The excitement surrounding vanlife is impossible to ignore, showcasing itself on the covers of popular lifestyle magazines and dominating our social media platforms. While it’s certainly trending now, this lifestyle seems to be here to stay.
Many are drawn to the idea of hitting the open road with just the essentials, but not everyone knows how to embrace this lifestyle. If you’re feeling the call of adventure and want to explore van living, here’s a guide on purchasing a campervan and wandering across the nation.
Determining if vanlife suits you
The initial step when considering a campervan is assessing whether this lifestyle is truly right for you. Many social media accounts and blogs make the vanlife seem effortless and romantic; however, it’s not a fit for everyone. There are various elements of van living that might not appeal to you.
The most apparent challenge is the limited space you will contend with. This situation can be amplified when sharing the space with a friend or partner. Furthermore, maintaining cleanliness in your van consistently is unrealistic, so if you prefer a spotless environment, it may be wise to reconsider.
Additionally, while vans might feel cozy inside, they are generally larger than a car, so if you haven’t driven one before, it’s a good idea to take several test drives first. (See also: The Easiest Ways to Save on Your Next RV Camping Trip)
Deciding between DIY and ready-made vans
When selecting the type of van to buy, you have a variety of choices, and your final decision will depend on personal preference. Your first consideration should be whether you want to create your own interior or choose a pre-built model.
DIY
Many are attracted to the idea of designing their own van, and there are advantages to this approach. Typically, buying an older camper and converting it to your specifications can be more affordable than purchasing a finished product. This option allows you to tailor the van to meet your requirements.
Ready-made
On the other hand, opting for a pre-made campervan has its benefits too. Although it might be pricier, you can start your journey immediately. If you lack the skills or time needed to convert a van, this may be your most viable option.
Conduct research to identify your preferred models and makes, and then explore platforms like Craigslist and other campervan specialty sites to familiarize yourself with their pricing. Understanding the market will enable you to make an informed investment decision. When you find a van that piques your interest and fulfills your criteria, don’t hesitate to make an offer.
Regardless of your choice, it’s wise to have a mechanic check the vehicle before finalizing your purchase to ensure its reliability.
Chart your travel route
One of the greatest pleasures of traveling in a campervan is the unmatched freedom it offers. However, having some rough ideas about your travel path can help reduce the stress of finding campsites or grocery stores along the way.
That said, keep some room for spontaneity in your journey—whether it means extending your stay at a picturesque campsite you’ve discovered or visiting an unplanned town. There’s no need to over-schedule; just outline a few intended stops and how to navigate between them, bearing in mind changing weather conditions.
Finding affordable (or free) sleeping options
If you opt to stay at campsites every night, costs can add up quickly, with some charging upwards of $50. To avoid spending a fortune solely on overnight parking, it’s useful to devise strategies for inexpensive or complimentary camping.
With a little research and planning, you’ll uncover excellent low-cost camping sites. Most Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands and National Forests offer free camping options, along with numerous other locations nationwide. The Free Campsites website is an invaluable resource for locating free campsites throughout the U.S. (See also: How to Find Free Campsites in the U.S.)
Smart packing is essential
Effective packing is crucial for a fulfilling van experience. Without thoughtful organization, you might find yourself with either too much or too little gear. Furthermore, keeping your van organized is imperative, as a cluttered environment is the last thing you want in such a compact living space.
Be sure to allocate a designated spot for all your belongings. A well-designed campervan typically features various storage solutions to optimize space. While you shouldn’t fill every inch just because it’s available, it’s important to ensure that items can be neatly stored away when not in use. (See also: 5 Things You Should Never Pack for Vacation)
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