KNOW WHAT YOU HAVE TO KNOW WHAT YOU NEED
As a side note, there really is no need to rush out and buy everything new for your van. If you've ever been camping you'll be surprised at how much you've already got. Your vans personality will develop over time.
Here we go then...the long list for the recce. Lets start with the Do's first then follow on with the Don'ts.
Get ready....
DO:
Pack lightly, you'll be surprised how little you need.
Always carry a supply of wet wipes (preferably biodegradable) to freshen up when off grid.
Take pots, pans, crockery, cutlery, bedding etc from home. No point buying anything until you know what you need.
Planning on camping off grid? Fill the water container before leaving.
Check that the gas canister is sufficiently full for your needs, nothing worse than the gas running out halfway through cooking dinner,
Take a lighter to ignite the gas.
Sign up for breakdown cover for that little extra peace of mind.
Use low voltage appliances (12V) to run off electric hook-up, normal domestic appliances will trip the fuses.
Store pots, pans, cutlery etc in soft foldable storage boxes/cutlery wrap. All these things will rattle when you're on the move and its VERY annoying. So ensure they're tightly packed up in your drawers and cupboards.
If you need to purchase a mattress for your pop top remember to check the available length and depth to ensure the pop top closes when the mattress is in place.
Store a source of battery powered lights in the van to be used in the event of a low leisure battery when off grid.
If your van is not fitted with blackout blinds/curtains, take something to cover the windows for warmth and privacy.
Take some fairy lights to decorate the interior, they will bring a real magic to a cosy evening in the van.
Always take extra water in sealed bottles when camping off grid.
OKAY...now for the don'ts.
DON'T:
Clutter your van unnecessarily, it will give the illusion of limited space. VAN LIFE = SIMPLE LIFE.
Forget to seal the main water container (under the sink) as water can spill during the journey.
Forget to secure your pop top when driving to avoid wind getting underneath and lifting it when your'e on the road.
forget to add chemicals to the portable toilet if you have one.
Stay overnight where it is not permitted...chances are you WILL get a ticket.
Continue to drive when tired...you have a van, find a suitable place to stop, have a cup of tea and rest up.
QUICK TIP...in case you didn't know (I didn't)
When on electric hook-up remember, only the electric sockets are powered by the mains electricity, the USB points will still run off the leisure battery. So to prolong the life of your leisure battery either, charge all phones, speakers etc while you are driving or use a USB charging plug when on hook-up.
PHEW...all done.
Check out my next blog for information on Brit Stops.
WITH THE RIGHT PREPARATION, ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE
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