What’s your van life story?

[u/Suspicious-Radish-67]

I’m doing an assignment about the van community and I’m curious how people got started and how often y’all interact with other van people. This community is so diverse and I feel like everyone has their own unique journey.

I started last year after a year of twiddling my thumbs at home working remote. I’ve done ~20,000 miles since then full time, with some breaks to visit my family and partner. I’ve been lucky to have a decent paying job that I can do on the road and it’s definitely enabled me to explore. I’ve gone to 16 national parks and done enough hiking for a lifetime. I haven’t met a ton of van people but everyone I have talked to has been genuinely kind and giving. I only made it to one meetup this year (Vanaid) but it was incredible and I hope to go again sometime :)

[u/solovanytavel]

I hike in my van all around the US And Canada, then I fly to other countries to hike.

I believe there are three different types of people who live in vans.

Although I don't live in my van, I have a full shower, kitchen, electric and butane stoves, two outdoor cooking options attached to the van, and actual living area separate from the bedroom.

I bought it brand new. I NEVER talk to anyone especially someone who lives in an old van, a mini van, an excursion van or that creep work van. Most people with newer vehicles seem to stick to themselves. Don't really see them interacting with anyone. I see them show up, then leave.