Hi
I'm about to become a "grey nomad" but i really need to get some idea of the "must haves" and the "make life more comfortable haves". I'll be travelling in a campervan by myself so I'm a bit aprehensive about that so any hints on going solo would also help.

Everyone has a different list. We are on the road for 8-9 months at a time and our lis does NOT include radio, or TV. We find that we have no need for them. We do like our lap top (with NextG wireless modem and colour printer) and didgital camera though! We burn CDs and post them home along with personalised postcards that we produce ourselves. Start with nothing that you think you can live without and write your own list as you go. If you don't get it right, it doesn't matter, besides, there are shops along the way if you make a BIG mistake, but that is unlikely.

You mentioned that you are travelling in a campervan.  My advice would be to make sure you bring an outside table and chair and perhaps a bit of shadecloth to put on the ground under your awning to make your outside space more 'homely'.  We were amazed by how much time we spent sitting outside the van (even though we had a lovely table inside too).  Sitting outside to read, eat and even listen to the radio is also a great way to meet people as everyone always stops for a chat as they walk past.

Thanks to Peter n Margaret and also to speedy sue for their helpful hints. I'm madly reading back copies of Caravan World and jotting down ideas from that so by the time I'm ready to head off I should be right.

Ok I just joined this site a few minutes ago, so not sure of protocol yet.  My husband & I haven't been on long trips yet, but we get away in our pop up van as often as possible, and are now looking at taking off on the long awaited journey soon.  I do have a suggestion though, if you get a chance to "practice" a bit before you go, that will help. That's what we have been doing for the past 5 or so years.  We go away for a couple of weeks at a time, and after each trip there is always a list of "take out of van" and "add to van".  Just a thought.  Good Luck!
Shelley