Road trip by van, how to organize your adventure ?

A van road trip : What is it?

Increasingly popular among outdoor enthusiasts and itinerant travelers, this mode of transport offers the perfect balance between comfort and immersion in nature. With a camper van, every day becomes a new adventure : a night by a lake, waking up facing the mountains, an impromptu stop in a picturesque village...

Traveling by van also means opting for a flexible and customizable experience. Whether for a weekend by the sea, a mountain crossing, or a multi-week journey across France, everything is possible. Thanks to the rental of camper vans, like those offered by AVIS explore, everyone can find the ideal vehicle to enjoy their personalized experience.

The growing enthusiasm for van road trips is also due to the diversity of possible itineraries. From the Atlantic coast to the winding roads of the Alps, passing through the Loire castles and the wild landscapes of Brittany, France is full of perfect destinations for this type of travel.

With a converted van, the road becomes a playground where every traveler can shape their journey as they wish, in total freedom.

Why choose a van road trip ?

A van road trip is increasingly appealing to travelers looking for escape and adventure. This mode of travel offers unmatched flexibility, allowing you to explore new regions while enjoying the comfort of a converted vehicle. Here are the main advantages of this unique experience.

Total Autonomy and Freedom

Traveling by van allows you to break free from accommodation constraints and fixed schedules imposed by hotels or vacation rentals. You are in control of your itinerary and can decide where and when to stop, whether to admire a sunset on the beach, spend a night in the heart of the mountains, or explore picturesque villages.

Close connection with nature

A van road trip offers privileged access to the most beautiful landscapes. Unlike traditional stays, you can spend the night in the heart of nature by a lake, at the foot of a cliff, or in a forest. With designated parking areas and campgrounds specially designed for converted vans, it is easy to enjoy an immersive stay while respecting the environment.

A budget-friendly and optimized trip

Budget is often a key factor when planning a trip. Choosing a converted van allows you to combine multiple expenses : accommodation, transport, and meals. Cooking on board reduces food costs and avoids expensive hotels. Additionally, some free parking areas help keep expenses even lower.

A trip at your own pace

Far from the stress of fixed schedules and rigid itineraries, a van road trip allows you to adapt your journey to your desires. Do you particularly like a destination ? Extend your stay without constraints. A site disappoints you ? Hit the road to another stop without wasting time. This flexibility is one of the greatest assets of van travel.

A unique and friendly experience

Whether traveling alone, as a couple, with family, or with friends, van travel creates unique moments. Evenings around a campfire, unpredict meals in the wild, and spontaneous discoveries enhance the joy of traveling and create unforgettable memories.

In short, choosing a van road trip is about opting for an authentic experience that is both comfortable and immersive. With AVIS explore, you benefit from a wide selection of converted vehicles, adapted to all travel preferences.

How to organize your van road trip ?

A van road trip requires some preparation to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Between choosing the vehicle, planning the itinerary, and managing onboard resources, here are the essential steps to organizing your trip.

Choosing your camper van with AVIS explore

The choice of vehicle is crucial to ensuring comfort and practicality throughout the trip. AVIS explore offers several types of converted vans tailored to different travelers’ needs :

• Adventure Combi-Van : Ideal for solo or duo getaways, this model combines maneuverability and practicality. Perfect for exploring small roads and accessing the most remote spots.
• 4-Seater Adventure Van – Pop-Up Roof : Offering more living space and an extra bed, this type of van is suitable for families or groups of friends seeking a balance between compactness and comfort.
• 2-Seater Adventure Van – Compact :More spacious, it is recommended for long stays or family trips. With a kitchen, storage, and sometimes an integrated bathroom, it offers comfort close to that of a motorhome.

Planning your van trip itinerary

One of the great advantages of a van road trip is flexibility. However, some prior planning helps avoid surprises and optimize your route :

• Define Key Stops : Identify must-visit places and daily travel distances.
• Plan Alternatives : Keep some flexibility to adjust to desires and unforeseen events.
• Use Appropriate Tools : Apps like Google Maps, Park4Night, or Vanlife help locate parking areas, campgrounds, and nearby points of interest.
• Consider the Weather : Adapt your route based on weather conditions to avoid difficult roads or maximize sunshine.

Essentials for a successful van trip

Effectively managing your resources is the cornerstone of a successful and autonomous van life experience. Whether you’re embarking on a weekend getaway or a long-term road trip, careful planning and resource allocation will ensure comfort, sustainability, and self-sufficiency.

From energy and water conservation to food storage and emergency preparedness, every aspect of your journey requires thoughtful organization. To help you navigate the challenges of life on the road, we’ve compiled a comprehensive checklist covering essential supplies, smart ressource management strategies, and practical tips to optimize your travel experience.

Essential equipment :

• Auxiliary battery for electricity
• Drinking water supply
• Gas for cooking
• Heating system for cold nights

Overnight options :

• Campgrounds equipped for vans and motorhomes
• Dedicated parking areas
• Wild camping (respecting local regulations)

Hygiene and comfort on board :

• Integrated bathroom or service stations
• Chemical or dry toilets
• Outdoor showers or access to campsite facilities

Well-prepared, a van road trip becomes an immersive and unforgettable experience, where each day brings its share of discoveries and freedom.

Our suggested itineraries for a camper van road trip

A van road trip allows you to explore diverse landscapes, from the sea to the mountains, passing through picturesque villages and preserved natural sites. Here are some must-see itineraries for a successful adventure.

Nature & adventure road trip :

• Brittany and Its Wild Coasts : From Pointe du Raz to the Crozon Peninsula, Brittany offers spectacular views between steep cliffs and sandy beaches. Numerous campgrounds and van-friendly areas provide comfortable stops along the way.

• The Loire valley and its Castles : Combining history and nature, this route takes you along the famous Loire castles, such as Chambord, Chenonceau, or Azay-le-Rideau. Ideal for culture and heritage lovers.

• The Alps and its high-altitude lakes : Driving through the Alpine roads in a van offers breathtaking panoramas: Lake Annecy, Col de l’Iseran, the Route des Grandes Alpes… Perfect for hiking and thrill-seekers.

Coastal & beach road trip

• The Atlantic Coast and the Basque country : From the Dune of Pilat to Biarritz, this itinerary combines wild beaches, surfing, and local gastronomy.

• The Mediterranean and Provence : Passing through the Calanques of Cassis, Camargue, and the French Riviera, this road trip allows you to enjoy the sun and turquoise waters of the Mediterranean.

With a camper van, each itinerary can be adjusted to suit your preferences, offering total freedom to explore France from a new perspective.

With AVIS explore, you get recent and well-equipped vans, a network of agencies for easy departures, and personalized advice to ensure a smooth and unforgettable van road trip !

I RENT MY VAN !

FAQ

What type of van should I choose for a road trip ?

It depends on the number of passengers and the level of comfort you’re looking for. AVIS explore offers :

• Adventure Combi-vans for solo travelers or couples
• 4-seater Adventure Vans with a pop-up roof to optimize space
• 2-seater Compact Adventure Vans for families or longer trips

Where can you park to sleep in a camper van ?

Here are some solutions for your park situation during your road trip :

• Motorhome areas and designated campsites
• Van-specific parking areas (via apps like Park4Night)
• Some public parking lots (check local regulations)
• Wild camping is tolerated in certain regions but subject to strict rules.

How to manage water and electricity in a camper van ?

Vans have water tanks that can be refilled at campsites or specific service stations. Electricity is supplied by an auxiliary battery, which can be recharged while driving or via an external power source at a campsite.

What equipment is included in a van rental with AVIS explore ?

All vans come with a kitchenette, storage space, comfortable sleeping arrangements, and independent lighting. Depending on the model, some options like a bathroom/toilet or a pop-up roof are available. Additional equipment (GPS, comfort kit, bike rack) can be added to the booking.

Can I travel abroad with a rental van ?

Yes, AVIS explore allows van travel in most European countries. It is recommended to check the rental conditions and insurance coverage before departure.