What Is a Van Life Build?
Van life is a lifestyle movement focused on tiny living, minimalism, and connecting with nature. It can be a form of homelessness, or simply a new life philosophy for travelers and adventurers. The van life movement has become incredibly popular, with people selling their homes in exchange for a van, then living and traveling in a very small space. In most cases, van life is an expression of freedom and a way to live the life they always wanted.
Those who are living the van life, often take it upon themselves to build their own homes on wheels. This is referred to as a van life build. Many people opt for custom builds within their vans, so that they can have all the amenities they need in a much more condensed space than a traditional living quarters.
Are There Alternatives to a Van for A Van Life Build?
The short answer is yes! You don't need a van to live the van life. In fact, people have taken a range of vehicles and made them their own homes on wheels. Here are some of the most popular alternatives for a van life build:
RVs and Campervans
For those who are short on time or have a bigger budget, an RV or campervan might be the way to go. These vehicles are already set up for living and allow you to customize them to your needs. They have all the amenities you need in a small, compact space, and they come equipped with built-in appliances and sanitation. Depending on your needs, you can choose from a wide range of RVs, campervans, and travel trailers.
Tiny Homes
Tiny homes come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but many people choose to build their own tiny homes on a trailer, so that they can be easily moved. While tiny homes are much bigger than vans, they still offer a good option for those who want to live on the go. They come with bathroom and electrical amenities, as well as kitchen appliances such as a stove, oven, and fridge, so you can truly make your tiny home your own.
Truck Campers
Truck campers are another great option for those trying to live the van life. They provide a good amount of space for two people, while also being able to reinforce your vehicle and protect it from the elements. They can be installed directly on your pick-up truck, so you don't need to buy an additional vehicle or build something from scratch. They are also relatively easy to install, meaning you can be ready to hit the road in no time!
Camper Shells
If you have a pickup truck, another option is to go with a camper shell. This type of setup uses a hard shell to cover the bed of your truck, providing a separate living space in which you can sleep, cook, and rest. It's not as comfortable as a van, but you will still get the benefits of being able to travel while having a kitchen and a comfortable place to sleep.
Tent Campers
Tent campers or pop-up campers are a great option for those who are just starting out in van life. These campers mix the comfort of living in a van with the convenience of being able to take the camper with you wherever you go. They are lightweight, and can be pulled behind your car or truck, meaning you don't need a special vehicle to make them work. Just set it up and you can start living the van life life right away.
Conclusion
No matter what type of vehicle you have, it is possible to live the van life. Whether you choose a van, an RV, or something else, you can make your dream of living on the road a reality. Just make sure to do research on each option before committing, so that you make the right decision for your lifestyle.