Is Full-Time Van Life Right for You?
Learn all about the #vanlife movement, including the pros and cons, as well as tips and tricks for becoming a full-time vandweller
The phenomenon that is #VanLife isn’t completely new. A nomadic lifestyle has always held a certain appeal to the genuinely adventurous. As the saying goes: “life on the road is a life well lived” — and the countless Instagram photos that are tagged with #vanlife truly makes this lifestyle seem idyllic.
But is it all it’s cracked up to be? And will you really be happy living on the road full-time in 60-square feet of space or less?
While only you can discover the answer to that question for yourself, below we provide some background about the #vanlife movement. We also give some tips and resources to help you decide if it’s the right lifestyle for you. But before we talk more about the intricacies of #vanlife, we invite you to browse our inventory of new and used Class B campervans and motorhomes for sale. At Classic Vans, we stock newer low-mile used vehicles as well as brand new vans, with prices ranging from the high $30s and up. We’re always taking in new rigs on trade, so check back often.
Who knows — we may have just received the gem you’ve been looking for!
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What is #vanlife?
“Van life” is a new term for a classic lifestyle of living on the road. In fact, the modern movement can trace its roots back to the heavily customized vans of the 1970s, and even converted miniature motorhomes found in the 1920s. The hashtag “#vanlife” originated in 2012, when Foster Huntington ditched his corporate job and started living in his van full-time. Over the years, he documented his adventures of life on the road on Instagram. Since then, the hashtag’s popularity has grown as more and more people share their nomadic lifestyle on social media. While #vanlife means many different things to many different people, this alternative lifestyle generally involves living out of one’s preferred home on wheels full-time — or at least a majority of the year.
Though a majority of people who belong in the #vanlife community live out of camper vans, minivans, class B motorhomes and custom conversion vans, individuals who live in pickup trucks, RVs and converted school buses also consider themselves members of this group.
#VanLife is less about the type of vehicle you call home, and more about a nomadic way of life that values simplicity, freedom and adventure.
For an in-depth look into the #VanLife movement, including what it is and the pros/cons of this lifestyle, consider watching this free YouTube documentary.
Best Types of Vans to Live Out of Full-Time
Like many things these days, the #vanlife movement has active Instagram and Twitter/X feeds where members of the community share pictures of their beloved homes on wheels — from American-made full-size Dodge and Chevrolet vans, to smaller European-based vans like the Volkswagen Kombi bus (often with Westfalia camper enhancements, sometimes called the “VW Transporter”) and Mercedes Sprinter/Marco Polo vans. Other popular vans include Chinook RVs, Ford Transits and Ram Promasters (with camper modifications). Here’s a list of several van manufacturers most commonly found in the #vanlife community:
See our full list of North American class B manufacturers.
What are the benefits of #vanlife?
Freedom
Having the flexibility to go virtually anywhere you want, possibly whenever you want, is one of the major advantages of this lifestyle. Whether you’d like to visit friends across the country, live part-time in a few of your favorite places, or tour all of the national parks, the freedom that #vanlife allows opens up an entire world of possibilities that few other lifestyles can offer.
Simplicity
One of the side effects of living in a small space such as a campervan or motorhome is that it becomes difficult to accumulate “stuff.” This lifestyle often forces people to simplify and declutter their lives, which can be immensely gratifying. A simple and straightforward lifestyle such as this can help people prioritize what’s most important and get rid of the excess and unnecessary.
Affordability
Though the initial cost of buying a campervan can be expensive, the typical #vanlife lifestyle is quite affordable and cost effective — especially when you consider not having to pay monthly rent and utilities. While you may have to pay site fees depending on where you park, frugal vandwellers who move slowly, cook often, and enjoy the simple life can live for a while on very little income.
Travel
One of the obvious perks of #vanlife is your ability to pick up and go practically anywhere. This lifestyle is especially suited to those who love to meet new people, see new places and try new experiences. Rarely do people in this community describe their life as routine, repetitive or boring. And if you don’t like the weather where you’re at, simply drive down the road a little until you find someplace nicer!
Comfort
While anyone can travel, only vandwellers have the ability to take so many of their creature comforts with them when they go. With a campervan, motorhome or RV, you’ll never have to worry about where you’re going to sleep (or go to the bathroom). Plus, most campervans have a small kitchen, allowing you to have home-cooked meals on the road. As the popular saying goes: “Home is where you park it.”
Independence
The humdrums and routines of regular life can wear on some people. Living in a van full-time helps break down these routines and allows you to set your own schedule and agenda. Full-time van dwelling provides you more opportunity to create your own lifestyle based on your unique values, goals and desires — without having to be reliant on anyone but yourself to decide what’s best for you.What are some disadvantages of #vanlife?
Amenities
Unless you purchase a high-end luxury motorhome, chances are you may not have access to all of the amenities and utilities you might be used to in a traditional home. For instance, many vandwellers must learn how to live without an in-home shower, dishwasher and laundry machine. While you can still shower and do laundry elsewhere, it might not be available in your #vanlife home — and this may take some getting used to.Space
When you are living full-time in 60 square feet or less, things can get pretty tight — especially if you have a travel companion (human or pet). If you highly value your personal space, then this lifestyle might not be for you. People who want to bring a lot of “stuff” and gear might also have a hard time fitting everything. On the flip side, being forced to live in a small space is a great way to learn how to simplify and organize. Cleaning is a breeze, too!Relationships
The #vanlife community is certainly full of amazing and interesting people, and you can always make new friends. But some people find it difficult to keep up with close friends or family back home when they move around so much. You may experience occasional homesickness as well. In addition, if you’re traveling with a companion or partner, relationships may become strained when living in such close proximity for a long time.
This list of pros and cons of #vanlife is by no means applicable for everyone. For instance, some people might find that the lifestyle is not as cost-effective as they thought it would be. Others might discover that their friendships and relationships actually improved when they started living on the road full-time and joined this community.
Ultimately, the advantages and disadvantages of the #vanlife lifestyle depends on your individual preferences, needs and desires.
Vandwelling Tips, Tricks and Hacks
“Glampervanning” around North America can be an unforgettable experience that you’ll remember for the rest of your life. However, at times it can also be frustrating if you don’t plan carefully. Essential planning can involve everything from knowing where your next fuel stop is to gaining access to Class A/Class C-only campgrounds (most #vanlife campers are considered Class B).Being a nomad in the 21st century may take some planning, but your life is yours to do with as you please – so live it your way and at your own pace!
Here are some tips and resources to keep in mind along the way:
Repeat after me: “It’s going to take some getting used to.”
If you’re thinking about taking up #vanlife, accept that there are some lifestyle differences that might require some adjustment. It’s okay if you need time to get used to the new normal. Be patient and open to learning. Before long, you’ll be a pro!Embrace the space (or lack thereof)
While space may be limited in your home on wheels, the whole point is to enjoy the various destinations you travel to. Take advantage of the fresh air and the views whenever you can.
Pro tip: Purchase a quality bug screen so that you can leave your windows and doors open while sleeping without getting eaten alive by mosquitoes and other pests.
Get an OBD II code reader
Another suggestion from #vanlife veterans is to buy an OBD II code reader. That way if your “check engine” light comes on, you can diagnose how serious the issue is before continuing on your trek or stopping at the nearest RV mechanic. These readers are also available as an app on your phone (with the purchase of the correct cable). Having this tech can save you some real cash, as most auto parts stores will diagnose codes for free.Relax and live in the moment
Another common difficulty of #vanlife is how hard it can be to slow your life down. Do yourself a favor and try not to dwell on “what’s next?” — instead simply live in the moment. For starters, don’t speed down the road. What’s the rush? Take things slower.Get friendly with the locals
Are you in a new place you’ve never been before? Consider asking local people about the best things to do and see. Avoid relying on Internet reviews to guide you along your journey whenever possible. Instead, form your own itinerary based on the feedback of people who actually live in the area.Be healthy, shop local
Another positive that #vanlife folks consistently report is that they have a healthier lifestyle due to the amount of physical activity they get and how they cook their meals using more local ingredients (because there isn’t room to store bulk items). This is a great reason to be more conscientious of what’s going into your meals.
Pro tip: Need help with meal prep? Consider a solar fridge. That’s right, a solar panel-powered refrigerator. They’ll cost you upfront, but it will pay many more dividends down the road as you boondock across the country.
Take advantage of free (and low-cost) fun
Many vandwellers are frugal. Fortunately, the van lifestyle is conducive to those who like to have a good time without spending a pretty penny. Seek out free places to stay, free entertainment and free things to do. Also, take advantage of free or low-cost tools to save some cash. For instance, there are various apps that can help you save on gas (a big expense if you’re moving your campervan or motorhome frequently). For example, if you’re filling up a 30-gallon tank and the price difference between two gas stations is $0.15, that’s a $4.50 difference. Imagine saving that cash 10 times over and you start to get the picture of how much it can save you in the long-term. Another piece of advice is to purchase an annual National Parks Pass if you plan to visit multiple national parks. It costs just $80 per vehicle (not per person). This pass will get you access to more than 2,000 federal recreational sites across the U.S., some of which can charge up to $25 per person to enter.
Pro tip: Many vandwellers buy a cheap gym membership as a low-cost way to exercise, take a shower, and use free wifi. Look for affordable gyms that operate nationally and are open 24 hours — that way you can check your email, do some curls, and hose down after a long day.
Other resources
Visit our Knowledge Center for lots of informative and helpful articles about travel and camper vans, including:
- Watch this video on “Van Life Essentials” from a Toronto-based couple who live full-time in their converted Mercedes Sprinter van
- Check out this fascinating look into #vanlife through the story of a woman who lived in her van for 2 years
- The entire YouTube channel of Living The Van Life is chock full of helpful videos
- What if it’s cold outside? Check out these 10 #vanlife cold weather tips
- Read this article from the popular automotive-based website Jalopnik about one vandweller who rode out a winter storm in his van while living in the Cascades
Mini Camper Vans:
Why Class B Campers Are Your Best Buy
Ready to Begin Your Own #Vanlife Adventure? Visit Classic Vans
Are you ready to enjoy the comforts of home while embarking on your next adventure? Here at Classic Vans, we sell a wide variety of Class B motorhomes, camper vans and camper minivans. We find that these travel vehicles are the most economical, cost-effective way to join the #vanlife community.
Whether new or used, our custom travel vans are self-contained and offer all of the comforts of an RV without the hassles. Easier storage and drivability are two advantages of a camper van over an RV. Cost is another advantage – including fuel costs.
And with our unbeatable flat-rate, nationwide delivery, Classic Vans can deliver your new camper van to your home or office in mere days!
“This is my 13th RV. I was fortunate to find this gem of a company! We actually completed the entire transaction over the phone and emails. Final result was a fair price, both on purchase and on trade in. I found a few little replacement parts needed and Nancy took care of them all. Marty in service answered all of my questions the same day. Jordan, in sales, was responsive, fair and equitable. All in all, a most positive experience. I would give them more than 5 stars if I could.”
Ron V from California
Verified Customer
If you’re ready to take the next step of beginning your vanlife, check out our inventory of camper vans for sale at Classic Vans. We want to help you find the best home on wheels.
Contact us online or give us a call toll-free at (866) 370-8222 to discuss specific van models or to learn more.