Festive Road Trip in a Campervan with a Toddler

Planning a festive campervan road trip with a toddler might sound daunting, but trust us, with the right approach, it can be one of the most magical experiences your family will ever share. Between sparkling decorations, cosy family moments, and exploring new places, this type of holiday is brimming with charm—so long as you’re prepared! Below, you’ll find practical tips and tricks to ensure your holiday adventure runs smoothly and keeps your toddler (and your sanity!) in check.

 

 

Plan Your Route Ahead of Time!

The key to planning a road trip with a toddler is preparation. While spontaneity is part of the fun for adults, toddlers thrive on routine and predictability.

• Pre-map your stops: Plan shorter driving stretches, ideally around your child’s nap time. Look for toddler-friendly stops, such as parks, playgrounds, or festive light displays.
• Check accessibility: Ask if your destinations have facilities for campervans, including parking, power hookups, and things like family restrooms or an onsite shop for emergency supplies.
• Holiday events and markets: Research local Christmas markets, light festivals, or holiday parades along your route to keep the festive spirit alive.

Pro tip: Use apps like WikiCamps, CamperMate or Park4Nite to find campervan-friendly stops and hidden gems.

 

 

Pack Smart for the Holidays

When travelling with a toddler, packing is a fine art. You’ll need a balance of essentials and festive extras to keep everyone happy.

Toddler Must-Haves:

• Diapers, wipes, and a portable potty (if your toddler is potty training).
• A travel-friendly highchair or booster seat for meals on the go (you can hire your booster seat from us as well).
• Comfort items like their favourite blanket or stuffed animal to help them feel secure.
• A variety of snacks (think of some festive treats to make it extra special).
• Toys and books to keep them entertained during downtime.

Festive Additions:

• Mini Christmas decorations: String lights, battery-powered candles, or even a tiny tabletop Christmas tree can instantly transform your campervan into a festive haven.
• Matching pyjamas: Holiday PJs are adorable, and they make for some heartwarming family photos!
• Music playlist: Create a mix of holiday tunes and toddler favourites to keep the mood light and cheerful.
• Gifts and surprises: Wrap a few small toys or holiday books to give your toddler throughout the trip—it’ll feel like Christmas morning every day!

 

 

Setting Up a Toddler-Friendly Campervan Space

A cosy, toddler-friendly setup in your campervan is a game-changer. You’ll need a designated area for sleeping, playing, and eating.

• Sleeping arrangements: Our top bunks in our 4 Berth Henty and 6 Berth Derwent have safety nets to create a safe sleeping spot. Keep their favourite bedtime items handy for a familiar nighttime routine.
• Toy bin: Designate a small storage bin for their toys and books to avoid clutter. Rotate the toys daily to keep things fresh and engaging.
• Snack station: Keep a stash of toddler-friendly snacks within easy reach to minimise meltdowns during long drives.

Bonus tip: Use fairy lights or a small nightlight for a warm, festive glow that doubles as soothing lighting for your little one.

 

 

Create a Flexible Holiday Schedule

While it’s tempting to cram your itinerary full of holiday fun, remember to leave room for flexibility. Toddlers can get overwhelmed by too much stimulation, so aim for a mix of activities and downtime.

• Morning outings: Plan your bigger activities (like visiting a holiday market or going for a nature walk) in the morning when your toddler has the most energy.
• Afternoon downtime: Use naptime to relax in the campervan or take shorter scenic drives.
• Evening festivities: If your toddler can handle it, enjoy low-key holiday fun like watching Christmas lights or snuggling up with a holiday movie.

Pro tip: Always have a backup plan in case your toddler isn’t in the mood for your scheduled activity. Sometimes, just letting them explore a quiet outdoor space is all they need.

 

 

Keep the Festive Spirit Alive

Travelling during the holidays is all about creating special memories, and even the smallest touches can make your campervan adventure feel magical.

• Storytime traditions: Read classic holiday books like The Night Before Christmas before bedtime.
• Holiday crafts: Bring along simple craft supplies for your toddler to make paper snowflakes or decorate pinecones you find along the way.
• Hot cocoa moments: Pack a thermos and hot chocolate mix for cosy drinks by the campfire or at a scenic rest stop.
• Photo opportunities: Capture candid moments of your family exploring, decorating, or just sharing laughs—it’s these little memories that will last a lifetime.

Prepare for the Unexpected

No matter how well you plan, things can go off course when travelling with a toddler. The key is to stay flexible and embrace the chaos.

• First-aid kit: Make sure it’s stocked with toddler essentials like fever reducers, band-aids, and any medications your child might need.
• Rainy day backup: Have a few indoor activities ready in case of bad weather, like sticker books, colouring pages, or a toddler-friendly holiday movie you can play on the motorhome’s TV.
• Toddler meltdowns: Pack extra patience and remember that tantrums are normal! A quick cuddle or a change of scenery can usually help.

 

FAQs

Q: Is it safe to travel long distances in a campervan with a toddler?
Absolutely, as long as you plan breaks every couple of hours, secure your toddler in a legal toddler/booster seat, and create a cosy, familiar space for them inside the van you’ll have no problems on the road.

Q: How do I keep my toddler entertained during the drive?
Mix it up with toys, books, and music. Snacks are a lifesaver, and don’t forget about interactive games like “I Spy” or pointing out festive decorations along the way.

Q: What are some easy meals to prepare in a campervan?
Stick to simple, one-pot meals like pasta, soups, or quesadillas. For your toddler, pack ready-to-eat options like fruit, cheese, crackers, and pouches.

 

You’re Ready For A Family Road Trip!

A festive campervan road trip with a toddler is a magical way to spend the holidays, combining the joy of exploration with the comfort of family traditions. With a little preparation and a lot of flexibility, you can create a holiday adventure your family will cherish for years to come. So, deck out your campervan, grab some cocoa, and get ready to make memories on the road!

Happy holidays and safe travels! 🎄✨

Ready to kick off your holiday? Visit our website to see what campervans are still available at our branches, or call our reservation team on 1300 664 485 and we’ll help you book your campervan road trip today!