At a time when the world is facing various challenges, living a van life is becoming one of the safest and most convenient ways for students to explore the world. The pandemic has forced us to rethink the ways and types of living, and now van life is becoming especially attractive for students.

Of course, you should understand that there are also disadvantages to living in a van if you are a student. For example, you may not have enough time to do your homework if you are on the road. In such cases, you can turn to an essay writing service that will help you with any kind of assignment. They employ professional writers who have knowledge in various disciplines.

Pros and Cons of Living the Van Life

Pro #1:

When you go on vacation, you have a feeling that "I will rest for 7 days and then go home". When you live in a van, you travel in your own home and, as a rule, are in no hurry; the meter is not ticking – a pleasant feeling. It is especially pleasant for students who are constantly stressed due to their studies.

Con:

Sometimes you want a real vacation, just in an "all inclusive" hotel or even just go somewhere far from home, sleep in a separate room, but you have already arrived with your bed and all your belongings and even with your house, therefore, it seems there is no point to book a room in the hotel.

Pro #2:

You can live in places where there are no hotels. "You can live in a tent," you might object, if you are a fan of hiking and being at one with nature. But, unfortunately, not everyone is capable of such feats, but in a van – if it is well thought out and constructed – you will sleep well in your own bed, wash in your own shower with your favorite shampoo, and eat from a beautiful plate. And all this on a picturesque forest edge or on the seashore.

Con:

It is not always possible to park where you want. Sometimes you have to stand at a gas station or in another area rich not in flora and fauna, but in concrete.

Pro #3:

If your van is well "pumped up," you will almost always have everything you need for life with little dependence on external sources. That is, thanks to solar panels, you will have free electricity, and you can also collect water for free in many places. And this is – again – freedom and, in addition, big savings. The rise in rental prices sometimes is simply indecent. Therefore, there is a noticeable saving.

Con:

To save like this, of course, you will first have to spend a decent amount on the energy system. Not every ready-made van will suit you. And if you decide to make a custom one, be prepared for the lion's share of the budget. In addition, do not forget that you need to pay taxes and insurance for the car. In addition, you will have to learn to use resources carefully: stand under the shower not for 55, but for 3.5 minutes. Unless, of course, you want to go and fill the water tank every couple of days.

Stages of Organizing a Comfortable Van Life

Choosing a van

It’s good if you already have one. Otherwise, you’ll have to rent or buy a van. The car rental market is currently developed, so you can easily find a suitable vehicle. Vans can also be rented, purchased from local manufacturers, or bought second-hand. Make sure that the package includes everything you need (kitchen, sleeping area, shower, toilet).

Tip: Learn the features of driving a van (there’s nothing complicated about it, but you need to know the nuances).

Planning a route

• Choose a destination and plan a passable route that fits your budget. Consider the road surface, travel time, and stops. Give preference to a straight road if speed is a priority; otherwise, pay attention to picturesque and winding roads.

• Consider the presence of populated areas along the route. The number of gas stations, cafes, Internet, and communication availability depend on this. If the area is sparsely populated, be sure to have a kitchen in the van to provide yourself with hot food, and download apps with offline maps if there is no Internet on the way.

• Study the route. Find out in advance where you can refuel, spend the night, refill water supplies, empty the toilet, buy food, and charge batteries.

• Book campsites in advance. If possible.

• Be prepared for changes. Force majeure can occur in any situation.

Tip: Write down all the information in notes or add it to your calendar so that the route and reservations are on your phone.

Checking the technical condition of the van and equipment

• Make sure that the van has everything you need for a comfortable stay: bedding, cooking and serving utensils, kitchen equipment, etc.

• Check the technical condition of the car and equipment (kitchen equipment, shower, toilet). Everything should work and be securely fastened.

Tip: Perform vehicle maintenance. Check the brakes, brake lights, turn signals, lights, tire pressure, their integrity, fuel, and chassis systems.

Collecting and packing things

• Collect all the necessary things, including personal items, phones, clothes, chargers, food, medicine, glasses, lenses, and other important items, as well as everything you need for studying.

• Take tools for repairing the van. These can be screwdrivers, flashlights, wrenches, a compressor, etc. Don't forget a tow rope, wheel chocks, and a fire extinguisher.

• Take pet supplies (food, bowls, leash, toilet accessories) if you have a four-legged friend.

• Make sure there's enough storage space in the van, and pack things so they don't block your view or interfere with movement.

Tip: Don't forget to take your van documents and identification documents for all people who will share van life with you. And to avoid overloading, don't take unnecessary things. Only the necessary ones.

Safety

Prepare for emergencies. Have the necessary equipment for emergencies (spare tire, first aid kit, compressor, etc.). Also, monitor road conditions and follow safety rules.

Supplies

• Prepare food in advance or plan stops for shopping. Also, take care of drinking water. Think about how many breakfasts, lunches, and dinners will be cooked and how many will be eaten outside the campsite.

• If you are taking pets with you, take extra food and toilet supplies for them.

• You may also require fuel, gas, technical water, chemical reagents for a bio-toilet, and a windshield washer. Ensure their availability and think about places where you will replenish supplies.

Tip: Take a water purifier to collect water from springs.

Entertainment

Take games, books, and tablets on the road. Prepare a playlist with music, podcasts, and audiobooks. A good option will be to find audiobooks that will be helpful for your education. Thus, while driving, you can study simultaneously. 

Checking laws and regulations

Learn about the traffic rules and regulations in the states you are going to visit.

Navigator and maps

Take a smartphone, maps, or a GPS device with you so you don’t get lost. Familiarize yourself with information about the places you want to visit (including visiting times and days).

Camping rules

Respect nature and follow the camping rules in the places you are staying. Don’t litter; clean up after yourself.

Don’t forget to take snacks and water with you when you leave. Wet and dry wipes, a thermos or thermos mugs with hot drinks, and garbage bags are also used. All this will brighten up your van life.

Living in a van is a great way to spend time if you are a student and get to know new places. These tips and steps will help make your life more enjoyable and cozy.

A Real Story of Jenna Aldus and Colin Dierker

When Jenna Aldus and Colin Dierker learned that their university had moved classes online due to the pandemic, they decided to take full advantage of their newfound freedom. Both students studied and lived on the road in their new home on wheels, a refurbished 1975 Chevy van they named Nelly.

According to Jenna, the conversion and renovation of the van only took about 40 days, thanks to the help and support of friends and family (they even threw the couple a going-away party with cake).

When remodeling, the couple tried to preserve much of the camper’s original design and iconic 1970s vibe with bright, fun elements. The converted camper measures nearly 70 square feet, and almost all of the furniture was sourced from local thrift stores. An electric sink pump supplies water, and a solar-powered shower tank makes outdoor bathing more comfortable. Inside, the camper is filled with live plants that help naturally purify the air.

The travelers say they have learned some useful van life lessons in about a month of being on the road. For example, they now make sure to use the restroom whenever possible and stock up on essentials before leaving a major city. They also say they have learned new tricks, such as free refills of fresh water tanks at stations found at most national park campgrounds.

Much of the time was spent making sure Nelly was mechanically and technically sound and ready for life on the road.