We interviewed 7 campervan bloggers that you should be following. In this series, we’ll be going over their best tips for places to go, things to do, and what to eat along the way!
Kelly Lacy
Kelly of the Awkward Tourist is more than just a solo travel aficionado. A flight attendant and blogger, Kelly is part of a travel super-duo with her husband Kevin, making the two of them the Awkward Tourists. Having met her husband in Alaska, spent a semester at sea, and visited more than 30 countries, Kelly is an expert on all things travel, and her photographer husband makes them look their best while they do it. When they aren’t on the move, they’re based in Southern California.
What is your all-time favorite place to campervan in the US?
My all-time favorite place to camper van in the US is Yellowstone. I love camping there but being in a van makes it super comfortable, and when you’re out looking for wildlife, you can stop wherever you want to make lunch.
What spot is on your bucket list to campervan in the US?
I would love to camper van in southern Utah. Waking up to such incredible views is definitely on my bucket list!
What is your go-to campervan meal?
Great camper van meals are always simple, anything that can be made with 2 pots/pans or less. Pasta with sauteed veggies is a great one, followed by lots of different types of sandwiches. The simpler, the better!
What is the top tip you’d give to people who don’t campervan often or are headed out on their first trip?
My tips for someone going on their first camper van trip are staying organized and bringing a fly swatter! It’s super annoying when flies get in the van, and it’s hard to get them out!
Best campervan trips for couples
In honor of one of the only duo on this list, here are a couple of couple’s getaways inspired by Kelly’s favorite places!
Cedar City, Utah
Located near Zion National Park and Dixie National Forest is a great couple’s camping destination. This southwestern Utah town offers more than just the seasonal Shakespeare festival (although that is a big draw)! Often referred to as a festival town, this little slice of southern Utah offers interesting activities no matter what time of year you retreat to it.
To relax, head to the I/G winery for dinner and a wine tasting. Sourcing west coast and desert southwest grapes, no couple’s getaway list would be complete without a local boutique winery. Support this local business in the heart of Cedar City and relax after your campervan trip into town. If you’re still hungry afterward, head to The French Spot for dessert.
If you feel like you need to hit the trails, you’re in one of the best places in the world to do so! Southwest Utah is known for its parks, and Cedar City is close to Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and Dixie National Forest. Not to be overshadowed, though, is Cedar Breaks National Monument. While it would be easy for a national monument to be overshadowed by the national parks in proximity, Cedar Breaks holds its own with its breathtaking desert rock formations and unbelievable sunsets. The open sky of southern Utah makes for great stargazing, especially if you’re out camping.
The Cedar Breaks National Monument is absolutely worth exploring! If you’re interested in stretching your legs, try out the Spectra Point Trail. At a bit under four miles, this popular trail is a surmountable challenge for most visitors. If that sounds like more than you’re ready for, the Alpine Pond trail is a bit less trafficked and only 2.2 miles long.
If you want to camp in Cedar Breaks, the closest established campground is the Point Supreme campground.
Yellowstone National Park
While the awe-inspiring Yellowstone views are enough to find love in, there are plenty of fun spots for couples to check out in the Yellowstone area.
You might have guessed it, but a fun couple’s activity can just be taking some time to relax in the hot springs. If you made the campervan trip from southern Utah to Yellowstone, you’ll have earned the break. There is one hot spring in the park itself; you can take a dip in Mammoth Hot Springs. Located near the Boiling River, this one can get pretty crowded so arrive early if you can to secure a more secluded spot.
If you’re camping, you’ll get the opportunity to sleep under the stars. If you plan to spend the night in your campervan, you’ll want to make sure you get outside and don’t miss them! You can get a private guided tour through one of the Yellowstone local tour companies, but if you’re surefooted and confident, you can strike out on your own with a map and a headlamp. Take a blanket and some dessert with you if you have a free hand!
If at least one of you is a photographer, you’ll want to get into Yellowstone’s backcountry, even if just for a day hike. Shorter hikes can take you to hot springs like the Grand Prismatic hike or the Old Faithful Observation Point loop. Couples looking for more of a hiking challenge will appreciate the Avalanche Peak trail or the classic Yellowstone option, North Rim Trail that hits Yellowstone Falls, Crystal Falls, and Inspiration Point.
If you’re looking for a place to rest at the end of the day and don’t want to stay in the campervan, you can opt for the popular and centrally located Madison campground. If you want to stay by the water or are look for something a bit less populated, the Lewis Lake campground will serve you well.
Good luck on your travels!
Thanks to Kelly for taking the time to sit down with us! If you’re interested in learning more about Kelly and her work, you can check out her youtube channel, blog, or follow her on Instagram!
Check out the other interviews in this series!
Interview Series: The Escape Artists—Sydney and Davis
Interview Series: Ben Leo Davis
Interview Series: Jose Mostajo
Interview Series: Fame is a Fickle Food—Soha
About the Author
Bastian Graf
Bastian is the Sales & Marketing Manager here at Travellers Autobarn. He holds a Master of Commerce in Marketing and International Business Management, and 20+ years experience in campervan hire, road trips and travel.