Van life has really exploded in popularity in recent years, and for a very good reason. The freedom to hit the road, take us off to new places and live life on your own terms is super appealing.
But before you pack up and set off, there are some things that you should consider. Living and travelling in a van is as unique a lifestyle as they come. There are rewards, there are challenges and it’s not always easygoing.
If you’re starting with a basic vehicle or you need to make your space livable, it’s smart to consult professionals like Van Upgrades. They specialize in converting vans into functional, comfortable living spaces. Getting your van ready is just one piece of that puzzle, but here’s what else you should do before you decide to take the plunge into van travel.
- The lifestyle test. Before you commit fully, try a few short term trips to see what van life feels like on the road. Renting a camper van or staying on your own for a few weekends can really help you to spend time off grid. This then gives you the experience of using limited resources and seeing how you cope with small spaces, minimal amenities and unpredictable weather patterns. It’s one thing to consider the freedom that van life can give you, but it’s a completely other thing to experience it yourself.
- Assess both your needs and your wants. Are you planning on traveling full time or just want to get away for a weekend? Will you plan to work remotely from the road or are you traveling solo? Making a list of the essentials from a comfortable kitchen, power for your devices, or a bed helps you to understand what you should prioritize. You should then consider the things that are nice to have because this list will help to guide any van conversion work and ensure that your setup fits your routine.
- Set yourself a budget. Living in a van isn’t free, even if you’re avoiding paying rent or mortgages. Before you hit the road, have a financial plan in place that includes the cost of outfitting your van, your insurance, the fuel, the maintenance and security. You also might need to think about camping fees and food while you’re on the road. Set aside an emergency fund too, for the unexpected repairs that might come up. The more prepared you are financially, the more freedom you’ll have while you’re travelling.
- The legalities and the safety considerations. What do you know right now about legally parking? Different cities and countries have different rules, and getting fined or asked to move in the middle of the night is not a good idea. You’ll also want to make sure that your van is insured properly, registered properly, and roadworthy. By installing basic safety features like a fire extinguisher, carbon monoxide detector, and proper ventilation, you can make all the difference to yourself.
- Make a plan to stay connected. If you plan to work on the road, stream any content, or stay in touch with friends and family, you’ll need to have reliable Internet access. This means researching mobile hotspots, data plans, and offline tools that work well in remote areas.
