Embarking on vanlife adventures around the world is more than just a travel choice; it’s a lifestyle that offers freedom, exploration, and a deep connection with nature. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the most enticing destinations for vanlife enthusiasts, each offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.
Where is Vanlife most popular?
Vanlife is most popular in the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. These countries have a lot of open spaces, beautiful scenery, and well-developed infrastructure for van lifers.
In the United States, some of the most popular states for vanlife include California, Utah, Colorado, Oregon, and Arizona. These states have a variety of landscapes to explore, including mountains, deserts, forests, and beaches. There are also many public lands in these states where van lifers can boondock, or camp for free.
In Canada, some of the most popular provinces for vanlife include British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario. These provinces offer stunning scenery, with mountains, lakes, and forests. There are also many national parks in these provinces where van lifers can camp.
In Australia, some of the most popular states for vanlife include Western Australia, Queensland, and New South Wales. These states offer a variety of landscapes, including beaches, rainforests, and deserts. There are also many national parks in these states where van lifers can camp.
In New Zealand, some of the most popular regions for vanlife include the North Island and the South Island. These islands offer stunning scenery, with mountains, glaciers, and beaches. There are also many national parks in New Zealand where van lifers can camp.
Vanlife is also becoming increasingly popular in other parts of the world, such as Europe, South America, and Africa. As more people discover the joys of vanlife, we can expect to see it become even more popular in the years to come.
Here are some additional factors that contribute to the popularity of vanlife in the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand:
- A strong culture of outdoor recreation: These countries have a long tradition of outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and fishing. Vanlife is a natural extension of this culture, allowing people to explore the outdoors in a more comfortable and convenient way.
- A relatively well-developed infrastructure for van lifers: These countries have a good network of roads, campgrounds, and other amenities that are accessible to vans and RVs. This makes it easy for van lifers to travel and find places to stay.
- A relatively low cost of living: The cost of living in these countries is relatively low compared to other developed countries, such as the United Kingdom and Western Europe. This makes it more affordable for people to travel and live full-time in a van.
Overall, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand are the most popular places for vanlife due to their combination of natural beauty, outdoor culture, and well-developed infrastructure.
Top 10 Places to Go Vanlife Around the World
Maui, Hawaii, USA
Maui, an island paradise in Hawaii, beckons vanlifers with its pristine beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant culture. Vanlife enthusiasts can bask in the sun on the famous Road to Hana, a winding coastal road, and relish beachfront camping in the island’s welcoming communities.
Experience the Hawaiian culture, hike through lush rainforests, and swim beneath mesmerizing waterfalls. To make the most of your Maui vanlife adventure, respect the island’s natural beauty and connect with the local community.
New Zealand
New Zealand, a land of breathtaking landscapes, invites vanlifers to explore its diverse beauty. Rolling hills, snow-capped peaks, and pristine lakes set the scene for vanlife adventures. The country’s Freedom Camping Act allows for freedom camping in many areas, granting vanlifers the opportunity to connect with nature.
Engage in thrilling activities like bungee jumping, hiking in the Southern Alps, or simply relaxing in natural hot springs. To fully savor New Zealand’s natural wonders, respect the environment, and follow local guidelines for responsible camping.
Australia
Australia, with its vast deserts, tropical rainforests, and vibrant cities, offers a kaleidoscope of experiences for vanlifers. The country’s extensive network of campgrounds and free camping areas provides ample opportunities for vanlife enthusiasts to connect with the land.
Discover the beauty of the Outback, snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef, or explore cosmopolitan cities. When vanlife takes you to Australia, prioritize sustainability, reduce waste, and tread lightly on this awe-inspiring continent.
Iceland
Iceland, a land of fire and ice, is an idyllic destination for vanlife explorers. With its dramatic landscapes, including glaciers, volcanoes, and waterfalls, the country offers freedom to roam and discover untouched beauty.
Explore the Golden Circle, soak in geothermal hot springs, and witness the Northern Lights. To protect Iceland’s fragile environment, practice Leave No Trace principles and adhere to local camping regulations.
Norway
Norway’s majestic fjords, pristine wilderness, and charming coastal towns create a captivating playground for vanlife enthusiasts. The country’s liberal Right to Roam law allows for free camping in many areas, enhancing the vanlife experience.
Embrace outdoor adventures like hiking in the fjords, exploring Viking history, and cruising through the iconic Geirangerfjord. When vanlife leads you to Norway, respect local customs and support sustainability.
Scotland
Scotland, a land of rugged beauty, welcomes vanlifers with its untamed landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Vanlife enthusiasts can embrace the country’s tradition of wild camping, providing opportunities to connect with the land.
Discover ancient castles, explore the Highlands, and savor the spirit of Scottish clans. To make the most of your vanlife adventure in Scotland, appreciate the wilderness and maintain its pristine condition.
Portugal
Portugal, with its warm climate, stunning coastlines, and historic cities, offers vanlifers a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. The country’s vanlife-friendly attitude allows for diverse camping experiences.
Enjoy sunny beaches, explore historic cities like Lisbon, and taste delicious cuisine. When vanlife leads you to Portugal, engage with local culture, respect the environment, and camp responsibly.
Spain
Spain, a tapestry of landscapes and vibrant culture, is an ideal destination for vanlife enthusiasts. From sandy beaches to mountain villages, Spain offers a range of vanlife experiences.
Delight in the vibrant festivals, savor tapas in bustling cities, and relax on Mediterranean shores. When vanlife calls you to Spain, embrace the local traditions and leave a positive impact on the places you visit.
Canada
Canada, with its expansive wilderness and diverse ecosystems, welcomes vanlifers with open arms. The country’s vast network of campgrounds and freedom camping areas ensures an array of camping experiences.
Explore the stunning Canadian Rockies, kayak in pristine lakes, and spot wildlife in its natural habitat. When vanlife takes you to Canada, be mindful of wildlife conservation and environmental stewardship.
Argentina
Argentina’s dramatic landscapes, from the Andes to the Pampas, offer a diverse canvas for vanlife adventures. The country’s warm culture and hospitality enhance the vanlife experience.
Savor Argentine cuisine, explore Patagonian wilderness, and dance to the rhythms of tango. When vanlife leads you to Argentina, engage with the local communities and respect the natural beauty of the land.
South Africa
South Africa’s enchanting blend of wildlife, landscapes, and vibrant cities offers vanlifers an array of experiences. The country’s national parks and diverse camping options provide opportunities to connect with nature.
Go on a safari adventure, explore the Garden Route, and savor traditional cuisine. When vanlife takes you to South Africa, support wildlife conservation and embrace the local culture.
Conclusion
Venturing into vanlife around the world offers an unrivaled journey that celebrates freedom, nature, and cultural diversity. The ten destinations presented here each have their own unique charm, beckoning vanlife enthusiasts to explore their wonders. As you plan your vanlife adventures, remember to prioritize sustainability, responsible camping, and the preservation of the remarkable beauty that our world has to offer.
