If you're ditching airlines and hotels, there's no need to lament over it as modern-day caravans let you soak in the rustic beauty of the countryside and enjoy unconventional trips that prioritize your safety. There's also no need to worry about the directions as GPS databases are pretty accurate. It's high time you holiday in caravans now!
Wondering how to plan and execute a trip or getaway in a modern-day Campervan? We've put up a comprehensive guide to help you venture out with complete planning and preparation in these motorhomes.
Amenities Available in a Campervan
A Campervan in literal terms is a vehicle that allows transport as well as sleeping accommodation. Here's what a caravan usually consists of-
- A caravan can usually accommodate 5-7 people depending on the sq ft.
- It has seats which double up as beds.
- A kitchen area with basic essentials
- A lavatory
- Electronics including television sets, speakers, CCTV, and more.
Step 1: Deciding on the Destination and Itinerary
- Decide on the budget and destinations you want to hit-up. You may want to opt for destinations in proximity to your hometown if it's a weekend getaway. Longer trips may allow you to explore a couple of destinations.
- Have a definite destination list. Last-minute changes may invite trouble.
- Chalk out the itinerary which includes the number of days you want to spend in a particular spot/ destination; the activities you wish to indulge in (could be camping, trekking, canoeing, etc) and the spots you want to make a halt en route.
Tip: Have a blueprint of your plan while traveling. Keep extra copies of it and stick to your itinerary as much as you can.
Campervan destination suggestions:
Kullu (Camp Exotica)
Spiti
Coorg (Coorg Planters)
Munnar
Shillong-Cherrapunjee
Pushkar (Desert camping)
Kabini
Step 2: Rent The Right Caravan For Your Trip
- You can outsource a caravan which simply means renting one from an established caravan conglomerate that can assist you with your campervan, routes and also offer a guide along with the driver. You can customize your trips, pay the package price, and be rest assured.
- Conduct thorough research about the types of caravans available in the market, link up to camping expos, ask your acquaintances, get onto online caravan forums, and visit some caravan dealerships.
- You should be choosing an all-in-one caravan which has all the facilities, most importantly an in-built lavatory. In case it doesn't have one, you should look up for all the campsites, hotels, and stops along the way. However, it is recommended to have an ensuite as Indian caravans have the facility now.
- Your campervan should be solid in construction. Think about things like the length, weight, and maneuverability of the caravan that you’re going to purchase.
Tip: Always get a caravan checked from a mechanic or a garage before you embark upon a trip. Try to get hold of a driver who is well-aware of highway rules and regulations. Self-drive can get exhausting after a while.
Step 3: Packing & Preparations for the Campervan Tour
- Permit: You need to get a road permit (national/state level depending on your tour) You have to stay abreast of the caravan policies in India as it sees a few alterations every now and then. In case you are tying up with an established caravan rental, they do the needful for you.
- Clothing: Your clothing choice depends on the season you're traveling in or the weather prevailing in the choice of destination. However, you should be packing light. You can avoid taking fancy stuff and dressy clothes because Campervan tours are usually outdoorsy and rugged. You need to endure comfort.
- Shoes: Sport, closed, and comfortable shoes are the preferable choice. You can carry a pair of flip-flops too.
- Cutlery: If your campervan doesn't come with complimentary cutlery, you will need to carry basic utensils, cutlery, and crockery for cooking. You do not have to carry all of your kitchen, just a handful of plates, ingredients, and dishes to cook will do.
- Food: Campervan trips are all about minimalistic foods. Try taking packaging and ready to eat food along. MTR Ready to eat breakfast and cereals would be a good choice. Carry enough snacks and nibbles for odd-hour hunger pangs. A lot of Maggi to the rescue, folks!
- Toiletries & Linens: Carry a minimum of 2 towels per head. You should take toiletries like a body wash that can be used by everyone instead of soap. Sheets to spread out and camp. Extra blankets and puff-out pillows are recommended.
- Safety kit: Medicines, banda-aids, ointments should be kept handy in case of unforeseen events and mishaps.
- Camping kit: irrespective of whether you're camping or not, you need to carry a few camping essentials. Camping chairs (foldable) are highly recommended.
- Others: Keep your playlist ready. You're going to want some music en route as it's going to be a long journey. Most Campervans have television sets so you can take movies along with yourself. If it's a need, you can take a portable Wi-Fi.
Take That Campervan Trip!
Now that you're all set with the planning and preparation, take that damn campervan tip! As much as you're going to enjoy the journey and the stay in the Campervan, you should be on the lookout for any foul play along the way. Just stay alert and enjoy yourself.
Are you looking forward to taking a Campervan trip? Let us know where you'd be heading to first in the comments below!