Traveling isn't always about reaching the destination – it's about cherishing the journey. With Vintage Surfari Wagons, your journey will become an adventure. Our fleet of vintage VW campers stationed in Southern California can take you back in time while embracing the joy of the open road.

Perfectly refurbished and equipped with all the essentials, these iconic vehicles are the perfect companions for your next vacation. In this blog post, we'll guide you through 12 handy tips for planning a memorable road trip with Vintage Surfari Wagons. Buckle up!

Choose the Right Vintage Wagon for Your Needs

Your wagon sets the tone for your road trip adventure.

At Vintage Surfari Wagons, we offer a slew of stunning VW and Mercedes campers, from nostalgic Bay Windows to modern Eurovans. Each van has its character, charm, and distinctive features, catering to different needs and styles.

Want the vintage vibe of a 70s hippie bus? Try the Ala Lani. Craving modern conveniences without sacrificing style? A Mercedes Metris might be your pick. Consider your trip length, the number of travelers, and your preferences when selecting your wagon. And don't hesitate to ask us if you are unsure which one to pick.

Plan Your Route

Once you've chosen your ideal camper, it's time to map out your journey. Southern California is home to many awe-inspiring destinations, and these wagons are ready to take you there. Use resources like campground directories, maps included in your van, or online trip-planning tools to identify interesting spots and hidden gems. Remember, the VW wave is universal, so don't hesitate to ask other vintage VW enthusiasts for recommendations!

Pack Smart

Since all of our wagons come outfitted with almost everything you need for your expedition – from a fully equipped kitchenette with cooking utensils, pots, pans, and dishes, to other essentials like a coffee press and camping gear, we recommend you pack light. “But what about my personal items?” you may ask. Space in a camper van is precious, so every item you pack should be considered carefully.

● Opt for versatile clothing that can be layered for varying weather conditions.

● Pack compact toiletries, and consider bringing eco-friendly products to minimize your environmental footprint.

● Don't forget essential items like medication, sunblock, and your favorite pair of sunglasses.

Check the Weather

Weather can dictate your route, your wardrobe, and even your daily activities. Staying ahead of weather forecasts allows you to adjust your plans accordingly. Sunny day ahead? It's time to hit the beach! A little rain in the forecast? It might be the perfect day to explore a local museum or cozy up in your camper with a good book.

Remember, Vintage Surfari Wagons are more than just transportation – they are mobile shelters equipped to handle whatever weather surprises come your way. Even if you encounter a spot of rain, you have a cozy, dry space to retreat to, complete with a fully equipped kitchen for a hot meal.

Understand Your Wagon

Every Vintage Surfari Wagon is a classic – a vintage vehicle restored and equipped for modern adventure. These iconic campers are designed to be your home on wheels, complete with a pop-up roof, two fold-out beds, and a small kitchenette. Each wagon is unique, infused with its charm and personality, and furnished with everything you need for a fun and memorable road trip.

If you're a first-time camper-vanner, the very idea of maneuvering these classics might seem daunting. But fret not! The friendly team at Vintage Surfari Wagons is always ready to give you a comprehensive walkthrough of your chosen van.

Don't Forget Entertainment

A road trip, in itself, is a fun-filled adventure. But having a range of entertainment options can enhance your journey further. Board games can lead to memorable nights of friendly competition, a stack of good books can be your companion during quiet afternoons, and an instrument like a ukulele can lead to impromptu sing-alongs by the campfire.

Keep It Clean

Our wagons are vintage vehicles and require a bit more TLC. Fortunately, each wagon comes equipped with basic cleaning supplies like brooms, dishwashing liquid, and sponges. Make a habit of cleaning up after each meal and before you start driving each day. Not only does it help maintain the vehicle, but it also enhances your overall road trip experience.

Practice Safe Driving

Driving a vintage vehicle may feel different from a modern car, especially when it comes to braking distances, nimbleness, and cornering. These iconic vehicles have been lovingly restored and cared for by the dedicated team at Vintage Surfari Wagons. Hence, it's always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the machine before you set off. Remember, safety always comes first.

Final Thoughts

Every journey with a Vintage Surfari Wagon is a unique adventure. With careful planning, thoughtful preparation, and a spirit of adventure, your road trip can become the vacation of a lifetime. As the saying goes, "Not all who wander are lost." So, pick your perfect vintage wagon, map your route, and let's make memories!

Picture this: An open road ahead, windows down, tunes blasting, and the sweet scent of freedom filling your nostrils. Sounds pretty darn good, right? Well, buckle up, buttercup, because we're about to share six top tips for planning an adventurous California road trip that'll have you itching to hit the highway.

And if you're wondering how to make your dream trip a reality, look no further than Vintage Surfari Wagons, the California-based Camper Van Rental Service that's been rocking the VW camper rental scene since 2005. But enough chit-chat; let's dive into those tips!

Choose Your Adventure

First things first, decide what kind of California road trip you're after. Are you a beach bum looking to soak up some rays on the golden sands of Coronado City Beach? Or maybe you're a nature nut who wants to explore California’s majestic redwood forests and national parks. Whatever your vibe, plan your route accordingly. And remember, in the immortal words of Confucius, "It's about the journey, not the destination" (okay, maybe he didn't say that, but you get the idea).

2. Map Out Your Must-See Stops

Now that you've got a rough idea of your route, it's time to do some research and pick out the must-see stops along the way. California is bursting at the seams with jaw-dropping sights, quirky attractions, and hidden gems. Make a list, dot them on your map, and get ready to feast your eyes on some seriously awe-inspiring scenery.

We recommend the following must-see stops for your California road trip:

Big Sur - This rugged, mind-blowingly gorgeous stretch of coastline will have you lifting your jaw off the floor.
Yosemite National Park - Jaw-dropping granite cliffs, enchanting waterfalls, and towering sequoias? Yes, please!
Venice Beach - Skateboards, street performers, and boho vibes make this eclectic spot an absolute must-visit.
The Hollywood Sign - Because, come on, you can't go to California and not snap a selfie with this legendary landmark.
Redwood National and State Parks - Wander among the giants and prepare for serious tree-hugging action.
San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge - This iconic, burnt-orange beauty is just begging for a photo op.
Highway 1 - Take the scenic route and experience the stunning coastal views this legendary highway has to offer.

3. Find Your Home on Wheels

Once you've nailed down your route, it's time to find your trusty steed for this epic adventure. And that's where Vintage Surfari Wagons comes in. With our fabulous fleet of iconic VW campers that come with a pop-up roof, a small kitchenette, two fold-out beds, and appliances such as a refrigerator, a stove, and camping gear, we promise you that your California trip will be etched forever in your heart.

Our bay windows, Eurovans, Vanagons, and Mercedes Metris buses are equipped with all the essentials, including a coffee press (because caffeine is life), a fire extinguisher (safety first, folks), and even a campground directory and maps. Talk about setting you up for a groovy journey!

4. Set a (Loose) Schedule

While spontaneity is the spice of life, it's always a good idea to have at least a loose schedule for your road trip. Doing so helps ensure you don't miss out on any must-see attractions or events and also gives you a rough idea of how much time you have for those unplanned detours and adventures. Remember: This is your trip, and if you want to spend an extra day lounging on a beach or hiking in the great outdoors, go for it!

5. Don't Skimp on the Snacks

No road trip is complete without an epic snack stash. That's right, snacks are the unsung heroes of any road trip, keeping hunger at bay and providing a morale boost when the going gets tough (or when you're stuck in San Francisco’s traffic). So stock up on your favorites, and don't forget to throw in some healthy options because you can't live on chips and candies alone (trust us, we've tried).

6. Embrace the Unexpected

The most important tip of all is: Embrace the unexpected. When you're out there on the open road, anything can happen – and that's the beauty of a road trip. You might stumble upon a weird place such as Route 66 Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch that wasn't in any guidebook, or you might find yourself taking part in a spontaneous beach side dance party with a group of new friends. The key is to be open to new experiences and to let the adventure unfold as it will.

Alright, folks! If you're ready to turn these tips into reality, be sure to check out Vintage Surfari Wagons. With our fully-equipped, iconic VW campers and unparalleled customer service, you'll be ready to hit the road and create memories that'll last a lifetime. Now grab your sunglasses, crank up your favorite tunes, and let the adventure begin! Happy trails, fellow road trippers!

12 Tips for Planning a Road Trip with Vintage Surfari Wagons