Why You Should Experience Van Life with a Baby At Least Once
Taking your baby on a van life adventure might seem overwhelming at first, but with a little pre-planning, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re considering a short weekend escape or dreaming of a longer road trip across Australia, van life with your little one offers a special kind of freedom and connection that’s hard to find with a hotel room and a rental car.
This guide will walk you through some practical tips for planning a family-friendly campervan road trip with a baby, from finding the best campervan hire options to choosing baby-friendly destinations. By the end, you will have all the tools to make your Australia road trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible! But first...
When can you travel with your baby?
One of the first questions parents often ask is, “When is the right time to travel with a newborn baby?” While every family is different, many experts suggest waiting until your baby is at least a few months old before planning a significant trip. This allows time for your baby to develop a more predictable routine and for you to become more confident in managing their needs.
Also, you may need to consider where you are travelling from, for example, if you’re considering long haul flights or domestic flights to reach the starting point of your campervan journey. Before planning your trip, it’s wise to consult with your paediatrician. They can provide personalised advice based on your baby’s health and development.
The benefits of van life with a baby
One of the best things about van life is how it brings your family closer together in ways you might not expect. Here are a few of the major benefits of van life with a baby:
Quality family time
When you’re living in a campervan or motorhome, the close quarters naturally bring everyone closer, both physically and emotionally. Without the constant interruptions of work, technology, and everyday routines, you can engage in meaningful conversations, play with your baby, and share in the joy of discovering new places together.
Creating lasting memories
One of the most compelling reasons to try van life with a baby is the opportunity to create lasting memories in some of Australia’s most beautiful locations. Imagine your baby’s first encounter with nature—whether it’s feeling the sand between their toes at a remote beach, hearing the rustling of leaves in a quiet forest, or spotting wildlife from the comfort of your motorhome in the Outback. These moments are priceless, and the flexibility of van life means you can experience them without the pressure of strict schedules or rigid plans.
Adapting to a slower pace
Van life naturally encourages a slower, more deliberate pace of living, which can be incredibly beneficial for both you and your baby. Unlike the fast-paced nature of traditional travel, where itineraries are often packed with back-to-back activities, van life allows you to embrace a more mindful approach.
You can enjoy leisurely mornings sipping coffee while your baby naps, take the time to explore each destination at your own pace and savour the simple pleasures of life on the road.
Flexibility and freedom on the road
One of the greatest advantages of van life is the unparalleled flexibility and freedom it offers, especially when you’re travelling with a baby. In this section, we’ll dive into how a customisable itinerary allows you to tailor your journey to your baby’s needs and moods.
Customisable itinerary
When you’re travelling with a baby, having the freedom to create your own schedule is a game-changer. Van life allows you to go wherever the road takes you and, most importantly, wherever your baby’s needs guide you. If your baby needs an extra nap or seems fussy in the afternoon, you can easily adjust your plans without the stress of missing a long haul flight with air travel or a booked tour. This flexibility is what makes campervan travel arguably the best way to explore with a baby.
Direct access to nature
One of the biggest perks of van life is the direct access to nature. There’s no need to pack up the car and drive to a trailhead or a park; you’re already there. Imagine stepping out of your motorhome for a morning walk in the woods, a beachside picnic, or an impromptu visit to a nearby national park to explore some of the best walks in Australia—all without the hassle of complex logistics.
This ease of access is particularly beneficial when you’re travelling with a baby. You can take short breaks throughout the day to let your baby stretch, play, or nap in the fresh air. It’s also easier to introduce your baby to the wonders of nature, whether it’s watching the waves crash on the shore or listening to birdsong in the forest.
Choosing baby-friendly destinations
Selecting the right destinations is key to a successful van life experience with a baby. Look for campsites and caravan parks that are family-friendly, offering amenities like clean facilities, shaded areas, and safe spaces for babies to play. Opt for locations with mild weather to keep your baby comfortable, and ensure that you’re never too far from medical services, just in case.
It’s also wise to choose destinations where you can find baby essentials within easy reach. Many popular Australia road trip routes have well-equipped towns and stops along the way, so if you forget something or need to restock, it’s easy to do so. Planning your Australia itinerary with baby-friendly spots in mind will make your journey smoother and more enjoyable for everyone.
Practical tips for van life with a baby
Van life with a baby requires some extra planning, but with the right preparation, it can be a breeze. Here are a few of our top tips for van life with a baby that will make all the difference for your next adventure:
Prioritising safety
Safety is paramount when you’re on the road with a baby. From car seats to baby-proofing, these are our go-to's for prioritising safety for children on the road.
Car seats for babies and toddlers
With Apollo campervan hire, you have the option to hire a forward-facing car seat or booster that meets safety standards, but bringing your own can ensure it fits your comfort and familiarity. If you require a rear-facing car seat for a baby, you will need to bring your own.
Make sure the car seat is securely installed in the motorhome or campervan. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, and if in doubt, seek assistance to ensure it’s properly fitted.
Baby proofing
Baby-proofing the van, like a holiday home, is essential. Consider securing cabinets, covering sharp edges, and removing any small objects that could pose a choking hazard.
Emergency kits
It’s also a good idea to keep an emergency kit on hand, including basic first aid supplies, any necessary medications, and extra baby essentials like diapers and formula.
Packing essentials for a baby
When preparing a packing list for van life with a baby, it’s all about striking the right balance between bringing what you need and keeping things travel-friendly. Some must-have items include a portable crib, compact baby food storage solutions, and travel-friendly toys that can keep your little one entertained on the road. You’ll also want to pack plenty of baby wipes, diapers, and a few changes of clothes—babies have a knack for needing fresh outfits at the most inconvenient times!
Many campervans also come equipped with small refrigerators, which can be a lifesaver. This means you can bring along a breast pump and store breast milk in the fridge for effortless feeding—a game-changer for baby travel. Alternatively, there is plenty of storage for formula powder, and with a full kitchen and kettle, you always have easy access to hot water.
Managing daily routines on the road
Maintaining your baby’s routine on the road can be challenging, but it’s crucial for their comfort (and your sanity). Try to stick to regular feeding times, naps, and bedtime as much as possible.
That said, flexibility is key. Your baby might need more naps after a long day of exploring, or they might be hungry at odd times due to all the excitement.
Fortunately, many shops, cafes, and restaurants in Australia are quite baby-friendly, often willing to help with warming up bottles or baby food. This can make it easier to manage your baby’s needs while you’re out and about, ensuring that your daily routine is as smooth as possible.
Baby carrier
If you are travelling with a baby, we highly recommend bringing along a comfortable baby carrier. This will really enhance your experience and allow you more freedom and access to remote areas than travelling with a stroller.
Feeding your baby on the go
As with most things, maintaining a regular feeding schedule can help keep your baby content and reduce fussiness while feeding your baby on the road. However, be prepared for some flexibility. The excitement and new experiences might affect your baby’s appetite and feeding times.
Having a few infant travel essentials, such as portable baby food storage solutions, bottles, and a compact high chair or booster seat, is a great addition to the van. Plus, shops, cafes, and restaurants in Australia are particularly helpful with baby things, so you can also pack a bag and ask them to warm up a bottle or food, etc.
Comfortable sleeping arrangements
Creating a comfortable sleeping space for your baby in the campervan is essential for a good night’s rest—for both you and your little one. A portable crib is a great option, as it provides a familiar, secure place for your baby to sleep.
You can also bring along a favourite sleeping toy, blankets that smell like home, or even a white noise machine to help your baby feel more at ease in a new environment. The goal is to recreate the comfort of home as much as possible.
Exposing your baby to new experiences
Van life is not just about the places you visit; it’s also about the experiences you share as a family. Travelling with your baby opens up a world of new sights, sounds, and sensations that can have a profound impact on their development.
Stimulating sensory development
The changing landscapes, the sounds of nature, the feel of different textures—these all contribute to your baby’s cognitive and sensory development. Whether it’s the smell of the ocean breeze, the sound of birds chirping, or the feel of soft sand, these experiences help to stimulate your baby’s senses in a way that staying at home simply can’t.
Introducing your baby to a variety of environments encourages curiosity and helps them make sense of the world around them. Plus, it’s a joy to watch your baby’s face light up with wonder as they encounter new things.
TOP TIP: Want more ideas for educational activities? Check out the full guide to educational activities for kids on an Australian road trip.
Building adaptability and resilience
Travelling with a baby naturally comes with its fair share of challenges, from adjusting to different sleep schedules to handling unexpected changes in routine. However, these experiences can actually help build your baby’s adaptability and resilience. By exposing your baby to different environments and gently pushing them out of their comfort zone, you’re helping them learn to cope with change from a young age.
This adaptability will serve them well as they grow older, making them more flexible and open to new experiences. And for parents, seeing their baby thrive in new situations can be incredibly rewarding.
TOP TIP: for ideas on keeping kids entertained, check out our top recommendations for kid-friendly games and activities for van life.
Fostering a love for nature
One of the greatest gifts you can give your child is a love for the outdoors. By taking your baby on a van life adventure, you’re immersing them in nature from the very beginning.
Whether it’s watching the sunrise over a mountain range, listening to the waves crash on a secluded beach, or simply enjoying the fresh air during a hike, these experiences can spark a deep connection to nature. This early exposure to the natural world and responsible campervan travel can foster a lifelong appreciation for the environment.
Overcoming challenges on the road
Van life with a baby is an incredible adventure, but it’s not without its challenges. This section will help you navigate some of the common hurdles you might face while on the road.
Managing expectations
It’s important to go into your van life adventure with realistic expectations. Not every moment will be picture-perfect, and that’s okay. Babies can be fussy, the weather can change unexpectedly, and plans might need to be adjusted on the fly. The beauty of van life is that it offers the flexibility to adapt to these situations.
If your baby is having a rough day, don’t hesitate to park somewhere calm and take the time to relax and settle. If the weather turns sour, you can drive to a baby-friendly attraction or find a cosy spot to wait out the storm. Remember, van life is just like being at home but with the added benefit of mobility. Being adaptable and rolling with the punches will make your journey much more enjoyable.
Staying calm and positive
When things don’t go as planned, it’s crucial to stay calm and keep a positive outlook. Travelling with a baby can be stressful at times, but maintaining a sense of humour and working together as a team will help you get through the tough moments. Take deep breaths, remind yourself that you’re on this adventure to create memories, and focus on the bigger picture.
Communication between you and your partner is key. Whether it’s taking turns driving, managing the baby, or handling unexpected situations, teamwork will help ease the stress. And remember, the ups and downs are all part of the journey. Embracing them with a positive attitude will make your van life experience more rewarding.
Backup plans for the unexpected
No matter how well you plan, things can go off course. That’s why having backup plans is essential. Whether it’s a sudden weather change or an unexpected detour, being prepared will save you a lot of headaches.
Consider keeping a list of indoor activities or nearby attractions that are good options if the weather doesn’t cooperate. Being flexible and having alternatives ready will ensure that a little rain (or any other hiccup) doesn’t ruin your day.
It's just like being at home but with the ability to be mobile! If you have a fussy baby, park up somewhere calm and take time to relax and settle, or drive to a baby-friendly attraction if the weather turns sour.
Why it’s worth trying van life with a baby
Despite the challenges, van life with a baby is an experience that’s truly worth trying. This section will explore the unique stories you’ll create, the confidence you’ll gain as a parent, and the satisfaction of knowing you’ve embraced the adventure. Even if van life turns out to be a one-time thing, it’s an experience that can shape your family’s journey in wonderful ways.
Creating a unique family story
Van life with a baby isn’t just about the places you visit; it’s about the stories you create together. Whether it’s the time you all laughed as the rain pounded on the roof while you were parked by a serene lake, or the moment your baby took their first steps on a sandy beach, these are the memories that will become cherished family stories. Even if you only do it once, this adventure will be a defining chapter in your family’s story—a tale you’ll tell for years to come.
Gaining confidence as a parent
Travelling with a baby is no small feat, and managing van life on top of that can significantly boost your confidence as a parent. Each challenge you overcome on the road will reinforce your ability to handle new and difficult situations. Whether it’s navigating a new city, dealing with an unexpected change in plans, or simply keeping your baby happy and safe while exploring the great outdoors, these experiences will make you more resilient and assured in your parenting abilities.
Living with no regrets
One of the greatest benefits of trying van life with your baby is the peace of mind that comes from living with no regrets. Even if you find that van life isn’t quite what you expected, you won’t have to wonder, “what if?” Instead, you’ll have a collection of memories, experiences, and stories that you’ll carry with you forever. Embracing the adventure, with all its highs and lows, means knowing you made the most of this unique opportunity to explore the world together as a family.
Rent a motorhome hire or campervan with Apollo
Ready to start planning your own baby-friendly van life adventure? You can easily book your Apollo camper online and pick it up from any of Apollo’s convenient locations across Australia. With a wide range of vehicles to choose from, including options that are perfect for families, Apollo has everything you need to make your van life experience with a baby a success.