Must-Have Van Life Essentials for Living on the Road

Are you new to van life or looking to improve your day-to-day life in your beloved van? There are several van life gadgets, gear, camping accessories for vans, and essentials on the market today that add a variety of necessities and conveniences to your van.

Living in a van is one of the most liberating (and least expensive) ways to live. There are no mortgage or rental contract obligations, and you do not have monthly utility expenses to pay. You can also roam about as much as you like and alter the environment outside your window whenever you want.

The items on this list are what we consider to be essentials for living in your car. Because we use many of them on a regular basis, these are the requirements that truly allow us to enjoy all of the freedom that the road has to offer. In this article we a list of best van accessories for van lifers if you’re trying to help a loved one or friend make the van life move easier.

Best Van Life Essentials:

Below I’ve put together an extensive list of security products, Van Life Tech Gadgets & Accessories, kitchen essentials, and other must-haves that can assist you in living your very best van life.

Security Products:

  1. TKSTAR GPS TK905 Strong Magnetic GPS Tracker
  2. Basics Security Safe 14 L - Black
  3. Vehicle Breakdown Safety Kit
  4. FIRST ALERT Fire Extinguisher, Kitchen Fire
  5. Kidde Carbon Monoxide Alarm
  6. Pro-Lift B-004D Grey Hydraulic Bottle Jack

1. Magnetic GPS Tracker (TKSTAR GPS TK905)

You can trace your rig’s location all over the world by concealing a magnetic GPS device beneath it - a little price to pay for security and peace of mind.

The TK905 Strong Magnetic GPS Tracker by TKSTAR does not require installation because it has a magnetic base, is energy-efficient, has an IP58 waterproof rating, and has a 90-day lifespan. It allows you to track your iPhone, Android, PC, or Mac using GPS.

A lengthy battery life, vibrating alarm, and sim card storage are essential when looking for the Best GPS Tracker. And, if you’re seeking the Best GPS Tracker for Van life, this vehicle tracker ranks right up there with the rest of the options.

2. Compact Electronic Safe (Amazon Basics Security Safe 14 L – Black)

Vans come in a wide range of forms and sizes. And, while many vans use plenty of innovations when it comes to cupboards and storage, you’ll need a secure spot to put precious stuff.

With a few simple tools, even locked cupboard doors and compartments may be broken into. As a result, getting a secure safe box for your van is a terrific option.

Security safe boxes, with a key-coded lock and a thick, steel exterior, are a far safer method to store passports, cameras and technology, and valuable jewels.

The most popular and best electronic safe option for Vanlife is the AmazonBasics security safe. The safe has an electronic lock that you can open with a PIN code, but it also has two override keys that you can use in an emergency.

This safe box is small enough to tuck into a corner of your vehicle and will keep your belongings secure while you’re out and about. Simply bolt it to the van’s wall, set an electronic passcode, and go live your life.

3. Car Emergency Kit (AA Vehicle Breakdown Safety Kit Plus AA5618):

Because you never know when you’ll be in an accident, having an emergency kit on hand gives you peace of mind. Knowing you have a backup plan in case of an accident or trouble is essential for your peace of mind and comfort in your van life. Driving with peace of mind can help you stay calm.

The AA kit will allow you to deal with the majority of scenarios. This convenient kit includes jumper cables, tow straps, tire repair materials, an air compressor, a seatbelt cutter, and other useful items.

4. Fire Extinguisher (FIRST ALERT Fire Extinguisher):

While fires are uncommon, they are more likely in a vehicle. You should always be prepared for the first with propane canisters, additional electrical equipment, and overworked engines.

Always bring a portable fire extinguisher with you when you travel. That way, you can rapidly extinguish a fire before it spreads and becomes a major issue.

The First Alert Fire Extinguisher is the best portable fire extinguisher because it’s the size of a spray can. It’s useful for keeping in your van.

5. Carbon Monoxide Detector (Kidde Carbon Monoxide Alarm):

Another must-have van life item is a carbon monoxide detector. Particularly while asleep at night, you’ll be a huge risk if there is a leak.

Carbon monoxide detectors are small, portable, and easy to operate. You can keep it anyplace in your van and rest easy knowing that such an important failsafe is in place.

A Kidde carbon monoxide detector could be a life-saving van accessory. This device, which is powered by two AA batteries, will continuously beep at 85 decibels if deadly carbon monoxide is present.

6. Car Jack (Pro-Lift B-004D Grey Hydraulic Bottle Jack):

Punctured tires happen whether you’re prepared or not, so have a car jack on hand. This Pro-Lift hydraulic bottle jack has a weight capacity of 4 tonnes, making it ideal for Van life. This bottle jack’s key advantages include a long-life performance, adjustable working height, and the ability to securely hold the weight.

Car Jack (Pro-Lift B-004D Grey Hydraulic Bottle Jack)

Van Life Tech Gadgets & Accessories

  1. Renogy 200 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Panel Starter Kit
  2. 100Ah 12V Photonic Universe deep cycle AGM battery
  3. BESTEK 300W Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter
  4. Rechargeable Touch Light
  5. JBL Charge 4 Portable Bluetooth Speaker
  6. Basics Dual-Port USB Car Charger for Apple & Android Devices
  7. Nekteck Car Mount Magnetic Phone Holder
  8. HULKMAN Alpha85 Jump Starter

1. Solar Panel Kit (Renogy 200 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Panel Starter Kit):

Do you want to create your own power from a single source? A solar panel is a must-have piece of equipment for anyone who intends to live in their van for an extended period of time.

Solar panels can be mounted on the roof of your vehicle using a variety of various mounts. You’ll be able to create electricity while driving and store it for later use.

Solar Panel Kit (Renogy 200 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Panel Starter Kit)

Portable batteries can only supply so much power. A solar panel is a good investment if you need more power for warmth, work, or entertainment.

The Renogy 200 Watt Solar Starter Kit includes a 30A PWM charge controller, two 100W 12V solar panels, a 20-foot 10AWG connector adapter kit, and an 8-foot 10AWG tray cable. This package also includes branch connections and Z-brackets for quick and easy installation perfect for Van life.

2. Deep Cycle Battery (100Ah 12V Photonic Universe deep cycle AGM battery):

If you’re going to install solar panels in your van, you’ll need a high-quality deep cycle battery to store the energy the panels generate. The 100ah 12v photonic universe deep cycle AGM battery batteries are of high quality and well-made, with a shelf life of 3-5 years. Because this battery has a capacity of 100Ah, it will provide you with 55Ah of usable power.

3. Power Inverter (BESTEK 300W Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter):

It can be difficult to charge certain equipment (laptops, etc.) while living in a camper van if you don’t have an inverter. Car Power Inverters are your finest buddies on the road for gaining access to the constant power supply.

Power Inverter (BESTEK 300W Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter)

When it comes to providing a safe and efficient power supply, the Bestek 300W Pure Sine Wave Car Power Inverter is one of the best inverters. The inverter has two AC outlets and two USB charging connections, allowing you to charge numerous devices at the same time.

4. USB Touch Light (Rechargeable Touch Light):

You’ll need a way to generate light inside your van at night. USB lights are an excellent way to accomplish this.

This little USB-chargeable light is useful for me when I don’t want to run electricity from my external battery, as it does with many other important van life products. It charges completely in about an hour and a half and can last for weeks before needing to be recharged. It’s also dimmable, which helps establish the tone.

5. Bluetooth Speaker (JBL Charge 4 Portable Bluetooth Speaker):

On any trip, music is crucial. What you won’t need is a full-fledged surround-sound speaker system installed into your van; all you’ll need is a Bluetooth speaker. They’re portable, less expensive, and you won’t need anything else to fill your van with music.

This JBL Charge 4 is one of my favorite gadgets, and I couldn’t imagine living in a van without it. It’s waterproof, produces excellent music, has a long battery life, and can even charge other USB-powered gadgets.

6. USB Charger (Basics Dual-Port USB Car Charger for Apple & Android Devices):

Bring more charging cables for phones, tablets, and other devices than you think you’ll need because they will all be shattered and lost Bring a lot! You’ll be able to thank me later.

For extra protection, I usually use all four of Amazon Basics Dual-Port USB Car Charger dependable charger’s ports to conveniently and simultaneously charge all of my treasured devices.

7. Phone Holder (Nekteck Car Mount Magnetic Phone Holder):

However, on certain drives, the mount has fallen off the air vent grills. This only happens on occasion, and I use Nekteck Car Mount Magnetic Phone Holder so it’s not a big deal for me. Look no further than this phone holder if you want a basic yet very functional phone holder.

Phone Holder (Nekteck Car Mount Magnetic Phone Holder)

For me, this Nekteck Car Mount Magnetic Phone Holder is the greatest option. The magnet works well and the phone does not slip off. A little metal circle on the rear of my phone grips the powerful Neckteck magnet and effortlessly secures my phone.

8. Jump Starter (HULKMAN Alpha85 Jump Starter):

If you’ve ever run out of battery in a van and since you can’t drop the clutch on an automatic to get it running, a jump starter has become an essential piece of equipment. But, before you buy one, you should think about your van, and more especially, the size of your battery.

This portable Hulkman Alpha 85 S jump starter is ideal for you. It includes a 20,000 mAh battery with a peak current of 2000A. It also boasts 65kW of fast charging for a quick start and an 18-month battery life.

Van Life Kitchen Essentials

  1. Campingaz Camp Bistro 2, Camping Stove
  2. YETI Hopper Portable Cooler
  3. WACACO Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker
  4. Water Bottle
  5. PortoVino Beach City Wine Tote with Hidden
  6. Utopia Kitchen 12.5 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast-iron Skillet - Frying Pan
  7. EXTRA LARGE Organic Bamboo Cutting Board
  8. STANSPORT - Deluxe 24-Piece Enamel Tableware Set
  9. REDCAMP 3 Foot Aluminum Folding Table and Chairs Set

1. Camping Stove (Campingaz Camp Bistro 2, Camping Stove):

Another must-have item for van life is a stove of some kind. Depending on how fancy you want to make your van’s interior, this could be built into a free-standing or kitchen countertop.

We use a Camp Chef Ranger II camping stove, which has two powerful 17,000 BTU burners and serves as an excellent substitute for my kitchen stove at home. It’s simple to use, compact, and lets me prepare whole gourmet dinners anytime I choose.

2. Portable Cooler Bag (YETI Hopper Portable Cooler):

If you intend to make fresh and varied meals, a mobile refrigerator is an excellent choice for storing food with a limited shelf life.

Portable Cooler Bag (YETI Hopper Portable Cooler)

Portable coolers can be stored in any available place in your van. With only a small amount of electricity required, you can stock up on goods such as milk and meat, knowing they will be kept cool and safe. After a long day on the road, no one wants to drink a warm beer or a lukewarm glass of wine!

While many van lifers like to own a 12-volt refrigerator/freezer, the YETI Hopper Portable Cooler bag is a more portable and adaptable option. It can keep things cold for several days and is portable enough for daily travel.

3. Portable Coffee Maker (WACACO Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker):

If you rely on your morning coffee, a coffee sachet, and a kettle will not be enough!

Bring your favorite beans or brew on the road and invest in a portable coffee maker, such as the WACACO Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker, if you like your coffee rich, strong, and flavorful.

The WACO Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker is simple to use and requires no electricity. Every morning, prepare yourself a cup of rich, filtered coffee using your favorite ground beans and hot water from your kettle.

4. Water Bottle (Hydro Flask - Water Bottle)

If you’re camping in extremely cold weather, you might want to carry a hot water bottle to bed with you. This multi-functional bottle features a warm knit cover and is an easy-to-use heat source.

Put the hot water bottle next to your freezing feet for a more pleasant night’s sleep. This water bottle is insulated and leak-proof.

The double-wall insulation of the Hydroflask keeps hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold for ridiculously extended periods of time. It comes very handy when driving over long distances or venturing out into the globe.

5. Wine Bag (PortoVino Beach City Wine Tote with Hidden)

Why should your wine be any different than the rest of your van life essentials? Simply take the bag from the interior of a wine box, slip it into its beautiful wine coat and you’ll have on-demand access to wine whenever you want.

Wine Bag (PortoVino Beach City Wine Tote with Hidden)

The PortoVino City Wine Tote is a stylish, sleek design with a modern look and feel. This adorable tote bag has enough wine storage for on-the-go vino enjoyment. The hidden insulated zippered pocket in the bag can contain up to 1500ml (2 normal bottles) of wine.

6. Cast Iron Pot (Utopia Kitchen 12.5 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast-iron Skillet - Frying Pan):

Cast iron holds heat extremely effectively. A cast-iron pan is a wonderful alternative for cooking in your van.

This style of skillet cooks food faster and uses less energy. Plus, a cast-iron skillet is quite versatile. Bake, fry, grill, or sear your cuisine to your liking.

This sturdy cast iron pot from Utopia Kitchen is a very versatile utensil. It evenly cooks food on my powerful camping stove and is tough enough to cook dinner over a campfire. It’s designed to withstand the regular abuses of van life.

7. Cutting Board (EXTRA LARGE Organic Bamboo Cutting Board)

We use bamboo wooden cutting boards on two chairs to chop our vegetables and place our hot stove when cooking inside our campervan. Bamboo is commonly used because it is durable and antibacterial.

A good cutting board is a must-have for van life! You may also get a smaller plastic cutting board, but we like the feel and appearance of wood.

8. Tableware Set (STANSPORT - Deluxe 24-Piece Enamel Tableware Set)

Another thing included in kitchen van essentials is a tableware set. We use STANSPORT - Deluxe 24-Piece Enamel Tableware Set. This tableware set isn’t the most beautiful, but that’s not the goal. This compact, lightweight, and durable set made of enamel-coated steel can withstand the severe demands of day-to-day life on the go.

Tableware Set (STANSPORT - Deluxe 24-Piece Enamel Tableware Set)

9. Folding Table and Chair Set (REDCAMP 3 Foot Aluminum Folding Table and Chairs Set):

If you didn’t build a table during the van conversion, you’ll need something lightweight and portable for eating, outdoor cooking, and other activities. REDCAMP 3 foot Aluminum folding table is fantastic because it is inexpensive, durable, folds up small, and has adjustable height. It also has two little folding chairs.

Other Valuable Van Life Essentials:

  1. Fan-Tastic Vent 801250 1250 Series Vent
  2. 1000mAh clip fan
  3. DEKO 196 Piece Tool Set General Household Hand Tool Kit
  4. Reliance - Luggable Loo
  5. Heater F215100 MH4B Little Buddy
  6. Big Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter
  7. YIZI GO Portable Camping Chair
  8. Scrubba Wash Bag 2.0
  9. BLACK+DECKER HHVI315JO42 Dustbuster Cordless Lithium Hand Vacuum
  10. FORTEM Tyre Inflator Air Compressor
  11. Surviveware Small First Aid Kit
  12. Nemo Helio Portable Pressure Camp Shower
  13. Honeywell Howard Leight Earplugs

1. Ventilation System (Fan-Tastic Vent 801250 1250 Series Vent)

Seasoned van dwellers will tell you that vans can get quite hot very quickly! In such temperatures, trying to sleep at night might be practically painful.

The Fan-Tastic Fan does an excellent job of circulating fresh air throughout my van and adjusting the temperature inside. You can change fan speeds, reverse direction, and turn the fan on and off with the included remote.

2. USB-Rechargeable Clip-On Fan (1000mAh clip fan):

Worry not if a Fan-Tastic Fan isn’t in the cards, or if you don’t have external electricity in your van. This handy fan includes a built-in battery that charges through USB and lasts anywhere from 6 to 24 hours, depending on the speed.

USB-Rechargeable Clip-On Fan (1000mAh clip fan)

3. Tool Kit (DEKO 196 Piece Tool Set General Household Hand Tool Kit):

No van lifer should set out without a massive tool kit. During your time in the van, several things will need to be repaired and reattached.

All-in-one tool kits cover a wide range of tasks. Furthermore, the storage allows you to put everything in one place and is easily accessible.

The DEKO 196 Piece Tool Set is made of steel and has a high-polish chrome finish. This 196 tool kit exceeds ANSI essential criteria for strength, durability, and anti-corrosion protection. This tool package is also lightweight.

4. Portable Toilet Reliance - Luggable Loo

This is a topic that is frequently discussed in the online van construction community. Do you truly require a toilet? It was a must for us.

If you have to wake up frequently in the middle of the night, having a camping toilet on hand is a must. Portable toilets are small and compact, making them ideal for hiding under a bed or in a storage container. You will then only need to empty the cassette toilet in a public restroom.

When there isn’t a toilet around, Reliance - Luggable Loo is excellent. It has a lid that doubles as a seat, keeping bad odors at bay. It is also simple to empty it to the sturdy hinge.

5. Mr. Heater F215100 MH4B Little Buddy

As the weather outside drops, it might get chilly inside your camper van. If you don’t want to spend the entire evening hunched beneath your sleeping bag or blankets, invest in a little vehicle heater.

A propane heater, such as the Mr. Buddy heater, is popular among van lifers since it consumes no battery power.

However, these heaters produce carbon monoxide in your campervan, so it’s good to leave a window cracked and have a carbon monoxide alarm.

6. Water Filter (Big Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter)

When you’re boondocking in a remote place in your campervan, you may need to get more water. We frequently go to crystal pure streams in the mountains to refill the water bottles in our van.

Water Filter (Big Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter)

The Big Berkey filter is capable of purifying even the most noxious water. The Berkey’s gravity-fed carbon filters will securely remove dangerous impurities from water drawn from a pond, petrol station, or babbling stream.

7. Foldable Camping Chair (YIZI GO Portable Camping Chair)

When we packed the van, we looked for ways to conserve money because we were on a tight budget. The camping chairs were the last thing I would have considered spending more money on. What we didn’t account for was how much time we’d spend sitting in them!

These chairs have been used for sitting around a campfire and on the beach. I’m not going anywhere with this van life requirement.

I keep a couple of YIZI GO Portable Camping Seats in my vehicle since they are lightweight, comfy, and convenient camping chairs.

This camp chair folds down to around one foot long and six inches broad, making it an excellent choice for someone with little room. It’s very comfy, and it’s another way we’ve expanded our campervan’s living space.

8. Scrubba Wash Bag 2.0:

The days of visiting seedy, costly laundromats in the middle of nowhere are long gone. Simply fill the Scrubba Wash Bag with water, add your clothing and soap, scrub with your hands, rinse, and hang to dry. It’s really that simple.

9. Hand Vacuum (BLACK+DECKER HHVI315JO42 Dustbuster Cordless Lithium Hand Vacuum)

When you’re on the road for an extended period, the inside of your van will surely become dirty. Your shoes will bring in a lot of dirt, and small bits of food will fall to the floor.

Having a compact hand vacuum allows you to keep your van clean as needed. The cordless design makes it simple to use and store in a small place.

Hand Vacuum (BLACK+DECKER HHVI315JO42 Dustbuster Cordless Lithium Hand Vacuum)

A portable vacuum, such as the Black + Decker Dustbuster, is an absolute must-have for van dwellers that need to keep their living space clean. Its Lithium technology delivers high suction and long operating duration, with a battery capacity of 1.5AH. It has a larger bowl capacity, a washable bowl, and a filter.

10. Portable Air Compressor (FORTEM Tyre Inflator Air Compressor)

We enjoy driving down bumpy dirt roads in search of out-of-the-way boondocking sites, which has resulted in multiple flat tires. Having a portable air compressor on hand has saved our lives! An air compressor can also be used to inflate and deflate tires before driving on rocky dirt roads.

FORTEM Tyre Inflator Air Compressor is suitable for use in SUVs, trucks, vans, and recreational vehicles. It connects directly to your cigarette lighter, making tire filling a breeze.

11. First Aid Kit (Surviveware Small First Aid Kit)

A first aid kit is a must-have for everyone who lives in a motorized house. You may be far from medical assistance, so you’ll want to have peace of mind knowing you can clean wounds, bandage injuries, and take medication.

Surviveware Small First Aid Kit contains a large number of medical supplies. With basic first aid knowledge, you’ll be able to sleep soundly knowing you’re prepared to deal with small injuries or emergencies.

12. Portable Shower (Nemo Helio Portable Pressure Camp Shower)

Because most campervans do not have their own shower room, the brilliant team at Helio has designed a portable outdoor shower that uses a pressure pad at your feet to re-create the ‘overhead’ shower feeling that we all know and love.

Portable Shower (Nemo Helio Portable Pressure Camp Shower)

The tough bag is made of a deep black, tear-free plastic material that has been purposefully designed to attract heat, allowing you to fill up the 11-liter shower and hang it in direct sunlight for 15 minutes to heat up the water inside, giving you a piping hot shower that can last up to 5 – 7 minutes at standard flow.

13. Earplugs (Honeywell Howard Leight Earplugs)

Without earplugs, I’d have a terrible night’s sleep in my van, which isn’t an option. During the night, these incredibly comfortable Howard Lights filter out the exterior sounds surrounding my van, allowing me to easily go (and stay) asleep.

How to Start Van Life?

There is no better gift in life than the ability to live it the way you wish. Van living is one of the best ways to live your life the way you want! Then you may be wondering how to begin van life. Let us explain how.

1. Determine your ‘Why?’

Every decision has a cause. A reason that will help you keep to the plan anytime you feel like giving up is because campervan life can be difficult most of the time, even if it paints a beautiful picture for the viewers.

This reason should be a solid fair reason that you can stick to, such as making yourself home on the road when you can’t afford an apartment, escaping through one of life’s miserable times towards personal space, or heading towards spreading a message of good cause to the world, such as raising funds on behalf of an organization you believe in as you travel.

2. Campervan Life Trial:

You may give the campervan lifestyle a trial run for a couple of weeks. You could rent a campervan/go extended camping with pals and do whatever activities you choose when it comes to long-term campervanning.

In this manner, you’d get an opportunity to assess your own strengths and weaknesses, as well as create a list of implications to help you build a strategy that is unique to you.

Campervan Life Trial

You might create an example budget and list all of your wants and needs that will help you save money on van life costs while you spend time in the campervan.

3. Research:

Carrying out an extensive study on van living can assist you in identifying a list of the finest vans for van life, from which you will have a range of options to choose. When you’ve decided on the best type of vehicle to meet your needs, you can begin planning its building. At this point, you can consider having a specific company build you a campervan.

You may also create your own unique creative character and design your own campervan! If that’s the case, research will help you choose every ounce of resource you’ll need to make your own campervan.

4. Budget:

A budget is a list of expenses that you will incur while living in your van. This is important van life advice when looking for how to start van life because it will allow you to greatly organize your spending given the circumstances. If you live in a campervan for a month, you can easily calculate your monthly expenses.

Once you’ve found them out, you can cancel unnecessary subscriptions, reduce restaurant meals, and promote yourself through your own cooking. You might even try designing innovative recipes, uploading them to YouTube, and earning money as your channel grows on the network.

5. Prepare your basics:

In contrast to all sophisticated methods, basics are quite important. Let me explain why: you wouldn’t go a day without showering, using the restroom, or finding a meal or two to survive. You wouldn’t enjoy living in a cramped vehicle space all the time, even if it was to meet your basic necessities.

How to Start Van Life - Prepare your basics

At such times, a gym membership might benefit you. It can provide you with the luxury of a workout and a bathroom with more space than a campervan bathroom to make you at ease.

6. Legal Work

To begin with, you must obtain vehicle insurance. It is critical that you select the appropriate insurance to meet your needs, as the insurance should cover not just the vehicle but also all of your personal items.

It is critical that you arrange for simple but vital things like mail, voting rights, registered permanent residence, and bills to be arranged in a handy authorized facility. Getting a P.O box and registering your permanent home for your parents’ address are two options.

7. Backup plans

Last but not least, always have a backup plan in place in case of an emergency. You should never go ahead into van living if you don’t know how to start van life full time. It is important to have a supply of safety equipment such as a mini fire extinguisher, a garage tool kit, and a camping tent. You could also develop a few contacts and discover safe places to stay when you need them.

Keep someone updated on your whereabouts as you travel, so that if you get caught in the middle of a dangerous situation, you’ll always have aid if you’re a lone traveler.

How to Secure Items in the Back of a Van?

It is critical to plan how you will secure your load in order to keep workers and road users safe. To safely secure a cargo, make sure it is restricted and controlled.

The sort of securing mechanism you utilize is determined by the load being transported. You must select a fastening method that prevents the weight from shifting while posing no additional dangers (e.g. working at height or unnecessary manual handling).

How to Secure Items in the Back of a Van

Tether your Contents

You can attach objects and keep them from moving about by using anchor points in the van’s load area and webbing or lashing straps.

Items should be tied to the vehicle in the direction of movement rather than perpendicular to transit to offer additional restraint if the contents are jolted while traveling.

It is critical to inspect your webbing straps for deterioration on a regular basis; even a minor cut or tear can substantially diminish its strength and capacity to secure the weight.

Line the Load Floor:

If your van doesn’t already have a floor lining, you might consider lining it with 3/4″ plywood, which serves as an excellent foundation for non-slip solutions.

You can also purchase heavy rubber mats that can be stretched across the floor of your vehicle. They will enhance the amount of friction between your merchandise and the van floor while also providing better stability when walking within the vehicle.

Although the mats prevent goods from slipping and make them more secure in travel, heavier objects must be lifted into place when loading and unloading. Previously, you could move them around the floor by sliding them.

Cover Your Contents:

If your vehicle has an open load area, such as a pick-up truck or tipper, cover your cargo with tarpaulin or netting. Before initiating your journey, secure whatever material you’re using to a solid part of the vehicle.

How to Wash Clothes when living in a Van?

Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time van dweller, it’s critical to keep your clothes and bedding clean so your van feels comfortable, healthy, and smells nice. Here is to wash clothes when living in a van. You can also watch this video:

Ingredients:

However, a couple of essential items are required first.

  • A large waterproof bag to hold your dirty clothes
  • Soap nuts
  • oil of tea tree
  • clean water

Process:

  • Put your soiled clothes in the bag, half-fill it with warm water (don’t overdo it, just cover the garments), then add some soap nuts (instructions on the package), 10 drops of tea tree oil, and seal the bag.
  • This is the easy part! The bag will be shaken vigorously between driving destinations.
  • When you arrive, empty the water, twist the clothing half dry, add fresh water, and replace the clothing without the soap nuts.

Best Power Supply for Camper Van:

1. AIMS Power 2000 Watt, 4000 Watt Peak:

The AIMS 2000-watt Pure Sine Power Inverter is a 2,000-watt inverter, as the name suggests. The AIMS Pure Sine Power Inverter has a distinct appearance that immediately draws your attention. It’s ribbed with vivid blue heat dispersion and appears to be designed for wall-mounting in an office rather than being stuck in a vehicle for travel.

The AIMS 2000 Watt Pure Sine Power Inverter is 19 x 10 x 5.5 inches and weighs around 12 pounds. The backside is easily wall-mounted using two simple screws that may be positioned along with the inverter. This heavy-duty inverter is great for powering computers, appliances, heaters, brightwork lights, and other AC items.

AIMS Power 2000 Watt, 4000 Watt Peak

2. GIANDEL 4000W Power Inverter:

It has four alternating current outlets and one USB connector for multi-purpose charging. This inverter comes with a keychain remote control that allows you to turn the inverter on and off from a distance.

It also has heavy-duty ports and terminals that make utilizing this device safer and easier. This inverter also includes a built-in cooling fan to help it work as efficiently as possible.

The Grandel 4000w power inverter is a heavy-duty inverter with alloy aluminum housing that is compactly built. It has an integrated digital display that shows the DC volts and output power.

3. BESTEK 300W Inverter:

With a 300W mains socket and two 2.4A USB connections, the Bestek 300W power inverter can power up a large number of devices at the same time. The reason it has to be in your vehicle is that there is a spare 12V socket in the back. Not only can you charge additional USB gadgets for passengers, but you can also power up a laptop.

To install the converter under a seat or something, the Bestek 300W power inverter may potentially utilize some velcro mounts or something similar. This is an odd item to keep in the car.

BESTEK 300W Inverter

4. Foval 150W Power Inverter:

The Foval 150W is one of the best-performing units on the market, yet it only weighs 8 ounces. The group is constructed with a strong aluminum shell housing that provides improved drop and bumps protection.

It also has a silent fan that provides cooling effects, reducing overheating. The model delivers 150W of electricity to many devices when plugged in. It contains a calibrated fuse that safeguards your device from overloads, overcharging, overheating, and shortcuts.

The Foval 150W has one AC outlet and dual USB ports, as well as many protection procedures. The AC outlet is great for charging iPods, laptop computers, game consoles, and other electrical devices.

5. Bapdas 150W Car Power Inverter:

The Badass auto power generator is portable and can swiftly convert the 150-watt DC POWER output to 110-volt AC power. Most notably, it allows for quick and even charging of electrical equipment.

This multi-compatible gadget includes a travel package that is lightweight and compact, as well as comfortable storage. It’s also highly portable and easy to carry around thanks to the aluminum shell design.

Notably, this gadget includes a built-in fuse that protects your device from overheating, short-circuiting, and overloads. Furthermore, the tablet has two USB CHARGING connections that can connect to a variety of devices. You can power a wide range of electrical devices.

Bapdas 150W Car Power Inverter

How do I make my van life comfortable?

There are numerous simple conveniences that might make your tiny campervan truly seem like home! Here are a few items that will make your van life more pleasant!

1. Vacuum Sealed Water Bottle:

Nothing beats a refreshing glass of warm water (just joking)! In vanlife, having a vacuum-sealed water bottle (such as a Hydroflaskor LARQ) can be a game-changer.

If you enjoy ice-cold water, it can keep it frigid for 2+ days, and if you like room temperature water, it can keep it at that temperature for multiple days.

2. Running water:

It is one item that might make you feel totally at home. You can rinse foods, do your dishes, wash your face/hands, and so on with ease. It makes van life feel more like a home than merely a camping trip. There are other ways to have running water in the van, including an electric pump, a foot pump, a hand pump, and so on.

3. Water Filter:

One of the biggest advantages of living in a van is not having to look for safe drinking water everywhere you go. Having a water filter allows you to fill up at public hoses, city sinks, water fountains, and other locations. If you don’t want a built-in water filter, try purchasing a water bottle that cleanses your water for you.

4. Nonstick Pots and Pans:

Having nonstick pots and pans in the van makes cooking and cleaning a breeze. Simply brush away the excess gunk from cooking with a paper towel and clean the rest with a quick rinse with biodegradable soap. It significantly reduces our water consumption when cleaning dishes, allowing you to travel longer and farther without having to refill your water tanks.

5. Fridge/Freezer:

Having a solar-powered fridge and freezer is fantastic! Having to get ice for a cooler every couple of days would be a pain and would quickly add up. Not to mention the fact that everything within will be soaked when the ice melts. There are plenty of excellent 12V refrigerators on the market. A DC fridge with a huge separate fridge and freezer is also available, but it takes significantly more battery power.

Van Life Essentials – FAQs

How much does it cost to start a van life?
If you’re buying or converting a new van, you should budget at least $60,000, with most new vans costing between $70,000 and $100,000. So, if you want to live in a van, you’ll need at least $10,000 upfront (and frequently considerably more), as well as at least $1,000 per month in expenses.
Where do you shower when you live in a van?
In cities, there are usually public restrooms or the option of going into a bar or cafe. If you park in a congested place, having a bathroom in your van can save you from humiliation at night! Some countries have more public restrooms than others.
Does living in a van save money?
If you’re ready to downsize, living in a van can be an excellent way to save money and travel on a tight budget. If you can do your job remotely and can deal with some of the issues described, living in a van can be a terrific choice, even if it is merely to save money.
Is van life cheaper than renting?
If you buy an old car, fix it yourself, and outfit it with modest stuff, van life can be less expensive than renting. Because rental rates are so high, even if you choose to buy newer, more expensive equipment, you will most likely save some money, but not as much.
Can you run out of oxygen in a van?
The van is filled with so much oxygen that it cannot simply let it all out. Instead, it saves everything for later, when it could be needed. In short, because the van is an infinity lung, it never runs out of oxygen.
How hard is Van life?
It takes a lot of effort to live in a van. You’re continually looking for water, parking, and dump stations (if you have an RV toilet). Every time you drive (even if it’s just a few blocks), you must ensure that your vehicle is secure and ready to go.
Can you legally live in your van?
Living in a camper van is not illegal. There are no national laws prohibiting people from living in a camper. While zoning rules vary by state, RVs and mobile homes are considered houses by the IRS. It is permissible to live in a camper in the United States if you follow the rules and stay in a designated area.

 

Conclusion:

Whether you’re relocating, camping, or participating in an extreme sport, you’ll always pack your necessary equipment. Why should living in a van be any different?

Van living is a fantastic opportunity to experience incredible destinations in a short amount of time. However, a lot of thought and planning must go into your van to ensure that it is secure, pleasant, and a place you can live for weeks or months at a time.

We’ve taken a comprehensive look at some cool van living gadgets and van life basics to add to your setup. These necessities will make your van safer. They will make certain that you have access to power.

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