The Actual Costs of Starting Vanlife

Vanlife has captured the imagination of many adventurers, offering a unique blend of freedom, mobility, and simplicity. However, like any lifestyle change, beginning vanlife requires careful planning, especially when it comes to costs. I can say, after building two vans myself, estimating the costs can be tricky. So, I put this article together, based on my last eight years of living vanlife to help you get a realistic idea of what it costs to start living vanlife.

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You Can Vanlife In Alaska and Here's What You Should Do

So, you want to vanlife the Last Frontier? Well, Alaska isn’t for the faint of heart, but it does offers vanlifers unparalleled opportunities to experience a rugged landscapes, see an abundance of wildlife, and enjoy remote beauty unlike anywhere else in North America. From the iconic Denali National Park to the breathtaking Kenai Peninsula, Alaska’s vast and varied terrain provides endless opportunities for exploration and connection with nature. Whether you're chasing the Midnight Sun in the summer or witnessing the magic of the Northern Lights in the fall, vanlife in Alaska promises unforgettable experiences for those seeking freedom and adventure off the beaten path.

So, longstory short, yes, you can vanlife Alaska. The real question is what do you want to experience while vanlifing in Alaska?

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Starting Vanlife is Hard Enough, But Developing a Routine Will Make It Easier

Starting vanlife is an exciting but challenging adventure. Adjusting to life on the road takes time, and developing a routine can help make the transition smoother. While flexibility is key to thriving in vanlife, having a framework for your days ensures you stay grounded and maintain a sense of balance. Here are four practical tips to create a routine that works for your unique vanlife experience.

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Driving Big Sur Is Kind of Scary, Here's Why

The breathtaking stretch of California's coastline known as Big Sur is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and unparalleled natural beauty. While many travelers are drawn to this iconic destination for its stunning landscapes, some may wonder if the experience of driving along its winding roads is as awe-inspiring as it is nerve-wracking. Is it scary driving in Big Sur?

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An ExPat's Guide To Todos Santos

Todos Santos, a charming town in Baja California Sur, has blossomed from its humble beginnings as a sugar-exporting village into a destination loved by travelers for its art, music, surf, and serene beaches. Located just a short drive from some of the Baja Peninsula's most stunning coastal spots, Todos Santos is a haven of natural beauty, cultural depth, and laidback vibes—a world away from the bustling tourist hubs of Cabo San Lucas and La Paz.

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12 Reasons You Should Seek Dispersed Camping During Van Life

Dispersed camping, or camping outside of established campgrounds, is a popular choice for van lifers seeking overnight parking. It offers freedom, solitude, and unique ways to connect with nature, making it a perfect fit for the van life lifestyle. If you’re still on the fence about dispersed camping, here are twelve reasons why you should give it a try.

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Van Life and Hiking Go Hand in Hand

You don’t need much to go for a hike, which is perfect for van life. Toss on a pair of shoes, ideally something a bit sturdy, and head out for a walk in the woods, desert, mountains, where ever your van is parked. I’ve lived on the road for 8 years now, in a van, focused on getting outside as much as possible to snap pretty photographs and reflect upon the question, “Why am I here?”

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Searching For Flatwater To Kayak Along Highway 395

We had a crazy idea, let’s road trip down Highway 395 in our self-converted van (watch the video tour of our dodge promaster 2500) with kayaks and explore as many bodies of water as possible. We only had a week, so how much could we cram into a single outing? We were not sure, but we wanted to try. So, would five bodies of water be too many, ten? Now, I’ll admit neither of us are good at kayaking, heck we can barely get in the kayaks without flipping, but that doesn’t matter. What matters is that we committed to the idea and have loads of fun along the way.

Did we succeed? Kind of.

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Van Life vs RV Life, Which Lifestyle Is Better

In the ever-changing landscape of adventure travel, where the open road calls and exploration becomes a way of life, you have two options while living on the road: van life or RV life. Growing up as a kid, I spent every holiday in an RV somewhere around the United States or Mexico, but when I graduated college, reality slapped me in the face that living solo in an RV was, well, extra. I didn’t need all that space, so, I built out my own van and lived full-time on the road for seven years. Now, however, I have a committed girlfriend and dog, so van life isn’t ideal anymore.

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7 Reasons You Should Van Life The Pacific Coast Highway

Stretching from the Mexican to Canadian border, the Pacific Coast Highway spans the entire length of the United States west coast and is one of the great American road trips. With just over 1,650 miles filled with breathtaking coastal views, often glorified in surf media, and some of the cutest towns in America, it’s no wonder this the Pacific Coast Highway is calling the names of all those whom live van life. Yet, who will answer the call? Maybe, not enough. However, for those who road trip along the kinda terrifying, winding, two-lane road of the PCH, memories from a once-in-a-lifetime trip that will leave you reminiscing on the grandeur of this van life road trip. So, click that seat belt and continue reading about why you should drive your van the entire length of Pacific Coast Highway.

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