Tips for newbie campervan owners
Getting behind the wheel of your first campervan is genuinely exciting. The open road, flexible itineraries, and the freedom to wake up wherever you please are appealing lifestyles that more and more people are embracing. With motorhome registrations in the UK rising by over 20% in 2024, it’s clear that van life is firmly in the mainstream. That said, making the most of campervan ownership takes a little preparation. Here’s what every new owner should know before setting off.
Planning is key
Good trips begin long before you leave the driveway. Research your destinations carefully, considering campsite facilities, road access, and any weight or height restrictions along your planned route. Tools like Pitchup make it straightforward to search and compare thousands of UK campsites by location and facilities. During peak seasons in particular, popular sites fill up fast, so booking pitches and attractions well in advance will save a great deal of stress. Before you go, also make sure your kit is complete with levelling blocks, wheel chocks, a fresh water hose, and an electrical hookup cable.
Practice makes perfect
Before committing to an ambitious first trip, take the van out on a few short runs close to home. Even a weekend away nearby will reveal a great deal, and you’ll quickly learn how your water system behaves, which storage areas are easiest to reach, and whether anything is missing from your kit. Driving a campervan also takes some adjustment. The vehicle is longer and heavier, and handles quite differently from a car. Practise manoeuvring in quiet car parks and get comfortable with wide turns, reversing, and relying on wing mirrors instead of a rear-view mirror.
Mastering the systems
Understanding how your van works will make life considerably easier on the road. Familiarise yourself with filling and draining your fresh water tank, and get into the habit of conserving water where possible. Learn the basics of your electrical setup, including how to manage battery levels and connect to shore power at campsites. Knowing how to use and empty your toilet cassette, and where to legally dispose of grey water, is just as important, and most sites have dedicated facilities for this.
Safety first
Before every trip, run through a quick safety check. Verify tyre pressures, fluid levels, and that all doors and storage hatches are properly secured. Inside the van, make sure you have a working smoke alarm, carbon monoxide detector, fire extinguisher, and a well-stocked first aid kit. These are non-negotiables, not optional extras. Sorting the right campervan insurance before you travel is just as essential, making sure that you’re covered for everything from accidental damage to breakdown recovery.
Taking a little time to prepare properly before your first adventure makes the whole experience far more enjoyable. Once you’re confident with the practicalities, you can focus on what matters most, which is the journey itself.
