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Home » Budget Travel » How to Live in a Van and Travel: Freedom, Vanlife, and the 21st Century Nomad

How to Live in a Van and Travel: Freedom, Vanlife, and the 21st Century Nomad

Excuse me, sir, ma’am, do you have a second to talk about freedom?

That’s why we travel, right? Sure, maybe it starts as an escape. Maybe your ex trashed you so you ran away from all those delicious problems (don’t feel bad; it’s a common story).

Maybe the looming threat of your tertiary education commitments was rearing its ugly head so you decided to delay.

Maybe you wanted to  ‘find yourself’ .

Whatever your reasons, the outcome was the same. You left… And then you caught the bug.

Now that I know how to be free, how can I choose to put myself back in the cage?

Excuse me, sir, ma’am do you have a second to talk about van life?

There’s something pure about van travel. You’ll have to peel back the layers first: the trashy Instagram hashtags. The ‘polyamorous’ douchebags competing for level-10 gipsy status to sleep with cute hippy chicks at psytrance festivals.

Peel that shit back first and what do you find? Freedom: a sincere desire to simply live freely. Travelling in a van, or any form of motorhome for that matter, is not a lifestyle: it’s an answer.

Less is more.

So let’s talk about that. Let’s talk about why you should live AND how to travel in a van.

Let’s talks about the ins and outs of travelling in a motorhome: a beginner’s tips and hacks guide for campervan travel. And let’s talk about travelling the world in a campervan: the best countries to go and how to acquire your new roots-less home.

I’m talking my favourite topic how to travel in a van.

Let’s go

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Vanlife: Let’s Paint a Picture of the Van Travel Lifestyle

How to live in a van and travel, the best countries for rv and campervan travel, vanlife tips 101: your beginner’s rv and campervan travel guide, freedom, vanlife and the 21st century nomad.

Right, so that was soppy – sorry, folks! Here’s the deal: it’s a house on wheels. Let me reiterate that for you.

It’s a house on wheels.

Yeah sure, it may not be a very big house. But, look, if your biggest concern is not being able to take much stuff, then, mate… the traveller lifestyle might not be for you.

Let’s call it nomadic van living (just to separate it from actual nomadic living in which if you didn’t move, then winter came and you died). Living out of a van means living out of a home with wheels. Think about that for a sec.

If you run out of milk, you don’t have to leave the house to buy milk. You take the house WITH YOU to buy milk.

That’s fucking sick.

There’s a new level of freedom that comes from travelling the country in an RV , campervan, or even one of the cars with the fold-out tents on the roof (they’re awesome; I’ve seen JUCY rentals in New Zealand and Australia do them). Do you know what a common thought for me is while staring out the window on a bus ride? “That’s a nice mountain; I wish I could go climb it.” 

Ta-dah! Traveller vans to the rescue.

And, to be a little bit real for a second, I do think it’s an answer. We’re in a time where we are – possibly, hopefully, maybe – starting to look at the traditional model of ‘How to Adult – 101’ and saying…

Maybe, there’s another way. Maybe we don’t need all the things we thought we did.

I’d say it’s an experiment. You travel in a van, living in a motorhome, and you have an adventure. One way or another, you come away with a new perspective. And, if you’re built for it, maybe you come away with a whole new model for life.

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Why Travel and Live in a Van or RV

Let’s talk specifics, not quasi-philosophical ramblings. What are the benefits of travelling in a van or RV?

I mean, there’s the ease of buying groceries, obviously, but there’s more to motorhome travel than just that:

• There’s the obvious financial benefit. Your mileage (hah) will vary depending on your style. A family of four living and travelling in a full-power RV and staying at powered holiday parks are going to have a very different cost-footprint than two dirtbags travelling in a van and staying in the driveway of someone called Possum Joe. But, you can’t say rolling your transport and accommodation costs into one while cooking for yourself doesn’t help!
• You can go anywhere! Unless the road ends in which case you get out and walk. Campervan travel changes the landscape of your adventure, but I’ll save that for when I talk about the best countries to campervan in further down.
• You can pick up hitchhikers! Ahh, thank you, much appreciated! My people thank you in advance.
• There is, of course, the art of minimalism. How low you go is up to you: packing for living in an RV vs. a van vs. a hatchback Prius all offer different lifestyles. But it’s a middle-point between having what fits in your house and having what fits on your back.
• It offers freedom of movement. That’s why I call it nomadic van living. It’s like the next evolution up from nomadic horse living on the tech-tree-of-life. Stay, go, settle, cross the country; it’s all your choice. The only difference is that motorhomes break down. But, then, horses die…
• And, of course, it allows you to shift to a more nomadic lifestyle . At a certain point, travelling in a van becomes synonymous with living in a van…

Living in a Van: From Part-Time to Full-Time

This is what I’m talking about: what starts as toes dipped in the water of motorhome travel turns into the full immersion of motorhome living. You start off travelling in an RV or campervan around Australia or New Zealand and suddenly you’re reexamining your whole model of life. Suddenly, living out of a van doesn’t seem like such an alien concept.

You start looking at your life. Maybe I don’t need so many possessions. Maybe I don’t need the weekly depression of rent day.

Suddenly, yes, van life is worth it.

Your career aspirations change; you’ve realised just how many jobs can be done while travelling and living in a campervan. How much freedom is open to you when your cost of living has drastically reduced and your office can be any old breathtaking view.

And, suddenly, you’ve become a digital nomad .

Now, a deep-dive into the digital nomad lifestyle is a whole other can of worms and it’s not really my point either. My point is simply that these things tend to go way further and way deeper than we can often imagine. And that many people have created a sustainable (and fulfilling) life model around living in a van or RV full-time and earning money as they travel.

But that’s long term! Don’t get ahead of yourself, buddy. The digital nomad path changes your travel game , so take your time! Patience is good!

First, you need to get out there and experiment with motorhome travel! You need to see if it’s your holy grail. You need to dip your toes in and that means choosing and acquiring your traveller van.

Want to save money on accommodation?

We got you. For reals.

Ok, so I’ve convinced you, yeah? On the awesomeness of van life? Not pressured, mind you; you’re still in control here. I don’t want to talk you into doing anything you don’t want to do…

But, you’re ready: ready for the adventure of travelling the world in a campervan – the full-time RV lifestyle! You’re ready to start thinking about buying your first campervan.

Whoa, Nelly! Slow down there, sexy-legs! I know you’re excited but even buying the cheapest of campervans is a big and expensive commitment for a lifestyle you don’t know if you’re ready for yet. Jumping in feet-first is commendable but jumping in head-first into an unknown body of water is just bloody stupid!

Let’s start small with finding the right van to travel in so you can decide if van life is worth it for you. Then, if it’s everything you’ve dreamed of (psst, it will be) , you can make the shift to living in a campervan permanently.

So, step 1: finding the right type of motorhome for you. I stress the word motorhome because, as you may have noticed, you have a wide range of options and the different terms get thrown around somewhat interchangeably.

Types of Motorhomes

Think of choosing your motorhome like choosing a travel buddy . If you choose well, the vibe is good and you’ll have a long grand adventure together with lifelong cherished memories. But choose poorly and you’ll end up ditching them on the side of the road and hitchhiking in the opposite direction.

Choosing a Van for Travel: How to Find the Best Motorhome for You

Well, what are your needs? What are your likes and dislikes? How good are you at reversing?

These are the important questions you must ask yourself! (Especially that last one.) The number one tip for van living is that it’s gotta feel like home.

• Travel camper trailers, for a start, have no appeal to me. Lugging a trailer around everywhere in my journeys is unwieldy. But for someone who doesn’t want to make a full-time lifestyle commitment to RV or campervan travel, a camper trailer means you get to still have a car and a home and you can just park the thing in your yard when you’re not off adventuring.
• A converted travel van is the DIY option for the DIY mindset. Seriously, I’ve watched friends go to town on their DIY van conversion and it’s a marvel to behold – a power tool in one hand and WikiHow in the other. If full-time van life is something you ultimately commit to, I feel this the best option because you’re in control; who needs a loving committed relationship and a beautiful family to raise when you have a van! Backpackers in Australia and New Zealand often invest in buying a cheap van at the beginning of a year-long work visa, but for shorter trips, budget campervan hire tends to be a much smarter route.
• Class C Motorhomes (RVs) provide more luxury; let’s call it the family meal deal. RV travel offers more creature comforts at the cost of higher living expenses making it the top choice with families and grey nomads. But, if your travelling with a big group or just have a soft spot for the luxury road trip experience, an RV rental might just be right up your alley.
• Class B Motorhomes (campervans) are the bang-on choice for travellers fresh to the van travel game. Not too big; not too small: just right (just like a certain narcissistic little blonde girl’s porridge). For someone looking to dip their toes into van camping and see if this whole vanlife thing stacks up to the hype, this is the sweet spot!
• Class A Motorhome (monstrosities) are reserved for when you’re 70-years-old, greying, and have nothing but time, disposable income, and a loving life partner you want to bang all over the continent.

But, that leaves one last question: how do you acquire your new transient home?

Rent or Buy – Travel Van Rental: The Advantages of Campervan Hire

Ok, so let’s level with each other: buying a motorhome is expensive! The outright cost is enough to make any broke backpacker curl into the foetal position on the floor and that’s before you add in the insurance and registration costs plus the rising fuel prices in an ever-increasingly unstable global community. 

You’d be better of buying a station wagon and crashing at your mum’s house on laundry/shower day, though, I feel that sorta defeats the purpose of the fully independent, ‘fuck the man’ nomadic van-living lifestyle.

Here’s van living tip number two: don’t buy a motorhome until you know that it’s right for you. I’m talking about using campervan hire as your jumping-off point.

There are a lot of ways to travel a country, but I’d imagine we all have a soft spot for having our own vehicle. And, truthfully, a campervan is simply a better way to travel some countries (looking at you, New Zealand) .

Sometimes, public transport sucks; sometimes we want to go far out. And, sometimes, we don’t want to pay 50 bucks for what amounts to 12-hour bag storage and mattress rental (with complimentary white bread for breakfast).

The Great Australian Road Trip is a dream journey of many travellers I meet (I’m not sure why; I don’t think you realise how boring our roads are – long, straight, and filled with dead things). Plus, road trips are SICK! Talking shit with your mates, good tunes, smoking – ahem – “ciggies” at isolated lookouts (wink-wink): road trips are the best!

It doesn’t mean that one day you won’t have the holy grail converted traveller van, but the best way to start that big journey is with a little step. Hire a motorhome, have an adventure in any of the best countries to campervan in, and once you know how to actually live in a van and travel, you’ll know if the vanlife is right for you.

If you’re after my recommendation, for New Zealand and Australia road trips, JUCY rentals are the best. These iconic whips are the perfect home on the road to explore the roads of down under.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

You’re going to notice a common theme with most of the countries on this van travel bucket list: they’re costly to travel with plenty of ground to cover.  

That’s why by choosing to travel in a cheap van or RV rental, you’re going to please the tight-fisted pantheon deities of Backpakistan. Now, don’t misunderstand – you’re not going to cut your travel expenses in Europe down to the level of Southeast Asia. But taking all our usual tricks-of-the-trade backpacker secrets and applying them while living out of a van certainly helps.

The other recurring theme? They have wicked roads to drive on! Picturesque and long and fast (and sometimes windy too).

You’re still on an adventure. Spend some money, live a little! You know that 2000-year-old tree in the middle of buttfuck-nowhere… you have a house with wheels now! Go see it!

Again, you’re driving a campervan. You’re in control.

We are freedom.

Australia RV and Campervan Travel: Whole Lotta Nothin’

Ok, so there is actually a lot to see in Australia. From travelling Australia’s east coast – tropics, beaches, and seagulls – to the rugged solitude of the west, it’s fair to say that you’ll find something you vibe with amongst Australia’s massive scope.

And if you get down to Tassie, that shit will blow your mind right open. Seriously – backpacking in Tasmania is an experience simply built for van travel.

Only, Australia is big. And the roads are really long and really straight (and really empty). Notice how you never meet anyone who says they circumnavigated Australia twice?

Australia is so big, and there’s such a campervan culture Down Under with backpackers and locals, that vans are being bought, sold, and traded for weed all the time; buying a van outright is perfectly a viable option. Of course, the thing about buying a backpacker van is that one minute everything is hunky-dory, and then the next your broken down in the middle of the Nullarbor Plain with black smoke spewing from both ends (of the van… not you… if you are too, see a doctor).

Travelling around Australia in a motorhome is THE way to go. Travelling and living in a campervan is a good antidote to the high prices of… everything… and, given the country’s lacklustre public transport services, is also the best way to see everything . 

Of course, you can – and should for trips on a shorter itinerary – go for a budget campervan hire in Australia. Skip the bureaucracy, skip the queue, and, best of all, skip stamp duty <groans internally>. (Our insurance and rego costs are daylight robbery too – fair warning.) All this leaves a rental as the smoothest option for entry into Oz’s untold vastness.

So… what’s the best campervan hire in Australia? Easy, JUCY Campers .

JUCY Campers Australia have been around serving backpackers for a long-long time, so they know their clientele and they know them well . Even while growing up in Byron Bay almost twenty years ago, I remember seeing scores of JUCY campervans parked at the beach. Usually, with some happy-go-lucky, not-a-care-in-the-world bangin’ their lack-of-woes away in the backseat.

They do cheap campervan hire in Australia, and they’ve been around for more than two decades. They gotta be doing something right!

New Zealand RV and Campervan Travel: The Real Aotearoa

It’s fairly comparable to campervan travel in Australia but with less roadside drug testing. And you can cross the country in about eight fewer days. Oh, and petrol is more expensive!

Everything aside, road tripping in New Zealand – and road tripping on South Island in particular – is FUCKING MINDBLOWING. Like, ‘I’m having a transcendental moment just from watching a sunset’ mindblowing. There’s so much to explore in every tucked-away corner, and then you cross the ferry to South Island and New Zealand is all like:  Welcome to New Game Plus, Bi-yatch. 😉

Public transport is meh and hitchhiking is traditionally the gold standard for getting around, but to truly get lost in Aotearoa (The Land of the Long White Cloud), driving a campervan is the way to go. It’s kind of hard to put into words the true majesty of traversing New Zealand’s natural landscape. Can we just say that it did things to my soul and leave it at that?

So, what about cheap campervan hire in New Zealand? Well, you’ve got JUCY Campers New Zealand (yes, same guys obviously) who are also probably the best campervan hire in New Zealand. Seriously, I can’t stress JUCY Campers enough for budget campervans in New Zealand and Australia. RVs, mini-campers, minibuses too – they know they’re way around!

Be careful, though: if you start living in a campervan in New Zealand, you may just decide that it’s finally time to hang up your boots. New Zealand is where people stop travelling.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Japan RV and Campervan Travel: Ore No Daibouken!

Once upon a time, this may have been considered a weird entry on this list. Maybe, it still surprises you.

It’s not that your transport options for travelling around Japan aren’t excellent (because they are, albeit expensive), but a road trip in Japan by campervan is still an amazing way to see the country, and there’s loads to see! Once you’ve broken off the main roads into the mountains, forests, and villages, you’ll see why.

The downside to campervan travel in Japan is that petrol is pricey and the tolls on expressways (the country’s primary road infrastructure) are a nightmare. The upshot is living off home-cooked tofu stirfry is ridiculously cheap and the Japanese are some of the most patient and courteous drivers you will ever encounter.

So what about campervan hire in Japan? I mean, you could buy one outright but somehow I imagine that could get confusing…

Well, guess what? For campervan rental in Japan, you’ve got Japan Campers . Easy name, easy game!

If you’re thinking you’d like to partake in a road trip somewhere other than the standard destinations, I would highly suggest going for a Japanese campervan journey. Japan is still fairly unused to nomadic van living so you can get away with a few more sneaky overnight parks than you would elsewhere and if you want to travel off the beaten track – Shikoku or most definitely Hokkaido is the place to go for vanning – then you’ll be a fan of a van in Japan… man.

USA RV and Campervan Travel: The Good, the Bad, and the Not-So-Ugly

I mean, there are fifty states all up so road tripping the USA by campervan is a pretty damn good way of seeing them all! (Although Alaska and Hawaii may take some tricky planning to reach.)

Look, here’s a picture of the American wilderness:

Now does a campervan road trip in the USA make sense? The American landscape is so majestic that even just seeing an old Spaghetti Western gives me them wanderlust vibes – and that is a term that I loathe and do not use lightly!

So, let’s talk campervan hire in the USA! I mean… you could buy one off of Craigslist, but you might get shot.

For cheap campervan and RV rental in the USA, check out Outdoorsy . It’s another takeoff in the sharing economy; you’re renting motorhomes of actual humans with actual thoughts and feelings and lives.

I gotta be honest: that’s seriously dope. Think Airbnb for the vanlife.

For budget campervan rental in the USA, Outdoorsy is the go. Then you can go and have your own 21st-century Spaghetti Western!

Oh, plus there’s all that legendary rock climbing in the States. You want a van for that shit.

• Driving the West Coast (Road Trip Planner)
• RV Renter’s Guide: Las Vegas
• Driving the East Coast (Road Trip Planner)
• RV Renter’s Guide: California

Canada RV and Campervan Travel: A Little Drive Aboot

To the north of the States is another big-ass country filled with gorgeous nature and lovely people who get weirdly offended whenever I drop the C-bomb. Cultural differences aside, Canada makes the list of the essential ‘Great Roadtrip’ countries.

The RV and campervan game in Canada is strong . It might have something to do with the expansive wilderness simply built for vanlife. Well, it would be fairer to say that vanlife was built for the expansive Canadian wilderness.

Anyway, forget the split hairs! A backpacking adventure in Canadian is supreme and by way of campervan is the best way to truly get lost there. But you’re getting quite far north. By which I mean, it’s getting cold. You’ll want to get the best travel van you can (with some damn proper insulation).

Outdoorsy , once again, is the top pick for cheap campervan and RV rental in Canada. It’s all about that sharing economy! Cheap, good services, and you’re dealing with REAL people rather than a dealership with a salesperson with a 5-syllable last name that has way too many ‘K’s in it.

Find yourself a budget campervan to hire in Canada (ideally with good insulation) and go find a moose! Why a moose? I dunno, I’ve just always wanted to see a wild moose!

Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan RV and Campervan Travel: Meet Stan

See, told you I’d give you some interesting choices! Have you heard of the Pamir Highway? Probably not… I hadn’t either until one of my fellow Broke Backpacker Adventure Experts told me it was the perfect place for a non-standard campervan road trip.

And he’s right! The Pamir Highway is gorgeous! Officially it’s called the M41 Highway (but nobody calls it that) and it runs from the city of Osh in Kyrgyzstan down into and through Tajikistan . Hell, if you’re feeling super adventurous, you can keep driving it into Uzbekistan and Afghanistan !

In all honesty, the scope of Central Asia is breathtaking. Exploring Kyrgyzstan alone is something out of a dream, and that’s just one of the Stans! It’s huge, there is so much space, and it is still vastly untouched by the hand of western tourism. If you’re looking for a van life adventure that really is ‘off the beaten track’, it’s the way to go.

How do you acquire a campervan over that way? Well, you’re outside the scope of most of the standard budget campervan hire services but you still have options. One of the highly recommended options is Iron Horse Nomads in Kyrgyzstan. Owned and run by a couple of ex-pats, these guys can get you sorted for transport around the Stans.

Or you could just charge it: catch a flight over and hope for the best. Worst case scenario, you just buy a horse!

Europe RV and Campervan Travel: Home of the Autobahn

“Europe isn’t a country!”   Shut-up, dude; nobody cares. It still counts.

An RV or campervan in Europe goes a long way towards getting you around; there is a lot to see there. Backpacking around Europe is also expensive as all hell (on the west side), so travelling in a motorhome is also going to go a long way towards keeping your budget in check.

The cool thing about a campervan road trip in Europe is all the countries you’ll visit! By the time you’re done, you’re reasonably looking at 5 to 10 different countries (at least).

That’s a lot of unique cultures, languages, landscapes, and… food! All those accommodation cost savings? Yeah, just put them towards eating your way across Europe!

So, what are your options for cheap campervan and RV hire in Europe? Well, there’s CamperTravel Bookings . They have great coverage right across Europe (in case you forgot, there are a lot of different places in Europe) and they’re cheap with lots of different rental options.

Europe is a bit of a funny one for van travel. When it comes to the idealised road trip, it often gets left behind. But with such great options for budget campervan and RV rental in Europe, it’s becoming a more sought-after destination.

Plus, the roads, man! So big, so fast, so furious, and so damn pretty! Arrgghh, vanlife, YES!

Sort out your rental before you’re living the vanlife DREAM. To get the best price, rentalcars.com simplifies the process at a lower cost and can match you with the right vehicle for your adventure.

So, it’s as simple as finding the best van for your new van life and you’re away, right? With that sort of simplicity, you could be living and sleeping in a campervan within a week. Nay, good sir! Campervan life requires more finesse than that.

Do you remember how the first time you left on a backpacking adventure you packed like a dickhead? But then, you repeated the process and, every time, you got better. The question of what to take on a road trip and even how to live and travel in a van is the same.

It’s all about practice.

You’re starting out – be it your first budget RV rental or your first converted traveller van purchase – and that makes you a beginner. That’s fine though, that means you’re only going to get better: it’s all practice!

And besides, you’ve nabbed yourself a campervan and RV travel guide 101 filled with tips for beginners. Let’s talk finesse!

The RV Travel Lifestyle: What to Expect from Travelling in a Motorhome

Before I give you the bullet point list of deliciously digestible tips, let’s talk about the actual ins and outs of the campervan and RV lifestyle. Whether you’re going on your first great campervan road trip or experimenting with living in an RV full-time, it’s not all just about freedom and good shots for your socials.

First up, there’s adulting. There’s always adulting. Just because you’re living out of a van doesn’t mean you’re not an adult!

Chores are a big part of van life. You know how when you live in a really small flat even not washing the dishes kills those rocking feng-shui vibes? Well, it’s the same deal in a van only multiplied by fifty: it’s a small space.

Kitchen cleanup, sweeping out the dirt, changing the greywater, making your bed… don’t forget to brush your teeth too! Living in a campervan permanently still means being a good homemaker. And if it’s travelling and living in an RV, you’ve just doubled up on your chores and maintenance schedule.

That’s another important point to touch on – maintenance and breakdowns. If you’re not a gear-headed person, prepare to learn. Rolling into the mechanic’s every time you hear an odd noise is going to severely hurt your budget. I’ve watched mates brand new to the van living game teach themselves welding, change windows, and play with their vehicle’s electronics all with the assistance of our benevolent overseer Google: that shows a good mind for it.

It’s also worth mentioning cops. Mileage varies depending on how many laws you’re breaking (aim for less than five) but you will always be in closer proximity to the coppers. And – I think it goes without saying – losing your licence is a death sentence to the lifestyle of a vanner.

The idea of pulling over anywhere anytime is super appealing, but it’s also far from always being that easy, especially in urban environments. Overnight parking and sleeping in a campervan is something cracked-down on, especially in our good ol’ friend, the affluent West, though the ferocity of revenue-raising tactics varies by area. It’s sorta case by case and depends on where you are in the world, your type of van, and how smartly you’ve chosen your park-up.

Stealth van living is an acquired art form and something you will gradually get better at over time. Again, it’s about finesse: a bountiful boondock takes a deft approach.

RV and Campervan Hacks for Travelling

Everyone likes a good hack! Here are some practical tips for beginner RV and campervan travel. A few bits to keep you travelling smooth until you’re a vanlife pro!

• Bring tools – Have a solid supply of tools to work with stored somewhere inside your campervan – everything that’s good for an emergency. A well-stocked toolbox , duct tape (definitely), spare fuses – put some effort into your motorhome inventory checklist!
• Van and RV camping apps – There are actually tonnes of these and many that are region-specific. They’ll help you suss out good camping spots to set up your van at from the free park-ups to the ‘ Why am I paying $35 for cold shower and shit-pit usage?’ variety. There are also some wicked RV trip planner apps out there and even apps for budgeting on gas. App up! It helps.
• Utilise 24-hour stores and petrol stations – They can be a really good place for staying overnight in a campervan. Buy some supplies and then ask the attendant if they mind if you hang around until the sun is up. Or don’t ask and just look scary and unapproachable and they’ll probably leave you alone. Face tats help with that.
• And boondock beautifully – Like I said, sneaky parking takes a bit of practice. However, generally, if you’re rocking up somewhere after dark and not planning a lengthy loiter the following morning, she’ll be right. Worst case scenario, just play the “I was falling asleep at the wheel and really needed to pull over for the night,” card: it’s bulletproof
• For the ladies – Get yourself a GoGirl – it makes girls pee like boys! I won’t give you a how-to, but I reckon you can figure it out. Jokes aside, it’s honestly a really important safety tip. The reason animals are so cautious when and where they do their thang is because they’re vulnerable while they do, and it’s the same for people… unless you have face tats.
• Clear storage bins – And for any other containers you use for storage, clear plastic is the way to go. Not having to unpack everything to find what you’re looking for goes a long way when you’re van living.
• Anti-moisture packs – The desiccant ones (of the ‘DO NOT EAT’ variety) that come in just about any sorta packaging and fresh packets of burrito wraps. Use them for keeping away the damp in your campervan’s storage. But, yeah, don’t eat them.
• Grippy rubber mats – Yeah, look, I have no idea what these are called. These ones! Stick them under your plates, cups, condiments, and whatever else so they don’t slide around on the road.
• Always have a headtorch on hand – Hell, have two. Why stop there? Have six! Every traveller needs a headtorch.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

RV and Campervan Travel Tips for Staying Sane and Not Killing Each Other

Practical tips are good but what about mindset tips for van life? If you’re travelling with someone, there’s always the off-chance that you’ll get sick of them off and drive off the next time they’re using a petrol station toilet.

If you’re travelling alone, well, sometimes the hermit’s path can send us a bit loopy:

• Keep structure – The most important part about freedom is not having too much of it; constraints are good. Set an alarm, have a morning routine, write a to-do list; these things go a long way for keeping you focused.
• And don’t sweat the mistakes – You’ll make them, and you’ll make a lot of them. Getting lost, puncturing a tyre, nearly bogging yourself in an ancient forest deep in the primordial wilderness of Tasmania: these things happen.
• Exercise – Similarly, keeping a routine of steady exercise is equally important. Many people like to join a 24-hour gym chain which has the added bonus of shower usage (that’s a van life hack!). That said, if you’ve ever watched a Youtube video on callisthenics, you know that any old park or tree can be a gym!
• Keep a tight ship – A more-or-less no-brainer but take control of your space, keep it clean, and keep the feng shui on-point. I cannot stress JUST HOW MUCH keeping your space organised is necessary. And when you lose things in a van, just assume it’ll show up by itself in six hours times.
• Meet ‘n’ greet – Use the nights you stay at campsites, backpackers, or wherever else to make friends. Socialising is good! It can’t all be a stoic monk-living in a van.
• Take space – For travel buddies and partners, take some damn space from each other sometimes. It’s basic relationshipping 101. It’s totally ok to have days where everything they say and do makes you want to kick them in the shins, but the healthy response is to go for a long walk (up a mountain).
• Bang it out – For every great fight, there must be a great catharsis. For couples on the road , I’m not the best person to give advice. But if we’re talking a platonic travel buddy, maybe just roll a joint on it instead.
• Take the traveller mindset – Always remember to don your traveller hat. “What’s a ‘problem’ ? I only know of  ‘fun challenges’ . That person looks friendly, I’ll ask for help .”

Get Insured Before Embarking on Your Van Travelling Adventure

Oh, so you got some legally mandated vehicular insurance? Well, that’s a good start, but what about some optional insurance for your anatomical features? Your face, your spine, your favourite bits…

You’re going travelling in a van and that means getting travel insurance before you do because, like it or not, things go wrong. And when they do, someone has to pick up the tab. Personally, I’d prefer that someone be a faceless insurance corporation with the cash to spare rather than my mum.

Make sure to get your backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure! I highly recommend World Nomads, as they’re one of the best travel insurance providers out there.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

History is a funny thing: it works in cycles. Once upon a time, our ancestors walked great distances shepherding their livestock and foraging for food. They followed the sun.

And then, we discovered how nice it is to have a home. You mean I can have a mattress, a flushing toilet, and a kitty-cat? Sign me up!

And now, reality is settling in. Faced with the reality of crushing debt, overwhelming mortgage payments, and storage spaces full of stuff we never use, we once again yearn for the romance of the nomadic life. But things are different now.

Our horses have been replaced with vans, our cooking fires with gas stoves, and our deep-seated fear of the night’s terrors with deep-cycle solar-powered batteries. It’s a new kind of romance, but it’s still an adventure.

To live the minimalist lifestyle and see the world with no roots save the one you’re driving. To do something kick-ass! That’s an adventure.

You know that feeling you get when you’re doing something awesome and ballsy and you’re going your own way? That’s van travel.

Give it a shot. Hire a campervan, or an RV, or a converted ice-cream truck… Hell, build one from scratch! But just give it a damn shot.

Take that first little dip in the water of van life. Then, see if you can go back in the cage.

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

Ziggy Samuels

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I had been traveling around America with my husband for over 10 years, but now it seems impossible, not just because of the pandemic but because we bought a horse farm in Irvine, CA, and have been spending most of our time here ever since. I literally can’t wait to start traveling again!

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Van Life Guide for Beginners: Traveling Around the United States in a Campervan

Written By Bastian Graf

The best way to see North America is on a road trip. Whether you’re planning a road trip and plan to rent a campervan or RV or you’re considering becoming a full-time van lifer, we have you covered. We’ve put together a full guide covering do’s and don’ts, great tips, and expert recommendations for traveling around the United States by road.

Download the full guide here

The best way to see North America is on a road trip. Whether you’re planning a road trip and plan to rent a campervan or RV or you’re considering becoming a full-time van lifer, we...

Here’s what you can find in this Guide:

1. Best Campervan Rentals

• Campervans or Conversion Vans

2. Tips for Campervan Travel 

Plan Out Your Route

Be prepared on the road, must-have travel apps.

• Campervan/Minivan Maintenance

Campervanning = Minimalism so Pack Smart

3. Budget Travel Tips to Save Money on Your Campervan Trip

4. Campervan Travel Guide – Road Trips To Consider

5. Best Campsites or RV Parks to Visit in the US

6. Van Life Tips – Best Places to…?

Take Selfies

Go Stargazing

• Watch the Sunsets

Best Campervan Rentals

Fridge vs. no fridge – lots of space vs. not so much space – proper campervan vs. minivan … decisions decisions decisions.

Renting a car or campervan for the first time can be pretty daunting, and with so many options out there, it can be hard to decide on what’s the best van is for you. Read on for top tips and expert advice on how to find the right vehicle for you.

Here are a few questions you should ask yourself.

• What am I most comfortable driving?
• How many people are in my group?
• What is my overall budget for this road trip?
• Do I prefer to sleep in a vehicle or a tent?

Answering those simple questions will help you to decide between renting a campervan or minivan.

Minivan Rentals

These dependable vehicles are cheap, reliable, and, most importantly, easy to pick up all over the country. We recommend minivans for:

• Travelers who are happy to fold down the seats and throw a mattress in the back of the van.  Packing a tent is also an option.
• Travelers on a budget – minivans are cheaper vehicles to run than campervans or RVs .
• Groups of people who are traveling together (this is a great way to save on the cost of fuel)
• People who are planning to mix it up between camping and staying in hotels .

Campervan Rentals

The perfect vehicle for groups of two who are planning on living on the road, experiencing the van life, for the length of their road trip.

We recommend campervans for:

• People who have a bigger budget to spend on a vehicle
• Travelers who prefer their home comforts such as the fridge, kitchen sink, and gas stove.
• Travelers who are planning on sleeping in their vehicle every night, and are looking for a little more room.
• Travelers who are considering van living as a lifestyle

*Bonus – Some campervans have solar panels!  Having solar panels means you have less of a need to stay at a powered campsite to recharge the batteries for your fridge & lights!

Still not sure what vehicle to rent? Check out our articles  6 Reasons to Rent a Minivan for your Next Road Trip and  6 Reasons Renting a Campervan is the Best Way to Travel the USA .

Tips for Campervan Travel

Traveling around in a campervan is a brand new experience to many people, so we thought we’d put together some tips to ensure that your trip around the USA with Travelers Autobarn is the ultimate, stress-free road trip!

The United States is vast, and you won’t be the first road tripper to look at Google Maps and underestimate how long it will take you to drive from one place to another. But, while you still want to keep some degree of spontaneity in your trip, it’s ideal to have a rough idea of where you want to travel to, the route you want to take, and how long it will take you to get there. If you are going through larger cities, try to avoid rush hour traffic, or you may get delayed for hours.

Have a rough plan of where you want to go, your must-see sites, and where you plan to stay each night will help you stay on budget, be more relaxed, and have a more enjoyable trip. Bring a map of the United States too!  You never know when you may hit a stretch of highway without services, so be prepared!

*Bonus – when you rent a campervan RV or minivan from Travellers Autobarn USA, all of our vehicles come with FREE UNLIMITED MILES ! So even if you detour from your original plan, we have you covered!

Food & Water

The hotter it is, the more water you need.  You don’t want to get stuck in Death Valley National Park without water!

It’s also crucial that you pack some non-perishable food to keep you going should you break down – think cereal bars, nuts, and dried fruit. Try to avoid snacking on salty snacks – it’s just going to make you even thirstier and could speed up dehydration.

Weather – Know the forecast!

Knowing the weather forecast is extremely important!  Depending on the time of year and what parts of the country you plan to campervan through, Mother Nature may have a different plan for your road trip.  Winter months can bring on harsh temperatures, slippery roads, high winds, and road closures. Knowing ahead of time can save you from having to turn around or from being stuck in a stressful situation.

In some parts of the United States, you will need to be aware of hurricane season and pay attention to tornado warnings.  The Weather Channel app is a great way to check the forecasts before you set off on the open road each day.

Our flexible drop-offs and unlimited miles are extra helpful in these situations. Don’t be in a rush!

*Bonus – For more tips on winter travel, check out our Van Life Guide to Winter Road Trips in a Campervan .

Avoid unsealed roads

Although many of the highways and roads in the United States are in good condition, you may end up on a gravel or dirt road.

If you have rented a campervan or car from one of the big cities like Los Angeles, Las Vegas, or San Francisco (to name a few), then you might find that the insurance policy you took out does not cover you when you are driving on unsealed or unpaved roads. Make sure you read the small print.

When you’re driving, be aware that collisions with these animals are frequent, as well as cows and other animals, particularly at nighttime, dawn, or dusk. If you are pulling a night shift at the wheel, then try to ensure that the passenger next to you stays awake and alert to help you watch out for any animals on the road.

And please don’t try and take a selfie with or pet the wild animals!  Not only is it against the law in certain parts of the country, but it is dangerous and could result in serious injuries or even death.

Boondocking – Dry Camping – Wild Camping

Solar panels come in very handy when you need to dry camp.  If you are running out of steam and need to pull over in the middle of the night, or you can’t find a campground for the night, make sure you are in an area that allows the campervan to be parked.  If you are in or near a larger city, it should be reasonably easy to find a Walmart, gas station, or truck stop that will allow you to use the parking lot for the night. Make sure it is 24-hours in the event you need to use the bathroom facilities.  If you are in the middle of nowhere, make sure you don’t park on private property or where there is a “no trespassing” sign.

GasBuddy – An excellent app for travelers on a budget!  Gasbuddy helps locate the cheapest gas near you so you can compare prices and save.  They have a rewards program that allows you to earn points towards free gas, as well.

Google Maps or Waze – Real-time GPS apps with live traffic alerts. Both apps are popular, so it comes down to preference.

The Weather Channel – The Weather Channel app has a free version and is great for current and extended forecasts across the United States. If you are heading to a new location, make sure and double-check the weather forecast.  You may need to change your route, stop and restock your water supply, or give yourself additional time due to slippery roads.

First Aid: American Red Cross – The First Aid app is a must!  We hope you never need it, but in the event, you have a first aid emergency or need to prepare for a weather emergency, the content is preloaded, so you have access to safety tips, step by step instructions, videos, and access to 911 no matter your location.  And it’s free!

HipCamp – Hipcamp is an awesome app for finding and booking campsites, RV parks, and more.

Campervan or Minivan Maintenance

Remember that you are responsible for the campervan while it is in your possession. You should treat it like it is your vehicle and carry out basic maintenance checks every 300-500 miles. Basic maintenance includes checking things like tire pressure, and oil, washer fluid, and coolant levels.

If you’re driving a campervan, then make sure you know the height of the vehicle and be wary of driving into parking garages, under bridges, or low hanging branches if you aren’t sure.

Forest fires and brushfires are unfortunately very common in parts of the United States.  They can be dangerous – so always make sure you adhere to the guidelines.

We recommend that you visit the check the fire danger rating in the area and make sure campfires are permitted where you are staying (particularly in summer).

If you start a campfire, then you must always make sure it is entirely out at the end of the night and have at least 10 liters of water nearby in case it gets out of hand.

Just because you are camping doesn’t mean you have to stick to cups of noodles, hot dogs, or cans of beans.  Get creative and meal prep before you head out on the open road. Here are a few prep tips for cooking in a campervan.

• Cut up your chicken, beef, or pork and toss them in the seasoning or sauces before you pack up.  Not only does this help with cleanup in the campervan, but it also saves space. If you season the meat ahead of time, then you don’t have to pack spices or bottles of sauce, and the meat will be full of flavor! You can even go one step further and cook the meat ahead of time.
• Wash, cut, and put your fruits and veggies in a gallon bag.   Again, this saves time and space on the road and makes it easier for snacks if you are traveling with kids.
• Pack Reynolds Wrap and grilling bags. These are great for preparing meals over the campfire.  Toss in your preseasoned steak strips, potatoes, veggies and add a little water, seal or wrap it up tight and throw it on the fire. Quick cleanup, easy to throw together and delicious!  Foil is also great for cooking breakfast burritos, shrimp boils, teriyaki chicken with peppers and pineapple, fish, and Banana S’Mores, to name a few.
• Precook a few pounds of ground beef! Ground beef is very versatile.  You can throw together some tacos, taco salads or nachos, add to some pasta sauce for a quick spaghetti, or use it for breakfast burritos or hobo packets in the morning. If you aren’t a red meat eater, then chop up some sausage or ground turkey, or mushrooms if you are vegetarian/vegan.

It’s no secret that traveling in a campervan comes with less storage and smaller space than a motorhome.  Dollar stores are a great place to find travel-size toiletries for your road trip, and it’s easier on the budget.

Another great packing tip is to save condiments from fast-food restaurants.  If you know you are going on a campervan road trip, plan to keep any extra condiments from eating out.  Ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper packets take up a lot less space than full-size bottles and don’t require refrigeration.  This not only saves space for additional packing items but doesn’t take up space in the campervan fridge.

Budget Travel Tips to Save Money on your Campervan Trip

One of your biggest outgoings is going to be the cost of your fuel. As we mentioned earlier, one of the best apps we recommend is GasBuddy. It’s convenient for finding the cheapest gas prices in your area. Having an app like GasBuddy or Waze can assist you in not only finding a gas station nearby but also which station has the lowest fuel prices.

*Pro-tip: Having the A/C on all the time will eat into your fuel tank – so if you’re trying to save some money settle for opening the windows instead.

Hit a supermarket with a grocery list in hand!

Once you have rented your campervan, you will likely be departing from one major city, so we recommend that before you hit the road, you stop by a supermarket to stock up on all the essentials (and we don’t just mean beers and sausages for the barbie!).  Have a list! We all know that we spend more money in the grocery store without a list frequently buying food or supplies we don’t need and forgetting items we do.

Buying food and supplies from gas stations and small local stores on the journey can hit your traveling budget hard.

National Parks Pass

If you plan on visiting more than 3 National Parks, then we highly recommend you invest in an annual America the Beautiful pass ! The cost is $80 and gives access to over 2,000 National Parks and National Refuges.  Typically each park has around a $35 entrance fee, so an America the Beautiful pass is an excellent deal for travelers planning National Park Road Trips . If you are 62 and older, they have an annual Senior Pass that is significantly cheaper.  If you are a current, or veteran, member of the US military or if you are a US citizen or permanent resident with permanent disabilities then you are eligible for a free pass.*

*Please confirm prices and terms have not changed for these passes at NPS.gov .

Campervan Travel Guide – Road Trips to Consider

Ultimate National Parks Campervan Road Trip   – One of our top recommendations that you can enjoy in both summer and winter !

West Coast Campervan Road Trips – Los Angeles to Big Sur , LA to San Fran , or Los Angeles to Seattle

The Narrows Hike – Ultimate Zion Campervan Getaway – Zion National Park features some of the most incredible hikes in the United States.

Ultimate Rock Climbing Campervan Road Trip – Not for the novice!  But if you love rock climbing, then this itinerary is a must!

San Francisco to Denver and back – You won’t regret this roundtrip campervan adventure!  Our itinerary takes you through some of the most famous places in the western United States.

Best Campsites or RV Parks to Visit in the USA

The United States has so many amazing places to visit . Traveling around in a campervan lets you see the most popular destinations, plus all of the beauty in between. You’ve decided which campervan is best for your road trip, you know all of the tips and best travel apps, we’ve given you a few road trip itineraries to consider, so now all that is left is where to stay.

The US is full of campgrounds and RV parks with a variety of amenities. However, if you are on a tight budget, you may want to look for free campgrounds along the way.  Just be prepared, many of the free campsites come with no facilities or amenities so you will need to plan accordingly.  Some of these sites are within the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), in parking lots of larger retailers like Costo, Walmart, and Cabelas, and truck stops and rest areas.  Make sure and do your research so that you don’t get ticketed.

Here are 5 of our favorite RV Parks to visit:

• North Pines Campground, Yosemite National Park, California
• Glacier Campground, Glacier National Park, Montana
• Zion River Resort, Zion National Park, Utah
• Mesquite Spring, Death Valley National Park, California
•  Paradise on the River, outside Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Bonus: If you are planning a road trip out of Las Vegas or California, check out our  Best Campervan Campgrounds Near Las Vegas  and  Best Places to Campervan in California.

Van Life Tips – Best Places to…?

Whether it is the Grand Canyon in Arizona, inside of a gigantic tree in Redwood National and State Parks, overlooking the Pacific ocean with the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance, or hiking the Narrows in Zion National Park, we know travel selfies are a must! Here are our top 5 selfie spots.

• Antelope Canyon in Arizona – We already mentioned places like the Grand Canyon & Zion above, but add Antelope Canyon to your list. It is particularly incredible and something everyone should experience.
• Glacier National Park, Montana – Lake McDonald, Grinnel Glacier, Going to the Sun Road – GNP should be on everyone’s bucket list!
• Redwood National & State Parks, California – The enormous redwood trees are not only a site to see but are fantastic backdrops for the avid selfie-taker.
• San Francisco , California – Hawk Hill is a great spot to take a selfie with the Golden Gate Bridge and the city in the distance.
• Las Vegas, Nevada – There are too many spots to list, but the fountain at the Bellagio Hotel is a great place to start.

Pro tip: Any US National Park is a spectacular place for selfies.

Travel outside of the bigger cities, put your phone down, and stargaze into the incredible nighttime sky.

• Arches National Park – Utah Bryce Canyon – Utah
• Death Valley National Park – California (make sure to go during the milder seasons)
• Joshua Tree National Park – California
• Rocky Mountain National Park – Colorado
• Sedona – Arizona (don’t plan to stargaze during the late summer months.  Early July to late August is monsoon season.)

Watch the Sunset

Who doesn’t love a good sunset? Below are some of our favorite spots to take in some of the most magnificent sunsets in North America.

• Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona – The south rim, in particular, provides not only an exceptional sunset experience but a view of most of the canyon itself.
• California – Pick a place! Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Big Sur, Joshua Tree National Park.  California is full of beautiful sunsets locations.
• Montana/Wyoming – Glacier National Park , The Grand Tetons or Yellowstone National Park.  The clean mountain air and the sun setting behind the mountains – you can’t go wrong.
• Santa Fe, New Mexico – Old Fort Marcy Park is an incredible experience for those willing to hike.
• Arches National Park, Utah – When the sun sets, it changes the colors in the sandstone arches making a spectacular visual experience and a prime opportunity for incredible photos.

You are all set for traveling around the USA in a campervan, now book your campervan at one of our three US RV rental locations !

Here are a few other guides you might enjoy.

Guide to the Best Campgrounds for Campervans in the USA

Guide to Free Camping in the USA

Visit all our Guides here

Considering traveling overseas?  Check out our other Beginner’s Guides for New Zealand and Australia Campervan Trips.

About the Author

Bastian Graf

Bastian is the Sales & Marketing Manager here at Travellers Autobarn. He holds a Master of Commerce in Marketing and International Business Management, and 20+ years experience in campervan hire, road trips and travel.

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The 16 Best Camper Vans for Road-Tripping in Style

Now you can experience #vanlife in comfort and style..

Senior Staff Writer

Bryan Hood's Most Recent Stories

Why mclaren wants its supercars to sell for higher prices, bmw is making an ‘entry-level’ race car based on the m2, this new dodge durango hellcat might be the last with a hemi v-8 engine.

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The first years of this decade have already provided ample evidence that it’s important to get away from our daily lives from time to time.  And you don’t have to suffer the airport hordes or step foot on a plane to do so. We currently find ourselves in something of a golden age for luxury trailers, which has made it easier than ever to take your life on the road without sacrificing many, and in some cases any, of the comforts of home. And now, there are plenty of manufacturers and dedicated conversion shops giving the same treatment to vans and other similar vehicles. They may not be able to sleep as many people as their hulking cousins—with one key exception—but these all-in-one wonders come loaded with perks such as high-end kitchens, Wi-Fi-enabled multimedia systems, and plush beds. Plus, their relatively smaller size means they are more agile, off-road friendly, and easier to park. Below are 16 campers that will let you experience #vanlife in comfort and style.

Our Best Camper Van Picks

Best overall: airstream atlas, best for off-roading: jayco terrain, best for weekend getaways: volkswagen california, best for off-the-grid trips: winnebago solis, best for cyclists: outside van tails, best for camping (anywhere): storyteller overland beast mode 4×4, best to live in: loki expeditions discovery series, best all-electric option: tonke eqv.

• Best for G-Wagen Lovers: Terracamper Tecrawl

Best With a Bathroom and Shower: Thor Motor Coach Sanctuary

Best for $50,000: caravan outfitter free bird, best comeback: westfalia wave, best for families: winnebago boldt, best for winter road trips: sportsmobile sprinter 4×4, best conversion: boho old faithful, best for diy couples: ford transit trail.

Sometimes bigger really is better. Just ask Airstream, whose range of camper vans, or touring coaches as the brand calls them, is topped by the Atlas. Yes, it’s a van, but it has all the space and features you’d expect to find in a much larger RV thanks to its unique power slide-out section that isn’t available on the also-excellent Interstate 24X. There’s only one floorplan to choose from—the Murphy Suite—but it has everything you could need including a pull-down Murphy bed, couch, kitchenette, closet, and large residential-style bathroom with a standalone toilet and shower. The Mercedes-based vehicle may sleep fewer people than some of the other entries on this list—it’s designed for two, although there’s room to entertain more—but the trade-off is an unusual amount of comfort for the class. This will come in handy for short trips, of course, but especially if you and yours are planning to spend some serious time on the road.

Special Features: —The power slide-out section means there is plenty of room for both rest and relaxation. —Pull-down Murphy bed and large bathroom allow you to really bring home on the road.

Jayco is best known for its hulking travel trailers, but like Airstream, it can do compact, too (well, compact enough to fit in a parking space, that is). The US company’s new  Terrain  model, which starts at $192,000, is an adventure van designed for those who like to veer from the beaten path. As the name suggests, it’s designed for off-roading, with a turbo-diesel V-6, Koni shocks, a rear stabilizer and a rear hitch strong enough to tow an additional trailer if you need more room. Inside, it’s a little spartan compared to some other options on this list, but its kitchenette can be converted into a sleeping area with room for a full-size bed, as well as plenty of storage space beneath. There’s even a built-in awning when you need some shade in the summer months.

Special Features: —Equipped with Koni shocks, a rear stabilizer and a heavy-duty tow hitch. —Kitchenette can be converted into a spacious sleeping area with room for a full-size bed.

Volkswagen has shown over the years that it knows a thing or two about building a solid camping van. The latest iteration of the California may not be a classic Microbus, but it’s the next best thing currently out there. The stylish van may not look all that big, but VW has turned it into a versatile mini-RV thanks, in no small part, to its roof-mounted pop-up tent. Just as important, though, is the ultra-flexible passenger cabin which is surprisingly well-stocked considering its size. Five different interior layouts are available—Beach, Beach Tour, Beach Camper, Coast, and Ocean— making this van an option for basically every kind of camper out there.

Special Features: —Five layout options make the vehicle well-suited to almost every kind of camper. —Pop-up roof tent means that going to bed requires minimal fuss.

The Winnebago Solis is for adventurers who don’t want to be confined to the campground. The van is available with an optional power kit that has everything a group of up to four adults needs to spend a few days off-the-grid. The setup, which includes an inverter, a shore battery converter, a battery energy converter, a solar energy converter and an alternator energy optimizer, can produce enough power to keep the van and all its features running for up to 72 hours. On top of that, the van features a kitchenette, a convertible entertainment area with room for a double bed, and a full-width wet bath.

Special Features: —A unique power kit that can provide enough power to spend up to 72 hours off the grid. —Still has all the features you’d expect from a luxe camper van, including a full-width wet bath.

If you like to mix biking and camping, Outside Van has the vehicle for you. The Portland brand’s  Tails  model is a camper van designed with cyclists in mind. The van, which is based on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, has everything you need for a few days away from home, including a kitchenette, a roll-over sofa and a convertible mattress. But what really sets it apart is the rear of the vehicle that’s basically an on-the-go bicycle repair shop, with a fold-down work table, an air compressor and Molle panels to hang all your tools. If that wasn’t enough, it somehow has room for six bikes, even when the bed is laid out for the night.

Special Features: —The back of the van is basically a bicycle-repair shop with a fold-down table, an air compressor and plenty of storage space for tools. —Has room for six bikes, even when its convertible sleeping area is out.

This latest offering from Storyteller Overland, based in Birmingham, Ala., is a true adventure van. The  Beast Mode 4×4  is the outfit’s most feature-packed model yet and was designed specifically for overlanding (as you may have guessed from the company’s name). It’s a true 4×4 powered by a 188 hp turbodiesel V-6 that’s strong enough to tow an additional 5,000 pounds. Its slick retro-style livery is offset with loads of useful off-roading gear, too, such as an LED light package, a roof rack and a side ladder and custom wheels wrapped in BF Goodrich K02 tires. Inside, you’ll find everything you need to relax after a day of exploring, including a cushy lounge that can be converted to a full-size sleeping area. There’s even a climate-control system to ensure you’re comfortable no matter the weather outside. It’s priced at a flat $198,746, for everything listed above.

Special Features: —Turbodiesel V-6 sends 188 hp of power to all four wheels and is strong enough to tow 5,000 extra pounds. —Surprisingly cushy lounge for an off-roading beast.

Let’s get this out of the way: the Loki Expeditions Discovery Series isn’t technically a camper van. It’s a giant expedition vehicle, but because its cabin is installed directly onto a heavy-duty truck chassis you also don’t need anything to tow it. The vehicle’s cabin is what separates it from anything else on this list. Loki Expeditions has turned a shipping container—yes, you read that right—into a full-featured living space that has all the amenities you’d expect to find in a luxury apartment, including a full kitchen with a large fridge, an entertainment area with a U-shaped banquet, and a wet bath with a cassette toilet. It’s also big enough to sleep six adults, with room for two in the dedicated bedroom and four in the entertainment area. And because the heavy-duty vehicle, which starts at $550,000, has all-wheel drive, you can take it practically anywhere.

Special Features: —Cabin has all the features you’d expect to find in a well-appointed apartment and can sleep six adults. —Built on a burly heavy-duty truck chassis that gives you the freedom to venture off the beaten path.

Looking for an EV you can take to the campground. The upcoming EQV just might fit the bill. Despite its relatively compact size—it’s smaller than the ever-popular Sprinter—Dutch camping outfit Tonke has managed to outfit it with everything you need to spend some time communing with nature. It has an entertainment area that doubles as a workspace along with a kitchenette, both of which can be converted into a two-person sleeping area with a simple flip of a bench (a roof-mounted, pop-up tent means it can sleep two more, too). Best of all, there are two variants available—the Touring, which is designed for long road trips, and the Adventure, which is aimed at casual campers.

Special Features: —Fully electronic power train means you won’t have to worry about filling up the tank (though the battery is another story). —Can sleep up to four even despite its relatively compact size.

Best for G-Wagen Lovers: Terracamper Tecrawl 

The Tecrawl isn’t a camper van per se, but it’s hard to leave something this cool off a list like this. Terracamper’s latest offering is based on one of Mercedes-Benz’s most legendary vehicles, the G-Wagen . The German shop has dreamed up a modular accessory kit for the luxury 4×4, that starts at $11,900 and includes a roof-mounted tent, a convertible sofa, and a pull-out kitchenette with a fridge box. Thanks to the ingenious setup, the boxy SUV can sleep up to three and act as your home base next time you want to rough it for the weekend. And because it’s a G-Wagen you can take it as far off-road as you want.

Special Features: —A G-Wagen but has room for up to three people to sleep. —Packs a brawny powertrain that’s well-suited for off-road adventures.

Thor Motor Coach makes camper vans for those uninterested in making sacrifices. With the  Sanctuary , the company has taken Mercedes-Benz’s already excellent Sprinter 2500 4×4 and turned it into something you could easily live on—on or off the grid. The off-road-ready vehicle comes in two configurations—the 19P ($148,680), which features a back bench that converts into a bed, or the 19L ($151,060), which has a fixed double bed. Even with the bed there’s still plenty of room for other creature comforts, including a bathroom, an entertainment area with a TV and a kitchen with a sink, a dual-burner cooktop, a convection microwave oven and a fridge. An Onan 2500 LP generator keeps everything up and running, too, including an A/C system you can leave on for eight hours at a time. There’s also retractable power awning when you want to spend some time outdoors.

Special Features: —Full-featured bathroom has a sink, a shower and a toilet. —Available with your choice of either a convertible or a fixed bed.

Caravan Outfitter’s third-generation Free Bird isn’t the most feature-laden camper van out there, but it has everything you and the family need to spend a weekend (or more) at the campground. The van, which starts at $50,810, is built on the relatively compact Ford Transit Connect platform but still has room for a full-size bed, a multi-purpose table that can be used as a dinette or workstation, and a pull-out kitchenette with a sink. Because it’s smaller than other options on this list, it only has room to sleep two, but there are several enticing add-ons, including roof- and rear-mounted capsule tents, in case you’re traveling group includes more people.

Special Features: —It’s the rare camper van that’s small enough to be comfortably parked inside your garage. —Caravan Outfitters offers several intriguing add-ons so you customize it to your liking.

After a two-decade absence, famed German (and French-owned) camper maker Westfalia has returned to the U.S. The company’s first new stateside model is the Wave, a Ram Promaster 3500-based van stocked with luxury amenities and plenty of room for your travel party. The Wave stretches 20.7 feet bumper-to-bumper and Westfalia has done everything it can to maximize the space. The cabin has everything you could need, including a kitchen with an island extension and a full wet bath with a stand-up shower. Its most impressive feature may be its many sleeping areas, though. The rear seating can be converted into a queen-size bed and the dinette into a double mattress. There is also a roof-mounted pop-up tent with room for two. It may not be based on a Volkswagen, but the Wave is still almost as “Westy” as they come.

Special Features: —The spacious interior includes a kitchen with an island extension that makes meal prep that much easier. —The van’s 20.7-foot length means there’s enough room to sleep up to six adults.

Airstream isn’t the only famous RV maker that’s gotten into the camper van game. Winnebago actually sells several, and our favorite is the luxe  Boldt . Despite being nowhere near as long as one of its campers—it caps out at 22 feet in length—the $230,276 van has everything you’d expect from the larger vehicle, including dedicated living and sleeping areas, a fully functional kitchen and a bathroom equipped with a shower. You also have several interior decor options to choose from, each of which delivers an updated take on classic Winnebago style. The Boldt is designed for paved roads and campgrounds, but if you want a more rugged ride, the brand also offers the off-road-ready  Revel.

Special Features: —Stretches 22 feet bumper to bumper, meaning there’s plenty of room for you and yours. —Enough space for dedicated entertaining and sleeping areas.

Take one look at  Sportsmobile’s Sprinter 4×4  and it’s clear what its designers had in mind: off-roading. Whether you go with the 12- or 14-foot configuration, the Texas outfit’s stripped-down take on Mercedes’s ultra-popular van comes equipped with a 3.0-liter BlueTec V-6 connected to a five-speed automatic transmission and pumps out 188 hp and 325 ft lbs of torque. That should be more than enough to tackle even the toughest terrain. Inside, you’ll find a spacious living area with a full-featured kitchen. If you want even more room, you can also opt for a pop-up sleeping area that’ll make it that much easier to lounge in comfort.

Special Features: —Well insulated throughout, but also has space for a propane furnace or heater. — 3.0-liter BlueTec V-6 and four-wheel drive mean it can take on any terrain.

Struggling to find a camper van that’s just right? Boho might be able to help. The Arizona-based company specializes in conversions and will work with you to create the vehicle of your dreams. The company offers several 20- to 24-foot layouts—of which the most popular is the appropriately named Old Faithful—that can be further tailored to meet your needs, whether your priority is multi-season versatility, lots of cooking space, or spending serious amounts of time on the road. The company also offers plenty of cool add-ons too, like wood paneling and flooring.

Special Features: —Versatile layouts that can be further customized so that you’re getting the exact van you want. —The wooden interior option looks better than it has any right to.

Ford’s ready to knock the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter off its perch. The Detroit giant unveiled its own camper van, the Transit Trail, last fall. The adventure-ready vehicle is based on its uber-popular commercial van but is taller, wider and outfitted with protective body cladding. It’s also powered by a potent V-6 that sends 310 horses and 400 ft lbs to all four wheels via a 10-speed automatic gearbox. Right now, Ford seems content to let the $65,975 vehicle be the base for the camper van of your dreams, but it comes loaded with a slew of features that will come in handy at the campground, including a drillable wall you can use to install shelves, a kitchenette or furniture, along with a 12-inch infotainment touchscreen and a back-up camera. It also available in three body configurations—medium-roof, standard length; high-roof, standard length; and high-roof, extended length—one of which should fit your needs.

Special Features: —It’s basically a blank slate for you and your partner to create your own dream camper. —Still comes with premium features such as a 12-inch infotainment screen and a back-up camera.

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On the Road: Epic Trips to Tackle in Your Van

Or rv, or airstream trailer, or motorhome . . ..

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Vanlife isn’t restricted to vans—lovers of Airstreams and teardrop trailers enjoy a similar lifestyle.

Photo by Airstream Inc./Shutterstock

Since the term “vanlife” entered the lexicon in 2011—and went viral two years ago —the freewheeling, on-the-road lifestyle to which it refers has evolved from a fascination to a trend to a norm. Droves of Instagram-loving millennials and even boomers are following in the tire tracks of RV-loving retirees (those prescient first-adopters) and buying or renting motorhomes, Airstream trailers, or vans to hit the highways on extended trips and shorter “vancations.”

The increase in interest means that the resources available to these modern-day van-dwellers are also proliferating. The internet abounds with explainers on DIY van conversions and restorations. You can find cooking blogs geared toward road warriors, maintenance how-tos, and tell-alls about the lifestyle. And the rigs are getting better too. Companies like Nissan, Volkswagen, and Airstream have tailored their new releases to this wider audience with electric models, customizable and convertible interiors, and Smart Control Technology . Rental companies, too, are popping up to offer the curious a taste of vanlife.

Related The Best Tools for Planning a Road Trip You could go from interested to outfitted in a matter of days. And once you’ve picked a vehicle—a retro Vanagon, sleek Airstream, Insta-friendly Sprinter conversion, or uber-luxurious motorhome—and geared up , the only thing left is to do is figure out where to go. Here, a few of the best places to start, including beginner favorites, the tried-and-true, and envy-inducing Big Trips.

The Pacific Coast

The western United States is a popular place for vanlifers—partly because the abundance of land managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) offers so many free and attractive places to set up camp. California in particular, with its warm, sunny climate; 655.8-mile Pacific Coast Highway ; and established RVer communities, is a magnet for road-trip enthusiasts.

California offers plenty of beachside camp spots perfect for parking and relaxing for a while.

Photo by Anton Mishin/Unsplash

You could start at the Canadian border (or in Vancouver, if you’re ambitious) and wind your way through redwood groves, wine countries, and desert landscapes down to Baja. But if you’re new to the game, consider parking in one spot for a while; you’ll minimize the stressors of driving and instead simply enjoy the lifestyle. Ventura, a Southern California city with beachside RV parking, has hosted a vanlife community since long before the hashtag, and Baja’s on-beach camping and sparkling Sea of Cortez make it a popular winter escape for all types of overland travelers.

An American classic, Route 66 is traditionally motel territory. But while you won’t find as many campsites full of like-minded road warriors as you would in California, there are still a number of KOA campgrounds along the way, as well as swathes of wide-open (and dare we say underappreciated) BLM land.

Road-trip friendly infrastructure makes this drive a great one for anyone attempting a first extended vancation. (Kitschy roadside diners can be a welcome relief after a few days cooking in a cramped campervan kitchen, and there are plenty of gas and service stations—some of which are even famous stops along the route .) Route 66 is a road made for moseying. Plan to spend two weeks or more exploring small-town historic districts like Galena, Kansas, and Amarillo, Texas; embracing your inner-artist in the VW van–loving Albuquerque ; and stopping to photograph Oklahoma’s Milk Bottle Grocery and Blue Whale of Catoosa, as well as every other quirky landmark.

Related Put a New Twist on Route 66—Make It an American Whiskey Road Trip National Parks Loop

There are 417 U.S. National Park Service (NPS) sites—parks, seashores, historic sites, battlefields, and more—and you could, like blogger and LGBT activist Mikah Meyer , drive your converted cargo van to every single one of them. A more reasonable, though still ambitious, route would take you to the 57 national parks in the continental United States (driving to Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and American Samoa gets complicated). But the beauty of a national parks road trip is that you can customize it.

Photographers might want to spend 10 days winding along the red rock–lined roads of canyon country in the southwestern states. Outdoor enthusiasts may drive their rigs to less-visited areas of Grand Teton or Glacier National Parks to explore lonely trails without shouldering backpacking gear. And while harsher climates and a density of cities make the eastern and southeastern states less obvious vanlife destinations, parks such as Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains , with their waterfalls and miles of wooded trails, have convinced plenty of road-trippers to turn their wheels toward that part of the country in late spring and early fall.

In countries with right-to-access laws, like Norway, it’s easy to pull your van over almost anywhere and camp.

Photo by Andrey Armyagov/Shutterstock

The Pan-American Highway

For dedicated vanlifers, the Pan-American Highway is the “white whale” of road trips. A daunting, unwieldy, months- or years-long adventure, the route became popular after the couple behind the well-known blog and Instagram account The Bus and Us documented their journey from Alaska to Argentina and then back again. This is the kind of thing you do on a sabbatical, after quitting a job, or before committing to a new career.

Unlike Route 66 or the Pacific Coast Highway, this path is flexible. Whether you start at the northernmost point in Alaska or the southernmost in Argentina, the official highway is more of a guideline with plenty of opportunities for detours. Explore Denali National Park and the forests of western Canada. Lose track of time hopping from one charming mountain town to the next in central Mexico . You’ll have to ship your rig from Panama to Colombia because the Darien Gap interrupts the road. But once in South America, spend your time climbing into the Andes and down again into the salt flats of Bolivia, the Atacama desert, and Patagonia, before finishing your journey in Ushuaia, the city known as the “end of the world.”

Choose Your Own International Adventure

Once you’ve dipped your toe in international van or RV travel, it can be hard to stop. If you’ve gone all-in and your vehicle is your primary home, shipping it to your next destination may be worthwhile. But lots of places, including Australia, New Zealand, and many European countries, have a long history of campervan vacations, and as a result, it’s easy to rent a van for any length of time. Challenge yourself with an (educated) excursion into the Australian Outback . Exercise your (respectful) right to use and camp on the land and in Norway and Sweden. Or indulge in a mellow pace and good seafood along the coasts of Spain and Portugal. Who knows, the road may even lead you to Mongolia .

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21 Camper Van Rental Companies for Your US Road Trip

Rent an adventuremobile from one of these camper van rental companies & choose from Sprinters, Vanagons, Ford Transits, Sportsmobiles & more!

Looking for a camper van rental so you can check off multiple National Parks in one big road trip without dealing with hotels or setting up a tent every night? Or maybe you’re thinking about #vanlife, but you’re not 100% sure you want to commit fully? A campervan rental for your next US road trip will give you the opportunity to experience van life, get off the beaten path, and have a more spontaneous adventure.

With the increasing popularity of van life, camper van rental companies are popping up across the country so no matter where you’d like to adventure, there’s a good chance you’ll find a campervan rental near you.

To help you find the right camper van rental for your next road trip, in this roundup we share an extensive list of camper van rental companies in the US, including options from east to west. We break down locations, the types of vans available, pricing, and more so you can narrow down your search.

Also, before you go, check out our Van Life 101 guide to learn more about van life whether for a short-term stint via a camper van rental or if you’re looking to do van life longer term. And be sure to grab our packing checklist below as well!

Van Life Packing Checklist

Get this free PDF that will help you pack up your van in a jiffy.

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Why Rent a Camper Van?

Renting a camper van can provide an elevated road trip experience by pairing some of the comforts of home with the freedom of the open road.

With a camper van, you’ll have everything you need with you including a bed, kitchen, indoor seating space, and in some cases, even a bathroom. There’s no need to set up camp and pitch a tent every night, so you’ll have the flexibility to camp in more places and will be able to move around more easily.

Plus, depending on where you want to travel, daily rental fees may be cheaper than a hotel room, and you can also save by cooking your own meals since most rental camper vans come with a sink, cooking equipment, fridge (or at least a cooler), and a stove.

Many people also rent a camper van to give van life a try before diving in and committing to buying a van themselves. It’s also a great way to test out a certain type of camper van model and layout to see if it’s the right fit for you.

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Considerations for Renting a Campervan

With the growing popularity of van life, there are a growing number of camper van rental companies out there offering campervan rentals of all types for all budgets. That means you’ve got a good chance of finding a campervan rental at the right price for you.

Base pricing generally includes a certain number of daily miles (usually starting at 100 miles/day included, sometimes more) with an additional cost per mile if you go over.

Camper van rental companies often provide basics like bedding, camp chairs, a camp table, and cooking supplies although this varies and may not be included in some of the more budget campervan rentals. Most camper van rental companies also offer add-ons for an extra fee such as portable toilets, rooftop tents, and bike racks.

Be aware that you may need to pay a deposit and cleaning fee in addition to the rental fee, so be sure to read the company’s FAQs or discuss this with them before booking.

Seating & Sleeping Space

You’ll want to make sure the rental camper van you’re looking at can safely seat and sleep the number of people that you’ll be road tripping with. For example, some campervans have bench seating in the back, but these seats don’t always have seatbelts and aren’t meant to be used while driving.

Some campervan rentals offer a rooftop tent in addition to indoor sleeping space so you can have two separate sleeping areas. And some rental companies offer an add-on camping tent you can pitch if you need more sleeping space as well.

Read next: See the Best Campervan Layouts for Families to get some ideas on how to comfortably fit everyone.

Some camper van rental companies include a variety of amenities in their rental fee, and some offer them as add-ons for an additional fee . Make sure you’re clear on what’s included in the price so you can plan accordingly.

From a fully stocked kitchen with a stove, cookware, and dishes to camp chairs, an outdoor table, and bedding, some camper van rentals come with all the amenities you need to cook and relax on your road trip.

On the other hand, some budget rental campervans are a little more bare bones so you’ll need to bring camping, cooking, and sleeping supplies with you.

You generally pay for what you get, so if you need the convenience of having all the amenities supplied (for example, if you’re flying to your destination and you don’t want to deal with bringing everything with you), then you’ll want to look for a campervan rental company who provides everything you need.

If you’ll be picking up a camper van near home and can load it up with everything you need for your trip, you can likely save some money by bringing your own gear.

Read next: For a full list of recommendations with photos and descriptions, check out my Van Life Essentials Guide .

Bathroom Facilities

Some camper van rentals come complete with a shower and toilet (usually a porta potty), and some don’t. If a bathroom is a must for you, make sure this is something you look for when searching for rentals, but be aware you’ll likely pay a little more as well.

If you plan to camp at campgrounds where bathrooms and showers are readily available, you can likely go without these luxuries and save some money. And if you plan on finding free campsites without facilities, you can likely get by with a portable shower and portable toilet system if you don’t mind roughing it a little.

We’ve noticed that most camper van rental companies will allow dogs for an additional fee , although there is one company on our list below that lets dogs join the adventure for free, and there are a few who don’t allow them at all.

Be sure to look into this before booking if you plan on road tripping with your dog .

Age Requirements

You must be at least 21 years old to rent an RV or camper van in the US .

Many campervan rental companies charge an additional fee for drivers who are under the age of 25 due to additional insurance costs.

When looking into renting a camper van, you’ll want to look into insurance requirements and pricing as well. Some camper van rental companies include insurance in their daily rates, while some add on an additional daily fee for insurance .

Most camper van rental companies do not allow you to be covered by your personal auto policy or credit card for campervan rentals . This is because most basic auto policies do not cover campervans that are classified as Class B RVs. Be sure to check with your insurance company prior to booking a campervan rental and ask specifically if your policy includes Class B RV coverage.

One Way Campervan Rentals

Depending on your road trip plans, you may want to start in one location and end in another to make the most of your time and avoid backtracking. If that’s the case, check with the campervan rental company to see if they charge an additional fee for one-way rentals.

In some cases, we’ve seen rental companies offer discounts on certain one way routes when they need a van transported from one location to another – that’s something to look out for as well.

Peer-to-Peer Camper Van Rentals

With the rising popularity of van life, there are now a handful of peer-to-peer campervan rental companies where people rent out their own campervans – kind of like Airbnb but for camper van rentals. This allows owners to earn extra income by renting out their campervans when they’re not using them, and it gives travelers the chance to pick from a variety of campervan models, layouts, and interior designs.

These peer-to-peer campervan rental sites allow you to easily search for campervans available in your area or in the area you plan on traveling to.

Peer-to-peer camper van rental companies you’ll find on our complete list below include Outdoorsy and GoCamp . The rest of the companies on our list are all camper van rental companies that own a fleet of converted campervans.

How Much Does a Camper Van Rental Cost?

Camper van rentals can cost anywhere from $33 per day to upwards of $500 per day . Those rates often don’t include insurance or additional amenities you may want for your road trip. But the good news is, there are budget camper van rentals available if that’s what you’re looking for.

A few budget-friendly camper van rental companies you’ll find on our list below include:

Escape Campervans

• Lost Campers
• Voyager Campervans

Best US Camper Van Rental Companies

Now here is our list of the best camper van rental companies across the US rounded up by our team of van lifers.

Outdoorsy Campervan Rentals

• Rental Locations:  All across the US by owner
• Types of camper vans: All
• Price: Varies

Outdoorsy is one of the leading peer-to-peer RV and camper van rental companies and is essentially like Airbnb but for campervan rentals. They connect RV and camper van owners with renters and their selection includes everything from vintage Airstreams, Class A, B, and C of RVs, as well as a variety of trailers and camper vans. Simply enter your location, dates, and the number of campers to see what’s available in your area.

Native Campervans Rentals

• Rental Locations: Denver, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas
• Types of camper vans: Dodge Ram Promaster camper vans
• Price: starting at $69/night

We love that Native Campervans classifies their rentals as “Biggie”, “Smalls”, and “Squad”. Biggie rides 2 and sleeps 2 with all the comforts of an RV. Smalls is smaller and sportier and sits and sleeps two. And last but not least, Squad (pictured above) has room to seat AND sleep 4 along with proper DOT-approved seating to keep the kiddies (and your favorite backseat drivers) safe.

Native Campervans include basics like bedding, camp chairs, a table, and cooking essentials. Rates start at $69 per night and they require a 3-night minimum.

Moterra Campervans

• Rental Locations: Jackson WY, Whitefish MT, San Francisco CA, Salt Lake City UT, Las Vegas NV, Seattle WA, Portland ME
• Type of camper vans: pop-top and high-roof Sprinter camper vans
• Price: starting at $279/night

Born in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, locally-owned and operated Moterra Campervans offers high-end all-inclusive Sprinter camper van rentals across the United States. Both pop-tops and high-roof Sprinters are available in their fleet – all are 3 years old or less and built out by Sportsmobile. They include everything you need for your campervan road trip as a standard and also offer fully customized itineraries for those who want to take the stress out of planning their own campervan vacation.

Moterra’s pop-top vans accommodate 4 people with 2 double beds and have a full kitchen with an optional toilet. Their high-roof vans accommodate 2 and have a full kitchen and full bathroom complete with a hot water shower and a toilet. Rates start at $279/night and they have a 3-night minimum in the low season and a 5-night minimum in the high season.

• Rental Locations: Los Angeles CA, San Francisco CA, Las Vegas NV, Portland OR, Seattle WA, Salt Lake City UT, Denver CO, Phoenix AZ, Chicago IL, Orlando FL, New York NY
• Type of camper vans: Ford camper vans and Jeeps with rooftop tents
• Price: starting at $33/day

Escape Campervans is one of the largest campervan rental companies in the US with locations across the US and a fleet of more than 600 campervans converted in house. Each van is unique with hand painted designs which makes for some fun photos on your trip.

Escape Campervans offers 4 different models of converted Ford campervans, as well as a Jeep camper with a rooftop tent, that can seat and sleep anywhere from 2 to 5 people. Rates start at $33/day and they have a 3-14 day minimum depending on location, time of year, and whether you’re doing a round trip or one way camper van rental.

All their camper van rentals include a bed, dining area, sink, refrigerator, stove, and a dual battery system with solar. Extras like bedding, camping gear, and kitchen kits are available for an additional fee.

Escape Campervans are also available in Canada via Vancouver and Calgary.

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Mercedes Sprinter RV Rental

• Rental Locations: 28 locations throughout California, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Oregon, Idaho, Utah, Nevada, Montana, Wyoming, and Washington
• Types of camper vans: Luxury Sprinter camper vans
• Price: starting at $2950/week

Departing from 28 locations in the Western US, this company solely offers Mercedes Sprinter luxury camper vans for rent. All their rental vans have full bathrooms with a shower, sink, and toilet. They also come with solar power and are decked out with ovens and TVs for late-night movies. These Mercedes Sprinter RV campervans can seat up to 7 people and sleep up to 4 people. Be prepared though–all of these amenities can run you about $400-$500 a night.

Peace Vans Rentals

• Rental Locations: Seattle, WA
• Types of camper vans: VW Vanagons, Mercedes Sprinters, and Mercedes Metris pop-up campers
• Price: starting at $265/night

Based in Seattle, WA, Peace Vans Rentals offers Pacific Northwest campervan rentals, as well as limited one-way campervan rentals between Seattle, WA and Santa Cruz, CA. They rent out beautiful, classic VW Vanagons, each unique in their own way, as well as Mercedes Sprinters and Metris pop-up campers for those looking for something a bit more modern. They throw in lots of thoughtful extras like cookware, spices, wine glasses, a french press, fresh ground coffee, and more.

Pricing starts at $265 per night with a 4-night minimum in the shoulder season and a 6-night minimum in the high season.

Vintage Surfari Wagons

• Rental Locations:  Costa Mesa, CA
• Types of camper vans: VW Vanagons, Eurovans, and Mercedes Metris camper vans
• Price: starting at $135/night

Ever dreamed of taking a vacation in a nostalgic Volkswagon camper bus? We have! Here is your opportunity to flashback to the 1970’s/80’s era with these great campervan rentals in the greater Los Angeles area. Vintage Surfari Wagons  has a fleet of buses, Vanagons, and Eurovans for rent from the 1970s-2000s plus Mercedes Metris campervans for those of you looking for something a little more modern. Rates start at $135 per night and they generally have a 2-night minimum.

Hawaii Surf Campers Rentals

• Rental Locations: Oahu, HI
• Types of camper vans: VW Vanagons, Ford Econolines, and Ford Transit camper vans
• Price: starting at $149/night

Hawaii Surf Campers offer a range of campervans for rent with a variety of Volkswagens to Ford Econolines and Transits that start at $149 a night. They offer airport pick-ups and drop-offs for a small fee and they provide their guests with a map of camping recommendations around the island.

One cool perk, they partner with a local surf school where you can get discounted lessons, and you can add a surfboard to any rental for an additional fee. If you also plan to visit Kauai on your trip, read more about whether or not it’s worth renting a van there  here .

Campervan North America Rental

• Rental Locations: Yellowstone/Bozeman, MT
• Type of camper vans: Ford Transit, Mercedes Sprinter, Dodge Promaster
• Price: starting at $100/night

Campervan North America offers 5 different camper van models to choose from, including a converted Dodge Promaster, Mercedes Sprinter, and Ford Transit. Many of their vans were purchased new and then converted so they’re peppier and have lower miles than some other options you might find.

Their vans sleep up to 5 people depending on the model. The interiors are clean and simple; some models have kitchens and baths and some don’t. During the high season, they have a 7-night minimum and a 4-night minimum rental for the rest of the year. Rates start at $100/night although they offer discounts for rental periods longer than 15 days.

VanCraft Sprinter Campervan Rentals

• Rental Locations: San Diego CA, Denver CO, and Salt Lake City UT
• Types of camper vans: Mercedes Sprinter camper vans
• Price: starting at $59/night

VanCraft offers 3 models of campervans for rent: long-wheelbase Sprinters, short-wheelbase Sprinters, and Micro Campervans. All of the vans include a full-sized bed, off-grid solar power, refrigerator, fully stocked kitchen, outdoor shower, and camping basics. You can also choose from add-ons like an optional toilet, bike rack, or rooftop tent

A major perk of this campervan rental is they are designed for all 4-season camping, so you can stay warm and cozy even in the coldest of temps. Rental rates start at under $59/day for their Micro Campervans and $135/day and up for their Sprinter models, and they have a 3-day minimum. Oh, and they also allow dogs at no extra charge!

GoCamp Campervans

• Rental locations: All across the US by owner

GoCamp is a peer-to-peer camper van rental platform that enables van owners to earn extra income by renting out their camper vans and gives renters an opportunity to experience #vanlife without having to purchase a van of their own. Their fleet features only the best camper vans with a wide variety of choices—from old-school Volkswagen Vanagons to newer Mercedes-Benz Sprinters, Storyteller Overland MODE4x4 adventure vans , and much more. Their campervans are road trip ready and located across the US. You can easily search for availability by location and dates on their website.

Boho Camper Vans Rentals

• Rental Locations: Phoenix, AZ and San Diego, CA
• Price: Starting at $209/night

Boho Camper Vans has a fleet of Dodge Promaster vans that they built out themselves, each designed with their unique boho flare. These camper vans are equipped with running water, an outdoor shower, stove, privacy curtains, bedding, cookware, camping chairs, and a portable cooler. Just minutes away from the Phoenix airport, you can live your boho dreams for around $209/day.

They are also starting to offer van rentals by owner out of San Diego, CA.

Lost Camper Van Rentals

• Rental Locations:  Los Angeles & San Francisco, CA
• Types of Camper Vans: Ford Transits and Dodge Minivans
• Price: starting at $39/night

Lost Camper is all about comfort and affordability. They offer Ford Transit rentals and a variety of Dodge Minivan rentals starting at $39/day, making this a good budget camper van rental company. All their campervan rentals include unlimited miles in their daily rates, as well as bedding, kitchen kits, and basic camping equipment like a table and chairs. Most of their vans have sinks and awnings (be sure to check the specific model) and all have an inside double bed, dining table, privacy curtains, and a cooler at minimum (some have refrigerators).

Trekker Vans Ford Transit Rentals

• Rental Locations: San Francisco and Los Angeles, CA
• Type of camper vans: Ford Transits
• Price: starting at $99/night

Trekker Vans prides itself on being a bootstrapped, locally owned and operated business. The owners are avid outdoors people, so they’re always happy to help you plan your adventure. 

All their camper van rentals are Ford Transits equipped with bedding, curtains, cookware, stove, refrigerator, sink with running water, camping chairs, and a table. The dinette transforms into a queen-size bed that sleeps 2-3 people, and if you need room for more, they’ll add on a rooftop tent. Depending on your party size, you can customize your seating to accommodate 2 or 4 people.

Pricing starts at $99/night with a minimum of three nights. During the high season, the prices will be about twice as much. If you’re looking for a San Francisco camper van rental company right near the airport, this is a great choice.

Ondevan Campervan Rentals

• Rental Locations: Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando, FL
• Type of camper vans: Dodge Promaster and Ford E-350 camper vans

Ondevan Campervan is another locally-owned company with locations in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando, Florida. It’s named after the Spanish phrase, “¿A dónde van?”, which means “Where are you going?” because the owners love to travel like we do, and wanted the namesake to inspire others.

Ondevan campervan rentals are fully stocked with a stove, cooler, cookware, bedding, curtains, chairs, and a table. The rental fleet has Dodge Promasters and Ford E-350s to select from. Daily rental rates start at $59 per night depending on the vehicle. Plus, they have an online road trip map made by fellow travelers with information on where to find showers and campsites.

Basecamper Van Rentals

• Rental Location: Salt Lake City, UT
• Type of camper vans: Dodge Promasters and Chevy Express camper vans
• Price: starting at $109/night

Basecamper Vans is a campervan rental company based in Salt Lake City, Utah. They’ve got several vans in their fleet including a Dodge Promaster 2500, Dodge Promaster City, and Chevy Express camper vans. Their vans sleep 2-4 with options to add on a rooftop tent. Daily rental rates start at $109/night. All their vans are set up with cookware, refrigerator, stove, bedding, and camp chairs.

Voyager Campervans Rentals

• Rental Locations: Minneapolis MN
• Type of camper vans: Dodge Promaster

Voyager Campervans is based in Minneapolis Minnesota making it a great camper van rental company option for outdoor adventures in the state including to the Boundary Waters . Their Dodge Promaster City camper van rentals are compact and equipped with linens, cooking utensils, and cooking fuel. The daily rental rates start at $59 per night for a 2-person campervan rental and $159 per night for a 4-person camper van rental. They have a 2-5 day minimum depending on the season.

Rocky Mountain Campervans Rentals

• Rental Locations: Denver, CO and Las Vegas, NV
• Type of camper vans: Dodge Promaster pop-top campers, VW Vanagons, and Eurovans
• Price: starting at $145/night

Another family-owned and operated business, Rocky Mountain Campervans rents luxury conversion vans and vintage Volkswagen vans. The luxury campervan rentals are Dodge Promaster pop-top campers that sleep 5 and have a toilet and a full kitchen. If you’re looking for something with a vintage feel, they offer Volkswagen Vanagons and Eurovans for rent. These vans sleep 4 and have a stove, small refrigerator, and sink.

All of their camper van rentals are stocked with bedding, cookware, and a number of camping accessories to make your trip more enjoyable. Some of the vehicles are 4-season ready. Daily rental rates start at $145 per night and they sometimes offer one-way specials.

Tierra Traveler

• Rental Locations: Bozeman and Livingston, MT
• Type of camper vans: Mercedes Sprinter camper vans
• Price: starting at $300/night

Tierra Traveler offers Mercedes-Benz Sprinter campervan rentals outfitted with luxury amenities for maximum comfort. With two locations in Montana, they’re perfectly positioned for exploring Yellowstone, Grand Teton , and Glacier National Parks.

Their vans have a queen size bed, Dometic fridge, are stocked with all the camping essentials, and are ready for all four seasons with a propane heater and digital thermostat. Rates start at $300 per night and they have a 3-night minimum during summer and fall.

Vander Outdoors

• Rental Locations:  Washington, DC and Alexandria, Virginia
• Type of camper vans: Dodge Ram Promaster and Dodge Minivans

Vander Outdoors , a locally owned campervan rental company in the DC area, includes a fleet of 2- and 4-passenger camper vans, all under 18 feet long for stress-free driving, easy parking, and great fuel economy over 25mpg.  All of their vans come fully equipped with a stove, sink, fridge, cookware, bedding, and basic camping gear. 

Prices start at $99 per night and they have a 2-night minimum in the low season and a 3-night minimum in the high season. These campervans are great for exploring out through the Shenandoah Valley, down the Blue Ridge Parkway, or along the Atlantic coast from Acadia National Park in Maine to the Outer Banks in North Carolina.

Vegas Campers

• Rental Locations: Las Vegas, NV
• Type of camper vans: Dodge Ram camper vans

Vegas Campers offers micro campers that sleep and seat up to two people that are perfect for Southwest road trips. Their vans get incredible gas mileage in comparison to larger RVs, are much easier to handle on the road, and come fully stocked with sleeping bags, linens, a stove, sink, refrigerator, couch/bed, outdoor shower, a solar powered electronics charging station, all sorts of lighting, dishes, cookware, and more.

The team provides online instructional videos which means you don’t waste time any time on the ground… you’ll be able to “grab the keys and go” because you will already know how everything works. They have a 3-night minimum (though they allow 2 nights at the same rate as 3) and prices start at $99 per night.

Tips for Planning a Road Trip in your Camper Van Rental

We have tons of free resources on our site to help you plan the ultimate road trip in your rental camper van. Check out these guides to get started:

• How to Save Money on a Road Trip
• How To Find Free Campsites
• 65 Must-Have Road Trip Essentials
• How to Get WiFi on the Road
• Solo Road Trip Planning Guide
• Van Life 101: How-To Guide for Living in a Van
• 15 Must-Have Van Life Apps
• Van Life Clothing Packing Checklist
• Van Life Essentials

Have you rented a campervan from any of these camper van rental companies or do you plan to? Let us know in the comments below!

With two decades of hiking and seven years of van life under her belt, Kristen has dedicated her life to helping people experience the positive effects of nature. As a pioneer in the outdoor blogging space, she founded Bearfoot Theory in 2014 and has since authored more than 350 blog posts about outdoor travel, hiking, camping, and van life. Her work has been featured in National Geographic, Outside Magazine, and Backpacker, and when she’s not on the road, she lives in Park City, Utah with her partner Ryan, their son, and two adventure pups.

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58 Comments

CamperVanGuy will outfit you with the van and gear if starting your trip in the Los Angeles area.

Thanks, Jody! We weren’t aware of CamperVanGuy, looks like a neat company for those starting in LA! Thanks for posting.

Wow I didn’t know there were so many good options! I’m hoping to do a US Road trip sometime next year, and can’t wait to explore a bit more of my own country

Check out Simple Campers in the SF Bay Area for camper vans that offer a variety of amenities. Including, unlimited mileage, one way rentals, pop tops, wifi, and more.

Thanks for the tip, Mav!

A great campervan alternative we found is Pacific Overlander (www.pacificoverlander.com). Their vehicles are totally tricked out and got us through the southwest without having to think about campsite reservations at all. Opened up a whole new way to do our road trips. Highly recommended!

Great to hear! Thanks for the rec!

Great post, Kim! Thanks for sharing. Looks like you might need a bay area company on this list 😉 I recently launched Outervan, a handcrafted campervan rental company.

Hey Lindsey! Thanks so much for reaching out. Drop me an email @ [email protected] with more details about Outervan.

your idea for adventure in campervan is great. campervan is famous for long road trip with other drinking and eating services. i really like this because you talk about adventure.

This is to say that it was really-really well and truly nice to read such kind of posts. You have to say that it should be continue to posts the blogs like this. Thanks

I am looking to rent for a minimum of 6 months; do you know which companies may provide the best rates for More long term ventures? I am primarily concerned with finding comfort at a low price. LOst camper appears to Ben a good option. Was wondering if you knew of any companies specifically geared towards this end.

Many campervan and RV rental companies will offer discounts for long-term rentals. I recommend reaching out to some companies and asking what discounts they can offer you for a 6+ month rental.

Anything in colorado springs?

Not entirely sure – I’d recommend doing a google search or trying Outdoorsy. There are definitely campervan rental companies elsewhere in Colorado including Denver if you aren’t able to find anything in Colorado Springs. Good luck!

Anything in St. Louis?

Hmmm… not sure!

Would like to take aroad trip in April 2021 from Texas to Las Vegas, need help in finding a company to rent camper van in my area

I recommend doing a quick google search for campervans in your area to see what comes up!

Any suggestion for area of Boston?

Not sure about the Boston area. A quick Google search might turn up something!

Great article, thanks for all these recommendations!!

Travellers Autobarn in Los Angeles,Las Vegas, and Bay Area! Unlimited miles included!

I’m trying to find a one way Class B rental starting in either Los Angeles or Phoenix and ending up near Glacier National Park in Montana – having a hard time finding a company that has a drop off point near Glacier

Nee to this Camper Van life! Intrigued and ready to take to the next level. Can someone recommend a good place to start as a beginner? I would love to learn, and be aware of “I wish I woulda known?” questions. Lucy!

Hi Lucy – we have a ton of resources and blog posts on Van Life how-tos. Check out our Van Life Course homepage . Our Van Life 101 guide also answers a lot of questions for people just starting out.

Great list but you HAVE to not forget the South and specifically sCAMPervan in Atlanta, Georgia and Asheville, North Carolina. What an original and unique brand and collection of vans to rent loaded with all the goods and necessities as well as rooftop tents. scampervan.com

Thanks for that tip, Jonathan, we’ll look into adding them!

Hello! I’m flying into Reno and I’m looking for a camper van such as these, anyone know of a location near Reno/Lake Tahoe? Thanks, much appreciated ☺️

Vancation.com has 3 or 4 campervan rentals in Reno!

Looking to rent a camper van to travel from around Dallas Texas to Southern Florida. Any recommendations?

Hmm, not familiar with the Dallas area. Maybe someone else can chime in!

I have a Thor Tellaro pop top pro master class b. I live in Idaho. I am hoping to rent it out for winter (late Fall to early Spring) in the Southwest USA.

How might I find a company to manage the rental for me?

Check out the company Outdoorsy

Looking for a Campervan like VW, Dodge or Chevy for 2 adults & 1 baby. Pick up and return should be Los Angeles. Any reccommandations?

Would it be cheapest to rent a cargo van from Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, or some other company for a few weeks and turn it into a temporary camper?

You can always buy an inflatable mattress, manual pump, camping stove, styrofoam cooler, cheap pillow, and maybe some cheap black out material that you can tape to the windows at night.

When done, you can mail the camping stove (minus the fuel), mattress, the pump, and tape back to your residence.

Hi Rob, I think many people like the ease & luxuries that come with renting an already built-out van, but your idea is definitely a possibility. Another option to save money is to look at one-way campervan relocations – they are usually last minute and you have to find your way home, but one of our team members has traveled this way before and loved it.

Don’t forget vancation.com, the newest campervan rental marketplace. Zero owner service fees if you join early and the best feature set to manage your listing.

Thanks for the tip!

Thanks! Appreciate the research and information on van rentals that covers a good chunk of the country

It’s nice to see these resources are available, but there are none for where I live. Not much in the way for Missouri I guess, and having lived here 95% of my life so far, I can say that the landscape is beautiful here (the people not so much lol). Maybe someday there will be a van rental place available here, but I’m not going to hold my breath.

I’d recommend checking out Outdoorsy, RV Share, or Campanda since those are all rentals by owner and can be located anywhere in the US (like Airbnb for van rentals). Best of luck!

I’m sad to see Dallas/Ft Worth area not served on your list. Any ideas? Thanks,

Hi Melissa, I’m unfamiliar with any rental companies in that area, but I’d recommend checking out Outdoorsy, RV Share, or Campanda since those are all rentals by owner and can be located anywhere in the US (like Airbnb for van rentals). Best of luck!

The best resource. Thank you.

Glad you found it helpful, Eugene!

So stoked to have found your site! You rock!

Thanks Stacy!!

Wow you missed Florida Oldscool Campers. Our family loved our trip!

Thanks for the recommendation – we’ll have to check them out!

Hi Sonya! Keys Westys has the largest inventory of Westfalias on the East Coast, including Florida!

This is a great resource, thank you! Is appears that “Escape’ is the only company that operates one-way small camper vans coast to coast — in my case, I need northeast to northwest? Is that true as far as you know? Thank you.

Hi Pam, glad you found this helpful! We’ve never personally used these rental companies (all of our team owns campervans) so I can’t speak to the one-way coast-to-coast rentals, unfortunately. Good luck with your search!

You should add Keys Westys VW Camper Van Rental in the Florida Keys to this article! Keys Westys offers a fleet of vintage and classic VW Westaflia “Westys” for rent for adventures up and down the iconic 113-mile Overseas Highway. The iconic, “instagrammable” pop-top campers sleep four people on two levels, have on-board refrigerators and even slide-out camping air conditioners to deliver the glam to this level of glamping! Vintage ‘Westys’ of Keys Westys include cute models like the 1971 Westy “Hey Mickey” and the 1978 Westy “Key Lime Pie” to the 1980 Westy “Cotton Candy” and 1982 Westy “Cookie Monster”. Several are spotlighted on the Keys Westys website, as well as fan sites online. Keys Westys also offers several more modern VW Eurovan Westfalias, in a rainbow of colors, also sporting refrigerators and slide-out camping air conditioners. Each rental also includes a linens bin of sheets, towels, pillows and pillow cases for four persons – as well as a camping bin of incidentals for cooking and camping, including cutlery, plates, cups and more. Keys Westys’ rental rates start at $130 per day, and renters can add on things like inflatable paddle boards, camp sites at several award-winning state parks from the company’s inventory of its self-guided tour and more. Airport pick up and drop off to Keys Westys’ Islamorada location is also available. And, if you are driving down to pick up your Westy, you can leave your car at their gated facility while you adventure – at no additional charge. Keys Westys has a rich history in the Keys, and offers a broad range of information to plan your Florida Keys adventure, including snorkeling, to nature trails, “Campgrounds We Love” and more. Keys Westys can be found online or be reached at 786-326-6763.

Thanks for the info, Michelle!

Wanted to say thanks for featuring Boho Camper Vans as one of your go-to camper van companies! We’re grateful!

Just wanted to say that things have changed a lot for us in the past couple of years, and we’re currently running a fleet of twelve 2021-2022 Promasters (we found those old Econolines were just a liiiiiittle too tight). Our designs have evolved and our vans have grown but we’ve maintained that same “cabin on wheels” kind of feel.

Hi Ryan, thanks for letting us know! Do you have any updated photos and a blurb that we can update our post with? Please email me at contact[at] bearfoottheory.com

Wandervans is also a great option for affordable van rentals or builds. Locations in Boise, Spokane/CDA, Salt Lake City, San Francisco, Vegas, Phoenix, and Duluth. Great article, thanks for getting all of these options out there!

Every product is independently selected by editors. Things you buy through our links may earn Vox Media a commission.

5 Affordable Camper Vans for Sale

This story was originally published by Curbed before it joined New York Magazine. You can visit the Curbed archive at  archive.curbed.com  to read all stories published before October 2020.

If  Instagram  has anything to say about it,  #VanLife  isn’t going anywhere any time soon. And that’s fine by us, especially because we  can’t get enough  of all things  camper-related .  Love campers and trailers?  Come join our community group .

However, if  camper vans  have any drawbacks compared to  teardrop trailers ,  vintage campers , or your  run-of-the-mill travel trailers , it’s the fact that they can be expensive.  Custom conversion companies  are rolling out  gorgeous   rigs , but some of them cost  over $200,000  and vans by industry heavyweights like  Airstream  and  Winnebago  both cost  over $130,000 . That’s out of reach for most customers and may seem downright ridiculous to some.

Fortunately, there’s a new class of camper companies looking to deliver the van life experience but at a fraction of the cost. You’ll have to sacrifice a few things — like dreams of a  4x4 Mercedes Sprinter — but these five companies show that you can have a sweet camper van for under $70,000 — van and conversion included. This is van life on a budget.

Off Grid Adventure Vans

Cost:  With 2020 Ram Promasters starting around  $30,000  before options, the cost of a brand new van with Off Grid Adventure runs from about $67,000 to $70,000.

Key Features:  We know $70,000 may not seem affordable to most, but Off Grid Adventure Vans aims to produce a more environmentally sustainable, budget-conscious van, and these vans are much cheaper than most  conversion van companies .

The company offers four different layouts. The  Rambler — which costs $36,500 for the buildout — is their most popular layout on the 159-inch Ram Promaster. In this model a full-size Murphy bed sleeps two and folds up when not in use. In its place are two long bench seats with a removable table in between for working or dining. Overhead cabinets and built-in cabinetry provide storage, while a galley kitchen includes a refrigerator, butcher block countertop, stove, and sink. Interested? Head  over here  to read about their other layouts.

The  Free Bird

Cost:  Starting at $38,100 for van and conversion

Key Features:  Built on the Nissan NV200 cargo van, the Free Bird uses a convenient slide-rail system that makes switching from camper van to cargo hauler a cinch. The slide-and-glide system allows all of the components to be installed or removed in about two minutes.

The main cabin is a series of boxes that hold everything you need to camp. The kitchen is accessed from the rear in a slide-out kitchen box; it consists of a portable butane stove and two storage drawers. Another large storage box behind the front two seats houses a deep cycle auxiliary battery that powers the dimmable LED lighting, two USB power ports, and the 31-quart fridge. Head  over here  for more info.

Boho Camper Vans

Cost:  The price of the buildout is $36,500, and vans will cost between $30,000-$37,000.

Key Features:  Founded as a  camper van rental company , Phoenix-based Boho Camper Vans has worked with different types of vans — like  this one-ton commercial passenger van — to outfit them with a streamlined and downright Instagrammable look. With their vans in demand due to coronavirus, Boho Camper Vans have focused all production on the Boho Tall, with wood-focused interiors on a RAM 2500 High Roof 159. Each build out includes 340 watts of solar, an electric dual zone fridge, a portable toilet, and storage cabinets. The bed is located in the rear with a garage below, and there’s a small pull-out table in the sitting area. While the floorplan comes stock, you can customize the tile, floor color, interior base paint color, stain options, bedding, and curtains.

Find out more details,  this way , and see examples of their builds  here  and  here .

Oasis Campervans

Cost:  A full van conversion is  $8,500 , although design changes can raise or lower the price

Key Factors:  Unlike other small camper van companies that use  Nissan  or  Mercedes vans , Colorado-based  Oasis Campervans  converts the all-wheel-drive Toyota Sienna minivan into mobile homes-on-the-go. Oasis Campervan conversions include a main living room with pull-out drawers, a finished floor, and a moveable table for working. One of the most innovative parts of the design is a foldable chair that transforms into part of the bed with a helpful back rest, and when in the sleeping position the full-size mattress can hold one or two people comfortably.

Similar to a  teardrop trailer , the van’s rear area accesses a small kitchen with a sink, running water, drawers and shelves, and a large countertop. Dinner prep is made easy thanks to a fold-up kitchen table, and in certain van layouts, the kitchen can also fit a slide-out drawer that fits a cooler or refrigerator. Head  over here  for more.

Cost:  Core build packages start around  $29,000 , plus the cost of the Promaster van — which starts around $30,000.

Key Features:  San Francisco-based  Glampervan  wants to capitalize on this trend by building clients a “multi-use vehicle” that can take you on vacation, work as a mobile office, and still haul things like a truck. Using a 136-inch wheelbase high-roof Ram Promaster (the medium-sized model in the Ram lineup) Glampervan maximizes space with a build customized for two people.

You enter the van in a galley kitchen loaded with cabinet and storage space. In the back, a Murphy bed sits on the passenger wall and allows space to haul gear or supplies whenever you’re not resting. When in the sleeping position, the bed is just shy of a queen size, and overhead cabinets provide more storage. Read more,  this way .

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17 Best Camper Vans 2024 (New Class B RVs Available!)

Our shortlist for the best camper vans in 2024, including long-time favorites, new models, and european models now available in the u.s..

• 1 Our shortlist for the Best Camper Vans in 2024, including long-time favorites, new models, and European models now available in the U.S.!
• 2 How Do You Choose the Right Camper Van?
• 3.1 1. Grech STRADA-ion
• 3.2.1 The No Wood RV = Mold & Mildew Resistant (Video)
• 3.3 3. Roadtrek Pivot
• 3.4 4. Roadtrek Chase
• 3.5 5. Coachmen Galleria Li3
• 3.6 6. Coachmen Beyond
• 3.7 7. Coachmen Nova
• 3.8 8. Thor Tellaro
• 3.9 9. 4X4 Tiffin GH1
• 3.10 10. Winnebago Travato
• 3.11 11. Winnebago Revel
• 3.12 12. Pleasure-Way Plateau FL
• 3.13 13. Airstream Rangeline
• 3.14 14. Airstream Interstate
• 3.15 15. Entegra Coach Launch
• 3.16 16. Westfalia Wave
• 3.17 17. The Advanced RV Van
• 4 Your Vote for the Best Camper Vans
• 5 Our RV Buying Secrets

If you’re looking for the freedom and sense of adventure that a motorhome provides but want the mobility of a car, then you should consider a camper van.

Camper vans are an attractive option given that they are compact, rugged, and can be as equipped as you need. You can go pretty much anywhere a car can go and get better gas mileage than bigger RVs.

They come in a variety of sizes and configurations depending on their purpose.

Some are designed for weekend travel, while others can accommodate simple full-time living. Some are for campgrounds, and others for boondocking. Some are cheap, and others are shockingly expensive!

(Curious what a $500,000 camper van entails? See at the end of the list!)

How Do You Choose the Right Camper Van?

Like other RV classes, there are many options for camper vans on the market. Perhaps too many. That's why we're highlighting the best ones.

Choosing the best camper van for you depends on your travel plans, as well as the following considerations:

• Your Budget
• Size to accommodate your gear and passengers
• Drivetrain (2-wheel, 4-wheel, or all-wheel drive)
• Diesel vs. gasoline
• Service history and mileage (if buying used)
• Weekender vs. Fulltime

The following list of 2024 best camper vans gives you a range of the above features.

The Best Camper Vans 2024

Based on our experience, many visits to RV shows, and other campers, we’ve compiled a list of the best camper vans for you to check out this year.

You'll find camper vans that are tried-and-true, as well as new models that are catching the attention of RVers everywhere.

The following are listed in no particular order, as the “best” depends on your individual needs and wants. But this shortlist will help you determine which camper van is best for you.

1. Grech STRADA-ion

The STRADA-ion is Grech's flagship Sprinter Motorhome. It's a luxury Class B with an advanced lithium-ion battery energy storage system. It provides a total of 1,260Ah, which will run the AC for up to 12 hours on battery power alone.

It has a 280-amp alternator that charges the lithium-ion batteries from idle , meaning you don't have to drive to charge your batteries. The battery management software pairs with its Fire Fly control system, which you can operate from your phone.

The 2024 Grech RV Strada is built on the all-new 2023 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter AWD. with air suspension.

It's 24 feet long and sleeps 2. It comes in 2 floorplans, the Lounge Plan and Tour Plan. The biggest difference between the two is that the Lounge Plan seats up to 9, whereas the Tour Plan “only” seats 7. I put “only” in quotations because 7 is a lot of people!

And all seats have seat belts! Many campervans can “seat” several guests, but only provide seatbelts for 2-4. The Stradia provides a safer alternative for all of your travel companions.

MSRP starts at $259,900.

2. Embassy RV Dolphin SL

The Embassy Dolphin SL is known for its revolutionary floor plan that allows for two separate sleeping areas . That means a person can stay awake or wake up early and not disturb the person who's sleeping!

This separate sleeping arrangement also makes it popular among single parents, traveling friends, and traveling business partners. And, speaking of work, the rear bed platform converts into a table-height desk.

It's 22'2″ long and built on a Ford Transit Chassis. The kitchen and bathroom separate the front living/sleeping area from the rear bedroom. Your usable space can be extended with an optional rear porch with tent.

The Dolphin SL has a lithium-ion battery system. It doesn't come with solar, but the system can be fully charged by the engine. You can add a battery management system with Bluetooth™ connectivity as an option.

Unfortunately, Embassy doesn't list MSRP, but it likely starts in the $150,000 – $175,000 range. So, you have to call to get a quote for your desired floorplan and options.

The No Wood RV = Mold & Mildew Resistant (Video)

BUT! Perhaps the most NOTABLE FEATURE of the latest Dolphin SL RV Model is that it's a No Wood RV. It's made of composite material that makes it mold and mildew-resistant .

That's excellent news for RVers in wet or tropical climates. (Hear that Florida snowbirds?!)

3. Roadtrek Pivot

The Roadtrek Pivot is 20'9″ long and built on a RAM Promaster 3500 chassis. It comfortably seats 4 and sleeps 3 with an optional folding mattress.

It has two different bed setup options: two twin beds or one king bed. The optional single folding mattress can be laid across the front two captain seats.

A popular feature is its Duo Space bathroom , which comes standard. It has a pivoting wall that creates a separate showering area and keeps the other amenities dry. They market it as the “driest wet bath ever.”

It also has an outdoor shower and rear access doors. So, you can open the side sliding door and rear swing doors for an open indoor/outdoor setup.

It comes standard with a 13′ power awning, 600 AMP lithium battery system, generator, 300-watt solar panels, and 12/100 V power inverter.

MSRP starts at $183,386.

4. Roadtrek Chase

We've owned a couple Roadtreks, so it's no surprise another model makes it on the list. The Chase is one of the most affordable on the list with it's simple, efficient design.

The Chase is 20'9″ and built on the Ram ProMaster 3500 extended van chassis. It can seat 4 and sleep 3 with an optional folding mattress that lays over the cab seats.

It has a 300W solar panel and 600 amp lithium battery system. Some other nice standard features include a 13′ power awning, 11,000 BTU A/C, and heavy duty magnetic bug screens for rear and passenger sliding door.

MSRP is $176,386.

5. Coachmen Galleria Li3

The Coachmen Galleria is 24'3″ long and built on the award-winning 3500 Mercedes Sprinter extended platform. We toured it and took the above picture at the Florida RV SuperShow.

It has four floorplan options , including one option (24A) with a fixed bed and power incline storage underneath. Its kitchen is on the bigger side, including a 7.3 cu. ft. refrigerator with pull-out freezer in the 24A and 24FL floor plans.

Standard features include an Onan quiet generator, 330W solar, and a standard 330 Ah AGM battery with 2,000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter.

But you'll notice that we specifically listed the Galleria Li3 . This is an upgraded option for a 630 Ah Li3 lithium battery that we think makes it one of the best camper vans. (The model pictured above is an Li3).

Coachmen doesn't list the MSRP, but it likely starts around $250,000. You'd need to contact a local dealer to learn more.

6. Coachmen Beyond

Coachment earns another spot on the list with the Beyond. We toured it and took the above picture at the Florida RV SuperShow.

At 22'2 “, it's two feet shorter and gets 1 mpg better gas mileage than the Galleria. It's built on the Ford Transit AWD chassis with a 3.5L EcoBoost engine and 10-speed transmission.

The Beyond has three floorplan options , including the 22RB that has a rear wet bath with a flip-down sink and shower. This roomier bathroom makes it a popular choice.

Some standard features include a 2.8KW gasoline generator, 195W solar panel with dual charging capabilities, and a 2,000W Xantrex inverter with auto-gen start. Like the Galleria, you can opt for the Li3 Lithium Battery System, among other nice upgrade options.

Coachmen doesn't list the MSRP, but it likely starts around $200,000. You'd need to contact a local dealer to learn more.

7. Coachmen Nova

That's right, Coachmen has a third model that makes our list of the best camper vans. The Nova (as the name implies) is the newest member of the Coachmen Class B family.

The Nova is 20'11” and has three floorplans to choose from. Like the Beyond, it has a floorplan option with a rear bath (20RB).

It's built on the Ram Pro Master 3500 extended Chassis with a 3.6L V6 engine. It comes standard with 220W solar and 3 Group 31 115AH AGM Batteries.

Like the other two Coachmen on this list, you can opt for the Li3 Lithium Battery System. A unique option the Nova offers is a Pop Top with a 190W solar panel, skylight, and Thule awning.

Again, Coachmen doesn't list the MSRP, but it likely starts around $175,000. You'd need to contact a local dealer to learn more.

8. Thor Tellaro

The Tellaro from Thor is one of the most affordable camper vans on this list. It features many of the same functionalities as their Sequence model, except the Tellaro is available with a pop-top.

The Tellaro is 21′ long, and without the pop-top, sleeps two people. It's available in 4 floorplans, so you have lots of choices with this one. We particularly like the 20A floorplan that gives you a sky bunk option in addition to a rear bedroom.

Standard equipment includes a Thule bike rack, 190-watt solar panel, dual 100-Ah lithium house batteries, power awning, and a power-saver AC system. This model features the same generator you’ll find in the Solis, as well as a similar bathroom.

The Tellaro, however, does have a few advantages over the Winnebago Solis. For example, it has a bigger dining table and refrigerator, extended storage space, and a powered awning.

Tellaro MSRP starts at $140,560, depending on the floorplan you select. The 20A floorplan that we like starts at $144,760.

9. 4X4 Tiffin GH1

The GH1 is the new Tiffin 4×4 AWD vehicle, replacing the Tiffin Cahaba. It's a small but mighty camper van that seats 4 and sleeps 2.

The overall length is 19'6″ long and built on a Mercedes 2500 Sprinter chassis with a 3.0L turbo diesel engine.

It has on-board 200-watt solar panel, and a 540-Amp Hour Lithium-Ion Battery Kit with a 3,000-Watt Inverter. It's pre-wired for optional Starlink Pro and its 15,000-BTU A/C has soft-start and WirelessCapability.

The sleek design includes all-metal running boards, a fixed and side-mounted roof access ladder, and a powered awning. Another cool feature is its on-board air compressor.

Tiffin doesn't list the MSRP, but it likely starts around $180,000. Contact a local dealer to learn more.

10. Winnebago Travato

The Travato from Winnebago is one of the top-selling camper vans in North America. At 21’, it sleeps 2 and seats 4.

It has 2 floorplans, one with a single large Murphy+bed (59G) and the other with two single beds (59K). Both floor plans are available in either AGM batteries/generator or lithium with a second under-the-hood alternator (59GL and 59KL).

It's built on a Ram ProMaster chassis with a 3.6L V6 engine.

Roof and sidewall insulation, heated tanks and available dual-pane acrylic insulated windows extend the camping season. We love winter camping, and even wrote an ebook for those who want to give it a try.

The Travato features a Pure 3  Advanced Energy System that provides more than 9,000 useable watt-hours of power. You can boost that to over 12,000 with their optional 4-module energy pack.

The 4 floorplans range from $175,292 to $210,515.

Winnebago also offers a 4-sleeper floorplan with the Solix 59PX . It starts at $152,169.

11. Winnebago Revel

Winnebao earns another spot on the list with the Revel. It's now built on the AWD Mercedes-Benz® Sprinter chassis with a 4 cylinder turbo diesel engine.

The Revel is 19'7″, sleeps 2, and seats 4. It comes with one 320-amp hour LiFePO 4  battery you can monitor via Bluetooth. ®  Plus, a quiet, Hydronic Heating System.

The Revel's most notable feature that sets it apart from others is its power lift bed with large gear garage below. It gives you extra gear storage without sacrificing sleeping space. We also like the fold-down outside table.

MSRP is $223,495, which we think is reasonable for this compact RV that fits a lot of gear.

12. Pleasure-Way Plateau FL

The Plateau FL is 22'9″ long and built on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500 van chassis. It has a 3.0L V6 BlueTEC diesel engine.

It has two separate living areas with an electric sofa that coverts to a queen bed in the back and a lounge area in the front. This setup allows two people to easily enjoy “Me Time” with separate TVs and sitting areas.

The front lounge also has a multifunctional workstation. And the gallery kitchen has more counterspace than you often see in camper vans.

The Plateau FL has Dual 100Ah lithium batteries, a 2000-watt pure-sine wave inverter, and an Onan generator.

MSRP is $204,750.

13. Airstream Rangeline

The Airstream Rangeline is 21′ long and is built on the RAM ProMaster 3500 chassis. It has a 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine.

It has a simple, efficient floorplan with a rear sleeping area for 2 and seat capacity for 4. You can expand the living and sleeping space with an optional pop-top.

It comes standard with a single 270Ah Deep Cycle Lithium Battle Born Battery (LiFePO4), 100 amp charger, a 2,000 watt power inverter, and a 200 watt solar panel.

It may not have as many bells and whistles as other camper vans, but it's very practical and comfortable. Plus, it's one of the most affordable options.

Pricing starts at $147,570.

14. Airstream Interstate

The Airstream Interstate comes in 6 models and two sizes: 19′ and 24′. You get lots of options, especially when it comes to how many people it can accommodate.

The 19-foot models sleep 2 and seat 4, but the 24-foot models can sleep two and seat up to 9 people! It's hard to go into detail about the features and floor plans, because you have so many options.

But Airstream lives up to its iconic name with all six models. So, they're worth checking out individually. The image above is the largest, most expensive of the bunch.

MSRP ranges from $178,640 to $246,351.

15. Entegra Coach Launch

The Entegra Coach Launch is 19'6″ long and is built on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 4×4 van chassis. It has a 2.0L 4-cylinder diesel engine.

The interior includes a generous garage space in the rear with a drop-down bed. It can sleep 2 and seat 3 in a small yet functional living area.

On the exterior, it has a fold-down exterior table, a double roof rack, and a moveable roof ladder. New for 2024, is its integrated Starlink Satellite Internet System.

It comes standard with a 48V 210Ah smart lithium battery that provides 10KWh of power. It also has a 3,500W inverter and 200W solar panels.

The Entegra Coach website has a Build & Price feature, which shows the basic MSRP at $246,375.

16. Westfalia Wave

Twenty years after leaving the American market, the Italian RV company, Westfalia, returns to our shores. Westfalia campers are best known for their pop-up roofs, but they are also introducing a brand-new model called the Wave .

The Wave is 20′-9″ on a Dodge Promaster chassis. It has a complete bathroom, kitchen, and versatile sleeping options for up to 6 people. Yes, this campervan can sleep up to six people!

Their patented convertible passenger seating flips down over the driver's area to create a third bed. That's in addition to the pop-top bed that's perfect for kids and the larger bed options in the back. Of course, 6 adults would be pushing it, but it's a great option for families with small kids or teens.

Other notable features include:

• Modern natural tones
• Rear, under-bed trunk that can fit mountain bikes
• Pass-through storage that can fit long gear, like paddle boards
• Cassette toilet in wet bath (yes, it has a shower!)
• Propane cooktop, microwave oven, and Vitrifrigo Refrigerator
• 600-amp hours of lithium batteries & 3,000-watt inverter
• Firefly tablet-style multiplex system

We got to tour it at this year's RV SuperShow in Tampa, and were impressed. They list two Florida RV dealers on their American website and include MSRP, so it seems like they are officially available*!

The non-pop top Wave MSRP is $156,627. The Wave Pop Top MSRP is $167,616.

*It's rather common at RV shows for European models to be showcased and promoted as “coming to America” without any substance backing that up. They attract a lot of hype at RV shows , but then you never see these RVs actually make it onto American roads.

So, it's reassuring that Westfalia already has an established and growing dealership network. Pro Tip: Be sure to ask about FIRM delivery dates. If the best they can offer is “available soon,” consider holding off.

17. The Advanced RV Van

Rounding out our list of the best Cass B RVs for 2022 are the custom vans built by Advanced RV of Willoughby, Ohio.

They are not for everyone because of the cost. They even clearly state in their FAQs that “an ARV will cost 2-4 times more than a factory-built, class B motorhome purchased from a dealer.” They're very possibly the most expensive campervan on the market.

These vans – built on the Mercedes Benz Sprinter chassis – are completely customized to the customer. Each one is built with features and a floor plan personally selected by the buyer after several days of planning with Advanced RV engineers and designers.

No two Advanced RV vans are alike, and each is named by the customer. From the time the order is submitted to the time it is delivered – usually a year-long process – it is referred to by that name and never a number. 

The vans typically have massive lithium battery power supplies, high-end, computer-controlled air suspension systems for smooth rides, handcrafted cabinetry, deluxe entertainment systems, and innovative components like recirculating water systems.

The vans start at about $340,000 and go up to around $500,000.

I told you these were not for everyone. But in a list of the best Class B RVs, Advanced RV has to be included. They truly are quality designs.

It is worth noting that they have Pre-Owned ARVs for sale on their website, as well. You don't get to fully customize it, but you do get a customized van at a better price.

Here's a video tour we did of the factory to give you an idea of the process.

Your Vote for the Best Camper Vans

We’d love to hear your opinions! Let us know in the comments which camper van you’d buy or already enjoy.

Our RV Buying Secrets

Next to your home, an RV is most likely the 2nd most expensive thing you'll ever purchase.

We get questions every day of other RVers wondering. “How do you buy a new or used RV?”

So we created a 75+-page downloadable digital guide to help you understand the nuances that come with purchasing an RV, where you can save thousands of dollars in the buying process, what the right questions are to ask dealers, what things to look out for, how to select the right unit, amenities, warranties, and so much more!

This ebook is designed to help make your purchase process as smooth as possible. And to teach you step-by-step exactly what to do so you can start your RV Lifestyle today!

Published on 2024-02-24

Mike Wendland is a multiple Emmy-award-winning Journalist, Podcaster, YouTuber, and Blogger, who has traveled with his wife, Jennifer, all over North America in an RV, sharing adventures and reviewing RV, Camping, Outdoor, Travel and Tech Gear for the past 12 years. They are leading industry experts in RV living and have written 18 travel books.

32 Responses to “17 Best Camper Vans 2024 (New Class B RVs Available!)”

April 02, 2024at2:05 am , judi ayam said:

Appreciate the recommendation. Let me try it out.

March 30, 2024at4:21 pm , scott huffman said:

These are all great but I am telling you I own a 1998 Chinook and it just blows all of these out of the water. Just a lot more room. 4 people can comfortably play cards around the resturant like booth and table. My advise is buy a mint one for 20k and spend 10k updating all the electronics. Only downside is I am 5-9 200lbs, not very big, but I have trouble wiping my butt in the little wet bath. Hey, I didn’t buy it for the pooper anyway but it is good enough. Just dont eat a lot of donuts.

February 03, 2024at7:57 am , Frank wright said:

Mike, I was surprised you did not have the Pleasureway Ontour 2.0 and 2.2 in your list. These are some of the most sought after vans in the country. I have an Ontour 2.2 and this coach is amazing. From the Ford eco boost engine to the large bathroom it is close to the perfect B. This doesn’t take into account the customer service Pleasureway is known for. I am 6ft 4in and about 280lbs and it is the only B van than is comfortable for someone my size.

January 26, 2024at3:44 am , Murray Levine said:

I own a Grech 2022 Turismo Ion RV and the Grech build is teriffic. All A1 construction. But you referred to the company as “Gretch.” There is no “T” in the name. The people at the factory are very friendly and they welcome you if you have any problems.

January 26, 2024at11:01 am , Team RV Lifestyle said:

Oh no – thank you for pointing out this typo! Team RV Lifestyle

January 25, 2024at11:07 am , Warren Gress said:

Great summary! I did notice you mentioned the Travato has 4 floor plans. They have 4 trim levels, but only a G and K floor plan, available in either AGM batteries/generator or lithium with a second under the hood alternator.

January 25, 2024at4:20 pm , Team RV Lifestyle said:

Great catch – we clarified the copy – thanks, Warren! Team RV Lifestyle

May 16, 2023at2:19 pm , Dede Bett said:

Just an FYI: The Pleasure-Way Plateau is on a 3500 Mercedes Benz Sprinter van, not a 2500.

We own a 2018 Pleasure-Way XLTS, the larger B+ van, they currently don’t make them (too bad, it’s great!) and we love it! We looked at several others and felt the quality of Pleasure-Way was better than some on your list that you’ve rated higher, but that’s our opinion.

May 17, 2023at4:41 pm , Team RV Lifestyle said:

Pleasure-Way makes a great van, for sure! Team RV Lifestyle

July 19, 2022at9:48 am , Michal Grupa said:

Great list! I recently did 2 road trips, 1 in a Winnebago Solis in the States and 1 in a brand new VW T6.1 California in Portugal. The ‘Winnie’ was pretty good but it’s a big sloppy thing, driving it just isn’t much fun and we had a bunch of issues with it form the start… Not Ideal…

The 2nd trip was much different. Portugal is incredible and I was blown away by the level of quality in the VW camper. The fit and finish was really nice and tight. If anyone is heading out that way check out the company, Siesta Campers, I think they’re really onto something special there. Enjoy the ride.

[Link deleted]

July 19, 2022at5:15 pm , Team RV Lifestyle said:

Thanks for sharing your experience ! Team RV Lifestyle

June 26, 2022at4:03 pm , The Luxury Camper Van Buying Guide | RV Lifestyle said:

[…] a more detailed look at the best camper vans in general (all ranges), check out this article: The Best Camper Vans. We compiled that list based on our experience and other campers we’ve gotten to […]

June 21, 2021at7:21 pm , Roger said:

Betty: We will work with you if you are located far away to help reduce your delivery cost — PLMK?

July 03, 2021at10:46 pm , Joel said:

Hi Roger, is this still available? Does it have a toilet? Thanks, Joel

July 10, 2021at11:06 pm , ROGER REINER said:

Yes, everything works, but the shower is not currently hooked up. That’s the way it was when we bought it, but we did have it checked out and it does work, but needs to be re-connected. We never needed it so have not done so yet.

June 15, 2021at2:48 am , Betty Brunson said:

Very interested in your van. Where are you located?

June 17, 2021at11:57 am , Roger said:

Western SD, near Rapid City, Sturgis, Mount Rushmore, etc.

February 15, 2021at10:11 am , ZX Macman said:

I understand the Winnebago Travato is the No. 1 selling camper van but you never mention it.

January 24, 2021at12:16 pm , alan schroepfer said:

Looking for a short 17′ solid high-top B motorhome like the old Roadtrek 170. Todays “short” advertised B’s .are at least 19′. Revel’s Mercedes is too expensive. I’ve called the major B manufacturers and as of January 2021 no USA builder plans to meet this market. Is there a European product like this being sold and available in the lower 48?

June 14, 2021at5:24 pm , ROGER REINER said:

We have a 1990 Ford E-250 fully self-contained. Shower works but is not hooked up. Few minor dings and repairs. We bought this as a basket case and then had nearly everything repaired so it all works fine now, I think. Has new Michelin tires, new computer, many other things. Microwave, fridge, TV, 2-burner stove, Onan 2800 generator, Comfortably sleeps 3 adults or maybe two adults, two children. Respond with ph# or email and I can provide pics and other details. We don’t need to sell but will as both of us are facing health issues. ~est. $20,000 or so.

June 14, 2021at5:42 pm , Roger said:

Forgot to mention this is a factory Ford 190 Falcon. Mileage is 99435. No leaks on vehicle or engine, trans, etc., all 3 new fuel pumps, both batteries replaced, tranny flushed, inverter plate replaced, full tune-up, manual awning works fine, AC/heater work good, plus several other minor things done and a few yet to be including a few cosmetic things. Currently winterized.

June 16, 2021at4:23 pm , ROGER REINER said:

Forgot to mention it has a heavy duty hitch as well. We debugged this a few years ago on a 3000 mile round trip to the Mojave desert in S. CA. — you can try to reach me at rushcard1 which is registered under yahoo.com using the at sign — the generator is actually a 2.8 KW Onan and looks new — thanks.

January 21, 2021at9:22 am , Maureen Collind said:

What about the Recon and Metris camper vans? How do you rate them?

January 19, 2021at12:41 pm , Mark said:

All units listed, except the Revel, have a Truma heating system onboard. Focus on reliability and comfort from these OEMs is clear from their selection of systems on board.

January 19, 2021at9:30 am , Doug said:

No AC or generator on the Solis 59P

January 19, 2021at2:34 pm , Amy Delpiere said:

You’re right Doug. I noticed that also. My understanding is that you need to upgrade to the PX to get enough space on the roof for an AC unit. The small bathroom size may be a deal-breaker for my husband, but I still like the Solis a lot.

January 19, 2021at9:02 am , Anne said:

After many years of searching, I found the Panoramic- built in Quebec Canada. As soon as I walked in, I knew it was the one. Quality is better than all others, in my opinion.

January 19, 2021at8:50 am , richard said:

Coach House Arriva. Same size as the Airstream, equally high-end finishes, and a dry bath!

January 19, 2021at8:49 am , Marsha said:

So sad you don’t even mention Roadtrek anymore….

January 19, 2021at12:34 pm , Pamela Forman said:

It is, isn’t it. Probably sorry they don’t have one anymore!

July 18, 2021at2:31 pm , Joni said:

Since I have one. Roadtrek would probably be my number 1 choice.

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In today’s post, we want to share our tips for traveling by van for the first time.

We have learned some of them based on trial and error, and others, you may find quite obvious, but I’m sure they will be useful to you on your road trips.

After two years of traveling by van, having changed our first van, a long Renault Trafic, to our current, more professional Citroen Jumper, we have covered van travel since the start of this blog. Trust us; we’ve picked up a thing or two.

Read: What to take on a camper van trip .

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After the coronavirus, for travel lovers, van travel is one of the best ways to travel. It allows you to continue to know the world while maintaining “social distancing” until everything returns a little more to normal.

Traveling in a camper van is a wonderful way to experience the freedom of the open road while having the comforts of home at your fingertips. Here are 10 tips for those embarking on their first camper van adventure:

• Research and Plan Ahead: Before hitting the road, research your route and potential campsites. Some popular spots require reservations, especially during peak travel times.
• Know Your Vehicle: Familiarize yourself with the camper van’s dimensions, controls, and systems. Understand how to operate the water, electrical, and propane systems. It’s also crucial to know the height of your van to avoid low bridges or overhangs.
• Pack Smart: Space is limited, so prioritize essentials and pack versatile items. Consider collapsible or multi-purpose tools and containers. Think about what you’ll truly need, and remember that you can always buy supplies along the way.
• Safety First: Have a basic toolkit, a first-aid kit, and essential safety equipment like a fire extinguisher. It’s also wise to have a carbon monoxide detector if your camper van doesn’t already have one.
• Stay Organized: Given the limited space, keeping things tidy is vital. Assign specific places for items and keep them there consistently. This will also make setting up and breaking camp much more efficient.
• Practice Driving: Before embarking on long journeys, take the camper van for a spin in your local area. Get used to its size, turning radius, and braking distance. Practice parking and backing up in open areas.
• Mind Your Power and Water: Be aware of your battery levels, especially if you’re not plugged into a campsite. The same goes for water; if you’re not connected to a water source, ration accordingly. Invest in a solar panel if you plan to be off-grid often.
• Respect Campsite Etiquette: Be a considerate neighbor. Keep noise levels down, especially during quiet hours, and always leave your campsite cleaner than you found it.
• Stay Flexible: One of the joys of traveling in a camper van is the freedom to explore. However, unexpected things can happen, like road closures, bad weather, or full campsites. Be prepared to adjust your plans as needed.
• Engage with the Community: The camper van community is vast and supportive. Don’t be shy to ask for advice or share experiences. Websites, forums, and social media groups can be great resources for tips, campsite recommendations, and camaraderie.

Remember, every journey in a camper van is a learning experience. Embrace the adventure, be patient with yourself, and most importantly, enjoy the ride!

Rent or Buy a Van or Motor-Home

If you are unsure if you will fall in love with traveling by van, my recommendation to you and everyone, in general, would be to rent a van or motorhome to try it out.

There are many rental companies with quite reasonable prices. Start with a weekend trip.

There are many types of vehicles and conversions, so it’s important to know which one suits you best.

As I said at the beginning of the post, we started with a Trafic L2 with a homemade conversion and switched to a Citroen Jumper Globescout Plus with a professional factory conversion. I’ll tell you in more detail in another post.

Be minimalist

As you can imagine, depending on the type of van you have, the space you will have will be more or less limited.

So I recommend you adopt a minimalist philosophy for van travel (and for life in general).

What I mean is that you should take the minimum amount of resources that it takes for you to travel by van comfortably.

Have Room to Store Food

One of our recommendations for traveling by van regarding food is that you buy plastic containers . It’s the best way to keep the bugs out of your food.

That said, first, measure the space you have to see if they can fit in!!! And put the things you use the most towards the front.

Shop on Amazon

Sleeping in Campsites, yes or no?

Yes and no is my answer, hehe. It depends on your van, the length of your trip, and the amenities you are looking for.

The prohibitions of each country must also be taken into account. In France, we are fortunate; many free places are enabled for vans and motor homes.

If you travel in winter in a small van, you will want to take a hot shower; then you need a campsite.

Spending some nights at a campsite is always advisable on a long trip. Whether to take a nice, maybe (more) long shower, load water, or discharge grey or black water.

Some people sleep more peacefully at night if they are at a campsite.

Also, you can leave the van at a campsite and get around by bike to visit big cities or towns. For example, you can’t drive through some small towns here in France, and there are parking places at the entrance for cars and RVs.

Some countries have specific locations for vans and motorhomes. These places are usually cheap, less than 10 euros per van, and they have water, electricity, bathrooms, and showers.

You can use the Park4night app to find your place to sleep for free or for pay.

* Recommendations :

• Find where you’re going to spend the night before it’s night, especially if you’re going to make camp in the wild.
• If you go camping, you must find out when the barrier closes. Most close at 11 pm; you won’t usually be able to get in or out with your vehicle. So, if you haven’t booked online, you must ensure the reception is open.
• There are paid areas for “camping cars” (vans and motorhomes) that you can book online in France.

How to Park Your Van

How to park your van is one of those tips that seem obvious but make sense.

The van is parked with the cockpit pointing at the exit. The main reason is for security; if anything happens, you are ready to go quickly (always leave the keys in the same place, so you can quickly find them).

You’re going to see that everybody parks it this way. The second reason is to have a little intimacy between van and van if you go to a bustling place.

This way, you will have a place to put your table and chairs (if allowed) between one van and another. So each one has its small porch ;).

On the contrary, if you want to be social, put it with the doors facing towards the other van’s “porches” (you might want to do this if you travel with other vans).

Things that happen at night in a van

If you have never made camp in the wild (park your van in a nice place and are allowed to stay overnight or camp for free and usually in nature), you have to expect noises that will startle you.

Don’t worry; the odds of something happening are very low. Chances are a branch will hit the van’s roof; be careful if there is wind. It could also be that a little animal jumps on the roof or walks around to its stuff.

Keep the Flashlight Handy

Having the flashlight handy is something you’re going to learn when you’re riding a van. The flashlight is used to go to the bathroom at night, keep away from animals, see out when you hear a noise, etc.

Watch the temperatures

Where are you traveling to? Are you planning on traveling to cold places with the van? You have to take into account the isolation of the van. Wear sheets and blankets or a sleeping bag according to temperatures.

If you are traveling to scorching places, check that the air conditioning is gas-free, and don’t forget to bring water. Choose bottles that can contain both cold and heat and can be reused.

Plan a Flexible Itinerary

When you start traveling in a van, you’ll see things going at a different pace. You have to shop, prepare breakfast, prepare food, shower, clean, order, etc…

It’s best to bring an itinerary to know what you want to see and do. It has indicated the must-see places you want to visit on your trip, but it leaves time for improvisation.

Keep in mind; if you fall in love with a place, you may want to stay longer. My recommendation: DO IT!

Where to go to the bathroom

This is an issue you will have to discuss with your travel companion.

Many campers come with a bathroom; for the smaller ones, you can buy a POTTY ; you can go to nature, gas stations, public baths, campsites, cafes, etc.

* Recommendation : Use only the bath/potty of your van in case of emergencies. Keep in mind that you can then smell it, and you have to clean it. In large vans, it’s easier, but potties in the middle of the van are less private.

Check Out The Best Portable Toilets for RV and Camping

Plan Some Meals

Another piece of advice for van travel is to plan your meals.

I’m not saying you have a menu designed for your whole trip, but at least keep in mind what you have in the fridge by the time you come back from walking around all day since you might want to have something to get into your stomach.

I recommend that you think and buy for two days or three, depending on the space you have in the van to store food. If you don’t have a fridge, you will have to buy it almost daily.

It also depends on the temperature during the trip, as food can get spoiled if it gets too hot.

In our case, we usually have breakfast and dinner in the van. Half-day meals are usually made in the city or town we are visiting or take something prepared for the route.

You should try to buy fruits and vegetables in local markets, the same if you travel to fishing spots. This way, you will eat well and tasty, quality food and also help the local economies.

In supermarkets, you can buy non-perishable food and snacks for the day you are away and do not feel like going to the super.

Keep in mind that going shopping is part of the trip (and time-consuming).

Entertainment in the van

You have to have a good stock of entertainment in the van for your long trips, for when you get caught in the rain on the way or when you’re tired.

At least bring a card game, download TV shows (on a WIFI site), podcasts, take books or a Kindle , board games , etc.

Take what you can think of to entertain you during the days you’ll have to stay inside the van.

Learn about Your Van or Motor-home

It sounds silly, but if you haven’t made the van, there’s a good chance you’ll get doubts on your first trip.

For example: How do you put the heating on? How do I turn on hot water? How do I know how much water I have left? How do you empty the potty? Where’s the spare wheel? What’s its height? Etc.

Keep the Van Tidy

My first recommendation is to be minimalist; the second is to have the van or motorhome tidy. And try to keep things in the same place so you know where they are.

Beware of fragile things, fresh things, and rubbish.

Find a Place to Leave Your Shoes

We have a habit of not entering with shoes from the street to the van (shoes – slippers are just for driving).

But if you don’t find a place to leave them, they’re going to be in the middle of everything, and if you’ve been in the country or if it’s been raining, you’re going to leave your van a mess.

Wear a Broom to Clean

Despite leaving the shoes in place, the van gets dirty. So you have to bring a small broom and dustpan to clean it.

The cleaner you have your van, the fewer bugs are going to get in.

*You can bring a small hand vacuum cleaner if you have space and occasionally connect to electricity. We’ve seen it in motorhomes.

Bring a Rug for the Entrance

A nice carpet or rug for the entrance of the van will help you keep the van clean.

Don’t Drive more than 300 kilometers Non-stop

For safety reasons, the recommendation is not to drive for more than two hours in a row non-stop.

Drive Your Van Before Your First Travel

If you’re traveling in a Van, i.e., in a VWTransporter or Trafic van, driving is practically like a car. But you will notice the difference if you drive a large van or a motor home or RV for the first time.

I recommend you drive it a little before starting the trip to get some practice and get to know it better.

You can also practice parking it. I recommend using open parking in a shopping center. Make sure to pay attention to the height of your van!

Rear camera Yes or No?

It’s a super help for me. We didn’t have a rear camera with the Trafic, and it had a tow bar, so you had to be very careful.

But the Jumper has a rear camera, and although the van is much larger, it makes it much easier to park.

Share Driving with Your Co-Driver

Although the driver likes to drive, it is always good that at least two drivers take turns so that the other can rest. If you only drive one, take the necessary breaks.

Take a Trash Can

One of those recommendations seems obvious, and then you end up with the garbage bag hanging from anywhere. And please try to recycle as much as possible.

These are super comfortable for when you cook . It’s the one we have.

When You Buy a Van, Be Able to Explain How it all Works

When buying a van or motorhome, have the dealer or owner explain everything.

Not having someone explain to you the inner working of the van could end up very problematic as you could end up with a bunch of little things you don’t know how they work or where they are.

Travel with travel insurance when traveling outside your country.

Use Solar Panels

Definitely, the best, especially when you have no plans to stop at many campsites or go to paid areas.

• Check out the best solar panels for your RV

Make Sure Your Van or RV Insurance Covers Everything During Your Trip

Your van insurance has to cover you throughout your trip; make sure that’s the case.

Bring a Toolkit

It carries tools, at least one screwdriver (cross and flat), and one flashlight. But also: Velcros, tape, wrench, a cutter, pliers and Allen keys…

Bring a First Aid Kit

Paracetamol, ibuprofen, bandages, Band-Aids, Alcohol…

Check out those from Amazon

Check the Wheels Before You Leave

Essentially, check the pressure and drawing.

Your 12 V fridge

It’s an investment because they’re not cheap, but it’s worth it. You have them that run only on electricity and those that run on gas, electricity, and motor battery. Now we have the latter, and it’s tranquil.

The only drawback is that it takes longer to cool down when you just turn it on with the engine battery.

• Read: The Best Portable Fridges for Travel

*Attention : the engine battery only works when you are running; you have to remember to switch it to gas or electricity (if you are connected to the mains) so that it does not turn off and spoil food or heat the beers!!!

Don’t put a 110V or 220V fridge with an inverter. It’s the most economical option; we had it in the Trafic, but it’s not very efficient, and you end up spoiling the secondary battery if you’re not careful.

Check out this 12V Portable fridge.

The Mattress is Super Important

Part of your van travel experience being a success is the mattress. Your rest is an essential part of the trip.

If you don’t rest, you will be in a bad mood and tired. So make sure you have a comfortable mattress for your trip.

Essential Equipment to Bring

In addition to what I’ve told you, take a camping table, folding chairs, utensils, your favorite drink, a portable fridge, and a portable barbecue.

Check Out this post about RV/Van Equipment.

Surely, I’ll expand this post with new tips as I continue to travel. You can also share your van tips in the comment section so we can help new van travel lovers.

Read On and Plan Your Journey

• What to pack when you’re traveling by van
• Music for your road trip
• Traveling with travel insurance
• Kitchen Gear
• Best RV Toilets
• Portable Fridge for your car or van

Last Updated on 5 October, 2023 by Veronica

Disclosure: Some of the links on this post are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Author: Veronica

Vero, a seasoned traveler, has explored 25 countries and lived in five, gaining a rich perspective and fostering an infectious passion for travel. With a heart full of wanderlust, Vero uncovers the world’s hidden gems and shares insights, tips, and planning advice to inspire and assist fellow adventurers. Join Vero and let the shared passion for travel create unforgettable memories.

Soy Verónica, una apasionada de los viajes, me gusta compartir mis experiencias viajeras en mi blog. He estudiado Empresas y actividades turísticas y ando metida en el mundo del Marketing Digital. Me gusta aprender algo nuevo cada día, conocer nuevos lugares y culturas diferentes.

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May you be successful!

I hope you are doing very well.

Thank you for sharing valuable information with each and every traveler. I would suggest to every traveler who wants to go to a campervan, please read the above tips carefully before going to a campervan as it is most useful in campervan travel.

I appreciate your hard work.

Thanks and regards John

Thank you, John, for your comment! Best,

Great tips, thank you very much.

Thank you, James! I’m glad they helped you!

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Van Life Mexico: The Ultimate List of FAQs

Traveling to Mexico should be on everyone’s bucket list. Mexico has it all: colorful history, stunning nature, diverse culture, and one of the best cuisines in the world. We spent the better part of a year driving through Mexico and loved every minute of it.

Here, you can discover pristine white sand beaches, epic surf, untouched jungles, soaring mountains, crystal blue waterfalls, charming colonial towns, sprawling metropolises, mouthwatering tacos, and bottomless margaritas. But how can you see all that Mexico offers from a tour bus or hanging around major tourist traps?

Hint: You can’t.

Setting out on a Mexico road trip is one of the best ways to dig a little deeper, get off the beaten path, and discover the real Mexico. But before you go, you may be wondering.

Can I Live in a Van in Mexico?

The absolute best way to travel Mexico is in your very own campervan or overlanding rig. With the resurgence of the vanlife and overlanding culture , van life in Mexico has never been more popular. And what’s better is that Mexico makes it easy to do #vanlife.

But driving a van through a foreign country is no small undertaking. And there are many dangers and pitfalls that can befall the underprepared traveler. Thankfully, van life in Mexico is a well-trodden path, with many who have gone before providing insight into just how to travel this vast country with your own vehicle.

From dealing with crooked cops to organizing your paperwork to finding campsites and avoiding scams, we’ve put together a list of our most helpful tips and frequently asked questions for your van life Mexico adventure! We wish we would have known these things before starting out on our own van life Mexico adventure.

Interested in Learning How to start van life?

Check out our detailed step-by-step guide for all the ins and outs of taking the leap and making van life your reality!

Legal Tips and FAQs for Van Life Mexico (The Paperwork)

Before you set off, knowing the basics and essentials for legally driving in Mexico is important.

Do I Need an International Driver’s License for Mexico?

An international driver’s license is required for driving in Mexico if your license is not in Spanish or English .

Is Driving in Mexico with US Plates Legal?

Yes and no.

Driving in Mexico with US plates is legal as long as you are on a tourist visa. Permanent residents, foreign citizens, and Mexican nationals are not allowed to drive foreign-plated cars unless they own the car and drive it over or are an immediate family member with tacit permission.

If you are there on a tourist visa and you do bring your US-plated car to Mexico, be aware that you may be stopped by police inquiring as to the whereabouts of your front plate. Unlike in other countries, the United States does not require front license plates. We were stopped multiple times throughout Mexico inquiring about our front license plate. However, we were allowed to continue onward after simply explaining that this is not required for US-plated vehicles.

What Do I Need to Know About Border Crossings in Mexico by Car?

Would you show up to a job interview unprepared? Border crossings may not be as important as job interviews, but showing up prepared is one way to make the process a lot easier. So here is a basic rundown.

If you plan to self-drive in Mexico, you need first to obtain a personal visa or Mexico Tourist Card (FMM). To obtain the Mexico Tourist Card, you only need a valid passport and to pay the entry fee of $500 pesos (~$25 USD).

Note: You only need to pay the Mexico entry fee if you travel overland, the entry fee is included in the price of your airline ticket if you travel by plane.

Once you have your Mexico Tourist Card you will need to make a photocopy of the card. Inquire with the immigration officer where to obtain a copy. At the US-Mexico border, we crossed, someone was set up in the building to make copies for $1 USD for each copy. At the Mexico-Guatemala border, we were sent to a store across the road to make copies for a fraction of the amount it costs in the US.

Once you have a copy of your Mexico Tourist Card, you need to obtain your Mexico Vehicle Permit, also known as Temporary Import Permit (TIP) for your vehicle. Below are the documents that we needed to cross the border into Mexico.

You need the original and one copy of each document.

• Driver’s License issued outside of Mexico
• A Mexican immigration permit, such as the Mexico Tourist Card (FMM)
• Vehicle Registration issued by a foreign authority in the applicant’s name.
• If the vehicle is leased, financed, or a company-owned car, you will need the applicable contract as well as a notarized letter of consent authorizing you to import the vehicle into Mexico.
• Certificate of canceled import permit for any prior temporary import permits.
• Proof of current Mexican auto insurance

The Mexico Vehicle Permit costs approximately $50 USD, payable to Banjercito, the military bank in charge of vehicle imports. You will also need to pay a deposit called the Temporary Import Deposit, which is determined based on the age of your vehicle. The deposit for vehicles before 2001 is USD $200, for vehicles between 2001 – 2006 USD $300, and for vehicles after 2007 USD $400.

The Mexico Vehicle Permit lasts for 180 days, which is the same as the Mexico Tourist Card.

You do not need to obtain a Mexico Vehicle Permit if you are only planning on visiting the Baja California Peninsula, Quintana Roo, the northwest portion of Sonora (the area west of the 15D and north of Guayamas), or just driving within 25 kilometers of the border.

Pro-tip: If your vehicle qualifies as a motorhome, you can apply for a ten-year vehicle permit. We did not qualify, but my understanding is that you only have to show the vehicle has an onboard toilet to meet the requirements. I have even heard of someone putting a toilet seat on a box and qualifying. If you have a toilet, we recommend this option as you won’t need to pay the additional fees if you plan on staying longer or want to return.

Pro-tip: Go early! Getting to the border when it first opens means that there will usually be fewer people. We also find the people are generally nicer and more helpful in the mornings as opposed to afternoons. Go figure!

Do I Need Van Insurance in Mexico?

Van insurance in Mexico is compulsory. You may be thinking, well, if I am just popping over into Mexico for a short while, do I really need it? Again, the answer is yes. Most US insurance companies do not offer coverage in Mexico, and therefore, you need to arrange it in advance.

Cross Border Coverage offers Mexican auto insurance for American plated cars, RVs, ATVs, campers, watercraft, and more.

For less than USD $300, we were able to ensure our van with full coverage for a year. This is an absolute steal when compared to prices in the United States.

Do I Need Health and Travel Insurance in Mexico?

In addition to insurance for your van, you also need travel insurance for yourself. Accidents and medical emergencies can happen anywhere and everywhere, so it is important to make sure that you are prepared for anything, and taking out travel health insurance with SafetyWing is one of the best ways to be prepared.

SafetyWing Insurance  is a great solution for van life in Mexico. They offer comprehensive travel and health insurance solutions tailored to long-term or indefinite travelers and nomads. Perfect for those living on the road.

We have needed to use travel insurance a couple of times while traveling, once in Colombia and once in Greece. We were so grateful to have the right insurance when we needed it.

Some of the benefits of using a nomad insurer like  SafetyWing  rather than a traditional travel insurer are;

• It’s cheaper than traditional travel insurance
• They offer global coverage (barring North Korea, Cuba and Iran)
• You can start or pause plans after your traveling has already commenced
• They cover you to travel home for 30 days (15 in the US), so you don’t have to take out insurance to visit home

Can I Buy a Mexican Plated Car in Mexico as a Foreigner?

Technically, you can buy a car in Mexico as long as you have the means. Registering the car, however, will be problematic.

To register a car in Mexico, you must provide proof of your Temporary or Permanent Visa and your Mexican address. For more on buying a car in Mexico, we recommend checking out the article by Own Mexico, explaining everything you need to know about purchasing a Mexican car in Mexico.

However, there is always the option of buying a car from another traveler with foreign license plates. Well, it isn’t quite as simple as that, but there are ways around it.

Can I Buy a Foreign Plated Car from Another Traveler in Mexico?

Selling your foreign-plated car in Mexico is technically illegal as you are not allowed to sell your vehicle on your Temporary Import Permit, which is registered in your name. In order for the sale to be legal, you would need to import the car, pay the import duties, and register it in Mexico. Seems too much like a headache, right?

If you don’t want to do this (and really, who does), there are two different options to consider, detailed below.

Option 1: Transferring Ownership

The first option is to transfer the registration of the vehicle to the buyer, but DO NOT MENTION SALE. From now on, we will call the seller the transferer and the buyer the transferee. Some countries, for example, the US and Western Australia (not all Australian states), will allow you to transfer the registration of the vehicle from your name to another person, even non-US / non-Australian citizens and residents. Other countries such as Germany, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands will allow you to transfer the vehicle registration IF the registration is current.

So, what exactly do you need to do?

Step 1: Transfer the Vehicle Registration

Step 2: Cancel and Reissue the TIP

The vehicle transfer should occur near a border as you will both need to visit the aduana. The transferer’s TIP must be canceled, and the transferee must obtain a new TIP. (Note: If the transferer doesn’t want to go to the border, you can always obtain a PODER, and the transferee can cancel the TIP on the transferer’s behalf.)

Option 2: PODER

So, what if you have a car from a country where you cannot transfer ownership? Don’t worry; you still have an option.

If you cannot transfer ownership, then you will need a letter of authorization known as a carta poder. A poder is a notarized Power of Attorney document that grants specific rights to the recipient/s listed as the beneficiary, such as granting full authority over a vehicle to another individual. This document allows the new owner to operate the vehicle as their own and allows them to do with the vehicle as they see fit.

A poder does not change the original documents and technically still remains under the name of the person listed on the title and registration documents. The wording of a poder is important as it must include specific points and contain specific information.

Once you have a poder, you need to have the poder apostilled. An apostilled certificate is a document attached to the original document confirming the document is legitimate and authentic. It basically confirms the notarized document has been signed by the named person in the capacity of the notarized public and bears the seal of the notarized body.

OK, so what now? The TIP needs to be transferred to the new “buyer’s” name. You can do this by both going to the Aduana or the buyer can transfer the TIP to the appropriate name using the poder. To enter future countries, you will need to provide the vehicle document in the seller’s name and the poder to obtain new temporary import documents.

Hopefully, one of these options will work for you. If not, there is always the option of renting a car in Mexico (See more on renting a car in Mexico below).

Can I Leave My Van and Travel Out of Mexico?

Technically, the answer is no, but it can be done.

Our van in Mexico was registered under my name (Kelli) and tied to my passport. However, during our time in Mexico, I left Mexico on four separate occasions while Eddie and the van stayed behind.

With this being said, you are taking a gamble that immigration will flag this on your departure or your return. While this did not happen to me, I have heard horror stories of cars being seized by the government when people have left them behind and of the staggering costs to retrieve them. All in all, it may not be worth the headache if you were to run into trouble. Our advice for leaving a car in Mexico while you leave is just to cancel the TIP in a border-free zone and leave it there.

Can I Rent a Camper Van in Mexico?

So maybe you don’t want to bring your own car for your van life Mexico adventure, and maybe you want to self-drive Mexico in a rental.

The good news is that renting a van in Mexico is legal.

The bad news is that it is not always that easy. Because van travel is not popular among Mexican nationals, only a few companies offer camper vans or converted vans to rent. Usually, van rental is done by private businesses through websites, Airbnb listings, or Facebook groups. Van rentals are mostly found in tourist areas like Baja California, the Yucatan, Quintana Roo, and most recently, Oaxaca.

Here are a few camper van rental companies around Mexico.

• The Kombi Experience in Tulum
• Alfa Combi in the Yucatan
• Paradise Campers in the Yucatan
• Sampa Explore in Baja California

We have compiled a detailed pros and cons guide for each camper van rental company in Mexico .

If you find a van to rent, you will need a valid driver’s license from your home country plus an international driver’s license if your license is not in English or Spanish. And don’t forget about insurance. Third-party insurance is compulsory in Mexico even when renting a car; the rental company or vehicle owner should be able to provide information on this.

the Mexico Free Zone (the Border Free Zone)

Have you heard about the Mexico free zone? What in the heck is it? Let’s dive into some of our burning questions before we set off for van life in Mexico.

What Is the Mexico Free Zone?

Mexico is unique in that it has several border-free zones where tourists do not need to pass through immigration to visit for a limited time. These areas were designated by the Mexican government to increase tourism along the border with the United States, which makes traveling to Mexico a bit easier for those looking to make a trip just over the border.

So you may be wondering, where is the Mexico Free Zone? The Mexico Free Zone includes the following states:

• Baja California (Yes, the entire state is a border-free zone)
• Sonora – From Agua Prieta northwest of Mexico 2 through to Cananea, where Mexico 2 intersects with Mexico 15 in Imuris. The free zone in Sonora lies to the northwest of Mexico Federal Highway Number 2, starting at Agua Prieta. It extends through Cananea, to where it intersects with Mexican Federal Highway 15 in Imuris. From Imuris, all of the areas to the north and west of Mexico Federal Highway 15 are included. Kilometer 98, southeast of Empalme, is where the free zone ends.
• Quintana Roo (Yes, the entire state is a border-free zone.)

So, if you are looking for a sneak peek of a van life Mexico adventure, perhaps a quick test run in the Mexican Free Zone is for you!

Do I Need Car Insurance in the Mexican Free Zone?

Yes. If you bring a car into Mexico, even in the Mexican-free zone, you must have Mexican car insurance. American or other foreign car insurance is not accepted in Mexico. Refer back to the Paperwork Section for the best vehicle insurance for van life in Mexico.

Driving Tips and FAQs for Van Life in Mexico

What kind of vehicle do i need to self-drive in mexico.

Before you begin your self-drive Mexico adventure, you might wonder what kind of vehicle you need. Whether your vehicle of choice is a motorbike, car, van, or really just about anything you would like, they are all suitable for traveling in Mexico.

We have met people with what today is seen as the gold standard in modern vanlifing, the Sprinter van, classic kombis, huge custom Man trucks, regular 4WDs, or vans kitted out to fit overlanding needs, motorbikes, and even bicycles. You name it, we have seen it. We have even heard of people traveling through Central and South America with a tuk-tuk. The moral of the story, choose whatever you think will be most comfortable for what you need.

We did not have a 4WD on our van life Mexico adventure, and we didn’t think it limited our ability to go places we otherwise would have visited. Maybe if you plan to spend a lot of time in Baja, California, and even then, you probably could get by without a 4WD.

Looking for inspiration for your own van conversion before heading out on your own van life Mexico adventure? Check out our DIY van conversion guide .

Is It Safe to Drive in Mexico?

Is it safe to drive through Mexico? And is self-driving Mexico safe?

These are two of the most commonly asked questions we get regarding our van life Mexico travels.

So, the verdict? Is driving in Mexico safe?

We found driving in Mexico safe as long as we took basic precautions. And we found that (most) roads in Mexico were far superior to roads in other developing countries (looking at you South America). However, the most dangerous thing on the road in Mexico may be the topes (more on this below).

But this does not negate that you are in a developing country. While we found police corruption far less of an issue in Mexico than in other Latin American countries, we did encounter it occasionally. And there was also the threat of petty crime and local scams, especially in remote areas like rural Chiapas.

While safety should be considered , if you are mindful and prepared, you can mitigate many of the risks of traveling to this beautiful part of the world.

We live by the following rules when driving in Mexico:

• No driving at night.
• Download Google Maps or Maps Me in case you get lost and have no reception.
• Avoid “high-risk areas” – More on how to identify these areas below
• If stopped by the police or community, don’t try to argue. The path of least resistance is usually best.

Using these guidelines when driving in Mexico worked for us. Occasionally, we pulled the “I don’t speak Spanish card” (which isn’t so far from the truth), but I never needed to whip out the tears as I did in Ecuador because of police corruption.

The moral of the story is just to be smart and stay alert. Most of Mexico isn’t as dangerous as the media makes it out to be.

How to Deal with Traffic Cops in Mexico?

If you self-drive in Mexico, especially with a foreign license plate, you will be stopped by the police. It is inevitable. How they treat you, however, is a toss-up. We found the police overall in Mexico to be reasonable. They stopped us, just like they stopped everyone else, to do their job, mainly ensuring we had the proper paperwork or to ask us about our front license plate.

The only “run-ins” we had with the police were in the extremely popular Yucatan Peninsula. And even then, these were minor.

The most common issue with traffic police is an old bribery routine. Police will insist you have committed some infraction, even though you aren’t certain you have. Perhaps something about your vehicle is illegal, or you failed to follow some local law or mystery street sign. The penalty for this infraction is huge, with big fines and even long-term vehicle impoundment. Oh drat. Luckily, your amigos, the police, will take care of you and make it all go away if you can pay an on-the-spot fine in cash, far less than the original charge.

If you do get this routine (and we have been stopped plenty in South America), then consider using these tactics to deal with the police:

• Stay friendly; aggression definitely won’t help this situation
• Play dumb. On numerous occasions in Mexico, the police simply let us go when we pretended (ok, we really weren’t pretending) that we could not speak Spanish. After spending thirty frustrating minutes communicating via Google Translate, it may start to seem like more trouble than it is worth for the corrupt cops.
• If playing dumb doesn’t work, you could try to escalate. Explain (while keeping things light and friendly) that you don’t believe you have committed an infraction and would like to get a written ticket to go to the police station and dispute the ticket. Be sure to ask them for their names and the name of a superior you can discuss it with. Hopefully, they will back down at this point, not wanting to get caught out in their own corruption. If they don’t back down, well, now you have to follow through. Get names. Write down the name of the officer(s) in charge. We have heard of people following up with charges subsequently and having rulings overturned. We have also heard of bribes doubling when the supervisor gets involved, so make sure you are prepared for the possibility if you request to speak to a supervisor.
• Cry. You may think we are kidding, but it actually works. We have never seen a corrupt police officer throw back our documents as fast as we did in Ecuador when the waterworks came.
• Pay. When things seem dangerous or start to escalate, we recommend paying. At the end of the day, the police, like anywhere else, have power, and if they get the inclination, they can use that power to make life difficult or worse. It isn’t worth the trouble to save the $10 it might cost you if the officer isn’t backing down.

What Is Tope in Mexico? And Why Are They Potentially the Worst Thing about Van Life Mexico?

Think of topes as the cartels of the Mexican road system. They are hard to spot and are extremely dangerous.

So, what exactly is a tope? A tope is simply a speed bump. Many things separate the Mexican tope from the normal speed bump, but the most noticeable (or least noticeable, perhaps) is that they are often unpainted. Imagine how difficult it is to see a speed bump the same color as the road going 50 kilometers per hour in the dark. Almost impossible!

Another key difference is the homemade nature of many topes, used by communities to limit speeds around their towns and villages. There doesn’t seem to be any regulation around the size or severity of topes either, and many are quite aggressive. Decisions behind distances between tope placement is another mystery that continues to elude our comprehension.

And while the locals seem to know where the topes are, foreigners do not. So, word to the wise: keep your speeding in check, or your suspension could need replacing even after only a short road trip in Mexico.

At the end of the day, topes do seem to serve their purpose, as we have seen fewer car accidents and less speeding in Mexico than in other places we have driven.

Can You Explain the Cuota v. Libre Roads?

There are often two types of roads in Mexico. The cuota or paid roads are the toll roads, and the libre or free roads are, well, just that, free. The road quality of the cuota roads is usually considerably better; however, better roads come with a price.

Tolls in Mexico can be quite expensive. On one occasion in Quintana Roo, we paid $266 pesos for a one-hour and forty-five-minute journey from Valladolid to Playa del Carmen. It sounds like highway robbery to me!

If you do decide to take the libre (free) roads, heed this advice. BE CAREFUL OF TOPES.

For more advice on whether it is safe to drive through Mexico, check out our article Is It Safe to Drive Through Mexico? The Complete Van Life Guide !

Camping FAQs for Mexico Vanlife

Are there campgrounds in mexico.

Many people enjoy the idea of overlanding or road-tripping but prefer to stay somewhere with some sort of civilization, say a toilet and running water. Luckily for you, there are plenty of campgrounds available as you overland Mexico or individuals running campground-like facilities from their backyard. iOverlander, discussed below , will be your best friend when finding the best campgrounds in destinations you plan to van life Mexico adventure.

What if I Cannot Afford a Campground Every Night or Love Wild Camping?

Boondocking or wild camping is our favorite form of camping. Boondocking means camping outside designated camping areas without access to water, electricity, or a sewer system. Boondocking in Mexico can be done anywhere as it is legally accepted, unlike in some other countries.

Whether you choose to camp next to a beach, on top of a mountain, or at a gas station, the choice is yours. However, we recommend speaking with the locals nearby to let them know you are there and to ensure your chosen area is safe. Trust us; it will make you and the locals feel much better in the long run, even if you have to wing your way through broken Spanglish to get there!

Check out our favorite boondocking in Mexico locations!

And look, if camping really isn’t your thing, there are plenty of hotels and hostels in Mexico for your choosing. Check out Booking.com for the best deals!

Is It Safe to Stealth Camp in Cities in Mexico?

Stealth camping is secretly camping in your vehicle in a public place, say on a city street or in a shopping center car park. No one loves stealth camping, but as part of your Van Life Mexico trip, I am sure you will occasionally find yourself stealth camping.

When we are not camping at the Walmart parking lot in cities throughout Mexico, we stealth camp. For example, we camped outside a local park in Oaxaca for three weeks off and on, and it was perfectly safe.

Another time, we camped on the streets in Palenque and woke up in the middle of the night to a burglar in our car .

And while this was terrifying, it was also a one-off incident, and we still recommend stealth camping when the occasion arises. And on the whole, we never felt it was “unsafe” when we were stealth camping in Mexico.

If you decide to stealth camp, remember to park in well-lit areas, preferably in areas that have been reported to be safe.

Safety Tips and FAQs for Van Life Mexico

Is mexico safe.

This is the number one question we get about van life in Mexico. Well, actually, we get asked, “Isn’t Mexico dangerous?!”

Traveling through Mexico, like anywhere else, comes with some inherent dangers. However, sometimes, the media’s focus on the sensational can distract us from the true dangers of a region. Many have often questioned our decision to overland through Mexico, and some have asked if it is safe to visit Mexico at all.

While Mexico’s crime rate is higher than, say, the United States, the actual statistical risk of being the victim of serious crimes is extremely low. Within some states, such as Campeche and Yucatán, these rates fall below the National Average for the United States. Conversely, both the rate and the severity of food poisoning cases increase dramatically South of the Border.

Given that, putting all your energy into avoiding being kidnapped in Mexico rather than avoiding suspect street meat will likely put you in the hospital quicker than the cartel. Ensuring you understand the true risks and how to mitigate them is the key to staying safe in Mexico.

Is it safe to travel in Mexico? Yes, in our experience, with proper preparation, precaution, and mindfulness, Mexico is safe to travel.

Where Is Safe to Travel in Mexico?

Mexico is a huge country, so it is unhelpful to generalize the entire country as safe or unsafe. Instead, care and research should be taken in each area you travel in to help understand and mitigate the risks associated with particular regions.

It is equally unhelpful to label some areas of Mexico (or anywhere else) safe and others unsafe. The fact is that dangerous scenarios can develop very quickly. Acapulco, once considered one of the premier vacation spots in Mexico, is, as of 2014, considered one of the most dangerous cities on earth. One where the military has disarmed the corrupt police force and where rates of violent crime are some of the highest in the world.

To travel safely through Mexico, you first need to research your destination(s). By researching the specific areas you intend to visit, traveling only in areas where it is safe, and taking basic precautions, you will find risks can be managed and mitigated, and that travel through Mexico can be done quite safely.

How Can I Find Out Which Parts of Mexico Are Safe for Travel?

Understanding the political, economic, social, and military situation within the region you plan to travel to is as important as it is simple. But how can you keep yourself informed and up to date with the current situation of a particular location?

Government Agencies

One source to begin your broader research is government foreign affairs agencies. Government websites offer travel resources, up-to-date information, and travel warnings. We use the US Bureau of Consular Affairs site  and the Australian DFAT website .

These are great places to research known travel warnings and issues. It is also a good place to research regions in Mexico (or other places) that your government has deemed high risk and will not offer consular assistance in.

The US Government , for example, keeps a website with a list of states categorized as ‘do not travel’ or ‘reconsider travel’ along with the threats they have identified in these regions (usually crime, occasionally kidnapping). We have avoided traveling to all states categorized ‘Do Not Go,’ although many have traveled these areas incident-free.

Honestly, we considered visiting some of these areas and probably would have if there weren’t so many wonderful places that the US Department of State did not flag. We traveled through many states marked as ‘reconsider travel’ such as Chihuahua, Jalisco, Nayarit, Nuevo Leon, and San Luis Potosi. In these areas, we took extra precautions to ensure our safety.

Online Groups, Groups, Forums and Apps

Online forums like Facebook groups such as Over Landing South and Central America and Panam Travellers Association are great forums to seek advice on particular areas from experienced travelers for localized and current information.

Another tool we use for local research is  iOverlander . This mapping and travel app uses community contributions to provide up-to-date travel information, including warnings from other overlanders. This resource is helpful for issues at a local level that might escape the attention of government websites.

Local News and Local Government Agencies

If you find yourself in a localized emergency, local online news is the best place to get information. You can also contact Mexico’s governmental tourism agencies, such as the tourist police, for the region you are traveling in.

Situations can develop quickly, so staying informed through local channels is important. We are not talking about drug cartels with assault weapons here, either. Civil unrest, blockades, and protests can turn violent quickly. Steer clear of these situations or face being singled out as a foreigner.

Consular Services

Finally, your own country’s consular service in the region can help you stay up to date with situations as they unfold.

By staying informed and avoiding areas with increased risk, you are doing the best thing you can to avoid being the subject of serious crime.

How to Avoid Getting Robbed in Mexico?

Okay, so this one might sound like a silly question, but petty theft is a common practice in Mexico. Tourists make for easy targets, especially those in large groups and when alcohol is involved. Ways to stay safe in Mexico and minimize your chances of getting robbed include:

• Don’t walk alone at night
• Avoid dark alleys and roads
• Avoid flashing wads of money in restaurants, bars, and nightclubs
• Avoid wearing flashy jewelry
• Familiarise yourself with the places to visit and avoid dangerous areas
• Don’t get too drunk (and you know what I mean)

Obviously, bad luck could still befall you even if you follow these guidelines. Just remember always to be aware of your surroundings and stay alert.

How to Avoid Getting Scammed in Mexico?

Just like anywhere in Mexico, some dodgy people will try to take advantage of confusion and uncertainty from tourists. Scams range from the innocuous to the bizarre to the downright dangerous. And as soon as you think you know every scam there is, someone goes and invents another. Follow your gut, stick to the plan, don’t trust anything that sounds too good to be true, and don’t be afraid to ask a passing local for help if you smell a scam.

Here are some examples of popular scams in Mexico to look for.

Overpriced Vegetables

In this innocuous marketplace scam, the fruit and veggie vendor has a computer-like ability to eyeball your groceries and price them on the spot. One tomato is 20 pesos, a bunch of coriander is 20 pesos, and a single grape; better believe that’s 20 pesos. When you’re still getting your bearings in a foreign country, working out currency conversion, and relying on rusty Spanish, it can be easier to pay first and realize you have grossly overpaid later. When shopping in the market, ask for the price upfront and compare a couple of stalls to get the best price, you may never get the local price, but you can avoid being a total sucker.

Wrong Change

Okay, so you have figured out the true price of fruit and veg, and you always ask for a quote before you buy great. You grab a banana and hand over your 500 peso bill only to receive a few pesos back. You explain the misunderstanding to the shopkeeper, who doesn’t seem to remember the 500 pesos which have evaporated from sight. Pay in small bills, preferably with correct change where possible.

Double Entry Fees

You are driving into your next tourist destination, ancient Mayan ruins, gorgeous waterfalls, or deep clear cenotes, and are stopped on the road by some local people collecting the entry fee; you happily pay up and receive your ticket. Lo and behold, further down the road, a more official traffic stop tells you the original ticket was bogus or was for some other levy (road access fee??!) and won’t get you into the attraction. If it doesn’t feel right and there is no gate, it is safest to pretend you didn’t see the people flagging you down and keep on driving.

Traffic Police Scams

Police will insist you have committed some infraction, even though you aren’t certain you have. Perhaps something about your vehicle is illegal, or you failed to follow some local law or mystery street sign. The penalty for this infraction is huge, big fines and even long-term vehicle impoundment. Oh drat. Luckily, your amigos, the police will take care of you and make it all go away if you can pay an on-the-spot fine in cash, far less than the original charge.

You will need to feel this one out, and it can be tricky. Strategies to avoid this scam are about making it more trouble than it’s worth for the police officers. Make communication impossible by not speaking any Spanish. Alternatively, if you are sure you haven’t done anything wrong, request the written ticket and say you will follow the officers to the police station to sort it out there; make it clear you will be appealing the bogus ticket. Finally, if everything fails, turn on the waterworks and melt their icy scammer hearts.

The Barricade

It could be a couple of kids with a rope or an entire town with homemade tire spikes, but the intention is the same. Block the way until cooperation (donation) is made. If possible, keep driving through small blockades; that rope will drop just in time. If the whole town is out in force with tire spikes, it might be worth making a small contribution.

Jet Ski Scam

Rental products like jet skis are taken out for some fun. Upon returning, the operator finds that the rental is damaged. You swear you didn’t do that, but they are getting the ‘police’ involved, who will invariably back them up. Only deal with operators with an existing online presence and reputation or come recommended.

Other Tips and FAQs for Van Life Mexico

How long should i spend in mexico.

How long is a piece of string? You can theoretically spend as much time (with border-hopping) or as little time as you want on your Mexico travel. We spent six months on our van life Mexico adventure and barely scratched the surface. Whether you spend one month in Mexico, two weeks, or even just a long weekend, you are bound to fall in love and return one day.

There are plenty of places to visit in Mexico. From the white sand beaches of Jalisco and Oaxaca to the jungles of Chiapas, there are so many beautiful places to explore. Check out the list of our favorite destinations!

How Much Does it Cost to Travel Mexico?

Determining the cost to travel Mexico is difficult as travel styles vary significantly. You can travel to Mexico and spend lots of money, or you can travel to Mexico on the cheap.

On average, we spent USD $350 per week on living expenses for two people. This includes food, alcohol, pre-paid mobile phone plans, laundry, gas, tolls, and other day-to-day expenses. The majority of our budget went to feeding our gas-guzzling Chevy and, of course, feeding ourselves heaps of tacos!

Could we have done Mexico cheaper?

Did we feel as though we missed out on things with our weekly budget of USD $350?

Prices in Mexico are generally cheaper than in the United States or Australia, so on your van life Mexico adventure, you may even spend less per week on the road than you would at home!

If you want to learn more about how much it costs to travel Mexico , check out our more detailed post to give you an idea of what a day-to-day travel budget could look like.

Do I Need to Speak Spanish for Van Life Mexico?

Spanish is the national language spoken throughout Mexico. While we recommend learning at least the basics of Spanish, it is not a necessity. In most large cities, some people will speak English.

Can I Drink the Water in Mexico?

Although some regions now have reliable treated water, the general rule of thumb in Mexico is to consider all water outside high-end restaurants and hotels suspect. This should also be considered when contemplating frozen margs or iced cocktails. Double-check the ice is made from purified water to avoid ruining your entire evening or perhaps an entire trip.

Finding water in Mexico to fill up your onboard water tanks is easy. You can purchase water from the “Agua Purificada” shops in each town, or if you don’t want to pay for water, you usually can fill up at local gas stations and then purify the water with a purification system.

If you choose this option, remember to keep your unfiltered and filtered water in separate containers. We carry a Platypus Water Filtering System with us that allows us to filter 4 liters at a time, which we find handy and avoids buying single-use plastics.

Pro Tip: We did find that the water was safe to drink in Monterrey , but that was the only city where it is possible as you overland Mexico.

Is There Reliable Internet or Mobile Coverage in Mexico?

If you are thinking about a van life Mexico adventure, you may be concerned about reliable internet or mobile coverage, especially if you work remotely. Eddie and I work part-time remote jobs and found working throughout Mexico relatively easy with simply our mobile hotspot.

In most cities and towns throughout Mexico, you can find a 4G signal or better using Telcel, the main mobile provider in Mexico. This means that you might need to do a bit of planning to make sure you are in a town with a signal. We typically structured our weeks to be in a place with a signal Monday to Thursday and then head off-grid for an extended weekend.

If mobile coverage is important to you, check out nperf.com for up-to-date data on signal quality throughout Mexico based on individual providers.

For people with high bandwidth requirements, Starlink RV now provides affordable, reliable mobile satellite internet and speeds of 50–500 Mbps. Currently, Starlink costs a one-time set-up fee of $600 USD and an ongoing subscription of $135 per month.

What Is the Currency in Mexico?

The currency in Mexico is the Mexican peso. If you are checking exchange rates, the abbreviation for the Mexican peso is MXN, not MXP, the old Mexican peso.

Are ATMs in Mexico, or Should I Bring Cash with Me on My Van Life Mexico Trip?

This one is up to you. We typically do not organize foreign currency before heading to a new country, although when we first arrived in Mexico, sorting out an ATM was kind of a headache.

ATMs are available in most cities, although there are some exceptions. For example, some of the remote beaches in Oaxaca did not have ATMs available, so organizing cash before going to these destinations is imperative.

Most ATMs will charge a fee at the ATM (usually MXN $50), and then an additional fee will likely be charged by your bank, depending on the type of fee structure you have. Many US banks have arrangements with their Mexican counterpart and will waive the fee at certain banks. Check with your bank before departing to confirm where to get cash out in Mexico.

The amount you can withdraw from the ATM varies greatly depending on the bank and even the city you are visiting. Generally, I could withdraw between $5,000 – $8,000 pesos at once.

Make sure you always have cash on you in Mexico, as most places do not accept credit cards. In the more popular destinations such as Oaxaca or Tulum, credit cards will be accepted at some establishments, and most gas stations will accept credit cards.

If you are paying with a credit card, be careful. It is common for credit card details to be stolen in Mexico, particularly at the gas station. If paying by credit card, always request the attendant bring the machine to you instead of taking your card to the register. Also, double-check the amount in the credit card machine before they swipe your card. The incorrect amount was entered on at least one occasion, and getting our money back was a hassle!

Pro-tip: When filling up at gas stations, verify the meter is zero before the attendant starts pumping gas. This is another common scam in Mexico to avoid!

What Other Resources Are Available for a Van Life Mexico Adventure?

Ioverlander.

iOverlande r is a great resource for everything on your van life Mexico overlanding trip. It is a map of locations throughout Mexico detailing everything you can think of. On iOverlander, you can find places to wild camp, hostels, hotels, places to eat, laundry facilities, road closure information, corruption, and warnings, literally just about everything you can think of. We use iOverlander on a daily basis when traveling in Mexico and other parts of Central and South America.

WikiOverland

You know about Wikipedia, right? Well, now there is WikiOverland that tells you everything (well, almost everything) you need to know about overlanding a particular country. Like Wikipedia, it is user-submitted, so use common sense when taking the information at face value.

Where to Go on Your Van Life Mexico Adventure?

So now that you know everything there is to know about traveling to Mexico, the next question is, “Where to go in Mexico?”.

There are so many places to visit in Mexico that it is hard to know where to start. As I said, we spent six months during our van life Mexico adventure and barely scratched the surface. But to help you plan your Mexico travels, we have put together ten road trips in Mexico that will at least give you a start. Or, if you prefer to plan your own route, check out our list of the 25 best destinations in Mexico .

Hopefully, some of these tips, tricks, and FAQs will help you on your own Van Life Mexico adventure and self-drive Mexico. Let us know in the comments about your overland Mexico trip!

Out of a love of travel we met in a hostel in Estonia, one snowy Christmas night. Eighteen months later, we quit our day jobs in search of a more nomadic life style together.

Five years later, we are still traveling. Between us we have explored more than 80 countries, undertaken countless #vanlife adventures in more than 12 countries on 4 different continents. Most recently we have been learning to sail on our little boat whisper in the Mediterranean, falling in love with sailing and the live aboard lifestyle. While we travel and work work remotely as digital nomads.

Through this website and our vlog we hope to share some of the things we learn about the off-the-beaten path destinations we visit, about van life, sail life and working remotely from the road.

We are the Vanabonds, these are our tales.

Eddie & Kelli

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27 Comments

Thanks for this wonderful information on travelling in a van through Mexico, looks and sounds like you had a fabulous trip. Its on our list of next adventures. We are potentially thinking of shipping a van over from the UK as they are cheaper for us to buy over there than in the US. Did you see many UK plated vehicles on your travels? We are potentially thinking of converting a van ourselves is there anything in particular you would recommend we install etc. for a trip to Mexico and through Central America? Is there anywhere in particular you would recommend in Central America and anywhere you would avoid? Many Thanks

I’m glad you found the article helpful!

We saw many foreign plated vehicles in Mexico from Europe, South America and North America. I am can’t remember specifically seeing UK plates, but certainly you are allowed to use a foreign plated car in Mexico with a temporary import permit.

An extraction fan is a must and plenty of small twelve volt fans as well. Properly insulating the van and creating reflective insulated covers for the windows will also keep heat out and help regulate the temperature. Perhaps our favourite places in Mexico are the Riviera Nayarit, Oaxaca and Chiapas. In terms of dangerous areas in Mexico, we keep an eye on the US department of State website for updates https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/mexico-travel-advisory.html .

Our exploration of the rest of Central America was cut short by COVID however if you make to South America, the Coffee regions of Colombia and the beaches of Ecuador are very special.

So much great info on van life in Mexico! I’m so tempted!

Mexico is great for van life!

This sounds like an exciting adventure. I’ve only been to Mexico for a day.

Only for a DAY!!! Wow, you could spend a year in Mexico and still not see it all.

Wow, thatnk for this comprehensive guide about traveling through Mexico in a van. I’ve done so in Peru, but not in any other Latin American country so far. But it’s always such a great adventure!

we also traveled Peru by van, and I believe that van life in Mexico is easier than van life in Peru.

Super informative post! Tons of useful advice (especially I liked about dealing with police 🙂 I feel inspired to make such trip through Mexico one day

Yes, you are bound to have a run in with the police in Mexico if you travel by van. It is always good to be prepared.

This is such a comprehensive guide, I absolutely love this! I don’t think anyone could be lost in Mexico with this piece on hand.

Thanks for the kind words. I am glad you found it informative.

What a fantastic way to travel through one of the most beautiful parts of the world. Mexico being unsafe has always been a thing in my mind as well. But, you are right, we can make it safe by following proper precautions.

We felt safe in almost all of Mexico with the exception of Palenque in Chiapas.

Oh, I should add that I did a roadtrip in the south of Mexico in 2019 and I loved it. It is the safest part of Mexico. Even with that, we went through several police / military road stops looking for narcotics or alcohol. Those went without a hitch. So, The Yucatan peninsula is a must with it’s colonial cities, mayan ruins, beaches, and nature reserves. Oh, and the food. Amazing food.

Just don’t eat the raw lettuce. 🙂

Great read. I grew up in Mexico but haven’t lived there for 22 years.

I want to provide a different perspective on two of the recommendations:

1. Some parts of Chiapas are self defined as “self governed”. There was a war between the indigenous people and the government. It hasn’t ended but there is no further military activity. This means that neither the police or the military get into those zones. It is also in some of those zones where the children put their ropes. It is VERY dangerous to try to cross the rope. If you injure a child they will detain you and it is the local government with their own uses and customs. They may request whatever amount they want and no one on the Mexican government will intercede for you. If you decide to use the road between Palenque and San Cristobal ONLY do it during the day, and change your pesos for small change and buy a couple of bags of candy/caramel. When the children approach, distribute a few pesos and a few candies and they’ll drop the rope. You will find about 10 ropes in that road. I’ve sworn that next time I will take the ‘cuota’ (toll road) even if it takes a couple of hours longer. 2. With police you can certainly bluff and it has worked for me in the past. However, if you get to the point of asking for their superiors and they come, the bribe becomes bigger and bigger, and if you really broke a law (even inadvertently) they will take you to jail and the bribe to the “Ministerio Publico” (equivalent to DA) is an order of magnitude bigger or more. Once I had a not at fault accident. The police were nice and agreed it was not at fault. I still had to go to the MP and he threatened me with jail because my children got hurt (slightly). My only out was to pay. I don’t live in Mexico in part because I don’t like corruption, bribes are rarely optional. 3. When you drive in large cities, ALWAYS ensure you have the locks on and the windows up. At red lights keep checking your rear view mirrors to ensure no one is approaching. If someone jumps in front of you don’t stop. Try to go around, they will get out of the way. 4. If someone is trying to rob you, just comply, your life is worth more than what you are losing.

I really want to go to Mexico but I am currently divided between the opinion of people who have actually traveled there in a van and the advise of my family for whom the likelyhood of being kidnapped with Canadian plates is 100%.

(Context: I decided to leave Mexico after being assaulted at gun point in the street once, having my office robbed at gun point once, having been kidnapped when taking a cab and having my car stolen from the parking lot of my apartment).

Thanks for this additional insight from a local. We will make sure to update the post to reflect this content.

What a fantastic way to travel! The freedom of it must be intoxicating. I love the tips for dealing with traffic police – play dumb, cry, if that doesn’t work – pay. That’s pretty much what I used to resort to when getting in ‘trouble’ with traffic police in Thailand.

We have done them all! You never know which one is going to work best!

There’s so much to learn about van life in Mexico! This is such a helpful, comprehension guide though. Love your comment about avoiding street meat versus avoiding the cartel, lol. It’s so true!

haha, it has certainly been true for us!

Super detailed guide! Thanks for sharing! My husband and I have been watching so much vanlife Mexico content on youtube during the pandemic that this was a super interesting read! Bookmarking 🙂

Traveling by van in Mexico is so much fun! Highly recommend!

I’ll admit, driving in a foreign country definitely makes me very nervous so I appreciate this guide that answers all of those nagging questions about how to do it.

Wow! This is such a detailed guide for van life in Mexico. I want to visit Mexico too, and you are convincing me to do this Van Life! 🙂

Having a van in Mexico is great because you can explore places that are less touristy!

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Notificaties

• Vuelta a Espana 2024
• IDL-producties
• Wielerkalender 2024 - mannen
• Wielerkalender 2024 - vrouwen

Van Eetvelt steekt hand in de lucht, maar ijzersterke Roglic pakt dubbelslag in zinderende Vuelta-ontknoping

Primoz Roglic heeft een beste slag geslagen door de vierde etappe in de Ronde van Spanje te winnen. De klimmer van Red Bull-BORA-hansgrohe was de best op de loodzware Pico Villuercas, voor de op enkele centimeters eindigende Lennert Van Eetvelt en Joao Almeida. Roglic nam de rode trui over van Wout van Aert, die al vroeg moest passen. Verschillende mannen kregen klappen in het klassement of konden zelfs al (voorlopig) vaarwel zeggen tegen een mooie eindklassering.

De vierde etappe bood op papier veel spektakel, met vier cols, samengepakt in 170 kilometer. De eerste drie beklimmingen waren vooral lopers, en voorgerechtjes op de ultieme slotfase op de Pico Villuercas. Deze klim kende een aangename eerste helft, maar zou met meer dan drie kilometer gitzwarte piste sowieso voor verschillen gaan zorgen tussen de favorieten. Vraag was alleen nog: wilden zijn ook voor de ritzege gaan?

Beginfase bol van de demarrages, Arensman en ploegmaats op het asfalt

De eerste twee lagen al in de eerste 55 kilometer en dus was het uitkijken naar een venijnige openingsfase. Zat coureurs die hier wel wat in zagen. Josh Tarling probeerde het, samen met onder meer Bruno Armirail en Luca Vergallito. Pogingen één en twee slaagden niet, maar met name Armirail bleef loeren op de goede vlucht, met misschien wel een rode trui in het achterhoofd. Hij stond namelijk dicht in het klassement.

Een derde poging slaagde wel. Pablo Castrillo (Equipo Kern Pharma), Sylvain Moniquet (Lotto-Dstny), Armirail (Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale), Filippo Zana (Jayco-AlUla) en Mikel Bizkarra (Euskaltel-Euskadi) fietsten een gat van maximaal vier minuten bij elkaar. Ze werden hierbij in het zadel geholpen door een valpartij in het peloton. Hierbij was het schrikken voor Thymen Arensman en ploeggenoten Laurens De Plus en Oscar Rodriguez. Ze konden echter alle drie verder.

Strijd om de bollen, lange tussenfase noopt Red Bull-BORA kaarten op tafel te leggen.

Op de eerste twee cols was er een strijd tussen Bizkarra en Moniquet om de bollentrui, waarbij de Belg twee keer de sterkste was. Hij verzamelden zo vijftien punten voor het bergklassement en reed zichzelf in kansrijke positie om zichzelf bovenop de slotklim in de bollentrui te mogen hijsen. Dit te meer omdat Red Bull-BORA-hansgrohe al vroeg de leiding nam in de achtervolging. Dit had vooral met het parcours te maken.

De valleifase duurde namelijk een dikke veertig kilometer en brak de etappe jammer genoeg in tweeën. We zagen geen koers, slechts controle en de voorsprong liep langzaamaan terug tot twee minuten. De ploeg van Primoz Roglic week niet meer van de kop af en zo werden de aspiraties wel duidelijk gemaakt. Wilde de ploeg van de Sloveen de rit winnen? Daar leek het verdacht veel op.

Opmaat naar slotklim, waar dappere Armirail van rood blijft dromen

Terwijl het vanuit de tv-commentaarcabines over karnemelkpannenkoeken, Indiana Jones en rijpe vijgen ging, kabbelde de wedstrijd voort. Armirail kwam boven op de voorlaatste klim van derde categorie, hier lagen nog bonificatieseconden te wachten. De Fransman reed al de hele dag virtueel aan de leiding en droomde nog van het rood, afhankelijk van de koerszin in de grote groep achter de vluchters.

Armirail kachelde na de voorlaatste klim door en nam Castrillo mee op sleeptouw. De rest van de vluchters vond het wel best en liet zich inlopen. Aan de voet van de slotklim wachtte nog de tussensprint. Klassementsleider Wout van Aert dook in de Alpecin-Deceuninck-trein en vocht nog een mooi duel uit met Kaden Groves. De Australiër won en liep zo wat in wat betreft de strijd om het groen.

ARTICLE_IN_1

Eerste schifting, eerste slachtoffers in Vuelta

Na de sprint liet Van Aert - zoals verwacht - al gauw lopen. De veertien kilometer lange slotklim begon genadig, maar werd met een stevig tempo aangevat. Zodoende was het wachten op slachtoffers. De strijders vooraan werden seconde per seconde teruggehaald: een minuut restte hen nog op negen kilometer van de meet. Toen moesten echter de meest monsterlijke stroken nog opdoemen. Stilaan drongen ook UAE en Lidl-Trek naar voren in de elitegroep. Eit voila, het geitenpad werd aan de linkerkant ingeslagen. Betonplaten met gaten, typisch Vuelta. Heerlijk.

Hier werd het peloton meteen gedecimeerd en was het zo goed als ieder voor zich. Pavel Sivakov ging als eerste aan, Aleksandr Vlasov zat al snel in het wiel, met Roglic achter zich. Hier werden de vluchters bijgehaald en kon het feest beginnen. Sepp Kuss was even nergens te bekennen, maar reed ook netjes naar voren. Ook Richard Carapaz, Enric Mas en Lennert Van Eetvelt zaten er goed bij. Voornaamste missende namen vooraan: Ben O'Connor, Adam Yates en Mattias Skjelmose.

Roglic indrukwekkend, maar ook Van Eetvelt maakt indruk

Daar het even stilviel bij de kleppers, schoof Felix Gall plots naar voren. De Oostenrijker in Franse dienst pakte een knap gat van een meter of vijftig. Op de stroken van 18% gaf Roglic nog eens een dot gas. Arensman en De Plus zaten achterin en verloren tijd, hetzelfde gold voor Cian Uijtdebroeks. Gall werd door Roglic, Van Eetvelt en Mas bijgebeend en zodoende hadden we een kwartet vooraan in de laatste drie kilometer. In deze fase waren ook Kuss en Carapaz er niet meer bij en keerde Joao Almeida - op kenmerkende wijze - juist terug. Gall moest zijn aanval bekopen en loste.

In de laatste anderhalve kilometer keerden de Portugees, de Oostenrijker én de verrassend naar voren gereden Matthew Riccitello naar terug aan de kop en kregen we een strijd tussen zes mannen. Mikel Landa kwam ook op wonderbaarlijke wijze aankakken en maakte daar een zevental van. De Bask demarreerde dapper, maar werd teruggepakt door Van Eetvelt. Die werd op zijn beurt nét voorbijgestoken door Roglic, die in het sprintje de rit en het rood pakte.

Uitslag etappe 4 Vuelta a Espana 2024

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Parcours en uitslagen Vuelta a España 2024 | Van Aert wint sprint in derde etappe, morgen eerste klimtest

Deelnemers, rugnummers en uitvallers vuelta a espana 2024 | geen uitvallers in door van aert gewonnen etappe, klassementen vuelta a españa 2024 | stand flink opgeschud roglic in het rood, groen voor van aert, boetes en tijdstraffen vuelta a españa 2024 | boete voor spaanse ploegleider in derde etappe, favorieten etappe 4 vuelta a españa 2024 | we zijn in spanje, en hoe: direct een geitenpad, volg live etappe 4 vuelta a espana 2024 in ons liveblog.

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Fanservice: aflevering 52.1 – De Ridders van de Fanservice Tafel

Wat is dit? Een crossover-aflevering? Jawel! Voor deze dubbele aflevering heeft Fanservice de samenwerking gezocht met de (retro)gamepodcast 'De Ridders van de Retro Tafel'. 

Peter "Retrogamepapa" Scheffer en ik zullen het uiteindelijk hebben over computer-RPG's. Voor het zover is hoor je in dit deel eerst de Intocht (een item uit de podcast van Peter), waarin we stilstaan bij dingen die we de afgelopen tijd hebben beleefd. Zo heb ik het over mijn cosplay op Dutch Comic Con en mijn avonturen in Elden Ring en blikt Peter terug op de game-dag die hij organiseerde. 

Information

• Show Fanservice
• Published December 23, 2023 at 8:11 AM UTC
• Length 40 min
• Rating Clean

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Dit zijn de beste foodprocessors van 2024 die een snelle maaltijd op tafel zetten een stuk makkelijker maken

Als je deze keukenmachines in huis hebt, kun je niet meer zonder.

Of je nou een bezielde hobbykok bent of iemand die totaal niet van koken houdt, dit apparaat maakt je leven een stuk makkelijker. Wij helpen je een handje op weg met een selectie van de beste foodprocessors voor ieder budget.

De 6 beste foodprocessors van 2024

Sage the paradice 9 foodprocessor.

Sage, het merk wat bekendstaat om de fraaie metalen koffiemachines die alle it-girls hebben, heeft ook een goede metalen foodprocessor. Vanaf nu gaat hakken, snijden en raspen in een heel rap tempo. Wij mochten 'm proberen en we waren helemaal verknocht, alles wordt in no time knap gehakt, gesneden of geraspt en ziet er ook nog eens mooi uit. We willen niet anders meer.

Kenwood MultiPro Go foodprocessor

Een budgetvriendelijke optie is de keukenmachine van Kenwood. Het compacte exemplaar is ideaal als je weinig ruimte hebt in de keuken. Hij mag dan klein zijn, je levert niet in op kracht en snelheid.

KitchenAid multifunctionele keukenmachine

De prijs voor mooiste keukenmachine gaat in ieder geval naar het brandweerrode exemplaar van KitchenAid. De compacte keukenmachine kun je gebruiken voor hakken, snijden, raspen en kneden.

Ninja Foodi 3-in-1 foodprocessor en blender

Ninja ging helemaal viral door hun ijsmachine , maar ook deze foodprocessor vinden we een TikTok-hype waard. Het keukenapparaat is een foodprocessor, blender en ijscrusher in één. De 5-sterren reviews liegen er niet om.

Philips keukenmachine

Het vuile werk knapt deze Philips-keukenmachine voor je op. Hakken, pureren, snijden, versnipperen, kloppen, kneden, emulgeren en meer kan deze multifunctionele keukenhulp.

Magimix Cuisine 5200XL keukenmachine

Als veel knopjes en tierlantijnen niet je ding is, dan is deze foodprocessor met drie knopjes de hemel op aarde. Met een inhoud van 3,6 liter kun je makkelijk grote hoeveelheden eten klaarmaken.

De favo Amazon-producten van TikTokker Alix Earle

Coole modevrouwen dragen nu déze toffe schoenen

Dit seizoen wil je deze broek in je kast hebben

Zó stylen modemensen dit najaar hun cargo broeken

Dit zijn de beste ijsbaden van 2024

Draag deze broeken als je wat korter bent

Deze chique jurk van H&M is perfect voor de herfst

Shop hier de gewilde elektrische fiets van Action

Dit hoofdkussen van Action is razend populair

Dít is de schoenkleurtrend die je overal gaat zien

In deze Asics-sneakers krijg je zéker geen blaren

I packed for a 2-week vacation in a van using tips from people who live in one full time. It made my journey so much smoother.

Other destinations

• 57.104283 138.257106 4 Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve
• 48.204944 134.858911 5 Bolshekhekhtsirsky Nature Reserve
• 48.10582 135.136973 7 Vladimirovka , located miles and miles away from Komsomolsk, a native village of Negidals.

Khabarovsk Krai occupies a long swathe of Russia's Pacific coastline, a full 2000 kilometers of it, going as far south as Sakhalin and north to Magadan Oblast . At nearly 800.000 km², it's Russias fourth largest province. In the north, taiga and tundra prevail, deciduous forests in the south, and swampy forests in the central areas around Nikolaevsk-on-Amur . As a testament to its size there are more than 50 thousand lakes to fish in, more rivers and streams than you would care to count, and several mountain ranges intersect the region, including the northern reaches of the Sikhote-Alin mountains shared with Primorsky krai. The highest point is Mount Bery, towering nearly in fact, three quarters of the area is occupied by mountains and plateaus.

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