Best Vancouver Campervan Rentals (+expert tips!)

Nestled between the majestic Rocky Mountains and the beautiful Pacific Ocean, Vancouver is the perfect place to rent a campervan for an adventurous road trip in western Canada. We’ve rounded up the best Vancouver campervan rentals to help you choose the perfect ride.

If you’re looking into Vancouver campervan rentals for your next trip, I want to be the first one to give you a big ol’ high five and tell you wholeheartedly that you are about to embark on the adventure of a lifetime!

Vancouver is the perfect jumping-off point to discover the jaw-dropping landscapes and exhilarating outdoor activities of Canada’s west coast.

We’ve made two trips to Vancouver, the second of which was a road trip in our own campervan (that we built all by ourselves!). We had the best time experiencing Western Canada from our own home on four wheels, and I think you will have an absolute blast, too!

But hold up! Don’t go and book any campervan or motorhome you can find just yet. If this is your first time on our website (welcome!), there’s something you should know about us…

We are absolutely obsessed with traveling by campervan. We have traveled all over the world in campervans, and we have some expert advice that’ll be essential as you begin planning your trip. 

In this article, we’ll go over exactly how to choose the best campervan rental in Vancouver for your budget and travel style (what was best for us might not be best for you!). 

We’re also sharing some tips that have come in really handy over the years, essential items to pack, and mistakes we’ve made, all so that you have the very best experience. 

In the end, we want you to fall in love with vanlife too!

Guide to renting a campervan in Vancouver

Here’s what we cover in this guide. Click on any of the links below to jump down to that section, or keep scrolling to get all the juicy details.

• Why trust us?
• Our experience
• Our top recommendation
• How to book a campervan rental in Vancouver
• Best Campervan Rentals in Vancouver
• Why rent a campervan or RV in Vancouver?
• When to make your booking
• Things to consider when choosing a vehicle
• How much does a campervan rental cost?
• Vancouver Campervan Rental FAQs
• Campervan insurance
• What to pack for a campervan trip
• Campervan with a baby
• Where to stay in your campervan

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Why you can trust us about campervan rentals

If you’re new to this blog (welcome!), we want to share a few reasons why you can trust us about all things campervan-related:

• We have personally built 3 campervans from scratch.
• We have traveled all over the US and to Canada in our own campervans.
• We have rented vans all over the world, in New Zealand, Iceland, Scotland, and Ireland.

Now do you understand why I said we’re obsessed!?

I mention all of this to let you know we have a lot of personal experience on this subject. We truly know what we’re talking about and in this article we’re sharing our expertise with you.

Also, we simply love connecting with others who are interested in RV and campervan adventures, so let’s be friends!

Our personal experience traveling by campervan in Vancouver 

We’ve been to Western Canada twice: first on our honeymoon in 2013, and again in 2023 for our 10-year anniversary (with our baby daughter – talk about full-circle!).

For our second trip, we traveled to Vancouver in a campervan we built ourselves. We drove from our home in Bend, Oregon and explored both British Columbia and Alberta in our self-built van.

We feel like a campervan or motorhome really gives you an added level of freedom that you just don’t have when you’re staying in a hotel or Airbnb, and we honestly think it’s the best way to explore Western Canada.

Since we’ve personally explored BC in a camper ourselves, you can trust that we know what we’re talking about in this article and are sharing tips that will truly help you plan your own trip. 

Our top campervan rental recommendation

If you just want to skip to our overall recommendation, here it is:

We’d recommend using Motorhome Republic to compare all rental options for your dates.

Spoiler Alert: Our top pick is Four Seasons.

We’d highly recommend you continue reading this guide as it is packed with insider tips on what to look for when choosing your vehicle, mistakes to avoid, and some other companies we’d recommend if you have a different budget or travel needs.

How to book a campervan rental in Vancouver

Best campervan rental companies in Vancouver

Okay, you’ve got Motorhome Republic pulled up for your dates and you can see all your options… But how do you even begin to choose between the companies?

Being that we’ve personally rented campervans all around the world (and have built 3 of our own!), we feel like we have a really good handle on what to look for. 

The companies below have been hand-picked by us, and we think each can be a good choice depending on what it is you’re looking for.

Campervan rental companies in Vancouver

• Four Seasons
• Fraserway
• Outdoorsy
• Cruise Canada
• Vancouver Westy Rentals
• Karma Campervans
• Wicked Campers

We’ve scoured reviews, compared specs, and analyzed prices to bring you a comprehensive list of the best campervan rentals in Vancouver so the decision is a little simpler for you.

We’re sharing what company we would choose to rent with, but we’ll also highlight some other companies in case you think a different one would be a better fit for your personal needs or budget.

For each company, we’re sharing pros, cons, and price points (budget or mid-range) to make this big decision a breeze.

Four Seasons

• Price range: mid-range
• Recommended for: all types of travelers
• Check availability here

Four Seasons is a division of Fraserway RV (the next recommendation on this list) with a focus on providing top-notch rentals and customer service at an affordable price. 

They offer 6 different vehicles ranging from a 2-berth van conversion to a 29-foot motorhome that sleeps 6.

Pros:

• You can stand up in any of their vehicles
• All vehicles are self-contained with indoor toilets and showers
• No additional fees for extra drivers, or for travel to the USA
• Their website is really well done and makes it super easy to compare the different models. They even have virtual tours and instructional videos so you know exactly what to expect for your rental

Cons: 

• Not much is included in the rental fee, and the extras and convenient kits are pricey.
• Mileage is charged separately
• The minimum booking is 5 nights (7 nights between October 1 and April 30), so this would not be a good choice for locals looking for a weekend getaway
• The drop-off window on your return date is tight—9 a.m. to 11 a.m.—and they charge $50 CAD per hour for late returns

Fraserway

• Price range: mid-range
• Recommended for: all types of travelers
• Check availability here

Fraserway has been around since 1969, so they’ve had a ton of experience providing local and international travelers with quality motorhomes.

As the parent company of Four Seasons, they have the same 6 vehicles to choose from, along with 3 truck campers.

Pros:

• You can stand up in any of their vehicles
• All vehicles have bathrooms with indoor toilets and showers (except the Truck Camper Scout, which has a portable toilet)
• If you’re used to driving a pickup truck, the truck campers could be a good choice to give you more space without having to manage a larger rig

Cons: 

• Not much is included in the rental fee, and the extras and convenient kits are pricey
• Mileage is charged separately
• Motorhomes might be intimidating for someone who isn’t used to driving a larger rig

Outdoorsy

This is essentially the “Airbnb of campervan rentals” and gives you the most options no matter your location, budget, or style. In addition to campervans, you’ll also find tow-behind trailers and RV rentals.

Cruise Canada

• Price range: mid-range
• Recommended for: families or groups who want to travel in comfort
• Check availability here

We saw lots of Cruise Canada motorhomes as we traveled around Western Canada. That comes as no surprise considering, along with their US counterpart, they make up the biggest motorhome rental company in North America with a whopping 4,500-vehicle fleet.

They’re also one of the oldest and most trusted brands around, with more than half a century of experience under their (fan)belt. Cut to me laughing at my own joke.  

Pros:

• All models have bathrooms with fresh water toilets and hot showers
• Motorhomes include microwaves to make cooking and snacking a breeze
• All vehicles are pet-friendly so you can bring the whole family
• Discounts available for early bookings

Cons: 

• No campervan options; the smallest model is a 4-person compact RV (small enough to fit the average parking space)
• Motorhomes might be intimidating for someone who isn’t used to driving a larger rig

Vancouver Westy Rentals

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• Price range: mid-range
• Recommended for: no-frills travelers
• Check availability here

Vancouver Westy is a locally-based company that specializes in Volkswagen Westfalia EuroVan Camper rentals. Their no-muss no-fuss vans are easy to drive and equipped with just about everything you need for your road trip.

We like their transparent pricing model, which promises no hidden fees.

If you find yourself overwhelmed trying to choose between the various builds offered by other companies, Vancouver Westy could be a good choice as they just have one standardized design.

Pros:

• Lots of gear and accessories included in the daily rate
• No hidden costs, including no vehicle preparation or cleaning fees (as long as you return your rental in good/clean condition)
• Popup roof provides an extra bed for groups of 3-4, or creates a higher ceiling for 2 travelers
• Discounts available for bookings of 14 days or more
• Built-in awning and camp furniture included for hanging out outside

Cons: 

• No toilets
• 10-night minimum booking during high season (5-night minimum in low season) might be longer than some people wish to rent
• Bedding and towels not included but available to rent for an additional fee

Karma Campervans

• Price range: mid-range to high-end
• Recommended for: couples or young families
• Check availability here

Located just 15 minutes from the Vancouver International Airport, Karma Campervans offer “modern-rustic” builds with the goal of bringing Western Canada access to comfortable, affordable campervan travel. 

Karma’s 2-berth and 4-berth vans feature minimalist interior decor that makes them feel like tiny Airbnbs. Their discrete branding on the exterior allows you to travel under the radar.

The thing we love most about this company is that they feature work from local artists in all their campervans. Oh, and the fact that each rental includes a bag of local coffee!

Pros:

• You can stand up in any of their vehicles
• Campervans are equipped for off-road, off-grid, and all-season adventures, so you have tons of flexibility
• No additional fees for extra drivers, or for travel to the USA
• One-way rentals may be available to Calgary, Edmonton, or the Okanagan for an additional fee
• Karma has partnered with brands all over Western Canada to give their customers discounts at local businesses like breweries, coffee shops, and tour companies

Cons: 

• Only 3 different models, all with the same interior layout
• The 4-seaters are a little on the pricier side compared to other companies
• Mini fridge, solar shower, and portable toilet are not included and cost extra

Wicked Campers

• Price range: budget
• Recommended for: solo travelers or couples on a budget
• Check availability here

These are not your grandmother’s campervans. Unless your grandma is a little wild, I guess.

Wicked Campers is a budget rental company with branches in Vancouver, Calgary, and LA. They offer 2 basic van conversions at low, low prices: the Wicked Van 2 and the Aventus 2.

Each van in the Wicked 2 category features a unique paint job, depicting everything from abstract designs to the Flintstones to Mr. T. Just keep in mind that attitude is their schtick – some of the designs (and the company’s branding) may not appeal to everyone. You can also request a “tame” design if that’s more your vibe.

The Aventus 2 is less out-there, with modest paint jobs and similar features. Both models have a tailgate kitchen equipped with a gas cooker, a cooler, and basic cookware, as well as a convertible 2-person bed.

Pros:

• Very low prices compared to other campervan rentals in Vancouver
• Their Price Beat Guarantee means that if you do find a comparable rental for a lower price, they will beat it by 10%
• If you’re a fan of bold art and brands with a bit of an edge, you’ll love exploring in a Wicked campervan

Cons: 

• Only 2 layouts to choose from
• You will not be able to stand up in these vans
• No toilets
• Bedlinen and pillows are not included
• Vehicles are not compatible with car seats, so this isn’t suitable if you’re traveling with small children (like us!)
• Depending on your personality, the loud and sometimes racy paint jobs may be a drawback

Still not finding what you’re looking for?

If none of these Vancouver campervan rentals work for you, another option is to pick up in Seattle. Seattle is less than a 3-hour drive from Vancouver and has lots of great rental companies to choose from, many of which allow you to travel freely across the border between Canada and the States.

And to sweeten the deal, we’ve already got you covered with a list of the best campervan rentals in Seattle, so you don’t even have to lift a finger! (Maybe one finger, just to click the link.)

Best Campervan Rentals in Seattle (+expert tips!)

Why rent a campervan or RV in Vancouver?

Still need a little convincing on the whole renting a campervan thing?

We get it. If you’ve never experienced traveling in a campervan, the idea of it can be a little daunting. Don’t worry though — we literally have all the resources you need to make your trip a success. 

First, let’s chat about why renting a campervan in Vancouver is a good idea. Scratch that. An AMAZING idea.

a) You can save (lots of!) money.

Renting a campervan is like having a car, a hotel, and a kitchen all in one place. 

Sure, the total cost per day isn’t cheap, but consider what it would cost to book a hotel room, rent a car, and eat out for every meal.

Most likely, a campervan will save you quite a bit of money.

b) You have ultimate freedom.

With a campervan, you have more flexibility than if you are staying in hotels. 

Do you like a place? Stay longer. 

Want to move on more quickly? Go for it. 

Got a local tip and you want to switch up your route completely? Consider it done!

While having campground reservations is recommended at least a day or two in advance (more on that later), you have the ability to have a less rigid route. 

c) It’s the adventure of a lifetime!

You’ll be telling your grandchildren about this adventure. 

’Nuff said. 

When to book your campervan rental in Vancouver 

If you’re planning to rent a campervan in Vancouver, listen up because this is crucial… 

Book your vehicle as early as possible. (This applies to all companies on this list.)

During popular travel seasons (like summer), the best models get snagged up fast! 

What types of campervans or RVs are available?

There is a huge variety to choose from. 

We’ve listed a handful of different types below, but if you’re still confused, hop down to the next section where we’ve broken down some of the major things to consider that’ll make your decision easier.

• Low-roof converted minivan: ideal for budget-minded adventurers
• Pop-up campervan: iconic old-school campervan style
• High-roof campervan: spacious while still easy to drive and park
• Mini-motorhome: home on wheels, perfect for a young family
• Large motorhome: pile in the kids, bikes, and a dog for an epic road trip

Things to think about when choosing a rental vehicle

Consider your answer to the following questions, as they will help you narrow down the best campervan rental for your personal needs.

How many people are you traveling with?

How comfortable are you driving a large rig? 

If you have an RV at home, perhaps driving a motorhome will be no big deal for you. However, if this is your first time in a larger vehicle, a campervan will be an easier transition for you. 

In short, our advice is to get the smallest possible size you think will work for you. 

What is your budget? 

The answer to this question might help you narrow down your rental choices, so it should be one of the first things you really dive into. 

In general, a campervan will be cheaper than an RV. And a low-roof vehicle will be cheaper than a high-roof vehicle.

Psst! If you’re curious about how much a campervan rental in Vancouver costs, we have a whole section about that. Jump there now.

Do you want a high-roof vehicle?

Think about this one for a minute: Do you need to be able to stand up inside your campervan? 

This will help make getting dressed, cooking, and just hanging out more comfortable. But it will mean you’ll likely be in a higher price bracket. 

If a low roof isn’t a deal-breaker, you can probably save quite a bit of money. 

Our personal opinion: We’ve had lots of experience in both low-roof and high-roof vehicles. When we were on a budget, it was a great way for us to save money, especially when we were traveling in places where we spent a lot of time outside. However, once we spent more time in a high-roof van (and now that we travel with a child!) I don’t know if we could go back to a low roof. It’s honestly just so much more comfortable being able to stand up!

How luxurious of a set-up do you need?

From super basic to extra bougie, there are all types of campervan and RV rentals. Determining your budget is the first step, as this will help you narrow down your options. 

From there, think about your personal preferences: Are you used to roughing it? Do you have a lot of camping experience? Or will splurging for a more plush vehicle be worth every penny to you? 

Keep your answers in mind as you’re sifting through your rental options.

How much does a Vancouver campervan rental cost?

Campervan rentals will vary drastically, depending on the following factors: 

• which company you choose
• type of vehicle
• time of year
• manual vs. automatic transmission
• how far in advance you make your reservation

To give you a general price range:

• 1 week in Vancouver in July (peak season) for a 2-berth campervan will cost about $2,200 CAD / $1,500 USD (priced in June 2024) 
• 1 week in Vancouver in October (shoulder season) for a 2-berth campervan will cost about $850 CAD / $650 USD (priced in June 2024) 

Other costs to consider

In addition to paying the nightly rental fee, you won’t want to forget these other things:

• Additional rental add ons (make sure you understand what is included with your company and what is an extra fee)
• Campground fees
• Insurance
• Gas
  • Insider Tip: Be sure you know whether your vehicle is gas or diesel so you fill up at the proper pump at the gas station.

Top places to visit on your Vancouver road trip

You could easily spend months getting lost and falling in love with the magic of Western Canada. But if you’re looking for a list of the very best places to put on your itinerary, we’ve got you covered. 

We chose these places specifically because they are ideal for visiting in a campervan or RV. Use this list to start planning your perfect Western Canada road trip route!

Good to know: You might notice that this list shies away from cities for the most part. That’s because cities are not as fun to navigate with a large vehicle and finding parking can be a pain. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t add them in, but we’d highly recommend focusing your route around the places below. (We say this from personal experience!)

1. Sea-to-Sky Highway to Whistler

The aptly named Sea-to-Sky Highway begins at sea level, heading north from Vancouver along the scenic shores of Howe Sound. It then climbs into the mountains to reach Whistler at an altitude of 670 meters (2,198 feet).

The drive itself is a highlight of this road trip, with stunning coastal and alpine scenery and plenty of memorable stops, such as Shannon Falls, Alice Lake Provincial Park, and the town of Squamish.

Whistler is, of course, best known for its legendary skiing and snowboarding, but its hiking and mountain biking make it a perfect destination for adventure-seekers year-round. And if zooming down a mountainside isn’t your thing, you can get your adrenaline pumping on the Cloudraker Skybridge, or the Peak 2 Peak Gondola connecting Whistler and Blackcomb.

There are tons of places to camp along this route, from privately owned to provincial parks, rustic and unserviced to full of amenities. Some campsites even offer ocean, mountain, or waterfall views.

2. Sunshine Coast

British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast is accessible via a short ferry ride from Vancouver. It then stretches 180 kilometers (112 miles) along the Salish Sea to Desolation Sound.

Explore hiking trails and scenic drives that hug the coastline or delve deep into the thickly forested mountains. Enjoy endless outdoor activities such as kayaking, cycling, SUP, or scuba diving. Discover hidden coves and beaches, or wander farmers markets and art galleries in cute seaside villages.

3. Banff & Jasper National Parks

Nestled in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, Banff and Jasper are easily two of the best national parks in Canada and a no-brainer for a road trip from Vancouver.

These two next-door neighbors share a north-south border, connected by the famous Icefields Parkway, known as one of the most scenic drives in the world. 

Both parks are jam-packed with spectacular alpine scenery, including shimmering lakes, towering Rocky Mountain peaks, dramatic canyons, and cascading waterfalls. The wild landscapes are home to such majestic fauna as bison, grizzly bears, moose, and elk – lots of elk. Elk everywhere.

Things to do in Banff:

• Explore the park’s incredible hiking trails.
• Soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs.
• Ride the gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain.
• Visit the iconic Lake Louise.
• Canoe through the jewel-bright turquoise waters of Lake Moraine.
• Indulge in high tea at the famous Fairmont Banff Springs hotel.
• Sip cocktails at one of the only distilleries in a national park in the entire world.

Fun Fact: We actually took our honeymoon to Banff and think it’s one of the most underrated honeymoon destinations!

Things to do in Jasper:

• Embark on some of the best hikes in Jasper.
• Rack up 5 breathtaking alpine lakes on the Valley of Five Lakes trail.
• See the glaciers of the famous Columbia Icefield.
• Hike the short Mount Edith Cavell trail to a glacial lagoon.
• Enjoy spectacular stargazing in the second-largest International Dark Sky Preserve in the world.
• Spot the iconic Spirit Island at Maligne Lake.

4. Vancouver Island

Hop on a ferry across the Strait of Georgia and experience the wildness of Vancouver Island.

From rugged coastlines and pristine beaches to lush rainforests and majestic mountains, the island offers a stunning backdrop for any adventure. 

In addition to its natural beauty, Vancouver Island boasts charming towns and vibrant cities like Victoria and Nanaimo, where you can enjoy local cuisine, craft breweries, and cultural attractions. Outdoor enthusiasts will find endless activities, such as hiking, kayaking, and whale watching. 

The island’s mild climate ensures a comfortable journey year-round, making it perfect for an unforgettable campervan experience.

5. The Okanagan Valley

Welcome to one of Canada’s premier wine regions! Known for its sunny climate and picturesque vineyards, the Okanagan Valley offers beautiful drives through rolling hills, along shimmering lakes, and past lush orchards.

And, of course, lots of wine tastings!

In between wineries and outdoor activities, towns like Kelowna and Penticton provide a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty, with excellent dining, shopping, and cultural attractions. 

6. Seattle

Less than 3 hours from Vancouver, Seattle is one city we would absolutely recommend adding to your campervan road trip. Being that we lived in Washington State for almost a year, we’ve visited the Emerald City many times, and I don’t think we’ll ever get tired of it.

Sandwiched between the ocean and the mountains, this is a metropolis that urbanites and nature-lovers alike can appreciate. Seattle is full of world-famous sights, quirky neighborhoods, and offbeat experiences, whether it’s sampling local delicacies on a food tour or floating past Mount Rainier in a hot air balloon.

We have an article about the best things to do in Seattle that lists everything from iconic tourist stops like the Space Needle and Pike Place to local secrets you won’t find in the guidebooks.

65 Crazy Fun Things To Do in Seattle

7. Olympic Peninsula

We’ve explored the Olympic Peninsula in our own self-built campervan and we think it is an ideal setting for a road trip.

Those infamous PNW clouds hang low over the temperate rainforests, rugged hiking trails, snow-capped mountains, and driftwood-strewn beaches, creating a mystical, moody vibe that I am kind of obsessed with…

And yes, there really are waterfalls everywhere!

From backcountry beauties like Shi Shi Beach to developed campgrounds with all the amenities, camping on the Olympic Peninsula is bound to be a highlight of your trip. Just be sure to make your reservations as far in advance as possible!

Traveling around the Pacific Northwest? Download our PNW Bucket List! It’s full of unique adventures, insider tips, and hidden gems you won’t find elsewhere. Plus, it’s completely FREE, so why not?!

19 Adventurous Things to do in Olympic National Park

Vancouver campervan rental FAQs

I get it — there is a lot to think about when it comes to renting a campervan in Vancouver. 

Let’s go over some common questions and see if we can get them answered!

Do I need an international driver’s license to rent a campervan in Vancouver?

Most likely, no.

Unless your home country’s license is in a non-Roman language (Japanese, Russian, etc.), you will not need an international driver’s license. 

Can I bring a child on a campervan trip?

Absolutely. We’ve brought our daughter on many campervan trips! 

In fact, we’d say it’s a great way to travel with a baby or older children.

You will need to select a vehicle that has enough seating for your family. And you will need to think about what you will do about a sleeping space. (We have tips on that!)

Which is better: Campervan or RV?

The answer to this is truly a matter of personal opinion, but here’s our opinion:

If you’re traveling solo or as a couple, we’d absolutely recommend a campervan to keep the size to a minimum. However, if you’re traveling with a small family, a campervan may be too small to fit you all comfortably, so a small l motorhome might be a better option.

Insurance for your campervan trip

Insurance is always one of those tricky topics to write about because it widely varies from person to person depending on the amount of risk you are willing to take. 

When traveling, we always make sure we are covered (we’ve heard some horror stories of accidents happening abroad).

Read the fine print of your credit card: A typical credit card rental car insurance policy only covers 4-door sedans and not campervans, so don’t rely on that coverage. 

As always, whether you get campervan rental insurance or not, we recommend getting medical travel insurance. 

Psst! We have an entire guide to how to choose the best travel insurance policy for you that should be helpful!

What to pack for a campervan trip

We have a whole checklist of things to bring for your campervan trip, but here are some items you really don’t want to forget:

• Aeropress: If you are a coffee drinker and your rental company doesn’t include a coffee maker (many don’t), definitely pack this!
• Rubber bands and/or chip clips: This is something that is often overlooked, but important to keep the food you buy sealed (think bags of granola, crackers, etc.).
• Spices and oil: When going on a campervan trip, we always like to bring our own spices so we don’t have to stock up. You can bring mini containers filled with your faves (we bring high-quality salt, pepper, cayenne, and any others that strike our fancy). We like this leak-proof container for storing coconut oil and this one for storing olive oil.
• Lightweight towel: If your campervan rental does not include towels in the rental price (many charge extra), bring your own! We like this microfiber one or this Turkish towel.
• Travel lumbar pillow: If you have a bad back (like Ben!), this would be clutch! He had some back issues during our trip, and was wishing we had packed his lumbar pillow. This inflatable version packs up small, so it’s perfect for campervan travel.
• Universal outlet adaptor: A basic travel item that everyone should have so you can plug in your device anywhere. 
• Shower shoes: Trust me when I say you don’t want to go barefoot in some of the campground showers! 
• Travel slippers: The floors of your vehicle will inevitably get dirty, so it’s nice to have a lightweight pair of slippers to wear at night to prevent your feet from collecting all that dirt.

We even created this handy PDF downloadable checklist so you don’t forget anything. And it’s totally FREE!

For more ideas, we have an article dedicated to all of the campervan essentials you might want to have on the road with you.

Packing for a baby on a campervan trip

This checklist has a whole section of all our baby-related items we recommend, but here are a few things we’d definitely recommend bringing if you are renting a campervan with a little one in tow.

• Travel high chair: We love this portable high chair and use it in our personal campervan at home. We also flew with it to Vancouver and loved that our daughter had a seat in our Bunk Camper.
• Travel tent: This is the sleeping tent that we used on trips when our daughter was under a year old. It packs up super small and gave her a safe space to sleep.
• Inflatable bed bumpers: We’ve transitioned from the tent to these as our daughter has grown and they worked really well to transform a normal bed into a safe sleeping space for our toddler.
• Your favorite baby foods: We found some baby-friendly foods while in Vancouver, but the selection was more limited than I was expecting. If you have favorites (freeze dried strawberries from Trader Joe’s are one of our go-tos for travel!), we’d recommend prioritizing packing foods over diapers and wipes, as those will be easier to find anywhere.
• Travel sound machine: We don’t go anywhere without this!
• Tap light: This light is super handy at home or on travels.

Psst! Looking for more family travel tips? Check out our list of practical (& super encouraging!) tips for traveling with a baby.

Where to stay in your campervan

You’ll be happy to know that there are tons of campgrounds all over Western Canada.

Public campgrounds, located in national and provincial parks, are very well-maintained and usually have some facilities, like restrooms and dump stations. These sites should be booked in advance as they tend to fill up.

Private campgrounds can vary a lot in terms of price, amenities, and location/views. Be sure to do your research and read reviews to find sites that fit your needs and travel style.

If you have a Harvest Hosts membership, then you’re in luck! Though it isn’t as popular in Canada as it is in the States, British Columbia does have a number of fantastic hosts, including farms, golf courses, and lots of wineries.

Are you thinking about signing up for Harvest Hosts? Or scratching your head because you’ve never heard of it before? Read our Harvest Hosts review to find out if a membership is right for you.

Wild Camping 

If you’re traveling on a tight budget and don’t want to pay for campgrounds every night, it’s worth mentioning that it may be possible to wild camp in Western Canada (aka park somewhere that is not an established campground). 

But you can’t just park anywhere. Canadian provinces have different rules regarding wild camping, so be sure to do your research to avoid inadvertently breaking the law (yikes!) on your road trip.

Good to know: A lot of BC’s dispersed camping is accessed by unserviced gravel roads. Check with your rental company before your trip to see if you’re allowed to take your campervan on these roads.

When to plan your Vancouver campervan trip

We personally visited this Canadian slice of heaven in early September (twice). It was perfect for all the outdoor activities we could fit in: hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, and even skydiving! Plus, we missed all the crowds of the summer months, so we think it was a pretty perfect time to go.

That said, Western Canada is stunning year-round and when you go might depend on which activities are most important to you. Do you want to hike or ski? Hit the beach or go snowshoeing? Have beers on a patio or next to a roaring fire?

It’s also worth noting that Vancouver’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean means it has a much milder climate than other parts of Canada. Even in winter, temperatures rarely dip below freezing, and the city sees more rain than snow.

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Love the idea of campervan trips around the world? 

Us too (hence why we keep booking campervan trips!).

Here are some more ideas for you to bookmark for future travels:

• Scotland Campervan Rental Guide
• Iceland Campervan Rental Guide 
• New Zealand Campervan Rental Guide
• Ireland Campervan Rental Guide
• UK Campervan Guide
• Italy Campervan Rental Guide
• France Campervan Rental Guide
• USA Campervan Rental Guide

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Are you planning a Vancouver campervan trip and still have questions? Leave your comment below and we’ll do our best to get you the answers you’re looking for!