What Kind of Vanlifer Are You? Part-Time, Full-Time, or Just for the Holidays
Not all vanlifers are the same — and that’s what makes it great. Some are weekend warriors. Others sell it all and live full-time on the road. Many land somewhere in between.
If you’re just getting into vanlife or still dreaming, it helps to understand the different ways people make it work. Here’s a look at the three main types of vanlifers and what makes each lifestyle unique.
1. The Holiday Vanlifer
These are the folks who keep their van parked most of the year, then hit the road during holidays, school breaks, or long weekends.
Pros:
- Easy to balance with full-time work or family life
- No pressure to commit to life on the road
- A great way to test vanlife before going all in
Challenges:
- You need off-street parking or secure storage
- It takes time to pack and prepare each trip
- Your setup might not be as refined for longer journeys
Perfect for: Teachers, families, or anyone who loves the road but also loves their home base.
2. The Part-Time or Seasonal Vanlifer
These vanlifers hit the road for weeks or months at a time, often rotating between home and travel. Some rent out their homes while away. Others work seasonally and travel during their off months.
Pros:
- More time to explore than a holiday vanlifer
- Flexibility to save money between trips
- Easier to maintain relationships, routines, or part-time jobs
Challenges:
- Switching between road life and home life takes adjustment
- You may still carry the cost of two “homes”
- Harder to feel rooted or fully mobile
Perfect for: Freelancers, digital nomads, seasonal workers, or those easing into full-time travel.
3. The Full-Time Vanlifer
These are the all-in explorers. They live on the road year-round, often working remotely or living simply to keep the lifestyle going.
Pros:
- Complete freedom of location and lifestyle
- Minimal living costs (if managed well)
- No more packing and unpacking — your home goes with you
Challenges:
- No fixed address can make things like post, healthcare, or banking tricky
- Finding reliable internet and safe parking is a daily task
- It can get lonely without a strong community
Perfect for: Remote workers, couples, solo adventurers, and minimalists ready to embrace life outside the lines.
Final Thoughts
No version of vanlife is better than another. It’s about finding what works for you and your lifestyle. Whether you’re dreaming of summer weekends away or preparing to live in your van full-time, there’s space for all kinds of road roamers.
Vanlife is not one-size-fits-all. That’s what makes it so special.
Which one are you? Or which one are you hoping to become?