Camper trip checklist: what to arrange and when

A camper trip needs more than a van and a route. Before departure, you need to confirm who is travelling, book overnight stops, check documents and insurance, and test the camper’s essential systems. Food, coolers, cooking equipment, chargers and lighting are easy to overlook until you are already on the road. Use this checklist to work through the practical jobs in order, from setting the budget and planning the route to loading the camper safely.

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The plan, step by step

Every task with its own sub-checklist, in the order you'll actually need them.

Preparations

Confirm travel party
Choose destination
2 people
Plan the route
2 people
Reserve a camper van
Reserve overnight accommodations
Set travel budget
2 people
Share travel details
Process registrations
Collect dietary requirements
Collect emergency contacts
Check the weather forecast
Check documents
2 people
Bring insurance details
Carry out camper inspection
2 people
Check tire pressure
Check fluid levels
Check the gas cylinder
Test technical equipment
2 people
Clean the camper van
2 people
Gather camping supplies
2 people
Pack clothes and luggage
4 people
Do the shopping
2 people
Fill coolers
2 people
Load non-perishable food stock
2 people
Secure luggage safely
2 people
Fill the water tank
Check waste tank
Carry out the departure check
2 people

Event

Hand over the camper van
2 people
Load luggage and supplies
4 people
Drive the route to the destination
2 people
Park the camper on the campsite pitch
2 people
Connect the camper
2 people
Prepare evening meal
2 people
Set the table
Refill drinks
Wash dishes and clean the kitchen
2 people
Close the camper
Check the day program
Prepare breakfast
2 people
Clean the camper daily
2 people
Collect waste
Check water supply
Restock food and drinks
2 people
Refuel camper en route
Prepare the final overnight stay
2 people
Pack the camper for the return trip
4 people

Aftercare

Return camper van
2 people
Refill fuel tank
Empty waste tank
Clean the camper van
2 people
Dry camping gear
2 people
Wash bedding
Clear away leftover food
2 people
Check lost property
2 people
Return rented materials
Handle deposit and documents

What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Furniture

Camper van
Camping table
Camping chairsqty 4
Folding stoolsqty 2

Kitchen

Coolersqty 2
Gas cylinder
Gas stove
Cooking potqty 2
Frying pan
Cutting boardsqty 2
Chef's knife
Can opener
Bottle opener
Coffee maker
Kettle

Tableware

Reusable platesqty 6
Reusable bowlsqty 6
Reusable mugsqty 6
Reusable glassesqty 6
Cutlery setsqty 6
Serving plattersqty 2

Lighting

Rechargeable lanternsqty 2
String lights

Equipment

Navigation system
Power bankqty 2
USB chargersqty 3
Extension cord
Plug adapter
Camping plug
Flashlightsqty 4

Camping

Sleeping bagsqty 4
Cushionsqty 4
Picnic blanket
Clothesline
Clothespinsqty 20
Storage binsqty 4

Safety

First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Reflective vestsqty 4
Warning triangle
Work glovesqty 2

Tools

Pocket knife
Multitool
Ratchet strapsqty 4
Jack
Tire pump

Cleaning

Bucket
Dish brush
Microfiber clothsqty 6
Hand brush and dustpan
Laundry basket

Groceries

Groceries

Tips

Set the route and overnight stops before booking the camper, then allow at least 30 minutes at each planned stop for parking, check-in or a change of plan.
Check passports or other travel documents, insurance details, registrations and emergency contacts at least 7 days before departure; do not leave these checks until the loading day.
Inspect the camper on collection day: check tire pressure, fluid levels, the gas cylinder and technical equipment, and record any existing damage before driving away.
Pack food in two groups: keep non-perishable stock secured in the camper, while chilled food goes into the coolers as late as possible. Plan enough meals for the route plus one extra day.
Test navigation, USB chargers, power banks, lanterns and plug adapters before loading. Keep flashlights and the camping plug accessible instead of burying them under luggage.

Frequently asked questions

How far in advance should I book a camper van?: Book the camper van and overnight accommodations as soon as your destination, travel dates and group are confirmed. Aim for at least 4 to 8 weeks before departure so you can still adjust the route if a stop is unavailable.
What should I check on a camper before leaving?: Check tire pressure, fluid levels, the gas cylinder, technical equipment and visible damage. Allow 30 to 60 minutes for the inspection, and make sure the fridge, lights, power connections and cooking equipment work before you start driving.
How much food should I take on a camper trip?: Plan food for every travelling day and add supplies for 1 extra day in case of delays. Separate non-perishable food from chilled items, fill the coolers shortly before departure and secure all food so it cannot move while driving.
When should I check the weather forecast for a camper trip?: Check the forecast 48 hours before departure and again on the morning you leave. Recheck it daily during the trip, especially before driving long distances or staying overnight outdoors.

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