VanLife Hacks, Tips and Must Haves
The idea of getting out into nature to explore is always desirable, but many people overlook the actual work it takes to #vanlife. In this post I’m going to be sharing our favorite products, tips and hacks that are sure to help even the most expert van-lifer!
Hacks
Velcro: everywhere and everything. I’m an avid plant mom so having some plant babies in the van was a must for us. Using heavy duty velcro to keep small pots in place while driving was so convenient and I loved that I was able to take the plants on the road with us to give our interior an even more homey feel. We also used velcro strips to fix our water filtration system to our countertop. Convenient and handy: put this on your “to buy” list
Toilet: okay, this may be TMI for some readers. Discretion advised! I use our toilet cabinet as a shoe closet (because, priorities). So where do we number 1 and 2? Well, with a little creativity, we came up with a system that allows your number 1’s to go directly into a holding tank without smells coming back into your sink or interior space. This system was literally a game changer. For me (a woman) especially. So, what about number 2? Pick a spot, any spot.
Shower: when the going gets tough, we shower with hand towels. Hand towels wet with soap and water do the trick for those “in-between” shower days. I know it doesn’t sound very appealing on paper but it definitely makes you feel clean. Think: sponge bath
iPad TV: Our iPad sat perfectly over the cabinet pulls over the bed! Bring one on your van life adventure for the perfect romantic movie night.
Tips
Have NO expectations! Wandering in a van can be as adventurous or as stressful as you make it. Coming into the adventure with no expectations and just trying to go with the flow will maximize your experience. Plan stops along the way but don’t have too much of an itinerary so that you have room to play with different places you loved (or didn’t). Give yourself free playtime and let the fun come to you!
Don’t forget your book(s). A lot of times you will find really beautiful places where you can lay back in hammock and enjoy your newly found environment. This can be the perfect time to indulge in your favorite book!
The weather app is your best friend. Now that your fun is powered by the sun, you’ll need to keep track of where you’re going and what the weather will be like while you’re there. Download your favorite app on your smartphone and plan your trips around chasing that sunshine!
Food! If you own one of our vans, you know the size of your fridge and the amount of food it can hold. As with any trip, stock up on your favorite goodies and necessities so you’re not needing to go back to the city when you’ve realized you’re out of granola!
Must Haves
iOverlander is an amazing user created and controlled app that allows you to find wild camping spots across the US. It also shows you where you can get your water re-filled and where you can dump. It’s on the top of my must have list for a reason.
Swiffer wipes do wonders for your floors! You don’t need the actual Swiffer jet but buy the wipes you would generally put on the Swiffer and use it to quickly and efficiently mop your alley floors. They also work well to use afterwards for your driver’s cabin running boardings and flooring.
A shower curtain and magnets for your outdoor shower. Remember your van is metal and thus, magnetic. A couple of strong magnets and a standard shower curtain can make your outdoor shower private and spa like. A teak wood square to stand on also provides that extra spa like feel.
Paper map book. I know. How old school. But, when you’re out there and don’t have reception for our fancy, new age GPS systems, you will need something to go by. Paper maps are fun and you can sometimes even find some cool landmarks on there that won’t be on our fancy GPS!
