Van life has become a popular lifestyle choice for those seeking adventure, freedom, and a break from the traditional norms of society. As someone who has been intimately connected with the van life experience for over six years, I can attest to the transformative nature of this lifestyle.
Whether you're a seasoned road warrior like myself or someone contemplating the idea of trading a stationary existence for a life on the move, getting started with van life requires careful planning and thoughtful considerations. Drawing from my own experiences and those of fellow long-time travelers, here's a practical guide to help you embark on your own van life journey.
Monsoon season in the American Southwest comes highly recommended in a van. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Test the Waters:
Before fully committing to the van life, consider renting different vans to understand what suits your preferences and lifestyle. Experiment with various sizes, layouts, and amenities to determine what best aligns with your needs. This initial exploration allows you to make informed decisions before making a long-term commitment.
Here are some platforms you can use to test van life:
Outdoorsy (I think this is your best resource for true van life rigs)
Escape Campervans (good opportunity, but not totally van life rigs)
Indie Campers (Great way to test the waters, but not totally van life rigs)
RV Rentals (Wide variety, mostly RVs but some van life rigs)
Full Commitment:
Once you've experienced the thrill of van life through rentals and are certain it's the lifestyle for you, it's time to make a full commitment. Begin by saving money and selling unnecessary possessions to fund your van life adventure. This step is crucial as it sets the foundation for building out your van, establishing a community, and planning your journey ahead.
Build Your Own Van:
While there are pre-built vans available in the market, consider building your own. This not only allows you to customize your living space according to your needs but also equips you with in-depth knowledge about your vehicle. Understanding the ins and outs of your van is essential for maintenance and troubleshooting on the road.
Set a Two-Year Plan:
Van life is not just a fleeting adventure; it's a lifestyle that requires thoughtful planning. Create a two-year roadmap outlining your travel destinations, budget considerations, and personal goals. This plan serves as a guide, helping you make informed decisions and providing a sense of direction throughout your journey.
Find Remote Work:
Sustaining a nomadic lifestyle requires a source of income. Explore remote work opportunities that allow you to earn a living while on the road. Whether it's freelancing, consulting, or a full-time remote job, having a steady income stream ensures financial stability during your van life journey.
Evaluate and Decide:
After two years on the road, take stock of your van life experience. Assess whether you want to continue this lifestyle or transition back to a more conventional way of living. Some individuals find that van life is a lifelong commitment, while others may choose to become weekend warriors. The key is to reflect on your experiences and make decisions that align with your evolving priorities.
One of the many long roads you can find while living van life. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Embarking on a van life journey is a transformative experience that offers freedom, flexibility, and a unique perspective on life. By testing the waters, fully committing, building your own van, planning for the future, finding remote work, and evaluating your experience after two years, you can make the most of this unconventional lifestyle. Van life is not just a mode of transportation; it's a way of embracing the journey and finding fulfillment on the open road.
