Three Easy Cocktails (and Mocktails) for Summer Caravan Camping

There’s something about warm sun, dusty tracks, and settling into camp with your caravan that makes a cold drink taste even better. When the sun dips and the chairs come out, these simple drinks are easy to make, easy to pack for, and perfect for summer caravan trips anywhere in Australia.

No fancy tools required. Just good ingredients and a relaxed pace.

Campfire Spritz

Cocktail version
Light, refreshing, and ideal for hot afternoons that roll into golden evenings.

You’ll need

• Prosecco or sparkling wine
• Aperol or similar aperitif
• Soda water
• Orange slices

How to make it
Fill a cup with ice, add a splash of Aperol, top with prosecco and a dash of soda. Garnish with an orange slice.

Mocktail version
Swap prosecco for sparkling mineral water and Aperol for a splash of orange juice or non-alcoholic aperitif. Finish with soda and an orange slice.

Why it works for camping
Easy to scale up or down and just as refreshing without alcohol. Perfect for kicking back after a day on the tracks or by your campsite with your caravan nearby.

Bush Lemon & Gin

Cocktail version
Crisp, simple, and made for sitting back under the awning.

You’ll need

• Gin
• Lemonade or soda water
• Fresh lemon (optional)

How to make it
Add ice to your cup, pour in a measure of gin, and top with lemonade or soda. Squeeze in fresh lemon if you’ve got it handy.

Mocktail version
Mix lemonade with a splash of ginger beer or sparkling water, add a squeeze of fresh lemon and a few mint leaves if you’ve got them. Optional: a dash of non-alcoholic bitters for extra flavour.

Why it works for camping
Tangy, fizzy, and perfect for kicking back after a long day on the tracks, whether you choose the cocktail version or keep it alcohol-free.

Watermelon Camp Cooler

Cocktail version
Perfect for peak summer days when you want something cold and light.

You’ll need

• Vodka
• Fresh watermelon
• Lime juice

How to make it
Roughly mash watermelon in a cup, add ice, a splash of vodka, and a squeeze of lime. Stir and sip slowly.

Mocktail version
Mash watermelon with ice and lime juice, then top with soda water for a refreshing cooler.

Why it works for camping
Hydrating, fresh, and a top way to cool down after a scorching day out at your campsite with the caravan packed up and ready for the next stop.

Camping Tip

Pre-cut fruit, pack a small knife and board, and keep things simple. Camping drinks should feel easy, not like hard work.

Because summer caravan camping is about slowing down, sharing a laugh, and enjoying the moment…one cold drink at a time.