Imagine you and your friends are driving with the windows down, singing along to your favourite songs, and the beautiful UK countryside stretches out before you. A fresh breeze flows in, bringing the excitement of adventure and maybe a hint of sea air, depending on your destination. Forget about strict schedules or airport stress - this is about you, your friends, and the open road, ready to take you wherever you want.
That’s why we decided to swap our usual girls’ trip for something different: a campervan adventure. It’s like glamping, but it has wheels - stylish, cosy, and truly memorable.
If you want a road trip filled with amazing views, meaningful chats by the campfire, and endless Instagram-worthy moments, you’re in the right place. Here’s how we planned our UK campervan adventure, from choosing the right van to finding the best scenic routes and campsites.
Practical Steps to Plan a Campervan Road Trip
Here are some practical steps that you can take to plan a campervan road trip:
Step 1: Choosing the Right Campervan
Before you hit the road, make sure you have the right vehicle. Your campervan is more than just a way to get around; it serves as your hotel, dressing room, and lounge.
Size & Features Matter
- Compact & Cosy: This vehicle is perfect for two to three people. It is easy to drive and budget-friendly.
- Mid-Size Comfort: It offers a good mix of space and manoeuvrability.
- Luxury on Wheels: It has built-in showers, comfortable beds, and mini kitchens, making it ideal for longer trips.
Essentials for a Chic Campervan Stay
- Use cosy blankets and cushions to make the van feel like home.
- Bring battery-powered fairy lights for relaxing evenings.
- Pack a portable speaker for fun dance parties.
- Don’t forget travel-sized beauty items for a road trip glow.
Need help finding the perfect campervan? Find My Leisure Vehicle makes it easy to discover stylish, well-equipped options for your next adventure.
Step 2: Mapping Out the Ultimate Road Trip Route
Let’s get to the fun part - choosing our destination! We wanted a blend of adventure, relaxation, and photo-worthy spots. After some consideration, we settled on these great routes in the UK:
Top UK Road Trip Destinations for a Girls’ Getaway
- Cornwall’s Coastline: Cornwall has the longest coastline in the UK, over 433 miles long. It has more than 300 beaches, known for their varied landscapes and award-winning quality. This place has a great mix of beach vibes, cute cafes, and beautiful cliff walks. It’s ideal for watching the sunset in St. Ives or surfing at Fistral Beach.
- The Lake District: You'll love this spot if you enjoy stunning views and cosy countryside pubs. For a bit of luxury, there are many spa hotels nearby.
- The Scottish Highlands: The scenery is wild, rugged, and breathtaking. Don't miss Loch Ness, Glen Coe, and some famous whisky distilleries in Scotland.
- Cotswolds Escape: You'll find charming villages, unique shops, and numerous places for afternoon tea. This is perfect if you want a relaxing, stylish experience.
Pro Tip: Use navigation applications like Google Maps, Waze, and Campercontact to locate the top campsites and overnight parking places!
Step 3: Finding the Best Campsites for a Stylish Stay
A great campervan journey is more than just driving; it's about stopping to unwind in interesting places. Whether you prefer the luxury of glamping or the excitement of camping in the wild, here are some locations to consider for your evening camp:
- Treen Farm Campsite, Cornwall: Enjoy breathtaking sea views and be close to Porthcurno Beach.
- Park Cliffe, Lake District: Wake up encircled by mountains and lakes, breathing in fresh air and nature.
- Glamping at Love2Stay, Shropshire: Relax with spa facilities, yoga sessions, and a touch of luxury.
Tip: Make your van look better with some cute decor inspired by Pinterest. An outdoor rug, lanterns, and comfortable seating can change the space!
Step 4: Creating the Perfect Road Trip Playlist & Vibes
No road trip is truly complete without a fantastic soundtrack. We put together a mix of feel-good classics, guilty pleasures, and laid-back indie tunes - the ultimate playlist for a girls' getaway.
Spotify Road Trip Playlists We Loved:
- "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" – 80s and 90s anthems.
- "Coastal Cruisin’" – Laid-back acoustic and indie tracks.
- "Sing-Along Classics" – The ones you have to belt out.
Bonus: Pack a lively podcast for engaging discussions and good chuckles - our top picks are Girls Gotta Eat and The High Low. Spotify Road Trip Playlists – Because the right music makes all the difference.
Step 5: Packing Tips for a Stylish & Stress-Free Adventure
Here are some packing tips for a stylish, stress-free adventure:
Tip 1: Wardrobe Must-Haves
- Comfortable loungewear for relaxing mornings.
- Layer outfits because the UK weather is unpredictable!
- An Instagram-worthy outfit for scenic photos.
Tip 2: Beauty on the Go
- Dry shampoo is great for road trips.
- Use a hydrating mist to keep your skin fresh.
- Bring a mini manicure kit to fix chipped nails.
Tip 3: Tech & Travel Must-Haves
- Power banks help keep your phone charged when you're on the go.
- A good camera lets you capture spontaneous moments.
- Portable Wi-Fi keeps you connected to share pictures of your van's life.
Step 6: Making the Most of Every Moment
A campervan adventure is more than just the spots you visit; it's about the memories you create on the journey.
- Start Traditions: Start your day with coffee in matching mugs. Journal about your adventures or enjoy wine and chat sessions at night.
- Capture the Fun: Capture your memories with Polaroid pictures, vlogs, and scrapbooks.
- Find Balance: Plan activities and leave space for spontaneous fun, like a beach picnic or an unexpected stop at a hidden gem.
Conclusion
Looking back on our campervan adventure, it exceeded our expectations. We avoided the stress of rushing to airports and paying high hotel prices. Instead, we enjoyed a trip filled with freedom, joy, and long drives. This journey brought us closer as friends, sparked our sense of adventure, and gave us lasting memories.
If you dream of a fun and stylish getaway with friends, let this inspire you to start planning. The UK has some of the best road trip routes in the world. So, gather your friends, rent a campervan, and embark on an unforgettable journey.
Wishing you fantastic road trip experiences!
