I am a new born angler as well. Used to be a competition angler yonks ago. Packed it in when the family arrived.
I concentrate on beach fishing now. The van is perfect.
I have spent a lot of time in working out how to carry a couple of rods and a tripod in the van.
My solution has been to buy two new rods ( any excuse ) 14' 3 piece.
I cut down my tripod to match the length of the rods and they all fit neatly under the back shelf in that little gap down the left hand side.
Previously my two piece rods (2x5'6") had to go inside and caused much consternation. My new rods, stored in the back, allow full use of the van as if they were not there.
I also carry an 8' general purpose spinning rod which breaks down to 5 sections in the overhead locker with a small shoulder bag with reel lures etc.
When I decide to go fishing the kits already packed.
I would recommend Dungeness for a bit of beach fishing. If you join the local angling club (£5 a year) you can park up on the shingle 30 m from the shore.
I also carry an inflatable Kayak and oars under the back seat. Had an amazing trip out this year at Croyde Bay round Baggy Point with the spinning tackle.
I do occasionally go coarse fishing on my local canal but my heart is by the sea. I cannot get into the "carp puddle" stuff at all.
rob