Picture waking up to the sound of waves crashing just metres from your bed, or watching the sunset over a mountain range from the comfort of your cosy home on wheels.
Van life gives you an amazing chance to experience the world like few other lifestyles can. But let’s face it—it’s not all sunrises and scenic drives. Living in a van comes with its own set of challenges, and it’s not a choice to make lightly.
Let’s kick things off by exploring the highs and lows of van life, giving you an honest glimpse into both the highs and lows. From the awesome freedom and money savings to dealing with limited space and the chance of feeling isolated, we’ll touch on it all.
Once you’ve considered the pros and cons, we’ll move on to the 15 van life essentials – those must-have items that will not only make your van life possible but enjoyable. Whether it’s the basic camper van essentials, the handy van life gadgets for added comfort, or other van life necessities you just can’t go without, we’ve got you covered.
By the end of this read, you’ll have a solid grasp of what it takes to thrive on the road and whether this lifestyle is the adventure you’ve been dreaming of.
What are the pros and cons of van life?
Living the van life can be an unforgettable adventure. It’s all about freedom and getting back to nature. But it’s important to keep in mind that it won’t all be smooth sailing.
Before we get into our 15 van life essentials, let’s explore the great and not-so-great bits of van life to suss out if it’s your cup of tea.
The benefits of van life
Firstly, here are some of the best aspects of living in a van.
Freedom to explore
Van life offers you the flexibility to travel wherever and whenever you please. There’s nothing quite like waking up to fresh scenery each day, be it a beach, a mountain, or a bush landscape.
Cost savings
Without the eye-watering cost of rent or mortgage, you can live affordably in a van. Having space for only the most essential items helps cut costs and live a more sustainable, down-to-earth lifestyle in these trying economic times.
Minimalist lifestyle
Living in a van encourages you to embrace simplicity. You’ll learn to prioritise what’s truly important, reducing clutter and focusing on your van life essentials.
Strong sense of community
The van life movement has built a tight-knit and friendly community. Whether you’re sharing advice online or passing by out on the road, there are heaps of chances to bond with other van lifers who love the lifestyle as much as you do.
Closer to nature
Van life allows you to immerse yourself in the great outdoors. Whether you’re parked near a national park or by the ocean, you’ll have easy access to all kinds of outdoor activities.
The downsides to van life
As much as TikTok and Instagram may be influencing you to jump into van life headfirst, the reality is it’s not for everyone. Here are some things to consider.
Space limitations
Living in a van means adapting to a small, confined space. You’ve got to stay organised and choose your van camping must-haves wisely to maximise your space.
Isolation
Spending long periods on the road can get lonely sometimes. Even with a tight-knit van life community, it can be tough being away from friends and family.
Physical demands
Living the van life isn’t a walk in the park. You’ve got to handle everything, from parking dramas to van upkeep. It can take a toll on you physically, particularly if you’re not accustomed to a more back-to-basics lifestyle.
Inconsistent amenities
At times, you might find yourself without essentials like electricity, running water, or a loo. While van camping gear can assist, be ready for a more laid-back way of living.
Weather challenges
Living in a van means you’re more exposed to the elements. Whether it’s scorching hot, freezing cold, or pouring with rain, you’ve got to be adaptable and prepared for anything.
If you’ve decided you can handle the pros and cons, let’s get into our top 15 van life essentials.
15 van life essentials for the perfect adventure
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When it comes to van camping essentials, here are 15 of our top recommendations.
First aid kit
When you’re out on the road, a first aid kit is more than just a convenience—it’s a van life necessity. From minor cuts to unexpected injuries, being prepared with this van camping essential can make all the difference.
Carbon monoxide detector
When it comes to van life essentials, there’s nothing more important than your safety. A carbon monoxide detector is a must-have for van life, especially if you’re using propane or other gas-powered appliances. This van life gadget ensures you can sleep soundly without worrying about harmful fumes.
Battery jump starter
Nothing ruins a day faster than a dead battery, especially when you’re far from help. A battery jump starter is one of those van life must-haves that gives you peace of mind knowing you can get back on the road quickly.
Portable power bank
Keeping your devices charged is crucial, especially when they’re your link to the outside world. A portable power bank is a camper van essential, ensuring you’re never left without power, even when you’re off-grid.
Solar panel kit
Take advantage of the sun’s power to keep your gadgets running smoothly. A solar panel kit is one of the key van life essentials, making it perfect for long-term stays in remote locations.
Large water container
Staying hydrated and having water for cooking and cleaning is non-negotiable. A large water container is one of the top van life must-haves, ensuring you’ve got plenty on hand, especially when you’re miles from the nearest tap.
Portable tyre inflator
Flat tyres are a fact of life, and when they occur, a portable tyre inflator is a van camping essential that can save the day. This handy tool allows you to quickly pump your tyres back up, keeping you on the move.
Camping stove
Cooking on the go is part of the charm of van life, and a reliable camping stove is a camper van essential. Whether you’re brewing your morning coffee or cooking dinner under the stars, this tool is a must for every van lifer.
Portable fan
Van life can get pretty warm, especially during the peak of an Aussie summer. A portable fan is a must-have van camping accessory that helps you survive those balmy nights by keeping the air flowing.
Fire extinguisher
Safety is key when living in close quarters, and a fire extinguisher is crucial. Whether you’re cooking inside or using gas-powered equipment, this van living essential is vital for quickly putting out small fires before they become big problems.
Folding shovel
A folding shovel is way more versatile than you might think. This van camping accessory is useful for digging a fire pit, clearing a path, or dealing with unexpected off-road challenges. It’s a compact tool that’s ready for any situation.
Portable esky
Keeping your food and drinks cool is a must, and a portable esky is a van life essential. Ideal for weekend getaways or longer adventures, it’s a simple way to make sure you’ve always got fresh supplies with you.
Handheld vacuum
Living in a van means dirt builds up fast. A handheld vacuum is a must-have for van life to keep your space clean and tidy. No one likes crumbs or sand in their bed, right?
Biodegradable soap
Keeping clean while respecting the environment is so important on the road. Biodegradable soap is a van life must-have, letting you wash dishes, clothes, and yourself without harming the ecosystems you’re exploring.
Waterproof Bluetooth speaker
What’s an adventure without a soundtrack? Last but certainly not least on our list of van life essentials is a waterproof Bluetooth speaker. It’s one of those van camping accessories that lets you enjoy your favourite tunes or catch up on the podcasts you love wherever you go, whether you’re chilling at the beach or hiking through the bush.
Now that we’ve covered the pros and cons, and the must-have equipment and gadgets, it’s time to answer some of the FAQs about van life essentials.
FAQs about van life
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about van life essentials.
Is van life legal in Australia?
Yes, van life is legal in Australia, but there are some rules you need to follow. While it’s perfectly legal to live in your van, where you park it overnight is key. It’s important to check local regulations and signs to avoid fines.
Free camping and parking in some public areas may be restricted, especially in urban areas or national parks. Many van lifers use designated camping areas or caravan parks, which are set up for this kind of living.
How can I make money with my van life?
Making money while living the van life is totally doable and can be as flexible as your lifestyle. Many people work remotely in fields like writing, graphic design, or software development, thanks to the thriving nature of remote work.
If you’re into content creation, blogging, vlogging, and social media about van life can also bring in a liveable income through sponsorships or ads. Others find work on the road, such as seasonal jobs, trades, or even selling handmade goods at markets.
Your van life must-haves should include a reliable internet connection to keep you connected to employment opportunities!
Is living in a van sustainable?
Living in a van can be quite sustainable, especially if you remain mindful of your impact. Many van lifers reduce their carbon footprint by prioritising solar panels as part of their van life essentials, minimising water usage, and living a minimalist lifestyle.
Cooking in your van and avoiding disposable items can also help reduce waste. However, it’s important to plan ahead for waste disposal and ensure you’re not causing damage to the natural environments where you camp.
How do you sleep in a van overnight?
Sleeping in a van overnight can be very comfortable with the right setup. Most van lifers consider a good mattress, ventilation, and privacy to be van life essentials – and with good reason.
Using window coverings or curtains can help block out light and add privacy. It’s also important to find a safe, legal place to park overnight, such as a designated campsite or caravan park. Ensuring your van is level and ventilated will also make a huge difference to your comfort level.
What is essential for a campervan?
Van life essentials include a comfy sleeping setup, a trustworthy cooking stove, a big water tank, and a mobile power source like solar panels. Good airflow, safety equipment like a first aid kit and fire extinguisher, and tidy storage options are vital for a hassle-free and pleasant van life journey.
Final thoughts on van life essentials
If you’re thinking about trying out van life in Queensland, there are a few key things to remember to make sure your time is fun and eco-friendly. Firstly, check out the local rules on where you can park overnight; some places might have limits, so it’s smart to plan ahead to avoid fines.
Also, consider the Queensland weather—good insulation and airflow are van life essentials, particularly in the scorching summer months. Lastly, embrace a simpler lifestyle by focusing on the basics that really add to your adventure, from handy van life gadgets to no-fuss van camping gear.
Why not join our Queensland Camping Facebook Group to chat with like-minded people, ask for advice and share your own camping experiences? You’ll also find more handy resources like this deep dive into van life essentials at Queensland Camping.
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