Interesting ideas that make sense for some people. The initial cost of the van and conversion, especially in areas that have few long-term RV spots, might be daunting, but the math can work out for people who are minimalists (if you want to keep your sanity) and enjoy the flexibility.
Ironically, the more people take advantage of that, the lower housing prices would go due to slumping demand. It probably wouldn't catch up to salaries but it would be helpful.
What would bother me (as a retired but still nerdy accountant) is ongoing expenses - insurance, repairs, fuel - for the van plus the cost of ultimately replacing it when repairs are no longer economical. Year by year you would either need to take into account depreciation on the van or - more use from a practical point of view - save each month towards the next van. I think this is where the van living plan can fall over.
Im Not a teacher or writer but I do work from home that said require 3 22” monitors and solid internet so I’m looking at this lifestyle for possibly after retirement. My biggest concern is the cost of a van and what to do with all my ‘stuff’ which currently takes up a 2/2 duplex plus 2 10x20 storage units. Short of getting rid of everything (not likely) I will probably need another storage unit and eventually have to downsize even more than I already have and find something more permanent. It seems daunting but your post is encouraging at least
I’ve thoughts but this as a serious option. My 1 and only reason for it investigating further is the fact that I live in the North east and am quite concerned about winter. I think I would love this as an introvert, minimalist, and homebody who also likes to travel.
I have middle aged and older Canadian friends who are doing the van-life option--problem is our Canadian winter isn't conducive to living in a vehicle--and we don't want to go 'down south' anymore. My solution for four years now is a fixed in place 'park model home' bought second hand at a very reasonable price in a small trailer park by a lake. It's only open from May to October and in winter, I do pet and housesitting---and save my pennies to spend time in Spain. It's barely doable financially but gives me both a home and an escape from winter. I'm a writer so my seniors govt pension and a bit of freelance income has to cover everything. How long I can manage it, remains to be seen but so far so good! I write about life, politics and travel at Tiny Home, Bigger Life on Substack.
Good morning from Australia! Your article resonates so much with me, home affordability in Australia is definitely out of reach for our younger generation and a lead weight of mortgage repayments for those that raise enough for a deposit. The cost of vans in Australia is just as out of reach however. The overall math would place the van life in front.
I look forward to reading your articles as I plan our transition to van life.
Thank you for your research filled article and recognising that our way of life may have to change.
Thank you Lee for your comment. Van life is better when you keep it simple. You can live with far less than you think you can. I would suggest that you have a hobby or some form of entertainment while living in tight spaces, such as a van or a car. You will feel more comfortable and learn to like being outdoors more. Nature is uplifting for our spirits. Anyway, good luck while transitioning to van life.
Living in a van has been in my thoughts. My only concern is that I’m very tall, 6 ft. I already camp in a tent, and live an outdoor lifestyle not full time. But, my tent allows me to stand up, the van would not. My research shows that most women are short that live in vans. Am I missing something? Let me know.
Trust me, I've thought about it way more than I should have. Both for the practicality AND the adventure of it.
Interesting ideas that make sense for some people. The initial cost of the van and conversion, especially in areas that have few long-term RV spots, might be daunting, but the math can work out for people who are minimalists (if you want to keep your sanity) and enjoy the flexibility.
Ironically, the more people take advantage of that, the lower housing prices would go due to slumping demand. It probably wouldn't catch up to salaries but it would be helpful.
Think of it as alternative housing.
I just hope they find community
What would bother me (as a retired but still nerdy accountant) is ongoing expenses - insurance, repairs, fuel - for the van plus the cost of ultimately replacing it when repairs are no longer economical. Year by year you would either need to take into account depreciation on the van or - more use from a practical point of view - save each month towards the next van. I think this is where the van living plan can fall over.
I would love to do this. But I do have a place to live and we are managing right now.
that's good to hear.
Im Not a teacher or writer but I do work from home that said require 3 22” monitors and solid internet so I’m looking at this lifestyle for possibly after retirement. My biggest concern is the cost of a van and what to do with all my ‘stuff’ which currently takes up a 2/2 duplex plus 2 10x20 storage units. Short of getting rid of everything (not likely) I will probably need another storage unit and eventually have to downsize even more than I already have and find something more permanent. It seems daunting but your post is encouraging at least
I’ve thoughts but this as a serious option. My 1 and only reason for it investigating further is the fact that I live in the North east and am quite concerned about winter. I think I would love this as an introvert, minimalist, and homebody who also likes to travel.
Maybe you should give it a try and travel south where the weather is warm.
I have middle aged and older Canadian friends who are doing the van-life option--problem is our Canadian winter isn't conducive to living in a vehicle--and we don't want to go 'down south' anymore. My solution for four years now is a fixed in place 'park model home' bought second hand at a very reasonable price in a small trailer park by a lake. It's only open from May to October and in winter, I do pet and housesitting---and save my pennies to spend time in Spain. It's barely doable financially but gives me both a home and an escape from winter. I'm a writer so my seniors govt pension and a bit of freelance income has to cover everything. How long I can manage it, remains to be seen but so far so good! I write about life, politics and travel at Tiny Home, Bigger Life on Substack.
Good morning from Australia! Your article resonates so much with me, home affordability in Australia is definitely out of reach for our younger generation and a lead weight of mortgage repayments for those that raise enough for a deposit. The cost of vans in Australia is just as out of reach however. The overall math would place the van life in front.
I look forward to reading your articles as I plan our transition to van life.
Thank you for your research filled article and recognising that our way of life may have to change.
Thank you Lee for your comment. Van life is better when you keep it simple. You can live with far less than you think you can. I would suggest that you have a hobby or some form of entertainment while living in tight spaces, such as a van or a car. You will feel more comfortable and learn to like being outdoors more. Nature is uplifting for our spirits. Anyway, good luck while transitioning to van life.
Living in a van has been in my thoughts. My only concern is that I’m very tall, 6 ft. I already camp in a tent, and live an outdoor lifestyle not full time. But, my tent allows me to stand up, the van would not. My research shows that most women are short that live in vans. Am I missing something? Let me know.