This post is a playful rundown I’ll use to link out to more realistic and thoughtful articles on the process of starting afresh.
To begin: do some serious stalking – dive headfirst into the exciting world of van life by obsessively stalking van lifers on social media, reading their blogs and books, and watching their YouTube videos.
Figure out what kind of vehicle floats your boat and fits your budget. Don’t forget to brush up on the rules and regulations of van dwelling in your dream destinations. No one wants to get busted for illegal parking.
Downsizing dilemmas.
Prepare to downsize your life like a boss. Assess your belongings and decide which ones are worth keeping, selling, donating, or burning in a ceremonial bonfire (just kidding, maybe).
Host a killer garage sale or become an online sales guru to get some extra cash and get rid of stuff.
Money matters.
Save up enough to buy your dream ride, cover insurance, make mods, and have some emergency reserve in case the van gods decide to be cruel.
Get your financials in order by creating a budget for ongoing expenses like fuel, maintenance, food (because let’s be real, you still gotta eat), and the occasional campsite fee.
Find Your Ride.
Hunt down the perfect van or motorhome that will become your new BFF (Best Freedom Finder). Size matters, so choose one that fits your needs and doesn’t make you stoop or feel claustrophobic. Check under the hood, kick the tires, and make sure it won’t break down on you. Nobody’s got time or money for constant repairs.
Getting Legal, Van-Style:
Make sure you’re on the right side of the law by figuring out all the registration and insurance jazz for your four-wheeled home. No one wants to deal with traffic cops raining on your nomadic parade. Don’t forget to find a reliable address to receive and forward your mail, update your driver’s license and or get a virtual mailbox.
Breaking Up with Your Job:
Time to ditch the 9-to-5 grind! Choose a dramatic departure date and let your boss know that you’re breaking up with your job. Break the news gently, or go out with a bang.
Getting Ready for Van Life Rockstar Status:
Set up your van home with all the essentials: a cosy bed, a tiny kitchen, storage options and some solar panels.
Learn the basics of vehicle maintenance and stock up on the basic spares and tools, so you don’t end up stranded on some deserted road with only a cane-toad for company.
Research the best routes, must-see destinations, and the sweetest camping spots.
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This is just a light-hearted take on the steps involved in transitioning to van life.
We’ll have a more serious look at some of these steps as I get time to write them!
Have fun, embrace the adventure, and don’t forget to pack your sense of humour along with your socks and underwear!
