Choosing your first van for van life
Every single case will be different and you will never find the 'perfect' van. You will find something that suits your needs and your budget but there will be compromises.
The size of the van
This will depend on how many of you are going to be living in the van and just how comfortable you want it to be. Our first three vans for van life were van conversions. Whilst these were ideal for short trips and weekends away, a six week trip became hard, encouraging us to go larger. The trouble is, the bigger the van, the more 'stuff' you will take with you and that's not always ideal. Our van conversions were great for the two of us, most of the time. Living in a confined space is not always easy but remember you are swapping all those comforts for freedom, peace and quiet and the choice on where you live every day.
Campervan or coachbuilt
Both styles of van have pros and cons. Having had both, we have a great deal of experience to share.
Campervan
Pros
-
Small size is easier to drive and park
-
Cheaper on ferries
-
Cheaper fuel costs
Cons
-
Tight on living space
-
Tight on storage space
Coachbuilt motorhome
Pros
-
More living space
-
More storage space
Cons
-
Bigger to drive and park
-
Height restrictions on car parks
-
Higher fuel costs
New or used
Mainly down to budget. A newer van is less likely to cause you maintenance issues and of course it will look and feel better. It will also depend on what kind of van life you are hoping to achieve. A new van may look out of place among many other, older vehicles and may attract too much attention. On a campsite, this is irrelevant. Our advice is spend as much as you can on the van but don't over spend.
A new vehicle will come with a warranty which gives you peace of mind. An older vehicle should be used close to home for a while till you get to know it. Be prepared for the odd scuff and minor damage when living in a van.
Self build campervan
Having built two myself, I have learned much along the way. I have seen some amazing self-built vans, some far better than showroom conversions. The biggest advantage is that you build it to your exact requirements. The downside is the time and cost it takes to get it right. You can't cut corners, especially with the gas, water and electric systems. Your van has to be safe and legal.
Plan your van conversion on paper first. Draw the layout, plan the wiring and pipework and consider window options, before you do anything.
-
Windows and skylights
-
Wiring and plumbing
-
Insulation and boarding out
-
Furniture
-
Interior fittings
Essentials to consider
If you are going for full time van life, consider:
-
What will be your power sources? Solar/Leisure batteries/Mains hook up - read more about power here
-
Where will you get and store fresh water? The larger the tank the better
-
Cooking. A well equipped kitchen with gas supply for off-grid living. Where will you store the gas?
-
Fixed bed or make-up bed? Can you be bothered to assemble the bed every night?
-
Dining and seating area. Where will you eat and sit and read all those books?
-
Cycles. Cycle rack on the back/roof-rack/large garage space