Common Campervan Mistakes First Time Renters Should Avoid
Before you drive away
You've clicked 'book now' on that campervan, haven't you? And now, amidst the excitement, there's probably a tiny little voice in the back of your mind asking "What have I forgotten?, What don't I know?"
Let me quiet that voice for you. You’re probably buzzing with excitement for your trip. And hey, maybe feeling a little nervous, too? That’s totally normal. The truth is, every epic campervan journey has its potential speed bumps. But the good news? You can totally avoid most of them.
So, from one travel lover to another, here’s the real deal on what to watch for. Let’s make sure your adventure is all about those incredible views and the late-night laughs. Not the easily avoidable “oops” moments.
Mistake #1: Thinking bigger is always better
You see that massive six berth behemoth and think, "Yeah, more space, more comfort!" But here’s the thing. A bigger van doesn’t just mean more room to stretch out. It also means a vehicle that’s potentially harder to drive and trickier to park. And more stressful to navigate down those narrow coastal roads you’re probably dreaming of.
You’ve had a long day. You’re tired, and you finally find that perfect secluded spot. Only to realise there’s no way you’re manoeuvring this vehicle into it. Suddenly, all that extra space feels a bit unnecessary compared to the peace of mind a smaller vehicle could have provided.
My advice? Be realistic about your needs. If it’s just you and your partner, a sleek 2-berth is perfect. It’s cosy. It’s easy to handle. And you’ll be able to get into spots the big guys can only dream of. Trust me, agility is your best friend on the road. Especially on those narrow lanes you find around Dublin or Melbourne.
Mistake #2: Forgetting the "Hidden" costs & your safety net
When you see that daily rental rate, it’s easy to think, "Sweet, that's the budget sorted.". But the rental fee isn’t your only consideration.
The true cost of a campervan trip can have a few sneaky extras. There's fuel, of course, which adds up quickly. Then there’s campsite fees for powered sites. Do not forget LPG for your fridge and cooker if required. Then there is food, activities, and that inevitable morning coffee you will crave.
But what happens if something goes wrong? A blown tyre. A cracked windscreen. A locked-in key. These are the times where you’ll be thankful for having sufficient vehicle protection coverage, which is another thing to consider for your budget.
My advice? Do your maths before you go. Tally up the real full costs: the rental, insurance, fuel, campsites, food, and a buffer for fun. Then, and this is non-negotiable, add a separate emergency fund. Aim for a few hundred dollars that you do not touch unless it’s a genuine "oh-no" situation. It means if you get a puncture, you can just get it fixed without the panic. Believe me, your safety net lets you actually relax and enjoy the trip.
Mistake #3: The spontaneous itinerary
Spontaneity makes a road trip great, right? Well, yes and no. You should leave room for unexpected detours. Those surprise discoveries are the best part. But heading out with a total "zero plan"? That is a recipe for exhaustion.
If it’s getting dark, and you have no idea where you’re going to sleep near Sydney or Vancouver, you will end up frantically searching for any available spot. But then every campsite is full. That is not freedom. That’s stress.
My advice? Have a loose plan. Book your first night or two, especially if you’re arriving late. Know your must see spots and look how long it takes to drive between them. Google Maps estimates are often optimistic. Add at least 20% more time for a campervan. You’re on holiday, not in a rally car.
And research your overnight parking. Are you staying in a proper holiday park with power and facilities, or are you trying freedom camping? If it’s the latter, you need to know the local rules. Nothing ruins the vibe faster than a hefty fine slapped on your windscreen at 7 am.
“ Pack light and pack smart. Stick to quick dry clothing. Roll your clothes, and you’d be amazed at the space you save. ”
Mistake #4: Overpacking like you're moving country
We’ve all been guilty of this. You want to be prepared for every possible scenario, from the cool evenings in Christchurch to the beach weather in Cairns. But campervans don’t always have great storage. Every pair of jeans you cram in is a pair you’ll have to live with in a potentially small space.
My advice? Pack light and pack smart. Stick to quick dry clothing. Roll your clothes, and you’d be amazed at the space you save. And remember, you can almost always find a laundromat. A good rule of thumb? Lay out everything you think you need, then put half of it back. You won’t miss it.
Mistake #5: Not doing a proper vehicle handover
The handover process at the rental depot can feel rushed. They’re busy, you’re excited, and you just want to drive. But this is your one chance to get to know your new temporary home.
Don’t just nod and smile. Be present. Ask for a proper walkthrough.
My advice? Create a checklist on your phone. Make sure you understand:
- The electrical system: Understand the power. How to hook up. And how long the battery lasts.
- The water system: How to fill the tank. How to drain the sink water. And how to empty the toilet. Wear gloves for that.
- The gas: How to turn it on and off for the cooker and fridge.
- The physical vehicle: Do a thorough inspection. Film a video on your phone of every single scratch, dent, and mark you can find, both inside and out. This will protect you from being charged for damage you didn’t cause. It might feel awkward. But it is essential.
Mistake #6: Underestimating the driving itself
Driving a campervan is not like driving your car. It’s taller, wider, heavier, and slower. You need to be mindful of height restrictions for bridges and car parks. This is a real concern on some older roads in the UK. So, you need to account for a longer stopping distance. And the wind? A strong gust on an open highway can give you a real jolt.
My advice? Take it slow. Plan your routes and avoid low bridges and narrow city centres. Always do a "walk around" check before you leave. Secure everything. Lock the awning. Close the cupboards. And your future self will thank you.
Mistake #7: Forgetting it's a vehicle, not a hotel
A campervan gives you an incredible amount of flexibility. But it still has limits. You can’t just park up anywhere and expect to have a perfect, silent, comfortable night. Sometimes it’ll be windy. Sometimes it’ll rain. Sometimes the people in the van next to you will decide 11 pm is the perfect time for a sing along.
And the facilities are basic. You have a finite amount of water and power. Long, hot showers are a luxury of holiday parks, not something you do in your van.
My advice? Adjust your expectations. Embrace the simplicity. Some of the best memories are of playing cards by battery-powered fairy lights while the rain tapped on the roof. It’s about the experience, not the five star service. Be prepared to be a little uncomfortable sometimes. It is all part of the story.
Ready for the road
So, there you have it. The big ones to watch out for. But honestly? Don't let this list scare you. Making a mistake or two is also part of the journey. It’s what gives you those stories to tell later. The goal here is just to help you avoid the big, trip ruining ones.
Do your homework. This includes choosing a rental company you can trust. Doing your research on platforms like Motorhome Republic, which compares heaps of options in one place, can save you a lot of headaches and help you find a vehicle that’s perfect for your adventure.
Pack your sense of adventure, and you’re in for one of the most incredible experiences of your life. Happy travels!
