Is #vanlife on your mind? Have you spent hours scrolling the hastag, dreaming about a life without boundaries?? We spent hours creating this mega resource for people who want to give vanlife a try!
Grab your FREE #VANLIFE Jumpstart Toolkit
What’s inside?
This free mega guide includes PDF downloads of the following:
- Van Build Specs
- Van Build Planner
- Van Build Budget Tracker
- Van Build Layout Worksheet
- Vanlife Job Ideas
- Vanlife Cookbook
Plus, we’re sharing tons of tips about working remotely, all kinds of gear to make vanlife easier, and information we wish we knew before we hit the road that you won’t find anywhere else.
We spent hours creating this super helpful mega guide just for you.
Enter your email and we’ll immediately send the packing list to your inbox (totally FREE).
We’ll also be sending you bonus tips on all things #vanlife!
We value you, and NEVER spam. (We hate spam too.)
Thinking about building your own campervan?
After building two campervans completely from scratch, we decided to create the resources we wish we would’ve had along the way. We spent the better part of a year creating Van Conversion Academy.
No more headaches or hours of research… Click below to learn more about Van Conversion Academy and get on the road faster!
Check out our other campervan content…
We have TONS of resources on converting your own campervan and living the #vanlife. Check out our Ultimate Guide to Van Life for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.
Creative Campervan Kitchen Ideas
Designing your dream vanlife kitchen can be overwhelming because there are tons of choices to make. Don’t worry — we’ve been there (twice!) and are here to share our top campervan kitchen ideas and guide you through the big decisions like: What’s the best campervan sink? Propane vs. electric cooktop?...
Best Campervan Toilets (for all budgets!)
Choosing a campervan toilet can be an overwhelming decision. Let us take the guesswork out as we share the best campervan toilet options for all budgets — from nearly free to pretty dang fancy — we’ll walk you through pros and cons of each toilet as well as all the...
Campervan Bed Ideas: Best Designs for your Van Bed
Are you designing your campervan bed and need some inspiration? Well, come and rest your head here. We’re sharing all the bed layouts possible in a van and considerations such as price, space, and comfort. Get your campervan bed ideas here!
Campervan Layouts: How to Design your Dream Van Build
This is the ultimate guide to campervan layouts, no matter your budget or the size of your vehicle. We’re walking you through essential questions to ask so that you are able to determine what’s most important and design the perfect van for your needs! Let’s start the journey to designing...
Campervan Storage Ideas: Creative Solutions for Your Van Build
Figuring out how you’re going to fit everything into your tiny home on wheels can be overwhelming, but lucky for you, we’ve got tons of campervan storage ideas just for you! We’re sharing our own storage solutions as well as creative inspiration from other vanlifers so you can come up...
Van Conversion Ideas: Design Inspiration for Your Campervan Build
When planning your campervan design, you’ll want to do some research to see what’s out there. We’ve rounded up tons of inspiration and van conversion ideas for all styles and budgets.
Campervan Insurance: How to Get Full Coverage for Van Life
Having proper campervan insurance is extremely important, but the process can be really confusing. We’re sharing everything you need to know about getting insurance for a self-build van conversion (+ some seldom talked about tips!) so that you can be sure you’re covered in case of an accident.
Van Insulation: DIY Guide to Insulating Your Campervan
While it may not be the sexiest subject, choosing your campervan insulation is one of the biggest decisions you’ll need to make early on in your van build. From natural wool insulation to 3M Thinsulate (and all the options in between), we’re sharing the best types of van insulation along...
10 Best Vans for Camper Conversion [2024 Update]
Choosing the best van for a camper conversion can be a difficult decision. But fear not; we’re here to help! We’re sharing the best vans to convert into a campervan along with their specs, the pros and cons, as well as some insider tips and things to consider when buying...
DIY Campervan Conversion on a Tiny Budget in Less Than 1 Week
If you want to make your own DIY campervan conversion but don’t have a lot of time or money, we’ve got you covered! This article is chock-full of practical tips and all the steps needed to make your own DIY campervan conversion on a small budget in just one week....
Campervan Appraisal: How much is your DIY van worth?
We're sharing exactly how to get a campervan appraisal quickly and affordably so you're covered to hit the road.
Nature’s Head Composting Toilet Review
If you’re trying to choose a toilet for your campervan build and are curious about the Nature’s Head Composting Toilet, this is the place to be. We’ll share our (honest!) opinion, divulge insider tips, and explain if this campervan composting toilet is worth the hype or not.
Van Conversion Cost: Complete Price Breakdown
“How much did your campervan cost?” is usually the first question we are asked about van life. We’re breaking down all our expenses for our campervan build. We also highlight cheaper ways to convert a van if you have a tight budget and showing off some bougie upgrades that are...
DIY Campervan Kitchen for less than $50
A DIY campervan conversion just isn’t complete without a working kitchen. Check out our step-by-step tutorial that walks you through everything you need to make your own DIY kitchen for your campervan or RV, complete with a working sink, stove, storage and counter space for chopping all those fresh veggies!
DIY Campervan Bed Frame with Built-in Storage
When making your own DIY campervan conversion, one of the most important things to think about is how to make the bed. It's what you’ll be sleeping in, after all! We have put together a step-by-step tutorial that walks you through how to make your very own DIY bed frame...
We Bought A House!
After 3 years of living a semi-nomadic lifestyle, we've taken the plunge and bought a little place to call our own. It might not be quite what you're imagining though... Come take a look.
Best New Zealand Campsites: Ultimate Guide + Free Map
With so much jaw-dropping country to explore, a lot goes into planning a New Zealand camping trip. With the help of fellow travel bloggers, we rounded up the best New Zealand campsites, plus everything you need to know to plan an epic trip.
32 USA Road Trip Ideas + Expert Tips
Heading out on a USA road trip this summer? This MASSIVE list is packed with routes recommended by fellow travel bloggers, sharing tips about their favorite American road trip ideas. From the West Coast to Key West, this article has the best routes for your next open road adventure!
28 Best USA Campervan Rentals (+ exclusive discounts!)
Planning a campervan trip in the USA and wondering where the heck to rent a campervan from? We know how confusing this can be, so we’ve rounded up the best USA campervan rentals (for all budgets and regions!). Plus, we’re sharing insider tips, things to look for in a rental...
Best Hawaii Campervan Rentals (+expert tips!)
A campervan rental in Hawaii is the best way to immerse yourself in the islands’ natural beauty and explore hidden gems off the typical tourist path. We’re sharing the best Hawaii campervan rentals, along with essential tips.
Best Campervan Hire in France (+expert tips!)
With thousands of campgrounds and a wealth of nature and culture to explore, France is the perfect place for a road trip. This article will help you choose the best campervan hire France has to offer for your personal travel needs and budget.
Best Canada Campervan Rentals (+expert tips!)
From the Rocky Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean to the Arctic North, Canada’s vast wilderness is the perfect setting for a campervan road trip. We’re sharing the best Canada campervan rentals for all regions and budgets, along with insider tips from our own personal experience.
Best Campervan Rental in New Zealand: Ultimate Guide
There are so many campervan rentals in New Zealand, choosing one can feel overwhelming. We’re breaking down all the important things you need to look for to find the best campervan hire for your New Zealand road trip. We’re even sharing exactly which companies we recommend.
How to Plan a Road Trip (+ biggest mistakes to avoid!)
Road trips are arguably one of the best ways to really see a place while having the freedom and flexibility that comes with having your own vehicle. This article will walk you through exactly how to plan a road trip, including our favorite tips and hacks as well as what...
Best Vancouver Campervan Rentals (+expert tips!)
Nestled between the majestic Rocky Mountains and the beautiful Pacific Ocean, Vancouver is the perfect place to rent a campervan for an adventurous road trip in western Canada. We’ve rounded up the best Vancouver campervan rentals to help you choose the perfect ride.
Best Campervan Rental in Italy (+expert tips!)
Italy’s rolling vineyards, rugged mountains, and colorful coastal villages are the perfect setting for an unforgettable road trip. We’ll help you find the best campervan rental in Italy, along with insider tips, what to pack, and the best places to add to your itinerary.
Best Campervan Rentals in Portland (+expert tips!)
If road tripping in Oregon isn’t on your bucket list, it should be. In this guide, we’re detailing the best Portland campervan rentals, along with tons of insider tips for a mind-blowing adventure in this beautiful state.
Best Campervan Rentals in Seattle (+expert tips!)
There’s no better way to explore the natural wonders of the Pacific Northwest than by campervan. We’ve rounded up the best Seattle campervan rentals to help you plan an unforgettable road trip around Washington state.
Best Campervan Rentals in the UK (+expert tips!)
Traveling the UK in a campervan is the perfect way to explore the country’s stunning mountain vistas, storybook villages, ancient castles, and jaw-dropping coastal scenery. This guide lays out the best campervan rentals in the UK to help you plan your dream trip.
Best Campervan Rentals in Salt Lake City (+expert tips!)
Known as “the Crossroads of the West”, Salt Lake City is the perfect starting point for an unforgettable road trip. We’ve rounded up the best campervan rentals Salt Lake City has to offer, along with tips to help you plan the perfect adventure.
Mad Campers Review: New Zealand’s Best Budget Campervan Rental?
Mad Campers is one of New Zealand’s most well-known campervan rental companies. In this Mad Campers New Zealand review, we’re sharing why we chose this company, our personal experience, and our honest opinions on the campervan we rented.
Happy Campers Review: Iceland’s Best Campervan Rental?
Happy Campers is one of Iceland’s most well-known campervan rental companies. In this Happy Campers review, we’re sharing why we chose this company, our personal experience, and our honest opinions on the campervan we rented.
Creative Campervan Kitchen Ideas
Designing your dream vanlife kitchen can be overwhelming because there are tons of choices to make. Don’t worry — we’ve been there (twice!) and are here to share our top campervan kitchen ideas and guide you through the big decisions like: What’s the best campervan sink? Propane vs. electric cooktop?...
Campervan Essentials: The Ultimate Van Life Packing List
Make your tiny home life easier with this campervan gear packing list. We'll show you our favorite travel products for the road from camping gear to kitchen supplies to creative storage. Are you ready for the van life?! This packing list will get you there.
The Dyrt App: Honest Review & Exclusive Offer
Finding campsites is a piece of cake when you have a great camping app! We’re sharing our honest thoughts on one of the most popular camping apps out there — The Dyrt. We are going over our insider tips, features we love, and updates we’d like to see improved. We...
How to find Free Camping in the USA (+Tips & Apps)
Ever wonder how people find free camping? We’ve rounded up our top tips and advice as well as the best free camping apps out there. Plus, we’re sharing the no-BS truth about what free campsites are really like.
Best Campervan Toilets (for all budgets!)
Choosing a campervan toilet can be an overwhelming decision. Let us take the guesswork out as we share the best campervan toilet options for all budgets — from nearly free to pretty dang fancy — we’ll walk you through pros and cons of each toilet as well as all the...
Campervan Bed Ideas: Best Designs for your Van Bed
Are you designing your campervan bed and need some inspiration? Well, come and rest your head here. We’re sharing all the bed layouts possible in a van and considerations such as price, space, and comfort. Get your campervan bed ideas here!
DIY Campervan Curtains vs. Insulated Window Covers
If you have a campervan or RV, you will need to make curtains or window covers to block out the light (and give your tiny home added privacy, of course!). We’re comparing different types of window covers as well as providing a detailed yet simple tutorial that will walk you...
Vanlife with a Dog or Cat: Insider Tips & Advice
If you’re thinking about joining the vanlife movement but unsure whether or not it’s doable with your furry friend by your side, you’ll want to read this article! We’ve asked fellow vanlifers who travel with their dogs and cats to give us insider tips and advice about life on the...
Campervan Layouts: How to Design your Dream Van Build
This is the ultimate guide to campervan layouts, no matter your budget or the size of your vehicle. We’re walking you through essential questions to ask so that you are able to determine what’s most important and design the perfect van for your needs! Let’s start the journey to designing...
Campervan Storage Ideas: Creative Solutions for Your Van Build
Figuring out how you’re going to fit everything into your tiny home on wheels can be overwhelming, but lucky for you, we’ve got tons of campervan storage ideas just for you! We’re sharing our own storage solutions as well as creative inspiration from other vanlifers so you can come up...
Planning a Campervan Trip in New Zealand: Ultimate Guide
This comprehensive guide has literally everything you need to know about planning a campervan trip to New Zealand; from how much it costs, to how to shower while living in a campervan, to the magic trick you need to know to find campsites. Any questions you have about renting a...
Van Conversion Ideas: Design Inspiration for Your Campervan Build
When planning your campervan design, you’ll want to do some research to see what’s out there. We’ve rounded up tons of inspiration and van conversion ideas for all styles and budgets.
Worst Parts of Vanlife (the stuff nobody talks about!)
Instagram makes #VanLife look like a dream. And it is… 90% of the time. But what about the 10% that nobody talks about? We’re about to break down the worst parts of vanlife. The stuff that doesn’t make it onto Instagram. If you’re considering converting a campervan, this is a...
Campervan Insurance: How to Get Full Coverage for Van Life
Having proper campervan insurance is extremely important, but the process can be really confusing. We’re sharing everything you need to know about getting insurance for a self-build van conversion (+ some seldom talked about tips!) so that you can be sure you’re covered in case of an accident.
Van Insulation: DIY Guide to Insulating Your Campervan
While it may not be the sexiest subject, choosing your campervan insulation is one of the biggest decisions you’ll need to make early on in your van build. From natural wool insulation to 3M Thinsulate (and all the options in between), we’re sharing the best types of van insulation along...
10 Best Vans for Camper Conversion [2024 Update]
Choosing the best van for a camper conversion can be a difficult decision. But fear not; we’re here to help! We’re sharing the best vans to convert into a campervan along with their specs, the pros and cons, as well as some insider tips and things to consider when buying...
9 Easy Camping Meals (that are healthy & delicious!)
Cooking healthy and delicious meals while traveling in a campervan is easier than you think! We’ve rounded up our favorite healthy camping meals and are sharing the step-by-step recipes so you can see just how easy they are, even if you have a tiny kitchen to work with. Bonus: All...
Best Campervan Hire in Scotland: Ultimate Guide
Searching for the best campervan to hire for your Scotland trip? We’ve rounded up the best rental options along with pros, cons and insider tips so you can plan the perfect campervan trip!
Best Campervan Rentals in Iceland: Ultimate Guide (+ Inside Tips!)
If you're looking for an Iceland campervan rental, you've come to the right place. In this article we break down all of the FAQs about traveling Iceland in a campervan, plus tell you about the best Iceland campervan rental company which we just so happen to have an exclusive discount...
Best Campervan Rentals in Ireland (+expert tips!)
Few things rival a campervan trip around the rolling green hills and rugged sea cliffs of Ireland. If you’re struggling to narrow down which rental company to choose, don’t worry – we got you! We’ve rounded up the best campervan rentals in Ireland to help you plan an unforgettable road...
Is Harvest Hosts Worthwhile? Honest (no BS!) Review + Tips
If you've been wondering whether a Harvest Hosts membership is worthwhile for you, you've come to the right place. In this Harvest Hosts review, we share our honest opinions on the program, including pros, cons, and tons of helpful insider tips.
DIY Campervan Conversion on a Tiny Budget in Less Than 1 Week
If you want to make your own DIY campervan conversion but don’t have a lot of time or money, we’ve got you covered! This article is chock-full of practical tips and all the steps needed to make your own DIY campervan conversion on a small budget in just one week....
Campervan Appraisal: How much is your DIY van worth?
We're sharing exactly how to get a campervan appraisal quickly and affordably so you're covered to hit the road.
Bunk Campers: Honest Review of Scotland’s Best Campervan Rental
Planning an epic Scotland road trip and looking for the best campervan rental in Scotland? We’re sharing why we chose Bunk Campers and our honest opinions about the campervan hire process. Plus, we’ll bring you on a tour of our rental motorhome!
USA National Park Annual Pass: Is it Worthwhile? + How to Buy
At just $80 per year, the America the Beautiful National Park Annual Pass grants you free access to over 2,000 Federal recreation areas in the United States, including all 62+ National Parks. Here is everything you need to know about the pass.
Driving the Great Ocean Road Australia: Road Trip Itinerary + Map
One of our all time bucket list trips is driving the Great Ocean Road in Australia. We called upon a guest blogger to share his itinerary and tips for exploring the lesser-known gems of Australia’s southern coast on this epic Australian road trip.
Campervan for Sale (+WHY we’re selling)
We are selling our fully-built campervan! This low-mileage beauty is road ready and looking for some adventure.
48 Money-Saving Tips for a Cheap Road Trip
If you're planning a road trip and are trying to stay on a budget, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve gathered our best, most practical money-saving tips and hacks so you can plan a cheap road trip without sacrificing any fun!
Nature’s Head Composting Toilet Review
If you’re trying to choose a toilet for your campervan build and are curious about the Nature’s Head Composting Toilet, this is the place to be. We’ll share our (honest!) opinion, divulge insider tips, and explain if this campervan composting toilet is worth the hype or not.
Campervan WiFi: How to Get Internet in an RV or Camper
If you're wondering how to get Internet inside your campervan, you're in the right place! We’ve created a guide that goes over all different campervan WiFi options (for all budgets and Internet needs).
25 Campervan Gifts that are Practical & Fun
Searching for the perfect gift for your favorite vanlifer?! We’ve rounded up some of our favorite campervan essentials that would make super fun and practical gifts for vanlife. This guide is full of campervan gift ideas for all budgets and needs!
Van Conversion Cost: Complete Price Breakdown
“How much did your campervan cost?” is usually the first question we are asked about van life. We’re breaking down all our expenses for our campervan build. We also highlight cheaper ways to convert a van if you have a tight budget and showing off some bougie upgrades that are...
Living in a Van: Best Parts of Campervan Life
Why the heck would someone want to live in a van?! Oh, we’ll tell you! We have built two campervans and are sharing all the best parts of van life (and some of the not-so-pretty parts too!).
19 Eco Friendly Road Trip Tips
Taking a road trip can be a great way to travel, but it can also take a toll on the environment. Luckily, there are many small things we can do to make our road trips more sustainable and eco-friendly. Let's all do our best to minimize our footprint and keep...
Van Living: Honest Advice & Tips from Vanlifers
From a converted ambulance and an old school bus, to a seriously luxurious campervan and a classic RV, these interviews prove that anyone can make van life a reality - whether you’re a digital nomad, a small business owner or a family of five. Each person we interviewed shares the...
Road Trip Budget & Daily Costs of Vanlife
Traveling across the USA in a campervan can be a great way to see the country on a tight budget. Living in a van means you don’t need to spend money at hotels or expensive restaurants, plus, you can easily get off the beaten path. We kept track of everything...
DIY Campervan Kitchen for less than $50
A DIY campervan conversion just isn’t complete without a working kitchen. Check out our step-by-step tutorial that walks you through everything you need to make your own DIY kitchen for your campervan or RV, complete with a working sink, stove, storage and counter space for chopping all those fresh veggies!
DIY Campervan Bed Frame with Built-in Storage
When making your own DIY campervan conversion, one of the most important things to think about is how to make the bed. It's what you’ll be sleeping in, after all! We have put together a step-by-step tutorial that walks you through how to make your very own DIY bed frame...
A Day in the Life: Living in a Campervan
We’re brining you along on a day in the life of living in a campervan. Join us in this vlog-style video as we cook meals, explore Mount Baker Wilderness and just live a normal day in Vinny the van!
20 Questions to Ask Your Partner Before Moving into a Campervan
Before you even consider moving into a campervan or RV with your partner, discussing these questions is a must. You'll thank us later. Tiny living comes with its own set of unique struggles and compromises, and you'll want to know what you're committing to before moving into a 6-by-13-foot home...
Van Life Q&A: All You Need To Know About Campervan Life
Have you ever wondered what it's like to live on the road in a campervan?! We can tell you from firsthand experience that #vanlife is pretty dang amazing. But I'm sure you've got tons of questions, right? Check out our Q&A video and this article where we answer all your...
How to Shower While Living in a Campervan
We'll show you how we get clean while living in our van. And you know what?! It's a lot easier than you think.
Campervan Video Tour – A Quick Peek Into Our Adorable Home
Come inside our cute little campervan conversion that we'll be living in this summer. There are some features we added that I bet will surprise you.
We Bought A House!
After 3 years of living a semi-nomadic lifestyle, we've taken the plunge and bought a little place to call our own. It might not be quite what you're imagining though... Come take a look.