Looking out at a stunning sunset or an incredible mountain view is one thing in your everyday vehicle. But in a campervan, that feeling of true adventure is brought home in full.
Why? Because the chances are you’re admiring the sights on a tour.
I have been campervanning for many years now but this feeling really hit home earlier this year when I took part in CamperKing’s Freedom 500 expedition around Scotland’s North Coast 500 (NC500).
I was part of a team testing the VW T7 Freedom, one of our latest models, to assess the effectiveness of the van’s Renogy advanced power system without relying on an electric hook-up when pitched up at night.
Yes, it was work and yes there was a central focus on testing the vehicles of course. But it was also a joy to remind myself of just how much I enjoy driving along this country’s scenic roads. That feeling of getting behind the wheel of one of our VW T7 campervans, starting the engine, securing the seatbelt and hitting the road with incredible views all around.
I know I’m a campervan convert, but the vehicle really is your ever-ready companion, offering both the thrill of the drive and the comfort of home at the same time.
When I was cruising along the roads of the NC500 I found myself subconsciously smiling all the time. You’re naturally more inclined to go somewhere you’ve never been before or look at familiar places in a whole new light – and all through the lens of campervanning and exploration.
The feeling of discovery was intense, especially when you know you can stop conveniently at the side of a road in a designated spot, brew up a hot drink, fold out some chairs and appreciate the slow pace of life for a while as you admire the view – something a car just doesn't match.
It was important that our CamperKing tour of the NC500 took a responsible approach and followed the correct etiquette so we signed up to the Visitor Pledge.
We even went beyond the pledge. In addition to leaving no trace from our own visit we also cleared up other people’s litter at the end of each day in beauty spots.
As routes like this continue to grow in popularity, responsible travel is more important than ever. We wanted our Freedom 500 expedition to demonstrate not only what’s possible with off-grid travel, but how it can be done responsibly – supporting local areas and using authorised overnight locations throughout the trip. It was something we were very proud of.
I’ve never owned a car I’ve fully designed or customised before, but with the campervan I know I’ve influenced almost every stitch of upholstery and added all the features I know I’ll use, making it a much more precious and bespoke vehicle to own.
What memories! I can feel that smile spreading across my face again as I think about it now.