Whether you’re going for a weekend, or a weeks-long trip, there are some items that you can ill afford to forget when going fishing in your van.
Here we take a look at the items you should be taking to make your life easier while on a fishing trip and to save you time so you can just sit back and enjoy the peace and quiet whilst you catch a new personal best.
Why use a van to go fishing?
If you’ve never used a van to go fishing before, you may be wondering why people opt to use this mode of transport.
Simply put, a fishing van provides you with a mobile base for all your fishing gear without you needing to empty the contents of your car before your trip. It’s a real time and space saver as you’ll be able to keep all your supplies in the van rather than in your home.
Finishing van conversions are also extremely popular, as you can customise it to suit your needs. Popular additions are:
- A kitchen: You can add a hob and sink to your van for cooking what you’ve caught.
- A heating system: You may add heaters to stay warm during the colder months.
- Power: You can add solar panels or split charging options to your van.
- Running water: You can add running water so you can stay hydrated.
- A storage unit: You can create a secure storage unit for your fishing gear.
Best items to take on your fishing trip
Apart from the obvious items such as bait, rods and food for yourself, we’ve put together a list of some of the items you should consider taking on your next fishing trip, whether it’s to Lake Windermere, the Peak District, Angler’s Paradise or anywhere else.
Tackle box, tools, tapes and spare fixings
A toolset and spare fixings can come in very handy when going on a fishing trip, as you never know what may need fixing. It could be that something inside your converted fishing van needs fixing such as a cupboard.
It’s also worth taking a well-stocked tackle box so your fishing gear is organised. Investing in a tackle box with multiple compartments will keep your lures, hooks, sinkers, and other tackles organised and easily accessible.
Torch and batteries
This may seem like we’re stating the obvious, but you’d be surprised how many anglers go on a trip without a torch as it’s such an easy item to overlook when packing your van. And whilst we’re on the subject, it’s also worth taking backups and lots of batteries in case they die out.
Tarpaulin
Whilst you may be sleeping in your van, some opt to still take a tent with them, which means tarpaulin is a must for any angler. Putting this down on the floor will not only keep your tent’s floor dry during the rainy months, it’s also handy for protecting open loads of vans.
You can use it as a shelter and an extension from your van to your tent to ensure you don’t get wet in the winter.
First aid kit
Whilst fishing is not a dangerous past-time, you can still get hurt, especially if a hook or a knife you’re using cuts you. You will need to be treated and disinfect the area to prevent serious issues.
We recommend you take; Bandages, plasters, sterile gauze, cleaning alcohol, scissors, tweezers, paracetamol, aloe for burns and antihistamines. You can also include suncream or SPF protection for sunnier fishing trips.
Waterproof matches and firestarter
These are especially handy during the winter months. Just because the weather is awful, doesn’t mean you need to stop fishing, and having waterproof matches and a firestarter just makes life so much easier than trying to whittle in the pouring rain.
Apple cider vinegar and spray bottle
This may seem like the strangest item on our list, but believe us this will be a game changer for you.
A spray bottle filled with apple cider vinegar and water equally is useful for cleaning any product, both inside and outside the van, and helps freshen the air from unwanted smells.
Comfortable folding chair (honourable mention to a hammock)
And last, but by no means least, a comfortable chair is a must for each member that’s part of the fishing trip. Whether you’re kicking back at the end of the day around a fire eating some food, or you’re waiting to catch your next fish, a comfortable portable folding chair is an absolute must.
Van insurance you can trust
If you do opt for a fishing van, you’ll want the right insurance. By talking to an insurance specialist you can ensure you’re answering all the questions correctly, and have someone on your side to get the best and most affordable cover.
Finding an insurance company that offers good deals on van insurance can be difficult, especially ones that take your individual needs into account.
At Adrian Flux, we offer van insurance tailored to you, providing you with the peace of mind that your vehicle is covered. Call us on 0800 369 8590 or book a callback at a time that suits you.
