Thanksgiving + camper vans = Vansgiving, or #Vansgiving if you feel compelled to share your experience on social media. We’re guessing you will, because Thanksgiving in a camper van is dreamy.
In anticipation of the big meal, I’m always anxious to go on a hike or otherwise get some exercise to justify that second piece of pumpkin pie. This year why not host Thanksgiving in a camper van at your favorite campsite? If you did, that sure would make hiking after the meal pretty darn easy.
We celebrated Vansgiving on a friend’s farm. That’s always a great option if you have friends with land. Thanks Sam and Sue! But there are plenty of lovely campgrounds open in November. Check out our list of favorite fall options here and here.
Below we share ten steps for creating the perfect Thanksgiving in a camper van. It is so so so so easy.
STEP 1: RENT GOCAMP CAMPER VANS
It’s not Vansgiving unless there are camper vans involved. If you don’t already have your own, browse through the many camper vans available to rent on GoCamp. From old-school Volkswagen Vanagons and Eurovans to newer Mercedes-Benz Sprinters, Ford Transits, Dodge Ram ProMasters, Storyteller Overland MODE 4×4 adventure vans, specialty conversion vans, and many more makes, models, and styles, you have lots of great choices for your Vansgiving.
STEP 2: SET UP A BAR
Put out wine, beer and other beverages in one of your rented camper vans. In one of the Eurovans we used the cover of the sink and stove to create a horizontal surface. Worked like a charm. Don’t forget the non-alcoholic options as well.
STEP 3: ENCOURAGE SELF-SERVE
All GoCamp vans have plenty of cups and wine glasses, so you don’t need to worry about having enough. We swiveled the two front seats to create a fun party space inside the Eurovan. As is the case at home with people congregating in the kitchen, people will want to congregate inside the vans so cozy them up.
STEP 4: PUT OUT APPETIZERS
GoCamp vans all have camp tables, camp chairs and table cloths so you can set up tables of food outside the vans. Bring a few special appetizer items from your own pantry, stop for fancy cheeses on the way out of town, and voila, appetizers.
STEP 5: INVITE FRIENDS
Reserve several vans or tag along with your friends that own vans. They’ve been doing #Vansgiving without you for years. Also, many GoCamp vans allow four-legged friends so you can bring the whole family.
