Be ready for the unexpected, wherever the road takes you
When it comes to campervan adventures, freedom is the name of the game. The open road, wild landscapes, and the thrill of having everything you need right there with you. But as any experienced van owner will tell you – even the smoothest trips come with the occasional bump. A loose cupboard hinge. A flickering light. A blown fuse. These are small problems – if you’re prepared.
At Spartan Campers, we build our vans tough and dependable, but life on the road is full of surprises. And that’s why our essential campervanning tip today is simple but powerful: always carry a basic tool kit.
No, we’re not expecting you to become a mobile mechanic. But with a handful of the right tools, you can fix most minor hiccups yourself – and avoid costly, time-consuming detours. Let’s break down why this is so important, what your kit should include, and some real-world examples from the Spartan Family.
Why a Tool Kit Matters (Even if You’re Not Handy)
You might be thinking, “I’m not a DIY person.” And that’s absolutely fine. But even simple repairs can make the difference between staying on the move or losing a day to the nearest garage. A rattling interior panel might just need a screwdriver. A flickering light might need a fresh fuse. A jammed drawer could be sorted with a pair of pliers.
Having the right tools gives you confidence and control. It helps keep your camper in great condition. And it makes sure those little problems stay little.
What to Include in a Campervan Tool Kit
You don’t need a suitcase full of kit. You just need a reliable, compact set of essentials. Here’s what we recommend every campervan owner keep onboard:
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Screwdriver (with interchangeable heads)
Most of the fittings inside your van – cupboard hinges, drawer runners, clips – can be sorted with a quick turn of the right screwdriver. -
Adjustable spanner
Perfect for tightening bolts, hose connections, and general maintenance. -
Pliers
Great for pulling out nails, twisting wires, or gripping things in awkward places. -
Tape measure
Useful for hanging storage or measuring for new accessories. -
Duct tape and insulation tape
A roll of duct tape is like magic – it’ll hold almost anything together temporarily until you get home. Electrical tape is handy for safe wire repairs. -
Cable ties
From securing loose wires to emergency curtain rod fixes, these little heroes are worth their weight in gold. -
Head torch
Two hands are better than one, especially when you’re fixing something in a dark corner. A head torch frees up your hands to work. -
Assorted screws, bolts, and fuses
Your van’s electrical system might use mini blade fuses – carry a pack of spares. Screws and bolts? They always go missing when you need them most. -
WD-40 or multi-purpose lubricant
Stops squeaks, loosens stuck nuts, and keeps moving parts happy. -
Stanley knife or multi-tool
Good for precision jobs, opening sealed packages, or trimming materials. -
Work gloves
Protect your hands from hot parts, sharp edges, or gritty jobs.
Spartan Hint: Store Your Kit Where It’s Easy to Access
It’s tempting to shove your tool kit into the back of a cupboard and forget about it – until you need it. Keep it in a labelled box or soft tool bag under the seat, in the boot area, or even in an overhead cubby. Somewhere you can get to it fast, even in the rain.
Real-Life Fixes on the Road
Let’s talk about some typical van-life moments where a simple toolkit saves the day:
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Loose awning brackets: A quick tighten with a screwdriver means you’re not battling with a flapping awning in the middle of the night.
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Blown fuse in the fridge: Swapping out a fuse can get your fridge running again in minutes – and save a whole fridge full of food.
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Rattling cupboard door: A few seconds with a screwdriver brings the peace and quiet back.
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Loose tap or shower fitting: With a spanner and some tape, you’re back to washing off sandy feet in no time.
Our Spartan Family member Tom told us, “My back tailgate light stopped working when we were in Snowdonia. I had a spare fuse and a screwdriver in my kit – took me ten minutes to fix. Without that, we’d have been cutting the trip short.” It’s that simple.
Preventive Maintenance = Fewer Breakdowns
Having a tool kit isn’t just about emergencies. It’s also about regular little check-ups. Every few trips, check your hinges and bolts, tighten anything that’s working loose, and spray your door seals with a bit of lubricant to stop squeaks and prolong their life.
Your van takes you everywhere – looking after it regularly helps it keep going strong.
Don’t Forget These Bonus Add-Ons
If you’ve got a bit of extra room, these extras are great additions:
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Multimeter – Helps test your 12V system for battery charge or dodgy wiring.
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Tyre pressure gauge and inflator – Good tyre health = safer driving and better fuel economy.
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Spare bulbs – Keeping your lights working is not just sensible, it’s the law.
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Sealant – For fixing minor leaks or resealing fittings if needed.
A Note on Safety
Only tackle what you’re confident doing. If it’s anything to do with the gas system, or you’re unsure about electrics, call a qualified professional. But don’t let that stop you from being self-sufficient with the basics – you’ll be surprised how much you can handle with a bit of confidence.
In the world of campervanning, self-reliance is one of your best allies. A simple, well-stocked tool kit gives you confidence, freedom, and peace of mind – three things you want on every journey. Whether it’s a loose bolt, a flickering light, or a stubborn drawer, you’ll be ready.
At Spartan Campers, we build tough vans – but we also know that having your own back on the road is part of the joy. Pack your tool kit, know where it is, and hit the road knowing you’re prepared for whatever comes your way. Because freedom is even better when it’s backed by a little know-how.
