Campervan Tips For Beginners: Here’s What You Need to Know (and How Imoova Can Help)

Imoova.com is a relocation booking service that connects travellers with relocation campervans, cars and RVs. Rental companies often need vehicles moved from one city to another, and they offer these trips to drivers for a fraction of the normal rental cost, from $1 a day. It's a budget-savvy way to get your campervan fix while keeping costs low.

If you've never stayed in a campervan before, there are a few things you'll want to know before setting off. Here’s a quick beginner’s guide to staying comfortable, safe, and clean on the road. However, don't stress as when you pick up your vehicle the rental company will typically give you a walkthrough, especially if it's your first time driving one.

Every campervan is a little different. Before you hit the road:

• Check where everything is stored.

• Locate the gas, fresh water, and waste water systems.

• Understand how the lights, stove, fridge, and battery systems work (especially if running on solar or when plugged in).

Campervans typically have two types of waste tanks:

• Grey Water Tank: This holds used water from the sink and shower.

• Black Water Tank (if there's a toilet): This holds sewage and requires more careful disposal.

Tips for emptying waste water:

• Always use a designated dump point, they’re common at campgrounds and highway rest areas (look for a blue and white sign with a dump hose icon).

• Wear gloves... it’s not glamorous, but it's hygienic.

• Open the grey water valve after the black water to help flush out any lingering waste.

• Rinse the hose before storing it again.

• Never dump waste into storm drains or on the ground, it’s illegal and environmentally harmful.

If you’re on an Imoova relocation, your schedule might be a bit tighter. Research campgrounds, free camps, or rest stops ahead of time, especially in remote areas. In peak season many campsites will require bookings, especially if you need a powered site.

Useful apps like CamperMate, WikiCamps, or Park4Night help you find legit spots to park overnight, including whether they have water, power, toilets, or dump points.

Space is limited, so pack what you’ll really need:

• Microfiber towels (fast drying)

• Headlamp or lantern for night use

• Portable phone charger

• Reusable containers for food if you'll be cooking in the van

• Bin bags for collecting rubbish during the day

• Pack layers, it can get cold at night

Unless you’re plugged into mains power at a campsite, your camper will run on batteries. Be mindful of:

• Charging electronics only when needed

• Turning off lights when not in use

• Taking shorter showers to conserve water (or use showers at campsites)

• Refilling fresh water tanks when you can, especially in outback or rural areas

Campervans are heavier and often taller than standard cars:

• Take corners wide and slow.

• Be cautious of overhead clearance (especially in parking garages or under low-hanging trees).

• Secure everything inside before driving to prevent movement or breakage.

Leave every campsite cleaner than you found it. Dispose of waste properly, avoid single-use plastics, and stay on marked tracks and roads. Campervanning gives you access to nature and protecting it is part of the deal.

Whether you're testing the campervan lifestyle or looking for a budget-friendly way to explore Australia, New Zealand, the US, Canada or Europe, Imoova offers an incredible opportunity. It’s affordable, flexible, and perfect for budget travellers with an adventurous spirit.

Just remember: a little prep goes a long way. Learn your van, plan your route, and take care of the environment and your first campervan journey will be the start of many more.