Driving around the country—even the world—in a van is a dream for many people. It represents the opportunity for travel, adventure, and the kind of nomadic life that’s been romanticized and idealized in movies and literature for as long as we can remember.

Of course, the real world is a little different than what we see on the internet or read in books. If you’re looking to join the #vanlife movement, and you want some practical van travel tips, then this guide is for you. Read on to learn what it’s really like traveling in a van full time and what you need to know about living your very best van life.

Choose Your Van Carefully

One of the most important things you’ll need to do as you embark upon your new adventure will of course be buying a van. This is a huge decision that will have a bearing on the success of your trip, so it’s imperative you choose one that will suit your needs.

It’s recommended that you buy an actual camper van rather than a commercial van you then convert. This is because camper vans (like the Winnebago) are much more comfortable for sleeping in. They’re designed for long journeys and for people to sleep and live in, and as such, they’re a much better choice.

Organization Is Key

One of the benefits of traveling in a van is that you get to be spontaneous and live in the moment. Not to burst your bubble, but if you want to have a successful van trip, you’ll need to do at least some planning and organization as well.

Before you leave, do some research about the places you want to hit, even if they’re only rough guidelines. You should also make a checklist of all the items you think you’ll need, and make sure they all fit into your van prior to leaving. Special camping toilet paper and an extra generator are two things you’ll definitely be thankful you brought.

Take a Minimalist Approach

One of the most important van travel tips you’ll hear is to try and pack light. This is for a reason. When you’re adjusting to how to travel in a van, you’ll find that all that extra stuff just gets in the way, and you’ll probably regret a lot of things you packed.

When you’re getting ready for your trip, try to only pack the essentials. When you’re deciding whether to pack something, take a moment and ask yourself, how often will I use this, and do I really need it?

Traveling in a Van: Start Your Adventure Today

Traveling in a van for weeks or months on end can be a daunting prospect. But when you open yourself up to the experience and allow yourself to go with the flow, you’ll find it’s one of the most rewarding and amazing things you’ll ever do. If you’re on the hunt for more travel tips, see the rest of our content now.