You've got the van, you've got the time, hell, you've even found the perfect destination, but what vital items do you need for a successful trip on the open road? We take a look at the best products guaranteed to make your trip an awesome one! So, without further ado.... lets get into it!
1. A lightweight firepit 🔥
Picture this.... You're at your favourite secret spot near the sea, on the beach or perhaps tucked away in a secluded spot in the woods. As sunset draws near you get the firepit out and cosy up under the stars to the open flame. Marshmallows are melted, s'mores are being had, life is just.... well... great. 🙂
If you are looking for an easy solutions, that folds up nicely and leaves no mess, we recommend this firepit from Amazon. Great price point for hours of firepit fun! 🔥
2. Kettle ☕️
Having a kettle is absolutely fundamental to any camping trip! If you're like most people that morning cup of tea or coffee is a must, and it's even better when you open the van doors and wake up to beautiful views with the comfort of a nice cuppa.
Here I've got two recommendations depending on your needs - one is space saving and one just has some awesome colours 🙂
- Collapsible Kettle - This collapsible kettle from Amazon is perfect for making those all important cups of tea, and still packs down to store away neatly, saving you space for that all important biscuit tin! 😉
- 'Rad coloured' kettle - This kettle is a classic, be prepared for it to take a bit more space than the collapsible but if you are anything like me and drink buckets of tea a day, this kettle just gives you more per boil and also has some wicked colours to choose from to match your interior. Get me a 'rad coloured' kettle now!
3. Toilet 🚽
OK, so lets talk toilets! Most campsites in protected areas ensure that your van is 'self-contained', meaning that you have the facilities to 'leave no trace' in order to preserve beauty spots. This includes toilet waste. If you have a day van, it's likely you don't have the space for a separate bathroom in your van so buying a portable toilet is definitely the way forward. It may seem a bit strange at first to consider doing 'ones private business' in this way, but I can assure you, it's quite liberating when you realise you can pretty much go to the toilet anytime, anywhere! No queuing for stinky portaloo facilities or holding it in preying for the next services to come soon!
The Thetford Porta Potti 335 is the one we use and is the perfect portable toilet for life on the road. Keeping everything contained and with flush functionality, this toilet can even be disguised a seat or a footstool when it's not being used for it's primary purpose!
Still worried about space? This basic folding portable toilet really is a minimalists dream.
4. Shower 💦
If you are taking a trip into the wild, away from nice camp site shower blocks and are wondering how the hell to stay clean, this portable shower is a real game changer! Pair it up with a decent shower tent and you have all the luxuries of home whilst on the open road. This battery powered portable shower is really adaptable, great for washing pets down too before they get in the van. With battery life lasting up to 45 minutes, you just need a decent bucket or water source to accompany it.
5. Toilet/Shower Tent 🎪
Setting up camp and want to provide a more comfortable, private space for the toilet/shower - this Wolfwise pop up tent is perfect for those moments of privacy and packs down flat for easy storage and transportation.
6. Camping Chair 🪑
Imagine this - You've hiked all day, been out in the surf, basically had an awesome day of mega adventures and you are done! Coming back to the van you just need to rest your feet with a nice cup of tea (or beer!), whilst enjoying some fresh air and awesome views. This portable camping chair provides the comfort and practicality required after a long day of living the dream! And when your done? Simply fold it up and pack it away. Job done!
7. Beanie hat 🪖
A camping trip, isn't a camping trip without a faithful beanie hat to keep you cosy, hide that bed hair or warm you up after jumping in the sea. Although I have acquired a wide range of beanies which have been tried and tested over the years, my favourite at the moment is from Passenger - They just fit well, are made of quality material and have a range of beautiful designs to choose from. If you are looking for a quality product for those cooler camping evenings then the Passenger range of beanie hats is worth a try.
8. Decent hoody ✌🏻
Just like a decent beanie hat is crucial to your camping success, so is a decent hoody for those colder days, or even to warm up after a chilly surf. Over the years I've struggled to find one that had a good fit, and kept me toasty, no matter the weather. This year I discovered bro! hoodies - wow! What a game changer🔥 ....With a built in neck warmer, lots of zips, thumb loops and a chunky oversized fit, this is by far the comfiest hoody I have ever owned!
9. Now we're cookin' on Gas! 🥓
Nothing like al fresco style dining in a beautiful location or enjoying your morning tea with a view. But whats the easiest way to get started I hear you ask?! A portable gas cooker is the way forward my friend! Get those sausages in the pan for brekkie or cook up a feast for dinner - the skies the limit with a portable gas stove. This is the one we use, easy to store, good price point and never disappoints!
But wait... What pans will you use to cook it all in? I'll sneak this one in for you - The Ridgemonkey pan is THE ultimate pan for making toasties, it also comes apart to provide two separate pans, with foldable magnetic handles and included accessories. I just couldn't go without mentioning this one.. You can thank me later for that additional nugget! 😉
10. Blanket ✨
Last, but definitely not least - a decent blanket is mandatory! Do not leave home with out one!! Cosy up in the chair with a hot choc by your firepit with a comforting blanket looking up at the night sky, what a way to feel alive. Now, choosing the best blanket is a tough one, so I've given you some options here -
- Teddy blanket by Dunelm - The softest of all blankets, this really is like being snugged up in a cloud! Recommended for softness.
- Gandys Artisan blanket - If you are looking for something a bit more durable and unique, these beautifully designed blankets are the one! Recommended for quality.
- Sea Gypsy Eco - These handmade blankets are versatile, eco-friendly and give off real beachy vibes. Recommended for eco-friendly versatility.
So there we have it. Our top 10 campervan products for 2023! We hope this has been useful and we always welcome feedback.
Looking for further inspiration? Why not check out our tips for travelling with your dog, or a more detailed look at cooking on the road.
Happy Camping! 💜
Kay x