Camper Van Parked on the Beach

About this drawing

A camper van on sand is many people's idea of the perfect morning: open the door and the ocean is right there. Still, not every van counts as a camper. It needs gear that lets you sleep, cook and store things inside the vehicle itself.

The best-known feature is the pop-top roof, which folds up like an accordion and makes room to stand or to add a second bed. Inside you will usually find a seat that turns into a bed, a small sink, a stove, and tanks for fresh and used water. Many vans also carry an extra battery that charges while driving or from solar panels on the roof.

Van conversions have become a big do-it-yourself hobby in the United States, with people building cabinets and beds in their driveways. Factory-built versions also exist, and in the RV world they belong to the smallest class of motorhome. Either way, the appeal is the same: a new view every day and your home rolling along with you, a bit like a snail on wheels.

Before heading out, campers balance the load inside, check the stove's fuel and fill the water tank. And when they leave a spot, the rule is simple: leave it as clean as you found it.

• camper van
• beach
• camping
• road trip
• palm trees