In the last census, it was estimated that nearly 140,000 people were living in a van or another recreational vehicle.
With van life becoming increasingly popular, especially on social media, many people are wondering if they too should hit the road for the ultimate adventure.
While living in a van can be a life-changing experience, it is not for everyone. This is what to consider before diving into the van life.
How to Find a Safe (and Legal) Place to Park
Parking, especially overnight, can be tricky when living the van life. Many places will and have a right to, kick you out if you try to sleep on their property.
One of the best places to sleep while on the road is at rest stops. They are frequented by hundreds of travelers a day and usually provide access to restroom facilities and snacks.
Other places you can usually get away with staying overnight include the parking lots of religious buildings, Wal-Mart, and hotels. You can also pay to stay at campgrounds.
You’ll Still Have Chores and Responsibilities
Many people think that living in a van is one long, fun road trip with no responsibilities. It is important to note, however, that there are still chores to do in and around the van.
You will have to keep your van clean by doing basic tasks such as recycling, taking out the trash, and cleaning the toilet (if your van has one). Your responsibilities are fewer, but they still exist.
It’s Important to Have Enough Money
Living in a van is cheaper than living in a home or apartment, but there are still costs associated with it.
It is important to take into consideration that you still need money for food and other necessities. You also need to remember that you may encounter emergency situations with your vehicle that could be costly. This is why saving up enough money before you go is essential.
Many people also choose to work a remote job while living the van life doing things like writing, vlogging, or working part-time at national parks.
You Need to Find a Vehicle That Suits You
Before going out on the road, it is important to buy a camper van that will work best with your lifestyle needs. There are many different types of vans to choose from, so doing your research is essential.
You need to take into consideration how big you need your vehicle to be, what features are must-haves for you, and how well it can drive in certain conditions.
If you are unsure about how to choose a new camper van, then learn more here about the best vans for RV living.
Know What to Do in Case of an Emergency
It is always important to have an escape route. Living the van life isn’t always glamorous, so you need to know what to do if you find yourself in a dangerous or uncomfortable situation.
Make sure you are prepared to adapt if there are intense weather conditions or unsafe areas that may cause you to change your course.
It is also important to have something to go back to if you need to suddenly ditch the van life and head back home.
Is Living in a Van Right for You?
So, with all of these things considered, is living in a van a good fit for you? Van life can be an incredibly rewarding experience that will provide you with memories to last a lifetime.
If you enjoyed this article, feel free to check out our travel section for similar content.
