How to Prepare Your VW Transporter for Long Road Trips
There’s nothing quite like the excitement before a long-awaited road trip in your converted VW Transporter. We are lucky in the UK to have some incredible roadtrips. But before you throw your gear in the van and head off, let’s talk about preparation.
I’ve been on enough road trips (and done enough campervan conversions) to know that a bit of effort before you leave can mean the difference between a smooth, stress-free journey and a trip full of unexpected breakdowns, or a frustrating game of “where did I put that?” in the middle of the night.
Trust me, I’ve been there.
So, in this guide, I’ll walk you through everything I do before hitting the road so you can get the most out of your trip. Let’s dive in.
Check the Van’s Mechanics First and Foremost
Make sure to schedule a full service in advance if you need
Before anything else, I always make sure to book a comprehensive service a couple of weeks ahead. It’s all about tackling any potential issues before they become a headache on the road.
Getting your van serviced in advance gives you peace of mind and ensures that any maintenance work is sorted without the last-minute rush. Trust me, a little scheduling now saves you a lot of stress later.
Don’t forget to check your engine oil and coolant
Next up is the engine oil. I grab the dipstick and take a good look at the oil level and condition. Fresh, clean oil is absolutely vital because it keeps the engine cool and running smoothly.
Also, make sure you have enough coolant by checking that the coolant reservoir is close to ‘max.’ In my experience, overheating is one of the most common issues for a VW transporter on long road trips.
So, make sure you don’t skip this step. It’s a simple check that makes a huge difference.
It’s important to inspect belts and hoses
Lastly, I like to give the belts and hoses a bit of an inspection. I gently tug on each one to see if there are any cracks or signs of fraying. These components might seem minor, but they’re crucial to your van’s performance.
Replacing any worn parts before they cause a breakdown is key to staying safe and keeping your journey as smooth as possible. Over the years, I’ve learned that this little bit of extra attention goes a long way in avoiding unexpected mishaps on the road.
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Most Common VW Failures on Long Road Trips
Long journeys can reveal issues that might not appear during your everyday driving. Even though many VW Transporters are generally very reliable, there are some common issues that come up during long-distance travel.
Here are some of the most common failures you might encounter on a long road trip:
- Cooling System Problems:
Prolonged motorway driving can stress the cooling system. A low coolant level, failing water pump, or radiator leaks can lead to engine overheating. This has happened to me while on a highway – trust me, it’s not fun! Make sure to check coolant levels before your trip. - Turbocharger Issues:
Diesel models, in particular, may suffer from problems like turbocharger wear or a clogged EGR valve. Over time, carbon buildup can reduce engine efficiency, leading to rough idling and loss of power. Examine the EGR valve for any clogs to be sure. - Transmission & Clutch Wear:
Continuous high-speed driving accelerates the wear on transmission components and the clutch. Symptoms like sluggish gear changes or unusual noises can indicate that these parts are approaching the end of their service life. Pay attention to any odd sounds and inspect the transmission fluid levels, checking for any leaks around the joints. - Electrical Glitches:
Long trips can expose intermittent electrical faults or sensor issues. These minor malfunctions could lead to headlight issues, which is a massive problem especially in winter or foggy conditions. Make sure to check out visible wiring and fuse boxes for signs of corrosion, loose connections, or damaged components. - Door and Seal Issues:
Extended driving, especially in wet or salty conditions, can worsen problems with sliding door mechanisms and window seals. This can lead to water ingress, which not only affects comfort but may also lead to interior dampness and, over time, corrosion.
After you wash the van, make sure to check around the door for any preliminary signs of corrosion.
My biggest advice is to stay proactive with pre-trip inspections and routine maintenance – you’ll be surprised what you can prevent when you catch these issues early!
Consider Smart Upgrades
If you haven’t taken your van out for more than a weekend, it’s worth considering if you will benefit from any more upgrades before you take the van for its first long road trip.
Trust me, your van might feel comfortable for a weekend away, but it is a very different thing to live in it for weeks or months on end. If you’ve still got a few months or weeks up your sleeve before your trip starts, have a think about making these upgrades.
An awning rail will increase living space
I recommend installing an awning rail for longer road trips, especially if you’re travelling with kids or a few friends. An awning will not only shield you from the rain and sun, but it also allows the group to spread out a bit more.
If you spend too many days cooped up together, it’s a recipe for disaster. I always say some extra space can do wonders to smooth over the group dynamic.
Plus, having a wind out awning is a quick and fairly cheap upgrade to your van, so it’s really a no-brainer. If you’re after a bit of guidance on which awning to choose, check out my blog on awning options for VW transporters.
Don't forget your awning rails!
Awning rails allow you to extend a shade right from the side of your van.
A pop top roof will add headroom and extra beds
A pop top roof is a big investment, but it is totally worth it for long trips. The extra headroom that a pop top roof adds makes the van much more liveable.
It’s a great feeling to be able to stretch out when cooking, getting changed and reorganising gear. Your back and knees will certainly thank you!
Pop tops also add 2 extra sleeping spaces to your VW van, so you can bring the kids or a few friends along without having to set up an extra tent at every stop. Like they say, the more the merrier 😁.
Just a note, pop tops can be pretty tricky to DIY (read my blog on the most common DIY pop top roof mistakes for VW Transporters!), so if you are feeling nervous you can always give me and my team a call to help you with the installation!
Also, don’t worry if your van is already converted. We are experts in installing pop tops around pre-existing conversions.
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Think about a security system
A lot of my customers install a security system before they head out on longer road trips. When you take your van really far from home, you often feel much less secure than you do closer to home.
When you’re in a foreign country, it’s simply harder to know which areas are unsafe and should be avoided at night. Also, on longer road trips you might opt to park your van somewhere for a night or two while you stay in a hotel.
To safeguard your van when you’re in unfamiliar locations, Scorpion Security systems are reliable and tailored specifically for campervans. It includes alarms, immobilisers and tracking systems so you can relax and enjoy your trip knowing your van is secure!
All-terrain tyres could come in handy for off-road campsites
Another easy upgrade I recommend before your long road trip is for your tyres. If you don’t have a 4 motion VW Transporter, simply upgrading your tyres to heavy-duty All Terrain models could get you out of some tight spots.
In my opinion, if your trip route includes dirt or gravel tracks, all-terrain tyres are a really important upgrade for safety because they’ll give you more control over the van. The same goes for winter trips when you’re driving over snow and ice.
Not to mention, just a bit of rain can make grassy campsites really tricky to drive through.
So, do yourself a favour and upgrade the tyres on your VW transporter before your long road trip!
Test All Your Conversion Components
So, you’re happy with your conversion and you’ve checked over all the mechanical stuff. Next, it’s time to double check everything inside is working as it should. Before I go away for a road trip, I’ll potter around my VW transporter and test everything. This is especially important if your van has been sitting idle in the garage for a while.
Sometimes electrical components decide to take a break, your bed hinges might seize up, or you could find your blinds marked with mould from a pesky leak you hadn’t noticed. These are usually easy fixes at home but a real pain once you’re on the road.
What you need to test in a VW Transporter
Here’s a list of some of the most important checks I do:
- Lights: Check all exterior and interior lights – headlights, tail-lights, indicators – to ensure they’re functioning perfectly. This will be covered in your service, but it never hurts to double check.
- Pop Top Roof: Open and close the pop top a few times, checking that the hinges move smoothly and the locking mechanisms engage securely to avoid any issues on the road.
- Bed Conversion: Inspect the bed hinges and any sliding or folding parts to make sure they operate correctly, so you’re not left struggling with setup at your campsite.
- Awning: Wind out your awning and check it hasn’t rusted or degraded.
- Electrical and Heating Systems: Run tests on your battery, charging circuits, USB outlets, inverters, diesel heaters and any solar panels to confirm a reliable power supply when you’re off-grid.
- Integrated Kitchen Units: Examine built-in appliances like the stove or fridge, ensuring they’re in tip-top shape and ready for your long road trips.
- Water System: Test the water pump, taps, and storage tanks for leaks or blockages to prevent any unexpected issues while on the move.
- Curtains and Blinds: Open and close them and inspect for any mould or moisture damage from unnoticed leaks.
- Safety Equipment: Ensure your fire extinguisher is fully charged, and that your roadside warning triangle and high-visibility vests are easily accessible in case of an emergency.
Stock Up on Safety Essentials
Pack an emergency toolkit for quick van repairs
I always make sure my van is equipped with an emergency toolkit. I pack spare fuses, bulbs, jumper cables, extra coolant, and even a portable tyre inflator. Trust me, having these essentials on hand can save you from a roadside hassle when small repairs are needed.
You’ll also want to pack a first aid kit
Next up, I double-check my first aid kit to ensure it’s well stocked with all the basics like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and a thermal blanket.
In my opinion, a comprehensive first aid kit is absolutely crucial if you’re planning on camping, especially if it’s remote.
Give the Van a Deep Clean
Before setting off on a long road trip, I always take the time to give my van a proper deep clean. I literally empty out everything and get in to clean every nook and cranny.
In my experience, there’s just something really satisfying about starting your trip in a spotless van.
What you should clean in your VW Transporter
Ok, here’s my cleaning checklist to give you an idea. Take as little or as much as you’d like from it!
- Upholstery and Soft Furnishings: I start by deep cleaning all the seating areas, cushions, and curtains. Start with a vacuum then use a solution of vinegar, warm water and dish soap to treat stains. If needed, you can also use this to treat your carpet lining.
- Appliances and Kitchen: Scrub all the kitchen surfaces – under the sink, inside the fridge and the stove top.
- Windows and Mirrors: I wash both the inside of all the windows and mirrors.
- Floors: A good vacuum and mop go a long way. Don’t forget to go behind the fridge!
- Cabinetry and Storage Areas: I wipe down all the shelves, cupboards, and drawers.
- Air Vents and Filters: I never forget the air conditioning vents and filters. Cleaning or replacing them ensures the airflow remains fresh and keeps the interior environment pleasant.
- Pop-Top Roof: I clean both the interior and exterior of the pop-top roof, checking for any dust buildup or mould. Use that same solution you used on the upholstery. By the way, if you don’t already have one, check out my blog on the benefits of a pop top roof for VW Transporters!
- Ceiling and Walls: I take a few minutes to dust off the ceiling and walls, getting rid of any cobwebs or stubborn marks.
Organise the Van So it’s Safe and Functional
Okay, so you’ve put the elbow grease in and the van is spotless. Now, it’s time to put everything back in a methodical way. Make sure you’re thinking about functionality and safety here.
Organise everything for functionality
After the deep clean, I take the opportunity to rethink how I organise everything. Clearing out the van is a great exercise in being choosy about what goes back in.
If you’re planning to live in the van for weeks at a time, it’s better to be conservative about what you bring rather than have your cupboards bursting at the seams.
A well-organised van means every item has its place, making it easier to find what you need and keeping your space functional and stress-free on the road.
Don’t forget to secure loose items
In my experience, it can be hard to tell if all your items are secured without doing a trial run. Go around the block and listen out for anything rattling or shifting.
Remember, unsecured items in your VW campervan are hazards and can cause serious damage if you have to stop suddenly. Always be on the safe side!
Key Takeaways
And there you have it. Your VW Transporter is now prepped and ready to roll!
Now, all that’s left to do is load up and get going.
Preparation might not be the most glamorous part of van life, but I can tell you from experience – it makes a world of difference. When you know your van is in top condition and everything is exactly where it should be, you can focus on enjoying yourself.
And if you ever need help with a VW Transporter campervan conversion or even just an upgrade, you know where to find me 😜. Safe travels, and see you on the road!
