If you are going headlong into vanlife , buying a van or a campervan can be a good investment. It’s a significant initial cost, yes, but the vehicle will be yours!
The total authorized weight : Be careful, it is not a question of buying the biggest vehicle possible. The total authorized weight (PTAC) is a key point. Indeed, if you exceed this weight, hello problems with the forces of order!
The quality of the layout : When buying, make sure that the interior layout is well thought out and well done.
A poorly designed campervan can turn your trip into a nightmare.
Rent a converted van
If the adventure tempts you, but you are still hesitant to dive, renting a camper van can be an excellent compromise. Plus, it’s also a good way to test out life in a van before committing to a purchase.
Choose your van to travel
Once you have chosen your vehicle, it is time to move on to the fitting out stage . This step is crucial because it will define the comfort of your van for the months, even years, to come.
The living space
Think of your Traveling van as a tiny house. There must be a place to sleep, another to cook, and a space to relax. Also consider space for water . It’s a detail you don’t always think about, but water management is essential in a vanlife !
The storage space
A good van layout is one that optimizes space. The bed can be transformed into a sofa, the table can be foldable, every corner of the vehicle can be used to store your belongings.
Lighting plays an essential role in your van. It not only allows you to see clearly at night, but also helps to create a warm atmosphere. Consider energy-efficient lighting solutions, such as LEDs. You can opt for rechargeable lamps, or even better, powered by solar energy.
Insulation
Insulation is an aspect that is often overlooked when fitting out a van. However, good insulation will help you maintain a pleasant temperature inside the van, whether in winter or summer. Don’t forget to insulate the walls, roof and floor of your vehicle.
Ventilation
Managing the ventilation in your van is essential to avoid condensation and maintain a healthy environment. Installing vents, or even a small skylight, can help circulate the air.
Energy
Think about how you will generate electricity for your van. A rooftop solar panel can be a great solution for charging your appliances and powering your fridge or heating system. Make sure you have a good capacity battery to store this energy.
The kitchen
It is essential to have a functional kitchen space in your van. Provide a portable stove and space to prepare your meals. Don’t neglect food storage either. A small refrigerator can make a big difference, especially on long trips.
Comfort
Comfort is the key to fully enjoying your trip. Invest in a good mattress for your bed, curtains for your privacy, and throw pillows to make your living space more welcoming.
It is possible to create your own layout, but the ideal is to have a van or van fitted out by a professional in order to benefit from his expertise.
Now is the time to prepare for your camper van trip . Yes, van travel is synonymous with freedom, but a little preparation never hurt anyone!
Plan your route
Of course, the beauty of the van road trip is in the spontaneity, but having a basic itinerary can help you avoid unnecessary stress. It can be as simple as defining the big destinations of your trip and leaving the rest to improvisation.
Respect nature
Remember that, during your camper van trip , nature is your host. Respect her! Do not leave any waste behind, respect the rules of camping areas and natural places, and make as little noise as possible. Vanlife is about mutual respect .
Keep an eye on the weather
Let’s be realistic, a trip in a campervan in the pouring rain is not ideal. So be sure to check the weather regularly and adjust your itinerary accordingly.