Life on the Road: The Ultimate Van Packing List
Why Van Life Is Gaining Popularity
In recent years, van life has become a popular trend among young people who wish to break free from the constraints of traditional living. Instead of working non-stop to pay for rent and bills, individuals are choosing to downsize their belongings and convert vans or other vehicles into comfortable, mobile homes.
Van life allows for complete freedom and flexibility in terms of location and lifestyle. Van life is gaining popularity because it offers an escape from the monotony of everyday life.
It gives individuals the opportunity to explore new places, meet new people, and experience new things. Living in a van also means that one can live more sustainably by reducing their carbon footprint and living with fewer possessions.
The Importance of Having a Well-Equipped Van
Living in a van may seem romantic at first glance, but without proper preparation, it can quickly turn into a nightmare. That's why having a well-equipped van is crucial for anyone looking to live this lifestyle comfortably.
A well-equipped van ensures that one has all the necessary tools and equipment needed for daily living on the road. From bedding to storage containers, kitchen essentials to entertainment items, each aspect plays an important role in creating a comfortable home on wheels.
Having everything organised and easily accessible also means less stress and more time spent enjoying adventures on the road. A properly equipped van is not only practical but essential for anyone looking to make their dream of living this unique lifestyle come true.
The Essentials
Bedding: Mattress, Sheets, Blankets, Pillows
When it comes to van life, one of the most important things you need for a good night's sleep is a comfortable bed. While some people choose to sleep on the floor or a cot, investing in a quality mattress can make all the difference. Memory foam mattresses are a popular choice for their comfort and compactness.
Don't forget to pack sheets, blankets and pillows as well. Opt for materials that are easy to clean and don't take up too much space.
Kitchen: Stove, Cookware, Utensils, Dishes, Cooler/Fridge
Having a functional kitchen is essential for van life. A portable stove with propane tanks is perfect if you plan on cooking outside your van frequently. Make sure you bring along pots and pans that are durable yet lightweight enough to carry around.
Don't forget utensils like spatulas and tongs as well as plates and bowls that are sturdy enough not to break during travel. A cooler or fridge will also come in handy for storing perishable items like milk and cheese.
Bathroom: Portable Toilet/Shower, Toiletries
One of the biggest challenges of van life is figuring out bathroom situations on the road. A portable toilet can be a lifesaver when there are no rest stops nearby or public restrooms available.
You'll also want to pack toiletries like toothpaste, shampoo and soap so you can stay clean while living off-grid. If you're planning on showering in your van regularly, consider investing in a portable shower with water tanks.
Storage: Containers/Bins for Clothes and Gear
In order to keep your van tidy and organized it's important to have adequate storage solutions in place. Plastic containers or bins that fit under your bed or in overhead cabinets are great for storing clothes, shoes and gear. Make sure you label everything clearly so you can find what you need quickly.
Lighting: Battery-Powered Lights or Solar Panels
Having lighting in your van is crucial, especially if you plan on doing any reading or cooking at night. Battery-powered lights are a good option as they don't require installation, but solar panels can be a more sustainable and long-term solution. You can install them on the roof of your van and use them to power not only your lights, but also appliances like your fridge.
Power Source: Solar Panels or Generator
To power all of your electronic devices like phones, laptops and cameras, you'll need a reliable power source. While generators are powerful and dependable, they can be noisy and require fuel to run.
On the other hand, solar panels are quiet and eco-friendly but may not provide enough energy for high-power demands. Consider both options when deciding what's best for your lifestyle.
Navigation Tools: Maps/GPS
When living on the road it's important to have tools that help with navigation. Maps are great for when technology fails or when there is no cell service available.
A GPS device can also come in handy if you're travelling through unfamiliar areas. Make sure to have backups of both items in case one fails or gets lost during travel.
Clothing and Gear
Clothing for all weather conditions
When it comes to van life, you never know what the weather will bring. That's why it's essential to be prepared with clothing for all types of conditions.
A good rule of thumb is to pack layers that can easily be added or removed as needed. Start with a base layer made of moisture-wicking material, such as merino wool or synthetic fabric, to help regulate your body temperature.
From there, add a fleece or down jacket for warmth, and a rain jacket or windbreaker for protection against the elements. Don't forget about your feet!
Invest in a good pair of waterproof hiking boots that provide support and traction on uneven terrain. Socks are also important - consider packing wool socks that wick away moisture and keep your feet dry and warm.
Hiking boots/shoes
A big part of van life is exploring the great outdoors, so having reliable footwear is essential. Look for hiking boots or shoes that are comfortable and provide enough support for long hikes. A sturdy sole with good traction is important to prevent slips and falls on uneven terrain.
It's also worth investing in a pair of water-resistant boots or shoes to keep your feet dry during rainy hikes. If you plan on doing any water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding, consider packing water shoes that can get wet without ruining them.
Backpacks/daypacks
A backpack or daypack is essential for carrying your belongings during hikes and outdoor adventures. Look for one with multiple compartments so you can easily organise your gear.
It's also important to choose one that's comfortable to wear - look for padded straps and back panels. Consider packing a smaller daypack as well - perfect for short hikes when you don't need all your gear, but want essentials like water bottles, snacks, and a map easily accessible.
Outdoor gear (e.g., tent, camping chairs)
Depending on your van lifestyle, you may want to pack some additional outdoor gear. A tent is a great option for those who enjoy camping in remote areas or national parks. Look for one that's easy to set up and take down, and can withstand various weather conditions.
Camping chairs are another great addition to any outdoor adventure. They provide a comfortable place to sit and relax while taking in the scenic views.
Consider packing ones that fold up for easy storage in your van. Overall, when it comes to clothing and gear for van life, it's important to pack items that are versatile and can withstand various weather conditions.
Invest in high-quality hiking boots/shoes and backpacks/daypacks that will last throughout your travels. Don't forget about additional outdoor gear like tents and camping chairs - they can enhance your van life experience even more!
Entertainment and Comfort Items
Books/magazines/e-readers
When it comes to entertainment on the road, books, magazines, and e-readers are all great options. If you're someone who loves the feel of a physical book in your hands, bring along a few of your favorites. They can be a great escape from reality when you need to unwind after a long day of driving or exploring.
Magazines can be a good alternative to books since they offer shorter articles that can be read quickly while you're taking a break or waiting for your food to cook. E-readers are also an excellent choice because they allow you to carry thousands of books with you without taking up any additional space.
Board games/cards
Board games and cards are perfect for van life since they're easy to store and provide hours of entertainment. There are many small travel-sized versions available, which take up minimal space in your van. Some classic board games like Monopoly or Life may be too bulky, but there are many smaller ones that still offer the same fun experience.
Card games like Uno or Go Fish are always popular choices as well. They're quick to learn and play, making them perfect for when you need a break from driving or just want some downtime in the van.
Musical instruments/speakers
If you enjoy playing music or listening to it while on the road, don't forget to pack some musical instruments or speakers. Guitars and ukuleles are popular choices due to their compact size, but any instrument that's easy enough for travel will do the trick.
Portable speakers can also enhance your listening experience, especially if your van doesn't have an extensive sound system already installed. You'll be able to listen to music while cooking dinner outside by your campfire or while relaxing inside on a rainy day.
Comfortable seating (e.g., bean bag chairs)
When it comes to van life, comfort is key. While your van may have built-in seats, they may not always be the most comfortable for extended periods of time. That's where comfortable seating options like bean bag chairs come in.
Bean bag chairs not only offer comfort but also save space since they can be easily deflated and stored when not in use. They're perfect for lounging inside your van or outside by a campfire while stargazing.
Plus, they add a great pop of colour and personality to your van's interior design. Entertainment and comfort items are essential for any successful van life experience.
Books/magazines/e-readers are great for quiet relaxation time, while board games/cards are ideal for socialising with friends or family on the road. Musical instruments/speakers allow you to enjoy music wherever you go, adding an extra layer of fun to your travels.
Comfortable seating options like bean bag chairs provide much-needed relaxation after long days of exploring and driving. Don't forget these must-have items when packing up your conversion van!
Safety Items
First Aid Kit: Be Prepared for Any Injury or Illness
When you're on the road, accidents and illnesses can happen at any time. That's why it's essential to have a well-equipped first aid kit in your van. Your first aid kit should include antiseptic wipes, bandages, gauze pads, adhesive tape, scissors, tweezers, pain relievers, antihistamines for allergies or insect bites/stings and any prescription medications that you or your travel companions need.
Fire Extinguisher: Don't Let a Small Fire Turn into a Disaster
Fires can be devastating in any situation but even more so when you're living in a van. A fire extinguisher is an absolute must-have item for your van life packing list. Make sure it's easily accessible and stored away from sources of heat or flames like the stove.
When choosing a fire extinguisher for your van, make sure it's rated for class B fires (flammable liquids) and class C fires (electrical). Also, check the expiration date regularly to ensure it's still functional.
Emergency Roadside Kit: Be Ready for Anything on the Road
Breakdowns and accidents happen even to the most prepared travellers. Having an emergency roadside kit in your van will help you handle these situations with ease.
The contents of this kit will depend on your location and the type of travel you plan to do but should include items such as jumper cables/tow rope/compressor/inflator/a portable battery charger/emergency blankets/flashlights/multi-tools/reflective triangles. The emergency roadside kit is not complete without some extra cash handy just in case you run out of gas or need to pay someone who stopped by to help fix something on your vehicle.
Optional Add-Ons
Solar Shower: Cleanliness on the Road
One of the most common downsides of van life is the lack of access to a shower. While some may opt for gym memberships or public facilities, there's an easier solution: solar showers.
These portable bags can be filled with water and left in the sun to warm up, providing a refreshing shower experience anywhere on your travels. Solar showers come in various sizes, but it is recommended to get one that holds at least 5 gallons for a decent shower.
Bike Rack/Bikes: Explore Further
If you love exploring new places on two wheels, a bike rack and bikes are essential additions to your van life setup. A bike rack will allow you to carry your bikes safely and securely on the back of your van without taking up precious interior space.
Bikes are great for sightseeing, exercise, and getting around in urban areas where parking can be difficult. It's important to choose bikes that are durable but lightweight enough to carry easily.
Hammock: Relaxation Anywhere
After a long day of driving or hiking, there's nothing better than relaxing in a hammock surrounded by nature. Hammocks take up minimal space compared to other seating options and can be hung between trees or attached to the roof rack of your van. They're perfect for reading books or napping during warm afternoons when lounging inside might not be as comfortable.
Conclusion
Van life is an amazing way to explore new places and live life on your own terms. With these must-have essentials and optional add-ons, you'll have everything you need for comfort, convenience, and adventure on the road. Remember that while packing lists can be helpful guides when preparing for van life adventures; ultimately each person's needs will vary.
So take this list with a grain of salt and let it serve as inspiration for your own personalised packing list. Happy travels!