10 things to know before traveling in a camper van, according to someone who lives in one

Zoë HannahJul 8, 2020, 21:42 IST

There are a few important things you may want to know before heading out in a camper van.Trent Burns for Insider

- As someone who lives in a camper van, I've learned a lot of great tips and advice about traveling in one.
- Some of my best decisions were investing in easy-to-clean clothing, paper maps, and titanium utensils.
- I've found it's helpful to dump and fill our camper van's water tanks every chance we get.
- Having power banks and a high-quality, large backpack has also made my travels easier.

Living in a camper van feels sort of like camping all of the time — I cook my meals on a small gas stove, spend a lot of time outside, and don't have a lot of creature comforts.

As someone who loves camping, this is a great way to live, but there was a big learning curve when I started traveling in a camper van. But after a few months, I learned tricks to making van life work.

Here are some of the most important things to know if you plan on hitting the road in a camper van, according to someone who lives in one.

Investing in high-quality clothing can make travel easier.

It was important for me to think about purchasing materials that can be worn several times before washing, as well as materials that have dual benefits. Zoe Hannah for Insider

Buying extra storage is great for long-term trips.

I bought extra storage since I'll be on the road for a while. Zoe Hannah for Insider

I suggest buying backpack that distributes weight and holds a lot of things.

My backpack comes with me almost everywhere. Zoe Hannah for Insider

Easy-to-wash, multi-use utensils and dishes can save you a lot of time.

Titanium sporks are durable and multipurpose. Zoe Hannah for Insider

When cooking, try to keep the dishes you'll be using to a minimum.

Washing dishes in the river isn't an option if you're aiming to leave no trace. Trent Burns for Insider

Always be prepared for cold and rain, even during summer months.

In New Zealand, it can go from warm sun to cold rain in a few moments. Shutterstock

Having a few different types of lights is important.

String lights can add a cozy ambience, but sometimes can attract bugs. Cavan Images/Royalty-Free/Getty Images

Dumping and filling the water tanks in a van is crucial, and my partner and I do it every chance we get.

This is the most important lesson I've learned about how to maintain homeostasis in the van. Zoe Hannah for Insider

Electricity isn't always easy to come by, so power banks come in handy.

My van has a few wall outlets, but they aren't always the best option. Zoe Hannah for Insider

We always download offline maps and carry a paper map just in case

Digital maps are great, but paper maps are quite reliable. Zoe Hannah for Insider

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