Why a Pre-Trip Checklist is Your Best Travel Companion

So let’s dive into why a checklist isn’t just useful – it’s essential. And better yet, we’ll walk you through how to build your own, tailored to your Spartan campervan and travel style.

Why Checklists Matter More Than You Think
It might seem like a simple thing, but our brains love checklists. They reduce mental load, eliminate decision fatigue, and help us stay calm when we’re juggling multiple tasks – which is exactly what pre-trip packing often feels like. Think of it as setting yourself up to succeed before you’ve even left your driveway.

Here’s a classic scenario: you arrive at your pitch, open the fridge, and realise you forgot the gas canister. Or worse, you’ve left your passport at home for a cross-border trip. We’ve all been there – but with a pre-trip checklist, you never have to be again.

Start with the Essentials
Your checklist should start with the non-negotiables – the things that can’t be bought or replaced en route. These include:

• Driving licence

• Campervan insurance and MOT

• Breakdown cover details

• Spartan user manual

• Keys (both van and interior lockers)

• Wallet, cards, and ID/passport (if travelling abroad)

• Medication or health needs

Once you’ve ticked those off, move on to safety and systems.

System Checks Before You Set Off
This part of your checklist is all about making sure your campervan is road-ready. Here are some of the most common things we remind Spartan owners to check before a trip:

• Tyre pressure and tread

• Engine oil and coolant levels

• Windscreen washer fluid

• Battery voltage (especially your leisure battery)

• Water tanks (clean and full)

• Gas bottles (full and secure)

• Waste tank (emptied)

• Electric hook-up cable packed

• Solar panel functioning (if fitted)

• Fridge operation (12V / mains / gas)

• Lights and indicators working

These checks might seem basic, but you’d be amazed how many people skip them in the excitement of departure. A 10-minute walk-around can save a lot of stress down the road – literally.

Personal Packing: Less is More (but Don’t Forget These!)
Here’s where your checklist becomes personal. Clothes, toiletries, footwear, entertainment – these will vary depending on the season and length of your trip. But some things are always worth including:

• Torch or headlamp (plus spare batteries)

• USB leads and charging adapters

• Wet wipes, bin bags, and tissues

• First aid kit (including plasters, paracetamol, insect bite cream)

• Sunscreen and insect repellent

• Notebook and pen

• Camping chairs and table

• Pack of cards or a board game for rainy nights

Remember, in a campervan, space is precious. Use soft bags or packing cubes to keep things flexible and easy to store. If you’ve done a checklist, you’re less likely to throw in ten extra “just in case” items that never get used but take up valuable space.

Kitchen and Food Prep Essentials
Whether you’re planning gourmet campfire meals or quick one-pot wonders, having a well-stocked kitchen area makes life on the road so much more enjoyable. Key checklist items include:

• Gas kettle or hob

• Pots, pans, utensils, and chopping board

• Plates, bowls, mugs, and cutlery

• Dish cloths and tea towels

• Washing up liquid and sponge

• Cool box or fridge items (milk, butter, snacks)

• Dry goods (pasta, rice, coffee, cereal)

• Condiments and spices in small containers

• Bin bags and food storage containers

At Spartan, we always recommend a bit of meal prep before you leave. Pre-chopped veg or pre-cooked meals mean you can spend more time relaxing and less time cooking.

Tech and Navigation
We live in a digital age, and many campervan adventurers rely on a combination of sat nav, travel apps, and downloaded maps. Your checklist should cover:

• Phone or tablet (with offline maps loaded)

• Power bank or spare charger

• Apps like Park4Night, What3Words, and Google Maps

• Campervan manual and service info saved digitally

And of course – if your van is fitted with a tracker or alarm system, do a quick functionality check before you go.

Weather-Ready Additions
British weather can be beautifully unpredictable. That’s why your checklist should always include a few “just in case” items:

• Rain jackets and waterproof shoes

• Warm fleece or jumper

• Sun hats and sunglasses

• Umbrella or awning side panels

• Extra blankets for chilly nights

Even in the summer, nights can be cold, especially in the countryside. Better to have it and not need it than be shivering at 2 a.m.

Make It a Ritual
At Spartan Campers, we believe in creating rituals that make van life easy and enjoyable. Turning your checklist into a pre-departure ritual – maybe a final cup of tea while you go through your list together – sets a calm, positive tone for the journey ahead. You’ll feel confident that nothing’s been missed, and you’ll start your trip with a clear head.

Keep a Laminated Copy in Your Van
One great trick we’ve seen from the Spartan Family is laminating their checklist and using a dry-erase pen to tick off items before each trip. That way, it’s always there, ready to use again and again. You could even break your checklist into “Home Prep” and “Final Van Check” to split responsibilities if travelling with a partner or family.