Which is better? RV life or van life? Before running off to used RV dealers, find out what you need to know.
Until the popularization of living in smaller vehicles like vans, RVs were seen as the only viable option for people who wanted a full-time mobile living situation. Now, van life is nearly as popular in some circles, which has sparked a debate: which is better? RV or van life?
Before you start looking into the local van or used RV dealers, evaluate each strategy’s pros and cons and decide which will be a better fit for your desired lifestyle.
The Pros of Van Life
Living in a van is the least expensive way to hit the road full-time. Most people purchase used cargo vans and then convert them into tiny homes, often using only hand tools and materials available at the local hardware store.
Because vans are much smaller than the typical RV, they require less fuel and have fewer ongoing operational costs. Vans are also easier to maneuver than larger recreational vehicles and can reach places inaccessible to an ordinary motor home.
The Cons of Van Life
Some of the same factors that make van life appealing can also make it more challenging. Designing and building a tiny home is a fun project for people with a strong DIY bent, but that may not be the case for someone who isn’t used to using power tools.
The size of vans vs. RVs can also be seen as a drawback as easily as a benefit. Even a well-designed van provides little space to spread out, making them feel overly confining, particularly when the weather precludes spending time outdoors.
The Pros of RV Life
Full-sized RVs come with all the conveniences of modern homes. Most have full, small kitchens with ovens, microwaves, and sufficient counter space to prepare meals. RVs also have full bathrooms with showers and toilets. Vans don’t have the space for all those amenities.
The larger size of an RV means that people can switch to RV life without making as many lifestyle changes. Living full-time in an RV also opens up opportunities for staying in RV parks or volunteering at state parks for a free place to stay. You can’t do that in a van.
The Cons of RV Life
The primary drawback to living in an RV vs a van is that it is more expensive. Newcomers to the lifestyle can go to used RV dealers for better deals, but they won’t be able to find an RV for the same price as a used van.
RVs are also more difficult to drive, and some require specialized licenses. Small RVs with hydraulic brakes don’t need separate licenses, but larger, heavier models may require getting a CDL.
Which Is the Best Option?
For those prioritizing keeping a strict budget, van life is the better option since it can be significantly less expensive. People who want to maintain as many of the comforts of home as possible are better off buying RVs.
