14 Essentials to Avoid Minor Mishaps on the Road
Camper Van Emergency Kit
One of the fastest ways a road trip can go south (and we don’t mean for margaritas on the beach in Baja) is to be caught off-guard and unprepared for a minor mishap.
Our first piece of advice for all camper van owners and renters is to familiarize yourself with the vehicle. Spend some time reading through the user manual to better understand the unique aspects of your specific camper van model.
Once you’re well acquainted with the ins and outs of your camper van, research what kind of climate and weather you’ll be facing on your journey. Different seasons bring different stressors on your camper van, which require explicit attention and extra care.
As we transition to the cooler temperatures and wetter conditions of fall and winter, now is the prime time to make sure your van is equipped with an emergency kit. There are several items we recommend keeping on hand in case things happen to go awry.
The Checklist:
Hazard Sign/Indicators: Place on or outside of the camper van to let others know you’re stopped and addressing an issue.
Spare Tire: Make sure you know how to remove the spare for use and have practiced/knowledge on how to change a flat tire.
Lug Nut Wrench: Essential for loosening and tightening the lug nuts on your wheels.
Jack: Lift part of your van, allowing access to change a tire or perform light repairs.
Headlight Bulbs: Make sure your path ahead is always well light, especially if you’re camping in less managed and maintained areas.
Fuses: An added protection, just in case one blows while on your trip.
Jumper Cables/Jump Pack: Portable jump starters allow you to jump a camper van yourself if needed.
Wrench Set & Screwdriver: Perform minor repairs on your van with these essentials.
Engine Oil: Grab a quart size bottle before you head off on your trip—just in case!
Coolant: Coolant levels can vary, especially with older Vanagons—It’s always nice to have this on hand.
Tire Chains: Great to have as the snow starts to fall. If you’re headed over a mountain pass you may even be required to have these.
Car Battery: Older batteries are particularly susceptible to those first real cold, frosty nights.
Traction Mats: If you ever find yourself stuck in mud or a precarious situation, these mats will often do the trick.
To help prevent more serious issues from devastating your road trip, we recommend bringing your camper van into the shop for a check-up before any major trip with a lot of miles involved. Spring and fall, the seasons before more extreme weather, are excellent times to look over things to ensure your camper van is in good shape. Contact our shop to schedule an appointment with one of our mechanics, and we’ll make sure you’re ready for your next adventure—not breakdown—on the road.
