The freedom of the open road — stretching out, full of opportunity, on the horizon. It’s beautiful, isn’t it? Yet, as romanticised as this lifestyle is, every seasoned campervanner knows the gnawing feeling of burnout. You’re surrounded by clutter, haven’t slept properly in days, and your child is wailing for a toy (perhaps you’ll have to admit it got left behind).
As Passenger sings, “You only hate the road when you’re missing home.” Luckily, you can eliminate that craving for creature comforts by creating a home on wheels. Here’s what every campervan owner should know.
Prioritise Comfort and Sleep
They say that a good night’s sleep cures everything. And guess what? That’s often right; sleep boosts mood and reduces anxiety. Maintaining that bounce-back mentality when battling conditions on the road is important, so invest in comfortable sleeping arrangements.
High-quality bedding and supportive mattresses are non-negotiable. The rest is more subjective. If you prefer total darkness, consider blackout curtains or window covers. If you’re travelling with kids, consider portable sleep solutions. Make evenings work for you.
Create Zones for Living and Storage
A tidy space creates a clear mind. An important step when transforming your campervan into a “home on wheels” is establishing storage solutions.
There’s no getting around it: most campervanners will be downsizing from a house. That means adjusting to a smaller space, and organisation is key. It’s like the psychology of making your bed; creating clear zones for tidy-looking storage will send positive ripples throughout your day.
Invest in hanging organisers, wire baskets, and develop a passion for over-door and cabinet-style storage. Ideally, create “zones” throughout the van, too. For instance, a kitchen corner, bedroom, and living room. Transitioning between different spaces feels more homely than constantly juggling different functionalities in one area.
Add Personal Touches
A cosy campervan doesn’t just hinge on functionality, though. Personal touches matter. Think about what makes your actual home feel homely. Is it aesthetic lighting? Framed photos? Or even potted plants? Bring a little personality with you on the road.
Whether adding fairy lights, bringing a movie projector and blankets, or deliciously scented candles, you’ll soon have it feeling like home. Just don’t forget to cover your space with the right campervan insurance, especially if you’ve kitted it out with personal items. Nobody wants to foot the expense of a missing family heirloom, and things get broken easily during transit.
With the proper steps, your campervan will soon achieve home status. It’s all about setting yourself — and your vehicle — up for success.