Essential Tips for Traveling in a Campervan

Traveling in a campervan offers freedom and adventure, but planning and preparation are crucial to make the journey safe, comfortable, and economical. Here's a comprehensive guide to essential tips for campervan travel. These are tips that I learned after taking my campervans on the road for months at a time.

7 Places You Can Stay for Free

Finding free overnight parking is a great way to save money while traveling. Here are some popular options:

  1. Public Lands:

    • Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Areas: Many BLM-managed lands allow free camping for up to 14 days. These are often near popular national parks or remote scenic areas, but plan ahead!

    • National Forests: Dispersed camping is allowed in many national forests at no cost. Check local ranger stations for specific rules.

  2. Mini-Mall, Target, and Walmart Parking Lots:
    Many large parking lots allow overnight parking for free. This includes Walmart, grocery stores, Target, and other mini-mall. You’re expected to check with store management at Walmarts. Costco, Whole Foods, and other high end stores usually have security guards and don’t allow any overnight parking.

  3. Truck Stops:
    Locations like Love’s or Pilot Flying J welcome travelers to park overnight. These often include access to restrooms and basic facilities.

  4. Rest Areas:
    Several states permit overnight parking in designated rest areas. However, time limits and safety regulations vary. I’d only recommend this as a last resort!

  5. Casinos:
    Casinos, especially in smaller towns, often allow free RV parking. Some even provide hookups as a bonus to attract visitors. Campervans have the added bonus of fitting into a regular parking spot, so you can park in an outside parking lot overnight without any trouble.

  6. Residential:

    If all else fails, you can always boondock in a residential area. I’ve found places in beach cities up and down the California coast, Las Vegas, even Beverly Hills!

flowers in death valley

5 Tips for Finding Wi-Fi on the Road

Staying connected while traveling can be challenging. Here’s what I’ve learned while on the road for finding reliable Wi-Fi:

  1. Campgrounds and RV Parks (ie. KOA):
    Many paid campgrounds offer free Wi-Fi, though the quality can vary.

  2. Coffee Shops and Fast Food Chains:
    Starbucks, McDonald's, and similar establishments often provide free, reliable Wi-Fi. Make sure you can turn around in their parking lot! (I’ve made that mistake before)

  3. Libraries:
    Public libraries are a hidden gem for free internet access and quiet working spaces. Bonus: Libraries in different states can offer discounts for park passes. For instance, in California, you can check out a State Park Pass that allows for free entry and parking at 100+ California State Parks!

  4. Mobile Hotspots:
    Invest in a mobile hotspot device with a data plan, or use your smartphone’s tethering capabilities. In 2025, the best option is Starlinks ROAM option.

  5. Apps for Wi-Fi Locations:
    Apps like WiFi Map and Instabridge help locate free Wi-Fi networks in your area.

Safe Driving Tips

Driving a campervan requires special attention, especially for first-time users. Keep these safety tips in mind:

  1. Know Your Vehicle Dimensions:
    Be aware of the height, length, and width of your campervan to avoid accidents in tunnels, parking garages, or tight spaces. A longer van means you’ll have to take wider turns and keep far away from parking garages.

  2. Take It Slow:
    Campervans are heavier and slower to stop than regular cars. Maintain safe following distances and reduce speed in bad weather.

  3. Plan Fuel Stops:
    Map out gas stations along your route, especially in remote areas where options may be limited. Most Sprinter or Ram Promaster campervans get about 15mpg on a flat highway.

  4. Use GPS Wisely:
    Use RV-specific GPS or apps like RV Trip Wizard to avoid routes unsuitable for larger vehicles. You don’t want to get stuck at a low bridge or a road that your campervan won’t be able to get past!

  5. Check the Weather:
    Strong winds, heavy rain, and icy roads can make campervan driving dangerous. Delay travel if conditions are severe.

desert tabletop rock

Where to Get Free Drinking Water and Electrical Hookups

Many campervans have small-ish water tanks or no solar, making access to water and electricity essential for campervan travelers. Here's where to find them for free:

  1. Water Stations:

    • Public Parks: Many city parks have water fountains or spigots for filling water bottles or tanks.

    • Rest Stops: Several highway rest areas have potable water available.

  2. Campgrounds:
    Even if you don't stay overnight, most campgrounds allow water refills for no cost. At most state parks, you can also dump your waste tank.

  3. Gas Stations:
    Larger truck stops often have potable water for free or minimal cost.

  4. Community Centers:
    Some town centers or visitor bureaus offer water refills as part of their services.

  5. Electrical Hookups:

    • Rest Stops with RV Facilities: A few rest stops, especially in tourist-heavy states, include free or low-cost electrical hookups.

    • Casinos and Some Walmart Lots: A handful of these locations offer electrical connections for overnight guests.

Traveling in a campervan is an excellent way to explore new places while keeping costs low. By planning ahead for free stays, internet access, and essential utilities, you can maximize your comfort and safety. Whether you’re staying in a national forest, finding Wi-Fi at a coffee shop, or refilling water at a gas station, every aspect of your trip can be optimized with a little research.
Click the link below to rent a campervan in Las Vegas today, then start your trip!