The Ultimate Vanlife Guide: Peer-Reviewed Research, Stories, Tips, and Insights
What is vanlife, and why is it so popular? This comprehensive guide delves into the movement's culture, community, and the realities of living on the road, combining research and interviews
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Over the last decade, vanlife has evolved from a niche lifestyle to a cultural movement. Whether inspired by social media or a desire for independence, people choose to live on the road—and many are thriving.
This lifestyle offers something different—a chance to escape the noise, embrace simplicity, and discover the world at your own pace.
But what is vanlife? And why has it become so popular?
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We've analyzed several peer-reviewed research papers and our Vanlife Voices interviews with ten vanlifers from The United States, The United Kingdom, Europe, and Australia to create this comprehensive introduction to vanlife.
What is Vanlife?
Vanlife is a vehicle-based, hypermobile lifestyle where individuals travel and live in vans or campers. It's a choice rooted in freedom, simplicity, and adaptability, often offering an escape from societal constraints.
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While Vanlife started gaining attention in the 2010s, it became a broader trend after the COVID-19 pandemic, as travel restrictions increased interest in self-contained, mobile living spaces.
For many, vanlife represents a shift in priorities. January (aka Jfromeverywhere on Instagram) describes it as a way to embrace independence and connect with nature, particularly in regions like the U.S. West, which offers extensive public land.
Siena found in vanlife a path to reclaim her freedom and rebuild her life after personal hardships. Similarly, Nige and Diane viewed it as a fresh start, leaving behind societal pressures and embracing the open road.
But what makes vanlife so appealing beyond its promise of freedom?
Why Vanlife?
Vanlife's appeal lies in its versatility and promise of adventure. It allows people to break free from traditional routines and immerse themselves in an exploratory, minimalist lifestyle.
Dominique Richie (@shewandersearth on Instagram) sums up why many vanlifers choose the vanlife lifestyle
Based on our research, the following are the most common reasons vanlife is so popular:
- Freedom and Flexibility: With a van as your home, you can chase the sun, avoid harsh winters, or park where life feels right. British vanlifer's Lauren and Louis (@laurenlouistravel) embraced vanlife after redundancy, using it to rekindle their love for travel.
- Minimalism and Simplicity: The vanlife lifestyle demands reducing material possessions encouraging a simpler, more intentional way of living. Canadian vanlifer Dominique (@shewandersearth) highlights how downsizing has helped her focus on what truly matters.
- Exploration & Adventure: The ability to wake up to a new view daily fuels many vanlifers' wanderlust. British vanlifers Maisie and Nikita (@maisie.andnikita) describe their van as a home and a vessel for discovering new places and creating memories. Nigel and Sue covered 80,000km traveling for three years across Australia.
- Response to Modern Challenges: The pandemic was a catalyst for many vanlifers, with many turning to the lifestyle for its safe, self-contained travel possibilities. Rising housing costs in urban areas make vanlife an attractive alternative for those seeking financial freedom.
Why vanlife is so popular?
A 2024 study on hypermobile travel segments defines vanlife as "individuals traveling in rented, borrowed, or owned self-propelled vans or campers that serve as primary accommodation." The research reveals that motivations vary—from financial constraints to personal growth. Social media also plays a significant role, glamorizing the lifestyle while connecting the community.
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The paper goes on to list 8 reasons why vanlife has become so popular and vanlifer's motivations:
- Minimalism: Vanlifers are drawn to reducing material possessions and living a simpler, more intentional lifestyle.
- Escapism: The desire to escape traditional societal constraints and routines, particularly the capitalist "work-and-spend" cycle.
- Authenticity and Self-Fulfillment: Vanlife is often associated with finding one's "authentic self," self-expression, and personal transformation.
- Connection with Nature: Many Vanlifers prefer nature-based activities over cultural exploration, aligning with a desire to disconnect from urban environments.
- Cost-Effectiveness: For some, living in a van provides an affordable housing alternative, particularly during financial instability or housing crises (e.g., U.S. housing challenges).
- Travel and Adventure: The opportunity to travel extensively and experience freedom and spontaneity while exploring remote destinations.
- Social Media Influence: Social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube have glamorized Vanlife, inspiring people to adopt the lifestyle.
- Community and Belonging: A sense of belonging through online communities and, for some, offline meetups with other Vanlifers.
How to Start Vanlife
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Choosing the right vehicle
Your van is the foundation of your vanlife experience. The vehicle you choose will determine how you live, where you can go, and what you can do. You'll also need to consider the conversion and van decoration. Here's how to pick the one that fits your lifestyle.
Size: small vans vs. larger vans
The size of your van influences your mobility, stealth, and comfort. Smaller vans are great for urban environments and stealth camping, allowing you to park unnoticed.
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For example, Siena began her vanlife journey with a compact Ford Transit Connect, appreciating its small size and easy manoeuvrability. However, as her needs grew, she realized its limitations and eventually transitioned to a more reliable truck camper with 4x4 capabilities, better suited for full-time living and off-road adventures.
Larger vans like Mercedes Sprinters or Ford Transits offer more space for amenities like kitchens and bathrooms. These are ideal for extended living and off-grid setups.
Lauren and Louis selected a Ford Transit for its suitability for full-time living. They appreciated its space and practicality, which allowed them to include features like an arched bulkhead door and ample room for their upcycled kitchen and retro van decor.
Features: Pre-built RVs vs. DIY van conversions
Pre-built RVs are ready to hit the road with all essential amenities, making them a good choice for those prioritizing convenience. However, they often come with a higher price tag. A DIY conversion can be the perfect solution for those on a budget or seeking a customized setup.
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Image credit: Nige & Diane (@thisis_vanlife on Instagram) - Nige & Diane's ambulance van conversion
Nige and Diane repurposed a retired Scottish ambulance for their vanlife adventure. They stripped it down to the bare shell and rebuilt it entirely: "It was like working with a tank. What I thought would take a week took a month because of its solid construction, but we ended up with something incredibly durable and reliable."
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Image credit: January (@jfromeverywhere on Instagram) - January converted a beat up 1979 RV-style van into a beautiful home on wheels
January bought a 1979 RV-style van with an outdated interior and completely gutted it, down to the bare metal. She rebuilt it herself, transforming it into a healthy, livable space that felt like home.
However, DIY builds require time, patience, and a willingness to learn. As Nige put it:
"Half of our time was spent researching how to do things before we actually did them."
Minimalism is a core value of vanlife, and vehicle choice reflects this. Research shows that many vanlifers prioritize functionality over luxury. Smaller, highly customized vans align with a desire for simplicity and mobility, while larger vehicles appeal to those seeking a home-like experience. Consider your priorities: Will you be camping in cities or remote locations? Do you need a full kitchen or a basic setup?
Forums, vanlife meetups, and platforms like Instagram and YouTube are full of insights and inspiration. Maisie and Nikita researched extensively and drew inspiration from others' van setups, using those ideas as a guide to create a build that matched their lifestyle and needs.
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Image credit: Nik & Maisie (@maisie.andnikita on Instagram) - Ford Transit van conversion
Choosing the right vehicle is the first big step in your vanlife journey. Whether you opt for a pre-built RV or a DIY project, your van should align with your goals, budget, and sense of adventure. Test-drive a few options, consider your needs, and don't rush the decision—you'll spend much time in your new home on wheels.
Van Build Costs
Planning your budget is one of the most critical steps when preparing for vanlife. Whether opting for a DIY conversion or hiring a professional, understanding costs and avoiding common pitfalls can save you from financial stress later.
Estimating unforeseen costs
Van builds vary widely in price depending on the vehicle, materials, and labor. Here are real-world examples from vanlifers:
- Lucinda's Repairs and Additions: Lucinda shares that budgeting isn't just about the initial build—it's about anticipating future costs. She mentions needing to allocate funds for repairs and unforeseen issues, which is an ongoing aspect of vanlife maintenance.
- Maisie & Nikita's Seasonal Adjustments: During their van conversion, Maisie and Nikita adjusted their budget to include essential features for winter vanlife, such as insulation and heating. Their advice is to research what equipment you'll need, especially for seasonal changes.
- Georgina's Professional Build: Georgina chose a professional service for her van conversion, which cost slightly more than her initial budget but delivered a fully bespoke design that fit her needs perfectly.
Avoiding common van build cost pitfalls
- Underestimating Costs: DIY builders often underestimate material costs or forget to include tools. Jfromeverywhere shared that her van rebuild took twice as long and cost significantly more than expected due to unexpected repairs: "I thought it would take six months, but it ended up taking a year, and I had to completely rebuild the interior."
- Skimping on Essential Features: Siena highlights prioritizing features like a reliable electrical system and insulation and that you can't afford to cut corners on essentials if you live in it full-time.
Practical tips for van build budgeting
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- Break Down the Costs: Divide your budget into categories such as insulation, plumbing, electrical systems, and interior furnishings. This will help you track spending and avoid over-investing in non-essential areas.
- Plan for Contingencies: Always allocate an additional 10-20% of your budget for unexpected costs, such as structural repairs or emergency upgrades.
- Use the community for guidance: Maisie and Nikita emphasize the value of learning from others' experiences. They found tools like Park4Night essential for finding free camping spots, helping manage expenses effectively.
With careful planning and realistic expectations, you can build a van that suits your lifestyle and financial situation. Budgeting may be challenging, but the reward is a home on wheels that offers freedom and adventure.
With your build and budget in place, it's time to consider daily life on the road.
What is Vanlife Like?
Studies and our Vanlife Voices interviews show that vanlifers adopt the lifestyle to escape traditional routines and connect with their authentic selves. The challenges and communal nature of vanlife often lead to personal growth and a strong sense of belonging.
Vanlife is also increasingly shaped by the digital economy, as many vanlifers sustain their travels through remote work or social media ventures. However, the unpredictable nature of life on the road demands flexibility and resourcefulness.
Life on the road
Living in a van means adapting to a slower pace while balancing work, travel, and downtime. For many vanlifers, daily tasks like cooking, cleaning, and staying connected take longer than in traditional homes.
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Image credit: Lucinda Norris (@vanlifewithluci on Instagram) - Luci takes full advantage of the vanlife lifestyle
Lucinda explains that van life reshaped her daily routine. Simple tasks like sourcing water or preparing tea require extra steps, such as finding refill stations or setting up her gas cooker. Despite these challenges, she’s embraced a slower, more intentional way of living, finding it deeply rewarding.
Vanlifer January describes balancing remote work and on-the-road gigs during her travels. She found that working at festivals and bars offered her flexibility to prioritize travel, while remote jobs like teaching English online provided the stability needed to sustain van life.
Research also highlights how vanlifers often tailor their travel patterns to their professional lives, balancing hypermobility with the need for reliable income.
Social connections and community
Many vanlifers find that living on the road strengthens their social ties. Through research and interviews with many vanlifers, we've found them to be the most kind-hearted and engaged community.
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January reflects on her time at Skoolie Palooza, an annual vanlife gathering: "I thought making friends as an adult would be hard, but in this community, it's like you've known each other forever because you share similar experiences."
Siena's story shows how the community can provide essential support in times of crisis: "When my truck camper's roof collapsed, the community showed up for me. They raised funds and physically helped me rebuild. It was life-changing."
Lucinda Norris (@vanlifewithluci on Instagram) talks about the importance of vanlife community
Lucinda emphasizes how community also helps with practical aspects: "Your biggest hack in vanlife is community. They share tips for finding free water, showers, and the best spots."
Peer-reviewed research corroborates this, noting that vanlife communities foster collaboration and connection, helping individuals feel less isolated.
How hard is vanlife? — managing the challenges
Vanlife comes with its share of challenges, from breakdowns to unexpected expenses. Siena shares how her camper's roof collapsed twice just two weeks after buying it. Rebuilding it was an intense and demanding process, but she gained valuable skills and a deeper appreciation for her journey along the way.
January also notes the logistical difficulties of living in an older van: "When my van breaks down, I lose both my home and my transportation. It's something you don't think about until it happens."
Dominique emphasizes the importance of budgeting for regular maintenance, especially when driving older vehicles. From brakes and tires to electrical systems, she explains that issues are inevitable, so having a maintenance fund is essential.
Nigel and Sue describe how vanlife can be challenging as a couple: "Living in tight quarters requires patience, understanding, and the ability to compromise." Nigel also recommends people hire a van and try the vanlife lifestyle before committing to a van build—a time-consuming and expensive process.
Customizing Your Van
Creating a functional van starts with the essentials, like a water system, heating, van electrics, and storage, to make your van a livable space.
Siena (@solo.siena) takes us on a quick van tour
Van water systems
Access to water is critical for long-term vanlife. Siena underscores the need for a reliable water system, highlighting how proper storage and an efficient way to refill can significantly improve the experience—especially when living off grid.
Lucinda’s compact van setup focuses on minimal yet practical solutions. She emphasizes how features like a small water tank and portable sink were sufficient for her needs, allowing her to save valuable space in her build.
Heating for seasonal travel
For those planning to travel in colder climates, heating is essential. Maisie and Nikita love skiing and travel to the Alps for winters. Their diesel heater makes their campervan liveable for these cold trips.
Dominique designed her van to handle Canada’s harsh winters by using a combination of three types of insulation: Thinsulate, Reflectix, and Havelock Sheep's Wool. This layering ensures maximum efficiency by addressing different needs, such as covering bare metal and filling crevices. With a thermostat-controlled heater, Dominique keeps her van at a cozy 21°C even in brutal winter conditions, making her home on wheels warm and comfortable all year round.
Maximizing storage
Efficient storage is key in a small space. Siena rebuilt her truck camper with clever storage solutions, including adding under-bed storage and overhead cabinets to make the most of every inch.
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Lucinda's short-wheelbase van also focuses on space-saving designs. Everything had to be compact but functional—hidden drawers and collapsible furniture were lifesavers.
Unique and creative touches
Customizing your van with personal touches makes it uniquely yours and homely.
Lauren and Louis personalized their van with features that reflect their retro and creative style. They included unique touches like a record player station for their love of music and a handcrafted arched "hobbit door" bulkhead for added charm. Their goal was to make the van cozy and truly their own, incorporating upcycled and secondhand elements throughout.
Lauren and Louis (@laurenlouistravel on Instagram) talking about upcycling for their van build
Lauren and Louis are also big on repurposing and upcycling, adding charm and sustainability. Most of their furniture came from thrift stores or repurposed wood, which gave the van a rustic feel and saved money.
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Image credit: Lauren and Louis (@laurenlouistravel on Instagram) - Lauren & Louis upcycled and repurposed most elements in their van
Nige and Diane transformed a retired Scottish ambulance into a unique home on wheels. They described stripping the vehicle down to the shell as a significant challenge, taking a month due to the robust construction of the ambulance. Their efforts resulted in a completely personalized and functional living space.
Lessons from DIY conversions
DIY builds are rewarding but come with a steep learning curve. Mistakes happen, but they teach valuable lessons. Nigel and Sue relied on online resources to guide their build: "The University of YouTube taught us everything we needed to know, from plumbing to electrical work."
Instagram is full of advice and mini-tutorials to inspire your van build. Many vanlifers also have helpful resources and courses.
Just be prepared for the long haul. Van builds are intense and time-consuming. January's year-long rebuild required patience and adaptability: "I gutted the van down to the bare metal and rebuilt it myself, which took way longer than expected, but it was worth it."
Because van builds take time, be wary of setting deadlines without fully understanding the process and tasks; Lauren and Louis learned this the hard way:
"Take the time to enjoy the journey of building your van rather than rushing to the finish line. We burned out several times trying to meet self-imposed deadlines. Once we accepted that, the process became less stressful and a lot more fun."
You must also be prepared for the unexpected! Siena advises preparing for unforeseen challenges during a DIY build: "Two weeks after I bought my camper, the roof blew off. I had to rebuild it from scratch, which was tough but taught me so much."
Prioritizing form over function is another hard lesson many vanlifers learn. Dominique highlights the importance of balancing creativity with practicality: "You can design the prettiest van, but if it doesn't function well on the road, it'll drive you mad. Learn from what others have done."
Customizing your van is a deeply personal process. Every decision should reflect your needs and personality, from choosing the right essentials to adding creative touches. Whether upcycling materials or learning from YouTube, your build will teach you new skills and give you a space you can call home.
Understanding Van Electrics
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A reliable campervan electrical system is essential for vanlife—especially for remote workers. It powers everything from lights to appliances and ensures you can live comfortably, whether off-grid or at a campsite. Setting up van electrics might seem overwhelming, but breaking it into steps simplifies the process.
Planning your system
Siena explains that her minimalist setup, consisting of a deep-cycle battery and a Jackery unit, was enough for her off-grid needs. Understanding your energy requirements and making adjustments, such as upgrading to solar or more advanced systems, if you plan to work remotely or stay off-grid for extended periods.
Core van electrics components
Your van's electrical system revolves around a few key components:
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- Battery bank: The battery stores power from solar panels, shore power, or the alternator. Lucinda advises prioritizing durability. She went with an AGM battery for budget reasons, but wants to upgrade to a lithium battery in the future because they last longer and handle more power.
- Solar Panels: Solar is a must-have for off-grid travel. Lucinda highlights the importance of hard-wearing campervan solar panels for efficiency and durability. She has 750 watts of solar mounted on Z brackets. These panels are tough and work perfectly for her short-wheelbase van, which needed a compact, efficient setup.
- Inverter: An inverter converts DC power from batteries to AC power for appliances. A pure sine wave inverter is worth the investment if you use sensitive devices like laptops or fridges.
- Charge Controller: This device regulates energy flow from solar panels to batteries. MPPT controllers are highly efficient and ideal for larger setups.
Van electrics can feel daunting, but with careful planning and the right components, you'll create a system that powers your vanlife dreams. If you're stuck or lack electrical experience, we recommend using Vunked's van electrics builder tool. It provides a complete list of everything you need based on your appliances, vehicle, and lifestyle needs. The team is also super helpful with advice and after-sales support.
Popular Vanlife Destinations
North America
United States:
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- West Coast: California (e.g., Big Sur, coastal highways), Oregon, and Washington are frequently mentioned for scenic drives and access to nature.
- Sedona, Arizona: Known for its desert landscapes, canyons, and opportunities for yoga, stargazing, and outdoor activities.
- Utah: National Parks like Zion and Arches are often highlighted for their iconic red rock formations.
"Monument Valley and Valley of the Gods in Utah. Honestly, all of southern Utah is gorgeous. I loved Zion. I loved Bryce Canyon, and I loved Monument Valley and Valley of the Gods." Jfromeverywhere
- Moab: The gateway to Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, both known for their stunning red rock formations, arches, and hiking opportunities.
"I feel like I can be really off-grid in Moab for a while, and there's a city where you can go in and come back out. It feels pretty out there." Siena
- Colorado: Mountains, hiking trails, and open landscapes attract Vanlifers looking for adventure and seclusion.
Canada:
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- Western Canada, particularly British Columbia (e.g., Vancouver Island), for its natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle.
Mexico:
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- Baja California Peninsula: Beaches, azure seas, and desert landscapes.
"I liked Baja, California Sur. A lot of really beautiful spots." Jfromeverywhere
- Popular routes include traveling south along the Pacific Coast.
Central America
Countries like Guatemala, El Salvador, and Costa Rica are commonly featured in vanlife journeys, offering tropical climates, white-sand beaches, and vibrant landscapes.
Europe
- Portugal: A favorite for its relaxed attitude toward Vanlife, coastal scenery, and surf culture.
"Inland Portugal is an absolute gem with beautiful mountains and national parks. It's a lot more relaxed with vans there compared to the beaches."
Nige (@thisis_vanlife)
- Spain: Known for its diverse landscapes, from Mediterranean beaches to the Pyrenees.
- France: Popular due to "aires" (dedicated parking spaces for vans with essential facilities) and scenic rural regions like Provence.
- Italy: Offers picturesque countryside and coastal drives (e.g., Amalfi Coast).
- Scotland: Highlights include the Highlands and islands, with more lenient wild camping laws than England and Wales.
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"I think Scotland is our favourite destination... just because it's a bit more tolerant of vans... They all pile up to the honeypots. So they go to Glencoe, they go to the Isle of Skye... but there are so many more fantastic parts of Scotland... the area we're in at the moment, Argyll and Bute, it's just fantastic" Nige (@thisis_vanlife)
- Scandinavia: Norway, Sweden, and Finland are increasingly popular for their open landscapes, accessibility to wilderness, and Northern Lights viewing opportunities.
Australia and New Zealand
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Australia:
- Coastal regions and the Outback are preferred by vanlifers, including the Great Ocean Road and remote beaches.
- Retirees, particularly "Grey Nomads," favor this destination for its vast spaces and campervan-friendly infrastructure.
New Zealand:
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- Rugged mountains, lakes, and outdoor activities make it a hotspot for Vanlife enthusiasts.
Digital nomad-oriented vanlife locations
- Urban Areas with Practical Amenities: Vanlifers frequently stop in urban centers to access facilities, work remotely, or resupply. Examples include Walmart parking lots in North America or urban hubs with coworking spaces.
- Remote and Off-Grid Spots: Vanlifers prefer locations that provide isolation, opportunities for wild camping, and a connection to nature. Apps like Park4Night help them find these hidden gems.
These are just a few of the most popular destinations. But what about safety?
Is Vanlife Safe?
Safety is one of the biggest concerns for aspiring vanlifers. While vanlife has risks, careful planning, situational awareness, and the right tools can make it a secure and rewarding lifestyle. Here's how vanlifers navigate the challenges and stay safe on the road.
Wild camping and isolation
Wild camping offers seclusion and a connection to nature, but it can also be risky:
- Vulnerability to crime due to isolation, especially in unfamiliar or remote locations.
- Encounters with dangerous wildlife in areas like North America, Australia, and New Zealand.
Urban camping
Staying in urban areas (e.g., Walmart parking lots in the U.S.) is convenient but may expose Vanlifers to:
- Noise and disturbances from traffic or local activity.
- Theft or break-ins, especially in poorly lit or high-crime areas.
Border crossings
Some research has highlighted border crossings as moments of heightened scrutiny and potential stress—especially in countries where officials expect bribes. Some border safety examples include:
- Searches by customs officials.
- Long waits and logistical challenges.
- Occasional intimidation or questioning.
Weather and environmental risks
Vanlifers traveling in extreme environments face risks such as:
- Flash floods in desert regions like Utah.
- Wildfires, particularly in California and Australia.
- Snow and ice in mountainous or colder regions can make driving dangerous.
Health and emergency services
- Limited access to healthcare in remote areas or while traveling long distances may pose risks in case of illness or injury. A simple trip and fall could be life-threatening in a remote location if you can't get help.
Dependency on technology
Reliance on mobile devices for navigation and connectivity can become a safety issue if:
- Devices lose power in remote areas.
- Connectivity is unavailable, leaving Vanlifers without access to digital maps or emergency services.
Strategies for ensuring vanlife safety
Using apps and online communities:
- Vanlifers use tools like Park4Night (UK/Europe) or iOverlander (United States/Worldwide) and social media platforms to find safe and well-reviewed camping spots.
- Connecting with online communities allows travelers to share advice and warnings about unsafe areas.
Traveling in groups:
- Some Vanlifers form temporary or long-term convoys to enhance safety, particularly in less secure regions.
Preparedness for emergencies:
- Carrying first aid kits, fire extinguishers, and tools for basic vehicle repairs is common.
- Stocking up on essential supplies like food, water, and fuel in case of unexpected delays or emergencies.
- Trust your instincts. Siena advises vanlifers to listen to their gut when choosing a spot:
"If a place doesn't feel safe, move. It's better to be cautious than to risk a bad experience."
Blending in and stealth camping:
- In urban environments, stealth camping (parking inconspicuously) avoids drawing attention and reduces the risk of confrontation or break-ins.
Avoiding high-risk areas:
- Vanlifers often research crime statistics and avoid regions known for high theft or violence rates.
Cultural and legal considerations
Local laws and restrictions:
- Misunderstandings of local camping or parking laws can lead to safety concerns, which can lead to fines or confrontations with authorities.
- Countries like Scotland are more lenient with wild camping. In contrast, restrictions in England or urban areas in North America can create challenges.
Engaging with locals:
- Building relationships with local communities can provide security, advice, and a sense of belonging, mitigating feelings of isolation.
Vanlife can be safe if you take the proper precautions. Choose parking spots wisely, invest in security features, and trust your instincts. With preparation and respect for the communities you visit, you'll find that vanlife is secure and deeply rewarding.
Is Vanlife Right for You?
Vanlife offers freedom, adventure, and a chance to live outside the norm—but it's not for everyone. While many vanlifers love life on the road, every one of them will admit it's a tough adjustment, and many find living in a van isn't what they expected.
Understanding what it takes to thrive on the road, testing the lifestyle, and preparing for its challenges will help you decide.
Vanlife suits individuals who value flexibility, self-sufficiency, and personal growth. Siena's journey shows how vanlife can be transformative: "I needed to escape my old life and start over. Living in a van gave me the independence to rebuild myself on my own terms."
Dominique describes vanlife as an opportunity to simplify and refocus: "I didn't need all the stuff I'd been holding onto. Vanlife helped me figure out what's really important to me."
Those who thrive in vanlife are adaptable, resourceful, and open to learning new skills. As Nige puts it: "You have to embrace problem-solving because things will go wrong, but that's part of the adventure."
Testing the vanlife lifestyle
Before committing, try vanlife on a smaller scale to see if it suits your needs and expectations. Lauren and Louis took shorter journeys to test their setup before transitioning to full-time vanlife: "We did a trial run to Scotland in winter to see if the van worked for us. It was a good way to discover what we needed to change."
Maisie and Nikita planned their Scotland trip to understand how their van handled colder weather: "We wanted to see how our heating and insulation worked before committing to full-time living. Scotland was the perfect test."
Start with weekend trips or seasonal adventures to experiment with setups, routes, and your tolerance for vanlife's unique demands.
References
- Vanlife Voices. (n.d.). Vanlife Voices interviews: Insights and experiences from the vanlife community. https://vanlifevoices.com/blog/
- Vunked. (n.d.). Retrieved January 25, 2025, from https://vunked.com
- Gretzel, U., & Hardy, A. (2019). #VanLife: Materiality, Makeovers and Mobility amongst Digital Nomads. e-Review of Tourism Research (eRTR), 16(2/3). Retrieved from http://ertr.tamu.edu.
- Rodriguez, C. (2023). #Vanlife: Living the Dream or Surviving a Nightmare? Anthropological Journal of European Cultures, 32(2), 68–87. https://doi.org/10.3167/ajec.2023.320205.
- May, L. (2022). On the Road: Emergent Spatiality in #Vanlife. Platform: Journal of Media and Communication, 9(1), 56–72. https://doi.org/10.54378/platform9.1.01
- Muhs, C. S., Agapito, D. L. M., & Pereira, L. N. (2024). Understanding Vanlife: The current state of the art of a vehicle-based hypermobile travel phenomenon. Current Issues in Tourism. https://doi.org/10.1080/13683500.2024.2311148