Traveling by campervan is one of the most liberating ways to discover a place. It’s a style of travel that gives you the freedom to change your plans as you go, wake up in front of the ocean, chase sunsets without a timetable, and enjoy the slow, simple pleasure of life on the road. When you combine that lifestyle with the dramatic landscapes and rich culture of Tenerife, the experience becomes even more memorable. At My Little Camper Tenerife, we welcome travellers from all over the world, many of whom are trying van life for the first time. Over the years, we’ve learned exactly what makes a campervan holiday smooth, comfortable, and truly joyful. This guide brings together our best tips and insights so you can prepare confidently for your adventure, understand what’s unique about travelling by campervan in Tenerife, and know what to pack for the island’s changing climates and landscapes.
What you need to know before starting your adventure?
Preparing for a campervan trip starts way before turning the engine on. The first essential step is planning your route, not in a rigid way that eliminates spontaneity, but in a way that gives you a general sense of direction and helps you structure the days ahead. The beauty of van life lies in flexibility, yet having an outline of your must-see stops, preferred viewpoints, hiking areas, or beaches allows you to balance adventure with ease. If you are new to campervan travel, think of your journey in “zones” rather than strict schedules. On Tenerife, this approach works perfectly because the island is small yet full of contrasts.
Once you arrive on Tenerife, the island quickly reveals why campervan travel here is unique. Within minutes you can transition from black-sand beaches to volcanic craters, from pine forests to tropical banana fields, from dramatic cliff roads to quiet desert-like plains at the base of Teide. Yet another characteristic of Tenerife is its microclimates. The weather can vary dramatically between regions: while the south stays warm and sunny most of the year, the north can be cooler and cloudier, and the mountains are much colder. Understanding the microclimates helps you pack better and plan your days more efficiently.
Packing smart
Packing is another essential part of preparation. One of the most common mistakes travellers make, especially first-timers, is bringing way too much. Our campervans are cozy spaces designed for simplicity, and the more efficiently you pack, the more comfortable your stay will be. For most general campervan trips, it’s smart to pack compact clothing, practical toiletries, comfortable shoes, and only the electronics you truly need. The advantage of renting with My Little Camper Tenerife is that many items are already included: bedding, kitchen equipment, camping chairs, a table, and small but thoughtful items that make life on the road easier.
Packing specifically for Tenerife requires a little thought because of the island’s variety of climates. Layers are key! You may spend the day in a T-shirt at the beach, but if you drive to Teide for sunset, you will need long trousers, a warm jacket, and perhaps even a hat. The UV index is high even on cloudy days, so sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and plenty of drinkable water are essential.
Many travellers ask what exactly they should pack for a campervan holiday in Tenerife. The key is choosing versatile items: swimwear for the beaches, comfortable outfits for exploring towns, warm layers for high-altitude viewpoints, and good walking shoes for hikes. Bring simple toiletries, sunscreen, personal medications, and your favourite small comforts. For outdoor life, a daypack, water bottle, and maybe a beach blanket are also useful. Technology should be minimal, just a phone, charger, and maybe a camera. Trust us, the views here will pull your eyes away from your screen more often than you think.
What to pack for a campervan holiday on Tenerife?
New to campervan travel? You’re in good hands. To make things easier and help you feel fully prepared, we’ve created a clear, practical checklist with all the essentials you’ll want to bring for your Tenerife road trip. It covers everything—from the basics like clothing and sunscreen to those handy little extras that make van life feel even more comfortable and stress-free. Whether you’re packing for beaches, mountain viewpoints, or long scenic drives, this guide will walk you through it all. It’s the perfect tool to help you pack with confidence, avoid overpacking, and start your adventure feeling organized, relaxed, and excited for the journey ahead.
Food preparation
When it comes to food, keep things simple as well. Tenerife has supermarkets in nearly every town, so there’s no need to overstock before you begin your journey. Quick meals like pasta, wraps, salads, and fresh fruits and vegetables work perfectly for van life. Always bring some snacks (nuts, fruit, crackers, energy bars, or anything easy to carry) for long drives, coastal walks, or hikes. Keeping reusable containers or bags is extremely helpful for leftovers, picnics, or storing fresh produce, and it’s a great way to stay environmentally friendly while travelling. Enjoying fresh coffee in the morning with an ocean view or cooking dinner at sunset is part of the magic, so pack foods that allow you to enjoy those moments without any complications.
Tenerife campervan Do's and Don'ts
To keep your journey smooth, a few Tenerife-specific do’s and don’ts are helpful. Campervan travel on the island is easy and enjoyable, but being aware of local customs, driving conditions, and environmental rules will make everything even better. These small tips ensure you experience Tenerife responsibly while feeling confident and relaxed on the road.
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Do explore beyond the tourist areas,
Do talk to locals, support small businesses, and try local food,
Do take care of the nature you explore,
Do be prepared for changing weather and enjoy the variety it brings.
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Don’t wild camp in non-permitted areas,
Don’t leave any rubbish behind,
Don’t rush through mountain roads,
Don’t underestimate the cold temperatures near Teide.
Our final advice:)
If this is your first campervan trip, the best advice we can give is to embrace simplicity. Keep your plans flexible, stay organized with small bags or boxes, and don’t worry too much about creating the perfect itinerary. Campervan travel is not about rushing from one sight to the next. It’s about slowing down, following your instincts, and enjoying moments offline.
