Van Life Reality: What Instagram Doesn’t Show You

After nearly six years living in a van, I’ve seen the lifestyle evolve from a fringe movement to a full-blown social media phenomenon.

Instagram makes it look perfect—breathtaking mountain vistas, pristine interiors, and effortlessly curated moments. But van life is far more than carefully filtered snapshots.

The Truth About “Instagram-Perfect” Vans

One thing I’ve noticed: the nicer the van, the less people actually use it.

Those $100,000+ luxury builds? Many owners rarely travel in them. Why? Often, these vans are more about status than adventure, or the owners need to maintain a steady job to afford their vehicles.

Ironically, simpler, more affordable setups usually see more real-world adventure. Lower overhead gives travelers the freedom to actually hit the road.

Real Challenges of Van Life

Adventure comes with challenges that Instagram rarely shows.

Chasing snow, for example, brings closed roads, limited daylight, and inevitable breakdowns in freezing, wet conditions. I’ve faced nights when my heater failed in 15-degree weather, forcing me to choose between attempting repairs in the cold or risking frozen pipes inside.

These experiences test your resolve—but they also sharpen problem-solving skills that transfer to every area of life.

Building a Van: Expectations vs. Reality

I thought my Sprinter build would take three months. Seven months later, it was still a work in progress.

The best decision? Hitting the road when it was 70–80% complete. Living in the van while finishing the build revealed what I truly needed versus what I thought I wanted.

Showers, overhead cabinets, and storage plans all evolved once I experienced life on the road.

Tip: YouTube and online forums are invaluable—consider it the “prestigious university of van life,” teaching everything from construction techniques to emergency repairs.

The Van Life Safety Question

Safety concerns are often exaggerated. In almost six years, I’ve only been asked to move my van three times.

My strategy is simple: avoid the top 10% wealthiest areas (where residents might report you) and the bottom 10% highest-crime areas. The rest is perfectly safe with just locked doors and basic precautions like bear spray (which I’ve never needed).

You don’t need elaborate security systems—most people won’t care about a parked van if you’re not causing trouble.

The Essentials of Van Life

If I were building another van, these would be non-negotiable:

• Standing room: Life is much easier when you can stand up.

• Sheep’s wool insulation: Performs exceptionally well in all conditions.

• Diesel heater: Critical for winter and cold climates.

• Hyper-organization: Every item needs a secure, designated place.

• Self-driving capability: A future addition for working on the move.

Small details—magnetic closures, child locks, creative storage—make life in a constantly moving home much easier.

The Community Aspect of Van Life

After four years on the road, I decided to establish a permanent base in Salt Lake City.

Why? Community. Constant travel makes maintaining relationships and building a business challenging. Dating is also tricky without a home base.

That said, the road offers community opportunities. Skiing, mountain biking, and trail running naturally connect you with like-minded people. Cooking dinner for new friends—even in a van—can go a long way toward building meaningful connections.

Is Van Life Right for You?

Van life isn’t for everyone. It requires comfort with uncertainty, mechanical problem-solving skills, and a willingness to endure occasional discomfort.

It also demands true minimalism—not just in design, but as a lifestyle.

For those seeking freedom, adventure, and a new perspective on possessions and place, the rewards are immense. Confidence, self-reliance, and experiences across thousands of miles are invaluable.

Conclusion

If you’re considering van life, start simple. Don’t wait for the perfect build—get the essentials, hit the road, and adapt as you go.

The goal isn’t the most Instagram-worthy van—it’s the most life-enriching experience. Focus on the journey, not the filtered photos.

Read more about my van life experiences and lessons shaggyeells.com