What is Vanlife?
What is Vanlife?
Vanlife is a lifestyle in which people live and travel in a converted van or campervan. It has become popular in recent years, particularly among young people who are drawn to the freedom and flexibility that vanlife offers. Vanlifers often choose to live this way in order to save money on rent and travel frequently or full-time. Many vanlifers work remotely or run their own businesses, which allows them to earn a living while on the road. Others may choose to live in a van in order to experience the outdoors and explore different parts of the country or world. Overall, vanlife can be a rewarding and exciting way to live, but it can also come with its challenges, such as limited space and dealing with inclement weather.
What kind of life vanlifers live?
Vanlifers can live a variety of lifestyles, depending on their individual circumstances and preferences. Some vanlifers may choose to live in their van full-time, traveling frequently and spending extended periods of time in different locations. Others may use their van as a part-time home, living in it part of the year and renting an apartment or house during other times. Some vanlifers may work remotely or run their own businesses, allowing them to earn a living while on the road. Others may take on temporary or seasonal jobs in order to support their vanlife lifestyle. Overall, the lifestyle of vanlifers can vary greatly depending on the individual.
What are the pros and cons in vanlife?
Vanlife can be a rewarding and exciting way to live, but it also has its challenges. Some of the pros of vanlife include:
Freedom and flexibility: Vanlife allows you to travel and explore different parts of the country or world at your own pace. You can choose where you want to go and how long you want to stay there, giving you a sense of freedom and control over your life.
Savings on rent and other expenses: Living in a van can save you money on rent, utilities, and other expenses associated with traditional housing. This can be especially beneficial for those who are looking to save money or live on a budget.
Connection with nature: Vanlife allows you to spend more time outdoors and experience nature in a way that many people don't have the opportunity to do. Whether you're camping in a remote wilderness area or exploring a national park, vanlife can provide a sense of connection with the natural world.
Some of the potential challenges or drawbacks of vanlife include:
Limited space: Living in a van can be cramped and uncomfortable, especially if you're used to living in a larger space. You may need to be creative in order to make the most of the limited space, and you may need to make sacrifices in terms of what you can bring with you.
Dealing with inclement weather: Depending on where you live, you may need to deal with extreme weather conditions, such as extreme heat or cold. This can be difficult if you're not prepared, and it may limit where you can go or how long you can stay in certain areas.
Isolation: Vanlife can be isolating at times, especially if you're traveling solo or if you're in a remote location. You may not have the same access to social activities or support networks that you would have if you were living in a traditional home.
Overall, vanlife can be a rewarding and exciting way to live, but it's important to consider both the pros and cons before making the decision to live in a van.
What kind of a van should a person get when starting vanlife?
When starting vanlife, it's important to choose a van that will meet your needs and fit your budget. The type of van that's right for you will depend on a number of factors, such as how much space you need, what your budget is, and what you plan to use the van for. Some popular options for vanlife include:
Conversion vans: These are typically larger vans that have been converted into a campervan or mobile home. Conversion vans can be a good option if you need a lot of space and want a more comfortable living space, but they can be expensive to buy and maintain.
Cargo vans: Cargo vans are smaller and more compact than conversion vans, making them easier to park and maneuver. They are also generally less expensive than conversion vans, but they may not have as much living space.
Camper vans: Camper vans are smaller than conversion vans and are specifically designed for camping and outdoor adventures. They usually have a built-in kitchen and sleeping area, but they may not have as much living space as a conversion van.
Ultimately, the best van for vanlife will depend on your individual needs and preferences. It's important to consider factors such as cost, size, and features when choosing a van. It may also be helpful to talk to other vanlifers and do some research online to learn more about different van options and what other people have found to be successful.
What kind of person lives as a vanlifer?
There is no one type of person who lives as a vanlifer. Vanlife can be a rewarding and exciting way to live for people of all ages, backgrounds, and lifestyles. Some vanlifers may be young and single, while others may be older and retired. Some may be working professionals, while others may be artists or entrepreneurs. Some may be traveling solo, while others may be part of a couple or a family. Ultimately, the common thread among vanlifers is a desire for freedom, flexibility, and a connection with nature. Whether you're young or old, single or married, working or retired, there may be a place for you in the vanlife community.
How does a person prepare for vanlife?
Preparing for vanlife can be a challenging but exciting process. Before making the decision to live in a van, it's important to carefully consider your reasons for wanting to do so and whether it's the right choice for you. Some things to consider when preparing for vanlife include:
Finances: Living in a van can save you money on rent and other expenses, but it can also be expensive in other ways. You may need to make a significant investment in a van, as well as in equipment and supplies. It's important to carefully budget and plan for these costs, as well as for any ongoing expenses you may have, such as fuel and maintenance.
Legal considerations: Depending on where you plan to live in your van, there may be legal considerations to keep in mind. For example, some areas may have laws about where you can park a van or how long you can stay in one place. It's important to research and understand these laws to avoid any legal issues.
Equipment and supplies: When living in a van, you will need to have the right equipment and supplies to make your van a comfortable and functional living space. This may include items such as bedding, cooking equipment, storage solutions, and camping gear. It's important to carefully plan and prepare for these items, as well as to think about how you will store and transport them.
Maintenance and repair: Vanlife can be hard on a vehicle, especially if you plan to travel frequently or go off-road. It's important to have a plan for maintaining and repairing your van, as well as to have emergency supplies on hand in case something goes wrong.
Overall, preparing for vanlife can be a challenging but rewarding process. It's important to carefully plan and prepare, and to be open to learning and adapting as you go. With the right mindset and preparation, vanlife can be a fulfilling and exciting way to live.
Do you think a person who just camps out during weekends in their campervans but has a house is living vanlife?
It's difficult to say whether a person who only camps out in their campervan on weekends is living vanlife. Vanlife is a lifestyle that involves living and traveling in a van or campervan, often full-time or for extended periods of time. So, while a person who only camps out in their campervan on weekends may be enjoying some aspects of vanlife, they may not be fully embracing the lifestyle.
But whether you only camp out during weekends or fulfilling a life of vanlifers, know that it’s an activity that makes you appreciate life and the world we live in.
You can also check out the campervans we have with the comforts of “My home away from home”.
