Your complete camper packing and travel checklist

A great road trip starts long before you collect your camper. Booking early gives you the best choice of vehicles and often the best prices, especially if you're travelling during the school holidays or peak season.

It's also worth thinking about the type of trip you'd like to take. Are you planning a weekend away as a couple or a longer family holiday? Choosing the right camper from the start will make your journey much more comfortable.

Before confirming your booking, make sure you:

• Choose the right camper for your travel group and destination.

• Compare what's included, such as insurance, mileage and equipment.

• Book popular campsites early, especially during peak season.

• Read the rental conditions before completing your booking.

The final days before your trip can feel busy, but a little preparation now will make your holiday much more relaxing. Take some time to organise your documents, confirm your booking details and download any apps you'll need on the road.

If you're flying to your destination, it's often worth arriving the day before you collect your camper. This gives you time to recover from your journey and start your road trip feeling refreshed. In some countries, such as the USA and Canada, collecting your camper on the day you arrive may not be possible or recommended.

Before you leave, check that you've packed:

• Passport and driving licence

• Travel insurance documents

• Booking confirmations for your camper and campsites

• Emergency contact details

• Offline maps and useful camping apps

• Printed and digital copies of important documents

Collecting your camper is one of the most exciting moments of your trip. Before you set off, take your time during the handover. The rental team will explain how the vehicle works, but don't be afraid to ask questions if anything isn't clear.

Before signing the rental agreement, check that you understand the fuel policy, insurance, deposit and any mileage conditions. Having everything clear from the start helps you avoid surprises later on.

Before driving away, take a few minutes to inspect the vehicle:

• Check for existing damage and make sure it's recorded.

• Take photos of the exterior and interior.

• Test the lights, water taps and heating.

• Check the control panel and ask how it works.

• Connect to mains electricity if possible to see that everything is working correctly.

• Ask questions before leaving if you're unsure about any of the vehicle's features.

A thorough handover only takes a few extra minutes and gives you confidence before starting your journey. 

Most rental companies already provide the larger essentials, such as beds, cooking facilities and seating. What you'll need to bring yourself depends on your destination, travel style and what's included with your booking.

To make packing easier, we've grouped the essentials into a simple checklist.

Travel documents

• Passport

• Driving licence

• Travel insurance

• Booking confirmations

• Payment card (typically credit card)

• Printed and digital copies of important documents

Electronics and navigation

• Phone charger

• Power bank

• Travel adapter

• Offline maps

• Navigation and camping apps

Health and safety

• First-aid kit

• Personal medication

• Hand sanitiser

• Insect repellent

• Torch

Everyday essentials

• Reusable water bottle

• Comfortable clothing

• Waterproof jacket

• Walking shoes

• Sunglasses

• Sun cream

Travelling with children

If you're travelling as a family, a few extra items can make the journey much easier.

• Games and books

• Colouring supplies

• Favourite snacks

• Comfort toy or blanket

As your road trip comes to an end, it's worth allowing plenty of time before returning your camper. If you're travelling straight to the airport or train station afterwards, leave enough time in case of traffic or delays during the return process.

Before handing back the keys, make sure you've completed the basic return requirements. While these can vary between rental companies, you'll usually be expected to:

• Refuel the vehicle, if required by your rental agreement.

• Empty the waste water and toilet cassette, if applicable.

• Remove all personal belongings.

• Dispose of any rubbish.

• Leave the camper clean and tidy.

During the handover, ask the rental company to confirm the vehicle's condition before you leave. This helps avoid misunderstandings later on.

Even experienced travellers make mistakes from time to time. Fortunately, most of them are easy to avoid with a little preparation. 

Try to avoid these common pitfalls:

• Packing too much. Storage space is limited, so only bring what you'll actually use.

• Driving too far each day. One of the biggest advantages of travelling by camper is having the freedom to slow down and enjoy the journey.

• Booking too late. The most popular campers are often reserved months in advance, especially during peak season.

• Not checking what's included. Equipment, insurance and mileage can vary between rental companies, so always compare what's included before booking.

Ready for your camper adventure?

With the right preparation, travelling by camper is easier than many first-time travellers expect. A simple checklist helps you stay organised, avoid last-minute stress and enjoy every stage of your journey.

At CamperDays, you can compare campers from trusted rental companies, see exactly what's included and find the right vehicle for your next adventure. Once you've booked, all that's left to do is pack your bags and enjoy the road ahead.