Waiting on Wheels: A Campervan Delay & a Family Camping Bell Tent Surprise

We’ve been counting down the days for our brand new Citroën Holidays campervan to arrive — and now we’re nearly four weeks past the expected delivery date. To say we were excited is an understatement. We had a family camping weekend all planned for the past weekend: two grown-ups, one very enthusiastic five-year-old, and a three-year-old who’s convinced camping means unlimited snacks and muddy puddles.

But with no van in sight, we had a choice: cancel the trip or get creative. So we dusted off our trusty Sussex bell tent, similar to this bell tent here, packed up the car, and headed out anyway — and honestly? It turned out to be just what we needed.

Our Sussex Bell Tent in action

Our campsite was actually a friends field so we were totally off grid and it  was absolutely beautiful. Peaceful, green, and full of space for the kids to run wild. We got lucky with the weather, it was perfect, and the bell tent felt like a little canvas sanctuary. Best of all, we got to test out our new MonsterMat from Zempire with a memory foam inner and inflatable outer its the perfect combo — and I can confidently say it was the most comfortable night’s sleep I’ve ever had camping. No sore hips, no tossing and turning (other than the fidgety 3 year old who found his way into the bed!), just blissful rest under the stars.

Making amazing family memories

We got to test out some of our other purchases too that we got for the campervan and so far everything seems great… Foldable collapsible silicone colander – loved this for draining the kids pasta, weighs nothing and takes up minimal space. Incognito Insect Repellent – worked perfectly to keep the midgies, mozzies and horseflies at bay. Caudalie Vinosun SPF 50 Spray – simply the best family sunscreen I can find, not sticky, absorbs quickly and protects brilliantly. Stainless steel mixing bowl – not a huge fan of plastic I wanted to trial this, lightweight and versatile we used it to serve salads, wash fruit and make pancake batter. Zempire MonsterMat Twin – the best camping mattress I have ever come across and hopefully will work well on our rock and roll bed when we get our camper. Folding camping picnic table and chairs – this was a big hit with adults and kids, we loved sitting at this to eat, do colouring or food prep, a great addition to our kit.

Enjoying our new multi functional bench table and chairs

While we were disappointed not to be rolling in with our campervan just yet, the weekend reminded us why we love this kind of travel: the fresh air, the freedom, the family time. And when our van finally arrives, we’ll be ready for even more adventures — with a few bell tent weekends still in the mix. Hopefully next stop…France in the van!!

Here’s to the journey, however it unfolds.