The reality of van life

An Australia road trip is a bucket list activity for many, and for good reason! Having the world as your backyard and getting to park up at some of the most amazing beaches in the world is truly a special feeling. But with all the magic, it’s not always picture perfect.

I always say that van life has the highest highs and the lowest lows. Here are some things that can be overlooked when thinking about van life.

Weather

Weather is a huge factor when road tripping. No matter how well you plan, there will always be the odd rainy day (or week!). Since van life is mostly lived outdoors, bad weather can mean spending more time inside your vehicle than you’d like. If you’re planning a full lap in a converted van, it’s worth making sure your setup is comfortable for those moments, like being able to access the fridge or cook without stepping outside.

Campsites

While you're guaranteed to stay at some INCREDIBLE outback and coastal campsites, there will be days when you're sleeping in a random carpark or at a rest stop on the side of the highway.

Limited facilities

One of the big adjustments with van life is learning to live without everyday luxuries, like a daily shower. Along the coast, it’s usually easy to freshen up thanks to beach showers and surf clubs. In the outback, facilities or even caravan parks are few and far between. You might go a couple of days without one, which just becomes part of the adventure. Rivers or a quick swim often become your best friends!

Everyday chores take longer

Cooking, cleaning, filling water tanks, and finding campsites are part of the lifestyle. Something as simple as boiling water for pasta can take an hour if there's a slight breeze.

Privacy

This is something I personally found challenging at times. Whether you’re trying to relax, work on your laptop, or just have a quiet day, people walking past often stare inside your vehicle or will knock on your door. With the heat, it’s not always possible to close up all the doors and windows, but having things like window shades, awnings, or even parking slightly away from busy spots can give you a little extra privacy when you need it.

Breakdowns and Maintenance

When your home is also your vehicle, car troubles hit differently. A flat tyre, engine issue, or even just routine servicing means your whole life is temporarily on hold. It’s part of the journey, though, and with basic knowledge, roadside assistance, and a good tool kit, most things are manageable.

With all that being said, van life in Australia is one of the most rewarding ways to travel. You’ll wake up to world class beaches, fall asleep under star filled skies, and have the freedom to explore at your own pace. Every little inconvenience fades away when you’re cooking breakfast by the ocean or pulling into a campsite that feels like it was made just for you. The ups far outweigh the downs, and that sense of freedom is something you just can’t find anywhere else.