Vanlife is not just about Instagram-perfect pictures; it’s a lifestyle that requires smart choices – and that’s exactly what makes it so appealing. This is why vanlife works for us.
Vanlife sounds amazing, but behind the dream, there’s more than just the freedom to be anywhere. Sure, there’s plenty of content showcasing beautiful camper spots with stunning sunsets and the usual tales of freedom in your backyard. But let’s be real for a moment and focus on the practical side that makes vanlife so appealing: space-saving, lower costs, and the ability to keep moving. Let’s break down these points for you.
1. Simplicity in Daily Life
No unnecessary items, no chaos. Everything has its place, and you quickly learn what truly matters.
First and foremost, living simply. Of course, this has two sides. It can be tough to part with the things you once thought you needed, especially when living in a small space. But over time, it can also be a relief. This was the case for us. I, Denise, can be an impulsive shopper, often heading to second-hand stores for some cute clothes, but there’s only so much room available. This brings peace of mind, as I simply can’t buy too much. Moreover, it’s calming to keep everything organized. Everything has its place. It’s wonderful.
Space-saving storage solutions, such as a slide-out bin or these foldable organizers, can make all the difference in a small space.
2. Better Organization
You’re forced to live efficiently – from how you arrange your belongings to planning every stop. It’s all about strategy.
Of course, this has two sides as well. If you find it difficult to stay organized, it can be tough to maintain order. But in many ways, it’s about pushing yourself, and for us, that’s a good thing. Especially when living together in a camper, efficiency is key. We each have our own little wardrobe, space for our hobbies, and share other essentials. We also have a designated spot for groceries to avoid chaos. It may take a bit more time to stick to these habits, but over time, vanlife has brought us peace.
Check out these handmade vanlife organization accessories, like custom spice racks or hanging shelves.
3. Cost Savings
Compared to rent or a mortgage in a traditional home, vanlife can be much cheaper. You save on rent, utilities, and often daily expenses because you’re often on the move.
This was the main reason why we started vanlife. During COVID, Bailey and I got together. It was a tough time, especially since work was scarce. We were broke after a big trip through Asia and endless flights from Australia to the Netherlands. We specifically chose to live in a van to save money while still having the freedom to live on our own.
We’ve been able to save even more on campground fees by investing in a BOXIO dry toilet, perfect for off-grid living.
4. Work Flexibility
Thanks to the digital nomad lifestyle, many of us can work with a laptop on the couch in our camper. The ultimate workspace at your own pace.
Setting aside the occasional challenge of internet connectivity, living as a digital nomad in a camper is truly ideal. It’s possible to combine travel and work effectively, and who knows, you might even find inspiration in the experiences you encounter along the way. This is true for me! For us, it’s a bonus because we work as seasonal employees at a campsite. Sometimes, they even ask us to bring our own camper to stay in, which is ideal.
A reliable portable Wi-Fi hotspot is a must-have for staying connected on the road.
5. Awareness of Your Ecological Footprint
Living in a camper encourages more sustainable habits, fostering a deeper connection with the environment.
One thing that became clear from the start of living in a camper is how conscious you become of your water consumption, waste, and energy use. It changes the way you think—you don’t leave the tap running endlessly, as your tank will eventually run out and you don’t want to waste water. From start to finish, you’re actively engaged in these considerations: filling up water, checking the sun for solar energy, and managing consumption. It’s a cycle that keeps you constantly aware, and for us, that’s incredibly satisfying.
Consider a water filter to ensure drinkable water and a solar panel kit to harness clean energy and stay sustainable on the go.
6. Less Cleaning
A smaller living space means less cleaning and maintenance.
You might not expect it, but cleaning in a camper is much less work, and we both love that. Cleaning is sometimes unavoidable, especially in such a small space, as everything stands out quickly – think of hair, sand on the floor, or in bed. But the best part is that you see results in no time, which makes cleaning a lot less annoying.
Compact vacuum cleaners designed for small spaces can make tidying up a breeze.
7. No Commute
You wake up wherever you want and avoid the daily grind of commuting.
This may sound typical, but there’s more to it. The usual daily routine fades away. Of course, you can still have your own habits, and we do too, but it’s different. You don’t follow the usual commute to work and back or attend endless meetings. This is where real freedom comes into play. From our experience, we’ve also noticed that we meet like-minded people who share a similar lifestyle. These little things are what truly make vanlife special.
8. Close-Knit Living
Sharing a small space with loved ones can strengthen relationships and create a sense of togetherness.
This is something we both value greatly. Living together can be challenging, but it’s also a way to grow stronger as a couple and improve communication. For us, it works well; we both work and live together, so we’re almost always in each other’s company. However, we also have our own hobbies and tasks that we prefer doing separately, which helps keep the relationship healthy. This is entirely possible in a camper, as long as you openly communicate about what’s important to you.
9. Built-In Adventure
Every new location is an opportunity for a new experience, whether hiking, biking, or simply exploring.
Adventure, yes, that’s definitely part of vanlife. Although it might not always feel as adventurous when you’re stuck inside the camper due to bad weather, those moments pass. The beauty of living in a camper or choosing vanlife for travel is that you always have the option to experience something new! This is something to keep in mind, especially for those who choose to live in their camper full-time rather than just travel.
Plan ahead with destination guides to discover hidden gems and unique experiences along your route.
10. Cooking Flexibility
You can cook wherever you are, whether it’s a roadside stop or a quiet park.
For some, this might seem like a downside due to the small cooking space and limited equipment. For us, it’s a delight. We have a small oven and a nice stove, making it easy to whip up a meal. Plus, traveling through different countries inspires us to try new recipes, especially when some ingredients aren’t as readily available. It’s an adventure in itself—grilling outside with the camp stove on a sunny day, even better when you’re sharing it with new friends you’ve just met. Doesn’t sound too bad, right?
A portable camping stove and an Omnia Oven are game-changing for cooking meals wherever you park for the night.
Vanlife: More Than Just Roadtrips, It’s a Lifestyle!
At the end of the day, vanlife is about finding balance and embracing simplicity. It’s not just the freedom to go anywhere, but the smart, mindful choices that make it sustainable. Whether it’s the joy of less cleaning, the adventure of new places, or the peace of living closer to nature, the practical benefits truly make vanlife a lifestyle we love. For us, it’s not just about a journey, but about living with intention—creating a space that works, both physically and mentally. And that’s the beauty of vanlife: it’s not just a way to travel, it’s a way of life.
