Here’s my guide to essential equipment for campervan trips
Most seasoned campers will have their essential equipment with them and they are usually well prepared, but what about the rest of us? I have to admit I hate packing and most of the time I leave it to the last minute, much to the annoyance of my wife.
The result of me failing to prepare properly means I always forget something, and its usually something we really needed. This has the potential to spoil the trip or ends up with a trip to the local shops! Trust me, I now have a collection of bottle openers and can openers!
In this ‘blog series’ I will cover a range of different types of equipment and focus on one area in each blog post. So here are a few essentials to get the less frequent campers among us started, and before long you’ll be building your own list of what you need to pack!
Safety Equipment
Not the most glamorous of all camping equipment but one of the most essential and could save your or your families lives.
First Aid Kit
Just in case someone has an accident and thrust me, traveling with young children accidents usually happen. Good to keep around with the addition of a good a First Aid book! It’s also worth keeping an eye on the ‘use by dates’ some first aid supplies have a expiry date and are unsterile once out of the recommended period, and always remember to restock what you have used.
Fire Blanket
If you are cooking in your van then having some way of controlling fire is essential. Fire Blankets are easy enough to pack away and keep close to hand should your require to use it. They are also relatively cheap to purchase.
Fire Extinguisher
Fire extinguishers also provide an additional means of controlling or putting out fires if they start. Its worth considering and checking the type of extinguisher before purchase. Fire extinguisher types can perform better when tackling different types of fires, so when purchasing an extinguisher its better to discuss your requirements with the retailer who will be able to suggest a suitable extinguisher.
Smoke/Gas Detector
Probably the most essential piece of equipment for your campervan, this will keep you safe and could prevent the outbreak of fires and stop you being overcome with carbon monoxide gas. Its worth checking that the detector is working properly, keep it clean and free from dust. Detectors can be fitted into your camper or can be purchase after. Detectors that are not connected into the campers electrical system will mean you need to check the batteries and its also good to carry spare batteries with you.
mobile phone and Charger
I know everyone nowadays has a mobile phone but its worth considering this as essential equipment to be use to summon help in times of emergencies. Its also worth considering the battery life of your handset as current smart phones use more power and require to be charged more often. On longer camping trips its worth making sure you have a charging lead or back up portable power supply.
personal alarm
Alarms are good to keep to hand for those trips to the toilet during the night if you don’t have a toilet in your camper. Some campsite are not well lilt and toilets can be some distance away for you pitch.
Emergency Provisions
If you are traveling of the ‘beaten track’ then having additional provisions of food and water is a sensible suggestion. There’re vital if traveling out of seasons as its possible to be snowed in if the weather takes a turn.
Breakdown Cover/Spare Tyre, Tyre Foam
Ensuring your camper has breakdown cover is essential when travelling anywhere and a ‘must have’ if you are travelling abroad. Check your spare tyre is there and that the tread is within the legal limit. Its also worth considering what you would do if you had multiple punctures, carrying puncture repair foam and a pump will mean you are able to get to the nearest garage.
What safety essentials do you take when camping? Please add a comment and share your knowledge with the community!
caddy campers 
Pingback: Dummies’ Guide to Campervan Essential Equipment | caddy campers