SUP Board Road Trip With a Motorhome

Stand-up paddling and camping are the perfect combinations for an active camping holiday in a motorhome. It is the most flexible and convenient way to travel from lakes and rivers to bays and coasts, discovering the most beautiful waters all over Europe and America. We put together our top tips for your SUP board road trip, from what to pack to which board works best for travelling below.

7 Q & As About Stand Up Paddling Holidays With a Motorhome

Stand-up paddling road trips with a motorhome can be adventurous and spontaneous, but equally relaxing and comfortable. It requires some planning and preparation at the beginning, but you will reap the rewards later. You can paddle over wild waters in light swells or relax under the sun on glassy lakes. Prepare for the SUP trip, and look forward to floating through your stand-up paddling holiday.

So that you can combine camping and paddling in the best possible way and really enjoy your time on the road trip, we have summarised the most important tips and tricks for your SUP board road trip with a motorhome here.

Can You Stand-UP Paddle Everywhere?

It is best to always best to check the lake or the bay before you set off on your paddle because some areas are protected waters, and no inflatable or hard boards can access the water. But in general, anyone can paddle on calm water, and lakes are often the ideal spot for every level. The better you are on the board, the more possibilities for paddling on all types of water. Experienced paddlers like to have fun on the SUP board on rivers or even in the waves in the ocean. In any case, always check the currents in lakes, rivers and the sea so that you don’t get caught out and drift away with your SUP board. It’s best to get a guidebook with paddling routes or research paddling routes online that suit your SUP skills.

Is It Possible to Wild Camp by the Lake?

That depends on where you are. Every country, and even local regions, has its own rules about wild camping in forests and by lakes. If it is allowed, it’s always worth looking for campsites near bodies of water. There are very beautiful spots by the sea, on wide, calm rivers and on picturesque lakes that even offer paddle boards for hire or courses.

→ Tip: The most beautiful SUP destinations for your motorhome road trip in Europe

Is Stand Up Paddling Dangerous?

SUP is not an extreme sport, but it is not completely safe either. If you follow a few simple basic rules, nothing can really happen to you. Before you start paddling, check the weather, wind and current again. Finally, when you’re on the water, wear a life jacket, attach a leash to both your leg and the board, always wear sunscreen and, on hot days, protect your head with a hat, wear a UV shirt, bring enough water and snacks in a dry bag and securely attach all your equipment to the board. Electronic devices, such as mobile phones and cameras, should also be placed in a waterproof bag and securely fastened to the SUP board.

Which SUP Board Is Better For Travelling in a Motorhome?

There are two types of Stand Up Paddleboards: Inflatable SUP boards and rigid hard boards. Both types come in different lengths and are available with a wider or narrower cut. While the hard boards are more stable in the water and easier to steer, the soft, inflatable boards are easier to transport in the camper van.

Therefore the inflatable Stand Up Paddleboards is the more practical option for travelling in a motorhome. They are quick and easy to stow in the camper and can be inflated again just as quickly if necessary. The pump and other accessories for the inflatable SUP can conveniently fit in a backpack. If you still prefer to travel with a hardboard, it’s best to book a roof rack to transport it.

When determining the length and width of your board, the following applies. The wider the board, the safer you are on the water. The narrower the board, the more manoeuvrable it is. Shortboards are particularly manoeuvrable and can be used for surfing waves. Medium-length boards are real all-rounders and take up less space in the motorhome, while longboards are ideal for paddling fast and covering long distances.

And the best part about a SUP road trip with a motorhome? You can easily combine your favourite outdoor activities and spots with SUPing. For example, you can go hiking and SUPing or do yoga on the SUP board.