I’ll say it right away: I am not a van life girly. I like a beautiful hotel lobby, fresh sheets, good lighting, and all those nice and comfortable amenities. But occasionally, travel surprises you in the best way, and reminds you that trying something new can be fun… even if it includes figuring out how to function inside a camper van.
Recently on Easter weekend, Sebastian and I decided to try something completely different: a road trip in a Roadsurfer camper van on our way to Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. Roadsurfer, a European-based camper van company that recently expanded into the United States, focuses on compact vans designed for flexibility, comfort, and adventure. And, when I received the email from Roadsurfer offering me to take on the challenge of giving me one to try out for a quick trip with my husband, I agreed. Why not? It’s ok to step out of your comfort zone. We picked up our Liberty Lodge model in Miami, curious to see how this whole van life experience would play out, especially for someone like me who usually gravitates toward boutique hotels.
Originally, we planned to explore multiple campgrounds before arriving at Disney, but Easter weekend quickly reminded us just how popular camping has become. Many campgrounds were completely full, which meant our journey became more about the drive itself, and honestly, that ended up being part of the fun.
We made several stops along the coast, including Sebastian Beach, where the ocean breeze immediately made the slower pace feel worth it. There’s something about stepping out of a camper van that feels different from stepping out of a regular car, especially when you are surrounded by the ocean and cool breeze.
Cocoa Beach gave us another chance to stretch our legs and enjoy the view, watching surfers and taking in the relaxed atmosphere that makes Florida’s coastline so easy to love. Melbourne was another great stop, adding a small-town feel to the trip and reminding us that sometimes the best travel moments happen between destinations.
Inside the Liberty Lodge, I was honestly surprised by how efficient everything felt. The layout includes a sleeping space, compact kitchenette, storage, and seating areas that easily adjust depending on what you need. It felt clean, practical, and much more comfortable than I expected. While I will probably always lean toward hotels, I can absolutely appreciate how this kind of travel allows you to slow down and experience the journey differently.
Sebastian had the best time watching me fully commit to the experience. He laughed as I carefully organized our things, figured out how everything worked, and proudly embraced being a total trooper throughout the trip. There is something fun about doing something outside of your comfort zone together, it makes the memories even better. And I promise you that this is one experience that my husband won’t forget, with his wife being a total fan of all of the comforts of home and a hotel room, trying to understand how to organize herself in a van meant to be a home on its own.
Arriving at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground gave the entire experience a completely new layer. Fort Wilderness has its own loyal following, with campers who return year after year, decorating their sites and creating a welcoming atmosphere that feels both relaxed and uniquely Disney.
Driving in with the Roadsurfer made us feel like we were experiencing Disney from a totally different perspective. And we loved it and were happy to have been able to find two nights during such a busy weekend to enjoy the area. Campers greeted us, conversations started naturally, and there was an easy sense of connection between people who clearly love this style of travel. It felt like discovering another side of the Disney experience, and it’s one that feels quieter, slower, and surprisingly personal.
Waking up surrounded by trees, hearing nature, and still being close to the parks created a balance that felt refreshing. Instead of heading back to a traditional hotel room, we returned to our own little space on wheels, which made the entire trip feel a bit more immersive.
Roadsurfer’s arrival in the U.S. adds an interesting new option for travelers looking for flexibility without fully committing to traditional RV life.
The company has built a strong following in Europe thanks to its thoughtfully designed vans that combine convenience with a sense of adventure. Having a Miami pick-up location makes it especially appealing for Florida road trips and weekend escapes.
While I still consider myself more of a hotel traveler, I genuinely enjoyed the experience and would absolutely recommend it for certain types of trips. It is perfect for travelers looking for something different, couples wanting a memorable getaway, or even friends planning a fun and slightly adventurous weekend.
Will I suddenly become a full-time van life person? Probably not. But am I glad I tried it? Definitely. And honestly, I would do it again, especially with friends, for a festival weekend, or another Disney visit.
Sometimes the best travel experiences are the ones that gently push you outside your routine and remind you that there is more than one way to enjoy the journey.
And for one Easter weekend, this not-so-van-life girly got to see the road, and Disney, from a completely new point of view.
For more information on Roadsurfer Camper Vans and its available vans and pickup locations visit roadsurfer.com.
