When I first had the idea to travel the country in a camper van I thought that some of the people I ran it by may be disappointed with the concept. For as long as I can remember my life plan was to go to college, graduate then start a career. What that career would be changed over the years, but I never considered that I could have a job outside the office. I didn't even know it was a possibility.
When I started college, I wanted to be a broadcast journalist. After rediscovering my love for the outdoors, I began exploring careers in the outdoor industry. For the rest of my college experience, I knew I wanted a career in the outdoors, but I had no idea what was possible. Even when I saw others online talking about vanlife I thought to myself "Wow, that looks like an amazing life," but it always seemed so unattainable.
So when I started thinking about vanlife for myself, I assumed that some would think I was a slacker for not going to work in an office.
It turns out that assumption was completely wrong. Every time I've told someone about this idea, I've had an overwhelmingly positive result. They almost always respond by saying that the idea sounds great and they'd love to do the same thing if they were able to.
All my parents are happy to support this idea and have been a big help along the way. They were able to put me in touch with a few of their friends who had tried vanlife in the past.
One of the couples I spoke with was Dash and Amanda, who had traveled around the country for months in their van. I had a nearly two hour conversation with them over the phone, and they told me all about their experiences on the road. They told me about tips and tricks to organize my van, best places to stay and where to stop along the way.
Nearly everyone else I have spoken to about vanlife has said the same thing: "Wow that sounds fun. I wish I could do that too!" Many of them seem to have the same thoughts I had for so long, that the idea of vanlife sounds intriguing, but it seems out of reach because of finances, family obligations or their career.
Vanlife may not be for everyone, but if it's been your dream to travel the country, even for just a few weeks, this blog could help you with tips and tricks for doing just that.