ADVENTURE GUIDE

Family Road Trips in the Dutch Countryside

How our camper van adventures changed after kids

When we first bought our camper van, it was just the two of us.
Two adults, minimal gear and a lot of flexibility.

We could drive until something looked interesting, pull over, convert the van to a bed and stay the night. No fixed routes, no rush. That was our version of camper van travel in the early days. Simple and spontaneous.

Now our family road trips with kids look different.

There are child seats, extra bags, and more planning involved. But the camper van has also become something else: a familiar little space for our kids. A place where they know the journey is just as important as where we’re going.

On this particular trip, we were joined by photographer Josan van den Broek (@storiesbyjosan), who captured these moments for us. It felt surprisingly natural, like travelling with an old friend; we felt an instant connection. Easy, relaxed and never staged.

A No-Screen Car Policy

One thing we’ve been intentional about is keeping our cars mostly screen-free for the kids. On long drives through the Dutch countryside, there’s actually a lot to see, like fields, animals, changing weather and small villages.

Sometimes they talk. Sometimes they play with small toys. Sometimes they’re quiet. Sometimes we all sing at the top of our lungs. And we’ve noticed they’re learning that it’s okay to be bored for a bit. That’s usually when their imagination kicks in.

For us, it’s all about letting them experience slow travel as a family, instead of just passing time.

Tips for Camper Van Travel with Kids

Over time, we’ve learned a few small things that make family camper van travel with kids smoother:

  • Keep a small activity bag instead of screens
    Think colouring books, toy cars or simple games
  • Plan flexible stops
    Kids enjoy travel more when they can move and explore
  • Pack easy snacks and water within reach
    It prevents unnecessary stress on longer drives
  • Choose comfortable, durable clothing and shoes
    Road trips often mean impromptu stops on gravel roads, grass or sand

Stopping Is Part of the Trip

We also stop more often now. Not because we have to, but because it makes the trip better.

A random gravel road, a quiet stretch of nature, a patch of grass. We pull over, stretch our legs, and let the kids move. Recently, that meant a spontaneous badminton game next to the van. Nothing fancy, just fresh air and a bit of energy burned off.

These small breaks make family road trips feel less like logistics and more like actual travel.

Same Van, Different Meaning

The camper van that once represented freedom for two now represents shared experiences for four. It’s less about going far and more about noticing what’s around us.

Camper van travel with kids isn’t always easy. It’s slower and a bit unpredictable. But it also forces you to be present. And that’s something we’ve come to value more over time.

Because in the end, what they’ll likely remember isn’t the destination… It’s the drives, the stops and the joy of being on the road together.