Vanlife Basics

Vanlife is a movement where people live or travel full-time in a customized van. It offers freedom and adventure, but requires careful planning and preparation.

1. Choosing and Customizing Your Van

The foundation of vanlife is your vehicle. Your choice depends on your budget, travel style, and how much space you need.

Common Van Types

Van Type	Key Characteristic	Best For
Cargo Vans	Spacious, customizable interior	Full-time living and complex builds
Passenger Vans	Already have windows/seating	Budget-friendly, simpler conversions
Conversion Vans	Already partially built out	Travelers who want comfort without a full DIY build

Essential Components of a Van Build

• Insulation: Keeps the van warm in winter and cool in summer. Proper insulation also reduces road noise.
• Ventilation: A fan or window vents are crucial for air circulation and preventing condensation, especially when cooking or sleeping.
• Power System: This typically involves solar panels, a charge controller, a battery bank (like lithium-ion or AGM), and an inverter.
• Water System: Includes a fresh water tank and a gray water tank for the sink and shower.
• Kitchen: Many vans include a sink, a small refrigerator or cooler, and a portable stove.

2. Power Management

A reliable electrical setup is key to comfort and is often the most complex part of a van build.

Power System Components

• Solar Panels: Mounted on the roof, they convert sunlight into electricity.
• Charge Controller: Regulates the power flow from the solar panels to the battery bank, preventing overcharging.
• Battery Bank: Stores the energy gathered from solar and shore power (if applicable).
• Inverter: Converts the DC power from your batteries to AC power, which is used for household appliances.

3. Safety and Security

Staying safe on the road is the highest priority.

Vehicle Safety

• Regularly check your tires, oil, and fluid levels.
• Keep a basic roadside emergency kit in the van, including jumper cables, a first-aid kit, and an extra tire.

Personal Security

• Always lock your doors and windows, especially at night.
• Use blackout curtains to ensure privacy and make it harder for people to see if anyone is inside.
• Be discreet about your setup. Avoid drawing unnecessary attention to your van, particularly when parked in urban areas.
• Consider installing a hidden safe for valuable items.

4. Finding a Place to Park

Parking legally and safely is one of the biggest challenges in vanlife.

• Public Lands: In the US, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and National Forest land often allow free camping for up to 14 days.
• Businesses: Some large retail chains permit overnight parking. Always ask a manager for permission first.
• Campgrounds: These offer facilities like hookups for power and water, as well as amenities. They are a good option for a safe and guaranteed spot.