Van life is a fun one. Something always lurks around every corner, making the mystery much more exciting. My family has traveled 15,000 miles or more in our van for the last four years. Here are some tips to make transitioning from traditional home to a home on wheels much easier.
Keeping Clean Is Life
During our three-week road trip, we quickly realized that organization made life easier and more enjoyable. Every three to four days, we would find a scenic spot to park and take time to clean up. One of us would cook while the other tidied the van, and in about an hour, we had a clean “home,” a hot meal, and the perfect spot to enjoy the view. Establishing a regular cleaning routine kept things from piling up and becoming overwhelming.
Laundry was another task we managed without much hassle. We washed clothes whenever it was convenient, which was typically about once a week. We kept dirty clothes in a bag tucked away from sight, which helped keep the van tidy and free of clutter.
Unlike at home, where dishes can often be left for later, van life requires a different mindset. After each meal, we made it a habit to wash, dry, and put away the dishes immediately. This kept the space feeling more spacious and ensured we were always ready for the next adventure.
We repurposed grocery store bags for trash, making it easy to dispose of waste at the next stop. The small bags didn’t take up much space, and tossing them out regularly kept the van clean and odor-free.
Pack Clothes Wisely
When it comes to packing clothes for van life, simplicity and versatility are key. We packed about a week’s worth of socks and undergarments for our trip, keeping things manageable without constantly doing laundry.
I recommend choosing versatile pieces that can be worn in various situations. For example, leggings are perfect because you can dress them up for a city outing, pair them with a sleeveless top for hiking, or wear them with an oversized t-shirt for lounging or sleeping. Keeping your wardrobe in a similar color palette also makes mixing and matching much easier, so you can get more outfits out of fewer pieces.
Don’t forget to pack a swimsuit, it’s always a necessity, whether you’re headed to the beach, a hot spring, or a swimming hole.
As for shoes, I recommend bringing along a good pair of hiking shoes, comfortable sandals, and a pair of Hey Dudes or another casual shoe for leisurely walks or hanging around camp.
If you’re a part-time van lifer like us, consider packing a set of essentials and ready for spontaneous adventures. Having these items on hand can save you a lot of time when the urge to hit the road strikes!
Prepare For Emergencies
Preparing for emergencies is an important part of van life, whether it involves your vehicle or personal safety.
For the vehicle, having a portable jump starter and ensuring a spare tire is on hand are crucial. It’s also worth signing up for roadside assistance through your auto insurance as well. We pay only an extra $5 a month for this service, and it’s worth the peace of mind.
Having a small toolbox with basic tools is also a smart idea, but if that’s not feasible, many auto parts stores offer a loan-a-tool program. We once relied on this service in Amarillo, where they allowed us to borrow tools since we were fixing the issue in their parking lot.
A well-stocked first aid kit is a must for personal safety. Bumps, scrapes, and minor injuries are bound to happen when you’re out and about, so being prepared will save you hassle.
A good flashlight is another essential item, as it can be helpful for everything from changing a tire at night to signaling for help or simply finding your way in the dark.
Have A Plan
When we hit the road, we always have a general plan of where we want to go, but van life teaches you to stay flexible. Sometimes, things change unexpectedly. For instance, during the summer of 2020, we initially planned to head to Seattle and Portland, but due to the political climate at the time, we rerouted to Craters of the Moon National Park. It was a fantastic experience, and we were glad we adapted.
Even something as simple as a gas station or restroom break can become an adventure. We once stopped in Gualala, California, for a quick break, and I wandered into a local grocery store across the street. That little detour was so memorable that I’m still talking about it today!
Another important aspect of planning is being prepared for alternate sleeping arrangements. While our van comfortably fit the four of us, there were times when a hotel room offered a nice retreat. It allowed us to take longer showers and do some laundry, which was a refreshing change of pace after days on the road.
Embrace Off-grid Living
Going off the grid is one of the more unique aspects of van life, but it can be quite manageable with a little preparation. For restroom needs, we carry a seat and a shovel, allowing us to handle things respectfully and ecologically. We dig a decent-sized hole, take care of business, and cover it up afterward. We also bring along a bag to dispose of used toilet paper. At first, it feels awkward, but it becomes just another part of the routine after a while. That said, we rarely have to use this method since we typically stay near restrooms.
When it comes to staying clean, we set up an outdoor shower area with a shower tent when necessary. We use Dude Wipes or similar products between those setups to keep fresh. We also budgeted to get a hotel or campsite every five or six days to enjoy a proper shower and extra comfort.
One way we’ve made off-grid life more comfortable is by following the weather. We aim to camp in places with pleasant temperatures, so we’ve never really needed AC or a heater. Instead, we rely on our rooftop vent and windows to maintain airflow, keeping things cool and comfortable inside the van.
Final Thoughts On Smoothing Into Van Life
Easing into van life doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With thoughtful planning, the right gear, and a flexible mindset, it can be an incredibly rewarding way to travel and explore. Whether you’re hitting the road full-time or just dipping your toes into part-time van life, the key is adapting and enjoying the freedom of this unique lifestyle.
Remember, every challenge is just another opportunity for a memorable experience. So, pack up, hit the road, and embrace the journey, because van life is about finding adventure wherever the road leads you.
Are you considering transitioning to van life? Let us know in the comments!
