Even if your life doesn’t involve dogs and kids, most people want some degree of a normal life. Van life isn’t for everyone. However, if you enjoy spending time outside, have an adventurous spirit, and aren’t afraid of some DIY repairs or minor upgrades to make your van life more comfortable, it could be the perfect fit for you.
No matter why you’re considering making the switch from a sedentary 9-5 job to a nomadic lifestyle as an adult, there are plenty of advantages as well as challenges to consider before taking the plunge. With careful planning and maintenance,
Don’t be afraid to improvise.
When thinking about the transition to full-time van life, there are a few things that may not immediately come to mind as advantages. But there is a very good reason why they’re advantages. You see, there’s a good chance that the only time you planned to go on an extended road trip was when you were a kid dreaming of being a truck driver. But things change. Hopefully, your idea of a good life has grown along with you.
While you may have grown up with the idea of adventure, you probably also have other things on your mind as well. So don’t be afraid to improvise. Think about the things that you love and incorporate them into your new van life.
Enjoy the quiet time you spend outside with your dog. Keep a journal. Create art. Expand your interests by meeting new people and learning new skills. There is no one-size-fits-all life. There is no “right way” to live. So, instead of trying to follow someone else’s blueprint, find out what works best for you.
Learn how to live with less.
There are many ways to save money while van life, but one of the most obvious is to live as cheaply as possible. As with any lifestyle change, this may not be an option for everyone. But if you are able to make this adjustment, you are likely to see a marked reduction in your overall expenses. One of the best ways to save money is to stay mobile as much as possible.
A van can be parked in most cities for much less than a full-time apartment, and is also likely to be warmer and have a bit more space than a small car. To make the most of your travels, get your license wheels before you make the switch to van life. It will provide you with the freedom to explore new places and live where you want when you want.
Set up a reliable camping system.
Living in a van requires some real dedication, as well as a plan for how you’re going to make it work. While it is possible to successfully pull off a nomadic lifestyle without a long-term plan, it is unlikely to be as rewarding as it could be. Setting up a reliable camping system can help you to make it last.
It should include everything that you need for a short-term stay, plus a few pieces of equipment that will help you to transition to a long-term lifestyle. One example of a camping system is a small trailer that is hooked up to your van. This provides storage for your camping equipment, as well as a place to sleep at night.
If wheeling your trailer and camping set-up is not legal where you live, you may want to consider getting a van-dwelling upgrade. Many people choose to add a kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom inside their vehicle. This allows you to travel the country with the essentials you need for a week or two, and to transition easily into a more permanent lifestyle.
Take advantage of your location.
While you may have to travel a bit further to find a job than you’d like, your location can also make van life much more enjoyable. For example, you may live in an area with a rich history and great natural beauty. You may be able to explore and learn about this history and beauty in your local area. Alternatively, you may live in a remote place where there is little to no development.
In this case, you may be able to explore the outdoors in a way that you would never be able to do in a crowded city. Your location can also change the way that you interact with people. While most cities have their share of interesting people, it can be helpful to begin your new lifestyle in a place that is particularly friendly.
Have fun and be safe!
While it is important to have a plan and set goals for your new life, it is also important to have fun. This can be a challenge in the beginning as you adjust to a new lifestyle and figure out exactly how to make it work. It is also important to be safe. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and taking advantage of your location are two ways to ensure that you are having fun and staying safe.
Healthy eating, regular exercise, and stress management are all important for a happy, long life. Fortunately, they are also important for a happy, long life as a van dweller. It is also important to stay safe on the road. A van is safer than a car, but it is still a vehicle and can be dangerous if you are not careful.
Conclusion
There are numerous reasons why van life could be a great option for a person looking to make a change in their life. Whether you have a family or not, live in a big city or rural area, and enjoy the freedom that comes with a nomadic lifestyle, there is a way for you to make the most out of your time on the road.
Make sure that you do your research and decide what is best for your lifestyle and situation. Make sure that you have a plan for making it work, and that you enjoy the process of making that plan come true.
