Ah, the Volkswagen campervan—an icon of the open road and the spiritual symbol of freedom for generations of wanderers, surfers, and anyone who has ever entertained the notion of telling their boss to stuff it and head off into the sunset. It’s more than just a vehicle; it’s a lifestyle, a cult classic on wheels, and quite possibly the only thing with a roof that looks better with rust.
But let’s talk practicality because, behind those charming, rounded lines and the nostalgic promise of adventure, there lies a pressing question: when you’re miles from civilisation, how on earth are you supposed to get a decent cup of tea? The VW campervan, in its infinite wisdom—or perhaps, the designers’ fortuitous lack of foresight—often comes equipped with a solution: the onboard water tank.
Now, before you get too excited, let me manage your expectations. We’re not talking about the type of technology you’d find on the International Space Station. No, this is more akin to a glorified jerrycan, tucked away in a cupboard, making sure you don’t expire of thirst while you wait for the rain to stop. In some models, you’ll find a proper plumbed-in setup, with pumps, taps, and enough sophistication to make you feel like a suburban housewife in the middle of nowhere. In others, it’s more rudimentary, perhaps just a place to stash a bottle or two.
Capacity & Time
VW Campervan Model | Fresh Water Tank Capacity | Waste Water Tank Capacity | Estimated Duration (Typical Usage) |
---|---|---|---|
VW California (Modern) | 30 liters (8 gallons) | 30 liters (8 gallons) | 2-3 days for two people |
VW Transporter (T5/T6) Conversions | 10-50 liters (2.5-13 gallons) | Varies based on conversion | 1-7 days for two people (depending on capacity) |
Classic VW Campervans (e.g., VW T2, T3) | 10-20 liters (2.5-5 gallons) | Varies based on customisation | 1-2 days for two people |
Is it sophisticated? Not particularly. Is it life-saving? It very well might be. Because whether you’re parked up in a remote Scottish glen or wedged into a tiny space in Cornwall, that water tank could be the difference between sipping on a hot drink or bemoaning your life choices as you choke down another mouthful of dust.
So, while the VW campervan may not come with a wine cellar or a sommelier, it does cater to one very basic human need—keeping you hydrated enough to enjoy the road, and, more importantly, the journey ahead.
Recommendations For Extra Drinking Storage
So, you’ve got your VW campervan, and you’re ready to hit the open road, but there’s just one tiny problem—where on earth are you going to store enough drinking water to keep you from turning into a dehydrated husk somewhere off the beaten track? Fear not, because there’s a simple solution: portable water storage containers, the unsung heroes of campervan life.
10-litre water storage
Now, when it comes to storing water in your VW, you’ve got a few options. The most common sizes are 10-litre, 20-litre, and 25-litre containers, each with their own pros and cons. Let’s start with the 10-litre. This is the smallest of the bunch, making it ideal for those who don’t want to lug around a bulky tank every time they fancy a cup of tea. It’s compact, easy to carry, and fits nicely in the snug corners of your van. Perfect for solo adventurers or weekend getaways when you don’t need gallons of water. But if you’re planning a longer trip or bringing along a few mates, you’ll find that 10 litres won’t last long, especially if you’re using it for washing up, cooking, and—God forbid—a bit of a shower.
20-litre water storage
Step up to the 20-litre container, and things start to get interesting. This size strikes a decent balance between capacity and convenience. It’s still manageable enough to move around, but holds double the water, giving you enough to last a few days before you need to think about refilling. For most people, this is the sweet spot—plenty of water, but not so much that you’re sacrificing precious space in your camper.
25-litre water storage
And then there’s the 25-litre option. This one is for the serious camper, the kind who laughs in the face of scarcity and refuses to go without their creature comforts. It’s big, bold, and has the capacity to keep you hydrated, well-fed, and clean even on extended trips. The downside? It’s heavy. Lugging it around could be a bit of a workout, and finding the perfect spot in your van might require some Tetris-level planning.
So, which one is the best for your beloved VW? If you ask me, I’d say the 20-litre container hits the Goldilocks zone—just right. It gives you enough water to be practical for a couple of days without being an unwieldy beast to move around. Plus, you’ll still have room for all the other essentials, like your surfboard, portable barbecue, and, of course, the obligatory box of emergency biscuits.
But here’s the kicker: these water containers aren’t just big bottles. No, they come with easy-to-use tap systems, meaning you can have a steady flow of water at the twist of a handle. It’s perfect for camper enthusiasts who appreciate both convenience and practicality. Whether you’re washing dishes, filling up the kettle, or giving yourself a quick rinse, these taps make life on the road that much easier.
In short, when you’re out there living the dream in your VW campervan, a 20-litre water container with a built-in tap is your best bet. It’s the perfect blend of capacity, convenience, and ease of use—keeping you well-hydrated and ready for whatever adventure lies around the next bend.