If the thought of packing for a holiday fills you with dread — you’re not alone. It’s easy to overpack or forget something useful. But getting ready for a motorhome or campervan trip doesn’t need to be stressful. In fact, it’s a lot like preparing for any self-catering break — just with a bit more flexibility in mind.

At Go Explore, we’ve pulled together the most useful packing tips based on real-world experience and feedback from our team and customers. Whether it’s your first trip or you’re a returning traveller, these ideas will help you feel more prepared — and less weighed down.

Kitchen Essentials – What’s Already Supplied

Let’s start with the good news: you don’t need to bring everything but the kitchen sink. Each Go Explore motorhome or campervan comes fully equipped with:

• Cutlery and crockery for the number of berths

• Cooking utensils, pots and pans

• Handy extras like a bottle opener, colander, grater and measuring jug

You’ll have everything you need to cook and eat comfortably. If you’re arriving by car, you’re welcome to bring along your own extras — even an air fryer, if you plan to stay at sites with electric hook-up. Just be careful not to overload the vehicle’s electrical system by running multiple appliances at once.

Top tip: Add seasoning, cooking oil and a few freezer bags or plastic containers to your first grocery shop. These help store opened packets securely, avoid spills and keep things tidy in transit. The fridges are a good size, but smaller bottles or cartons are easier to manage than large containers.

Personal Hygiene – Keeping Things Comfortable

Campsite facilities are usually excellent, but bringing a few personal touches can make life easier, especially when travelling with family.

• Flip-flops or crocs are ideal for walking to and from showers

• A separate bag for towels, toiletries and clean clothes is very useful

• A hoodie or jacket is perfect if you prefer to cover up when walking to campsite facilities

Some people stroll over in dressing gowns, others prefer something more practical. Whatever works for you, being comfortable is what matters.

Clothing and Storage – What to Bring and How to Pack

This is where it really pays to plan ahead. Storage space varies by vehicle, so we recommend packing in soft, flexible bags or using packing cubes.

Storage by Vehicle Type

• Outlander Campervans – Compact space behind the rear seat and some small cupboards

• MacBeth Campervans – Overhead cupboards above the bed and storage beneath for shoes and bags

• Motorhomes – Overhead cupboards, a small wardrobe, bathroom cabinet and a large garage area accessible from outside

Hard suitcases take up space and don’t flex easily, so opt for holdalls or recycled laundry bags. Some customers use packing cubes inside their suitcases and transfer them into the cupboards once onboard. If you’re parking with us, we can store empty cases during your trip.

Most campsites offer laundry facilities, so you don’t need to pack a full wardrobe. It’s also a great way to refresh clothing if you’re on the road for more than a few days.

We’re big fans of the large laundry bags from Rex London — they fold down easily when not in use and are great for storing everything from clothes to toys and beach gear.

Outdoor Furniture – Already Supplied

We supply outdoor tables and chairs with every vehicle. For Outlander campervans, just request them when booking. If you’d prefer to use your own, let us know and we’ll remove ours before your handover.

There’s nothing better than relaxing outside your motorhome with a hot drink or a book after a day’s exploring.

Final Tips from the Road

• Pack light, think layers, and be ready for changing weather

• Bring a power bank, small torch and a reusable water bottle

• Make use of local shops and markets for fresh produce

• Keep your clothing and gear organised with small bags or cubes

• Ask us if you’re not sure what’s included in your vehicle — we’re happy to help

Summary

Packing for a motorhome or campervan trip doesn’t need to be complicated. Travel light, be practical, and trust that your Go Explore vehicle has the essentials covered.

Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, a bit of planning goes a long way. And if you ever have questions about your specific model, storage space or what to expect, feel free to get in touch.

Call us on 0141 773 1212 or drop us an email and we’ll be happy to help make your trip smooth from the very first mile.