First-Time Family Campervan Hire

Thinking about trying a campervan holiday with the children, but not sure where to start?

You’re not alone.

Lots of our guests are first-time campervanners, and we completely understand that it can feel like a bit of a leap at first.

What do you pack?

Where do you go?

Will the children sleep?

How do the beds work?

What happens if it rains?

The good news is, campervan holidays don’t need to be complicated. With the right van, a few simple plans and a little bit of support before you go, they can be one of the easiest and most memorable ways to get away as a family.

Why campervans are brilliant for families

A campervan gives you freedom without needing to tow, pitch a huge tent or pack half the house.

You have your own little base wherever you go. Somewhere to make a cuppa, hide from a rain shower, get changed after the beach, cook a simple dinner and settle down for the night.

For children, it feels like a proper adventure.

For grown-ups, it gives you a little more comfort, flexibility and freedom than traditional camping.

What makes Up Sticks family-friendly

Our campervans are ideal for families who want a simple, manageable adventure.

They include:

• 5 belted seats

• sleeping space for up to 4

• pop-top roof bed

• downstairs RIB bed

• compact kitchen area

• kettle and mugs for your first cuppa

• optional Kitchen Kit

• optional bedding and comfort upgrades

• dog-friendly option available

They’re big enough to feel like an adventure, but still easy enough to drive and park.

What happens before you go

We don’t just hand you the keys and wave you off.

Before your trip, we’ll send everything you need to know, including collection details, paperwork reminders and helpful information for your adventure.

On collection day, we’ll show you around the campervan and explain how everything works, including the roof, bed and key features.

You’ll have time to ask questions, and we’re always happy to help if anything pops up while you’re away.

Where should you go first?

For a first family campervan trip, we usually recommend keeping things simple.

Choose somewhere within a couple of hours if you can. That way, you spend less time driving and more time enjoying the trip.

Good first-trip ideas include:

• Norfolk coast

• Suffolk coast

• family-friendly campsites with good facilities

• dog-friendly campsites

• woodland sites

• beachside stays

• short weekend escapes

You don’t need a huge road trip for your first go. Sometimes two or three nights close to home is perfect.

What should you pack?

Keep it simple.

You’ll want:

• bedding or sleeping bags

• pillows

• towels

• warm layers

• waterproofs

• easy food

• children’s favourite snacks

• torches

• chargers

• games or books

• wellies

• a relaxed attitude

You can also add our Kitchen Kit or Comfort Collection upgrades if you want to travel lighter.

What if it rains?

Honestly? Sometimes it will.

But that doesn’t mean the trip is ruined.

Rainy campervan days can still be lovely with the right mindset. Think hot chocolate, card games, cosy socks, a pub lunch, a woodland walk in waterproofs or a film tucked up in the van.

A little rain often becomes part of the story.

Ready to try your first family campervan adventure?

We’ll help make it feel simple from the moment you book.

FAQ

Do I need campervan experience?

No. Lots of our guests are first-timers, and we’ll show you how everything works before you leave.

Are your campervans easy to drive?

They’re VW campervans, so they feel much more manageable than a large motorhome.

Can children travel safely?

Yes, our campervans have five belted seats, with ISOFix in the rear two seats.

Do you provide bedding?

Bedding isn’t included as standard, but you can add bedding and comfort upgrades if you’d like to travel lighter.

Can we bring our dog?

Yes, our campervans are dog-friendly. A pet charge applies.