As with anything..... don't just take what you read or hear at face value -do your homework.
There is a lot of hype about tiny homes, also, but you can't actually live in one for very long in many places. That is changing to allow for cheaper housing alternatives, but then there are lots of codes and rules associated.
It is similar with vans -but there is no sign of it becoming more accepted.
It is usually illegal, also.
Many places which once allowed people to sleep in vehicles no longer do so.
If you want to do it legally -part time and in approved areas -you also have to plan where you will be well in advance to avoid driving around hoping to find a spot somewhere -or to find showers, supplies, food, etc. Free vehicle camping spots are usually far from services, etc.
The more prepared you are, the less likely you will get fed up and waste ridiculous amounts of money on a hotel.
If you are thinking of traveling with pets, it is way different than being able to just leave them in the house or yard all day -and you often can't just leave them in the van due to heat, cold, etc. They will ALWAYS be with you! You might need a hotel to keep them warm or cool enough!
Same with people you might invite.
Do some trial runs just camping a few days to make sure you are comfy, have what you need, etc. Get everything set before you go, because everything is more difficult on the road.
Have as many spare parts and supplies as possible for your vehicle and everything essential.
Be or become a mechanic -even if you have an auto club membership -which you should -but that's a LOT less money and often less time wasted!
Prepare for the worst-case scenario -desert heat, blizzard, rednecks that don't take kindly to folks like you.... water, blankets, beer for bribes to make rednecks take more kindly to you, etc.
Make sure you have privacy -but don't look like you are camping (mismatched towels covering all the windows, etc.) -and you will attract a lot less attention. The stealth factor is often discussed in #vanlife circles.
Finally... you really have to be good at it (lots of thinking can cause stress for some) and proactive for it to be less expensive than a home base.
It is a very good idea -especially now -to have a vehicle you can live in COMFORTABLY -just in case you need to.
Edited by
Unknow
on Tue 12/15/20 09:27 AM