As van conversions have become more popular, concerns with safety and vanlife have risen. While there are certainly many benefits to the lifestyle, such as greater freedom and flexibility, it is important to thoroughly consider the safety implications relative to your personal situation before embarking on the adventure. Jump to resources.
First and foremost, it is important to recognize that vanlife can be safe, but it’s not without its risks. Just like any other form of travel or living arrangement, there are potential dangers that must be taken into account. Some of the most common safety concerns associated with vanlife include:
Crime and vanlife
Living in a van can make you more vulnerable to theft or other crimes, particularly if you are parked in an area that is not well-lit or frequented by other people.
For example, according to data from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), theft of recreational vehicles (RVs) has been on the rise in recent years. In 2020, there were 5,310 reported RV thefts in the United States, up from 4,499 in 2019. While this data does not specifically break down thefts of vans or other types of vehicles used for vanlife, it does suggest that the risk of theft is a valid concern for those living or traveling in a vehicle. Although in the grand scheme of vanlife, these numbers may be small, they repesent a narrow scope of vanlife related to vehicle theft and don't capture ancillary crime such as theft of items from vanlifers - at the very least, theft and general crime is something vanlifers should be aware of and prepared for.
Accidents while living in a van
Driving a van can be more challenging than driving a car, particularly if you are not used to handling a larger vehicle. Additionally, living in a van can increase your risk of being involved in an accident, as you may spend more time on the road.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2021 there were 42,915 fatalities as a result of traffic crashes. While this number is not specific to living in a van, it suggests the greatest risk to safety related to vanlife are accidents or car crashes. This is especially clear when you consider the amount of time vanlifers spend on the road driving or traveling.
Weather is a real safety concern for vanlifers
Depending on where you are living or traveling, you may be exposed to extreme weather conditions that could pose a safety risk. For example, living in a van during a heatwave could put you at risk of dehydration or heatstroke. On the other end of the spectrum, skiers chasing powder while living in a van may be more at risk for accidents, getting stuck in the middle of nowhere, or sickness if their vans aren’t equipped well enough for the extreme cold.
Good health is part of living a safe lifestyle on the road
Living in a van can also impact your physical and mental health, particularly if your van build doesn’t allow you to maintain a regular routine or access basic amenities like running water and a bathroom. Also keep in mind when living in a van and traveling off the grid that health and emergencies may not be as readily available. Plan ahead to make sure you’re fully prepared for the worst case scenario.
That being said, there are also many ways to mitigate these risks and ensure that vanlife is a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips for staying safe while living in a van:
Choose your parking spots carefully
When parking your van, make sure to choose well-lit, high-traffic areas that are unlikely to attract criminal activity. It is also a good idea to avoid parking in the same spot for extended periods of time, as this can make you more vulnerable to theft or vandalism. It may be helpful to congregate overnight in areas near other vanlifers who can provide guidance or help if necessary.
Keep your van secure
Invest in a high-quality locking system for your van and make sure to keep your doors and windows locked at all times. You may also want to install a security system or camera to deter potential thieves. Some people take security several steps further, using interior chains and bolts to fasten their doors manually when not in the vehicle. Be sure to also consider how secure the items on your van’s exterior are - for instance, do you have a bike on the back of your van? Are your solar panels easy to remove?
Practice safe driving
Make sure to take extra precautions when driving your van, particularly in unfamiliar areas or challenging conditions like heavy traffic or bad weather. Consider taking a defensive driving course or practicing in an empty parking lot before hitting the open road. Given that this is your home on wheels, it’s worth taking an extra few minutes to your destination to mitigate the risk of crashes.
Prepare for emergencies
Make sure to carry a first aid kit, emergency supplies like food and water, and a charged cell phone with you at all times. It is also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the local emergency services and have a plan in place in case of an accident or other emergency.
Prioritize your health
Living in a van can take a toll on your physical and mental health, so it is important to prioritize self-care. Make sure to eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and take breaks to rest and recharge when needed.
Stay connected
Living in a van can be isolating, so it is important to stay connected with friends and family. Make use of technology like social media (check out related community resources), video calls, and messaging apps to stay in touch with loved ones. This is especially important when traveling off the grid, or embarking on a dangerous adventure - be sure to let someone know what you’re doing and when you’re expected to return.
Learn from others
There is a vibrant community of vanlifers out there, so take advantage of their knowledge and experience. Join online forums, attend meetups, and talk to other vanlifers to learn tips and tricks for staying safe and enjoying life on the road.
Keep a low profile
Try to blend in and avoid drawing attention to yourself. Don't leave expensive items in plain sight and avoid playing loud music or making noise late at night.
It is also important to recognize that different countries and regions have their own unique safety concerns when it comes to vanlife.
For example, in some areas, wild animals may pose a threat to your safety, while in others, extreme weather conditions like snowstorms or hurricanes may be a more pressing concern. Before embarking on your vanlife adventure, it is important to research the area you plan to visit and prepare accordingly.
Another important factor to consider when it comes to vanlife safety is the condition of your vehicle.
Regular maintenance and upkeep are essential for ensuring that your van is in good working order and free from safety hazards. Make sure to check your vehicle's brakes, tires, and other essential components regularly and address any issues promptly.
Consider the safety implications of your van build.
For example, if you plan to use a propane stove for cooking, make sure to follow proper safety protocols to avoid the risk of fire or carbon monoxide poisoning. If you plan to install a heater or other heating source, make sure it is properly ventilated and does not pose a fire hazard. Make sure to test your propane, heater and electrical systems thoroughly before hitting the road permanently.
Consider the legal and regulatory aspects of vanlife safety.
Different areas may have their own rules and regulations regarding parking, camping, and other aspects of vanlife. Make sure to research local laws and regulations before setting up camp and follow them accordingly to avoid fines or legal trouble.
In conclusion, vanlife can be a safe way to explore the world and live life on your own terms. However, it is important to take safety concerns seriously and take steps to mitigate potential risks. By following these tips and being mindful of safety issues, you can enjoy all the benefits of vanlife without putting yourself in unnecessary danger.
Where can I find first-hand experience from vanlifers related to safety?
Reddit is a great start:
Comments