Budgeting for Vanlife: Holiday, Part-Time, and Full-Time Road Costs Explained

Vanlife is often painted as a low-cost lifestyle and it absolutely can be. But the budget looks very different depending on whether you’re hitting the road for a weekend getaway, a few months at a time, or living in your van full-time.

Here’s how to think about budgeting for each type of vanlife, plus a few cost-saving tips no matter where you fall on the spectrum.

Holiday Vanlifer

You’re in a van for the occasional adventure — long weekends, school breaks, or a summer road trip. It’s short-term, but costs can add up quickly.

Typical Expenses:

• Fuel: Often the biggest cost if you’re covering a lot of ground in a short time
• Campsites or Parking Apps: £10-£30 per night, depending on location
• Food: Dining out is common unless your van is fully equipped
• Attractions/Events: You’re on holiday – it’s OK to splurge

Tips:

• Plan ahead with apps like Park4Night or Searchforsites to find free or cheap overnight spots
• Cook one meal a day in the van to cut food costs
• Travel mid-week or off-season for lower campsite rates

Part-Time or Seasonal Vanlifer

You’re on the road for weeks or months at a time but still have a home base. This hybrid style means balancing road costs with at-home bills.

Typical Expenses:

• Fuel: Still significant, but spread over longer stays
• Campsites: Mix of paid and free camping spots
• Insurance: May include short-term vehicle or travel cover
• Gear: You’ll invest more in comfort and reliability (solar, better storage, etc.)

Tips:

• Set a weekly budget and track it (yes, even in a notebook)
• Use SIM-only data deals to stay connected without overspending
• Consider renting out your home or room while you’re gone to offset costs

Full-Time Vanlifer

This is your lifestyle, not a trip. Full-time vanlifers often spend less than traditional renters, but the costs are ongoing.

Typical Expenses:

• Fuel: Lower than you’d think if you travel slowly
• Food: Cooking becomes a daily habit (and budget-saver)
• Maintenance: Plan for monthly savings toward vehicle repairs
• Insurance: Includes contents, vehicle, and possibly travel insurance
• Data & Power: For working remotely or staying online
• Emergency Fund: Breakdowns don’t wait for payday

Tips:

• Travel slowly to save fuel and enjoy places more deeply
• Use loyalty cards and cashback apps to stretch your budget
• Track every expense for a month to find your personal baseline

Final Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all vanlife budget and that’s a good thing. Whether you’re out for a weekend escape or living full-time on the road, understanding your needs and habits is the key to keeping your wallet (and wheels) rolling.

Are you holidaying, part-timing, or living full-time on the road?

Drop a comment and let me know how you manage your money on the move and share your best cost-saving tip. You never know who it might help.