Tips and Tactics for Sleeping in a Campervan

Sleeping in a Campervan can be much different than sleeping at home. Especially with kids and/or pets in the van too! We know all too well how tricky it can be to get a good nights rest while camping, so please take a minute to review our recommended tricks and tactics for sleeping in the van. 

Here's what we already include to help you sleep better:

  • We provide small 12v Electric fans to help move air and cool down the van

  • Bug nets are provided, so be sure to install them to allow air flow into your van during warmer periods of the year. You may optionally place the fans near windows to get more air flow.

  • Curtains are included with all of our vans so be sure to shut them to keep light out.

  • Rear Window coverings are provided for large vans (no curtains on rear doors), which are stored underneath the mattress of the lower bunk. Find them and install prior to going to bed.

  • USB Chargers are included on all beds so you have somewhere to plug in your phone charge and power up your devices. Don't forget to pack your chargers!

  • Heaters are installed in most of our Vans, so during winter and shoulder seasons you can stay nice and toasty while sleeping in the van. Be sure to learn more by searching heaters, or user manuals in the chat bot or on our FAQ pages. 

  • A LUNO Mattress can be added as an add-on to your trip. CLICK HERE to learn more.

What else should you bring to help you sleep better:

  • Sound Machine and 12v Inverter - Or use your phone, if you need white noise, or have kids that need something extra to ensure they sleep. 

  • Larger Fan, or Swamp Cooler - We do offer a fan setup, but you'd need to be camping in a location with access to 110v power, or RV hookups for power. Such a fan can be selected as an "Add On" at some of our rental locations, but not ALL. You'll see it during the reservation process if it's available. 

  • Fleece Sheets - In Winter and Colder months, we recommend you bring some cozy sheets to help bring the comfort to another level! Add a mattress pad too if you really want to get fancy :) 

  • Sleep Aids -  You may not be used to sleeping in the great outdoors, and therefore it can't hurt to bring a little Ambien, or other types of sleep aids. Especially for kids that don't sleep well outside of the home. 

  • Ear Plugs -  you may not like to hear nearby campers, cars, owls, or other sounds of nature, and therefore we recommend light ear plugs to help muffle the sounds! Also, these are recommended for colder/shoulder seasons when you'll be running the heater. The ear plugs help muffle the sound of the heater fan and fuel pump, which can be bothersome to some light sleepers. 

  • Portapotty - if you don't like getting up and wandering the woods at night to use the bathroom, we suggest you rent a portapotty (Add-On) for your trip. This provides an easy solution to nighttime bathroom needs for you and the whole family. 

  • For Infants and small children- You can optionally bring a Pack'n'Play, but this will only fit in our large vans by removing the bench and fridge behind the second row. 

  • Secondary Tent - if you have teenagers, or kids that don't go to bed at a normal time, you can optionally add a sleeping tent to your rental, and those rambunctious kids can then sleep outside of the van in a tent a short distance from the van. Not a big deal for most teenagers, and this gives the parents some space to ensure a better nights sleep. 

  • Pet Beds or Crates - if you're traveling with pets, you may want to ensure they also sleep okay, so be sure to bring any items that will help them feel safe, comfortable, and relaxed during the night. 

We hope that these tips and tricks and help you sleep better while on your adventure. There are a wealth of resources online to learn more about how to get a good nights sleep while camping, so if you find yourself nervous about sleeping well, we suggest you do some additional homework! 

 Safe Travels!

nikole mathews