Camping is set for another strong year in 2026, with more travellers opting for their first campervan or motorhome holiday and choosing to stay closer to home due to rising flight prices and increasing travel disruption. With rental stations located across the UK and Europe, roadsurfer offers some practical advice for first-time campervan travellers.
From coastal escapes to national park adventures, travellers are seeking flexible, nature-led experiences without the stress of airports or expensive overseas trips. Renting a campervan is an affordable and accessible way to experience the freedom of the open road, combined with the reassurance and convenience of a professional provider.
Five expert tips from roadsurfer for first-time campers:
- Time to get used to it
The first camper trip is always a learning curve. From judging the size of the vehicle to organising belongings in a compact space and adapting to a new routine, most things quickly become second nature within a few days, including parking! - Loose route, explore along the way
When camping, the journey is often just as enjoyable as the destination. Overplanning can take away from the experience. A loose route allows for spontaneous stops, recommendations from locals, and unexpected discoveries along the way; whether that’s a hidden lake, a village café, or a scenic viewpoint. Campsite apps also make it easy to find and book suitable spots while travelling. Keeping a general destination in mind while allowing for flexibility often leads to the most memorable experiences. - Pack only the essentials
Overpacking is a common mistake. Versatile clothing helps maximise space, while soft bags are easier to store than hard-shell suitcases. Campervans offer a range of compartments and storage areas that can be used efficiently, making organised packing key to getting the most out of the available space. - Get to know the technology before departure
Becoming familiar with the key systems; including the power supply, water system, and gas, before setting off can make the start of the trip far more relaxed and help the first night run smoothly. - For a first trip, renting from a professional provider
Professional campervan rental companies can provide reassurance for first-time campers through comprehensive vehicle introductions, standardised equipment, and accessible support throughout the trip. This can be particularly helpful if technical questions or unexpected issues arise, making professional providers a reliable option for those new to campervan travel.
Markus Dickhardt, CEO and co-founder of roadsurfer says “Many first-time campers think they have to get everything right from the start – but camping is really about staying flexible and learning along the way.”
Accessible and affordable, roadsurfer has a modern fleet of campervans from compact models perfect for couples to spacious, family-friendly campers with extra comfort. The vans feature cosy beds, indoor heating, kitchens and outdoor seating.
Each booking includes unlimited mileage, a free second driver, and pets are welcome too.
Perfect for families or groups of friends is a Surfer Suite that includes a pop-up roof, integrated kitchenette and plenty of storage.
Prices from £118 per night based on June 2026 travel.
To celebrate roadsurfer’s 10th anniversary, enjoy a special discount with the code HAPPY10 for 10% off.
For more information, and to book visit: https://roadsurfer.com/uk/
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