I took part in a surfcamp in an electric van organized by The Family Van, and I wanted to share my experience with you, so that you can go behind the scenes of this trip!
I chose to go with The Family Van because I was looking for an itinerant surfcamp accessible to beginners. My last surfing experience was when I was 13… water under the bridge! But I was also looking for a dynamic and positive social experience. I was not disappointed! Of course, the fact that the trip was low-carbon was a huge plus! What could be better than spending a superb vacation, while leaving as little trace as possible on the environment we admire so much!
A surfcamp in an electric van means meeting new people, riding tons of waves and having a great time!
At the start, all the vans are wisely parked in the company parking lot, literally a stone’s throw from the station (1 minute on foot). You’ll be greeted by a warm and enthusiastic team, who’ll explain in detail all the secrets of a surfcamp in a electric van. You’ll also be given an adapted wetsuit, which I recommend you try out on the spot. It’s a bit of a hassle, but well worth it if you don’t want to be caught out or end up with a layer full of water after a good wave🙂 . Unpleasant, I’m sure you’ll agree! You’ll also be given your board and all your surfing gear.
As for the vans, they come with everything you need: a brush to chase away the smallest grain of sand (aka your best friend), a nice roll of toilet paper, fresh, clean sheets, all kitchen accessories, as well as salt, pepper, olive oil, coffee, tea and a huge basket full of food to keep you fed all week.
Eventually, you’re handed the key to your van and it’s up to you to make friends with the Malibu, the Uluwatu, the Puerto Escondido, the Imsouane, the Belharra, the Supertubes and the Teahup’oo! All legendary wave names to make you feel like a maxi surfer!
Embark on a surfcamp in an electric van, and may fate be kind to you!
Once you’ve picked up your van, there’s nothing easier than following the road book that’s been sent to you! All the information you need to know is written in it – it’s literally the holy grail.
Our first rendezvous on this electric van surfcamp was a skateboard festival, to get the trip off to a relaxing start! If you’re worried about meeting your new travel partners, don’t be! The people you’re about to meet are all very different, but driven by the same desire as you: to have the maximum amount of fun! And, let’s face it, they want to learn a bit about surfing too ;).
Then all you have to do is let yourself go, from campsite to campsite, from beach to beach and sunset to sunset.
The chosen spots are always calm, and you’ll have the chance to share some good, convivial times. If you’re like me, and like the excitement of a close-knit group, you’ve come to the right place! But if you’re a fan of freedom and independence, you’ll also find something to suit you, because here, everyone is free to do as they please! If you’d like to go off on your own to discover a specific viewpoint, don’t worry, the group will be waiting for you at the next spot. It’s all about enjoying yourself to the full!
There's always plenty to do on a surfcamp in an electric van!
With a surfcamp in an electric van, you’ll soon realize that fun is the name of the game. The Atlantic coast is the perfect place to enjoy your summer evenings, solo or accompanied. Don’t be afraid to suggest things – there’s always someone willing to join you on your adventures.
What’s more, you’ll have surf lessons EVERY day. You can practice at any spot you find along the way, but please listen to the guide’s advice. No one wants to come and get you if you try to snap back on a 3-meter wave, so don’t! We don’t do that!
A surfcamp in an electric van = an itinerant cosy nest.
If you’re scared by the concept of the converted van, don’t panic, I’m a big homebody and I can tell you that vans are very comfortable. The vehicle is full of little storage compartments, but I advise you to travel light! Quite simply, because it’s sunny in the south and you’ll be spending half your day in a bathing suit.
You’ll find everything you need, packed into a van of less than 7 cubic meters. A portable kitchen, which you can move around to cook with friends. A sink that’s more useful for brushing your teeth than washing dishes. Several cupboards that can be used as tote bags, because let’s face it, there’s nothing worse than hearing your vanity rattling around corners. A comfortable comb bed that can be folded away into a cosy bench in no time at all. And finally, an i-tech cockpit where you can store your gear and rock out to your best playlists.
During your electric van surfcamp in south west, you won't have to worry about recharging, believe me!
Everything, and I mean everything, has been designed to make your life easier! Isn’t that nice! The routes are calculated for the autonomy of the vans, so don’t panic, you’ll always arrive safely. Provided you’ve thought about plugging into the mains during your night. A word of advice (from experience): don’t lose the adapter! For the more adventurous, should you nevertheless decide to change tack and take your own route to extend the ride, you’ll find all the recharging stations you need, geolocated on the Chargemap app.
Unforgettable surf sessions, unforgettable memories, warm encounters - you'll find it all at The Family Van!
To conclude this little chronicle, I’d say go for it! With your eyes closed and all sails set! A surfcamp in an electric van at The Family Van is an enriching experience that I’ll be delighted to repeat!
Feel free to browse their website Thefamilyvan.fr to find out more!
Maybe we’ll see you soon on another electric van surfcamp 😉
