Who doesn’t love going on a campervan adventure with their kids? There is no better way for a family to bond – fact! But sometimes planning and packing for a family holiday is hard, especially when you’re in a campervan or camping and need to have the right items for all activities.
Being well organised and prepared in advance is the key to making sure your family campervan trip goes smoothly. We’ve created a detailed packing list, designed especially for families, so you don’t forget any of those essential items when you’re off the grid!
When it comes to packing clothing, it helps to try and pack light. However, don’t go too minimalistic. As you know, kids get dirty quickly and you don’t want to be doing laundry daily. Opt for quick drying and sweat-wicking fabrics designed for travelling.
If there’s one thing you can guarantee about New Zealand, it’s the unpredictable weather! In fact sometimes we’re known to have “four seasons in one day” so it’s best to be prepared, even if you’re travelling in summer. Layers will soon become your best friend in New Zealand! Of course, this won’t stop your three-year-old from insisting on wearing nothing but a bathing costume and tutu with wellies, but you should at least have some layers ready for a more sensible clothing option!
You need to be comfy while sleeping in your campervan so don’t hold back on packing all of your favourite pillows along with your sleeping bags. If you and the kids are well rested, it means everyone will be happier and a lot less stress for you. Travellers Autobarn can provide you with extra sleeping bags as well, so even if you forget them we’ll have the backup. We also provide free heaters and water bottles in the winter, as well as a number of other optional campervan equipment.
For less stress and more relaxation, remember to pack the following for your next campervan adventure:
When you’re travelling with kids it’s always important to bring lots of snacks, as those dips in blood sugar can lead to crankiness and frayed tempers. Not what you want when on a long journey. Dried and tinned food in particular for when you can’t buy fresh or don’t want to go out to eat – dried noodles and pasta, rice, tinned vegetables, beans, and soup, jams, honey & peanut butter, dried fruit snacks, cereal bars, spices, long life milk, and oil. Don’t forget the marshmallows for toasting on the open fire!
Other kitchen items you shouldn’t forget:
For kitchen equipment we do have you covered though, as we offer pots, pans, plates, cutlery – the whole lot.
Have you got your first aid kit to fulfil your role as super-mum/dad? Hopefully, the answer is yes! Whatever you do, make sure your kit is packed for all disasters – kids can have the strangest incidents, making you either laugh or cry!
For smaller children, it helps to be creative when it comes to treating the inevitable cuts and scrapes. Wrapping your kids up in cotton wool isn’t something you want to do when you’re exploring the wilderness but some toddlers can become hysterical at even the tiniest spot of blood. In these cases, your box of tricks (first aid kit) becomes your best friend with its “magic” antiseptic cream, cartoon-adorned Band-Aids, and, of course, a lolly or two won’t hurt either!
Some campervan sites have pretty luxurious shower facilities, while at others you’ll be lucky if you get a cold tap and a bar of soap. Even in the most remote surroundings, having a selection of your own toiletries and wash products can bring a little taste of your home comforts. Fill up small bottles and give each member of the family their own wash bag so there’s no need to take it in turns to have showers.
There will be plenty to see and do while you’re on your trip but sometimes kids just need a bit of downtime at camp or something to keep them occupied while you’re driving to your next destination.
You’ll be spending the majority of your time outdoors, which is both a blessing and a curse. Kids need less entertainment and are better at keeping themselves occupied in the great outdoors but they also seem to be a magnet for insects, dog poo, toddler-sized holes, and pretty much any other mischief they can find themselves in. It’s best to be prepared but go with the flow and remember you can always hose your kids down at the end of the day!
And last but by no means least – all those random bits and pieces that are so important but you’re so likely to forget! There’s a whole host of travel gadgets available. Honestly, it can be tempting to get carried away when you’re shopping in your local store, but stick to the essentials and opt for multi-use items where possible.
That’s it – you’re now packed and ready to hit the open road in your campervan!
If you’re looking to go on an adventure with your family and think that hiring a campervan would be a great option, come and chat with our friendly staff today. We are experts in family travel and know all the tips and tricks you need to make sure your camping trip is great fun and stress-free.
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