There's no greater feeling of freedom than waking up at sunrise, putting your slippery feet on the dewy grass, soaking in the early morning light and morning silence as you wait for the coffee to percolate over the camp stove. there is no. I'm lucky enough to start most days like this as a full-time vanlifer.
For three years, I traveled throughout the United States, Canada, and New Zealand, living in various campers. I even spent nearly a year circling Australia in a four-wheel-drive vehicle with a rooftop tent attached. My vanlife journey began with a 20-year-old minivan with a modified futon in the back. I've since upgraded to a spacious cargo van with an indoor kitchenette and its own solar power and water system.
Being a long-term camper comes with many challenges. Even basic things like eating, personal hygiene, and keeping warm, cool, and dry take a huge amount of effort. Having good equipment in your arsenal can make a big difference. From portable ceiling fans to self-purifying water bottles to multipurpose microfiber towels to my favorite cupholder-sized speakers, here are 17 items that keep me comfortable, clean, and safe while on the go.
Ydytop Reusable Travel Supplies Set
Amazon
In our quest for convenience, it's easy to fall into the trap of single-use plastics. Personally, I carry a pack of reusable cutlery with me wherever I go because I can't bear to throw away something, even a spoon, after using it once. They are ultra-lightweight and made from environmentally friendly bioplastics (mainly wheat straw). Plus, they're much more practical for camping than solid metal utensils that make a fuss while driving or weigh down your luggage when packing for a picnic.
REI Coop Multi Towel Lite
spirit
While you may not be able to keep things as clean as you would like while camping, you can at least keep them dry. Microfiber towels are absolutely, 100% a must-have. A must, especially on sunny days when you can't hang your towels on an outdoor clothesline. I like to hang it inside my van or tent on rainy days and it dries in a few hours. Microfiber towels are not only useful for drying off after a shower, they're also useful for cleaning spills in the kitchen, wiping down improvised picnic blankets, and cleaning the windows of your van.
Victorinox Swiss Army Huntsman Pocket Knife
Amazon
Like the classic Victorinox Swiss Army Knife, the multitool combines the functions of a can opener, corkscrew, bottle popper, screwdriver, utility knife, scissors, and more. You won't know you'll need a very small wood saw until you use it. When that happens, you'll be fine with this pocket-sized accessory. Swiss Army knives come in a wide range of sizes and a wide variety of tools. It has 15 features and he is on sale at 24% off on Amazon.
Anker Soundcore Mini, ultra-portable Bluetooth speaker
Amazon
Perfect for listening to audiobooks on long drives or quietly playing Spotify at the campsite, this portable little speaker is ideally compact and lasts for days on a single charge. My van is too old and he doesn't have Bluetooth capability. So what I like about this cylindrical speaker is that it fits perfectly in your cup holder. FM radio settings are also useful for streaming your favorite playlists when you don't have cell service.
Eno double nest hammock
spirit
What is camping without a hammock to hang out in the trees or take a nap in the shade? You can use just about any hammock, but Eno's version is known for being extremely durable and packable. The nylon construction conveniently folds into the included pouch, perfect for cramming into very small nooks and crannies around your van. The strap is not included, so don't forget to bring it with you.
Campsuds Outdoor Camp Soap
Amazon
Soap is a hot topic in the camping world. According to Leave No Trace, the leading authority on sustainable outdoor recreation, it is “unacceptable to put soap in water sources” because the chemicals can alter minerals in the water and harm wildlife. “This also applies to disposing of soap directly on the ground.” Ground. With this in mind, always catch soapy water and dispose of it in a designated dumpster, or at least in the sink or toilet. I like to use natural, biodegradable, multi-purpose soaps whenever possible. Campsuds can be used on dishes, skin, clothing, and even hair.
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240
Amazon
There's something special about unplugging for the weekend, but when you live outdoors full-time, you need power to charge your phone, headphones, lights, and camera equipment. I work remotely and need a reliable portable battery for my laptop. Jackery Power Stations are the best (best ever). It has two USB ports and a standard AC outlet, which can be used at the same time. I use Jackery's solar panel to charge it, but you can also plug it into a wall or car lighter socket. It's the perfect entry-level powerhouse and a great value for the price (and it's currently on double sale thanks to on-site coupons).
Teva Unisex ReEmber Slip-On Shoes
spirit
Embracing discomfort is a big part of vanlife and camping in general, but I draw the line at wet feet. These smart Teva camp boots are perfect for slipping into first thing in the morning when it's cold and the grass is covered in dew. Made with a waterproof outer and collapsible heel for quick gliding and kicking. Think of it as a cozy sweater for your feet. It is also made using recycled materials.
Gritin Rechargeable Clip-on Book Light
Amazon
There's nothing more cozy than curling up in your sleeping bag and immersing yourself in a fun story before falling asleep under the stars. The fewer electronic connections, the better when working with limited power or no power at all. This means you'll be reading books on paper instead of on your Kindle. Away from the glow of the city, it gets dark outside, so an old-fashioned book light is a must for your bedtime ritual. We recommend the most popular version from Amazon, as we prefer something that can be quickly charged with a USB cable. It has over 25,000 5-star ratings, comes in a variety of colors, has multiple lighting settings, and costs less than $20.
Craftend Collapsible 10 Liter Bucket
Amazon
I use a collapsible bucket to wash dishes and clothes (again, always dumping the water into the van's gray water tank or the designated dishwashing sink at the campsite), collect firewood and kindling, and , yes, I even take a bath sometimes. You never know when you'll need a bucket. This 10 liter bucket is durable and reliable, and the top handle makes it easy to carry.
Tidewe two-piece rain suit
Amazon
I can see you're making fun of this rain suit. Understood. But when the clouds break and you can't get outside and you're desperately covering things around your campsite, believe me when I say you need full body protection. Without waterproof clothing, you'll have to climb into your tent or van in soaking wet clothes, which will inevitably spread moisture around and make it nearly impossible to clean. It's easiest to get ready for the rain and take off this waterproof shell at the door. The suit's high-density polyester, non-woven fabric and seam seals work together to prevent water ingress and withstand rainfall. However, the suit is breathable enough to wick away sweat if needed. Thoughtful design features protect you from the elements, and the suit can be easily stored in a carrying pouch when not in use.
Kipida 5 Gallon Solar Shower
Amazon
The most frequently asked question about traveling in a van is “Where do I shower?” Personally, I bathe almost every day, wherever I get the chance. When I'm not near a campground or a truck stop with public showers, you'll find me standing in the open in a bathing suit underneath this bag. Honestly, solar showers sound a little more sophisticated than they actually are. Most are simply black bags with a hose and shower head attached. Colors and materials are meant to absorb heat, but some work better than others. I like this one from her Kipida. It comes with a thermometer and a handy pouch to hold soap and other shower accessories, so you'll feel right at home.
Noco Boost Plus GB40 1000A Car Battery Jump Starter
Amazon
Many times I've been stranded on the side of the road because my van's battery died and I had no choice but to signal a stranger to jump out. My family gifted me these portable jump starters because this isn't the safest way to go, especially as a solo female traveler. Now I can work on my own. According to the brand, the powerful 1000-amp lithium battery can provide up to 20 jump starts on a single charge, and the 4.6-inch x 8.2-inch x 4.2-inch frame is small enough that it won't crowd out your valuables. storage space.
G Good Gain Waterproof Picnic Blanket
Amazon
Not all of van life is as glamorous as advertised on Instagram, but we can't lie. Daily picnics are very attractive. Eating breakfast or lunch outdoors is an easy way to make mealtime romantic. Special blankets with waterproof linings like this one from G Good are perfect for keeping everything dry and clean, including your butt. It can be used not only for picnics, but also for relaxing on the beach, outdoor concerts, camping, etc.
BioLite Headlamp 200
Amazon
When going out after dark, it's much more practical to wear a headlamp than to hold a flashlight or cell phone in your hand. Trust me, you'll use it more than you can imagine. When I'm not wearing it on my head, it's attached to the ceiling above my bed or to the cup holder in my van. That means it's always within reach, ready to use when you need it. If you're an outdoorsy person, a headlamp can come in handy when you're hiking, camping, or exploring after dark.
Coleman CPX 6 Lighted Tent Fan with Stand
spirit
Another luxury, this portable Coleman fan kept me cool while camping in the soggy humidity of the Grand Canyon and Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the height of summer. For those who are used to sleeping with the fan on, this is a lifesaver. It requires a single battery, so I think I have enough batteries on hand. You can hang it from the ceiling or place it on a surface using the folding stand. It also has a light in the center, so it looks like a real ceiling fan. It's a functional way to add a homey feel to your van.
Grayl 24 oz GeoPress Water Purifier Bottle
Amazon
A water purification system is essential, even if you only use it in emergencies. You can also pack a LifeStraw or Sawyer filter, but I'm drawn to the convenience of having a water purifier and water bottle in one. According to the brand, the Greyl GeoPress water filter purifies “viruses, protozoa, bacteria, particulates, chemicals, and heavy metals” for peace of mind. You can use it to filter fresh water from a stream, or to check if “supposedly potable” water from a campsite is actually safe to drink.
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