This article is about the essential safety gear that vanlifers should have to ensure their safety while on the road or camping in remote areas. The article provides a comprehensive list of safety gear that vanlifers should consider having in their vans to prepare for emergencies and unexpected situations.
Vanlife is an exciting way to travel and explore the world on your own terms. Whether you’re a full-time van lifer or just enjoy taking extended road trips in your van, safety should always be a top priority.
When you’re living in a van, you’ll be facing different types of risks and challenges than you would in a traditional home. Being prepared for unexpected situations is crucial to your safety and well-being.
Fire extinguisher:
One of the most essential safety gear that every van lifer should have is a fire extinguisher. In case of a fire, a fire extinguisher can quickly put out the flames before they cause severe damage. Make sure to get a multi-purpose fire extinguisher that is rated for Class A, B, and C fires.
Smoke and carbon monoxide detector:
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are a must-have safety gear for vanlifers. They can help you detect any potential danger from smoke or carbon monoxide buildup in your van. Make sure to install one near the sleeping area and test them regularly to ensure they’re working correctly.
First aid kit:
A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any van lifer. When you’re living on the road, you’re likely to encounter cuts, bruises, and other minor injuries. Having a first aid kit with bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and other essential items can help you treat injuries quickly and prevent them from getting worse.
Emergency communication device:
When you’re traveling in remote areas, having a reliable communication device can be a lifesaver. Whether it’s a satellite phone, a personal locator beacon, or a two-way radio, having a way to communicate with the outside world can help you get help quickly in case of an emergency.
Flashlights and headlamps:
Vanlifers often camp in remote areas without any street lights and having reliable flashlights and headlamps can help you navigate in the dark. Make sure to keep spare batteries and bulbs in case of an emergency.
GPS device:
A GPS device can be a valuable tool for vanlifers who travel in remote areas. It can help you navigate unfamiliar terrain and find your way back to civilization if you get lost. Make sure to keep your GPS device updated with the latest maps and software.
Tire repair kit:
Flat tires can happen anytime, anywhere, and having a tire repair kit can help you get back on the road quickly. Make sure to have a tire repair kit that includes a tire patch kit, tire plugs, and a tire gauge.
Jumper cables:
Dead batteries can be a common problem for vanlifers, and having a set of jumper cables can help you get your van started in case of a dead battery. Make sure to keep your jumper cables in good condition and know how to use them correctly.
Portable jump starter:
A portable jump starter is a useful safety gear that can help you jump-start your van without the need for another vehicle. Make sure to get a portable jump starter that’s powerful enough for your van’s battery and keep it charged at all times.
Emergency blankets:
Emergency blankets are lightweight, and compact, and can help you stay warm in case of an emergency. Make sure to have a few emergency blankets in your van, especially if you’re traveling in cold weather.
Water:
Water is essential for life, and having a sufficient supply of clean drinking water is crucial for vanlifers. Make sure to have a water filtration system, water bottles, and a water storage tank in your van. You can also consider carrying water purification tablets as a backup.
Emergency food supply:
In case of an emergency or unexpected situation, having an emergency food supply can be a lifesaver. Make sure to have non-perishable foods like canned goods, energy bars, and dried fruits in your van.
Roadside emergency kit:
A roadside emergency kit can help you deal with unexpected situations on the road. Make sure to have a kit that includes items like a flashlight, reflective triangles, a tire gauge, a multi-tool, and a tire inflator.
Personal protection gear:
Personal protection gear like pepper spray or a personal alarm can help you protect yourself in case of an attack. It’s always better to be prepared and have a way to defend yourself if the need arises.
Water:
Water is essential for life, and having a sufficient supply of clean drinking water is crucial for vanlifers. Make sure to have a water filtration system, water bottles, and a water storage tank in your van. You can also consider carrying water purification tablets as a backup.
Emergency food supply:
In case of an emergency or unexpected situation, having an emergency food supply can be a lifesaver. Make sure to have non-perishable foods like canned goods, energy bars, and dried fruits in your van.
Roadside emergency kit:
A roadside emergency kit can help you deal with unexpected situations on the road. Make sure to have a kit that includes items like a flashlight, reflective triangles, a tire gauge, a multi-tool, and a tire inflator.
Personal protection gear:
Personal protection gear like pepper spray or a personal alarm can help you protect yourself in case of an attack. It’s always better to be prepared and have a way to defend yourself if the need arises.
Conclusion:
As a van lifer, your safety should always be a top priority. Being prepared for unexpected situations and having the essential safety gear in your van can help you stay safe and secure on the road.
Make sure to have a fire extinguisher, smoke and carbon monoxide detector, first aid kit, emergency communication device, flashlights and headlamps, GPS device, tire repair kit, jumper cables, portable jump starter, emergency blankets, water, emergency food supply, roadside emergency kit, and personal protection gear in your van.
Remember to regularly check and maintain your safety gear to ensure they’re always in good working condition.
