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10 Best Van Tours We’ve EVER Filmed!

Van conversion guide.

last updated: Feb 24, 2022

In the last few years we have filmed a LOT of van tours .

Each one offering unique design choices that have helped other van converters feel inspired for their own builds.

But with so many videos on offer, knowing where to start can feel daunting.

That’s why we decided it was time to put together this ultimate list of the best van tours we have so far come across.

There should be something for eveyone below, featuring ideal vans for families, couples, adventure travelers, surfers, bikers …

Absolutely everything!

So let’s get started with our first pick …

1. The Ultimate Family Van Tour

Kicking off this list of the 10 best van tours we have ever filmed is this ultra family-friendly van conversion named “Everest”. 

Everest truly is a van conversion that has family adventure written all over it.

Not only does it have the capacity to safely seat six people with seatbelts, but it also has the capacity to sleep them! 

In this van conversion, there are 4 seatbelted seats across from the door to the van, directly behind the two front seats. 

These seats have a fold-down table in between them, so this seating area doubles as a workspace, living room, or area to simply gather together and enjoy some family time.

As a unique bonus, from this seated area, there is even access to a stereo system to control music from the back of the van!

When it’s time for bed, these four seats and table transform into a double bed to sleep on. 

Behind the seats is the highlight of this van tour- a set of three platform bunk beds built into the van! 

Each bunk bed is private and cozy, with its own reading light, privacy curtain, and storage pouch. There is also a ladder built into the bunks for easy access to the top bunk.

Across from the beds is this van’s kitchen.

The kitchen is simple yet incredibly functional.

It is equipped with a sink, stove, fridge, and plenty of storage and counter space. 

Next to the sink and across from the bunk beds is this van conversion’s private bathroom . The bathroom is equipped with a toilet, and having it inside the van makes traveling in a van with kids that much more simple! 

2. The Best Self-Build Van Conversion

This elegant yet functional van is easily one of the best van tours we’ve ever filmed. 

The floorplan of this design is also one of our 10 best campervan floor plans for you to steal!

It was designed and built in just six months by a particularly talented solo female artist. 

The design of the van has a few nautical elements to it, including a raised floor running throughout the entirety of the van for extra storage. 

Having a raised floor was made possible due to the van’s extra high roof. With the extra-high roof, there is still plenty of headspace in the van, even with the raised floor.

Additionally, this van is complete with a kitchen, as well as a walk-in shower with a toilet. 

The shower is quite lovely, with a black paint that makes the walls look as if they were made of stone.

One of the most incredible features in the shower is a hand shaped oval window.

The oval window is a seemingly simple detail, which in reality, took lots of work, skill, and precision to get just right.

Beautiful artwork throughout the van is what really makes this conversion special. 

Not only are the walls covered in beautiful prints, but also more unique pieces of artwork- from a hexagonal tile backsplash to the rope lining the walls and serving as handles for all of the doors and cabinets. 

This van also has a large garage under its fixed double bed, with plenty of room to house the water tanks, as well as full-length surfboards! 

3. Solo Female Van Life

This vanlife tour features a lovely and functional van conversion, designed for a solo female living and traveling on the road!

The van has a fully equipped kitchen with a farmhouse-style sink, 2 burner stovetop, and refrigerator. 

There is plenty of counter space and room for food storage- there is even a Berkey water filter on the counter!

The numerous windows and lights in this van give it a light and airy feel- which is amplified by the white paint of the interior.

There is a sliding door with a full-length mirror on it that provides access to the cab of the van- a great feature for convenience, comfort, and safety.

Across from the kitchen is a large storage cabinet, with large sliding drawers that houses a composting toilet underneath it.

Across from the cabinet is a bench seat. 

Directly in front of the bench seat, there is a sliding table that slides out from under the bed to serve as a workspace/ living room area in the van.

The van has a fixed double bed that runs widthwise in the van- which allows for the van to feel even more spacious.

4. Van Conversion with Home Cinema

This LWB Sprinter van conversion is utterly incredible.

One of the highlights of this van conversion is its large, L-shaped kitchen. With ample counter space, it also has a beautiful mini Belfast sink, along with an impressively large four burner stove top.

The kitchen also is equipped with loads of overhead storage cabinets, and chic little shelves for spices, coffee, and even cookbooks!

Plus, a beautiful green tile backsplash gives this van’s kitchen an extra unique look.

Another of this van’s incredible and unique features is its in-home cinema! A projector screen rolls down from above the kitchen for awesome movie viewing from the bed or this van’s seating area. 

The projector screen they use for this is a Viewsonic Mini Travel Projector .

This van’s living room area consists of two bench seats at the foot of the bed, with a slide-out table between them.

This area contains sufficient seating space for three people to sit around the table.

The bed in this van is a fixed double raised platform bed. 

There is more overhead storage above the bed, as well as a full bookshelf and plenty of plants. 

Having a fixed platform bed like this allows this van conversion to have a large garage underneath for storage, and to hold their unique shower system- a Camplux instant hot water tankless shower ! 

5. Incredible Bohemian Van Tour

This camper van conversion is one of the most beautiful vans I’ve ever toured! In fact, it’s also on our list of the best campervan interiors .

This campervan conversion features another large and beautiful L-shaped kitchen. 

It has plenty of counter space, in addition to a 2 burner stovetop, sink, green waste compartment, fridge, and even an oven! 

Having a proper oven in a campervan is quite the luxury. It makes it incredibly easy to warm up meals, and in the winter time, using the oven will also warm up your entire campervan’s interior!

What really makes this kitchen unique is the decor. 

The kitchen is beautifully decorated, complete with a brass kitchen backsplash, plants, and lovely pieces of artwork. 

Above the kitchen is an access hatch to the cab.

While closing off the cab of a campervan often provides more space for the van conversion, having access to the cab is an important safety feature, as well as a comfort feature in poor weather. 

Closing off the cab but leaving a door for access like she did in this van conversion is a great way to have the best of both worlds! 

Another incredible feature in this van tour is the home office setup. 

Utilizing two bench seats and a Lagun swivel table , this van conversion is fully equipped to work remotely on the road.

When not in use as a workspace, the table flips down and combines with the bench seat to form a large bed in the back of the van.

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This van tour really demonstrates how decorative touches can make a van conversion truly incredible- and needless to say, we are thoroughly impressed. 

6. The Luxury Van Tour

Vanlife meets luxury with this next van on the list. Which once again opted for the Sprinter as the base vehicle, probably the most common van used for a conversion .

This beautiful Sprinter Van conversion is chock full of lovely details and features that make this van conversion unique.

Walking into this van conversion, the first thing you see is a vanity-style sink against the cab, directly adjacent to the shower.

The vanity area is quite beautiful, and features a sink with brass taps, and a faux marble countertop.

There is also a lovely print above the vanity. Hidden behind the print is a stealthy access point between the cab and the back of the van! 

This van also has a large bathroom accompanied with a shower and portapotty. To match the theme of the rest of the van, the shower has a brass faucet.

For an extra unique look, the shower is painted to look as if it were made of concrete!

I particularly like how they incorporated a window into the shower to provide more natural lighting inside the shower.

This van conversion’s kitchen is incredible. The kitchen also has a faux marble countertop to match the vanity, as well as a pink tile backsplash for a pop of color. 

In addition to a stove, oven, and fridge/freezer combo, this van’s kitchen is also equipped with an actual espresso machine and blender! How’s that for breakfast on the road?

The living room area in this van conversion fits snugly against the fixed double bed. 

It consists of a table and two bench seats conveniently located right in front of a window. To take advantage of the space, there is additional storage available underneath the bench seats. 

The fixed double bed is a raised platform style bed, which also happens to be one of our favorite campervan bed ideas ! 

With this setup, there is room for a large garage underneath with plenty of room to house their entire electrical unit and more!

7. The Extra-Spacious Van Tour

This van conversion features a Mercedes Vario that has been transformed into an incredible home on wheels.

They have adopted some really unique conversion ideas into their build. I love how open, light, and airy this van feels- they really make the most of the space in this van. The hanging surfboard storage is also a nice touch!

The back of the van has a fixed king bed. Above it is a projector for cozy van movie nights!

The bed is also surrounded by windows, so you can enjoy beautiful views from the bed of the surrounding environment.

There are also curtains and blackout screens for when you want the van to be dark and private.

There is a very large seating area at the foot of the bed. It consists of two bench seats and a slideout table.

One of the bench seats is quite large, and flattens into a guest bed!

The kitchen in this van is very big, and has all of the amenities.

I particularly like how they left one of the kitchen cabinets open to display all of their different spices and cooking supplies!

The use of a gray tile backsplash is also a nice decorative touch in this van conversion.

Next to the kitchen, is a large walk-in bathroom, complete with a toilet, shower, and ample shelf space for soaps and other shower necessities.

The cab of the van is open to the back, and includes a handy built-in shelf for storing drinks and other items while on the road.

8. High Comfort Van Tour

This van conversion allows for scenic drives all while in an incredibly comfortable van. 

This van is packed with great features, as well as a clean and classy look.

With a large sink, induction cooktop, and massive chest-style refrigerator/freezer combo, this van conversion’s kitchen is fully loaded. 

Above the kitchen counter is a long window, complete with a blackout screen, and three locks for safety. 

There is also plenty of overhead storage located in the cabinets above the kitchen, and the drawers underneath!

One of the most unique features in this campervan conversion is its shower setup. 

In order to maintain a completely open camper layout , the shower in this van is hidden in plain sight.

To access the shower, a section of the kitchen counter folds up to reveal a shower pan, and the cabinets above the countertop open to reveal shower curtains and a showerhead. 

When building this van conversion , they were looking for a way that allowed privacy when in the shower, without the loss of space that usually comes from building in a separate shower room. 

The living room area of the van rests at the foot of the bed with two adjacent bench seats. In between the bench seats is a table that slides out from under the bed. 

Having a separate living room space and a fixed bed is quite nice in a shared campervan, as it allows for one person to be using the living room space while the other is in bed- something that is not a possibility with other bed setups. 

The bed itself is a fixed platform bed, with his and hers overhead storage cabinets. 

I particularly like the use of netting under the storage cabinets for a little extra storage. 

There is a large garage underneath the van with ample space for the van’s electric system, water tanks, and more. 

Everything in this van can be powered off of the van’s whopping 720 watts of solar- that’s right, this van can even get off-grid.

9. Off-Grid Van Tour

This adventure van is rearing and ready to go on a national parks road trip. 

It’s a Ford Transit 148 Wheelbase, and the van’s outer features are just as cool as its interior conversion. 

This van is equipped with a massive awning to relax under, as well as intensely bright LEDs that are just perfect for rolling up to campsites late at night.

The interior of the van is impressively well-equipped for a 148 wheelbase- this van also happens to be one of the best Ford Transit van conversions !

Not only does it have two working spaces, but also a fixed double bed, 8-foot long countertop, and full shower! 

The cab of the van is left open in this conversion, and the two front seats are on swivels that turn around and meet with swivel tables to serve as a place to eat, or a workspace. 

There is also an additional bench seat that folds flat up against the van when not in use.

Across from this van’s kitchen is more storage, and a separate shower complete with a Nature’s Head Composting Toilet .

The fixed platform bed fits widthwise in this van, and even has a little bookshelf and even a shoot for dirty laundry underneath the bed! 

Having the fixed bed fit widthwise saves a ton of space in the van, and is one of the reasons why this campervan conversion is able to have so many awesome features.

There is even a TV above the bed that can rotate to be watched from both in bed, and from the front seating area of the van.

It’s incredible how this campervan has so many impressive features jammed into its 148 wheelbase, and yet still doesn’t feel cramped! 

10. The Insane Off-Road Van Conversion

Here we have another one of the best off-road Sprinter van tours – a LWB Sprinter Van named Bruce Banner.

Bruce Banner started off as a white, 2wd Cargo van- and has since been transformed into a green machine, and the ultimate off-roading vehicle.

On the exterior, this van has a Linex coat of green and black paint that protects it from scratches.

The van is equipped with very powerful LEDs, as well as a snorkel and upgraded tires for off-roading.

The roof of the van houses a huge solar panel with 375 watts of power, as well as extra gear storage.

The interior of this van is equally packed with incredible features.

The kitchen is complete with a stainless steel sink, extra large fridge, induction cooktop, and separate freezer! 

The shower is also stainless steel, and is complete with a Dometic Toilet .

Long overhead storage cabinets run lengthwise down the van, lined with LEDs for lighting.

In the front of the van, the seats are on swivels to create a workstation/ living room area to use along with a Lagun swivel table , and custom upholstered bench seat.

With so many incredible features packed both inside this van conversion and on its exterior, this is without a doubt one of the best van tours we have ever filmed!

Final Thoughts

As you’ve seen, each of these vans is unique and special, and suits a different type of van lifer.

From the incredible family adventure van Everest, to the Bruce Banner adventure van- these van conversions are seriously awesome.

I hope you walk away from this list feeling impressed, inspired, and perhaps even ready to embark on your own campervan conversion journey – I know I sure did!

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Does this sound like your dream?

• Wake up to a beautiful new view every morning with nature at your doorstep
• Live a healthy, active lifestyle that gets you outside every day
• Have the ability to travel spontaneously
• Cook your own food and sleep in your own bed while on the road
• Bring your pets along without the stress of finding pet-friendly accommodation
• Simplify your life and get rid of the clutter

Then van life might be for you. Sign up for my free email series and get my Van Life Starter Kit to learn everything you need to know about van life.

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If #vanlife has sparked your interest, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve experienced vanlife in multiple countries, and have built three of our own campervans (from scratch!).

We’ve spent multiple months living in various campervans around the world and have collected all sorts of tips and advice for anyone interested in living the van life!

Your Guide to Vanlife

If you know what you’re looking for, click the images below to jump to that topic, or just keep browsing!

This section is packed full of step-by-step tutorials & guides to help you build your own campervan conversion no matter your budget or experience level.

Tips & advice for life on the road, plus, honest insider info on what vanlife is really like (beyond Instagram!), so you can decide if it’s for you.

Advice and hacks for planning a perfect road trip. You’ll find everything from money-saving tips to how to find free campsites to ways you can be kinder to the environment.

Not sure where to begin?

That’s perfectly fine.

We’ve got the answers to all of your questions… and if we don’t we’re here to point you in the right direction (feel free to shoot us a message !). We’re here for you on your vanlife journey.

Let’s start with the basics…

What is vanlife?

Do you keep seeing the phrase “vanlife” all over social media? Maybe it’s accompanied by a hashtag and a perfectly curated photo. Or perhaps you have an acquaintance who is debating jumping into full time van life and you’re just not sure exactly what they mean.

Don’t worry – we’re gonna break it down…

Vanlife is the growing trend of people living or traveling in a converted van or vehicle.

Truth be told, vanlife looks different for everyone.

Here’s what I mean:

Basic vs. Luxe: Some have bougie camper van builds with all the creature comforts of a traditional home. Others have incredibly basic builds that essentially serve as a cheap place to sleep.

Full-time vs. Weekender: Some vanlifers live in their vehicles full-time and have no plans of quitting, while others use their campervan as an adventure-mobile for shorter trips.

Young vs. Old: Many vanlifers are young Millennials or Gen Z’s that crave adventures, and another big handful are retirees looking for an affordable and fun way to live out their golden years.

Budget vs. Freedom: Some people find vanlife because they want to save money, while others love the freedom this lifestyle brings.

Solo vs. Family: There are solo vanlifers on the road, couples, and even families with children. Those with furry friends, and others that are pet-less.

Digital Nomad vs. Gig Worker: Those that work online with full-time jobs, and others who bounce around from location to location looking for gigs.

Wildnerness vs. City: Some vanlifers spend the majority of their time in the wilderness, doing as many adventure activities as they can squeeze into a day while others base themselves around a city with the amenities they need, taking up “urban camping” at night.

We want to illustrate that there is no right or wrong way to “do van life”. Every person has their own priorities, and the beauty of this lifestyle is it can be a good fit for so many different personalities and desires.

Insider Tip: Sometimes it helps to find others who are on a similar path as you. We interviewed a bunch of very different types of vanlifers , and it could be a good idea to find someone you can relate to. Follow their journey, reach out and connect, ask advice… maybe you’ll even discover a new vanlife friend!

Living in a Van… Rebranded!

While the concept has been brought to the attention of the masses with the viral hashtag, #vanlife, in the last few years, this is not exactly a new idea. People have been living nomadically for centuries and the van life is just our modern iteration of a lifestyle free from societal conventions and geographical restraints.

You may remember the iconic Chris Farley skit on SNL that featured his character, Matt Foley. He was a motivational speaker who warned young people that if they didn’t follow a certain path, they’d wind up “living in a van down by the river”.

Farley’s comedic sketch portrayed living in a van as a threat. Something that would happen if you were unsuccessful. It’s a bit ironic because today, living van life is a dream for many people, young and old. The vanlife movement has helped make it more accepted and desirable to people from all walks of life.

If only Farley were alive today to do a reboot of this sketch!

“Why would anyone want to live in a van?” you ask…

We spelled out exactly why we love this lifestyle in our article about the best parts of campervan life , but here’s the short version…

• Simplicity: Living in a van allows people to lead a simpler lifestyle. There is not a lot of room, so you learn to make due with less and become self-reliant. This detachment from material things and the practice of minimalism can be incredibly freeing.
• Freedom & Adventure: This lifestyle gives you the freedom to travel —unrestrained by societal infrastructure. Sleep beneath a sea of stars in the middle of a pitch-black desert, wake up to the sun rising above the nearby mountain peak with the sounds of a babbling brook.

Whether you choose to live in a van full time or use your van as an adventure mobile to take you off the grid on the weekends, there is no limit to the range the van life can take you.

“Alright, I’m convinced, but where do I start?”

We understand just how overwhelming it can be to start this process so we poured all of our personal experience and advice into a resource just for you.

Enter your email below to immediately receive our Vanlife Jumpstart Toolkit , your FREE mega guide to jump-starting your #vanlife dreams!

Campervan Build

Doing your own campervan conversion can be incredibly rewarding… but it’s also incredibly overwhelming! We want you to know you’re not alone .

We’ve compiled all sorts of free resources for converting your campervan, from the very first step to the finishing touches. We’re here with you, every step of the way.

Step 1: Set a Budget

The very first thing you’ll want to do is to come up with a budget for your campervan conversion.

Before you write down any random number, it’s a good idea to do some research on the costs associated with building a camper van.

“How much does a campervan conversion cost?”

We value transparency and know how helpful it can be to see others’ experiences. We’ve broken down every single penny that went into our campervan build so you can get an idea of how much a real conversion costs. We’ve also included ways you can save money in each category as well as worthy upgrades if you have some wiggle room in your budget.

• How much does a campervan cost? : A comprehensive breakdown of all our expenses for our campervan build.

Our Advice: Track ALL of your expenses!

If you’re not paying attention to what you’re spending your money on, you will go over your budget. There are tons of decisions to make during your conversion, so you’ll want to know where you stand with your budget every step of the way.

We’re giving away the exact budget tracker we used when building our beloved “Pearl”. Keep track of all of your van conversion expenses using our trusted budget tracker. It’s our (totally free!) gift to you, because we know how big of a deal staying on budget can be.

“Is it possible to build a campervan on a shoestring budget?”

The short answer: ABSOLUTELY!

Not only is it possible, but we are also living proof that it can be done in less than one week!

Our first campervan cost less than $3,000 for the vehicle, all title & registration fees, AND the entire build. We had very little building experience, yet we completed this conversion in less than a week!

We have tons of resources based on our personal experience that’ll help you understand what to budget for and exactly how you can DIY your own campervan conversion on a tight budget.

Budget van build resources:

Our Complete DIY Budget Campervan Guide : This article is chock-full of practical tips and all the steps needed to make your own DIY campervan conversion on a small budget in just one week. 

DIY Campervan Bed Frame : A step-by-step tutorial that walks you through how to make your very own DIY bed frame for your campervan or RV.

DIY Campervan Kitchen : A step-by-step tutorial that walks you through everything you need to make your own DIY kitchen (for less than $50!) for your campervan, complete with a working sink, stove, storage and counter space for chopping all those fresh veggies!

DIY Campervan Curtains vs. Insulated Window Coverings : A comparison of different types of window covers for your van. Plus, we’ve included a detailed yet simple tutorial that will walk you through making your own DIY campervan curtains quickly and on a budget!

Step 2: Buy a Van

It may seem obvious, but the first major decision you’ll need to make on your vanlife journey will be purchasing a van to convert. Whether you are going full luxury or starting small and simple, finding the right van to fit your exact needs is important. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. 

Below is an article that’ll help you make the best decision for you: 

Best Vans for Camper Conversion : We go through all the major van models that work best for camper conversion (Sprinter van, Ford Transit and Ram Promaster + more!) along with their specs, the pros and cons, and some insider tips and things to consider when buying a van for a camper conversion.

Wanna give vanlife a try before you commit? 

It’s no secret we’re obsessed with #vanlife. However, if you don’t have the time (or interest!) in building your own van dwelling but you still want to give vanlife a test drive, we’ve got options for you…

• Best Campervan Rentals in the USA : We know how confusing renting a campervan can be so we’ve rounded up the best USA campervan rentals (for all budgets and regions!). Plus, we’re sharing insider tips, things to look for in a rental campervan, & exclusive discounts for 3 of our favorite companies!

One company we’d recommend looking into is  Escape Campervans . They have 12 different locations across North America and come fully loaded with all the gear you need for an epic road trip. Plus, their rates are fair and affordable.

BONUS:  We’ve partnered with them to give you a  10% off discount when you use our  link !

Step 3: Design Your Campervan Layout

Figuring out how you’re going to fit everything into your tiny home on wheels can be overwhelming. The articles below will help you get started with the planning process and understand what to take into consideration before you start building.

• Things to consider in your design:
• What type of bed will you have (fixed or convertible)?
• Will you have a toilet and shower?
• How much space do you want to dedicate to your kitchen?
• What do you plan to do for storage?

Let’s start the journey to designing your dream van conversion!

• How to Design Your Dream Van Build : The ultimate guide to campervan layouts, no matter your budget or the size of your vehicle. We’re walking you through essential questions to ask so that you are able to determine what’s most important and design the perfect van for your needs.
• Van Conversion Ideas & Inspiration : We’ve rounded up some unique and diverse van conversion ideas to inspire you, no matter your style or budget.

Not sure where to start?

Designing your layout is the first step of any van conversion. However, we know it can get overwhelming with all the different options. Be sure to nab our Van Build Planner to gather ideas and start thinking about what’s most important to you in your campervan conversion.

“What is a fixed bed vs. a convertible bed?”

You may hear the terms “fixed bed” and “convertible bed” being thrown around a lot when talking about campervan conversions. They are essentially the two categories that all campervan beds will fit into. Choosing between these two will make a huge (and I mean HUGE) impact on your overall campervan layout. Find out what the difference is and which bed type is best for your needs in the article below.

• Best Designs for Your Campervan Bed : All the different bed layouts that are possible in a van, plus considerations such as price, space, and comfort.

“I really love your van layout, is there some easy way I can replicate it?”

Yes! We’ve put together the exact measurements & blueprints to our van build so you can get started on yours ASAP. Using a template like this one will help you get on the road faster!

Step 4: Begin Your Van Build

Once you have your campervan layout finalized, you’ll probably be itching to start the fun stuff — building out the living spaces like the kitchen and bed areas. Unfortunately, there are a few steps you’ll need to take before you can get to that point.

Be sure you have plans for the following:

• Insulation & sound dampening
• Installing windows (optional)
• Adding a ceiling fan for ventilation (optional)
• Walls & Ceiling

Campervan insulation

Insulating your van will be one of the very first things you’ll want to tackle and we’re going to make it easy for you with our comprehensive guide.

• Campervan Insulation Guide : From natural wool insulation to 3M Thinsulate (and all the options in between), we’re sharing the best types of van insulation along with their price points and pros and cons to consider. Plus you can follow our exact process for insulating your van.

Check out our YouTube tutorials for step-by-step instructions!

“Is there an outline or a course I can follow to show me exactly how to build my campervan?”

It just so happens there is…

After building two campervans completely from scratch, we decided to create the resources we wish we would’ve had along the way. We spent the better part of a year creating Van Conversion Academy .

We spent countless hours sifting through Instagram, Pinterest, blogs, YouTube videos — the whole gamut. And after going cross-eyed from all our research, we were more confused than ever. Sound familiar? More than once, we purchased the wrong (non-returnable) item and had to start projects from scratch.

We created this course so you don’t have to waste your valuable time & money (like we did!). It’s exactly what we wished we’d had when we were building our campervans.

WHAT YOU’LL GET:

• Step-by-step instructions
• Blueprints you can copy
• Video Tutorials
• Tips & Recommended products
• Exclusive Facebook Group access
• Lifetime access to the course

No more headaches or hours of research… Click below to learn more about  Van Conversion Academy and get on the road faster!

Step 5: Build Your Living Spaces

And now the fun part! This is where you get to really dig in and start creating the space you will call your home on wheels. From kitchens to bed ideas to campervan toilets, we’ve covered it all and are here to help you get building!

• Campervan Kitchen Ideas : We’ve designed not one but two campervan kitchens and are here to share our best ideas and guide you through the big decisions you’ll have to make along the way.
• On the topic of toilets, here’s our honest review of our Nature’s Head Composting Toilet . We’re divulging insider tips and explain if this campervan toilet is worth the hype or not…
• Campervan Bed Designs : All the different bed layouts that are possible in a van, plus considerations such as price, space, and comfort.
• Campervan Storage Solutions : We’re sharing our own storage solutions as well as creative inspiration from other vanlifers so you can design the best campervan storage for your needs.

Still feeling stressed and overwhelmed?

Take the guesswork & stress out of your van build with our exclusive BLUEPRINTS…

If you’re sitting here thinking, “I think I’m ready to tackle this van build on my own, but I’m not sure where to start with the technical stuff,” don’t worry, you’re not alone!

We understand how complicated building a campervan solar electrical system or water system can be (after all we’ve done it twice!).

Taking the time to comb through hundreds of hours of YouTube tutorials and blog articles is one way to tackle this, but we have an easier solution to simplify your van conversion…

We put together the exact measurements and instructions for you to replicate some of the more complicated systems in our van build, from our exact campervan layout to the electrical, water and propane systems setups.

But wait… it gets even better!

Bundle all 4 of our BLUEPRINTS in one single purchase to get an exclusive discount!

Want to learn exactly how to build and install your solar-powered campervan electric system? 

Installing electricity in your campervan can seem like an overwhelming task, especially if you have no prior experience working with batteries, wires and solar panels.

Save yourself the headaches and hours of research we went through with step-by-step instructions, video tutorials, tools & materials lists and blueprints you can actually copy so you can get electricity anywhere!

Click below to learn more about our Electrical System Workshop .

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Possibly the most exciting step in this van build process, adding the finishing touches to your van will help you turn your vehicle into a home. Use the resources below to help you put the final touches on your home on wheels!

• How to Get Internet in an RV or Camper : A guide that goes over all different campervan WiFi options (for all budgets and Internet needs).
• DIY Campervan Curtains vs. Insulated Window Covers : A comparison of different types of window covers for your van as well as a detailed yet simple tutorial that will walk you through making your own DIY campervan curtains quickly and on a budget!

“I want to save money and make insulated window covers myself!”

Great, you’re gonna LOVE them!

These insulated window covers are a game-changer for your van! Magnetic inserts help you regulate the temperature inside your van, blackout the sun, and most importantly give you 100% privacy. You can purchase these window covers online, but they’ll run you a pretty penny (like a whopping $500+ penny!).

With our tutorial you can easily make these insulated window coverings at home for a fraction of the cost.

“Where can I find the exact items you used in your campervan?”

We are constantly getting asked where to buy some of the products we used in our van so we decided to make it easy for you…

We put all of the tools, materials, products and pieces together in one place so you can easily shop our van .

Getting your DIY campervan build insured

There’s one important step you won’t want to forget after your camper van build is complete… insurance! 

We’ve met enough campervan owners to know that  disasters can happen while on the road . And after all the hard work you put into building your home on wheels, it’s a good idea to get insurance to back you up!

• Campervan Appraisal: How much is your DIY van worth? : A campervan appraisal is essential to getting your rig insured for the correct amount. We’re sharing exactly how to get a campervan appraisal quickly and affordably so you’re covered to hit the road.
• Campervan Insurance: How to Get Full Coverage for Van Life : Having proper campervan insurance is extremely important, but the process can be really confusing. We’re sharing everything you need to know about getting insurance for a self-build van conversion (+ some seldom talked about tips!) so that you can be sure you’re covered in case of an accident.

Don’t forget to watch our van tour!

Living in a Van

Here you will find all kinds of tips and advice about how to live in a van, plus behind the curtain knowledge about what it’s really like, and how to decide if #vanlife is for you.

Wondering how to live in a van?

You’d be surprised at how easy it is to settle into vanlife. The transition from a traditional home to a tiny house on wheels may sound daunting, but we promise you it’s possible for anyone – whether you’re a digital nomad, a small business owner or a family of five!

We spent a summer living in our first van, Vinny , while road tripping the western United States. While our second van, Pearl , got a few upgrades making it easier for us to go off-grid and stay for longer periods of time, the concept is still pretty much the same. The articles below will help answer some of your most burning questions about living in a van, from what a day-in-the-life looks like to how we keep ourselves clean.

• A Day in the Life: Living in a Campervan : Join us in this vlog-style video as we cook meals, explore Mount Baker Wilderness and just live a normal day in Vinny the van!
• Campervan Gear Essentials : Our favorite travel products and van life essentials from camping gear to kitchen supplies to creative storage that’ll make your tiny home life on the road easier.

“How do you get mail on the road?”

This is an excellent question, and definitely something you’ll need to think about before jumping into full-time vanlife. There are a handful of solutions, so read through and see which sounds like it would work best for you.

For general mail:

Use a trusted friend or family member’s address. This isn’t ideal for everyone, but if you have someone you trust to open those important letters or hold things on your behalf, this can be a good temporary option.

Rent a P.O. box. This is a good solution if you’re based in one region and can make it to your P.O. box every so often to physically be able to pick up your mail.

Sign up for a digital mailbox. If you will be roaming around and aren’t able to physically pick up mail at a P.O. box or a friend’s house, a digital mailbox is a good option. There are different packages you can choose from, but most companies will open and scan a certain number of letters per month. This is really useful for getting access to important documents even if you’re on the road. The company we use is called Earth Class Mail , which is pretty affordable and doesn’t require a contract!

For packages or individual pieces of mail:

Use Amazon lockers. This only works for orders on Amazon, of course. They are quite convenient because these lockers are pretty common in cities big and small.

Have items shipped to a USPS location. If you need to get a package on the road (that isn’t through Amazon), USPS stores can hold it for you. We once ordered two backpacks and had them shipped to the USPS location in Telluride because we knew we’d be in that area when the package arrives. This is known as “General Delivery” and mail will be held for up to 30 days. After that timeframe, it will be returned to the sender.

“How do you shower in a campervan?”

This is a question we get asked all. the. time.

The answer really depends on how you decide to design your campervan. Some vanlifers have a dedicated shower inside their van. Others have a spigot outside to rinse off. And others still have no shower at all.

Indoor shower: This allows you to shower anywhere — even while parked in the middle of a city. With an indoor shower, you’ll have complete privacy, but it does take up valuable space inside your van. You’ll also need to monitor your water usage because you will be responsible for filling and dumping your tanks.

Alternative: We’ve seen some builds with a collapsible shower that folds up when not in use, meaning it won’t take up as much space as a dedicated shower. That said, it will require you set it up and tear it down each time you want to shower.

Outdoor shower: Simple to install and doesn’t take up any space inside your van. You must be sure to shower at least 200 feet from any water source and you must use biodegradable products. Additionally, you will need to seek out spots that give you enough privacy to shower (aka you can’t just rinse off in a residential neighborhood!).

No shower: If you decide not to have a shower in your van, you can get clean at many places along the road:

campgrounds

public showers (sometimes at community centers, truck stops, ski resorts, etc.)

gyms: many vanlifers get a membership to a local chain that is plentiful in their area, like Planet Fitness

How to Shower in a Campervan : We’ll show you to get clean even if you don’t have a shower in your campervan.

Note: Covid has made this a bit more difficult with gyms and campgrounds operating with limited facilities. Hopefully, this won’t be a long-term problem.

“What are some easy meals I can make in my campervan?”

While there was a bit of a learning curve, we have come to love cooking in our campervan. We have gathered some of our favorite meals that are both healthy and simple to make. Let us know what your favorite is!

Camping Meals : We’re sharing our favorite (easy & healthy) camping meals to make life easier!

“How can I make money while living in a campervan?”

There are many ways to make money on the road:

a) find a job that can be done remotely (here’s a list of remote job ideas !)

b) create your own income stream by working side hustles or selling a product from your van

b) find gig work or seasonal jobs along the road

Things to think about:

Will your job require you to work specific hours (like a 9-5), or can you get your work done as it fits into your schedule?

How much of the time will you need access to the Internet? What happens if you can’t connect?

Psst! Here’s a guide that goes over how to get WiFi in a campervan !

Will you need to be in a specific area or region in order to work this job? Will the seasons affect your ability to work?

Will you need more than one job to support your lifestyle? If so, how many hours will you need to work per week?

Working on the road is totally possible. During our first vanlife summer, we taught English online (from inside our van!) and did freelance writing, graphic design and social media management. We worked from inside our van as well as coffee shops along the way.

Now, we’re full-time travel bloggers , which allows us to work wherever and whenever we want!

“Do you ever get lonely on the road?”

This is a very personal question and everybody deals with loneliness differently.

You know yourself better than anyone else, so if you think you might be prone to getting lonely on the road, here are some tips for creating your very own van life community:

Connect with other vanlifers on Instagram or Facebook Groups and make plans to meet up.

Plan to go to a vanlife gathering (or a few!) where you can connect with like-minded people and make new friends.

Consider adopting a furry friend to be your road companion.

Make it a priority to video chat with friends and family regularly.

Create a routine that you can follow in your campervan, which will help you feel more grounded. Choose things that make you happy: yoga or stretching, going for a morning run, journaling, meditation.

Stay in places long enough to get a little sense of community. Join local Facebook groups and attend meetups.

Join our vanlife community on Facebook!

“How much does van life cost?”

We all know money plays an important role in shaping our decisions. Before you jump headfirst into vanlife, it’s a good idea to really understand how much daily life will cost on the road. For that reason, we recorded every single expense (and I mean everything!) we incurred on the road.

Living in a van can be a very inexpensive lifestyle if you really watch your spending, but it can also be easy to spend much more than you’d like…

This article will give you a better understanding of what expenses come with day-to-day vanlife and will hopefully give you a baseline to start with.

Daily Costs of Vanlife : We kept track of everything we spent during our 3-month USA road trip, so you can see how much to budget for your own campervan or RV road trip.

“How do I know if vanlife is right for me?”

I’ll be honest, living or traveling in a campervan is not for everyone.

While there are all types of vans — from very basic to straight-up bougie — not everyone is going to love being in a tiny space. There are definitely some things that are much harder on the road than they are in a traditional home.

Before jumping into this trend blindly, be sure to do some research and reflecting to be sure this lifestyle is a good fit for you.

Luckily, we’ve got lots of resources for you to start with…

Questions to Ask Your Partner Before Moving into a Campervan : Discussing these questions with your partner is a must before you even consider moving into a van together. You’ll thank us later!

Vanlife Q&A : Find out answers to all your questions about life in a campervan… even the embarrassing ones!

Best Parts of Vanlife : Wondering why anyone would want to live in a campervan? We’re sharing all the best parts of this lifestyle. 

Worst Parts of Vanlife : We break down the worst parts of vanlife – the stuff that doesn’t make it on Instagram – and if you’re thinking of converting a campervan, this is a must-read before you take the plunge!

Honest Advice & Tips from Vanlifers : If van life is even remotely interesting to you, you’ll certainly want to read these 14 inspiring and unique stories of people that are making life on the road a reality.

Have a campervan enthusiast in your life?

Searching for the perfect gift for your favorite vanlifer might seem like a challenging task, but we’re making it easy on you. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite campervan essentials that make super fun and practical gifts for life and travels on the road.

Fun & Practical Campervan Gifts : This guide is full of campervan gift ideas for all budgets and needs!

Can you do vanlife with a baby?

Heck yes! We’ve been traveling around the USA with our daughter in our van ever since she was 7 months old. We even drove from the west coast to the east coast and back all before she was 14 months old. 

We have a tried and true packing list for babes in a van that we use every time we pack up our campervan. Download our Vanlife With a Baby Packing List and make your life way easier as new parents living in a van. 

Road Trip Planning

Taking a road trip is one of the best ways to see a new place. You have absolute freedom to explore on your own schedule and get off the beaten path. Plan the ultimate  vanlife road trip with our extensive resources that cover everything from the best road trips in the US, to money-saving advice and helpful tips to travel more eco-friendly while on the road. 

How to Plan an Epic USA Road Trip : In this article, we’ll help you get your route plotted out, plus we’ll share our top tips, and the biggest road trip mistakes to avoid.

America the Beautiful Park Pass: Is it Worthwhile? : The America the Beautiful Park Pass grants you free access to over 2,000 Federal recreation areas in the United States, including all 62 National Parks. Here is everything you need to know to get your pass. 

19 Eco-Friendly Road Trip Tips : Here are all the small things we can do to make our road trips more sustainable and eco-friendly.

“Where do you park your van while on the road?”

When traveling in our van we usually prefer camping as it’s the most affordable and best way for us to really enjoy the tiny home we’ve created for ourselves. Plus there is something so magical about waking up in the wilderness! The incredible views you couldn’t get from anywhere else, waking up with the sun, starting your morning off submerged in nature. There is not a lot that tops those feelings!

Depending on where in the world you are, finding an actual place to park your van and camp for the night can be pretty easy, or it can be an ordeal.

If you’re living van life in the United States, there are tons of ways to find free camping . From camping on public land to spending the night in a parking lot, or wild camping in remote areas of a national park, you have options—you just need to know where to look…

• How to find Free Camping in the USA (+Tips & Apps) :  Ever wonder how people find free campsites? We’ve rounded up our top tips and advice as well as the best free camping apps out there. Plus, we’re sharing the no-BS truth about what free campsites are  really  like…
• BLM Camping: How to Camp for Free on Public Land : BLM (Bureau of Land Management) camping is a great way to get off the beaten path and enjoy free camping in solitude. This guide covers how to do it responsibly and where to find the best BLM camping sites. 
• Dispersed Camping: What is It & How to Find Dispersed Campsites : For camping purists, people who enjoy getting off-grid just as much as incredible views, it doesn’t get much better than dispersed camping. This guide covers all the ins and outs, from defining exactly what is dispersed camping to where to find it and what to pack. 

“What should I pack for a road trip?”

I don’t know about you, but I really hate that feeling when you first get on the road and have to wonder if you’re forgetting anything important. The worst is when you’re in the middle of nowhere and realize you’re without the essentials and there is no town for miles. This has happened to us on more than one occasion, so we decided to do something about it…

We spent hours creating this packing list so we never forget the essentials. We’re sharing it with you (for FREE!) so you can be sure that you’ve got all you need when you head out on the road.

Know exactly what to bring (and what to leave at home!) for your next road trip by following our ultimate road trip packing list .

“How much should I budget for a USA road trip?”

If you’re planning a road trip across the USA and are trying to stay on a budget, you have come to the right place! We’ve spent a lot of time living in our van while road tripping through the US and we’ve become experts at saving money along the way. 

Money-Saving Tips for a Cheap Road Trip : We put together the best, most practical and most creative money-saving tips and hacks so you can road trip for cheap!

Easy & Healthy Camping Meals : Camping is the best way to save money while living in a van, but you’ll have to come prepared with a plan for your meals. We’re sharing our favorite camping meals to make your meal planning easier!

“Where should I go on my next road trip?”

Deciding where to go on your next road trip is half the fun of planning it!

We are here to give you plenty of inspiration and advice for some of the best road trip destinations in the USA. 

We’d recommend you start here:

31 Best USA Road Trips : This MASSIVE list is packed with routes recommended by travel bloggers all around the US sharing tips about their favorite American road trip.

Here are some of our favorite road trips we’ve ever taken…

Oregon Coast Road Trip : A detailed guide filled with things to do, where to eat, and driving times so you can plan the perfect Oregon Coast road trip itinerary. Plus, we created a free map for you to follow!

Oregon Road Trip : There’s more to this state than just the coast… From National Parks like Crater Lake to spectacular views of Mount Hood to adorable seaside towns like Cannon Beach, there are so many places to visit in Oregon, and we’ve covered them all. 

Washington State Road Trip : With epic peaks and wild beaches, Washington is our favorite state in the US, and we think it’s one of the very best places in the world to take a road trip. Check out this article and see why!

Utah Road Trip : We’re here to share with you all of the best places to visit on a Utah road trip, from the famed “Mighty 5” national parks to the lesser-known draws such as a hike to ancient ruins and a cafe built into a cliffside.

Idaho Road Trip : As one of the most underrated states in the US (our personal opinion!), we’ve created a sample itinerary that brings you through some of the best the state has to offer. With just a week, you certainly can’t see it all, but this is a good start!

Want more ideas of places to visit?

Check out all of our articles on destinations around the USA!

Vanlife Around the World

While we’ve built all 3 of our campervans in the United States, there are many countries around the world that we dream of exploring by campervan.

Here’s our campervan bucket list:

• USA (mainly the Southwest, PNW, and East Coast for fall foliage !)
• New Zealand

I’m sure this list will continue to grow, but these are the top countries we’d love to explore in a campervan!

We’ve had the privilege of already experiencing a couple of these places in a van, and we couldn’t recommend it more highly!

Check out our YouTube channel for more Vanlife inspiration!

All Vanlife Resources

Best Campervan Rentals in Salt Lake City (+expert tips!)

Known as “the Crossroads of the West”, Salt Lake City is the perfect starting point for an unforgettable road trip. We’ve rounded up the best campervan rentals Salt Lake City has to offer, along with tips to help you plan the perfect adventure.

28 Best USA Campervan Rentals (+ exclusive discounts!)

Planning a campervan trip in the USA and wondering where the heck to rent a campervan from? We know how confusing this can be, so we’ve rounded up the best USA campervan rentals (for all budgets and regions!). Plus, we’re sharing insider tips, things to look for in a rental...

Best Campervan Rentals in the UK (+expert tips!)

Traveling the UK in a campervan is the perfect way to explore the country’s stunning mountain vistas, storybook villages, ancient castles, and jaw-dropping coastal scenery. This guide lays out the best campervan rentals in the UK to help you plan your dream trip.

Creative Campervan Kitchen Ideas

Designing your dream vanlife kitchen can be overwhelming because there are tons of choices to make. Don’t worry — we’ve been there (twice!) and are here to share our top campervan kitchen ideas and guide you through the big decisions like: What’s the best campervan sink? Propane vs. electric cooktop?...

Campervan Essentials: The Ultimate Van Life Packing List

Make your tiny home life easier with this campervan gear packing list. We'll show you our favorite travel products for the road from camping gear to kitchen supplies to creative storage. Are you ready for the van life?! This packing list will get you there.

The Dyrt App: Honest Review & Exclusive Offer

Finding campsites is a piece of cake when you have a great camping app! We’re sharing our honest thoughts on one of the most popular camping apps out there — The Dyrt. We are going over our insider tips, features we love, and updates we’d like to see improved. We...

How to find Free Camping in the USA (+Tips & Apps)

Ever wonder how people find free camping? We’ve rounded up our top tips and advice as well as the best free camping apps out there. Plus, we’re sharing the no-BS truth about what free campsites are really like.

Best Campervan Toilets (for all budgets!)

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Ultimate List of Van Life Events, Gatherings, and Festivals

What are van life events.

If one is ever curious about the nomadic community, you only need to attend one van life event to get a taste of the culture. Even events that are pegged as “#vanlife” events are always open to all nomadic travelers.

Everyone is welcome, from weekend warriors car camping to families living full time on the road in their converted school bus (called “skoolies”). The number one goal for every van life event is to build community around the nomadic lifestyle.

There are a variety of van life events, gatherings, and festivals. Some are sponsored and charge a fee to join in on the fun. There are typically vendor booths promoting things from new  aftermarket gear , van builds , food, music, and workshops led by well-known influencers. Often there is live music, yoga sessions, and even group arts and crafts lessons.

Builders may be available to help with your projects, mechanics sometimes offer up services, and at some point, there’s always a group planning a potluck of sorts.

For the ultimate list of van life gatherings and events happening this year, read on!

Table of Contents

• 2024 Van Life Events
• How to Choose a Van Life Event to Attend
• How to Rent a Van to Attend an Event
• Submit Your Own Van Life Event!
• Previous Years' Van Life Events

2024 Van Life Events, Gatherings, and Festivals

This list is a great starting point for van life events happening in 2024. While you can use apps like Sēkr or join van life Facebook groups to find even more gatherings, festivals or events, this list includes the most highly-attended and longest-recurring events to date!

Are you ready to find an event near you?

If you do not see an event on our list, please click the button below to submit information about the gathering! We’ll add it to the list ASAP.

January 2024

• Vanlife Pride’s annual gathering in the desert in Arizona is our FREE community-driven event. This gathering brings together queer folks and allies at the beginning of the year with the intention for new connections to form and grow throughout the year. Join us for a safe space to be your most authentic self!
• If you’ve never been to an Xscapers Annual Bash, you’re in for a surprise! We mean it when we say, “this ain’t your grandma’s RV rally!” There’s something for everyone at this one-of-a-kind event. Start your day off with yoga, a fitness class, or a sports activity. After that, you can join in on one of the many seminars put on by our very own community members covering topics related to RV life including boondocking, solar, remote work, and more!
• Welcome to the Official SkooliePalooza. We are an inclusive community primarily surrounding Skoolie and Bus life (and we even love on the Vanlifers). Our #1 rule is: Be Nice. Join us on your Skoolie Adventure!
• Set in the La Posa South BLM LTVA outside of Quartzsite, we’ll bring you events, activities, seminars, and most importantly, camaraderie around the campfire to last a lifetime. We’ll be dutch oven cooking, building lithium power banks, going hiking and kayaking, riding UTVs, holding informative group sessions, and much, much more. It doesn’t matter if you camp in a motorhome, an RV trailer, a cargo trailer, a skoolie, a fire truck, or even a tent. It doesn’t matter if you’re a YouTube creator or a YouTube viewer — any and all are welcome to circle the wagons around the campfire and make new lifelong camping friends. And we’ll have some pretty big prizes and giveaways for participants from our corporate partners RV Mattress by Brooklyn Bedding, Blu Technology, and KZ RV. Details will follow right here. Join the group now to stay informed.
• The Escapees Quartzsite Happy Hour is a long-standing tradition, and this year we look forward to continuing to bring a lively atmosphere and activities to Party on Plomosa. The Escapees event trailer, known as Freedom One, will be center stage hosting one of Escapees’ favorite community bands, The Status Crowes. So come dance, sing along, and enjoy some food on us while you reunite with old friends and foster new connections with your RVing community. Don’t worry, we’ll have porta-potties onsite, too. Sometimes, it’s the little things that matter!
• Surf’s up! Vanfest hits up the surf capital of the East Coast for sun, sand, and vans. We’ll be at Space Coast Daily Park, and have 20 acres of open space for a legendary gathering
• The Xscapers Mexico Winter Home Base is returning in 2024 and we’re headed back to Rocky Point! Join us with your hosts, Nicole and Jen in Puerto Peñasco, Mexico, for an enriching month packed with exciting activities, laid-back beach days, and chances to contribute to the local community. Join the sold out waitlist!
• Go back to Escapar, the free vanlife and overlanding meetup and event which will be held at Playa El Tecolote on January 31st – February 5th, 2024. Please RSVP to let us know you will attend, and come do something interactive and creative in one of the most beautiful places on earth.
• Instagram:  @thejournaloflosttime

February 2024

• Primitive Dispersed Boondocking Where: Ironwood Forest National Monument Bureau Land Management Land When: February 2-6, 2024 Email: [email protected] for specific questions
• This will be a gathering of Nomad friends camping in the same general area with the intention of helping each other out with small rig construction and repair projects for free. Two weeks is a very short time when it comes to construction projects, please set your expectations realistically. The is no one in charge of this gathering.  Feel free to use the discussion area of this event to post your needs or abilities. It’s best if you have all the materials and parts for your project before you come.
• Xscapers Pyro Party 2024 (Formally known as Xscapers Winter Blast) February 12th – February 19th, 2024 Join your host and fellow Xscaper, Rebecca Jane for a unique gathering in Lake Havasu City, AZ, where we have snagged a designated parking area for the 2024 Western Winter Blast & Pyro Party at the SARA Park Rodeo Grounds. The week will be filled with live music, social gatherings, and epic fireworks displays. This is a dry camping event with limited availability. 
• Western Winter Blast , held each President’s Day Weekend, is the premier pyrotechnics event of the winter. Fireworks manufacturers, show producers and pyrotechnic hobbyists come to Winter Blast from around the globe to light up the night sky over Lake Havasu City with fireworks shows and demonstrations. Experience our six-night WinterBlast Hangout pyrotechnics extravaganza and several outdoor activities in the Lake Havasu City area. This Hangout is currently sold out, but join the waiting list  and we’ll let you know if a spot opens up!
• An educational event with an emphasis on safety and responsible public land use, and hosted by Truck Camper Adventure, this is the largest and probably the best truck camper rally in America. In 2023, we hosted 332 truck campers. In February 2024, we are opening up enrollment to 450 truck campers.
• Instagram: @truckcamperadventure  
• We created a tiny village full of groovy, amazing people in our first year. Both vanlifers and van-curious coming together to create a beautiful and memorable weekend. It felt like  more than just a gathering. The sense of connection and community shared throughout the little village we created made us rethink our name and came up with something better: Peace Love & Vans Florida. Don’t miss this event that is one of the biggest and best camper van events in the Southeast.  Tickets are already selling quickly with some campgrounds sold out! Whether you’re a vanlifer or just van-curious this is a truly unique event with hundreds of camper vans and awesome people coming together featuring live music, workshops, van tours and DIY build contest and much more.
• Join the annual Skoolie Swarm for a chance to come and relax as a community. Importantly, this is not a festival. It’s a big extended skoolie family reunion in sunny Florida with over 130 registered vehicles so far. Open to skoolies, vans, box trucks, tents, RVs, etc. Daytrippers also welcome!
• Brooklyn Campervans has just moved to a new shop in East Williamsburg and we want to celebrate with a (ware)house warming and #VanLife gathering. Meet other VanLifers, hear their stories. Learn about living the #VanLife Dream! We will have delicious food and free beer. Partake in raffles and games. Feel free to invite friends, and please RSVP so we can accommodate. 
• Join your fellow Escapees and travel to Alaska to see the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights. Flying into Fairbanks, Alaska, is a journey of a lifetime and includes exciting tours with local expert guides. You can sip an appletini in an ice-carved glass, at the ice bar, on ice seats.
• At the Southeast Adventure Vehicle Expo, the biggest overlanding expo in the southeast, the overlanding community comes together to showcase the latest off-road vehicles, overland focused camping gear, and a host of adventure-geared accessories. You can also participate in educational classes, learn through hands-on seminars, and then test your skills on our obstacle course or off-road trail. All this is complemented by a variety of food trucks to satisfy nearly any craving, and raffles for prizes occurring throughout the three-day event.
• The Northern Lights are on most people’s bucket list, and the best way to see these magical dancing lights is to be there in person. Do not worry about falling asleep and missing the Northern Lights. Our guide will wake us at the proper time of night, so we will not miss anything!
• TinyFest California is coming b ack to the Del Mar Fairgrounds. Come and meet tiny home builders and van conversion specialist, talk with homeowners who have “gone tiny”, enjoy the expert speaker presentations, vendor interactions, live music, entertainment, and awesome vibe at TinyFest California.
• The Journal of Lost Time hosts A Roam of Our Own. A place for womxn, and those who identify as a woman, to gather and celebrate solo life on the road. Join us in Palm Springs.
• Wellness meets VanLife meets Party! A multi-day gathering & retreat for the nomadically inclined at a beautiful an amenity-packed campground in the southern California desert.
• Private camp land access in California’s Pinnacles. Luxury amenities include porta potties, hand washing stations, and relatively level ground to park your rig. Live music & live humans, being. Daily maker’s market. Morning yoga.
• Instagram: @descendonbend
• Welcome to Rocky Mountain Adventure Rally! Last year we changed things up, including the name of our event (previously known as Revel Van Rally). We have expanded in the previous 5 years and felt it was time to truly bring in everyone who seeks the adventure of Van Life, Overland Life, Adventure Motorcycling, and World-Class Mountain Biking under one roof at a single event. 
• Instagram: @rocky_mountain_adventure_rally
• The Escapees RV Club Solar Eclipse Event in Paris, TX promises an unforgettable experience filled with fun gatherings and activities meant to foster the famous Escapees and Xscapers community spirit. Gather with fellow RVers for 8 nights of fun and entertainment. You’ll be treated to live music performances, themed activities, and group gatherings.  The pinnacle of the event will be the Total Solar Eclipse on April 8th, with more than 4 minutes of totality over our location. This promises to be an extraordinary event that blends celestial wonder with the joys of community and life on the road.
• The Midwest’s #1 Adventure Travel Consumer Show. Attend courses to broaden your knowledge. Learn from others, and discuss ideas in our open forums. Want to know how to pack that first aid kit? What equipment is essential? How to use that navigation app? Stay tuned as we grow our seminar list to help get you on the right track!
• Instagram: @mooreexpo
• The third annual Weird Wild West vanlife and overlanding gathering will be held in Bisbee, Arizona on April 18th – 22nd, 2024 by Burnerella. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for updates.
• Meetup in Moab. Week of trails, exploring and Jeep Badge Trails all vehicle types welcome. Stay tuned for more details. Updates will be posted in the discussion thread.
• Let us do the complex and time-consuming work of planning a vacation and also driving you there, while you sit back, relax and enjoy! Board a luxury motorcoach and enjoy a leisurely ride in and around Nashville with a knowledgeable local tour guide. HOPs are fun and exciting, especially when shared with like-minded people! Remember to bring your camera!
• RendezVan is a van life gathering to celebrate the growing camper community that visit Mt. Bachelor each spring. This four-day event includes camping, skiing, live music, lawn games, local breweries and morning yoga.
• Presented by Hammock Universe – Seize a long weekend to find your joy. Meet people who share your passion for travel. Laugh as you bike, hike, or kick back around a campfire and build lasting memories with your new best friends.
• Overland Expo® is the premier overlanding event series in the world—no other event offers the scope of classes taught by the world’s leading experts alongside a professional-level trade show that brings together all the camping and vehicle and motorcycle equipment and services you need to Get Outfitted. Get Trained. Get Inspired. Get Going.
• Instagram: @overlandexpo
• Like the pioneers before us, get ready to explore the wild west for 7-nights! From bison herds, U.S. monuments, and shootouts to brothels. Interact with how life was and how nature endures in South Dakota. Join us as we ‘re-settle’ in the wild west with visits to scenic Custer State Park, the rustic Badlands, and its wildlife. We’ll get a little rowdy with gunfights in Deadwood and a brothel museum experience. We’ll chow down on local fare like bison burgers and beer. Let’s show the West we are the new RV pioneers.
• The Caravan vanlife, overlanding, and nomad event will be held at CampV in Naturita, Colorado June 6th – 10th.
• Get ready to make “extra special” camping memories at the upcoming 2024 Randi’s Adventures “Wanna Camp Together” meetup! I’ve said this same thing for the past two years, but touring the Xtreme Outdoors factory in Pennsylvania is going to make this an extra special event! Are you ready to camp together, make new friends, reunite with past buddies, learn from each other, and have some fun???
• Camping, sharing, laughing, hiking, water fun, bicycling, campfires and getting to hang out with each other! OH shoot, forgot to add: Enjoy Good food and BYOB AND SHARE!
• The Wind River Rally vanlife and overlanding gathering from The Journal of Lost Time , and will be held in Hudson, Wyoming in beautiful Wind River country Wyoming on June 20-24th.
• After the Escapade, join your fellow Escapees and travel in an air-conditioned motorcoach, along with a local tour guide, and visit Flaming Gorge, south of Rock Springs and Green River.
• See the world’s leading experts alongside a professional-level trade show that brings together all the equipment and services you need to get outfitted.
• The 29th Badlands Passion Play returns to the Badlands Amphitheatre in 2024. Join us for this epic story of faith, hope & love based on the life of Christ and portrayed on Canada’s outdoor stage.
• Instagram: @badlandsvanfest
• All vans are welcome! There is a judged van show, games and activities for both kids and adults, live music, seminars, vendors and more. The vanners will come in for up to a week and camp. Some just in their van, some with camp trailers and some in tents. 
• The Holy Toledo! vanlife and overlanding rendezvous will be held on the Yaquina River & Bay in Toledo. A temporary village of nomads, overlanders, and van lifers in celebration of the Oregon Coast & Coast Seafare.
• Set in beautiful countryside of the South Downs, only 12 miles north of Brighton and within easy access to the A27 and A23. Urban Van Fest offers a relaxing and friendly Vanlife meetup event from the experienced van life converter to the curious, all are welcome. Come and join our weekend (3 days and 3 nights camping) with entertainment, live music, food stalls, a bar, craft/artesian market, trade stalls, van exhibits, children’s area, well-being area information and more. We look forward to welcoming you, whether you are solo or a family, a couple or a group of friends!

August 2024

• We’ve nicknamed the Hangout “elements of Oregon,” for the stunning views everywhere you look. Stretching from the border with California to the iconic Bandon Beach, this region boasts a coastline marked by dramatic sea stacks, pristine sandy shores, enchanting tide pools, and coastal redwood forests. Brookings will be our haven for seven days of outdoor adventurers, with opportunities for hiking, kayaking, fishing, and exploring the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor’s stunning cliffs and hidden coves. You’ll have a unique experience walking the beach labyrinth of  Circles in the Sand  in Bandon. You’ll explore quaint coastal towns like Brookings and Gold Beach, each offering unique charm, fresh seafood, and welcoming communities.
• Descend on Bend needs no overview. Some would argue this is the ultimate van life gathering. Just be there.

September 2024

• Overland of America proudly presents a  brand new, one-of-a-kind, family-friendly  overland event in Jay, Oklahoma. This new event will be held at MidAmerica Outdoors on September 13-15, 2024 and is designed for overlanding enthusiasts of all ages to come together and experience the overlanding lifestyle. Get ready for an incredible weekend full of community, adventure and family fun! See you there!
• Intimate gathering in the Sawtooth Mountains surrounded by pristine rivers, natural hot springs, alpine lakes, geothermal swimming pool, live music, and good times.
• We’re planning the largest gathering of nomads that New England has ever seen, and we need your help! Sign up below for info on how you can make Vanfest New England a legendary experience.
• A jam packed camp-out full of live music, informative workshops, raffles, community pot lucks and a ton MORE! Created to make a safe and welcoming atmosphere for everyone. Inspired by the unforgettable community of nomads we’ve met throughout our travels.

October 2024

• The Pilgrimage is one of the largest gatherings of like-minded off-road and overland enthusiasts in the Northeast. Our participants come from all over the US and drive all sorts of vehicles ranging from Brand New Defenders to early American 4x4s.
• Instagram: @thepilgrimage.vt  
• No other event features a gathering of so many overland legends, authors, and experts. Overland Expo EAST offers more than 300 session-hours of incredible programs—that’s 150+ different classes, slideshows, demonstrations, and activities—brought to you by 100+ instructors and presenters from around the world.
• The Moonlanding III vanlife and overlanding gathering will be held at Sky View Park & Campground in New Mexico on October 11th-14th in Sky View.
• Camping. Health. Arts. Sports. Music. The destination gathering for the active, creative, and adventurous. Join us to explore camping, health, arts, sports, and music together! There’s something for everyone! And everyone is welcome! However you travel, bring your van, overlander, skoolie, RV, or tent for a Halloween weekend like no other. We’ve crafted a full schedule of activities to engage your mind, body, and soul. 
• Vanfest is back – again – in UT! Who can blame us? It’s a mind-blowing backdrop to the ultimate vanlife experience. Join the list to be the first to know once we have all the details!

November 2024

Let us do all the planning and driving while you sit back, relax and enjoy! Board a luxury motorcoach and enjoy a leisurely ride in and around Branson with a knowledgeable local tour guide and learn the history of Branson.  Sign up for this extraordinary HOP. Escapees has an exciting time lined up for you, so expect a fun-filled week! Branson is a unique experience; sharing it with like-minded people makes it even more special.  Meet amazing friends and take away new lifetime memories in the Ozarks!

December 2024

• No December events to list yet! Stay tuned.

3 Things to Consider When Choosing Your Van Life Event

How do you choose which van life event or gathering is suitable for you with so many options? There are many things to consider, but here are a few of the top things we consider when making plans to attend a van life event:

Are you building your van?

If you are planning on your build-out or are in the process of building a van yourself, you may want to go to a van life event that showcases finished builds and allows for you to speak to the builders.

Are you promoting a business?

Do you have a business that you think can benefit the van life community? You’ll probably want to attend a more formal event with space for vendors. Sometimes you can get into events for free by showcasing your van or volunteering for the event.

Looking to make like-minded friends?

You’re probably more likely to make great connections at a casual gathering than a formal expo. Frequently people host tiny van life gatherings that don’t require permitting just to get to know more people like them. This is where social media comes in great for ad-hoc impromptu gatherings. Van life festivals are also typically more relaxed and celebratory than formal events.

No Van? No Problem! Rent a Van to Attend Your Next Van Life Event!

Most van life events allow anyone to join in, regardless of your mode to get there. The only ask is to be kind and respectful, and leave no trace . But if you want to experience an event in a van and you don’t have one yet, you can simply rent one! Take a look at our extensive nationwide directory to find the perfect van rental for your van life event!

5 Steps to Finding Your Van Rental

Our directory  quickly filters van rental companies by region, state, and/or vehicle model. We have personally connected with each company and thoroughly vetted their offerings to ensure that what you see is what you get.

If you’re looking to find a  van to rent , follow these five easy steps:

1. Click here to find rental companies near you

2. Select the region from the drop-down menu on the left

3. Select your preferred van type from the drop-down menu to the right

4. Cruise through van rental company listings

5. Click on the title of a van rental company to view their profile OR click “go to “website” to head directly to their site

It’s that simple. Now all that’s left is for you to share where you’re going! Drop us a comment below with what van life events you are going to! Did we miss one? Contact us, and we’ll be happy to add it to our listing.

Hosting a Van Life Event, Gathering, or Festival in 2024? Let us know so we can help get the word out!

We know van life events take quite a bit of planning ahead of time. If you’re hosting a future gathering, odds are you have your dates locked in. Send us the details and we’ll get it added to our upcoming yearly calendars (no matter how early in advance!) 

Previous Events, Gatherings, and Festivals

• January 7 – 9: Vanlife Pride’s First Annual Meetup / Quartzite, AZ
• January 13 – 16: Van Jam Campout / San Diego, Jacumba Hot Springs
• January 21: Pre-Party on Bahía de Concepción / Escapar a la Baja, Cuatro
• January 21 – 31: SkooliePalooza / Ehrenberg, AZ
• January 28 – February 26: Xscapers Mexico Winter Home Base / Bella Vista, Puerto Penasco
• February 1 – 6: Escapar a la Baja, Cuatro / Playa Tecolote, Baja California Sur
• February 3 – 6: The Florida Vanlife Gathering / Dade City, FL
• February 9 – 12: Truck Camper Adventure Quartzsite Rally / Quartzsite, AZ
• February 13 – 15: Xscapers Winter Blast 2023 / Lake Havasu, AZ
• February 17 – 19: Vanlife Summit / Virtual Event
• February 18 – 27: Sixth Annual Skoolie Swarm / Melrose, FL
• February 24 – 26: Van Life Pride / Quartzite, AZ
• March 3 – 5: Southeast Overland & Outdoor Expo / Starke, FL
• March 3 – 5: Borrego Bonanza / Borrego Springs
• March 11 – 12: Tiny Fest California / San Diego, CA
• March 17 – 19: A Roam of Our Own / Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park – La Quinta, California
• March 26 – 29: Descend on Lost Sierra / Lost Sierra, CA
• April 21 – 22: Moore Overlanding and Off-Road Expo / Springfield, MO
• April 15 – 22: Xscapers Arizona Wine Country Convergence 2023 / Sonoita, CA
• April 19 – 23: RendezVan Mt. Bachelor / Mount Bachelor, Oregon
• April 20 – 23: Back to Baja / Rancho Grande, Bahia Gonzaga
• April 21 – 22: Moore Overlanding & Off-Road Expo / Springfield, MO
• April 20 – 24: Weird Wild West / Bisbee, AZ
• April 29 – 30: Adventure Van Expo / San Juan Capistrano, CA
• May 13 – 14:  Adventure Van Expo / Sonoma, CA
• May 19 – 21: Overland Expo West / Flagstaff, AZ
• May 19 – 21: Overland Expo West / Flagstaff, AZ
• June 10 – 11: Adventure Van Expo / Cable, WI (Adventure Series)
• June 15 – 18: Wind River Rally / Hudson, Wyoming
• June 17 – 18: Adventure Van Expo / Hood River, OR
• July 5 – 9: 50th Annual National Truck-In / Sterling, Colorado
• July 7 – 9: Overland Expo PNW / Redmond, OR
• July 8 – 9: Adventure Van Expo / Evergreen, CO
• July 20 – 23: Holy Toledo / Toledo, Oregon
• July 29 – 30: Adventure Van Expo / Topsfield, MA
• August 10 – 13: CampNation Expo / Hollister, CA
• August 13: Vans & Coffee / Boulder, CO
• August 25 – 27: Overland Expo Mountain West / Loveland, CO
• August 25 – 27: Badlands VanFest / Drumheller, Canada 
• September 1 – 4: Descend on Bend / Oregon Outback  Map coordinates: 43.3937281,-121.2112945
• September 2 – 3: Adventure Van Expo / Ogden, Utah
• September 9 – 10: New England Overland Rally / Thompson, CT
• September 14 – 17: Van Wild Colorado / Montrose, Colorado
• September 16 – 17: Adventure Van Expo / North Lake Tahoe, CA
• September 21 – 24: Vanquinox / Grandjean, Idaho
• September 21 – 25: Northwest Nomads / La Pine, Oregon
• September 22 – 24: Revel-Mode Van/Rocky Mountain Adventure Rally / Grand Junction, Colorado
• September 29 – 30:  Big Iron Overland Rally / West Mineral, KS
• September 30 – October 1: Adventure Van Expo / Bend, OR (Redmond Expo)
• October 5 – 8: The Pilgrimage / South Royalton, VT
• October 6 – 8: Overland Expo East / Arrington, VA
• October 7 – 8: Adventure Van Expo / Chattanooga, TN
• October 12 – 15: Moonlanding 1 / Sky View, New Mexico 
• October 12 – 15: OCRV & Van Lifestyle Show / Ocean City, MD
• October 14 – 15: Adventure Van Expo / Big Bear Lake, CA
• October 20 – 22: 7th Annual James River Roof Top Tent Rally / Gladstone, Virginia
• October 27 – 30: C.H.A.S.M. Fest ’23 / Lake Havasu, AZ 
• November 2 – 4: VanKamp / Ozark, Arkansas
• November 2 – 5: Vanarky in the Ozarks / Ozark, Arkansas
• December 29 – January 1: New Year’s Eve Meetup 2024 – FREE EVENT
• January 7 – 9: Van Life Pride’s First Annual Meetup  / Quartzite, AZ
• January 29:  Sēkr San Diego Van Life Meetup  / San Diego, CA
• February 14 – 21:  Escapers Winter Blast Convergence / Lake Havasu, AZ
• February 19 – 28:  Fifth Annual Skoolie Swarm  / Melrose, FL
• March 5 – 13:  Xscapers Tucson Convergiance  / Tucson, AZ
• March 12 – 13:  TinyFest California  / San Diego, CA
• March 25 – 27: BuenaVantura  / Ventura, CA
• April 8 -10:  Midwest Overlanding and Off-Road Expo  / Springfield, MO
• April 21 – 24:  Back to Baja  / Baja, Mexico
• April 22 – 24:  Weird Wild West  / Bisbee, AZ
• April 30 – May 1:  Adventure Van Expo  / San Juan Capistrano, CA
• May 12 – 16:  Grand Design Kanab Utah Rally  / Kanab, Utah
• May 20 – 23:  Descend on Lost Sierra  / Lost Sierra, CA
• May 20 – 22:  Overland Expo  / Flagstaff, AZ
• June 4 – 5:  Adventure Van Expo  / Placerville, CA
• June 18 – 19:  Tennessee Tiny House Festival  / Nashville, TN
• June 24 – 26:  Adventure Van Expo  / Hood River, OR
• July 8 – 10:  Overland Expo NW  / Redmond, OR
• July 15 – 18:  Holy Toledo!  / Toledo, ID
• July 15 – 18:  Open Roads Fest  / McCall, ID
• July 20 – 24:  49th Annual National Truck-In  / Old Washington, OH
• August 26 – 28:  Overland Expo Mountain West  / Loveland, CO
• August 26 – 29:  Descend on Bend  / Oregon Outback
• September 2 – 4:  Adventure Van Expo  / Redmond, OR
• September 22 – 24:  VanFest 2022  / Grantsville, UT
• September 29 – October 1:  Revel-Mode Van Rally  / Moab, Utah
• October 1st & 2nd –  Adventure Van Expo – Chattanooga, TN
• October 7 – 9:  Overland Expo East  / Arrington, VA
• November 3 – 6:  Vanarky in the Ozarks  / Ponka, AK
• December 3 – 4:  TinyFest SW  / Phoenix, AZ
• May 8: VanFest / Hurricane, UT
• June 19 – 20: Adventure Van Expo / Hood River, OR
• June 25 – 27: Outside Adventure Expo  / Salt Lake City, UT
• July 31 – August 1: Adventure Van Expo – Utah  / Logan, UT
• August 20 – 22: Revel Van Rally / Durango Colorado
• August 21 – 22: Adventure Van Expo – Colorado / Dillon, CO
• August 27 – 29: Overland Expo – Mountain West  / Loveland, CO
• September 2 – 6: Descend on Bend / Oregon Outback
• September 4 – 5: Adventure Van Expo – Bend OR / Redmond, OR
• September 18 – 19: Adventure Van Expo – Tahoe / Homewood Ski Resort
• September 24 – 26: Overland Expo – West  / Flagstaff, AZ
• October 2 – 3: Adventure Van Expo – Chatt, TN / Chattanooga, TN
• October 8 – 10: Overland Expo – East / Arrington, VA
• October 17 – 18: Adventure Van Expo – Big Bear, CA  / Big Bear Lake, CA
• November 5 – 7: Vanarchy In The Ozarks  / Ponca, AR
• January – July: The Vanlife App: Baja to Alaska 2020 Tour / Kicks off in San Diego, CA but has meetups and events from Baja to Alaska over 6 months
• January 31 – February 2:  The Vanlife App: Ensenada Reunión – Vanlife Campout  / Ensenada, Baja California
• February 1 – 2:  Know HOW Expo (Homes on Wheels) / Ocala, Florida
• February 4 – 14:  Xscapers Baja Chill Peeps Convergence / Baja, Mexico
• February 6 – 8: Colorado Springs RV & Outdoor Show / Colorado Springs, CO
• February 6 – 9:  St. Paul RV, Vacation & Camping Show / Minneapolis, MN
• February 14 – 17:  Springfield RV Camping Show / West Springfield, Massachusetts
• February 15:  The Vanlife App: Playa Armenta Rendezvous / Playa Armenta
• February 27:  Intro to Vanlife workshop at REI / Santa Rosa, California
• February 29:  TouRig Weekenders Rally Series #1 / Denver, CO
• February 29 – March 8:  Xscapers Casa Grande Convergence / Casa Grande, Arizona
• February 29 – March 1:  TinyFest California  / Del Mar Fairgrounds, San Diego, California
• March 3:  Intro to Vanlife workshop at REI / Durham, North Carolina
• March 7 – 8:  Four Wheeler Adventure Expo 2020 / Costa Mesa, CA
• March 14: TouRig Weekenders Rally Series #2 / San Diego, CA
• March 14 – 15:  Great American Tiny House Show / Tampa, Florida
• March 19:  Intro to Vanlife workshop at REI / Santa Monica, California
• March 19 – 22:  The RV Entrepreneur Summit / Lake Guntersville State Park, Alabama
• March 21:  TouRig Weekenders Rally Series #3 / Los Angeles, CA
• March 26:  Intro to Vanlife workshop at REI / Las Vegas, Nevada
• March 28 – 29:  Great American Tiny House Show / Denver, Colorado
• March 28 – 29:  Florida Suncoast Tiny Home Festival  / St. Petersburg, Florida
• April 4 – 11: Xscapers Bishop Convergence / Bishop, California
• April 22 – 26: RendezVan / Mt. Bachelor, Oregon
• April 24 – 26: Smokey Mountain Overland Rally  / Cosby, TN
• May 9: TouRig Weekenders Rally Series #4 / San Francisco, CA
• May 11 – 14: Tourig Overlanders 2020 Rally Series, West / Moab, UT to Flagstaff, AZ
• May 17 – 19: Overland Expo / West Flagstaff, AZ
• May 30 – 31: Adventure Van Expo  / Big Bear Lake, CA
• June 6 – 7:  People’s Tiny House Festival / Golden, CO
• June 13 – 14: TinyFest Midwest / Des Moines, Iowa
• June 18 – 21: Tampa Summer RV Show / Tampa, FL
• June 25 – 28: Open Roads Van Life Festival / Jug Mountain Ranch, McCall, Idaho
• June 27: TouRig Weekenders Rally Series #5  / Denver, CO
• July 17 – 20: Vanstock Alaska / Palmer, Alaska
• July 18: TouRig Weekenders Rally Series #6 / Boise, ID
• July 10 – 12: Adventure Van Expo / Missoula, Mt
• July 25 – 26: Adventure Van Expo / Grand Targhee, ID
• July 30 – August 2: Rocky Mountain Overland Rally  / Gunnison, CO
• August 1: TouRig Weekenders Rally Series #7 / Portland, OR
• August 8: TouRig Weekenders Rally Series #8 / Seattle, WA
• August 14 – 21: Xscapers Alaska Cruise / departing from Seattle, WA
• August 13 – 16: Mid Atlantic Overland Festival / Huntingdon, PA
• August 15 – 16: Adventure Van Expo Mt. Hood / Meadows, OR
• August 22 – 23: Adventure Van Expo / Dillon, CO
• August 24 – 27: Tourig Overlanders 2020 Rally Series, Mountain / Dillon, CO to Loveland, CO
• August 28 – 30: Overland Expo Central  / Loveland, CO
• September 3 – 7: Descend on Bend at Outback Station / La Pine, Oregon
• September 5 – 6: Adventure Van Expo / Lake Tahoe, Ca
• September 16 – 20: 52nd Annual America’s Largest RV Show / Hershey, CA
• September 19: TouRig Weekenders Rally Series #9 / New York, NY
• September 28 – October 5: Fulltime Families Balloon Experience  / Albuquerque, NM
• October 2 – 11: California RV Show / Fontana, CA
• October 9 – 11: Overland Expo East / Arrington, VA
• October 12 – 15:  Tourig Overlanders 2020 Rally Series, East / Arrington, VA to the Ozarks

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52 Best Van Life YouTubers of 2023 (Ranked by Popularity)

We searched through YouTube to find the best van life YouTube channels for people interested in learning about living and traveling in a van. These van life YouTubers share their experiences and helpful advice for van life on the road. This list of van life YouTubers is ranked in order of popularity based on the highest subscriber count.

1. Eamon & Bec

2. kombi life, 3. jinti fell, 4. nate murphy, 5. hobo ahle, 6. the indie projects, 7. new jersey outdoor adventures, 8. vancity vanlife, 9. susi cruz, 10. hobotech, 11. the matneys, 12. leaw leave everything and wander – luca & sara, 13. mr and mrs adventure, 14. tread the globe, 15. adventurevanman, 16. element life, 17. kitevanman (alex & amy), 18. enigmatic nomadics, 19. campervan kevin, 20. life with anthony, 21. the expawers, 22. hughtube, 23. into the mystery 13, 24. jax austin, 25. thegalavan, 26. kaya lindsay, 27. vantastic, 28. where’s my office now, 29. campervanculture.com, 30. static campervan, 31. beyondthevan, 32. vanlife sheldon’s travels, 33. explorer buddies, 34. from rust to roadtrip, 35. luke’s van life, 36. westfalia digital nomads, 37. evie nova, 38. iveavan, 39. torin by the ocean, 40. shuttle babe -beachcricket, 41. nomads around australia, 42. lost on land again, 43. campervan tales, 44. vince amendola, 45. wannabfree, 46. pack the van and go, 47. the vantasy life, 48. out of this van, 49. campervanya – solo van life uk, 50. david sandel, 51. travel camp 365, 52. the travel life mama.

we’re Eamon & Bec

Subscribers: 1,180,000

Views: 150,223,380

Videos: 361

Average Views Per Video: 416,132

Joined: Mar 15, 2014

The Original Van Life Adventure Series. Join us for the ride

Subscribers: 536,000

Views: 61,371,833

Videos: 376

Average Views Per Video: 163,223

Joined: Sep 30, 2012

We are a traveling family of 4 about to embark on a trip around the world. Thanks for being here 🙂

Subscribers: 458,000

Views: 49,560,353

Videos: 162

Average Views Per Video: 305,929

Joined: May 20, 2016

On this channel, I show you how to convert a van into a camper van, create tours of van conversions (for your inspiration) and share my process of doing my best to practice what I preach; using alternative ways of living so that I can live a more free and adventurous life.

Subscribers: 401,000

Views: 83,988,506

Videos: 510

Average Views Per Video: 164,684

Joined: Jan 8, 2007

Subscribers: 353,000

Views: 23,799,093

Videos: 178

Average Views Per Video: 133,703

Joined: Dec 14, 2015

We’re Theo & Bee, and together with our cat Ginjey Bear we live and travel full-time in our self-converted Sprinter van!

Subscribers: 350,000

Views: 65,972,468

Videos: 548

Average Views Per Video: 120,388

Joined: Aug 8, 2014

This channel is about van life, camper van and RV walk through tours, DIY campers and motor homes. The host of the channel, Patrick Botticelli finds all these amazing creations, films and edits the videos.

Subscribers: 294,000

Views: 74,226,678

Videos: 1,025

Average Views Per Video: 72,417

Joined: Jun 8, 2013

The Van Life Adventures Of Chrome n Cruz. We live full-time in a 2004 Ford E250 Extended cargo van. We are from Vancouver Canada and sharing out travels and journey with you here on youtube.

Subscribers: 262,000

Views: 88,202,366

Videos: 1,602

Average Views Per Video: 55,058

Joined: Jun 16, 2013

I’m a little adventurous, curious, positive girl who has an extrem urge to travel the world to learn about culture, lifestyle and the food.

Subscribers: 217,000

Views: 19,441,699

Videos: 155

Average Views Per Video: 125,431

Joined: Apr 12, 2015

Tech Product Reviews, Mobile Tech How To’s, DIY Solar Power, Off Grid Power Generation / Power Storage Solutions, Mobile Electronics / Internet, Solar Generators, Power Stations, Electric Bikes, Full Time Living Off Grid, RV / Van Life videos

Subscribers: 168,000

Views: 18,932,582

Videos: 275

Average Views Per Video: 68,846

Joined: May 7, 2017

We’re The Matney’s (Nick he/him & Aubry she/her) and for the last 4 years, we’ve been driving across the Americas in our Sprinter van, Morrison. We even made it all the way to Argentina from our home of the U.S.!

Subscribers: 129,000

Views: 11,977,787

Videos: 265

Average Views Per Video: 45,200

Joined: Oct 9, 2016

We are Luca and Sara, an Italian couple of explorers and storytellers! We are the first youtube couple adventurers driving from Deadhorse Alaska to Ushuaia Argentina with an old truck camper.

Subscribers: 126,000

Views: 25,107,222

Videos: 499

Average Views Per Video: 50,316

Joined: Mar 10, 2017

We are Brittany and Drew, husband and wife, who have been traveling the world by van for 8 years and counting! It all started with an idea to teach English in Asia, when we were offered an unused camper to explore our own country 1st!

Subscribers: 105,000

Views: 11,813,251

Videos: 309

Average Views Per Video: 38,231

Joined: Mar 21, 2013

In Jan 2020 we set set off on the ultimate van life adventure – to drive all the way around the world. After reaching the end of Turkey & with borders closed to the east we’ve made the decision to go the other way. So we’ve shipped our van to the USA.

Subscribers: 96,800

Views: 14,464,105

Videos: 582

Average Views Per Video: 24,853

Joined: Jun 27, 2017

In 2014 I moved into a self converted camper van. A year later I hit the road to pursue seasonal work around the U.S. and enjoy as much time camping in nature along the way. I am currently in a 2010 GMC 10 foot box van that I build as a camper.

Subscribers: 95,200

Views: 20,704,302

Videos: 604

Average Views Per Video: 34,279

Joined: Feb 25, 2011

I started this journey in 2016 in a self-built Honda Element camper. Since then, I’ve upgraded campers (twice), traveled across North America, and met some amazing people along the way.

Subscribers: 86,000

Views: 16,234,497

Videos: 442

Average Views Per Video: 36,730

Joined: Dec 10, 2015

Hi we are Alex & Amy!

Subscribers: 83,400

Views: 13,916,247

Videos: 185

Average Views Per Video: 75,223

Joined: Jun 25, 2017

I now live full-time in a school bus that I bought at a public auction and made into a camper. My channel has traveling lifestyle content as well as van build festivals, interviews of other nomads, and some how-to content on solar systems and building out your rig for full-time off-grid living.

Subscribers: 79,200

Views: 11,054,604

Videos: 420

Average Views Per Video: 26,321

Joined: Jan 18, 2015

Follow my three little Yorkies- Martini, Baby MaeMae, Tucker and I on our adventures as we travel the USA in our Promaster Campervan!

Subscribers: 69,000

Views: 23,179,077

Videos: 1,021

Average Views Per Video: 22,703

Joined: Apr 9, 2007

I’m 57 yrs old and I live in my 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan. My channel is not just about living in my minivan, but my life and how I navigate it.

Subscribers: 67,900

Views: 10,237,351

Videos: 758

Average Views Per Video: 13,506

Joined: Nov 5, 2014

A Vanlife travel channel.. We are Nick and Sarah a couple originally from the UK who relocated to Spain over 15 years ago.

Subscribers: 56,300

Views: 10,662,446

Average Views Per Video: 28,358

Joined: Jun 23, 2017

My name is Hugh and very simply I am an amateur DIY van converter looking to learn, explore and expand both my knowledge and personal experiences.

Subscribers: 43,100

Views: 6,857,899

Videos: 288

Average Views Per Video: 23,813

Joined: Sep 24, 2010

This channel is dedicated to living #Vanlife to the fullest!

Subscribers: 41,800

Views: 8,311,658

Videos: 483

Average Views Per Video: 17,209

Joined: Jun 10, 2014

After quitting my job and selling everything, I’m road tripping 49 states as a daily vanlife travel vlogger. Over 4 months, I converted a retired school bus into a pimped out reclaimed wood skoolie RV.

Subscribers: 32,300

Views: 4,420,384

Videos: 585

Average Views Per Video: 7,557

Joined: Dec 23, 2006

Hi, I’m Joni, the creator and road guide here at TheGalavan. I help nomads and aspiring nomads discover ways to make life on the road work for them.

Subscribers: 28,300

Views: 3,773,389

Videos: 224

Average Views Per Video: 16,846

Joined: Nov 18, 2017

I make tutorials on how to fix your van, I interview other women I meet on the road, and sometimes I just talk about how to connect with a larger vanlife community.

Subscribers: 26,000

Views: 4,139,778

Average Views Per Video: 55,943

Joined: Apr 17, 2015

Hi. We are a minimalist couple living happily off the grid in a tiny camper van since 2016 and we are searching for simplier life.

Subscribers: 24,300

Views: 5,622,653

Videos: 581

Average Views Per Video: 9,678

Joined: Mar 7, 2016

A couple and their rescue pup have lived the dream in a vintage VW Van for nearly five years, traveling America following their passions.

Subscribers: 23,400

Views: 2,391,407

Average Views Per Video: 27,808

Joined: Aug 8, 2012

What started off as just sharing a few short videos of me goofing around with my mates in 4×4 vans and that has some how organically grown into a successful self supporting business and trusted brand we are today.

Subscribers: 20,300

Views: 4,397,658

Videos: 209

Average Views Per Video: 21,042

This channel is also intended to explain why I choose to live in a van. Also to answer why I chose my van and why I do not intend to travel, thus the name Static.

Subscribers: 19,600

Views: 2,862,019

Videos: 460

Average Views Per Video: 6,222

Joined: Apr 11, 2008

I’m Richard and I’m here sharing with you my full time living and working on the road with my Border Collie, Ted, in my self converted LDV Convoy home on wheels!

Subscribers: 16,100

Views: 1,991,105

Average Views Per Video: 31,112

Joined: Jun 9, 2016

Hello, welcome to our channel. Come along as Sheldon our turtle explores the US.

Subscribers: 14,100

Views: 1,840,577

Videos: 765

Average Views Per Video: 2,406

Joined: Dec 4, 2011

We sold Florence and purchased Atlas, a bigger van. We quit our jobs, sold everything, and hit the road full time.

Subscribers: 12,900

Views: 1,090,032

Average Views Per Video: 15,353

Joined: Aug 24, 2014

Two young travellers exploring Europe and beyond in their t(rusty) old LDV Convoy van. Creating travelogues, filming documentaries, meeting locals, searching for hot springs and pushing our rusty old van to its limits.

Subscribers: 12,200

Views: 1,439,676

Videos: 106

Average Views Per Video: 13,582

Joined: Nov 15, 2016

In 2017, un-skilled I attempted my first self build camper van conversion and travelled to Europe in the van. Somewhere during the process of building/vlogging/travelling I became addicted!

Subscribers: 11,300

Views: 1,297,810

Videos: 272

Average Views Per Video: 4,772

Joined: Dec 5, 2015

Hi, we’re Armando and Mel, an Italian videographer and an American writer. We’ve been living in a van (our T4 VW Westfalia named Mork) and traveling Europe since 2012.

Subscribers: 9,960

Views: 1,473,340

Videos: 428

Average Views Per Video: 3,443

Joined: Aug 2, 2013

I got rid of (almost) everything I owned, bought a van, and decided to follow my dream which is traveling the country and the world, documenting every step of the way (bad and good).

Subscribers: 9,320

Views: 1,356,811

Videos: 236

Average Views Per Video: 5,750

Joined: Dec 20, 2016

Video series of our DIY Self build Camper Van / Camper Van Upgrades upon my 2005 Iveco Daily LWB Van & Off Grid Workshop Build.

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Views: 912,821

Average Views Per Video: 15,472

Joined: Apr 25, 2014

This channel will be a vlog of my day to day activities. Its main focus will be about my experiences and thoughts about living in a stealth cargo van which I will be building into my home.

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This channel is about My Life Living and Traveling On The Road In My Shuttle Bus. I travel in a 1989 Shuttle Bus named “Shuttle Babe”with my Girl Pup RILEY!

Subscribers: 7,280

Views: 1,474,022

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Looking inside the way inspiring van life and bus life nomads live around Australia. Check out the different ways people live in their bus or van, how they pursue their dreams, and of course, get some inside tips and tricks.

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I am a ‘van dweller in training’ preparing to hit the road full time.

Subscribers: 5,920

Views: 730,969

Videos: 485

Average Views Per Video: 1,508

Joined: Mar 16, 2006

In a nutshell. Us two and our collies. Travels in our self converted campervan, stays in our static caravan in the Peak District or at home.

Subscribers: 5,600

Views: 1,179,612

Videos: 497

Average Views Per Video: 2,374

Joined: Apr 28, 2009

I will be sharing my journey from rock bottom to moving into a mini van and reconnecting with my amazing wife and partnering with her to bring love and life to this world.

Subscribers: 5,510

Views: 1,328,732

Videos: 221

Average Views Per Video: 6,013

Joined: Oct 11, 2006

This channel is about DIY projects, camper vans, solar and off-grid projects.

Subscribers: 5,490

Views: 1,785,649

Videos: 314

Average Views Per Video: 5,687

Joined: Dec 14, 2014

I’m Rob and my dog is called Archie (Airedale Terrier) and I’ve been living full time on the road since 2020. This journey began when I left the UK Armed Forces and retired and now spend the rest of my life travelling with the dog while living full time in our self converted van called Shaky.

Subscribers: 5,450

Views: 429,898

Videos: 245

Average Views Per Video: 1,755

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Former Professional Sports Executives trading our small cubicles for a giant #vanlife adventure around North America.

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We quit our jobs and moved into our converted Ram Promaster to explore the world!

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Joined: Oct 13, 2019

Hi I’m Sue from Lancashire, UK – I’m vlogging solo travels in my converted VW T6.1 Transporter, ‘Vanya’, re-engaging with life after losing my husband suddenly in 2019.

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I’m a full-time VanLife’r and world traveler.

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My wife and I and our dog Flash will be traveling in our 2004 winnebago adventure and will be filming our adventures across the USA.

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Solo female traveler touring the country in her minivan with her dog Charles at her side.

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Videos: 321

Average Views Per Video: 973

Joined: Aug 15, 2011

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Van Life: The Ultimate Guide To Living In A Van In British Columbia

Flashback to August of 2021. The world was in a funk, and it was time for a radical change. My girlfriend and I hatched a plan to sell everything, move into my Toyota Sienna, chase the last bit of Canadian summer through British Columbia's interior, and then start traveling the world (which as I write this on a plane, over a year and a half later, is still an ongoing adventure). There was something romantic about the notion of a fresh start, something inspiring about creating a trip with minimal means, and something unapologetically exciting about taking big risks when the perpetual marching orders were to "stay safe." Vanlife is officially on the rise. Everyday I see vehicular vagabonds pop up on YouTube – using the digital landscape to fuel their adventures. We didn't have a decked-out sprinter van, but we had a lot of heart. Here's how we made it work. 

The Vision And The Van Conversion

The Canadian portion of the Rocky Mountains divide the provinces of Alberta and British Columbia, before heading even further North. The former was our long-time home base, and gets the more rugged and frigid mountain experience. Crossing into BC typically brings milder temperatures, especially as you move Southwest. So while we did linger in Alberta for the first few days, ultimately, as we shifted into September, it was clear that we needed to chase the milder conditions in order to live comfortably. Plus, after so many interprovincial border shut downs, a change of scenery was particularly welcomed. 

I'm no handyman, but I always find a way to make things work. A minivan isn't exactly the sexiest of rides, but its wider back end provided just enough space for two people, and the bare essentials. I folded the back seats down, ripped the middle ones out, got a carpet from Ikea to pad the floor (and make it more homey), popped in an inflatable double mattress from Canadian Tire, picked up a lockable storage trunk and a cooler off a sketchy guy on Kijiji, and somehow, without measuring anything, it all fit (but just barely). Whatever didn't go in the trunk, we hung around the windows (which created some privacy and stealth), and tucked into glove boxes, those little storage spaces in the doors, and wherever else we could fit it on the day. Lastly, Irina peppered in some loving touches, such as a faux-vine plant, a string of battery-powered lights, and a cup-holder succulent. It was a tight squeeze, but given the string of favorable weather, and the recent opening of indoor public spaces, we knew it would mostly just be for sleeping. 

The Camping Options In British Columbia

British Columbia has a blend of provincial and national park campgrounds, privately-owned sites, crown land (which is similar to BLM land in the United States), and roadside rest stops, which have a time limit of eight hours (i.e. a good night's sleep). We utilized all of these, as well as a healthy blend of "stealth camping" – a subgenre of the blossoming vanlife scene that is exactly what it sounds like. Basically, this entailed finding an inconspicuous spot somewhere that didn't have a "No Overnight Parking" sign, lay low, and hope that we didn't get "the knock" at some point in the night. The major advantage of squeezing into my minivan was that it literally just looked like any old vehicle that should be parked on any old road in any old town. So neither the residents nor bylaw officers were wise to us. Score one for the bad guys! 

Each camping option came with a set of trade offs. The rest stops were free, and had bathrooms/garbage bins, but no showers, a bit of road noise, and a relatively tight time limit (which I doubt is ever strictly enforced, but it still keeps you moving). Government parks are well-equipped and beautiful, but expensive (and non-negotiable). Private campgrounds are also well-serviced, crop up in some pretty amazing locations, and because they are independently run, we were able to swindle better prices (or extra firewood) as the off-season loomed. This usually worked if we reserved multiple nights and flashed out best "we're totally broke but loving life" smiles. Crown land is free, but difficult to access (especially in a low-clearance van) and without any ammendities (beyond the occasional fire pit). Stealth camping is free, an exhilarating experience, and the ideal "stick it to the man" approach, but it is also unreliable. The sleep is choppier, and god help you if you have to pee in the middle of the night (we opted not to use "piss jugs" and thus spoil the smidge of romance in the arrangement).

The Daily Routine Of Van Camping

Depending on where we rested our heads for the night, the morning would vary slightly. But generally speaking. it would go a little something like this. We quickly fell into a circadian rhythm with the sun. There wasn't much left to do after dark except crawl into bed and watch a previously downloaded show on a laptop. The early wind down naturally led to us waking up at dawn. The first order of business was always to get coffee and breakfast at some local cafe or diner, and wash up a bit in the bathroom. Irina would usually linger for a few hours, in order to stay on top of her freelance writing tasks, and I would go hit the streets (literally), as a busker. 

Quick sidebar on my backstory. For eleven years I had a corporate sales job. I started right out of University, and quit on March 1st, 2020, in order to pursue my musical passion (among other things). Unfortunately, about ten days later the pandemic hit and live music disappeared for the better part of two years. Not one to let the silly lack of a stage or microphone stop me, I dusted off my street performing skills, (which is not strictly legal in most spots) in order to pick up the slack. Thankfully, most audiences I encountered were grateful to hear someone singing their heart out, were cool about not reporting it, and also generously contributed to the gas fund. I did also have lots of mishaps, not just on this trip, but throughout the years and various countries, but that's a story for another time. 

So after doing our best to eke out a living, we would then sync up, get supplies, and drive onwards to the next town, trailhead, or campground. Once we had an idea of where we would sleep, all that was left to do was explore the area, go for a hike, brave a swim, rustle up some grub, and watch the sunset from a patio or picnic table before crawling into the back of the van. This routine quickly became addicting, and I look back on it fondly. In my opinion, traveling in this fashion is the best way to get to know the real rhythms of a place, while also reaping the freedom of transience. 

My Top 3 Recommended Locations In Western Canada

Having a basic home setup in the back of a minivan allowed Irina and I to go wherever we wanted, and at whatever pace we deemed fit. The sweet spot seemed to involve regularly shifting locations, but never going too far in a day. This meant we could absorb a broad area by taking in multiple perspectives, and feel like we were accomplishing something by "making miles." Often, we would visit multiple lake communities, or a cluster of mountain towns before pressing on to a completely new spot. Since pictures speak a thousand words, here is a little highlight reel of choice spots. 

Alberta Rocky Mountain Towns

Kootenay Lake Towns

The Western Shore Of Okanagan Lake

Once the cooler October air officially settled in, we briefly returned to Calgary, sold the van, said goodbye to our friends and family, and then flew to Guatemala – the first of many new countries we would explore (and still are) over the next two years. If you would like to follow along with our travels, please explore the links below and stay tuned for more adventures. 

The Globetrotting Begins:

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Live differently. live boldly., citroen campervan interior with beach shack vibes, sleeps 3, shower included [van tour].

Riding the crest of camper creativity, we love sharing unique camper conversions with you. We hope this detailed interior tour of ‘Isabella’ – a bespoke beach-inspired van build – will give you some ideas and inspire you to dip a toe into vanlife! Recently, we wrote about this rustic Citroen Relay conversion from the team…

Family Campervan – Rustic Citroen Relay L3H3 Conversion [VAN TOUR]

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Mercedes Sprinter MWB Adventure Van [VAN TOUR]

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Revealing the True Cost: How Much Does a Campervan Conversion Cost (UK)?

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The Lion – Showstopping MAN TGE Campervan Conversion (4×4)

We can’t help but wonder whether the brief for this Man TGE campervan conversion was ‘exclusive catered lodge in the Swiss Alps, darling. But keep it stealth, okay? We don’t let just anyone in’. Because that’s the vibe we get.  This is the hidden ‘speakeasy’ of vans. Those in the know will recognise that, beneath…

GUIDE: How to Avoid Scams when Buying a Campervan or Motorhome [2024]

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The Isles – Luxury 4×4 Mercedes Sprinter Camper Conversion

Introducing ‘The Isles’ – a luxury 4×4 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter by Harper’s Vans & Recreation. ‘Ready for anything’ was the brief that inspired this beast of a conversion. The result? A 4×4 campervan that completely redefines overlanding.  From the robust exterior to the rich dark interior, ‘The Isles’ sets new standards in overland exploration. But there’s even more…

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Sierra – LWB VW Crafter Campervan Conversion with Longitudinal Bed

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Rustic Revival: DAF Lorry Conversion Tour

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Scandi-style VW T6 Transporter Campervan Conversion (LWB)

Meet the snappily named ‘SCNDVN 023’ – the latest build to leave the Scandivans workshop in Manchester. While the name may sound all about ‘function’, with a sleek Scandi aesthetic, this build scores high in form, too. This exquisite conversion of a long wheelbase VW T6 Transporter embodies the epitome of Scandinavian design – with…

Camperhan – Converted VW Crafter Campervan (Off-grid, MWB)

Introducing ‘Camperhan’: The medium wheelbase VW Crafter campervan conversion that proves size isn’t everything, when it comes to designing the ultimate family van! Despite being slightly shorter than its sibling, the LWB VW Crafter camper, Camperhan shows that you can still pack all the family into a more compact space.  With room to sleep and…

Manny – The LWB VW Crafter Campervan (Bespoke Conversion)

Meet Manny, the long wheelbase VW Crafter campervan where cosy cabin vibes blend seamlessly with an industrial edge. His wood-clad walls are a classic vanlife favourite, but that’s kind of where the ‘typical’ ends. With industrial metal finishes adorned with hints of copper, brass, and steel, a bespoke stylised map mural, and an attention-grabbing stable…

How Much Does Van Life Cost?

Living full-time in a van has become a popular alternative to houselife. Vanlife is adventurous, freeing, and a good way to save money… or is it? There are significant costs associated with living in a van on a monthly basis. From fuel and insurance to maintenance and parking fees, the cost of living in a van…

33 UK Van Life Festivals in 2024: Discover Camper Culture – Map Included!

Imagine waking up to the festival vibe right at your doorstep, with a neighbourhood of like-minded folks, and epic van conversion inspo… That’s the beauty of van life festivals in the UK. If you bring your own van it’s a super-luxe escape from traditional camping, but even if you camp in a tent, or come just on…

LUXURY VAN TOUR – our dream off-grid van

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Over the past two years, we’ve meticulously crafted our dream camper van, drawing inspiration from both our loyal YouTube community and nearly five years of full-time travel in our trusty old Sprinter. Today, we proudly present our completed Ford Transit cargo van conversion, and this blog post offers a comprehensive overview of our entire journey.

Take Your Camper Van to New Heights: Van Compass Lift Kit and All-Terrain Tires Installation

Ready to take your camper van conversion to the next level? Our tutorial on “Van Compass STAGE 4 TOPO 2.0 Lift Kit and Bigger All-Terrain Tires Installation” is here to guide you through the process. Learn how to boost your van’s off-road capabilities, enhance its clearance, and improve traction, opening up a world of adventurous possibilities. Whether you’re tackling tough terrain or seeking new horizons, this video will equip you with the knowledge and skills to elevate your van life experience.

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Off-Road Ready: Installing a Brush Guard on Your Camper Van Conversion

Enhance your van’s safety and style with our “Camper Van Brush Guard Installation” tutorial. This video will walk you through the process of fortifying your van’s front end, providing protection against brush, debris, and minor impacts. Whether you’re heading off-road or simply looking to boost your van’s aesthetics, our guide ensures you can complete this essential upgrade with confidence.

Seeing the Road Ahead: Upgrading Fog and Driving Lights on Your Conversion

Enhance your camper van’s safety and style with our comprehensive tutorial on upgrading fog and driving lights. This video will guide you through the process of selecting and installing brighter, more efficient lighting options for improved visibility on the road. Whether you’re driving through adverse weather conditions or simply looking to enhance your van’s appearance, our guide equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary to complete this essential upgrade

We Added Scene Lights for Campsite Illumination:

Illuminate your camper van conversion with our expert guide on “Installing and Wiring Scene Lights.” Discover the art of enhancing your van’s exterior with the right lighting, creating an ambiance that suits your lifestyle and preferences. From installation tips to the intricacies of wiring relays, this tutorial offers valuable insights for both beginners and seasoned van lifers, helping you make your van life experiences even brighter.

Window to Adventure: A Step-by-Step Guide to Arctic Tern Window Installation

Unlock the potential of your camper van conversion by learning how to install Arctic Tern windows with our comprehensive guide. These windows offer stunning views and ample ventilation, transforming your van into a cozy and well-illuminated space. Our tutorial covers everything from window selection to the actual installation process, empowering you to create a van that’s perfect for your adventures.

Bringing Bikes on the Road: Mountain Bike Mounts Installation Guide

Get ready to hit the trails and take your mountain biking adventures on the road with our “ Mountain Bike Mount Installation” tutorial. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the process of installing bike mounts in your camper van conversion, providing a secure and space-efficient solution for transporting your bikes. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just getting started, this video will equip you with the knowledge and skills to bring your passion for biking into your van life.

Water on the Road: A Step-by-Step Guide to Plumbing in Your Van Conversion

Ready to hit the road with a fully functional plumbing system in your camper van conversion? Our “Building a Plumbing System” video is your roadmap to water freedom. Discover how to create a hygienic and comfortable environment for your van life adventures, with expert guidance on choosing the right components, layout, and installation. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a novice, this tutorial will help you build the perfect water system for your on-the-go lifestyle.

Wired for Van Life: A Step-by-Step Guide to Electrical Systems in Your Van Conversion

Ready to harness the power of electricity in your camper van conversion? Our “Building an Electrical System” tutorial is your roadmap to van life electrification. Learn how to design and construct a customized electrical system, from solar panels to outlets and lighting. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or new to van life, this video offers the guidance you need to create a versatile and self-sufficient electrical system for your on-the-go lifestyle.

Van Conversion Essentials: A Guide to Insulating Your Camper Van’s Windows

Stay warm and maintain your privacy while on the road with nsulated Window Coverings for camper van conversions. You can sew coverings yourself but we decided it would be faster, easier, and not much more expensive to simply buy pre-made covers that simply attach with magnets.

Van Conversion Essentials: A Guide to Bug-Proofing Your Camper Van

Protect your home on wheels and keep pesky bugs outside with our comprehensive “Bug Net Installation” video for camper van conversions. We’ll guide you through the entire process, from selecting the right materials to installing the bug nets. Whether you’re an experienced traveler or embarking on your first van conversion project, this tutorial offers valuable insights to ensure your van life adventures are insect-free and comfortable.

Van Life Off the Grid: Constructing a Solar Panel Roof Rack Step by Step

Ready to charge your way to adventure with solar power? Our “ Solar Panel Roof Rack Installation” tutorial is your gateway to energy independence in your camper van conversion. Learn how to design and construct a custom roof rack to accommodate your solar panels , ensuring you can hit the road with confidence. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or new to van life, this video provides the guidance you need to harness the sun’s energy and power your van life journey.

We covered every square inch of our transit camper van roof with solar panels , but to do so… we had to use mismatched sizes of panels and this video will show you how we installed them and the math behind how it works.

Stay Connected Anywhere: Installing a WeBoost Cell Phone Signal Booster in Your Camper Van Conversion

Maintain strong cellular connectivity and stay in touch wherever your camper van adventures take you with our “ WeBoost Cell Phone Signal Booster Installation” tutorial. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the process of selecting, mounting, and optimizing a WeBoost signal booster to enhance your van’s cell signal. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to van life, this video equips you with the knowledge and skills to ensure you’re always connected on the road.

Maximize Your Storage: Rear Door Cargo Box Installation for Camper Vans

Unlock extra storage space and elevate your camper van adventures by learning how to install a rear door cargo box with our “Rear Door Cargo Box Installation” tutorial. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the process of selecting, mounting, and optimizing a cargo box to carry all your gear and equipment. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to van life, this video equips you with the knowledge and skills to ensure you can pack more and explore more on the road.

Shore Power Made Easy: A Step-by-Step Guide to 30A Inlet Installation

Ready to enhance your van’s electrical capabilities and enjoy the convenience of shore power in your camper van? Our “Installing a 30A Shore Power Inlet ” tutorial is your gateway to reliable and on-the-road electricity. Learn how to mount and wire a 30A shore power inlet that ensures you’re always connected and can power up your van life experience for times you aren’t off the grid.

Bring the Sun Closer: A Step-by-Step Guide to Electrical Port Installation for Ground Deploy Solar Panels

Experience the convenience of ground deploy solar panels in your camper van conversion by learning how to install an electrical port with our “Electrical Port Installation for Ground Deploy Solar Panels ” tutorial. In this step-by-step guide, we simplify the process of selecting, mounting, and wiring an electrical port that enables you to harness solar energy more effectively.

Van Life Seating Upgrade: How to Install Swivel Seats in Your Camper Van

Experience the ultimate in seating versatility with swivel seats in your camper van conversion. Our “Seat Swivel Installation” video provides a comprehensive walkthrough of the process, from selecting the right swivels to securely mounting them. If you are simply looking to maximize your van’s interior space, this tutorial offers valuable insights to keep you comfortable during your van life adventures.

Camera-Ready Van: A Step-by-Step Guide to Modular Storage Cabinet Construction

This video will teach you how to build a camera storage cabinet for a DIY camper van conversion with one drawer, one shelf, a built-in USB charging block, a 120V outlet, and under cabinet lighting . We use a lot of camera gear and wanted the option to bring all of our gear on the road when we take the van on trips. We wanted to make sure we could charge all of our small lights, camera batteries , gimbal, and mics. With this in mind, we made sure to make an organized charging station with a USB hub inside one of the drawers to minimize the mess of wires. Instead of building multiple drawers, we decided to build a drawer with two shelves in our camper van. These shelves are perfect for sliding our packing cubes in and out, and we used a bungee cord to prevent anything from sliding out while driving the van. This camera storage cabinet build was the perfect solution for all our gear and can be modified for other uses down the line.

DIY Camper Kitchen: Comprehensive Tutorial for Your Van Conversion

This video will teach you how to build a ‘kitchen’ cabinet for a DIY camper van conversion with a sink, an induction stove top, and drawers for storage. In this van kitchen build, we were able to construct the cabinets outside of the van, install the sink, stove top, and fridge, all on our workbench before moving the entire DIY campervan kitchen into place. We secured our kitchen cabinet to the van using the L-track on the walls and on the floors. We are so happy with how this kitchen build turned out and even found some creative solutions for extra storage around our sink drain!

Going Off the Grid: Building a Modular Composting Toilet Cabinet Module for Your Camper Van

Maximize your van life sustainability with a custom-built modular composting toilet cabinet module in your camper van conversion. Our “ Composting Toilet Cabinet Module Construction” video provides a comprehensive walkthrough of the process, from designing the cabinet to constructing and installing it. Whether you’re an eco-enthusiast or looking for responsible waste solutions, this tutorial offers valuable insights to keep your van life eco-friendly and self-sufficient.

Maximizing Space: Camper Van Upper Cabinet Construction

In this comprehensive video tutorial, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of building upper cabinets for your camper van conversion. Whether you’re embarking on your first van life adventure or looking to upgrade your current setup, this guide will help you maximize storage space and optimize your camper’s interior. Learn how to craft custom cabinets, select the right materials, and install them securely in your van. Elevate your camper van conversion project with our expert tips and techniques for creating functional and stylish upper cabinets that perfectly suit your needs:

DIY Camper Van Bed Frame using Unistrut: Complete How-To

This instructional video provides a detailed guide on how to build a camper van bed using Unistrut, a versatile and robust material choice for your van conversion project.

Gain valuable insights and expert guidance on crafting a comfortable and space-efficient sleeping platform that perfectly suits your needs. This comprehensive tutorial will help you design and construct a custom Unistrut bed frame, ensuring that you can rest easy and elevate your van life experience to a whole new level:

Van Conversion Essentials: Step-by-Step 3M Thinsulate Insulation Installation

Unlock the secrets to a well-insulated and cozy camper van with our in-depth tutorial on “3M Thinsulate Insulation Installation.” This video covers the essential steps and techniques to properly install this premium insulation material. Whether you’re a seasoned van lifer or embarking on your first conversion project, our guide will empower you to create a space that’s comfortable, energy-efficient, and ready for your next adventure.

Creating a Versatile Interior: L-Track Wall Installation for Your Van Conversion

Elevate your camper van’s functionality and design with our “L-Track Wall Installation Guide.” This video tutorial covers the essentials of creating a flexible interior using L-Track strips. With a clear breakdown of the installation process, you’ll gain the knowledge and confidence to create a van that’s not just a means of transportation but a comfortable and customizable living space for all your adventures.

Flooring and L-Track Perfection: A Comprehensive Camper Van Conversion Guide

Are you ready to take your van conversion project to the next level? Our “Insulated Flooring and L-Track Installation Tutorial” is here to guide you through the process. Learn how to insulate your van’s floor for maximum comfort and energy efficiency, while also creating a versatile interior using L-Track strips. Whether you’re embarking on your first build or looking to enhance your current setup, this video will provide the knowledge and skills you need to succeed.

The EXPLORIST.life shop has everything you need for  your DIY camper electrical upgrade, retrofit, or complete system.

Subscribe to the EXPLORIST.life weekly newsletter for updates, events, new tutorials & more oppourtunities.

Nate Yarbrough

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“The Lute is Eternal” proclaims the text that concludes the ten-minute video to Jozef van Wissem’s recent single, “The Call of the Deathbird.” The Dutch composer’s gruff vocals appear throughout the short film, shot in the vast Soviet mausoleum outside Warsaw, but his singing (and the relative angelic voice of Hillary Woods) directs the listener back to the intricate, meditative sounds of his main ax. The strings of his Renaissance-vintage instrument stand in for the silenced voices of all the people who died in the city during World War II, as well as the more than 20,000 World War II soldiers buried in the mausoleum. Van Wissem lived in Warsaw during COVID lockdown, and it’s easy to connect the empty spaces depicted in the video to the eerie quiet of the pandemic’s early days. The lute may be eternal, but it’s not the only instrument in van Wissem’s music. On The Night Dwells in the Day, the first of two albums he’s released this year, he bolsters the lute’s delicate progress through the palindromic melodic structures of his compositions using sequenced beats, subliminal electronic drones, and stern intonations. The second album is the soundtrack to Un Prince , a 2023 film by Pierre Creton set in Normandy that tells a quiet tale of horticulture and queer, cross-generational love. On that record, layers of trebly lute figures impart a sense of beatitude that defies the dour gloom that creeps in when van Wissem lays a fuzz-toned 12-string electric guitar over a funereal rock beat. In concert, van Wissem strips things back to his lute, his voice, and some prerecorded backing tracks. He headlines this concert, his first Chicago appearance in more than four years; two local acts, electronic musician Lula Asplund and splendid guitar-synth duo BCMC , open the show.

Jozef van Wissem BCMC and Lula Asplund open. Thu 5/2, 9 PM, Empty Bottle , 1035 N. Western, $15, 21+

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