Which Vehicle Should YOU Buy for VAN Life? | 40 Years of Expert Advice!

Which Vehicle Should YOU Buy for VAN Life? | 40 Years of Expert Advice!

Brief Summary

Bob and Brian discuss various vehicles suitable for living on the road, highlighting the pros and cons of each, from cars and SUVs to vans, trucks, trailers, and motorhomes. They emphasize the importance of budget, reliability, and personal needs when choosing a vehicle. The sweet spot, according to Bob, is a four-wheel-drive van with a high top, while Brian prefers a small trailer with a capable truck.

  • Budget and emergency fund are crucial.
  • Balance between comfort and freedom is key.
  • Personal needs and priorities should guide the choice.

Introduction

Bob and his friend Brian discuss the various vehicle options for living on the road, drawing from their extensive experience with different types of vehicles. Brian has lived on the road for 14 years, primarily in a Class C motorhome, but also in cars, vans, and trailers. Bob has experience with box vans, regular vans, pickups, and cargo trailers. They aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the considerations one should make when choosing a vehicle for nomadic living.

Cars and Tent

A car is the most accessible and cheapest entry point into vehicle dwelling, especially since many people already own one. The advantages include excellent gas mileage and maneuverability. Brian shares his experience of traveling in a Ford Festiva and Geo Tracker in Mexico, using a tent for sleeping and an outdoor kitchen. While cars offer zero comfort, they can serve as a temporary solution to save money on rent, allowing individuals to build an emergency fund and save for a more suitable vehicle. Combining a car with a good tent can enhance comfort and provide more space. However, stealth camping in a car in the city limits the use of extra amenities like tents and outdoor cooking, potentially increasing expenses due to eating out.

SUVs

SUVs range from small models like the Geo Tracker to larger ones like Suburbans and Expeditions. While smaller SUVs offer limited comfort, larger ones provide a surprising amount of comfort and backcountry capability, though with poorer gas mileage. SUVs allow for setting up a bed inside and offer storage space, with the tailgate serving as a convenient cooking area. They strike a better balance between back road ability and freedom compared to cars.

Minivans

Minivans are a step up from SUVs, offering more room and comfort. Some models come with all-wheel drive. They provide more height and space than Suburbans or cars and are relatively affordable. Minivans are a good compromise, especially during bad weather when being stuck inside.

Vans and High Tops

The discussion transitions to vans, with a focus on high-top models. Brian emphasizes the importance of being able to stand up inside a vehicle, having refrigeration, and a restroom based on his experience in a standard van. High-top vans offer more comfort, although they may have less clearance and worse gas mileage. Four-wheel-drive vans are also mentioned as a desirable but costly option. Bob agrees that high tops are infinitely better. New Transit, Sprinter, and ProMaster vans with factory-installed high tops are comfortable options. Vans, in general, strike a balance between freedom and comfort.

Trucks with Shells or Slide-in Campers

Trucks with shells are a more affordable option compared to vans, with better gas mileage than slide-in truck campers. Pickups are widely available and often come in four-wheel drive. While shells offer minimal comfort, slide-in campers provide more amenities but are heavier and reduce gas mileage. A significant drawback of trucks with shells is the need to exit the vehicle to access the living space, which can be a safety concern.

Commercial Vehicles

Commercial vehicles like ambulances and box vans can be repurposed for living. These vehicles often have a square shape, making them easier to build out. Schoolies (school buses) and shuttle buses are other options, but they can be more difficult to maintain and repair due to their specialized components. Bob advises against schoolies due to high repair costs and the difficulty of finding mechanics familiar with their commercial drivetrains. He recommends sticking to vehicles with standard drivetrains for easier and cheaper maintenance.

Trailers

Trailers offer the advantage of separating the living space from the tow vehicle, so if the truck breaks down, the living space remains intact. The truck can also be used independently for errands or exploring. Trailers, however, offer zero stealth. Cargo trailers can be a stealthier option in commercial districts and can be customized. Travel trailers offer full comfort, while cargo trailers provide minimal comfort but greater flexibility. Trailers reduce freedom and flexibility due to their size and the need to scout roads before towing them. Setting up a trailer involves more complexity compared to simply driving a van or motorhome. Teardrop trailers are another option, with lightweight models like The Runaway being towable by most V6 vehicles. However, many teardrop trailers have outdoor cooking systems, which can be inconvenient in bad weather.

Motorhomes

Motorhomes range from 19-foot models to 40-foot diesel pushers, offering varying levels of comfort. They provide amenities like running water, black/gray/freshwater tanks, and heating systems, similar to a studio apartment on wheels. The downsides include poor maneuverability and gas mileage. Repairs can be more difficult and expensive due to the size and complexity of the vehicle. Buying used rental motorhomes can be a good option, especially the shorter models, which are easier to drive and park. However, complex systems like water and heating can be costly to repair. Class C motorhomes, with sleeping areas above the cab, are favored for maximizing living space. Older motorhomes are often built better but may have less efficient engines. Class B motorhomes, or camper vans, offer a balance of comfort and freedom but can be expensive.

Summary and Final Thoughts

Bob summarizes that his ideal vehicle is a four-wheel-drive van with a high top, balancing comfort and back road ability. Brian prefers a small trailer with a capable truck, like a Toyota 4Runner, for exploring the back country. They emphasize the importance of budget, emergency funds, and living below one's means. The best vehicle is the most reliable one that meets individual needs and desires.

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