Garrett Erickson

What types of items do I need to live in a van?

Living in a van can be a unique and exciting way to experience the world, but it also requires careful consideration of the items and equipment needed to make the most out of the limited space.

We won’t recommend or try to sell you on individual products in this post, but here are a few categories of items to think about before hitting the road:

Cooking equipment

What you need for cooking depends what you’ve already built into your van. That said, a portable stove, fuel, cookware, utensils, and a portable cooler can be essential for preparing meals on the road. If you plan to cook often, consider investing in a propane stove or a portable induction cooktop and fridge. We’d also recommend reusable plates, bowls, and utensils to save on waste. If you're planning on staying in areas without access to grocery stores or restaurants, consider stocking up on non-perishable foods and snacks that are easy to store and prepare. Depending on how much you plan to cook, think about your standard kitchen equipment including mugs, knives, cooking spoons / spatulas, pasta strainers, cutting boards, bottle openers, tupperware, pans, mixing bowls, etc. For cooking equipment, bring only what you thing you’ll actually use and need - having excess plates, bowls, utensil, etc. will only encourage excess dirty dishes which can accumulate quickly.

Water storage and filtration

Clean drinking water is crucial for van life, and this requires a system for storing and filtering water. Items you’ll need in this category depend on the complexity of plumbing / filtration that you’ve already installed. That said, consider purchasing a water storage container with a spigot or a water pump that can easily dispense water. Even if you have a comprehensive plumbing system installed, it may help to have an emergency 5-gallon container that is a bit more portable. Some people appreciate the option to attach an electric pump (which are usually relatively affordable) to the standard containers. For filtering, options range from simple water bottles with filters to more advanced filtration systems such as gravity-fed filters or UV water purifiers. Consider keeping iodine tablets or purification that can be used on a portable basis for emergencies. Water bottles are a given, but don’t forget them!

Power source

Again, this depends on what you’ve installed already in your van (solar panels, batteries, etc.). Generally, a power source such as a battery, generator, or solar panels is necessary for running lights, charging devices, and powering appliances. Solar panels can be a great option for van dwellers who want to live off the grid, but they can be expensive. If you haven’t installed a full electrical system, think about bringing along a portable battery and portable solar panels to charge your devices and/or appliances. On a smaller scale, it may be helpful to have mini-battery banks to charge your phones, cameras and laptops. Many people find portable inverters to be handy on the road (even if you have a full-scale inverter in your electrical system) to use for charging devices while driving or sitting in the front cabin. Finally, is there anything you’re bringing that you might need traditional batteries for (ex. flashlight)?

Bathroom supplies

Depending on the van setup, a portable toilet or a gym membership may be necessary for bathroom needs. Portable toilets can be purchased or rented, and there are various types available, including composting toilets and cassette toilets. If a portable toilet is not feasible, consider purchasing a gym membership or using public restrooms. Given you may be taking care of business in a small space, think about any hygiene solutions that may be helpful along the way (cleaning wipes, smell-proof trash bags, scented sprays, hand sanitizer, etc.).

Storage solutions

Space is limited in a van, so efficient storage solutions such as bins, shelves, and hanging organizers can help keep everything organized and easily accessible. Consider using stackable storage containers that can fit snugly in small spaces, and use storage nets or bungee cords to keep loose items from shifting while driving. These types of solutions will highly differ for each build, so we’ll leave you to it - but definitely something to consider.

Clothing and personal items

Pack versatile and comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather and activities you plan to engage in. Personal items such as toiletries, towels, and hygiene products are also important. Consider investing in lightweight and quick-drying travel towels, and bring a variety of clothing that can be layered for warmth or removed for cooler temperatures.

Entertainment

Remember, while you may be chasing outdoor experiences, there are going to be days when you’re too tired or the weather won’t let you. Books, board games, and other forms of entertainment can be helpful for passing the time on rainy days or during downtime. Consider bringing a portable device for streaming movies or TV shows, or download podcasts or audiobooks for entertainment on the go. Think about what hobbies you have when living outside of a van - chances are, there’s a way to make them work inside a van as well, you just have to be creative.

Safety equipment

This is a really key area that many people gloss over - don’t. You never know what you’ll run into on the road and it’s best to be fully prepared. First-aid kit, fire extinguisher, emergency contact information, and any other safety equipment that may be necessary. Keep a first-aid kit stocked with essential items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. Install a fire extinguisher in an easily accessible location, and make sure everyone in the van knows how to use it. Keep a list of emergency contacts and important information such as medical conditions, allergies, and medications. If you’re cooking in the van, make sure to have all appropriate sensors in your van (propane, carbon monoxide, etc.).

Vehicle maintenance tools

A set of basic tools, such as wrenches, pliers, and screwdrivers, can be useful for simple repairs and maintenance on the van. Additionally, make sure to keep a spare tire, tire jack, and tire iron on hand in case of a flat tire. Consider investing in a tire pressure monitoring system to ensure that your tires are properly inflated and avoid any unexpected blowouts.

Communication devices

Having a reliable method of communication is essential for safety and peace of mind while on the road. If you’re planning to really go off-grid, consider investing in a satellite phone, a portable two-way radio, or a personal locator beacon (PLB) in case of emergency situations where cellular service may not be available.

Navigation tools

While smartphones and GPS systems can be helpful, it's important to have backup navigation tools such as a paper map or a compass in case of a dead battery or signal loss. Additionally, consider purchasing a weather radio to stay informed about any weather-related emergencies or advisories.

Cleaning supplies

Keeping your van clean and organized is important for maintaining a comfortable living space. Consider bringing basic cleaning supplies such as all-purpose cleaner, disinfectant wipes, trash bags, and a broom and dustpan. You may also want to bring a portable vacuum cleaner or a handheld dustbuster to clean up any messes quickly.

Outdoor gear

If you plan to spend time outdoors (you totally should), bring appropriate gear such as hiking boots, backpacks, and camping equipment. Consider investing in a portable camping stove and cooking supplies for outdoor meals. Additionally, bring a portable chair or a hammock for relaxing outside.

Bedding / Sleeping

Of course a comfortable and durable bed is necessary for a good night's sleep, but this is even more critical on the road after a long day of driving or hiking. Your mattress largely depends on the complexity of your van build, but can be a simple mattress, a sleeping pad, or a combination of both. If you have limited space, consider using a bed (or building a platform) that can be converted to a sofa or a storage space during the day. Think carefully about the blankets and pillows you bring on the road. Given the likelihood of encountering differing extremes of temperatures, along with a limited amount of space, you’ll want highly effective, yet low-profile blankets. Pillows and comforters that can compress into small spaces (and even be vacuum sealed) are beneficial within a van, but in the end, don’t sacrifice your comfort too much. Each person’s decision on bedding will differ. For emergency situations, it may be helpful to have a sleeping bag on hand. Sleeping in a van can be more difficult due to the noise - think, do you need earplugs?

Overall, living in a van requires careful consideration of the items and equipment needed to create a comfortable and functional living space. While the items listed above may not be an exhaustive list, they provide a good starting point for anyone considering a van lifestyle. With some planning and preparation, living in a van can be an incredible adventure full of new experiences and unforgettable memories.

Where can I find first-hand experience related to essential items in a custom van?

Reddit is a great start:

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