Campervan rental : the complete guide to a successful road trip

Want to hit the road and embark on a unique adventure? Renting a campervan means enjoying the freedom to explore at your own pace. Imagine yourself behind the wheel of your mobile home, with your partner or family, ready to explore breathtaking landscapes. 

But for your road trip to be a success, good preparation is essential. This comprehensive guide takes you step by step through your project, from renting the van to planning your itinerary, including the essential equipment and choosing the right campervan.

Before departure

The key to a successful road trip is like a good recipe: it requires preparation! At WeVan, we help you plan everything so that all you have to do is enjoy yourself.

Choosing a vehicle

Want to rent a campervan, van, or roof tent? At WeVan, we have it all! Campervans are compact and versatile, ideal for two to four people. Vans offer more space, comfort, and autonomy, perfect for long trips. Roof tents are the ultra-light option for adventurers who want to keep their freedom of movement.
We help you find the ideal vehicle for your group and your desires in this comprehensive guide.

Itinerary

Plan a rough itinerary to allow for flexibility depending on the weather, taking into account distances, travel times, and points of interest. (And if you're lacking inspiration, we have plenty of road trip ideas on our website, as well as travel guides for exploring France, Norway, and Portugal).

Equipment

Make a list of essentials: weather-appropriate clothing (you can never be too careful!), toiletries, a travel first aid kit, and any equipment specific to your activities (hiking gear, bikes, fishing equipment, etc.).
Also remember to check the equipment provided with your campervan rental: kitchen utensils, bed linen, and solar shower.

Shopping

Stock up on supplies before you leave: opt for simple recipes, quick meals, and picnic foods. Need inspiration? Check out our recipe ideas for each season: spring, summer, andfall. Also take into account the size of the refrigerator, which may vary depending on the model of campervan you rent, but don't forget the essentials for an evening of drinks and board games!

D-Day

The big day has arrived! Here are a few tips to help you get started with your campervan rental with complete peace of mind (and no stress) :

Getting started with your campervan

Take a tour of the vehicle with one of our WeVan experts to check its overall condition, equipment, and any damage. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the controls and specific features of the campervan. And don't hesitate to ask any questions you may have—that's what we're here for!

Loading

Optimize space by storing your belongings in packing cubes or simple tote bags. Secure heavy items to prevent them from moving during the journey, especially when braking.
Tip: rented vans offer more storage compartments, so take advantage of this to organize your belongings by use.

Final checks

Make sure you have all the necessary documents (driver's license, vehicle registration, insurance), and test the equipment (lights, heating) before leaving your WeVan agency. All you have to do now is connect your phone to enjoy your favorite playlist.

During your road trip

Freedom is yours! Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your adventure (and avoid any hassles) :

Where to sleep

Camping areas, authorized parking lots, wild camping (in compliance with local regulations)... There are many options for sleeping in your campervan rental. Use dedicated apps to find the best spots. And if you need advice, we offer5 options for sleeping in a campervan on our website!

Water management

Be mindful of your water consumption, and remember to fill up and empty your tanks (we explain how to do this here) before settling in for the night. Use biodegradable products for washing dishes and showering.
Campervan rentals generally have larger water tanks than vans: perfect for several days without stopping.

Safety

Follow the rules of the road, adapt your driving to weather conditions and the size of your rental campervan. Never leave valuables in plain sight. We want you to come home with great memories, not unpleasant surprises!

On your return

Your campervan road trip is coming to an end, but the memories will stay with you forever! And we hope you have plenty to share with us!

Cleaning

Return your campervan rental in the same condition you found it. Empty the waste water, clean the interior and exterior of the vehicle. And don't forget to fill up the tank before returning the campervan to your WeVan agency.

Sharing experiences

Was your choice of van the right one? Did you find the comfort and practicality you were looking for? Make a note of the strengths and any improvements for your future trips. Feel free to share your adventures on social media and with your friends and family. Your stories may inspire other travelers. And don't forget to tag us @we_van, we love seeing your photos!

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>>> Article written by Chloé Ferrari 

 >>> Photos by Gürkan Yildirim, Thibaut Prioux and Bertrand Lanneau