
• Antibacterial wipes or spray and cloth
• Toilet rolls.

We have a camping chest which is always packed with cutlery, crockery, etc.  

We resupply it with anti-bacterial wipes, washing up liquid and cloth, toilet rolls and bin bags in between trips.

Sleeping in the van

Moving from a caravan to a camper has meant a whole new approach to our sleeping arrangements.

But we’ve been really happy with how it’s worked out in both our VW vans.

In the first our girls had a Cabunk twin bunk bed system in the front of the van. Meanwhile Mr Tin Box and I had the Forty Winks Kombi Bed in the back of the van. This set up made us feel much less on top of each other than I thought we might.  

Read more about how we slept a family of four in our first  VW Transporter beds .

In our second camper van we have a pop top. This is where the girls sleep while Mr Tin Box and I have a rock and roll bed system in the back.

We really like having the pop top as the girls were starting to out grow the Cabunk. Pushing the bed up also gives us a lot more head room when we are using the van during the day.

As well as the bed systems I’d suggest packing the following:

• Mattress and topper
• Sleeping bags or a coverless duvet  

One of the newest additions to our camping gear for the van includes window blinds and a thermal windscreen cover.

Another new addition to our camping gear is a porta potti *. This will be our night time toilet solution. Don’t forget toilet chemicals if you also pack your own potty!  

Van life with kids

Our girls think van life is awesome. They love their bed and having lots of opportunity to dash around outdoors.

They are also massive fans of the fact we can fit in their scooters and bikes if they want. No tough choices when it comes to packing!

Now they are beyond the baby and toddler years we don’t pack an awful lot of stuff for them apart from their ‘rides’ and clothes.

If you are going out in a camper with babies or toddlers you might like to check out these baby camping essentials that we also used when we had a caravan.

Van life with a pet

The brilliant thing about camper van holidays, just like caravan and camping breaks, is that Tin Box Dog can come with us.

Here’s her holiday essentials:

• Long lead and stake

What to wear when on a camper van holiday  

Outdoor holidays and camping trips call for layers and waterproofs . However, you also need to be conscious of the space limitations.  

We love using packing cubes * to maximise space and keep things ordered. In the van we can easily fit everyone’s basic clothes for a week away into a medium sized suitcase when using packing cubes.

Take a look at this packing list for some ideas of the type of clothes to pack for holidays in the UK and Europe .

Outside of the case we’d also bring:

• Walking shoes
• Wellington boots

What to bring for using the toilet block

We take our van to campsites with toilet blocks as we are not totally self sufficient. With that in mind, here’s what we pack for using the onsite bathrooms:

• A wash bag you can hang up *
• Dressing gown

First aid kit

We always have a first aid kit with us whatever holidays we are going on. Here’s my list of essential first aid items .

Printable camper van packing list

I do love making life easier for my fellow camper-vanners, so I’ve created a printable packing list for you to download.

Click on the link to view it or hit the download button.

More camping tips

Read more of our camping and caravan posts:

• A no nonsense caravan packing list
• Family camping checklist for tent holidays
• How to organise your caravan
• A guide to caravan insurance
• Camping games for the whole family
• Coleman Event Dome XL review
• PRIMA Classic Canopy Air Awning 390 review
• Bailey Phoenix 650 family caravan review
• What to pack when glamping with kids
• Things you need when caravanning with a baby
• What to pack when caravanning with a toddler
• Gifts for campers
• Gifts for campervan owners

Do you have any van life tips for us? What’s on your essential camper van equipment checklist?

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36 Camper Essentials You Need for Your Next Road Trip

These top-rated products are total game changers, from maximizing small spaces to on-the-go creature comforts.

Related To:

There's been a massive return to the great American road trip and camper life in the last decade. Whether that's loading up the RV for a couple of weeks or pulling a pop-up trailer for a long weekend, more and more travelers are trying the camper trend for vacation. However, if you're a nomad newbie, it can be a bit of an adjustment — from navigating campground rules to living and sleeping in the same, small space. But with the right packing list, life on the road is a breeze. We've rounded up the best products and gadgets to take your camper to the next level, from clever storage hacks to tiny kitchen appliances to luxe upgrades that make all the difference. Take a look at our favorites below and gear up for your next camper trip.

STORAGE FOR CAMPERS ON THE GO

RVs have come a long way in terms of multi-purpose storage, but if you have a smaller camper or camper trailer, there are no fancy pull-outs or hidden drawers. Whatever your rig, you can make it feel larger and hack more storage by using common household organizational items in new ways. This over-the-door hanger is technically meant for organizing baby diapers and clothes, but the see-through cloth shelves are perfect for organizing your stuff in a camper, too. And double suction cup hooks are an absolute must. They're not just for towels! You can hang keys, cords, flashlights, jackets, kitchen utensils and so much more. Collapsible bins are also super handy for storing shoes, rain jackets and umbrellas by the door so that you don't track dirt or water into the camper.

30L Collapsible Storage Box Crates

SANNO Suction Cup Double Hooks

mDesign Over-Cabinet-Door Organizer

Over-the-Door Hanging Organizer

Stainless Steel Magnetic Knife Holder

Mesh Pop Up Square Laundry Hamper

Zafit Bedside Caddy Organizer

Small-space essentials for campers.

Just like an apartment or a tiny house, living in a camper is all about maximizing space. This ottoman seat is actually a storage bin and a coffee table. The cushion flips over to reveal a tabletop. If you need a work or homework station but don't have space for a desk, this bed computer desk is the real deal. It's got USB ports, a tiny fan and a secret pull-out drawer for storing pens. Another challenge with campers is keeping it tidy. This cordless handheld vacuum folds in half and is outfitted with some serious suction power for tackling any dirt or mud you might track into the camper. And to keep cooking smells or RV toilet smells at bay, these mini scented discs from Arm & Hammer are perfect for small camper trashcans.

Better Homes & Gardens Storage Ottoman

Elekin Folding Portable Laptop Desk

BLACK+DECKER 20-Volt Handheld Vacuum

Motion Sensor LED Puck Battery Lights

Swivel Wall Mount Paper Towel Holder

Munchkin Arm & Hammer Air Fresheners

Hanging Portable Trash Bag Holder With Lid

Mini kitchen buys for rv trailers + campers.

One of the most challenging aspects of life on the road is cooking. Most campers are not outfitted with true kitchens. It's more like a hotel room kitchenette. But you really don't need a full oven to whip up good food. Several compact countertop appliances get the job done, from a travel-size blender (that is also great for soups) to this waffle maker (that can also be used as a panini press). But for the ultimate setup, this Ninja SP101 is basically a kitchen in a box. It can bake, roast, toast, dehydrate, air fry and keep food warm. As for dishes, you don't want to sacrifice counter space all the time for a dish rack, so invest in this handy collapsible one. It squishes down flat for easy storage when not in use.

Ninja SP101 Countertop Convection Oven

Mini Floral Print Waffle Maker

BlendJet 2 Portable Blender

Collapsible Dish Drying Rack

11-Piece Camp Kitchen Cooking Utensil Set

Portable Stainless Steel Spice Shaker Set

Stainless Steel Camping Silveware Set

Little luxuries for camping.

The great thing about camper life is that it affords you more creature comforts than traditional tent- or car-camping, however, it can still feel like you're roughing it. If you don't like the sound of that, there are several luxury travel products to make your camper feel more like a rustic hotel. Glamping must-have number one: the Coop Original Travel & Camp Pillow. It's the Internet's favorite pillow but in travel form with the ability to compress to half its size in a sack for minimal storage. Perhaps the most luxurious upgrade is this chrome spa showerhead from Oxygenics sized just for camper showers. It even comes with an installation kit for RV pipes. If your camper doesn't have a shower or if your shower is in the RV wet room (AKA the toilet is also in the shower) just forget showering altogether and take a bath! Yes, inflatable bathtubs are a thing, and Tubble is the most popular with an integrated headrest and cup holder. It only takes two minutes to inflate.

The Original Coop Travel Pillow With Sack

Oxygenics RV Chrome Showerhead + Hose

Tubble Royale Inflatable Bathtub

Herban Essentials Assorted Bag

Outdoor must-haves.

The best part about camping is turning your lot or campsite into a fun, outdoor space, and this is where it can really feel like you've got more square footage and room to stretch out. An outdoor rug not only gives you a barrier from bugs and sand but also helps create a clear vignette for your outdoor room. And for the focal point, a Solo Stove is worth the splurge. Its clean burn design means less smoke and nearly smoke-free smelling hair and clothes, which is a game-changer when you're living in tight quarters. The stainless steel design is very pretty, too. If you plan on staying connected while on the road and in the great outdoors, a portable generator is crucial. The Goal Zero Yeti is a great size and sweet spot of power for long weekends. It can charge multiple devices or simply just power a fan if it's hot outside.

Solo Stove Ranger + Stand

SAND MINE Reversible Outdoor Area Rug

Camping Folding Chair With Aluminum Side Table

Koble Neptune Portable LED Speaker Lantern

S'more Chrome Plated Steel Roaster

Goal Zero Yeti 500x Portable Power Station

Camco Pop-Up Outdoor Trash Container

Pest control for camping.

While campers and RVs offer far better protection against critters and bugs than a tent, it's still very easy for the great outdoors to get into your camper. Especially when there's food around. For general ant and roach prevention, Diatomaceous Earth is a great natural deterrent. If they've already found a way inside, this bait gel should do the trick. Just make sure that curious toddlers or pets can't get to it. And as for mosquitos, a Thermacell portable mosquito repeller is a must. No more bug spray or scented candles. This little doodad is DEET-free, scent-free, flame-free and lasts up to 12 hours. There's also a camp lantern version.

Thermacell MR300 Portable Mosquito Repeller

Thermacell Mosquito Repellent LED Lantern

HARRIS Diatomaceous Earth Insect Killer

Syngenta TRTD11568 Optigard Ant Bait Gel Box

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20 Awesome Van Camping Accessories: Tested and Approved

The essential camping gear for van life.

While traveling in our converted minivan, we have found a few travel accessories that we think are must-haves for any van or car camper.

Whether you are just starting out or have been on the road for a while, these best camper van accessories will help make your travels less stressful and more comfortable.

READ NEXT: WHY WE CHOSE A MINIVAN FOR TRAVEL

Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Some of the links included in this post are affiliate links and will provide me with a commission at no additional cost to you.

1. A Comfortable Mattress

I learned early on in my long-term travels whether it was in a hotel or in our van, night after night of no sleep is unacceptable.

Crankiness ensues, and so does an achy back or neck. It’s not fun and in turn, your attitude reflects it.

Good sleep can make or break a successful trip. It allows you to start off on the right foot in the right attitude.

Once we went from truck camping to minivan camping, the mattress was the first thing we purchased. We spent a lot of time researching and investigating what would work for us and in the end, we landed on two tri folding mattresses and we LOVE it.

A foldable mattress is one of the best van camping ideas we’ve had so far! 

2. Quick Dry Travel Towel

One of the best campervan accessories that make our lives easier is compact quick-drying travel towels .

Limited storage space is always an issue no matter what van camping setup you choose so small and easy-to-store towels are great.

3. Fridge or Cooler

You don’t necessarily need a fridge or cooler, but it makes life so much easier to have one. If you have space and are looking for adventure van accessories because you’ll be off the beaten path, I highly recommend it.

The cheapest and easiest option to keep your food fresh and your beer drinks cold is a cooler. Sort of the cheapest as in up-front cost. Buying ice adds up so it really depends on how much you are going to use it.

Since we are on the road six months out of the year and travel to remote areas, we chose this refrigerator that runs off 12vDC or 110vAC – it has currently been out of stock so I included a different link above to a similar fridge without a freezer. 

Watch our video below to see the layout!

4. Car Seat Organizer

Add additional compartments inside the van for extra space. We use these seat organizers to store our towels, pills, headlamps, and a few other small items. They have been sold out lately, so check out this two-pack for a cheaper price , but with great reviews. 

Hanging right over our mattress, it’s a must-have in your van camping accessories arsenal.

RELATED READING: BEST FREE CAMPING APPS FOR THE GREAT OUTDOORS

5. Coffee Maker & Travel Mug

There’s nothing like hot coffee in the morning to get you buzzing for the day. Pour it into a good thermos mug to keep it nice and hot!

There are a few options here:

Single serving coffee bags are the easiest option if you do not want to buy or store more equipment.

We started with instant coffee and then went to coffee bags. Even though it’s the easiest option, we appreciate good coffee so it didn’t stick.

If you are interested in quality-tasting  coffee, I would recommend either of the next two options.

A Single Serve Coffee Filter lays right over your mug with coffee grounds inside as you pour hot water into it.

The positive side of this contraption is that it is easy to clean and super small to store.

The negative is it only makes one cup at a time and the water temp cools down as you fill your cup.

The last option, which seems to be the favorite, is a French Press . It makes the best tasting coffee but takes up more space and is more difficult to clean.

6. Collapsible Storage Containers

Whether we use storage containers for leftovers or sandwiches while hiking, it’s always a good plan to pack them on your travels.

And collapsible containers take up less room when not being used.

7. Hanging Clothesline

Usually, we hit up laundromats so at first, we didn’t realize a portable clothesline would be handy. But as we traveled more, we realized we needed a clothesline for our towels to dry and the few times we hand washed items.

8. Additional Storage

Let’s see, how many times have I written the word “organize” and “space” so far?

That’s the key, though, with van camping. A set of drawers for the back of your van will help you stay organized. And sane.

I did not include a swing-away bike rack to the top van life essentials list since not everyone is a biker, but if you are it does make it much easier to get in and out of the back of the van. We searched for a base rack that could also transport a storage container with the bikes like the one linked here, but at the time it didn’t exist. 

9. Emergency Kit

Every car you drive, whether you are road-tripping or sleeping in it, should have an emergency roadside kit . Whether you make it yourself or purchase one don’t forget jumper cables, flares, a first-aid kit, duct tape, and an emergency blanket.

10. Car Jump Starter

Speaking of emergencies, a jump starter is good to have on hand in case the battery dies.

Before we bought the minivan, we borrowed a popup camper and hit the road for 80 days. We were lucky to have a jump start with us when our truck died in Banff National Park in Canada. Twice.

It can also be used to run a fan and charge phones at night if you don’t have electric-wired in the vehicle.

11. Sun Shade and Privacy Shades for the Windows

Keep the inside of your van cool with a sunshade for the front and back windows.

A foldable sunshade is easy to store when you are not using it and provides protection from the sun’s hot rays.

A shade in the back and inserts on the side windows not only helps keep the electronics like the fridge cool but provides extra privacy.

12. Shoe Holder

Plastic storage containers with snap-on lids work great for a shoe holder. They even fit right alongside our mattress on the inside!

If your space is limited, you can always keep them outside since they are weatherproof. Just remember to wipe them up before putting them back in the vehicle.

READ NEXT: DIY OUTDOOR BATHROOM FOR VAN CAMPING  

13. Flashlight

Our handy hanging flashlight is hooked on our clothesline above our heads so we never misplace it. It’s small and easy to carry when walking around the campground.

14. Window Screens

Keep the air circulating and the bugs and rain out with mesh window screens for the driver and passenger windows.

Because they are black mesh, it provides privacy as well.

15. Cell Phone Car Mount

I was recently thinking about how phones have become our ultimate travel buddy. One item that has the capability to take pictures, give directions, show reviews, and book campgrounds.

Van camping equals road-tripping and navigation tools like Google Maps and Waze have made our lives so much better.

A good phone holder makes navigating a cinch. No more arguing about directions!

16. 2-Burner Stove

Add a 2-burner stove with side panels for wind protection to your list for your cooking needs. It fits a 12-inch and 10-inch pan at the same time, each with different controls to adjust the burner temperature on each separately.

RELATED: EASY CAMPING RECIPES

17. Dr. Bronners Liquid Soap

Did you know Dr. Bronners Soap is an all-in-one type product? You can use it to wash your face, shampoo your hair, shave your face, and wash dishes and clothes.

Talk about a great accessory to have in a van camper!

18. Glass Treatment and Anti-Fog Combo

Improve visibility on the exterior during inclement weather and keep the windows on the interior from fogging overnight with glass treatment and anti-fog liquid.

19. Lantern

On our fall trip this year, we realized how helpful it is to have a lantern as an addition to our travel gear. With the sun setting so early, we found ourselves cooking in the dark many times.

20. Small Multitool

I cannot even count the number of times we’ve had to take out this tiny clip tool to get us out of a pinch.

Featuring a file, knife, Phillips screwdriver, bottle opener, quick-release clip, and pliers , is there anything it can’t fix?

Additional Conversion Van Accessories for Boondocking & Stealth Camping

A Portable 5 Gallon Toilet – A simple bucket-style design with a snap-on lid.

Hot Tip: Line the toilet with a garbage bag and use a little kitty litter at the bottom to keep the toilet grounded, to absorb the odor, and for easy removal. 

A Portable Solar Shower – Lightweight and foldable outdoor shower warmed by solar. 

A Pop-Up Privacy and Shower Tent – A spacious, water-repellent pop-up tent with mesh at the top for ventilation and a clothesline for hanging wet clothes or towels. It’s a perfect tent for privacy when showering, changing, or going to the bathroom (the portable toilet above fits great). 

Did Someone Say Giveaway? Add this Quick Dry Towel to Your Van Life Essentials List!

Sometimes things align and today we are talking about all the wonderful van life gear that we cannot live without on the road and number two happens to be our quick-drying microfiber towel.

We have teamed up with VENTURE 4TH to give away a towel to our readers that is great for camping, working out, swimming, and/or backpacking.

It is quick-drying, lightweight, and compact; a perfect travel companion!! It’s one of our picks for the best camper van accessories. 

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• How to Get Mail on the Road

How to Enter

UPDATE: THIS CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED. THE WINNER WAS CHOSEN ON NOVEMBER 14th, 2018.

Comment below on which travel accessory above you couldn’t live without on the road then click the widget to let us know you commented.

Please be sure to include a valid e-mail address because I will be using it to contact the winner. And don’t worry I will never sell your information and no spam will be sent!

One winner will be chosen at random. Must be a U.S. Resident and over 18 to enter.

Entry period ends at 8:00am CT on November 14th, 2018.

• About Author
• Latest Posts

Angela E. is a travel writer from the Chicagoland area who has visited all 50 states in the US and has traveled extensively around the world. She is passionate about exploring the great outdoors and hiking in particular. Her love for nature has taken her to some of the most beautiful locations on the planet. She has written extensively about her travels on her own website, Dang Travelers, and has been published in collaboration with other travel websites and multiple visitor bureaus around the country.

Latest posts from Angela

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37 Responses

I see that refrigerator is more longer available on Amazon. How do you power it? Ever think about a gozero?

Dang Travelers

I noticed that too. I will have to look for a similar one that we ordered. I think the manufacturer still sells it. Never heard of a Gozero but the fridge we have is powered by an auxiliary battery.

We loved our two burner stove on this last trip. It was an impulse by at Academy and boy, were we ever glad to have it for food and making tea. But now, that I’m looking at your list, a freaking clothesline would have been wonderful. It rained a lot when we went camping and we had clothes everywhere trying to dry.

We didn’t buy our clothesline until this last trip and it worked great!

I found an air mattress is my most important. My body doesn’t like sleeping on the hard ground or hard van floor anymore.

Good sleep is key!

First aid kit for sure!

Definitely necessary to have one of those!

Definitely a first aid kit!

Karen Paller

Air mattress!! I can’t handle the harder surfaces like I used to.

Us either! I used to be able to sleep anywhere.. not anymore!

I love the air mattress idea, i have not done mch car camping but I am considering it for long road trip next year. Thank you for the great ideas

I’ve never van camped, and would never have considered most of this! Like a shoe holder?! Who travels with a shoe holder?! But if you’re van camping, I guess it makes sense! Guess I’ll have to try van camping once in my life haha

LOL you sound like me when my husband first talked me into it!

This is a very comprehensive list of camper van accessories! We’ve had a camper van before and since we sold it… I miss it like crazy! So one of these days, we will switch back to traveling by campervan! I’m going to click away on your site because I love how compact your camper actually is. It’s just perfect!

Van camping is fun and we would love to try it sometime during our travels for sure. Happy to discover this must have list of accessories. While many of these are part of our backpacking gear already, most of them would be totally new to us like Collapsible Storage Containers, 2-Burner Stove, Fridge or Cooler. Was wondering how everything would fit into the van but as they say, pictures speak, that query was eased off 🙂

Kavita Favelle

I am utterly amazed at how much experienced van campers can pack in to a relatively small vehicle, and really ensure that life is comfortable and enjoyable. Many of the things you talk about I would never even think to consider, such as the all in one liquid soap or the various specialised storage items!

Melody Pittman

I’ve honestly, never in my life, considered sleeping in a van, though I did drive a Suburban for many years. How cool that you guys have this all figured out and it is not only neat, but efficient and cost effective. Well done. I love seeing your awesome travel adventures. 😉

Wow, that’s a lot! My last tour with the camper is 25 years back. For me the most important thing was a Porta Potty (toilet) and a cuddly sleeping bag. Everything else happened during the tour and was then bought.

Astrid Vinje

How do you keep your fridge running in the van? Do you have it hooked up to the van the whole time? Does it use up a lot of your car battery/gas that way? We did a road trip across the US this summer, and having a fridge in the car would have been so helpful!

The fridge runs on 12v DC (auto electrical system) or 110v AC (regular power outlet when camping with electric). Below the fridge we have a 100 amp hour battery that can power the fridge for 2 days. Whenever we drive anywhere the car’s alternator charges this extra ‘house’ battery. We also installed a battery isolator, which ensures the van battery never is depleted so it won’t die even if the house battery gets totally depleted. We drive around to see stuff almost daily so the house battery always is charged and in addition to the fridge we also power/charge cell phones, fans to cool us off on warmer nights etc without worrying about killing the Van’s starting battery.

Brilliant guide! I’m glad you had coffee covered – that would probably be the number one item on my list for packing ha ha! Also a comfy mattress can make all the difference to enduring a trip or enjoying a trip. And a clothes line of course, very important. I used to have a friend who had a permanent clothesline in the back of her car – even though she wasn’t van camping! And the other thing I like is lots of lights available so you can see what you’re doing!

What a great list. We love to camp, but it sure is a lot of work. This list will help us the next time we set out to go camping. I’m with you on a good mattress. One of the worst parts of traveling is having to adjust to a different mattress. I always lose sleep. I love the idea of a quick drying towel. We have been on many camping trips where our towels seem never to dry completely.

Carol Colborn

We RVed for full-time 8 years and these are all things we had to always have. Didn’t have those quick dry towels though. Those would have been so handy!

Hi, Thanks for taking the time to document your experiences! Would you mind revealing the brand of swing-away bike rack you are using? Thanks!

We bought a Yakima backswing. It can be used with any 2 inch hitch not just bike racks. https://amzn.to/2Rf0QZb

Hi my name is Ron Dale i build custom cars old school as well as custom vans. Have a compact life saver for you, they make a roll up solar panel for charging boat dock batteries and it is a battery tender so you can leave it hooked up while camping and it will maintain battery charge as well as handle in frequent loads. Hooks onto battery with alligator clip[s and it has the ability to be rolled up or laid flat, it is sealed for all weather.

Very cool Ron but we have a separate 100 aH house battery separated by a battery isolator so we don’t worry about our battery dying. We haven’t been using solar for about a year and a half now.

I found your videos on YouTube and came to visit your site.

As a family with four teenagers, my wife does not want to demolish the van for the two of us to go on a trip, so I’m paying close attention to people with Dodge or Chrysler vans that have the stow n go seats.

It looks like you removed your third row seat to increase storage size is that correct? If so what do you have underneath the refrigerator and your cabinets to the left to keep them above the lip of the compartment?

Hi Evan! Thanks for coming over to the site. Yes, we did remove the third row seating. We built a wood frame that holds the fridge and microwave and underneath is where we have the house battery. On the left where there is no frame, we have a big plastic tub that the 3-drawer set sits on top of.

Gee, thanks !! I am tricking out my new Van, andI seem to be taking all of your “20” suggestions to heart (wallet). I’ve slept on the tri-fold, used the phone holder, bought a super cooler, ordered seat back holder, jumper starter, Route 66 book, made a porta potty….and I’m not done yet. so thanks !! BiSh

That’s great BiSh! I’m so happy to help. Let us know how your adventures go!! Safe travels.

Gretchen and Karen

We are in the process of buying a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica and planning on a big road trip this summer. We were so excited to find your extremely helpful posts and videos! We have many years of experience tent camping so we want to keep things simple and non-electrical. We’re adding many of your recommendations to our shopping list, starting with the tri-fold mattress, and are looking into a Yeti cooler to maximize the time between ice purchases. Questions: if you didn’t have electrical hook-ups in your van, would you have considered putting the bed in the back part of the van? Pros and cons? Have you considered getting any kind of a screen house attachment or awning for the van? THANKS so much!

Hi guys! Thanks for reaching out. Yes, we did consider putting the bed in the back but decided against it with the kitchen set up but it’s definitely worth looking into as it could provide more space for storage. We thought about doing it and removing the chairs to store things but in the end decided against it. We have not looked into getting a screen attachment because we don’t usually leave the van parked for days while we explore. We typically drive to and from places during the day so we figured it would be annoying to take up and down. Let us know if you have any other questions! And reach out once you set yours up. It’s always fun to see what other people do.

Daniell dubord

I’m looking for fine mesh screens for my sliding door windows. That way I can sleep with all the windows down without worrying about bugs. Wondering if yall know where to find mesh for thoes large back windows?

Hi Daniell, Other than the small ones I recommend in the article (like this https://amzn.to/3KQV12n ) for the side windows, I’ve only seen these: https://amzn.to/43sfth5 . The screens are large and provide privacy as well. I’m not sure how well they work, as we haven’t tried them.

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10 Must-Have Camper Van Trip Essential Kit for the Ultimate Adventure

Picture yourself waking up to the gentle hum of nature, the crisp morning air filling your lungs, and the anticipation of another day on the open road. Camper van trips are a dream for adventurers seeking both freedom and comfort. These journeys offer a unique blend of exploration and coziness, allowing you to experience the beauty of the world while having all the necessities of home at your fingertips. But before you embark on this exhilarating journey, let’s delve deeper into the 10 must-have camper van trip essentials that will ensure your adventure is not only enjoyable but also hassle-free.

Table of Contents

1. Reliable Navigation System: Getting Lost Is a Thing of the Past

There’s an undeniable charm in taking unexpected turns and discovering hidden gems , but getting lost can quickly dampen the spirit of adventure. A reliable navigation system is your guiding star, ensuring you reach your destinations smoothly while leaving room for serendipity. While smartphone apps are convenient, investing in a dedicated GPS unit designed for RVs, such as the Garmin RV 780 , is a game-changer. This device offers real-time traffic updates, customized routes for larger vehicles, and a database of RV-specific points of interest, making navigation a breeze even in unfamiliar territories.

2. Comfortable Bedding: Restful Nights for Exciting Days

A restful night’s sleep is essential for an adventurous day ahead. Your camper van’s sleeping area deserves just as much attention as the rest of the vehicle. Whether you’re a fan of traditional beds or prefer the versatility of sleeping bags, prioritize comfort. Memory foam mattresses provide the coziness of home, while sleeping bags like the Teton Sports Mammoth Queen-Size Sleeping Bag can be adapted to various temperature ranges. Don’t forget to pack soft pillows and warm blankets to cocoon yourself in comfort, ensuring you wake up refreshed and ready for new explorations.

3. Efficient Cooking Gear: From Culinary Delights to Culinary Adventures

One of the joys of camper van travel is cooking hearty meals amidst breathtaking scenery. A well-equipped kitchen is the heart of your journey, allowing you to indulge in delicious meals and experiment with your culinary skills. A portable stove, such as the Coleman Classic Propane Stove, opens up a world of culinary possibilities. Complement it with durable cookware like the GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Camper Cookset, which includes pots, pans, and utensils designed for outdoor cooking. To keep your ingredients fresh and beverages chilled, invest in a reliable cooler or fridge like the Dometic CFX3 45.

4. Clean Water and Filtration System: Stay Hydrated, Stay Adventurous

Clean and safe drinking water is a fundamental need that should never be compromised. Whether you’re parked at a campsite or exploring remote areas, having a reliable water storage system is crucial. The Reliance Products Aqua-Tainer offers ample water storage capacity. Pair it with a water filtration solution like the LifeStraw Flex Water Filter System, which ensures you have access to drinkable water wherever your journey takes you. With these tools, you can quench your thirst and stay hydrated, regardless of your location.

5. Solar Power Setup: Powering Your Adventures Sustainably

In an age where sustainable practices are gaining importance, incorporating solar power into your camper van setup is a step in the right direction. Solar panels, such as the Renogy 100 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Panel, harness the power of the sun to charge your appliances and gadgets. By reducing your reliance on traditional power sources, you not only save money on energy costs but also contribute to a cleaner environment. This eco-friendly choice aligns perfectly with the spirit of adventure and exploration.

6. Comprehensive Tool Kit: Preparedness for the Unexpected

While camper van trips are often filled with joyous moments, unexpected challenges can arise. A comprehensive tool kit is your safety net, empowering you to tackle minor repairs and obstacles that might come your way. A well-equipped toolkit, such as the DEWALT Mechanics Tool Set, includes an array of tools like screwdrivers, wrenches, and pliers, allowing you to address common issues with ease. Additionally, a tire repair kit ensures that you’re ready to handle unexpected punctures and flat tires without derailing your adventure.

7. Campsite Comfort Furniture: Creating Your Outdoor Haven

The beauty of camper van travel is the ability to set up camp wherever your heart desires. Enhance your outdoor living space with comfortable and portable furniture that lets you relax and dine amidst nature’s splendor. Foldable chairs like the ALPS Mountaineering King Kong Chair offer sturdy support, while a portable table such as the Coleman Compact Folding Table serves as the perfect platform for meals and relaxation. With these essentials, you can bask in the tranquility of the outdoors without compromising on comfort.

8. First Aid Kit and Medications: Prioritizing Safety and Well-Being

Adventures bring excitement, but safety should always remain a priority. A well-stocked first aid kit is your safeguard against unexpected injuries or health concerns. From minor cuts to more serious incidents, a comprehensive first aid kit ensures you’re equipped to handle various situations. Brands like Adventure Medical Kits offer specialized kits designed for outdoor activities, providing you with the tools needed to address medical needs effectively. Don’t forget to pack any prescription medications you require, ensuring your health is never compromised during your journey.

9. Entertainment and Connectivity: Balancing Digital Detox and Fun

While camper van trips offer a chance to disconnect from the digital world, having a bit of entertainment can enrich your downtime. Whether it’s a rainy day or a quiet evening, pack entertainment options that resonate with your interests. Bring along your favorite books, a collection of board games, or even a portable projector for outdoor movie nights. Additionally, a portable Wi-Fi hotspot ensures you’re connected when necessary, allowing you to share your adventures with loved ones or access online resources on the go.

10. Proper Clothing and Footwear: Dressing for Every Adventure

Camper van journeys can take you through diverse landscapes and changing weather conditions. Packing suitable clothing and footwear ensures you’re prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way. Opt for versatile clothing items that can be layered, such as moisture-wicking base layers, insulated jackets, and waterproof outer shells. Sturdy hiking boots or comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring various terrains, enabling you to fully immerse yourself in both adventure and relaxation.

As you embark on your camper van adventure, remember that every road you take and every sunset you witness becomes a part of your unique story. By equipping yourself with these 10 essential items, you’re setting the stage for a journey filled with discovery, comfort, and memories that will last a lifetime. The open road beckons, and with the right tools at your side, you’re poised to create an adventure that’s as exhilarating as it is unforgettable .

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Camper Van Essentials: Complete Packing List

This post will find everything you need to take to travel in a camper van, RV, or motor home. Of course, it all depends on your van type and its space and organization.

• Read this post on beginner van travel tips.
• Campervan rental in Europe
• The Best Travel Fridges

What to Take For a Van Ride

The basic things you must take to travel by van or RV are as follows. In the comments, let me know your must-haves for van travel.

Food and Cooking on Your Camper Van Journey

Plastic containers for storing food.

Let’s start the list of things you must take to travel by van to keep your kitchen clean and tidy.

You will have the space reduced in the van, so it is best to carry everything tidy to take advantage of the space. Especially with food, it can attract bugs.

Check out these from Amazon

Other containers and boxes to keep everything tidy

To keep things in your van clean and tidy , keep them in boxes. Especially the small things, which can be easily lost.

12V Portable Refrigerator

There are several types of refrigerators for your camper van ; you have the 12V compressor, the 3-way (it works with propane, electricity, and 12 V), the 220V (or 110V) ones with an inverter, and the ones that are filled with ice.

Our recommendation is based on our previous experience of having had a 220V inverter and now a 3-way; the latter deserves the cash effort. It is more efficient and consumes fewer resources; the only thing is that when connected to the campervan battery, it does not cool much, but to propane or electricity, it is impressive.

Portable compressor fridges are awesome too. In this post, I will tell you about the different types of portable refrigerators for travel and the best options, depending on your type of trip and vehicle.

Cooking rags

Dishcloths, cloths, scouring pads. Take a look here .

Campingaz, cooking stove, dutch oven

You can cook in the RV, or you can cook outside if you are camping.

We have had the Campingaz flat that goes with cartridges, the stove connected to a cartridge that is like a small cylinder, and now, the kitchen stove installed in the van works with propane. Pretty cool improvement.

The flat one is more stable, but the stove with the big cylinder has more power . If the latter seems unstable, you can buy it a base (super cheap).

With these types of stoves, you have no trouble cooking almost anywhere.

Coffeemaker

If coffee cannot be missing in your life, don’t forget to bring a coffee maker to your van or motorhome . They come in all sizes and models and for different types of coffee.

You have portable pour-over coffee makers that only need hot water, Italian-type coffee makers , and 12V and 110V/220V coffee makers. Choose the one that best suits your type of trip.

Portable barbecue

A must-have on any camper van or camping trip is a portable barbecue. We started with coal but moved on to propane gas very little ago.

The reason for switching the barbecue from coal to gas is that coal barbecue is increasingly banned in more European places. There are even campsites that forbid it!

I have to say, the gas barbecue is much cleaner and needs less space in the van since you’re not going to carry coal or firewood. Also, the gas can work with cartridges or the propane of your van.

We have this fantastic Weber BBQ . We opt for this one because it weighs very little, has plenty of power, and allows us to work with cartridge and cylinder, while others do not.

In addition, it comes with two folding wings that help a lot, collected inside the lid, making them occupy very little space.

The grille is cast iron, so it’s a very durable and powerful investment; I must tell you that it’s going super well. For four people, it’s perfect.

If you are looking for a cheap, portable gas barbecue, take a look at this one .

Disinfectant/water treatment

If you drink water from your van, which is normal, you have to clean – disinfect the water tank. There are pills to put in the tank for this purpose, and that’s it. After that, you have fresh water to drink and cook.

You can buy them online , in camping shops, or specializing in camper vans and motorhome shops.

Trash Baskets and Bags

A folding trash can is ideal so that it doesn’t take up much space and doesn’t have a trash bag in between.

Please, we ask you to try to recycle.

Kitchen utensils for the van

Until we got into the camper world, I didn’t know there were so many things for vans, RVs, and motor homes. There are super cool glasses, crockery of all styles , glasses of wine or champagne that are not glass but look like it, and many more things.

Here’s a whole world for all budgets. But to begin with, take the utensils from home. However, if you can buy crockery and sturdy hard plastic cups, they are lighter and do not break.

Do not forget the utensils to cook: 1 pot , a frying pan and/or iron pan , drainer , cutting board , knives , etc.

In summary, the basics of a camper van or motorhome kitchen are:

• Crockery (plates, bowls, glasses)
• Kitchen cloths (towels and cloths)
• Reusable Washable Paper Towel (cero waste)
• Pots, pans, dutch oven
• Cutting board and knife (Take a look at the table on the link because it will surprise you. It is foldable and includes a drainer, grater, knife, etc.)
• Coffee maker and coffee
• Kettle for tea or coffee
• 12V portable or 3-way fridge
• Bottle opener, corkscrew
• Peel potatoes
• Dishwasher , sponge, scouring pads
• Organizers, reusable bags , containers
• Reusable water bottles
• Water purifier
• Mat for hot pots and pans
• Lighter , matches

Staple Foods

• To season: Spices, salt, pepper, oil, vinegar , etc.
• Sauces: mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard
• Bread, pasta
• Sugar or a sweetener that you like
• Cans of tuna and other preserves
• Water, beer, wine, juices, and soft drinks.

Hygiene, Bathroom, and Health

A potty + air freshener + blue liquid.

I prefer carrying a portable toilet in the camper van. When we had the Trafic, we had the potty in the middle, but now, in the Jumper, we have a closed bathroom, which gives you more privacy.

You must carry the blue liquid or these Dometic Powercare Tabs with the potty . The usually taken measures are 150 ml of blue liquid and a liter and a half of water.

You have to empty it every 2-3 days so it doesn’t smell and so it doesn’t weigh much. Potties have an indicator that alerts you if it’s full, but it’s best to empty them first.

Don’t forget to bring your favorite air freshener 😉

* If you want a portable toilet , this is the one we had. In addition, it is the best seller on Amazon and has excellent reviews.

First Aid Kit

Carrying a first aid kit is a must. You can buy them or prepare them yourself. You need Band-Aids, Gauze, Sells, Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen, scissors, etc.

Read these tips for traveling by van for the first time

Toilet paper

There is special toilet paper for chemical baths ; they ensure that it dissolves in blue liquid, although they are more expensive. I recommend you buy regular toilet paper and put it in the trash.

Small and large towel

The thing about the shower in the van is a world. You can have a portable shower to shower outside the van, or you can have a shower inside your van. In either case, you will need a big towel and a small towel.

The little one has it handy for washing your face and hands. And better if it is made of quick-drying microfiber .

• Towels , I recommend the quick-drying microfiber.
• Hygiene products (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, deodorant, shampoo, you know what you need)
• Portable Showe r (if you don’t have a fixed shower in your van)
• Regular toilet paper, a trash can, or special toilet paper for chemical toilets.
• Blue liquid or Dometic Tablets
• Toilet brush
• Moisturizing cream for face and body
• Brush, comb, hair ties, and clips

Small broom and dustpan

To keep the van clean, you need a small broom and a dustpan . Or you can buy a small portable vacuum cleaner. I recommend passing the broom after each meal so as not to tempt unwanted visitors.

Carpet for the entrance of your van

To clean your shoes, it is best to put a rug in the driveway of your van. You can put it in the van or outside if the weather’s nice.

I have also seen, especially those traveling in motorhomes, who carry a large carpet that they put in the place where the tables and chairs go.

Removes fats and disinfectant (for kitchen and bathroom)

If you cook inside your van or motor home, you will need products to clean. Carry a fat remover and a disinfectant in your van to clean the bath or potty.

• Multipurpose cleaner
• Disinfectant
• Sponges, scourers, cloths
• Garbage bags
• Broom and dustpan
• Portable vacuum cleaner

To sleep in the van

Sleeping bags or sheets and blankets.

Before we traveled by van, we did a lot of camping, so we had sleeping bags and a tent.

When we were traveling in the Traffic, we wore sleeping bags and a duvet in winter.

And in the Jumper, which has a fixed bed, we carry sheets and a duvet . It is much more comfortable not to have to set up and remove the bed every day.

A good mattress is essential

Being able to rest well is essential in your van journey. It does not matter if you travel in a small or large van; i nvest in a good folding or fixed mattress , but a comfortable one according to your weight.

We have bought a viscoelastic topper that is put on top of the mattress that we already have in the van. It is a whim, but it is ideal for long trips. We bought it on Amazon, and it is a very comfortable one.

Don’t forget the pillows and a thin blanket.

Tools and others

Basic toolbox.

Another thing you have to take to travel by van is a toolbox . A small kit with the basics: a star and another plane screwdriver, hammer, nails, wrench, cutter, pliers, and Allen keys.

*Note: in the big camper vans and RVs, it is mandatory (at least in France) to carry a small fire extinguisher. I recommend having it in any Camper Van, RV, or Motorhome; it does not take up space and can save you from a bad unforeseen.

Cable to connect your van

You can connect to the mains when you go to a campsite or a special area for vans or motorhomes.

This way, you won’t use your van’s secondary battery, and you can have 110 or 220 V electricity to charge mobiles, laptops, batteries, etc. Try to make the cable length and have the necessary adapters.

If you forget, at the campsites they usually sell them, but not at the best prices. Better take a look at this one from Amazon to be prepared.

You have to carry at least one flashlight , better two, and batteries in your van, or it should be rechargeable.

In addition, to the obvious things, the flashlight is handy to go to the bathroom at night if you don’t have it in your van, also for when you hear a noise at night or to scare off little animals.

Hose and different adapters for charging water

To load the water from the van, you’re going to need a hose. Some are long, but that takes up little space; those are the ones I recommend you buy.

And don’t forget to bring different adapters for the faucets. You’re going to be surprised how many different outputs they have. At minimum you have to buy an adapter for quick male-male connection and a 3/4-male thread tap adapter .

You can buy them online or in any gardening and DIY store.

Rope and tweezers for clothing

If you’re going on a long trip, you’re going to have to do your laundry. Many service stations have washers and dryers or campsites. Don’t forget to bring rope and tweezers to hang your clothes, so they dry well.

You’ll also need to bring soap and a softener to wash your clothes.

RV Level Blocks

If you can’t find a flat-level place to sleep, you need to level your van with blocks . They are essential to have a good rest.

Make sure they come with covers or have a large bag ready to store them. Why? Because if you park on the ground, they will bury themselves, and if you are going to be in the same place for several days, it is most likely that they have a few bugs. So you have to clean them and store them in a suitable place.

Bicycle holder

For us, it is a must; in the Trafic traveling in Europe with my sister, we put the bikes inside the van, but when we bought the Jumper, we put the bike rack , and it is much more comfortable!!!

Taking your bike on your camper van trip is very convenient for both visiting cities and sightseeing. Keep in mind that vans often have to park away, and the bike is very comfortable to arrive or go to make the purchase, etc.

• Fire extinguisher
• Jumper Cables for your camper van (just in case)
• Portable Power Station
• Cable to connect to 110/220V
• Tire pressure gauge
• Level Blocks (buy with a case for storage)
• Small Tool Kit
• Additional engine oil and transmission fluid
• Puncture kit
• Drinking water hose
• Window covers , if you don’t have them installed
• First-aid Kit
• Auxiliary battery
• Scotch tape
• Fixed or portable solar panel

For Camping

Camping table and folding chairs.

You can’t miss the table and chairs. They are ideal for eating out, for a beer, or working with the computer.

We have started to travel with awning with our second van, and the truth is that has become a must.

If you don’t have an awning, you can bring an umbrella or a camping pergola to protect yourself from the sun, wind, or rain.

• Picnic rug or blanket
• Citronella candles or mosquito repellent
• Led USB lantern
• Games (cards, frisbee, balls, puzzles, guitar, etc.)

In your van, you have to carry a 12V mobile charger to charge with the van lighter so you can use the GPS and not run out of battery.

Carry chargers for mobile, tablet, laptop, Kindle, and camera.

We also carry a portable charger each. Don’t forget the camera and the memory cards.

If you take many photos, my recommendation is that you carry a portable hard drive to download them.

• WIFI signal amplifier
• Your favorite electronic devices (laptop, Kindle , Tablet, phone, etc.)
• The chargers of the devices you carry.
• Portable Charger

Clothing and footwear

What clothes to wear on a camper van trip? Pack comfortable clothes to travel in and then wear clothes for the activities you’re going to do.

If you go to the mountain do not forget the trekking boots, if you go to the beach do not forget the swimsuit and flip-flops, if you are going to walk a lot wear appropriate footwear.

If you are looking for an off-road shoe, I recommend that you look at the Tropicfeel shoes , we have a pair each, and we love them; they are comfortable, and amphibious, and you can get them wet, and they dry quickly.

Before you travel, look at the weather forecast to see if you’re going to need a coat, raincoat, umbrella, etc.

• An all-in-one backpack for your travels and adventures .
• Hiking boots
• All-terrain walking shoes
• Flip flops, crocs, sandals
• Slippers to be in the van, or warm thick socks.
• Socks, underwear
• Comfortable pants to be in the van.
• Hiking pants
• Long-sleeved and short-sleeved t-shirts
• Sweatshirt and pullover
• Coat jacket
• Laundry bag

Basic tips to get started

• Keep it simple with solid colors or simple patterns that can match all your clothes.
• Pack only clothing that is wrinkle-free and machine-washable
• If you have a piece that you like a lot, bring two or an extra of another color. It will make dressing up a breeze.
• If you don’t use it often at home, leave it at home.
• White clothes are not your friend on a camper trip.
• Choose pieces that are not too bulky to avoid wasting space
• Pay attention to the materials. Quick-drying sportswear will last longer between washes than cotton.
• It’s okay to use the same things multiple times
• Make sure to plan for the change of seasons.

Check before traveling by van

If you haven’t moved your van in a long time, check it: wheels, water, oil, battery, air conditioning, extinguisher, etc.

On the back: check that everything works, that you have gas in the cylinder, and that it is clean to start the journey.

Check that you have all the van papers up to date : green letter, insurance, technical inspection of vehicles (if they exist in your country)…

From the van we pass to you, bring your ID or passport, your health care, travel insurance , cash, debit, and credit cards.

Don’t forget to:

• Reservations (camping or RV areas, activities, restaurants, etc.)
• APP to find places to sleep like Park4night
• Cash, coins, and debit and credit cards

A notebook and pen

A notebook and pens you have to carry in your van. I like to take notes about the places we are visiting, a kind of logbook , but that also serves to write down things that we need, things that have been forgotten or that have been finished to us.

• Inflatable kayak (super fun and cheaper than you think)
• Bicycle carrier
• Urinary emergency device for women
• Travel Insurance
• Backpack , the one from Tropicfeel , is great, but Salomon is excellent if you are looking for a cheaper one.

What you don’t need in a Camper Van

• Expensive things like jewelry or electronics (unless you go to work during the trip)
• Fire-making equipment, except that you go to campsites where it is allowed. If you want to have barbecues, take a gas one that you can use anywhere.
• Formal clothes, if you want, take a change of clothes for a special occasion that you want to celebrate on your trip. But the best thing is to be comfortable.
• Uncomfortable shoes, nothing worse than sore feet. Bring comfortable and appropriate footwear for the activities you are going to do
• Many books on paper, it is best to travel light. If you are an inveterate reader, take a Kindle , it will be much more comfortable and less heavy.

Are you packing anything else? Tell us in the comments.

Plan Your Trip in Camper Van

• Tips for traveling by van for beginners
• What to eat when camping (super simple)
• Everything you need to know about Travel Insurance + DISCOUNT
• The best refrigerators for traveling
• Best Portable Toilet
• Best Portable Shower
• Portable or Fixed Solar Panels?

Last Updated on 5 October, 2023 by Veronica

Disclosure: Some of the links on this post are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Author: Veronica

Vero, a seasoned traveler, has explored 25 countries and lived in five, gaining a rich perspective and fostering an infectious passion for travel. With a heart full of wanderlust, Vero uncovers the world’s hidden gems and shares insights, tips, and planning advice to inspire and assist fellow adventurers. Join Vero and let the shared passion for travel create unforgettable memories.

Soy Verónica, una apasionada de los viajes, me gusta compartir mis experiencias viajeras en mi blog. He estudiado Empresas y actividades turísticas y ando metida en el mundo del Marketing Digital. Me gusta aprender algo nuevo cada día, conocer nuevos lugares y culturas diferentes.

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Camper Essentials: Important Items to Pack Before Travelling

• January 1, 2023

There is one moment that every traveller can relate to. That moment when you walk out of your door, wondering if you have forgotten to pack something for your trip. And the majority of the time, you have! Fortunately, most of the commonly forgotten things can easily be bought along the way, but what a hassle it is when you come to needing that item and realize that you don’t have it on board.

Which Items Do You Need for Travelling in a Campervan?

Here, we’ve made a foolproof packing guide of the camper essentials to take while travelling so that you will never need to experience this again.

The next time you are about to walk through the door, pull up this guide to make sure that you can leave with confidence!

Download our FREE Camper Travel Essential Checklist !

Some things in this packing list may be irrelevant to you, though don’t be too quick to skip them. If you are travelling with a family or friend then you may be able to save them from the same situation at the door. Consider each option thoroughly before moving on to the next so that you can be prepared for every situation along the road.

This one is definitely at the top of the list. Your documents are one thing that generally can not be bought along the way. It is super important that you carry these with you on your adventure.

If you are hiring a camper to travel in, there are some things that you’ll need to ask for. Check with this list before driving away in case they have forgotten some essentials.

• Driving licence
• Vehicle insurance
• Health insurance
• Travel insurance
• Camper documents
• Registration certificates

Now your documents are always important, especially if you are crossing international borders. Some countries don’t require travel and health insurance though we would always recommend taking a policy. Of course, we hope that you never need to use it. Most of the time this doesn’t cost much at all and could save you hundreds and ensure you receive the treatment needed if you did find yourself in the hospital.

Important Contacts

It is also important to have a list of emergency contacts with you at all times. If you do find yourself in need, you want to be able to contact these people immediately.

• Insurance support
• Camper rental if applicable
• Roadside assistance
• Personal emergency contacts

Of course, most of these can be found online but what if you are without phone reception or in a situation where the time spent searching could keep you in danger?

It is a big reality that nothing comes for free, of course travelling on a budget is possible though you will inevitably need to pay for things along the way. Nowadays, you can manage with just a bank card, or even your phone, for most expenses, though we recommend having some secondary options and planning some of your costs.

• Credit card
• Toll badges ( Europe )

Depending on where you go, it can be very handy to have a bit of cash close. Some regions or smaller shops may not have other payment options or may add an extra fee if you decide not to pay with cash.

Often you can find yourself saving a lot on your trip if you book campsites in advance. You may be able to score a few promotional discounts through Agoda or avoid last-minute fees when you book in advance with booking.com which often provides free cancellation.

Toll badges will often save you time, and possibly money. Toll badges are another good option to look into before your travel as it may be necessary to use toll roads while crossing some countries. Instead of waiting in line to pay for the toll, especially in high season, you can continue through the electronic scanner and be billed off a pre-paid account.

Be sure to check the conditions before subscribing for a toll badge. If time is not of the essence, then you may be fine without it. Some toll badges do provide discounts while others have added or ongoing fees, depending on how long you intend to use it.

Camper Essentials

Some things are required to have onboard while travelling. If you are renting a camper most will be provided, otherwise, you need to be sure that you are sufficiently packed. Be sure to check the requirements of your destination as it can vary a lot between countries.

Not everything on this list is required, some just make sense to have packed on an in-case basis.

• First aid kit
• Warning triangle
• Visibility vest
• Fire extinguisher
• Vehicle spare light bulbs set
• Parking disc
• Vignette stickers
• Motor oil and coolant
• Levelling ramps
• Toilet chemicals
• Disposable gloves
• General tools

If you do find yourself in a first-response situation, some of these items could even be lifesaving. We tend to store our safety items in the front of the camper where they can be easily accessed if the time came. The rest get stored continently in a toolbox in the rear so that we never get caught out while travelling on the road.

Campsite Essentials

Being prepared when you arrive at a campsite is crucial to enjoying your trip. Whether you will be staying at one campsite for a longer period, or driving from one to another every other day, campsites will act as your temporary home base on your travels.

Some campsites provided all the necessary facilities while others have limited services. In any case, some of these things will make your daily chores quicker and easier leaving you with more time to enjoy your free time.

• Water filling connections
• Electricity charging adaptors
• Camp chairs and table
• Pocket knife
• Dustpan and brush or hoover/vacuum
• Pillows and cushions
• Bed sheets and blankets
• Laundry basket
• Clothesline or this handy clothes hanger
• Outdoor cushions and blanket

Travelling isn’t only relaxing and having fun, inevitably you will need to do some chores along the way. Some of these items are necessary and others are optional extras. You want to leave yourself as much time as possible to explore the areas or meet other travellers while enjoying the outdoors. That is why we include some of these comfort features in our packing list for a perfect trip.

A lot of gadgets have become a necessity in our lives, and sometimes a trip away can be a reprieve from our screens. Though some of these gadgets have improved our travelling experiences so much that they have earned a place on our packing guide.

Not all electronics are a necessity, many can help to create and save our memories along the way. Others have made our travels feel seamless or even saved us from getting caught out along the way.

• Mobile phone
• Camera or drone
• International power adapter
• Charging cables
• Extension cords

Our mobile phones are so important these days. They allow us to keep in touch, navigate, and keep up to date with a quick google search. That’s not all though, they are also a great safety feature for us. To have instant contact in emergencies and keep track of our belongings with Bluetooth.

A camera or drone can be an excellent tool to keep track of all of the memories we make. And of course, the earphones to have some alone time, especially if you travel with others. Remember, you don’t have your room to retreat. All of these devices are great, and can quickly become useless if they run out of power so don’t forget your charging cables and a good power bank so you never run out!

Personal Care

Travelling in a camper does not mean you must lack hygiene. You are on holiday! Make sure that you can stay clean and feel good about yourself while you are away. Everyone has forgotten something on this list at least once. Of course, they can be bought along the way, though this list is to help avoid the hassle.

Don’t forget to pack your toiletries bag with a toothbrush, toothpaste and deodorant while you check through the list.

• Shampoo/conditioner
• Suncream (and afterburn)
• Paracetamol
• Nail clippers/ scissors
• Razor or beard trimmer
• Glasses or contact lenses
• Toilet paper

Most of these items are small enough to fit in a spare toiletries bag for convenience, though be sure to put them back so that you don’t lose them along the way.

Hygiene is one thing that will not be limited when you make sure to check your packing list.

This one will depend a little on your plans if you intend to indulge at restaurants or make use of campsite facilities, then you may not need much here.

If you prefer to be a little more self-sufficient then some kitchen supplies will be needed. Some campers, like ours, have kitchen facilities built in, while others may not meaning some more packing is required.

• Portable gas cooker
• Collapsible pots and pans
• Plates and bowls
• Cups and mugs
• Cooking utensils
• Cutting board
• Herbs, salt and pepper (in some handy herb jars )
• Sandwich bags or containers
• Rubbish bin and bags
• Lighter or matches
• Dish soap and sponge
• Coffee machine / coffee and tea

It is a good idea to pack a little extra when it comes to kitchen wear, if your space allows, to invite some new travel friends over for a meal.

Packing your clothing can be a little tricky, space is often limited in a camper so you’ll need to pack smart. The clothes that you will take will be heavily dependent on the climate you are going towards so we will split them into two categories, warm and cold climates.

Warm Climates

If you are travelling to warmer climates then you can generally pack more. Warm-weather clothing is often shorter and thinner, taking up less space and giving your more freedom of options. Warmer climates provide more appealing activities, such as hiking, rafter, surfing or swimming so you’ll need more variety of clothing.

• Thin T-shirts or singlets
• Short pants

Although you are going towards warmer climates, you still need to prepare for colder evenings or bad weather. Check the cold climates list before you move on.

Cold Climates

Travelling to colder climates can be tricky as warmer clothing generally takes up more space. We recommend working with layers so that you can mix and match depending on how extreme the weather gets.

Winter sports are big and there are still lots of activities to do in colder climates so don’t forget to pack accordingly.

• Thermal underwear
• T-shirts or singlets
• Waterproof/insulating jacket
• Thick socks
• Winter sports gear
• Winter boots

Of course, some of these items overlap with warmer climate gear, we try to add layers to combat the colder weather. This reduces the amount of thick clothing needed and takes up less space.

Prepare for the Weather

No matter the climate you travel to, you need to be prepared for the weather. We recommend doing some research to see the weather productions of the areas that you will travel to. Don’t forget to pack a wind and rainproof jacket so that you don’t get caught out, as well as some weatherproof shoes to keep you dry.

Consider taking some clothing for both climates in case the weather changes, or your plans. Zip-off pants can be a good idea in case the weather fluctuates throughout the day. An awning or gazebo can be a good investment, to provide shelter from the heat or rain. Lastly, make sure to include a heater or ventilator to keep you comfortable inside the camper.

Entertainment

Now that you are packed for every scenario, it is important to include some fun!

We recommend looking for mini versions of your favourite games and multiple-use card games. Books can also be good entertainment, whether you’re into reading, puzzles or drawing/colouring.

• Mini board games
• Game console
• Books or E-books
• Sport accessories
• Drawing or colouring book

You may also want to include bigger entertainment. For example, a bike , volleyball net , or portable projector can be lovely for outdoor entertainment if your space allows it.

Now we know that this is an extensive packing list and not everything will apply to you. You now have an overview of all of the possibilities and are welcome to pick and choose what you wish.

Some, like us, prefer to take their travel as it comes through planning some details and ensuring a good packing list is necessary to avoid some disappointment. Consider your destination and which activities you intend to partake in so that you can pack accordingly.

Free Download: Camper Essentials Checklist

To ensure that you pack the essentials with you while travelling we made an easy checklist that you can download for free:  Camper Travel Essential Checklist. No printing is needed, the checklist is digital so you can check your essentials on the way. Good luck!

If you enjoyed reading this post, then you may be interested in checking our blog pages. We have covered a range of topics about Van Life , Van Build , Van Travel , and our Van Buddies , where we share our experiences from living in a campervan for the past two years. You can follow us on Instagram or Facebook to stay up to date with our latest posts and to take a closer look into our daily lives.

We are Bai (Aussie) and Den (Dutch), living in a van for over two years.

 Together we have lived in two self-built campervans over the past two years. Through this experience, we have gained many  stories ,  tips  and  tricks .

We have kept track along the way to share everything Van Life with you.

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10 Essential Accessories For Your Camper Van

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A camper van is a great way to experience outdoor living without giving up too many home comforts. It provides the freedom to go off-grid for a while, enjoy remote areas, and visit alluring destinations on a budget. Traveling in a camper van is also an effective way to make use of the limited time available to travel, as you can visit several locations and resettle elsewhere whenever you feel like it.

One significant benefit to traveling in an RV is it enables you to take many useful items along for the trip. These can include practical devices to help you stay connected and improve the standard of living while you're away from home, as well as lifestyle solutions to make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable. 

Some items are essential on an extended camper van trip if you wish to make the most of your vacation time. Whether you are a digital nomad, a fair-weather camper, or a die-hard outdoor enthusiast, here are ten indispensable accessories that will help improve life in your recreational vehicle.

Read more: Major Car Wheel Brands Ranked Worst To Best

Outdoor Camping Mat

Camping is one of the best ways to get closer to nature. However, there's such a thing as being too close, especially when it comes to rough, soggy, uneven, or insect-ridden ground on your doorstep. You may also simply wish to wander around with no shoes or avoid tracking dirt into your living space. The simplest solution to these issues is to buy an outdoor camping mat.

An outdoor mat is inexpensive and can transform an outdoor space into a clean, communal area to kick back and relax outside your camper van. They are usually woven with plastic fibers to provide a waterproof, easy-to-clean solution that is comfortable underfoot and an insulated layer on which to rest and unwind. A camping mat is also an environmentally responsible means of protecting sensitive habitats around campsites from human interference, and it helps to define your living space and prevent encroachment from other campers and their vehicles.

Many rugs are available in different designs and dimensions to suit your ideal outdoor living space. For instance, mats from Balajees USA come in several sizes, from as small as 3x6 feet to as large as 9x18 feet, and cost between $29.99 and $89.49 on Amazon . They are made from recycled materials, are UV-treated to prevent fading, and pack up small for transit.

Camper Awning

You can never predict the weather conditions on longer trips and should be ready to enjoy the outdoor life come rain or shine. A camper awning provides a large shady area that also protects against rain showers. This is all the more helpful if you have outdoor devices, furniture, and an outdoor mat that you want to keep dry or away from direct sunlight.

A camper awning helps expand your living space to the outdoors and works well with an outdoor mat. Many types of awnings are available, including standalone options and those that partially attach to your vehicle. More recently, inflatable awnings have provided a lightweight and practical solution, although these are often designed to suit specific vehicles. There is an awning to suit every requirement, shape, and size imaginable, as well as every budget.

If you are a camper van user looking for a well-designed midrange awning, you could consider this model by MoonShade for $395 on Amazon . It attaches to your vehicle for added strength at the rear side and is supported by two upright poles with guyropes. Its familiar tent peg and flexible pole design are quick and easy to assemble, and it uses a waterproof polyester canvas with UV-blocking properties to reflect the sun's rays, keeping you cooler in hot climates.

Portable Shower And Water Heater

Staying fresh and clean while living outdoors can present a challenge, especially if you are camping off-grid and far from the utilities of public campsites. Hygiene is all the more critical while away from home to maintain good health, prevent infectious illnesses, and simply maintain a feeling of comfort and well-being as you travel.

A camping shower allows you to keep good personal hygiene in remote camping areas and provides hot water for washing dishes and other purposes. They are available in electric, solar, or propane-powered options, and when used with a folding shower tent, they make an indispensable addition to your remote campsite.

There is a portable shower to suit all requirements and budgets, but those looking for an off-grid might consider this propane gas-powered model from Hike Crew at $269.99 on Amazon . This mobile standalone hot water unit can easily be carried between the shower area and kitchen and also includes an accurate thermostat with a digital temperature reading, a safety cutoff feature, and a shower head hose attachment. In addition, the Hike Crew portable water heater comes with a faucet attachment for cleaning dishes and handwashing.

Foldable Electric Bike

Foldable bikes are a useful addition to any camper van's inventory, as they provide quick, convenient transport without you having to pack up your van and leave the campsite. They are a leisurely means for exploring the immediate area and pack away easily for transport and storage. Upgrade these to an electric bike, and the benefits are even more significant, as you can travel further afield without expending as much energy, which can be spent on other pursuits.

Even the best electric bikes are sometimes seen as an extravagance by those who haven't tried them. Once you start pedaling and feel the assisted electric motor kick in, all doubts will begin to fade as you experience all the advantages of cycling but with a fraction of the effort. Many electric bikes come with valuable features such as disc brakes, LED illumination, and LCDs for essential rider information and are built to a high specification with premium parts.

While there are plenty of great electric bikes available, one to consider is the Jasion EB3, currently listed for $279.99 on Amazon . This electric bike is well-built, eminently portable, affordable, and packed with features, making it a fun and useful accessory for any RV trip. Standout benefits include its front and rear lamps, dual disc brakes, rear suspension, and a large 36-volt battery. A bold LCD presents speed, battery level, and trip information while the bike carries you at speeds of up to 19 miles per hour.

Portable Solar Power Generator

Many campsites provide electrical outlets to enable camper van adventurers to cook, illuminate their vehicles, and recharge devices. However, this isn't always the case, and many of us will find ourselves disconnected from the grid for extended periods when traveling in our camper vans. When this occurs, it is essential to have a backup power source on hand, especially if you rely on an internet connection and a laptop for remote work.

Modern technology offers us a few solutions when power is unavailable, including generators , heavy-duty power banks , and solar panels . Some of the best examples combine several power-generating technologies, so you not only have a large power reserve to last you, but you can continue to top them up and increase your power reserves while they're not in use.

While there are plenty of solutions out there, they vary wildly in price and function. If you have the cash to spend, you might consider a multipurpose generator by Jackery . While the Jackery 2000 Plus costs a hefty $3,299 on Amazon  in the dual solar panel configuration, it has ample storage while fully charged and provides 3,000 watts of energy to power appliances that use a heavy load both inside and outside your camper van.

The Jackery Solar Generator has a shock-resistant and fire-retardant design, is quiet when in use, and charges fully in around two hours using a wall outlet. It includes four universal outlets, one heavy-duty outlet, two USB-C ports, and two USB-A connections for smaller devices. However,  perhaps most noteworthy are the two large solar panels included with the package for trickle charging its reserves while disconnected from a power source.

Portable Bluetooth Speaker

It feels great to escape the rat race and head for the horizon in an RV, but that's not to say that you should also leave all your everyday luxuries behind. It's essential to be able to listen to your favorite e-books, podcasts, and, of course, music while you're away from home, and a portable Bluetooth speaker is the ultimate solution.

Whether you need something that's ultra-compact, waterproof, powerful, affordable, or a combination of these, there is a portable Bluetooth speaker to suit every requirement. The Bose Soundlink Revolve+ is $329 on Amazon and ticks most boxes as an eminently portable, long-lasting, water-resistant solution that produces impressive 360-degree sound.

A chief consideration when buying a portable speaker is its longevity, and the Revolve+ will play for up to 17 hours on a single charge. It has voice command functionality, and with its lantern-shaped design, it is easily placed on a flat surface or hung from its flexible handle. Functions can be accessed using the Bose companion app, and multiple speakers can be linked to create an immersive sound around your campsite.

Bose is known for creating big, detailed sounds from compact devices, so it's worth checking out the range to find the perfect portable Bluetooth speaker to suit your individual requirements. However, seeing as factors like portability, weight, and size aren't such an issue when traveling by camper van, the Bose Soundlink Revolve+ is a good fit for most purposes.

Mobile Wi-Fi Modem

Staying connected with high-speed internet is, for many, an essential component of modern travel, especially if you are able to work while on the move. To this end, there are many solutions available to help you stay online while away from home, not least the ubiquitous Wi-Fi hotspot function on our smartphones. With that said, when traveling in a camper van, the convenience of having always-on wireless connectivity from which you can connect multiple devices, stream television, and make calls is yet another benefit to camping on four wheels.

You can stay connected while on the move with a 5G mobile hotspot modem such as the Netgear Nighthawk M6 , which is priced at $699.99 on Amazon . This handy unit provides Wi-Fi speeds of up to 3.6 GBPS and 5G speeds of up to 2.5 GBPS, making even demanding tasks like gaming, working, and streaming possible simultaneously. Add to this connectivity for up to 32 devices, a 1 Gigabit Ethernet port for direct connection, as well as a USB-C port for fast transfer of data, and its features should be surplus to most day-to-day requirements.

Essentially, for a mobile unit, the Nighthawk M6 features ultra-secure Wi-Fi when using a public connection, so your data is protected at campsites and other communal areas. Wi-Fi settings are easily accessed via its large touchscreen display, but bear in mind that you will need a compatible SIM card and data plan should you choose to purchase a 5G modem.

Rechargeable Lantern

As far as essential camping items are concerned, a good portable lantern should be on everyone's list. Proper illumination is useful when sitting outside after sundown, when walking to bathrooms, and in the event of power failures or generator issues. Modern lanterns can be extremely powerful, waterproof, powered by different sources, and rechargeable, so you can always keep them topped up for emergency use.

Stay illuminated outdoors and indoors with this rechargeable hurricane lantern by AYL for $32.95 on Amazon . It projects 1,800 lumens of brightness and charges via USB. It comprises 46 LEDs, which are more power-efficient, long-lasting, and brighter than their halogen counterpart. Its 4,400mAh battery doubles as a power bank for charging devices in an emergency, making the lantern extra useful in the event of a power outage.

Importantly for any outdoor lantern, this model is water-resistant, and it has three brightness modes and a flashing option, which can help draw attention to you in an emergency or when performing roadside maintenance on your camper van. Another notable feature is its dimming function, whereby you hold down the power button until you reach the ideal brightness, meaning you don't have to have it at its maximum power at all times.

Insulating Blinds 

Depending on how your camper van is configured, you may need to block visibility through the windshield when you're not in transit. This is a good idea, not just from a privacy perspective but also to deter thieves, who may seize the opportunity to survey your vehicle when it's parked.

An insulated blind such as this one for $26.99 on Amazon  is a useful deterrent from prying eyes but also works to reflect heat from your cab in hot weather and, conversely, to keep the cab warm when your heater is running. As anyone who has come back from a day at the beach to find the steering wheel too hot to touch will know, this is a simple and essential accessory to keep you comfortable on the road.

This blind has the capacity to protect side windows as well as the windshield and is attached with a simple velcro strip, making installation quick and easy. It is made from UV-absorbent, reflective polyester, making it sturdy and able to withstand repeated uses. While it may sound obvious, don't forget to measure your windshield before purchasing an insulating blind, as a good fit helps ensure it is at its most effective.

Digital Safe

When you are enjoying a camping trip, you can expect to be away from your campsite and vehicle for long periods. Even in a well-populated area, your camper van is at risk from thieves, as people often travel with expensive gear, making them an easy target to opportunists. A digital safe is a simple and practical solution that can be hidden away in a cupboard and bolted through to offer an extra line of security in keeping your valuables safe.

While a compact safe is inconspicuous and keeps money, passports, jewelry, and other small valuables secure, a larger safe like the Honeywell 6110 -- which costs $69.99 on Amazon  -- can hold a laptop and other devices. This means you can leave your camper van for longer with confidence that your data and expensive items are likely to be there upon your return.

This particular safe is double steel-lined and has a fire-resistant construction, a tamperproof concealed hinge, and a digital combination lock. It comes with a steel tethering cable as an extra deterrent, should you choose not to bolt it down, and a carry handle for portability. With the added peace of mind that a safe affords you, you can go about enjoying your vacation without the daunting threat of theft. This, combined with the convenience of a digital locking system, gives you the reassurance that you can retrieve your items without the need for an additional key.

Read the original article on SlashGear .

The most developed industries are machine-building and metal-working. The leading enterprises are: "Ulyanovsk automobile plant", "Volzhskie motory", "Avtodetal-service", "Aviastar", "Kontaktor", mechanical and machine-building plants, plant of heavy and unique machines.

The main architectural points of interests are: Assembly of noble family (1838-47), Yazykov's House (the beginning of the 19 th century), military gymnasia (1877), Public Assembly (1910), Peasant land bank (1911), and others.

In 1960-70-s the central part of Ulyanovsk was reconstructed and was created the Lenin memorial zone, which included elements of old Simbirsk (houses, concerning life of Ulyanovs family in the city) and ensemble of Lenin Memorial Center.

The Ulyanovsk region holds the 37 th place in Russia and the 6 th place among the Volga regions. By density of population (36,2 men/sq. km) - the 29 th place in Russia and the 3rd among the Volga regions, yielding only to the Samara region and the Tatarstan Republic. Specific weight of city population (urbanization level) - is 72.8%.

The Volga River divides the territory of the region into high right-bank and low left-bank (Zavolzhie).

On the right part is situated Privolzhskaya Hill (up to 363 m height) with going to Volga Undorovskie, Kremenskie and Sengileevskie Hills. Surface of the right part is flat plain.

The main river is the Volga and its confluents: the Sura, the Sviyaga, the Bolshoy Cheremshan and others.

Climate of the region is temperate-continental. An average temperature in January is -13 °C, in July +19 °C.

The Ulyanovsk region is situated in the areas of forest-steppe and deciduous forests. Soils are mainly black earth.

Forests occupy ¼ of the territory. In the north-west - are large woodlands of oak forests with linden and maple, in Zavolzhie - are meadow steppes, separate coniferous forests. In these forests one can find elk, marten, squirrel, lepus and other. There are numerous water birds and waders. In the Kuibyshevskoe water reservoir live bream, zander, sazan and others.

In the 8 th -9 th centuries the Ulyanovsk Volga region became a part of early the Volga Bulgar State as a union of nomad Turkic and settled Ugro-Finnic tribes.

At the end of the 14 th - the beginning of the 15 th century, after devastating raid of Tamerlan, the ruler of the Central Asia, began desolation of the territory of the Ulyanovsk Volga region. Since the end of the 30-s of the 15 th century the region became a part of the Kazan Khanate.

After 22 years of Simbirsk foundation he had to endure a strong fight for the state protection, but not against external enemies, but against brigand's Cossack volnitsa (group of serf peasants, which escaped from their masters), directed by ataman Stepan Rasin.

In the 18 th century as a result of enlargement of the territory of the Russian State, especially in south direction, people began intensively develop and settle south areas of the present territory of the Ulyanovsk region, and Simbirsk itself began gradually lose its war-strategic meaning.

Soviet power in Simbirsk province was established a month later after the October revolution - on the 10 th of December 1917. In 1918 the region found itself in the epicenter of the Civil War. After liberation of Simbirsk from White Guards in September 1918, the city became an important rear base of the Soviet power. For some time here was situated a headquarters and the Revolutionary War Council of the eastern front. Simbirsk cartridge plant was playing an important role in provision Red Army with ammunition.

In 1924 Simbirsk was renamed to Ulyanovsk.

From the beginning of the Great Patriotic war Ulyanovsk became a place where had been evacuated different enterprises, organizations and institutions from the western areas of the country, Moscow and Leningrad.

In the 50-s - 60-s in the region were opened new industrial enterprises (the plant of heavy and unique machines, the mechanical plant, Dimitrovgrad scientific research institute of nuclear reactors and others), automobile bridge across the Volga river and the airport in Ulyanovsk.

Ul'yanovsk hotels & places to stay

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Fast facts about Ul'yanovsk, Russia

Frequently asked questions.

What are the most suitable hotels around Ul'yanovsk intended for solo vacationers?

A resort in Ul'yanovsk which is exceptionally rated by single visitors is Sanatoriy Lenina.

What are the preferred places to stay in Ul'yanovsk for business travelers?

A property around Ul'yanovsk that is highly rated by business travelers is Sanatoriy Lenina.

What are the prime properties found in Ul'yanovsk that have restaurants?

Properties with restaurants found in Ul'yanovsk which are very highly rated include Sanatoriy Lenina and Sanatoriy Lenina.

Where can I find rooms in Ul'yanovsk that has free cancellation policy?

Yes, you’ll find most hotel rooms provide free cancellation rates, in which you will receive a full refund if you cancel prior to the deadline. Filter your search by free cancellation to find flexible hotel deals in Ul'yanovsk.

What are some forthcoming holidays in Ul'yanovsk?

Holidays that are coming up in city_name include Public Holiday on 4/28/2024, Public Holiday on 4/29/2024, and Public Holiday on 4/30/2024.

Is quarantine expected for fully vaccinated travelers to enter Ul'yanovsk?

Quarantine may be required for fully vaccinated vacationers to enter Ul'yanovsk from outside the country. For updated and detailed information on travel restrictons, please have a look at the official websites of the travel authority or government of the country you wish to visit, or go to here .

Is quarantine mandatory for unvaccinated tourists to enter Ul'yanovsk?

Quarantine may be required for unvaccinated visitors to enter Ul'yanovsk from outside the country. For up-to-date and in depth information on travel restrictons, please head over to the official websites of the travel authority or government of the country you wish to visit, or go to here .

Is pre-departure covid test required for fully vaccinated visitors to enter Ul'yanovsk?

Proof of negative pre-departure COVID-19 test may be required to enter Ul'yanovsk. For updated and in depth information on travel restrictons, please take a look at the official websites of the travel authority or government of the country you wish to visit, or go to here .

Is pre-departure covid test needed for unvaccinated visitors to enter Ul'yanovsk?

Proof of negative pre-departure COVID-19 test may be required to enter Ul'yanovsk. For up-to-date and in depth information on travel restrictons, please be sure to take a look at the official websites of the travel authority or government of the country you wish to visit, or go to here .

Is covid test upon arrival mandatory for unvaccinated foreigners to enter Ul'yanovsk?

COVID-19 test may be required on arrival when entering Ul'yanovsk from outside the country. For up-to-date and in depth information on travel restrictons, remember to have a look at the official websites of the travel authority or government of the country you hope to visit, or go to here .

Is covid test upon arrival expected for fully vaccinated travelers to enter Ul'yanovsk?

COVID-19 test may be required on arrival when entering Ul'yanovsk from outside the country. For up-to-date and in depth information on travel restrictons, remember to check out the official websites of the travel authority or government of the country you want to visit, or go to here .

What vaccines are recognized in Ul'yanovsk?

Moderna, Pfizer/BioNTech, Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) are currently acknowledged and accepted by the national health authority of the country that includes Ul'yanovsk.

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More about ul'yanovsk, discovering ul'yanovsk: fun facts and reasons to visit, getting to ul'yanovsk: transportation tips and tricks, top things to do in ul'yanovsk: exploring the city's hidden gems, why book with agoda.com: the best hotels in ul'yanovsk, the best time to visit ul'yanovsk: seasonal travel guide, traveler's guide to ul'yanovsk: tips and recommendations, where to stay in ul'yanovsk: accommodation options for every budget, foodie's guide to ul'yanovsk: must-try local dishes, getting around ul'yanovsk: transportation options and tips.

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Tuesday, april 30, 2024.

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