Why a camper van?
Why a camper van?
©MarioGuti/iStock
A camper van brings a promise of parking somewhere different every evening, moving from one stunning natural beauty spot to another, travelling whenever you want and stopping wherever you like. They are currently enjoying a boom in popularity, be it for a weekend near home or longer trips to the other end of the earth.
Brief definition
Camper vans are vans that have been specifically equipped for camping. These mini motorhomes can be bought second-hand or new. Alternatively, you can buy a commercial vehicle and get it fitted out by a professional or an experienced amateur. Some enthusiastic DIY fans even do it themselves!
It then serves as a genuine basecamp providing access to a host of nature spots where you can sleep, cook, eat… The camper van is invariably quickly adopted by the whole family, many of whom give their vehicle a name!
Camper van vs. Motorhome
Much more compact than a motorhome, camper vans are easy to drive in traffic and along narrow roads. Vans less than 2 metres long are also easier to drive in cities, are not affected by roads with height restrictions, can be parked in underground carparks when necessary and are charged less at motorway tolls (category 1 like cars).
Different types of camper vans
There are as many different types as there are interiors and customised versions. They can, however, be broadly ranked in terms of comfort. The most basic simply have a fold-down bench where it is possible to stretch out and sleep. Others are equipped with comfortable bedding, cupboards, insulating (cold and light) curtains, a proper kitchen with a fridge and a gas hob, toilets, shower, stationary heating for cold nights, an extra battery and solar panels for autonomy. The mythical Volkswagen Kombi vans are instantly recognisable by their distinctive front end, headlights like two round eyes and a pop-up roof, which provides an extra room!
Driving a camper van
While vintage camper vans extend an invitation to slow tourism with an average 70km/hr cruising speed, the most recent models drive just like modern, powerful cars.
Driving at the wheel of a camper van is above all about height, offering a sensation of security combined with a fantastic view of the landscape that in turn offers a splendid opportunity to find the best spots to stop.
We recommend following this routine check-list every morning before setting off to avoid any accidents: close the roof and gas, open rear curtains…
Everyone must remain seated while the vehicle is moving and must of course wear seatbelts!
Feel like getting away from it all?
See our suggestions for novel trips and must-see places to visit near your home or holiday destination.