How to budget for van life

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How to Budget for Vanlife

Posted by Traveling Willoughby's • May 5, 2025

One of the most common questions we get is: "How much does vanlife cost?" The truth is, it depends on your lifestyle — but budgeting wisely is key to making it sustainable. Here's how we approach budgeting for life on the road.


1. Know Your Startup Costs

  • Van Purchase: New or used, this will be your biggest up-front cost.
  • Conversion Costs: DIY builds can be as low as $2,000; professional builds run $30k+.
  • Gear & Supplies: Bedding, solar, kitchen setup, and tools.

2. Estimate Monthly Expenses

  • Gas: Varies based on mileage and MPG.
  • Food: Groceries and occasional dining out.
  • Phone/Internet: Mobile plans or hotspots for remote work.
  • Insurance: Van insurance and health coverage.
  • Maintenance: Oil changes, repairs, and tire replacement.
  • Camp Fees: National parks, RV hookups, or apps like Harvest Hosts.
  • Misc: Laundry, subscriptions, and personal spending.

3. Build a Safety Net

Set aside an emergency fund — vanlife breakdowns happen, and it’s best to be ready.

4. Income on the Road

From remote jobs to creative gigs, side hustles, or seasonal work, there are many ways to fund your adventures. We’ll share what works for us along the way.

5. Track & Adjust

Use budgeting apps or spreadsheets to track your spending and adjust monthly. Vanlife is flexible — your budget should be too.

Budgeting for vanlife isn’t about limiting freedom — it’s about making that freedom last.

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#van #life #digital #nomad #budget #travel #minimalist #lifestyle #tiny #living #remote #work #full-time #RV #traveling #couple

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