What to pack for a GoCheap Campervan holiday

Packing for a holiday is sometimes one of the most stressful parts of the whole process, trying to figure out how many shirts you are going to wear and whether you are going to need certain items can make it seem like such a daunting task. Well fear not, we have the ultimate packing guide for your next campervan holiday. So, you can pack light, enjoy your holiday and take the stress out of getting on the road.

 

Where To Start?

The first thing to know about taking a campervan holiday is that you will need a lot less than you think. At GoCheap Campervans we supply a lot of the basic items that you will need. With every rental we supply your linen and bedding, cookware and crockery. And we also make sure that you are set up with some starter items like toilet chemicals and dishwashing liquid.

So, what do you need to bring?

 

 

Clothing

What you need to pack will depend on where you’re travelling in Australia and the time of year, as the climate varies significantly between regions and seasons. For example, you are not going to need a thick puffer jacket in a Queensland summer. However, if you are heading to Tasmania in winter, it will be a must-have. So, have a think about where you are travelling and when. Also think about what kinds of activities you are planning on undertaking throughout your trip, then you will have a better idea of the clothing that you will need to pack.

Some of the items that we recommend packing in your suitcase are:

• Water/wind-proof jacket
• Warm & Light jacket/sweater
• Thermals (for winter road trips)
• T-shirts & Shorts
• Casual evening wear
• Pyjamas
• Swimming gear
• Light durable footwear
• Shoes/hiking boots
• Socks & Beanie
• Sunhat & Sunglasses

It is important to be prepared for all kinds of weather, no matter which season you are travelling in. However, remember to check the forecast prior to travel to ensure you are prepared.

 

Image: Soft & Cosy bedding in our GoCheap Derwent

Toiletries

Toiletries and medications are a must-have for any traveller. You will need to ensure that you pack all the necessary items that you require daily. Things like toothpaste, shampoo and deodorant as well as medications should always be a part of your luggage. We also recommend packing sunscreen and some basic first-aid items to have on hand just in case.

For toiletries we recommend packing:

• Toothbrush/Toothpaste
• Shampoo/Conditioner/Soap
• Deodorant
• Comb/Hairbrush
• Moisturiser
• Cosmetics
• Razor/shaving cream
• Lip Balm
• Sunscreen
• Mosquito repellent

 

Image: Getting ready in the campervan is easy

 

When it comes to medications this will depend on everyone who is travelling. Ensure that you have all prescription medications with you as well as a list of what you are taking in case of an (unlikely) emergency.

Some of the items that we recommend including are:

• Contact lens/eyeglasses
• Doctor’s certificates/vaccination certificates
• Prescription medications
• Allergy medicine
• Motion sickness medicine or ginger (a natural alternative)
• General painkillers
• First-aid kit (band aids, bandages, antiseptic cream, bug bite spray/cream, stomach antacid)
• Burn gel or cream, especially for sunburns

While we are speaking of medications, prevention is better than a cure, especially when it comes to the Australian sun. The Cancer Council’s “Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek and Slide” campaign is a well-known part of Australian life, with the sun safety message taught to children from an early age. This message encourages users to do the following:

Slip – wear clothing to protect yourself from the sun

Slop – wear sunscreen (SPF50) whenever you are in the sun and reapply regularly

Slap – wear a hat when outdoors

Seek – stay in the shade during the middle of the day when the sun is at its highest

Slide – remember to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes

 

Image: Best companion for couples: GoCheap Tamar

Travel Essentials

What you define as a travel essential will depend on your personal preferences, for example if you are a keen reader a few books or your e-reader may be an essential item to include in your luggage, but there are some essentials that should be in every traveller’s luggage:

• Camera, SD cards/film and chargers or extra batteries
• Mobile phone and charger & adapters
• Documentation such as drivers licence, international drivers permit, insurance, tickets and passes etc. (also include a copy of your emergency contact details as phones can go flat).
• Money, travellers’ cheques, credit cards etc.
• Drink bottle and snacks (we recommend taking a reusable drink bottle with you wherever you go)
• Reusable tote bags; in Australia most shops and supermarkets do not have complimentary shopping bags so pack a couple of canvas tote bags for shopping trips to save you from having to purchase additional bags throughout your trip.

 

Image: Time to relax in your camper

Food Items

All our campervans come equipped with a kitchen! So, it is important to pack some basic groceries. Most travellers do this as their first stop after picking up their campervan.

Some of the basics that you might want to include are:

• Bread
• Rice and/or Pasta
• Fruit and Vegetables
• Salt and Pepper
• Milk and/or milk alternative
• Oil for cooking, Butter and/or Margarine
• Spread like vegemite or peanut butter
• Pantry staples (corn, beans, pasta sauce etc.)

Note: Planning to visit multiple states on your campervan adventure? Keep in mind that Australia has interstate quarantine and biosecurity regulations. Certain fresh produce, plants and other agricultural items can’t be taken across some state borders to help protect local agriculture and ecosystems. Before you cross into another state or territory, check the relevant biosecurity requirements to avoid any surprises along the way.

 

Image: Breakfast time in the GoCheap HiTop

 

Leave Room For Souvenirs

Leave a little extra space in your luggage! It’s easy to focus on packing light, but don’t forget to save some room for the treasures you’ll discover along the way. Australia is full of unique souvenirs, from locally made artwork and handcrafted gifts to quirky magnets, Indigenous art, regional food products and keepsakes that capture the memories of your trip. You’ll be glad you left a little extra space for those special finds before heading home.

 

Image: Stay in the shade with the awning!

 

Ready To Start Planning Your Trip?

We have a bunch of resources, including itineraries, available on our website. You can find some holiday park recommendations in our travel blog, and check the amenities that are included in the campervans that are available.

Call our friendly reservations team on 1300 664 485 or check out our website to see the campervans we have available at our branches!