Driving and Skiving

Campervan packing list

We can’t count how many times we’ve set off on a campervan trip and quickly realised we’re missing some vital kit. So over the years we’ve compiled a list of campervan essentials that we and our friends have routinely forgotten.

Here it is – our essential campervan packing list, split out into handy sections so you can learn from our mistakes.

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Campervan cleaning essentials

  • Washing up liquid
  • Washing up bowl
  • Sponges and cloths
  • Tea towel
  • All-purpose surface cleaner
  • Kitchen roll
  • Dustpan and brush
  • Bin bags
  • An old towel or rag (to dry your floor)
  • A laundry bag

Campervan cooking essentials

  • Fuel for cooking (whatever you use)
  • Lighter / matches
  • Cooking oil
  • Bottle opener / corkscrew
  • Sharp knife
  • Bread knife
  • Chopping board
  • Colander
  • Frying pan
  • Saucepan
  • Kettle
  • Salt and pepper
  • Cutlery
  • Bowls and plates
  • Mugs
  • Tea / coffee
  • Coffee press
  • Utensils:
    • Spatula
    • Serving spoon
    • Ladle
    • BBQ tongs
    • Tin opener
  • Peeler
  • Portable BBQ (+ coals and firelighters)

Campervan bathroom essentials

  • Toilet paper
  • Hand sanitiser
  • Insect repellent
  • Painkillers
  • Antihistamines or other medication
  • Toothpaste
  • Toothbrush
  • Bath towel
  • Soap
  • Shampoo
  • Razor (if that’s your thing)
  • Hairbrush (if you need one)
  • Sanitary products (for the ladies)

Campervan essentials for setting up camp

  • Camping chairs
  • Windscreen covers
  • Chocks
  • A gazebo or awning (especially if it’s going to be wet or you’re in a group)
  • Windbreak (if that’s your thing)
  • Camping table
  • Lantern or outside lighting
  • Portable speaker

Other campervan essentials

  • Earplugs
  • A rucksack
  • Some flip-flops or crocs (for walking about on the campsite)
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Waterproof coat
  • Woolly hat
  • Warm layers
  • Charging cables
  • Deck of cards, or other games
  • Wellies or boots

Campervan maintenance essentials

  • Spare engine oil
  • Windscreen washer fluid
  • Adjustable spanner
  • Screwdriver
  • Electrical tape
  • Gaffa tape
  • Jump leads
  • Tow rope
  • Warning triangle
  • Jack kit
  • Functioning spare wheel

Campervan essentials for dogs

  • Lead
  • Something to secure them while travelling (harness / secure crate)
  • Poo bags
  • Dog towels (at least 2!)
  • Dog food
  • Their own water bottle and bowl for days out
  • Dog bowls for the van
  • Ground spike (to attach a lead to)
  • Cooling get mat

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