Forget airport queues, baggage restrictions and rigid itineraries. For families looking to embrace the great outdoors and enjoy quality time together, a campervan holiday offers the ultimate freedom to explore, discover and make memories along the way.
Whether it’s waking up beside the coast, stopping for an impromptu picnic or spending evenings stargazing, travelling by campervan turns the journey itself into part of the holiday. With the flexibility to set their own pace, families can swap busy schedules for spontaneous adventures, outdoor play and precious time together.
And while the prospect of sharing a small space with energetic little travellers might seem daunting, a little forward planning can make all the difference.
roadsurfer, a leading campervan and motorhome rental company, shares its seven top tips for a stress-free family road trip, proving that adventures on four wheels can be just as enjoyable for parents as they are for children.
Seven Top Tips for Campervan Adventures with Children
1. Safety first, adventures second
Before booking, check that your chosen campervan can safely accommodate the children’s car seats. Not all vehicle seats are suitable for child restraints, so it’s important to confirm compatibility, seatbelt requirements and approved fitting positions in advance. Getting the practicalities sorted before departure means more time to enjoy the adventure once you’re on the road.
2. Pack for every adventure
From waterproofs and wellies to sun hats and cosy blankets, the weather can be unpredictable. Don’t forget favourite teddies, bedtime stories and familiar snacks to help little ones feel at home on the road. Remember, not the entire toy box – a few favourites will do!
3. Keep driving days short and sweet
Children can get restless on long journeys, so plan regular breaks for playgrounds, nature walks, beaches and ice-cream stops. After all, the journey should be just as fun as the destination. Rather than trying to cover too much ground, choose shorter routes with time for unexpected discoveries. Sometimes the most memorable moments happen when you take a detour.
4. Keep little adventurers entertained
Pack a mini adventure kit with colouring books, travel games, binoculars and a nature scavenger hunt. Perfect for rainy afternoons in the van or keeping little hands busy between stops. For older kids, give them a camera or let them help choose the next stop. Who knows, they might even become the family’s very own tour guide!
5. Embrace the campervan chaos
Muddy shoes, rainy afternoons and the occasional sibling squabble are all part of the adventure. Make the evenings extra cosy with warm sleeping bags, family board games and hot chocolate. Don’t worry if everything doesn’t go to plan – sometimes the soggy, slightly chaotic moments become the best family stories.
6. Keep the chaos organised
Campervans are cosy, but when the whole family’s living in one space, a little organisation goes a long way! Give everyone their own bag for clothes, keep snacks within easy reach and pack a few collapsible storage bags for muddy clothes and sandy beach gear. And don’t forget to agree on where everything lives, otherwise, finding one missing shoe can turn into a family treasure hunt.
7. Choose campsites that keep everyone happy
The right campsite can make a family holiday even more enjoyable. Look for locations with child-friendly facilities, such as playgrounds, swimming pools, sports areas and plenty of open space to explore. Choosing a campsite close to beaches, walking trails or family attractions also means less time driving and more time enjoying the destination. And while the children burn off energy making new friends, parents might even find a moment to put their feet up.
Your Home on Wheels: Family Adventures Made Easy
Accessible and affordable, roadsurfer has a modern fleet of campervans from compact models perfect for a parent and child to spacious, family-friendly campers sleeping four with extra comfort. The vans feature cosy beds, indoor heating, air conditioning, kitchens and come with outdoor camping chairs.
With unlimited mileage and a free second driver included in every booking, families can share the driving and explore at their leisure. Four-legged family members needn’t miss out either, as dogs are welcome too.
roadsurfer has depots across Europe, as well as in the UK and Ireland, with locations in London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Bristol and Dublin, making it easy for families to embark on a road trip closer to home or further afield.
Prices start from £59 per night based on March 2027 travel.
For more information, and to book visit: https://roadsurfer.com/uk/
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