Van Life – What Does It Mean?
Van life is a concept that revolves around living and travelling in a campervan, motor home, or RV. This unconventional lifestyle offers flexibility and mobility, allowing people to explore and enjoy the raw beauty of nature.
Van life has grown in popularity in Australia, particularly among people who want to escape the confines of traditional living. The promise of freedom, adventure, and connection to nature are the appealing aspects of living in a four-wheel home. By living and travelling in a van, individuals and families can explore diverse landscapes, camp in picturesque locations, and experience the thrill of the open road – an interesting way to live and explore.
Types of Vans Suitable for Australian Conditions
If you plan to live in van and explore the diverse terrains across the country, you need a vehicle that can support you on all types of routes!
Here are three popular types of vans suitable for Australian conditions:
Conversion Vans
Conversion vans are standard vans modified for comfortable living. These vehicles usually have all the basic amenities you may require for long-term travel, such as comfortable sleeping space, kitchen facilities, and even compartments and cabinets for storing things.
Conversion vans are versatile. They can be easily customized to meet the specific needs of the traveller. They offer a good combination of comfort and functionality, making them an excellent option for van lifers.
Camper Vans
Camper vans are dream vehicles for van lifers. They are specifically designed for camping and travel. They come fully equipped with sleeping arrangements, a kitchen, water tanks, and bathroom facilities. Getting on a camper van for your van life ensures you have a hassle-free experience. Moreover, camper vans can easily navigate tight spaces and urban areas.
4WD Vans
Although camper vans are comfortable and convenient, they are not particularly ideal for rough roads. If you wish to venture off the beaten path, 4WD vans are the most suitable option.
4WD vans or four-wheel-drive vans have superior traction, a powerful engine, and a strong chassis. These advanced features allow 4WD vans to tackle rugged terrain and remote locations effectively. These vans can handle muddy roads, sandy deserts, and rocky mountainous areas. They can also accommodate camping gear, making them suitable for both day trips and extended journeys.
Popular Routes and Destinations in Australia for Van Lifers
With its stunning landscapes and unique attractions, Australia is a perfect destination for those embracing van life. Here are some popular routes and destinations you can explore in the country while travelling in a van.
The Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road is an iconic drive in Australia. This beautiful coastal drive offers breathtaking views of the ocean, cliffs, and rainforests. While driving through this route, you can witness:
- Twelve Apostles are stacks of stunning limestone located along the Great Ocean Road. They rise dramatically from the Southern Ocean and are known for their breathtaking views during sunrise and sunset.
- Lorne and Apollo Bay: Visit these charming coastal towns, explore the beautiful sandy beaches, savour mouthwatering dishes at the local eateries, and witness the stunning waterfalls.
- Great Otway National Park is a spectacular natural reserve located along the coast of Victoria. The rugged coastlines, lush rainforests, scenic walking trails, and picturesque waterfalls make it heaven for van life enthusiasts.
The Pacific Coast Highway
To make your van life a memorable event, you can travel from Sydney to Brisbane along the Pacific Coast Highway. Along your drive, you can enjoy beautiful beaches and vibrant towns. Here are some places you must explore when travelling along this route.
- Gold Coast is apopular coastal city for its theme parks and vibrant nightlife. Moreover, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of lush rainforests and explore the diverse hiking trails, adding a bit of adventure and relaxation to your trip.
- Coffs Harbour is home to the famous Big Banana amusement park. Travellers can also indulge in a range of outdoor activities, including surfing, hiking, and fishing, in the nearby parks.
The Outback Adventure
Van lifers looking to explore the heart of Australia must go on a trip to the Outback. Some iconic destinations you should explore while travelling in a van include:
- Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is a massive sandstone monolith located in the heart of the Northern Territory of Australia. Visit the place during sunrise and sunset to enhance your van life experience.
- Kings Canyon is a spectacular gorge in Watarrka National Park. In addition to exploring the hiking trails, travellers can enjoy stunning views of towering cliffs and red rock walls.
- Alice Springs is a central Australian town where visitors can explore the rugged landscapes, go hiking, and venture into the deserts.
Preparing for Van Life
Embarking on a van life journey requires proper planning. Careful planning makes your trip comfortable and enjoyable.
Here are key considerations on how to start planning for your van life journey.
Choosing the Right Van
A van will be your travelling companion from the start to the end. Choosing an appropriate vehicle requires careful consideration. Here are certain important factors that you must consider when choosing a vehicle for your van life.
- Size and Layout: Selecting a vehicle with an appropriate size and layout is crucial for maximizing comfort and functionality. Consider how many people will be travelling with you, and then evaluate the space you will need for sleeping, cooking, and relaxing. A larger van may provide more living space, but a smaller van is easier to maneuver and park in urban areas.
- Fuel Efficiency: You will be spending a significant amount of time on the road, which means you need a fuel-efficient vehicle. Look for vans that offer good mileage, as this can help you save money on gas during your travels and allow for longer trips without frequent refuelling.
- Customization Options: One of the joys of van life is the ability to customize your living space to fit your personal style and needs. Consider vans that you can easily modify. Look for vans that allow you to install kitchen cabinets, stoves, beds, or storage solutions. This customization will help you create a functional and comfortable environment in your van.
Essential Equipment and Supplies
In addition to an appropriate vehicle, you will need essential equipment to make your van life venture a smooth and comfortable adventure.
- Cooking Gear
A well-equipped kitchen is vital for preparing meals on the road. So, you need to pack a portable stove, cookware, utensils, and a cooler or refrigerator for food storage. To save space in your van, consider compact, multi-functional items. With proper kitchen equipment, you can enjoy healthy, home-cooked meals during your adventures.
- Sleeping Setup
A restful sleep after a day of exploration in the wild is needed to recharge your body! Get a fixed bed, a convertible sofa or a foldable mattress for your van. Ensure you have quality bedding and pillows to create a cozy atmosphere in your van. With a proper sleeping area, you can enjoy all the perks of van life without straining your body.
- Storage Solutions
Efficient storage is key to maintaining a tidy living space in a van. Use shelves and hanging organizers to keep your belongings organized and easily accessible. Consider versatile storage options that can serve multiple purposes, allowing you to maximize the limited space in your van.
- Power and Energy Needs
Assess your power requirements based on the devices and appliances you plan to use. Consider installing a power solar generator or a power backup battery system to keep your electronics charged. A reliable battery backup generator for caravan will also provide energy for cooking or lighting and allow you to stay comfortable during your adventure.
- Health and Safety Considerations
Maintaining health and safety while living on the road is necessary. Ensure your van is equipped with necessary safety features, such as smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Maintain and inspect your vehicle regularly to prevent breakdowns while on the road.
- First Aid Kit
A well-stocked first aid kit is crucial for addressing minor injuries and medical emergencies while travelling. Include items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary prescription medications. Also, familiarize yourself with basic first aid techniques. It will help you stay prepared for any emergency when on the road.
- Fire Extinguishers
Having a fire extinguisher on hand is essential for safety. Choose a compact, easy-to-use fire extinguisher suitable for putting out kitchen fires. Regularly check its expiration date and ensure that it is easily accessible in case of an emergency.
- Emergency Communication Devices
Carry reliable communication devices with you to enhance safety during your van life adventures. You must have a mobile phone with a backup battery, a satellite phone for remote areas, and a two-way radio for communication with fellow travellers. These devices provide peace of mind and also ensure that you can call for help in case of an emergency.
Precautions and Challenges of Van Life
Here are some things to consider before starting your trip in the van.
- Weather and Seasonal Challenges: During your van life adventure, you will encounter various weather conditions, such as extreme heat, cold temperatures, rainy days, and windy nights. So, make proper arrangements for surviving the changing climates.
- Maintenance and Repairs: Regular maintenance of your van ensures it stays in good working condition throughout the trip. Routine oil changes and brake inspections prevent breakdowns. Make sure you are familiar with basic repairs, as finding a mechanic in remote areas might be difficult.
- Loneliness: If you are travelling solo, you may feel lonely during your van life. To combat loneliness and foster connections, you can build a community through social media, join van life groups, or attend gatherings.
- Financial Planning and Income Generation: Make a budget for ongoing expenses such as fuel, insurance, and maintenance. Find reliable sources of income, such as remote work or seasonal jobs, to support your lifestyle. This will provide you with financial stability while living on the road.\
Powering Your Adventure with Jackery
Jackery offers innovative solar generators that can seamlessly enhance your van life experience. These reliable and portable power solutions can power all essential devices when exploring the untapped roads of Australia. Here are two models best for van life adventures:
Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus
The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus is a compact powerhouse perfect for wild adventures. It has a capacity of 1264Wh and a robust 2000W output, allowing the generator to support almost all basic electronic devices. Its expandable capacity is the defining feature; you can add up to three additional battery packs and expand the storage capacity to up to 5kWh. With this increased capacity, travellers have backup power for up to three days.
With ultra-fast solar charging capabilities, the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus can recharge in just 4.5 hours using four SolarSaga 100W solar panels, making it ideal for van life adventures. The generator also supports wall and car charging, making it easy to power your adventures no matter where the road takes you. Moreover, the long-lasting LiFePO4 battery cells bring safety and durability to the generator, allowing it to last for up to 10 years.
Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus
The Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus is designed for adventurers seeking extended van life. The generator has an impressive expandable capacity of up to 12kWh, which means it can power your devices for an entire week without needing to recharge. It supports up to five add-on battery packs, making it a reliable option for explorers going to the deep parts of the country.
Safety is a top priority for van lifers. This UL-certified solar generator is equipped with innovative ChargeShield Technology that ensures safe charging for all your valuable devices. Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus supports multiple charging options, including solar charging with six SolarSaga 100W solar panels in six hours, wall charging, and car charging. Not to forget, the generator offers whisper-quiet operation, emission-free, and fast solar charging, making it ideal for van life and other outdoor adventures.
Conclusion
Van life in Australia offers a unique blend of adventure, freedom, and connection with nature. Whether you wish to explore stunning coastal routes or vibrant towns, the journey in a van can be a rewarding experience.
By carefully selecting the right van and preparing well for the challenges along the way, you can create unforgettable memories on the open road. So, hit the highway and embark on your own van life adventure with Jackery’s power solar generators now!
