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Road trips have become a popular way for families to vacation during the COVID-19 pandemic, and Piedmont resident Jed Levin has found himself running a business well-suited to the times.
Levin is the co-founder of two van rental companies, Campago and Bandago — luxurious van rental services that offer an alternative to flying.
Bandago was the original company, catering to traveling musicians and other large groups. But some of these vans were eventually reconfigured to become the Campago vans. Levin says there has been “massive” demand for the Campago vans because people want to travel safely after being cooped up for so long during quarantine.
Room to spread out 
The kitchen
Campago campervans come equipped with all camping supplies as well as electronic in-van entertainment. They come with large, comfortable beds and an easy-access kitchen. The Campago can also be taken to all 50 states and Canada, but pick-up and drop-off are only available in California.
“Anyone looking for an adventure, but doesn’t want to spend the night at a hotel or VRBO” would be suited to rent a Campago van, said Levin. A large family traveling together to a specific destination would find Bandago to be a better option.
Rod Adams, a Piedmont parent, went on a three week Campago trip that he really enjoyed. “Our intent was to pick up our daughter Olivia, who is at Boulder in Colorado,” he said. “[Our] stops were scheduled to try to drive no more than half a day on most days, with activities of hiking, golfing, river floating, and biking where it made sense.” He says a good map and having multiple drivers were key to an enjoyable trip.
Levin and his own family of five used Bandago this summer to drive to Bend, Oregon. “The vans had the capacity to hold both surfboards and bikes. There was plenty of room for everyone so there was no arguing over who got what seat.”
You can learn more about Campago and Bandago on their websites.