Safety Tips for Driving a Campervan on BC Highways: What Every Road-Tripper Should Know

There’s something about British Columbia’s open roads that invites adventure. The mountains, oceans, and forests seem to change around every bend, and the freedom of a campervan only amplifies that sense of discovery. But while BC is beautiful, its highways are nothing to take lightly, especially if you’re new to driving a campervan.

Whether you’re coasting along the Sea-to-Sky Highway, weaving through Fraser Canyon, or heading up to the Okanagan in summer heat, each route comes with its own challenges. That’s why understanding the most important safety tips for driving a campervan on BC highways is essential, not just for your comfort, but for your confidence.

The good news? With the right preparation, awareness, and a reliable campervan behind you, BC becomes one of the world’s most rewarding road trip destinations. And if you’re renting from us at Vancouver Westy Rentals, you’ll have support and guidance built into your journey from the moment you pick up your van.

Let’s walk through the most important things you need to know before pulling onto the highway.

Know Your Campervan Before You Go

Before you even start the engine, get familiar with your van. BC highways demand attention, and the more you understand your vehicle, the safer you’ll feel. That means checking the height of your van (for bridges, tunnels, and tree branches), understanding how the brakes respond, and getting comfortable with your mirrors. Campervans require a slightly different sense of space than a sedan.

If you rent from us, this step is easier than you’d expect. We walk you through every system, engine, cabinet, fridge, sink, and stove, so nothing surprises you on the road. Take your time during this orientation. It’s your first layer of safety.

Respect the Terrain: BC Is Not Flat

This is one reason the reference article’s advice on “interstate driving” falls short. BC highways are nothing like long, straight American interstates. Here, you’ll regularly face steep inclines, sharp curves, cliffside roads, changing elevations, and quick transitions from sun to shade.

The key? Let the van do the work. Don’t fight hills. Use lower gears when climbing or descending, especially on routes like the Coquihalla or the Duffey Lake Road. Engine braking gives you better control than tapping the brakes constantly.

When descending long slopes, aim for slow and steady. Your campervan is carrying weight, including your gear, so allow extra time and space. The goal isn’t speed; it’s control.

Stay Weather-Aware at All Times

In BC, the weather isn’t something to casually check. It’s something to monitor. It can change dramatically, even within the same hour. Coastal rain, interior heatwaves, mountain fog, sudden snowfall in shoulder seasons, all are possible.

That’s why one of the most important safety tips for driving a campervan on BC highways is to check road conditions before every major stretch. BC’s Highway Conditions and DriveBC updates are your best friend. Look for reports on visibility, closures, rockfall areas, wildfire smoke, and icy patches.

If you’re renting from us, we often share suggestions based on the season, like which passes are safer early in spring or which routes to avoid during heavy storms. Local insight goes a long way in keeping you comfortable and confident.

Mind the Speed, and Your Space

It’s easy to feel pressure from faster drivers behind you, especially locals who know the highway well. But BC roads aren’t about matching speed, they’re about maintaining safety. Take the pace that feels steady and controlled for you.

Let faster vehicles pass whenever possible, and don’t feel guilty about it. Pull-offs exist for a reason.

And always give your van space. Space to brake. Space to react. Space to breathe. Campervans respond differently from regular vehicles, and extra following distance is your insurance policy.

Watch for Wildlife, Always

Bears, deer, mountain goats, moose, raccoons, BC highways are full of wildlife. Some animals move unpredictably, and hitting one can be dangerous. Dusk and dawn are especially active times, so slow your pace during those hours and scan the sides of the road frequently.

When locals warn you about wildlife, they mean it. It’s not meant to scare you. It’s meant to prepare you.

Use Pullouts and Rest Stops Wisely

Fatigue is a sneaky hazard. Even experienced drivers underestimate how tiring long stretches of focused driving can be, especially on winding routes. BC highways offer plenty of scenic pullouts. Take advantage of them. Stretch, hydrate, enjoy the view, breathe.

This is one place where renting a campervan shines: you always have everything you need within reach. Coffee break? No café required. Need a quick snack? Slide the door, you’re all set.

Prepare for Remote Stretches

Unlike urban highways, some BC routes offer limited gas stations, cell service, and rest stops. The farther north or east you go, the more prepared you need to be.

Before heading into remote areas, make sure you:

• Know your fuel range
• Carry water
• Have a paper or an offline map
• Understand the van’s basic troubleshooting steps

Fortunately, most campervans, like those offered by us, are designed with simplicity in mind. Still, don’t underestimate distance or timing. It’s always better to fuel up early rather than hope the next station has both gas and power.

Familiarize Yourself With BC’s Ferry System

If your journey includes Vancouver Island, Sunshine Coast, or Gulf Islands, you’ll be interacting with the BC Ferries system. Because campervans are taller and longer than regular cars, you’ll want to check the height and length limits before boarding.

Reservations are strongly recommended in the summer months. Showing up without one could mean missing multiple sailings. And trust us, arriving early is far more relaxing than rushing to the terminal.

Trust Local Knowledge, It Matters

One thing travelers consistently underestimate is how valuable local knowledge can be. Google Maps doesn’t warn you about sudden fog pockets, tight switchbacks, wildlife migration paths, or poorly lit logging roads. Locals know all this.

This is why many renters appreciate Vancouver Westy Rentals. They’re Vancouver-based, BC-savvy, and deeply familiar with where their vans perform best. They can suggest alternate routes, safer scenic roads, and smarter ways to structure your travel days.

Sometimes, a five-minute conversation can save you hours of stress.

Conclusion

Driving in BC is not just an experience, it’s a privilege. With its stunning routes and diverse landscapes, the province invites you to explore carefully, thoughtfully, and confidently. And by following key safety tips for driving a campervan on BC highways, you’re setting yourself up for a trip that’s not only beautiful but safe and enjoyable.

Take your time. Check the weather. Learn your van. Respect the terrain. Trust your instincts. And when in doubt, ask the experts, especially if you’re renting from Vancouver Westy Rentals, where safety and support are built right into the experience.

When you combine mindful driving with BC’s natural magic, you’re in for a road trip you’ll talk about for years.