Starting our van life adventure wasn’t a decision we made overnight. It took a combination of preparation, planning, and a lot of bravery.
The Steps We Took to Start Our Life on the Road included:
It all began with a shared dream to explore the world in a more meaningful way. We had always loved the idea of traveling long-term but didn’t want the confines of regular tourism. Instead, we wanted the freedom to explore at our own pace, experience new places deeply, and keep life spontaneous. After countless conversations, van life became the obvious choice.
Unlike many van-lifers who purchase or convert a van as their first step, we already had Peanut, our trusty motorhome. We had enjoyed long road trips around Europe with her and knew she was the perfect fit for our dream of a mobile life. With Peanut, the foundation was set – our home on wheels was already ready.
The next major hurdle was downsizing. We quickly realized that while Peanut was cozy, she couldn’t hold all the possessions we had accumulated over the years. We had to get comfortable with the idea of letting go – selling, donating, and minimizing. This wasn’t easy, but each item we parted with brought us closer to the life of freedom we craved.
"Sometimes you need to make hard decisions to enjoy an easier life in the future."
One of the hurdles we still face is figuring out how to work online while traveling full-time. With that in mind, we decided it was financially best to take on seasonal work at campsites. This allows us to sustain our life on the road while exploring different locations. While it’s a challenge we’re still navigating, it’s an exciting part of the journey.
Finally, with everything in place, it was time to take the leap. We mapped out a rough route but knew the beauty of van life would be in its flexibility. Peanut was packed, and we were ready to hit the road. It was a mix of nervousness and excitement as we set off on our new life, knowing that each day would be an adventure.
Because we’re not just here to share the picture-perfect moments (although we have plenty of those, too!). We’re here to share our journey authentically, including the ups and downs, the lessons learned, and the ways we’ve grown along the way. Whether you’re curious about van life, looking for inspiration for your own adventures, or seeking ways to stay healthy and mindful while on the road, we hope our stories give you something meaningful to take away.
We hope our story inspires anyone thinking about a similar lifestyle. Our blog will be filled with stories from our journey – from the day-to-day challenges to the beautiful moments that remind us why we made this choice. Follow along for travel tips, insights into life on the road, and an honest look at the ups and downs of full-time van living. Taking a leap of faith and starting a van life our best decision yet.
Join us as we navigate this incredible adventure together—there’s so much to explore, and we’re just getting started!
Stephen, Terri, Coco
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