Because it's not all sunsets and rainbows!
Van life is full of challenges: practical ones, physical ones, mental ones. From finding essential resources to staying safe and healthy, van life requires thoughtful planning and adaptability. In this guide, you'll get the honest lowdown on the most common obstacles van lifers face. Whether you're just starting or are a seasoned nomad, these insights will help you make the most of your van life journey.
One response I often hear when I tell people I'm living in a van is: "Oh I couldn't do that". People say this with good reason. Van life is not a walk in the park.
It's not all sunsets and scenic landscapes, despite what Instagram may tell you! 😉 Don't get me wrong - I live full-time in my van and I'm having a blast. No regrets. It's liberating, rewarding and exciting. But of course, there's a trade-off. Nothing is perfect.
So, please welcome The Van Life Challenges.
'Challenge': (noun) - a task or situation that tests someone's abilities. Oxford English Dictionary.
Let's frame it this way - a challenge is an obstacle that can be overcome with the right mindset, aptitude and/or planning. There's plenty of them kicking around in this nomadic way of life! But don't despair. None are insurmountable and shouldn't impede your enjoyment of van life. They're simply hurdles to be appreciated, accepted and navigated.
Here are the 5 biggest challenges you'll face in van life and solutions to overcome them.
1) Access to Essential Resources
What's the challenge?
Finding essential resources like water, food, fuel, and mobile data. Access can vary in difficulty depending on which country you're living or travelling in and can take up a significant portion of your day, especially in remote regions.
How to overcome it like a pro?
Use Apps and Online Communities
Park4Night is the holy grail for people living or travelling in a van, camper van or motorhome offering user-submitted info on water fill-up points, dump stations, and laundry facilities. Some countries, like France and Spain, have plenty of free campervan sites where you can replenish and dump water easily. But in others, like Germany, it can be surprisingly challenging outside of official campsites.
Another useful tool is iOverlander, particularly for those in the US. Joining Facebook groups like Van Life UK and Van Life Europe also provides access to a wealth of shared advice and tips.
In all cases, but even more so in more difficult locations, the trick to staying on top of your resources is to use the app and plan ahead.
Plan Ahead
Before you hit the road, consider what resources you need to stock up on and look for options along your route or at your final destination. This initial investment of time, before you hit the gas pedal, will ensure your journey is both productive and enjoyable!
Assign a Restocking Day
Establishing a regular schedule for stocking up on essentials can help you manage your time effectively.
After a few weeks of van living, you’ll learn how long your water tank lasts, how often you need to dump grey water, and how many days of food your fridge can hold. You can then integrate these 'restocking days' into your weekly plans without disrupting your adventures.
Stock Up on Non-Perishables
Ideally, align your supermarket trips with your 'restocking day' for maximum time and fuel efficiency. Or choose park-ups near grocery stores to minimize van movement. It's handy to keep a stash of non-perishable items like canned goods, nuts, and soups for times when your food supply is low but it’s not yet time to drive.
I’ll admit I’ve regressed to my student days and stocked up on pot noodles again. They’re not a dietary staple but they help when you’re short on time, food, or energy!
Check Connectivity
Staying connected is essential for communication, navigation, and working remotely. Public Wi-Fi can be unreliable, so it’s crucial to be self-sufficient. Use tools like nPerf for a global map of cellular data coverage and speed tests.
If you rely on a data connection, check the coverage map for your destination and conduct a speed test upon arrival.
Make this part of your ‘bedding down’ routine so you won’t need to repack your van and move if you find the connection is too patchy at a later point when you need it!
For more practical guidance on how to stay connected on the road, check out my blog post here ⬇️
Georgina
2) Maintaining Health & Wellness on the Road
What's the challenge?
Difficulty in maintaining fitness, mental health and hygiene. Limited space can reduce motivation for exercise, while access to or storing fresh food can be challenging, especially if you have a small fridge.
How to overcome it like a pro?
Embrace Nature
Look for parks, trails, and open spaces to do simple workouts or hikes in nature. Activities like hiking, cycling or swimming are not only excellent exercises but they let you explore your surroundings.
Portable Fitness Gear
Ok, so you can't be carry heavy dumbells around! As an alternative, resistance bands or a yoga mat are lightweight and easy to store. This gives you all you need for Calisthenics which is a great way to use body weights and resistance to strengthen muscles.
Gym Memberships or Day Passes
This is a great way to enjoy full access to gym equipment while travelling. Plus get access to a hot shower! Basic-Fit have affordable cross-Europe memberships, allowing you to use any club as a member. An alternative is to buy day passes for local gyms.
Plan Healthy Meals
Planning meals really helps. With limited fridge and cupboard space, having an idea of meals for the week, and the required, items is essential. Rustle up simple but healthy one-pot dishes such as stews and stir-frys. Batch cooking dishes in advance also ensures you have food ready when you don't feel like cooking but need something warm.
Stay Connected and Take Breaks
Van life involves living with unfamiliarity almost every day. While it’s exciting and fulfilling, it can also take its toll. Maintaining positive mental health is crucial for dealing with the ups and downs of van life. Make an effort to stay connected with friends and family, even virtually, and take breaks from driving to relax and recharge.
3) Managing Waste and Hygiene
What's the challenge?
Managing waste and hygiene. Gone are the days of a flushing toilet and unlimited hot water!
How to overcome it like a pro?
Finding Showers on the Road
Any van lifer will tell you that baby wipes are an essential go-between washes to keep you fresh! However, eventually you're going to want (and need!) a shower - and if you don't have one in your van, you'll need to find options on the road:
- Campsites or motorhome service areas are usually your best bet (use the Park4Night filter to find the nearest shower services)
- Local gyms provide options to combine exercise and showering (either invest in a multi-location membership or get a day pass)
- Truck stops or service stations where you can pay a small fee to use the shower
- Pool and beach showers (usually cold!) - yes, I have done this! I've showered and washed my hair at a local lake pool to an audience of German sunbathers!
Managing Your 💩
Ok, so I'm a big fan of composting toilets and personally I think these are the easiest solution to managing your waste on the road.
Unlike chemical cassette toilets, composting loos separate liquid and solid waste, reducing odour and making waste management much simpler. Many models, such as the Trelino, are compact, making them ideal for smaller spaces, and they don’t require water, which is a huge bonus when you’re conserving every drop for drinking, cooking, or cleaning.
A composting loo is the most practical, eco-friendly way to handle waste without the constant need to find public toilets or black water facilities.
4) Staying Safe and Secure
What's the challenge?
Finding safe places to park. Some locations may be unsafe or unwelcoming to overnight stays, leading to anxiety about where to park each night.
This is one challenge that can quickly cause stress and exhaustion - I've heard stories of van lifers who left places in the middle of the night due to safety concerns. This will undoubtedly contribute to sleep debt which will impact mood and energy levels in the days that follow.
Also, let's not underestimate the impact of severe weather and the need to navigate around any warnings and risks.
How to overcome it like a pro?
Research Parking Spots in Advance
Apps like Park4Night, iOverlander and CaraMaps provide user ratings for parking spots, helping van lifers find safer, more secure spots to sleep. Research the area before arrival - read plenty of reviews and consult Google Maps' Streetview.
If possible, avoid arriving at night / in the dark so you can suss out the area before bedding down for the night. This can be challenging in winter months with shorter days, especially if you're working full-time from the van. You may need to use early mornings or lunch breaks to drive.
Invest in Security Measures
For peace of mind, use a range of security measures when you're both in and out of the van. Consider the following:
- Alarm and immobiliser system specifically configured for campervans
- Installing external deadlocks and steering wheel locks
- Internal locks such as the rear door plug and the sliding door lock are particularly good for your safety while inside the van, if someone breaches your external locks
- Security cameras, such as Blink, can be installed externally so you can monitor your surroundings through an app
- Placing a remote-controlled external light to illuminate you're surroundings when parked overnight in dark areas
Stay Aware and Trust Your Instincts
While it can be amazing to discover hidden gems in remote locations—many of which are completely safe—you need to trust your instincts about whether a spot feels secure.
Generally, it's safer to park in numbers, so locations with other vans or motorhomes can be good options. When in enclosed spaces, park facing outwards toward the exit and avoid using external windscreen covers. Ensure you can quickly start the engine and drive away if you feel threatened.
Keep Abreast of the Weather
Sadly, we're witnessing an increase in severe and damaging weather around the globe. There's been devastating floods in Europe and fatal hurricanes in the US in recent times.
In a van, you and your home are at ground level and significant risk so it's vital to prioritise safety. When severe weather warnings are forecast, it's time to pack up the van and drive to safety in plenty of time before the bad weather hits.
Weather & Radar is a good app for detailed forecasts, weather warnings and radar images so that you can view cross-country weather systems. Also make sure to access the website of the state meteorological agency for the country you're in.
5) Decision Fatigue
What's the challenge?
Before I started this lifestyle, I'd heard the term "decision fatigue" mentioned by van life veterans - and I can confirm, it’s a real phenomenon!
Living in a van or motorhome involves making a series of daily decisions—such as where to park, which route to take, and when to stop for supplies. Over time, these continuous small decisions can lead to burnout and decision fatigue, which diminishes the enjoyment of life on the road if not managed properly.
How to overcome it like a pro?
Create a Loose Itinerary
Having a general plan or route can reduce daily decision-making. Decide on destinations or stops in advance, but allow room for flexibility so you don’t feel overly scheduled.
Stay Put for a While
Even a few days parked in one location can be a huge relief. Allow yourself time to unwind and recharge, taking a break from making new decisions. It is ok to do nothing 'special' during these days - decompression is essential for wellness.
Final thoughts...
Ok, so I've talked frankly here about the challenges, but it's important to see the bright side! It's all about perspective. Embracing these hurdles will make you more resourceful, self-sufficient, and deeply appreciative as an individual.
Consequently, this journey presents a real opportunity for personal growth, alongside the amazing experiences and unforgettable adventures that van life brings.
Thanks for reading! Leave a comment below with any feedback, questions or your own recommendations, I'd love to hear from you 😄
Comments ()