Renting a campervan for the first time – 10 tips for beginners
Renting a campervan for the first time? Congratulations – you're in for an amazing experience! Here are 10 tips to make your trip easier and more relaxed.
1. Get to know the vehicle before you drive
Take your time during the handover with the rental company. Learn how the gas burner, water pump, diesel heater and electrical system work. It will save you a lot of frustration on the road.
2. Plan the route loosely – and follow the weather
The best thing about a campervan holiday is the spontaneity. Have a rough plan, but be open to detours. Some of the best experiences happen where you least expect them.
Life in a campervan is much better in good weather. Plan your route around the forecast when you can, and always have a plan for bad days too. Bring things to do indoors: card games, books, and have some podcasts ready.
3. Fill up water and empty tanks regularly
Most campsites and motorhome service points have facilities for filling fresh water and emptying grey water. Make it a routine – it only takes a few minutes.
4. Use the Park4Night app
Park4Night is the gold standard for finding overnight spots. Users share locations with views, toilet facilities and reviews. Download offline maps for areas without coverage.
5. Respect nature and local communities
The right to roam allows you to camp in nature, but use common sense. Don't park on private land without permission, take your rubbish with you and leave the spot better than you found it.
6. Drive carefully on narrow roads
Norwegian mountain roads can be narrow with passing places. Take it easy, use passing places and let others through. A campervan is easier to manoeuvre than a motorhome, but it's still wider than a regular car.
7. Always have food and drink on board
In Norway, shops can be far apart. Always have a basic supply of food, snacks and drinks so you don't end up hungry in the middle of nowhere.
Always keep some canned food in the van – it works well as provisions on the days you can't be bothered to cook.
8. Charge the batteries – literally
Campervans typically have a leisure battery that charges while you drive and via solar panels. Use shore power at campsites for a full charge. Limit power usage at night.
9. Check the insurance
Make sure you understand what the insurance covers. Ask the rental company about the excess, damage coverage and what to do in case of an accident. Take photos of the vehicle at pick-up.
10. Enjoy the freedom!
Don't stress. Wake up with a view, make breakfast outdoors, take a spontaneous hike. The whole point of van life is to relax and live in the moment. You have everything you need – right behind the steering wheel.
Ready for your first trip?
Campy McCampface is perfect for first-time campervan renters. All equipment is included, you get a thorough handover, and the vehicle is easy to drive. Pick up in Oslo and hit the road!