Van Life Essentials: What You Really Need
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Starting van life feels like embarking on an adventure you’ve always dreamed about—freedom, simplicity, and the open road.
But before you jump into it, you need to figure out what’s actually essential.
If you’re like me, you probably overpacked for your first trip, bringing along things you never touched.
To help you avoid the same mistake, I’ve compiled a list of van life essentials based on personal experience and advice from fellow van dwellers.
Whether you’re planning weekend trips or full-time van life, here’s what you really need.
A Comfortable Bed Setup
Let’s be real—if you’re living in a van, you’ll spend a lot of time sleeping in it.
Your bed needs to be comfortable, supportive, and suited to your space.
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but here are some key considerations:
A good mattress: Foam mattresses are great because they’re easy to cut to size.
Proper insulation: Cold nights will ruin your sleep, so insulate your bed area well.
Bedding: Choose something cozy but compact—wool blankets are my go-to for warmth without bulk.
A well-rested night makes van life a whole lot more enjoyable.
Trust me, investing in your sleep is worth it.
Solar Power Setup
Being able to power your devices, lights, and appliances off-grid is one of the best parts of van life.
A solar power system gives you the freedom to camp anywhere without relying on traditional hookups.
Solar panels (either fixed or portable).
A battery to store energy.
A charge controller to prevent overcharging.
An inverter if you plan to run AC appliances like laptops or kitchen gadgets.
While this setup requires some initial investment and technical know-how, it saves you a lot of hassle in the long run.
Plus, it’s an eco-friendly way to live on the road.
Cooking Essentials
Whether you’re a gourmet cook or just need coffee to function, having a reliable cooking setup is crucial.
I learned this quickly after trying to live off sandwiches and snacks—spoiler: it doesn’t work for long.
Here’s what I recommend:
A portable stove: Choose a propane or butane stove for versatility and ease of use.
Cookware: A lightweight, multi-use pan and pot will do wonders.
Utensils: Stick with the basics—spatula, spoon, knife.
Reusable plates, bowls, and cups.
Food storage containers: Airtight containers are key to keeping food fresh, especially if you don’t have a fridge.
Cooking in a van is a balancing act of space and efficiency, but once you find a rhythm, it becomes second nature.
Water Storage and Filtration
Water is life, and van life is no exception.
You need to carry enough water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
However, figuring out how much water you need is tricky—too much, and you’ll weigh down your van; too little, and you risk running out.
A minimum of 5-10 gallons of fresh water storage.
A water filtration system for refilling from natural sources.
A smaller container or pump for easy access while cooking or brushing teeth.
Depending on where you’re traveling, you might need to refill more often than expected.
I always keep an extra gallon or two stashed away just in case.
Good Lighting
The sun sets early, especially during the winter months, and you don’t want to be left fumbling in the dark.
Proper lighting makes your van feel cozy and functional after the sun goes down.
LED strip lights or lanterns: They’re energy-efficient and provide bright, even lighting.
Battery-powered or solar-powered lights for emergencies.
Headlamps: Perfect for when you need to find something in the dark without waking anyone else.
Lighting is one of those things you don’t realize you need until you don’t have enough of it.
Ventilation and Climate Control
Keeping your van comfortable inside is critical, especially if you’re living in it full-time.
Trust me, waking up to a stuffy or freezing van isn’t fun.
Proper ventilation and temperature control help with that.
Roof vent fan: This helps with airflow, especially if you’re cooking or in a hot climate.
Portable fan: Battery or solar-powered fans can save you during heatwaves.
Thermal insulation: Insulating your van properly makes a huge difference in both hot and cold weather.
Climate control isn’t just about comfort—it also helps prevent mold and dampness from building up in your van, which can be a huge headache to deal with.
Storage Solutions
Living in a van forces you to downsize, but even with fewer possessions, you’ll still need smart storage to keep things organized and accessible.
When space is limited, every inch matters.
Bins, baskets, and crates: Stackable storage containers are lifesavers for clothes, tools, and food.
Under-bed storage: A great way to maximize space without adding bulk.
Roof racks or rear storage boxes: These are ideal for bigger items like bikes or outdoor gear.
I’ve learned that in van life, clutter leads to chaos.
Keeping your space tidy is not just about aesthetics—it makes life on the road way less stressful.
A Reliable Power Bank
Even with solar, it’s smart to have a reliable power bank for emergencies or when you need a quick charge.
Look for ones with enough juice to charge your phone, laptop, and other gadgets a couple of times over.
Choose a power bank with multiple charging ports.
Solar-powered options are great if you want extra off-grid power.
Keep it charged and ready for emergencies.
There’s nothing worse than being stuck in the middle of nowhere with a dead phone and no way to navigate or call for help.
A Portable Toilet or Bathroom Setup
This one depends on how you’re planning to travel, but having a bathroom solution in your van makes life a lot easier.
There are a few different options depending on your needs and budget.
Portable toilet: Compact and easy to empty at proper dump stations.
Composting toilet: More eco-friendly but requires regular maintenance.
Travel urinal: Handy for quick stops when nature calls and there’s no bathroom in sight.
I personally find a simple portable toilet works well for shorter trips, but you may want something more robust if you’re on the road long-term.
First Aid Kit
Safety should always come first, especially when you’re out in the wild or driving long distances.
Having a well-stocked first aid kit could save you from a minor cut turning into a major hassle.
Bandages, gauze, and antiseptic wipes.
Pain relievers and allergy medications.
Scissors and tweezers.
Any personal medications you might need.
Don’t forget to keep your first aid kit in an easily accessible place in case of emergencies.
You never know when you’ll need it.
Basic Tools and Repair Kit
Vans are machines, and like all machines, they’ll need repairs at some point.
Carrying a basic set of tools and supplies can make the difference between a quick fix and a tow to the nearest mechanic.
A tire repair kit and air compressor for flat tires.
Wrenches, screwdrivers, and duct tape (yes, it’s essential).
Jumper cables or a portable jump starter.
Spare fuses and bulbs.
Van life teaches you to be resourceful, and being prepared for breakdowns is part of the deal.
Personal Hygiene Essentials
Living in a van doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice hygiene, but it does mean you need to be resourceful with your setup.
Wet wipes and dry shampoo for those days when you don’t have access to a shower.
A portable shower or membership to a gym (like Planet Fitness) for regular showers.
A small sink or collapsible basin for washing dishes and brushing teeth.
Staying clean helps you feel refreshed and energized for your next adventure, even when you’re off-grid for days.
Conclusion
Van life is all about finding the balance between simplicity and comfort.
With the essentials covered—like a cozy bed, solar power, water storage, and a reliable cooking setup—you’re ready to hit the road and live out your adventure.
Every van life journey is different, so don’t stress about getting everything perfect from day one.
You’ll learn, adapt, and figure out what works best for you along the way.
After all, part of the joy of van life is discovering how little you actually need to be happy.
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