For a first trip I’d recommend booking ahead. Then you can relax and enjoy the drive and not be worrying about getting in early to get a bay, or where to try next if somewhere is full.
When you check in ask which way you should face to park, or park with your door facing the same way as others in your line. If you are struggling with reversing, you might be able to pick a different bay if you let them know you’re new and green.
There is a lot of community spirit and people will help out if you have questions. Join a dedicated forum too. It’s very useful to be able to pop online and get advice and encouragement.
It probably doesn’t need saying but clean up after yourself. No trace is the general expectation- don’t leave rubbish, check your bay before you leave and don’t damage the grass, especially with bbqs. Even more important if you wildcamp.
Different campsites have different rules re noise, what type of bbqs/fires are permitted etc. Don’t assume they’re all the same.
Pick up a spirit level (the t shaped ones) and put it over the fridge when you park. It’s important to keep gas fridges level. Use chucks to level your wheels. You can quickly figure out which wheel to put the chuck under by tilting the spirit level.
Also wind down the “legs” at the back. It’s useful to have some short planks of wood to slide under for a firm base. That will make the van feel much firmer and a lot more comfortable.
If you don’t have windscreen covers, rig up a blanket between you and the windscreen as there can be a bit of a cold spot at the front.
It’s a brilliant way to holiday with dc. Hope you enjoy it and have lots of fun!