What is Vanlife?

Do you dream of escaping the daily grind for a life of adventure and freedom? Vanlife is more than just a way to travel—it’s a lifestyle that opens the door to endless possibilities. Imagine waking up to a new breathtaking view every morning, discovering hidden gems, meeting like-minded travellers, and creating memories that last a lifetime.

Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced road-tripper, vanlife is an inclusive community where everyone is welcome.

What Does Vanlife Really Mean?

Vanlife is whatever you make it! It’s about taking control of your life and shaping it on your own terms. For some, it’s about the thrill of the journey, discovering new places and embracing the unknown. For others, it’s about the creative challenge of converting and customising their campervan.

At its core, vanlife is simple: Vans + Adventures = Freedom 🚐✨

A Lifestyle for Everyone: The Many Faces of Vanlife

There is no right or wrong way to live on the road. Vanlife looks different for everyone, and that’s what makes it so unique. Here are some of the ways people experience this lifestyle:

• Luxury vs. Minimalism – Some vanlifers have fully equipped vans with all modern comforts, while others prefer a simpler, back-to-basics setup.

• Full-time vs. Part-time – Many people live in their vans full-time, while others use them for weekend getaways or extended road trips.

• Young & Old – From adventurous 20-somethings to retirees looking for an affordable way to enjoy life, vanlife attracts people of all ages.

• Budget vs. Freedom – Some choose vanlife to save money, while others see it as the ultimate path to freedom and exploration.

• Solo vs. Together – You’ll find solo travellers, couples, families, and even people travelling with their pets.

• Remote Work vs. Odd Jobs – Many vanlifers work remotely as digital nomads, while others take on seasonal jobs along the way.

• Nature vs. City Life – Some thrive in the wilderness, camping off-grid, while others prefer the convenience of urban vanlife in cityscapes.

No matter what vanlife looks like for you, one thing is certain—it’s all about freedom, adventure, and a deeper connection to the world around you.

Is Vanlife Your Next Big Adventure? 🚐✨

Dreaming of ditching the daily grind and hitting the open road? Whether you're considering full-time van living or simply fancy a weekend escape, there’s no better moment than now to turn those dreams into reality. Life’s too short to keep putting adventures on hold—why not explore the world your way?

Ready to get started? Check out our handy guides! From building your very own campervan to budget-friendly travel tips and the top vanlife destinations in the UK and Europe, we’ve got everything you need to make your journey unforgettable.

Why Is Vanlife So Popular?

Vanlife is like a lifestyle pick-and-mix—tailor it to suit your taste! Here’s why it’s winning hearts across the country:

• Luxury or simplicity: The choice is yours whether it’s all mod cons in a fully-equipped campervan or a minimalist setup with just a bed and a brew.

• Full-time or weekend warrior: From full-time van dwellers to weekend adventurers, there’s a place for everyone.

• All generations welcome: Whether you're a young thrill-seeker or a retiree looking for affordable adventures, vanlife caters to all.

• Cost-saving or boundless freedom: For some, it’s a savvy financial choice, while for others, it’s the ultimate route to freedom.

• Solo or social: Whether you’re flying solo, travelling as a couple, or embarking on family road trips (pets included!), vanlife embraces all kinds of travellers.

• Working on the road: Digital nomads and gig workers alike thrive in their mobile offices, enjoying a daily change of scenery.

• Nature or city vibes: Prefer wilderness camping surrounded by nature, or urban stays with the buzz of the city? The beauty of vanlife is that you can have both!

Start Your Vanlife Journey

Welcome to Vanlife, Your New Life Begins Here

Taking the leap into vanlife can feel overwhelming, but with the right resources, it becomes an exciting adventure. We’ve gathered all our knowledge and experience to help you get started—from choosing the right van to budgeting and converting it into a home on wheels.

Why Choose Vanlife? Simplicity & Freedom

“Why would anyone want to live in a van?” you might wonder. The answer is simple: freedom, adventure, and a minimalist lifestyle. Here are some of the top reasons people embrace vanlife:

• Simplicity – With limited space, you learn to live with less and appreciate minimalism. Letting go of material possessions can be incredibly liberating.

• Freedom & Adventure – Vanlife allows you to travel freely and discover places off the beaten path. Wake up to a sunrise by a remote lake or sleep under a starry sky in the wilderness.

Oavsett om du väljer att leva i en van på heltid eller använda den för helgäventyr, finns det inga gränser för vart Vanlife kan ta dig.

Living in a Van, A Modern Interpretation

Vanlife has surged in popularity in recent years, thanks in large part to the viral hashtag #vanlife. Yet, the idea of living a nomadic life is far from new. People have embraced a life without geographical boundaries for centuries—Vanlife is merely our modern interpretation of this timeless lifestyle.

You might recall Chris Farley’s iconic SNL sketch, where he humorously warned about “living in a van down by the river” as a symbol of failure. Ironically, the modern Vanlife movement has completely flipped that narrative on its head. Today, it’s a dream shared by people of all ages and backgrounds.

One can’t help but imagine how Farley himself might have embraced this transformation—it would’ve made for a brilliant sketch, perhaps featuring solar panels and DIY van conversions!

How Much Does Vanlife Cost?

Costs vary depending on whether you choose a DIY conversion or a professional build, which van you buy, and the level of comfort you desire. Here’s a rough breakdown:

• Budget builds – Some convert a basic van for just a few thousand pounds and hit the road.

• Luxury campervans – Others invest over £80,000 (€95,000) to create their dream home on wheels.

Which Van is Right for You? Find Your Perfect Vanlife Companion?

Choosing the best van for vanlife depends entirely on your individual needs and budget. Whether you’re looking for a compact and agile van or a spacious family vehicle, there’s a wide range of options. Let us help you find the perfect van for your next adventure!

Here are some key questions to ask yourself when choosing a van:

• What’s your budget for buying a van?

• How much can you spend on the conversion?

• How much are you willing to spend on maintenance?

• Are you mechanically inclined, or will repairs be a challenge?

• Do mechanical issues stress you out, or are they part of the adventure?

• Is standing up inside the van important to you?

• Do you prioritise function over aesthetics?

Building a Campervan – How to Get Started

Converting your own campervan can be an incredibly rewarding experience—but it can also feel overwhelming, especially if you’re a beginner. Don’t worry—we’re here to help!

We’ve compiled all our best tips and resources to guide you through the entire process, from planning and budgeting to the final touches.

How Much Does It Cost to Buy or Build a Campervan?

Vanlife costs vary depending on several factors: whether you choose a professional build or DIY, an older van or a modern one, the level of comfort you want, and the quality of materials used. Some people spend just a few thousand pounds, while others invest £80,000 (€95,000) or more to create the ultimate campervan.

If you’re planning to build your own campervan, we’ve put together detailed guides on costs and labour to help you plan your budget efficiently.

Our Experience: Lessons Learned & Costs?

In 2023, we bought a 2018 Ford Transit for approximately £21,500 (€29,000) and spent around £10,300 (€12,000) on the conversion. One of our earlier projects was a Renault Trafic with low mileage, which we purchased for £11,200 (€13,000) and converted for around £2,600-3,400 (€3,000-4,000).

For us, mileage, service history, and overall condition have always been more important than the van’s age or cosmetic imperfections. Investing in a reliable vehicle and making necessary upgrades along the way helped us sleep better at night while travelling.

We also focused on smart budgeting. For example, we bought our batteries and fridge during sales, while our first camping stove was bought second-hand and refurbished.

To help you plan your vanlife journey, we’ve documented our costs and labour in detail—so you can learn from our experience and make informed decisions.

Step 1: Set a Budget

The first step is to set a realistic budget for your campervan conversion. Start by researching material, tool, and labour costs.

How Much Does It Cost to Convert a Van?

We’ve documented every pound we spent on our campervan build to give you a clear picture of real conversion costs. We also share our best money-saving tips and highlight which upgrades are truly worth the investment.

Keep Track of Every Expense!

It’s easy to overspend if you’re not tracking costs. We provide detailed budget breakdowns and practical tools to help you stay on track—completely free!

Can You Build a Campervan on a Budget?

Absolutely! Our first campervan was built in 2-3 weeks for under £2,600 (€3,000), including insulation, fees, and construction. We had basic building experience, but with the right planning, it’s entirely possible to create something amazing.

DIY Campervan Conversion – Essential Resources

Here are some key guides to help you get started:

• Choosing the Right Van – Learn the differences and find the best fit for your lifestyle.

• Campervan Electrical Basics – Understand power consumption, battery choices, and installation.

• Complete Insulation Guide – Why insulation matters, how to prevent condensation, and the best materials to use.

• How to Choose the Right Windows – Windows impact not only light and ventilation but also overall comfort.

• FAQ Section – Answers to the most common van conversion questions.

• Tips & Tricks – Short but crucial insights from our own experience.

Your vanlife adventure starts here—let’s build something incredible together! 🚐✨

Which Van is Right for You? Find Your Perfect Vanlife Companion?

Choosing the best van for vanlife depends entirely on your individual needs and budget. Whether you’re looking for a compact and agile van or a spacious family vehicle, there’s a wide range of options. Let us help you find the perfect van for your next adventure!

Here are some key questions to ask yourself when choosing a van:

• What’s your budget for buying a van?

• How much can you spend on the conversion?

• How much are you willing to spend on maintenance?

• Are you mechanically inclined, or will repairs be a challenge?

• Do mechanical issues stress you out, or are they part of the adventure?

• Is standing up inside the van important to you?

• Do you prioritise function over aesthetics?

Step 3: Designing Your Campervan Layout

Planning the layout of your home on wheels may feel like a challenge, but it’s also one of the most exciting steps. This is where your journey toward creating a space that reflects your needs and lifestyle truly begins.

Key Questions to Ask in the Design Phase:

• What type of bed do you want? Fixed or convertible?

• Do you need a toilet and/or a shower?

• How much space does your kitchen require?

• How will you organize storage?

Need Inspiration?

Explore our collection of unique van conversion ideas tailored to different styles and budgets:

• Van Conversion Ideas & Inspiration: Learn from others' solutions and find the perfect layout for you.

• Designing Your Dream Van: The ultimate guide to campervan layouts.

• Partition Walls: Rules & Recommendations: Should you keep or remove the bulkhead?

Step 2: Choosing & Buying Your Van

This might seem obvious, but choosing the right van is one of the most important decisions in your vanlife journey. There is no universal solution—it’s about finding what works best for you and your needs.

Check out our guide:

• Best Vans for Camper Conversions: A comparison of popular models like the Sprinter, Ford Transit, and Ram ProMaster. We cover specifications, pros and cons, and key factors to consider when buying a van.

Try Vanlife Before You Commit

Not sure if vanlife is right for you? Nowadays, many companies and private individuals rent out campervans. If you can't find one near you, why not start by renting a motorhome?

Social media influencers often glamorize vanlife, so before you invest in your own campervan, we strongly recommend trying life on the road first.

P.S. – Even if you own a campervan, treating yourself to a hotel stay every now and then isn't a bad idea. After a few days on the road, a hot shower and a real bed can be a welcome luxury!

Final Thoughts

Building and designing a campervan is an exciting process that requires planning, creativity, and patience. Here are a few things to consider before starting your project:

1. Prioritize Your Needs: Think about what matters most—comfort, functionality, or aesthetics?

2. Budget Wisely: Plan carefully and track all expenses to avoid unexpected costs.

3. Get Inspired: Learn from others’ builds and adapt ideas to suit your needs.

4. Stay Flexible: Not everything has to be perfect from the start. You can always make adjustments along the way.

With the right tools, resources, and a clear vision, creating your dream campervan is entirely possible—no matter your
budget.

Now it’s time to take the next step—check out our additional guides below! Start sketching your layout, begin building, and take your first step toward the freedom of living and traveling on your own terms! 🚐✨

Step 4: Start Building Your Van

Once your design is finalized, it’s time to start the build process. But before jumping into kitchen units and beds, it’s essential to begin with the basics:

Key Steps Before Construction:

• I Insulation & Soundproofing: Protect yourself from the elements and road noise.

• Flooring: Prepare the base for a durable and comfortable living space.t

• Installing Windows: An optional step that improves ventilation and natural light.

• Campervan Battery & Power System: Understand your van’s electrical heart.

• Fuses & Electrical Safety: Learn how to size your system correctly.

• Walls & Ceiling: Create a clean and stylish foundation for your interior.

Campervan Isolation
Insulation is one of the most crucial parts of your build. Check out our detailed guide to choose the right materials and techniques.