Have you ever scrolled on your Instagram or TikTok feed and saw someone living their best life on the road? It may have even looked like they were having more fun than you are at home. A lot of people are now van lifers and are traveling all around the world. They say that it’s about finding yourself and enjoying the simple things in life. It’s not just about the destination, but about the journey.
If you’re thinking about becoming a van lifer, there are a few things you should know. It’s not as glamorous as it looks on social media. You will have to get used to living in close quarters and being okay with not having all the luxuries of home. But, if you can make your van feel like home, it will be worth it. Here are a few tips on how to make your van feel like home on the road:
1. Make sure you have comfortable bedding. You will be spending a lot of time in your bed, so make sure it’s comfortable. Get a mattress that you can fold up during the day so you have more space. Add some soft sheets and cozy blankets. You should also bring pillows for sleeping and for sitting up in bed.
2. Bring along some portable solar charging stations. There’s no electricity in most vans, so you’ll need to rely on solar power to charge your devices. A portable solar charging station is great for keeping your devices charged while you’re on the road. You can also use them to power small appliances like a mini fridge or a coffee maker.
3. Stock up on non-perishable food. When you’re living in a van, you won’t always have access to a kitchen. So, it’s important to stock up on non-perishable food items that you can eat on the road. Granola bars, nuts, and dried fruit are all great options. You should also bring along some easy-to-prepare meals, like instant oatmeal or ramen noodles.
4. Get a storage system. Once you start living in your van, you’ll quickly realize that space is limited. So, it’s important to have a good storage system in place. There are a variety of options available, from storage bins to shelves. Choose a system that will work best for you and your belongings.
5. Bring along some entertainment. When you’re living in a van, there will be times when you’re stuck inside because of bad weather or you just don’t feel like going outside. So, it’s important to have some form of entertainment with you. Books, magazines, and portable game systems are all great options.
6. Have a plan for when things go wrong. When you’re living in a van, things will inevitably go wrong from time to time. So, it’s important to have a plan for when these things happen. Make sure you have a list of emergency phone numbers, a first-aid kit, and a spare tire. You should also know how to change a tire and jump-start a battery. Aside from that, having a map of the region and knowing where the closest hospital is a convenience. In the event of an emergency, you should also have a supply of cash on hand.
7. Keep your van clean. When you’re living in close quarters, it’s important to keep your van clean. Otherwise, it will start to feel cramped and uncomfortable. Sweep out the floor regularly and wipe down surfaces with a disinfectant. You should also invest in some air fresheners to keep the van smelling fresh.
8. Personalize your space. One of the best ways to make your van feel like home is to personalize the space. Add some photos or posters on the walls. Bring along some of your favorite books and magazines. And, make sure to pack some comfortable clothes that you can relax in.
9. Stay organized. When you’re living in a van, it’s important to stay organized. Otherwise, things will start to feel chaotic quickly. Keep a small notebook with you to jot down things like where you parked or where the nearest gas station is. You should also keep track of your belongings and put them in designated spots.
Living in a van can be a great experience. But, it’s important to make sure your van feels like home. By following these tips, you can make your van feel like home on the road.
Have you been on the road? What tips do you have for making your van feel like home on the road? Let us know in the comments!
