Campervan Tips: Road Trips With Kids

Planning a UK campervan road trip with the kids? Whether you’re setting off on your very first family adventure or you’ve got a glovebox full of well-worn maps, a little forward thinking makes all the difference.

From last-minute loo stops to "are we nearly there yet?" moments, campervan travel with children has its quirks. But it also brings unbeatable freedom, flexibility, and time together. With the right setup and a few clever tricks, a family campervan road trip is the perfect way to turn everyday weekends and school holidays into something a bit more special.

So, we’ve pulled together the best campervan tips, tried and tested by real families, to help you pack smarter, plan better, and enjoy every mile.

Make the most of your campervan set-up

Plan for the journey, not just the destination

Keep entertainment easy (and screen-light)

Set up your living space right

Make mealtimes easy

Pack smart: less is more

Take family campervan trips to the next level

Remember: it’s about the moments

Make the most of your campervan set-up

One of the best things about a campervan holiday is how self-sufficient you can be, especially with little ones in tow. Whether it’s storing snacks in the onboard fridge, using the built-in hob for a quick breakfast, or having a proper sink on hand for sticky fingers, your van comes ready-made for family life on the move.

These small but essential campervan tips can help you stay one step ahead:

• Use your built-in features: Cook meals, store fresh food, and keep drinks cool with your campervan’s kitchen setup. It makes a big difference on longer drives.
• Tidy equals calm: Baskets, pouches and labelled boxes are a lifesaver for keeping things accessible and clutter-free – especially when you’ve got toys, snacks and nappies to think about.
• Secure your kit: Make sure all loose items are stowed away before setting off. Not just for safety, but also to save your sanity mid-bend!

Plan for the journey, not just the destination

A UK campervan road trip isn’t just about where you’re going, it’s how you get there. With kids, the drive is part of the adventure, so take your time and make room for moments along the way.

Here are a few campervan travel tips to help everyone enjoy the ride:

• Stop often: Parks, nature reserves and family-friendly cafés are great for burning off energy and breaking up the miles.
• Time it right: Travelling outside peak traffic windows makes for a smoother experience all round, especially with a baby in the campervan.
• Let them in on the plan: A basic itinerary helps kids feel involved and gives them something to look forward to between stops.

Research ahead to find scenic spots, quirky roadside stops, or even playgrounds en route – your future self will thank you!

Keep entertainment easy (and screen-light)

When you're travelling in a road trip campervan, the space doubles as your lounge, playroom, and peace zone. Keep a stash of easy wins close to hand:

• Low-fuss activities: Think sticker books, colouring kits, puzzles, and cards. Bonus points if they fit in a zip pouch.
• Family-friendly playlists: Music and audiobooks go a long way on longer drives, and can be a welcome screen-free alternative.
• Bring home comforts: Favourite teddies, pillows or cosy blankets help younger kids settle during downtime or naps on the go.

For families with toddlers or babies in the campervan, keeping a small box of distractions within reach can be a game-changer.

Set up your living space right

When it comes to campervan living tips, good layout and clever use of space are your best friends. With a few small tweaks, you can make your van feel like a proper home-from-home.

• Create zones: Set up clear areas for sleeping, eating, and relaxing. It keeps things flowing and helps with routines.
• Blackout for better sleep: Blackout blinds are brilliant for early bedtimes and daytime naps, especially in summer.
• Storage wins: Use hanging organisers and under-seat bins to store kids' clothes, wipes, or toys without cluttering up your main space.

Choosing a family-friendly campsite with proper facilities (play areas, family showers, etc.) can also make overnight stops much easier and more enjoyable.

Make mealtimes easy

One of the biggest family campervan holiday tips? Sort food out in advance. With hungry kids and limited time, easy meals and plenty of snacks make everything feel smoother.

• Stock smart: Use your campervan fridge or a cool box to keep ingredients fresh and easy to access.
• Prepping helps: Chop veg, pre-cook pasta or batch-make sandwiches the night before you travel.
• Snack often: Have fruit, crackers, and refillable water bottles handy so you’re not constantly stopping.
• Make mealtimes an event: Park up somewhere with a view and turn lunch into a mini picnic.

Using your CamperKing’s built-in features, like the fridge, sink and gas hob, makes keeping everyone fed much simpler, whether you're stopping for an hour or staying put for the night.

Find some our kid-friendly recipes ideas here

Pack smart: less is more

When it comes to campervan packing tips, the golden rule is to keep it light and organised. Bring versatile clothing, collapsible cookware, and don’t forget layered options for unpredictable UK weather. If you're travelling with a baby in a campervan, consider compact versions of your must-haves—folding highchairs, travel cots, and soft storage for toys.

Learn a few essential French phrases

Still wondering what to take on a campervan road trip? Here’s a quick checklist:

• Bedding and blackout blinds
• First aid kit
• Baby wipes (even if you don’t have a baby!)
• Reusable water bottles
• Charging cables and power banks
• Camping chairs and a folding table
• Rain gear and wellies

Looking for everything you need to make your family campervan trip a success? Explore our collection of necessities and campervan accessories in the CamperKing Shop.

Take family campervan trips to the next level

As a CamperKing Campervan owner, you can join Club CamperKing and get more from every trip, with benefits designed for families who love life on the road:

• Invitations to family-friendly events and meetups
• Exclusive savings on campervan accessories and travel essentials
• Real advice from fellow parents who’ve been there and packed that
• A supportive community for sharing tips, stories, and inspiration
• A space where van-loving families feel right at home

Ready to make the most of every mile? Join Club CamperKing today.

Remember: it’s about the moments

Family campervan travel isn’t always picture-perfect, but that’s part of the adventure. Whether you're winding through the Lake District or camping on the Cornish coast, the best stories come from the unplanned moments. Use these campervan tips as your guide, then make the trip your own.

Looking for your perfect family-ready campervan? Explore the full CamperKing range or visit us at one of our dealerships to find your fit. For accessories, gear and ideas to make your campervan with kids trips even smoother, visit the CamperKing Shop.