VanLifeWannaBe is designed for people like me, who know they want to pursue the lifestyle in some format, but just aren’t sure how they’re going to get there. This Van Life 101 series will not give you step-by-step direction on how to build out a rig. It’s not going to tell you what vehicle is right for you. It’s not even going to go into too much detail about the specifics of the lifestyle.
Instead, Van Life 101 is going to help provide the base knowledge needed so that you know how to make these decisions. We’re going to provide ideas and resources that will help you decide just what you want your Van Life to look like. It’s my opinion that there is no one way to do Van Life. In fact, you don’t even have to do it in a van. In fact, one of the choices we’ll discuss in great detail is just which vehicle will be right for you.
With these thoughts in mind, let’s get started with Van Life 101. Once you read the articles linked below, you should have a better picture of what your Van Life will look like and hopefully a road map of how to get there.
Van Life 101 Series
The first thing you need to know is that I am not an expert. I’m a Van Life Wanna Be just like you. I have, however, done the research required to start answering all the questions and issues we’re going to face along our journey. Consider all this information a starting point. You’re in charge after that!
1. Is Van Life Right for You?: You’re Asking the Wrong Question!
You’re here, so that first question is a bit silly. Read this one for my take on what Van Life is and why you’re asking the wrong question.
2. Van Life Systems to Consider for Your Build
Even before you select a rig for your Van Life, you need to consider the various systems involved in a daily life on the road. This article covers the basics of those systems, and the articles linked below go into a little more detail on each of those systems.
- Your Bed and Sleeping System
- Electrical System
- Water System
- Toilets and Using the Bathroom
- Cooking
- Food Storage and Refrigeration
- Ventilation
- Heating and Cooling
- Insulation
- Shower and Personal Hygiene
- Lighting
- Storage
- Seating and Living Space
- Internet and Connectivity
- Safety and Security
3. Which Rig is Right for Your Van Life?
Yeah, I’m always referring to it as Van Life, but honestly, it’s more about building a simpler lifestyle that meets your basic needs while also allowing you the freedom to see the world. It might be in a van, but it might be in any number of different vehicles. The article above discusses the various options, and the articles linked below go into more detail about the pros and cons of each rig. I’ve ordered these from most simple to more complicated and involved. Typically, the investment required follows that same path.
- Car Camping
- MiniVans
- Cargo Vans
- Cargo Trailers
- Skoolies
- Shuttle Buses
- Box Trucks, Ambulances, and other Commercial Vehicles
- Travel Trailers
- Class A & B RVs
