Vanners: what you need to know before hitting the road

Bringing your home on wheels is one of the most convenient ways to travel. More and more people are buying camper vansfor unforgettable road trips. If you are one of those who have decided to buy one, you should definitely follow the basic tips described below. However, if you have any doubts about whether or not to buy a van, just listen to all the advantages a van has to offer and all your doubts will quickly disappear.

Advantages of travelling by van

Carrying the house on one's back can offer great advantages:

• Sleeping in unique placesThe easy parking of the vans makes it possible to spend the night in unique places, for example, in beautiful mountain valleys. You can enjoy wonderful sunrises and sunsets from inside your van. You can enjoy views that five-star hotels do not offer.

• Freedom to plan routes: if you are on a long journey, you can stop anywhere to rest. The camper vans can be parked in normal-sized car parks, so you're sure to go unnoticed.

• Economic savings: It is true that the purchase of a camper van requires a fairly high financial investment. However, in the long run you will come out ahead. You will save a lot of money on accommodation and meals. You will be able to sleep, cook and eat in the van.

• Comfort: sleeping in a van is undoubtedly much more comfortable than sleeping on the ground. You can enjoy the same sensations of camping, but in a luxury hotel. Also, in case you go to the bush, it is a unique feeling to come home directly without having to take the car to get to the campsite, hotel or hostel.

6 tips you need to know

Although the advantages are great, many people who travel by van make mistakes that can make your trip less enjoyable. Before setting off on a van trip it is advisable to follow the following basic tips:

Make smart travel planning

It is very common for people who have recently bought a van to want to see as much as possible in as little time as possible. The fundamental recommendation is to take it easy. Just because you have a van to move around in doesn't mean that you can't spend several days in the same place. Although it may not seem like it, the hours of driving are tiring and make you not enjoy your holidays as much. Peace and quiet is essential. In addition to spending several days in the same place, it is also highly recommended to park the van before nightfall. Many people think that the night should be used for travelling, but isn't it better to rest at night? If you park your van in daylight, you can have a quiet dinner, chat, read, etc. Tourism is not just about seeing things and getting enough sleep. Often the best moments of a trip are when you are in a quiet environment, surrounded by people close to you. You may find it useful to read this article on "Practical tips for touring the Pyrenees in a motorhome".

Make a list of what you need

A van is big and roomy, but just like a suitcase, it fills up, so always remember that you have to sleep in it. Always remember that you have to sleep in it, so all the luggage you carry should not cause problems when setting up the beds, and carrying just the right amount of materials will make the journey more comfortable. In case you need a lot of space, it is advisable to buy a box that you can carry on the roof of the van. However, take the essentials with you. If you are travelling with two people, do not bring items for others. For example, two plates, two glasses, two knives, and two forks will be enough for eating. For cooking, a spoon, a frying pan, a saucepan, and a spatula will also suffice. With a table and two chairs, you will be able to prepare your meals with ease. As for food to take with you, remember that you will not be far from civilisation. Stock up your wardrobe when you can. And lastly, take the necessary clothes. Nowadays, there are many laundrettes where you can wash your clothes.

Locate gyms, swimming pools, etc.

If there is one disadvantage of a van compared to a motorhome, it is that it does not have a toilet and shower. Before leaving on your trip, find gyms, swimming pools, etc., close to where you are going to be. This way you can take a shower and maintain basic hygienic conditions.

Stock food cupboards when you can.

Canned foods often have the advantage that they remain edible for a long time. However, it is advisable to keep them in the cupboard just in case, and to eat fresh food. If you are in a town, or close to one, it is highly recommended to go to the market to buy vegetables to eat the same day. This way you can maintain a healthy and balanced diet without having to spend a lot of money.

Plan where to fill up

The weight of the van itself added to the weight of the luggage increases fuel consumption slightly. If you want to save a bit of money, remember that petrol and diesel prices vary according to the country you are in. When you are close to crossing a border, consider whether or not it is worth refuelling. For example, the price of a litre of petrol in Spain is 20 cents cheaper than in France. Filling up in Spain will therefore save you a few euros. If, on the other hand, you are coming from France to Spain, you may want to go a little further to fill up at a Spanish petrol station.

Establish the sleeping spots before starting the journey.

If you are planning your day-to-day travel, it is advisable to look at some places to sleep. First, establish the locations or points where you will spend the night. Once you know that, it is highly recommended that you use the Google Maps to find convenient places to park your car. Thanks to these maps, you will be able to find discreet and slightly out of the way places to help you sleep. This way, you won't waste any time.