Don’t forget to bring these on your campervan trip

If you’re like us, you cannot wait to get out on the open road this year. Cruising the highways, finding uncharted and undiscovered alcoves, exploring places you’ve always wanted to explore but never had the chance to do it. Well, now’s the time! Outdoor activities like biking, hiking, backpacking, fishing and especially camping, have taken centre stage as we look for ways to enjoy our free time, stay isolated and practice safe social distancing. People all over Canada plan to spend their holidays closer to home. And it’s not a bad thing!

Your Karma Campervan rental comes stocked with the camping gear and accessories you’ll need on the road, but don’t forget to pack a few extra essentials to make your experience complete. Below are our top picks for what to bring on your campervan trip. Note, however, this is just the tip of the iceburg… we’ll let you be the judge on what you shouldn’t (can’t) leave behind.

Personal essentials
Always a good idea to bring a small or compact bath towel, toiletries and coins for showers, as well as any medications you may need. While there are pharmacies in most major towns in Western Canada, you won’t want to be without meds.

Board & card games
Pack along your favourite board or card games for cozy evenings in, or rainy days at the campsite. We’ve seen many Guests bring games like crib, UNO, travel chess and the like in case of inclement weather or to relax in the evenings.

Picnic gear
Be ready for a day at the beach or stroll through the woods with a picnic blanket, portable lunch containers, and reusable water bottles. Set up that Instagram-worthy lunch shot… you know, the one your friends will be envious of.

Cozy layers
No matter what season you’re camping in, mornings at the campsite can be a bit chilly. Especially before you get the campfire going. When choosing your clothes, remember to pack cozy layers such as light baselayer wool or puffy coat or synthetics, as well as a waterproof layer. Even when the forecast looks fantastic, things can change in an instant. 

Twinkle lights
Inside or out, be sure to set the mood and get that campsite glow with a string of twinkle lights. They seriously make the best photos. Just look at this example. And this one.

National Parks Pass
Depending on your travel plans, it may be worth it to pick up a National Parks Discovery Pass before you hit the road. The card gives you unlimited admission for the year, and pays for itself in as little as seven days, compared to daily admission fees. This way you can stop whenever you’d like to take a look around. Highly recommend!

Electronics
Bring gear to document the epic sights you’ll see along the road! Don’t forget your phone, camera and chargers. Drones are illegal to fly in all Provincial and National Parks but keep it handy for when you’ve exited the parks.

Sports gear
Plans to fish? Paddleboard? Snowshoe? There’s ample storage for your gear onboard and we have 2″ hitches for your bike carrier (also available as a rental add on).

Hammock
There’s nothing like a hammock to achieve total relaxation and they now come super compact and easy to assemble in a snap.

To-Go mug
Always needed. Often forgotten. The to-go mug has become a staple in campervan and road trip life. Plus it makes early departures a dream when you’re in the middle of nowhere and still need a cup of joe for the next leg of your trip.

Emergency supplies
It pays to be prepared on every adventure. Bring a backpack packed with emergency and outdoor essentials: a navigation tool, first aid kit, sun protection, insect repellant, lighter, pocket knife, headlamp or flashlight, emergency blanket, extra layers, extra food and water, and a water purifier, like a Lifestraw.

What are you bringing along on your next campervan adventure? Tell us what you never camp without on social media using #GoodCamping and tagging us @KarmaCampervans.