With homeownership feeling further and further away than ever before and renting becoming a financial challenge if you can find a property that fits in the first place, it’s no surprise that the idea of life on the road is becoming more appealing.
Over half a million UK citizens live in vans, campervans, motorhomes and caravans, proving that it is possible. Instagram is now filled with #vanlife posts, with no surprise, there has been a 312% growth in them over recent years.
But there are pros and cons with this new way of life, and it requires being really honest about what you want and how you want to live your life. Definitely do your research but here are a few things to ponder to start the process. We've listed a few resources to start if this is inspiring you to make a change.
Living in a converted van or camper van means you have the choice to move on quickly. Are neighbours in the campground annoying you? Well off you go. Waking up in incredible places. Spending more time outside, and being more in tune with nature, can all be pluses for those wanting a change.
This can match the lifestyle. A mini-flat on wheels can see you working remotely in all sorts of amazing places and a different view while you work.
The fact is that rent is at an all-time record high. Outside of London, rent averages at £1,190 per month and in London, you can easily be spending £2,500 on rent or £30,000 a year. That’s before living expenses, so the idea of van life can look like a great alternative that can help you save money. Depending on the van and how much you spend on a refurbishment, in the long run it can be cheaper to be in your van.
No rent, no electricity or water bills. And you won’t be spending money on “things” because you just don’t have the space for anything more!
Living with limited living space won’t suit everyone. You’re most likely not going to have room for all those “things” that we can find ourselves tied to. But beyond that, the space is just, well, small. You might not be able to stand up or dance around the kitchen comfortably. And when it’s cold and wet and muddy and you can’t find a place to do your washing, it can feel a bit too small for comfort.
You might be lucky but unless you’ve personally designed and created your van you’ll most likely have basic amenities, showering facilities and small kitchens. Portable showers are not as exciting as they may sound and in the dead of winter not something you’ll be looking forward to! Some people suggest getting a gym membership at one of the more well-known brands, so you always have an option for a show in most towns and cities.
Be prepared to always have to find a public toilet. Which may sound like no big deal until you need one in the middle of the night.
Make sure you make friends in the community. Also be prepared for a little judgement. This is a new lifestyle and not everyone will understand what this means and why you've done it. Going against the grain can be challenging for some folk.
Having no fixed address can cause problems. There are ways around this - so check which one works for you but you can establish a registered address or use a trusted family member’s residence as an official mailing address. And there is the Van Post service . But it’s more than that. You won’t always feel like you have a base to call home.
A van is not a house or a tiny home. It is different, and it means you’ll always be in a public space.
Vanlifematters: Guides and resources for those new and old to the movement, including a number of events
Vanlife: UK info site for the van movement
Recent article in INews on the number of people turning to van life instead
Article: What is van life really like.
Article: Prepare for van life in the UK
1. Practise “Leave No Trace” principles – clean up after yourself, dispose of waste properly, and leave the natural surroundings as you found them.
2. Be mindful of fragile ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and sensitive areas.
3. Adhere to local laws, regulations, and guidelines.
4. Respect parking restrictions, camping regulations, and any specific rules in the areas where you choose to stay.
5. Obtain necessary permits or passes when required.
6. Avoid trespassing on private property and seek permission before parking or camping on someone else’s land.
7. Be mindful of residential areas, businesses, and public spaces.
8. Observe quiet hours and be considerate of the rights and privacy of others.
9. Conserve resources such as water and electricity.
10 Minimise waste generation by recycling, composting, and reducing single-use items.
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