family day

How to Celebrate Family Day in a Camper Van Rental

Family Day is the perfect occasion to hit pause on life’s daily hustle and focus on the people who matter most. What better way to create cherished memories than by exploring the open road in a cozy camper van?

This year, skip the same-old plans and try something unforgettable—celebrating Family Day with a camper van adventure! 

This post will help you through everything you need to know, from picking the right van to creating incredible family-friendly experiences. 

Why a Camper Van? 

Celebrating Family Day in a camper van offers an experience that stands apart from traditional at-home festivities. Or, if you’re planning to travel, here’s why it’s worth considering: 

  • Flexibility: Travel at your own pace. A camper van eliminates rigid schedules, letting your family explore the great outdoors as the day unfolds.

  • Quality Bonding Time: With everyone sharing the same small, cozy space, conversations flow naturally, games get played, and laughs are plentiful.

  • Lifelong Memories: Road trips leave a lasting impression and camper vans facilitate unique experiences. Your shared adventures will become part of your family’s story. 

Whether it’s driving to a serene national park, sharing ghost stories around a campfire, or simply watching the sunset together, a camper van trip makes Family Day feel extra magical.

Family of four inside a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter showing front and rear seats

Choosing the Perfect Camper Van 

Before you can take off on your Family Day road trip, you’ll need the right camper van. Thankfully, GoCamp has a wide variety of vans that are perfect for family travel. Here’s what to keep in mind when selecting the perfect rental for your family.  

  1. Capacity: Make sure the camper van has enough sleeping areas and seats for everyone in your family. Look for one with bunk beds or pop-top sleeping options for extra comfort.

  2. Kitchenette: Built-in options for cooking and storing food can save time and money. Look for a van equipped with a stove, fridge, and sink.

  3. Child-Friendly Features: Check for amenities like secure seat belts, child locks, or easy-to-clean interiors if you’re traveling with young kids.

  4. Storage: Opt for a camper van with ample storage to hold your luggage, toys, and camping gear.

  5. Fuel Efficiency: For long road trips, a fuel-efficient van will help keep costs manageable without sacrificing adventure. 

Not sure where to start? Check out a tried-and-true van like a Winnebago Solis, which has seating and sleeping room for four. Younger kids will enjoy the pop-top sleeping bed, while you enjoy a full-size bed in the van’s cabin. 

You can find Winnebago Solis’s in many locations, so check out GoCamp to find options near you.

family day

8 Family-Friendly Experiences for Family Day 

Now that you’ve got the basics, it’s time to explore what you can do! Here are our top recommendations for activities your family will love. 

  1. Camping in a National Park or by the Beach 

Get away from the noise of the city and immerse yourselves in nature. Set up camp in a national park or a beachside camping ground. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves or the sight of a sunrise amidst towering trees—it’s a memory the entire family will treasure. 

For more tips on national parl camping, check out our pesonalized travel guides.

  1. Hiking Trails for All Ages 

Find a scenic hiking trail that’s manageable for all family members. Whether it’s a forest path, a meadow walk, or a short trek to a waterfall, hiking allows everyone to stretch their legs and connect with the natural world. 

Pack a lightweight backpack with water bottles, snacks, and a small first-aid kit to stay prepared. 

  1. Organize Outdoor Games and Activities 

Bring along a soccer ball, frisbee, or even a kite to create fun and competitive moments with your family. Open spaces in campsites or parks are ideal terrains for family games that both kids and adults can enjoy. 

Keep it lighthearted and inclusive. Even the youngest members should feel like they’re part of the action! 

  1. Campfire Storytelling and S’mores 

Nothing says “Family Day” like gathering around a warm campfire. Break out the marshmallows, graham crackers, and chocolate for s’mores, then take turns telling stories. From shared memories to imaginative tales, this timeless activity will bring your family closer together. 

Pro Tip: Some GoCamp camper vans offer a portable fire pit as an add-on. Look for this option to make s’mores anywhere!

  1. Visit Family-Friendly Attractions 

Plan a stop at a local landmark, nature reserve, or even a theme park en route. Research nearby attractions that cater to families to add a unique twist to your adventure. 

Call ahead or look up schedules to ensure operating hours align with your travel plans. 

  1. Scenic Drives with Picnic Stops 

Turn the travel itself into part of the adventure with scenic drives along coastal roads or mountain passes. Pack a picnic basket with your family’s favorite snacks and stop at picturesque spots for lunch and breathtaking views. 

The benefit of camper van travel is that you can park and camp right after your scenic picnic.

  1. Stargazing Together 

End the day on a magical note by laying out a blanket and stargazing with your loved ones. Use a stargazing app to identify constellations and planets, or simply take in the wonder of a clear night sky. 

Bring along binoculars for better views of the stars. Have you been to Great Basin National Park? This park is know for stargazing and is one you won’t regret visiting with the family.

  1. Capture Your Family Day Memories 

Don’t forget to pack a camera or use your smartphone to document the day. Take candid photos of your experiences and turn the best ones into a photo album to relive the memories. 

Pro Tip: Apple iPhones often create videos of your trips automatically! Check the Memories section of your Photos app to check it out.

Preparing for the Big Day 

Preparation is key for a successful Family Day trip. The best thing about renting from GoCamp, is that all camper vans come included with all the camping essentials you would need. 

Included camping supplies:

  • Blankets, pillows, and towels.
  • Cooking supplies like pots, utensils, and portable stoves. 
  • Flashlights/camp lights. 
  • Camp table with camp chairs.
  • Tableware and cooking essentials like salt and pepper. 

Safety Tips:

  • Ensure the camper van is well-maintained and fuelled before departure. 
  • Keep a first-aid kit and emergency contact numbers on hand. 
  • Double-check campsite regulations and adhere to them closely. 

Real-Life Family Adventures 

Still on the fence? Meet Ryan, who turned their GoCamp rental into an unforgettable two weeks with their camper van adventure. 

“My family and I rented Justin’s Winnebago Solis in August for two weeks, and we loved every moment. Timberline has everything you need for a great camping trip, including camping chairs. We also really appreciated the included SatNav system so we could easily find our way to the next campsite. Highly recommended!”

Stories like these prove that camper van trips are more than just excursions—they’re the beginning of traditions that your family will cherish. 

Family of four sits by a fire in an Oregon campground. Roadtrip Oregon. Eurovan Camper in the background.

Find your Fun this Family Day 

Family Day only comes around once a year. Why not make it extraordinary? By renting a camper van and heading out on the open road, you’ll give your family the gift of adventure and connection. 

Whether you’re roasting marshmallows, sailing through scenic drives, or sharing laughs over board games, the memories made will last a lifetime. Start planning today and take the first step toward an experience that your family will treasure forever. 

For more travel guides and travel tips, check out our other blog posts. The GoCamp Customer Experience Team is here to answer your questions too!