Van life isn’t just a travel trend, it’s a lifestyle shift. For many, it’s the ultimate expression of freedom with the opportunities to wake up to a misty loch view one day, a coastal setting the next and a mountainscape another day. But embracing van life, especially in the UK where weather and terrain can be unpredictable, requires more than just wanderlust and a full tank. It’s about living intentionally with less, and packing smart for an active, outdoor lifestyle.
Whether you’re chasing cycling routes in the Highlands, running trails in Snowdonia, or paddleboarding in the Lake District, here’s a breakdown of what matters when hitting the road.
1. The Mindset Shift: Less Stuff, More Space
One of the biggest transitions into van life is psychological. We’re used to having space: Wardrobes, kitchens, garages full of gear. Suddenly, your life has to fit in a vehicle and not just your stuff, but your routines, hobbies and possibly your work.
Many van lifers begin by taking stock of what they truly need. Think about the gear that supports your lifestyle, whether that’s a compact running vest, a collapsible camping stove, or a foldable bike. Anything else? It probably needs to go.
In fact, some urban adventurers start by decluttering their living and working spaces before making the jump. For Londoners, that often means arranging an office clearance London to offload years’ worth of outdated furniture, electronics, or paperwork from a home office or previous workspace. Clearing physical space often clears mental space too. This will make the move to van life feel lighter and more intentional.
2. Essential Gear That Works Hard for You
Van life with an active twist means your gear needs to be both compact and high-performance. Every item you pack should earn its place. Here are the must-haves:
✔ Multi-use outdoor clothing
Invest in quality base layers, a reliable waterproof jacket, and merino wool gear. These handle moisture, dry quickly, and pack down small.
✔ Portable power
A solar panel or portable power bank keeps your devices and GPS charged, especially on longer stays off-grid.
✔ Foldable or collapsible versions
From kettles and pans to bike stands and yoga mats—modern gear is often designed to save space without compromising function.
✔ On-the-go cooking
A single burner stove with fuel, a small set of nesting pans, and a good chef’s knife go a long way. Bonus points for a compact coffee setup.
✔ Waterproof storage
From trail shoes to wetsuits, outdoor life gets messy. Use stackable, waterproof containers to protect the rest of your gear.
3. Health & Hygiene: Keep it Simple, Keep it Clean
You don’t need a built-in shower or full bathroom to live clean on the road. A solar shower bag, biodegradable soap, microfibre towels and regular dips in lakes, lochs and rivers can cover the basics.
Toilet options vary, from campsite facilities to portable composting toilets. For many, a National Trust or gym membership provides useful facilities across the country.
Don’t forget first aid: Include blister plasters, electrolyte tablets, and a proper sports injury kit if you’re trail running or cycling regularly.
4. Digital Nomadism: Staying Connected Off the Grid
More and more people are combining van life with remote work. If you’re editing content from Glen Etive or taking Zoom calls from the Peak District, you’ll need decent connectivity. A mobile hotspot device with a data-rich SIM card is essential, and signal boosters can help in rural areas.
Also useful: a foldable laptop stand, noise-cancelling headphones, and blackout window covers for early-morning calls.
5. Top Active Van Life Destinations in the UK
The Cairngorms – Hike, bike, or run across vast moorlands and ancient forests.
Brecon Beacons – Trail running heaven with wild camping potential.
The Lake District – Paddleboarding and hiking, with plenty of parking spots for campervans.
North Coast 500 – A breathtaking coastal route perfect for cycle touring or photography on the move.
South Downs Way – Ideal for gravel biking and less-remote van stays.
Each region has its own blend of adventure and tranquillity. And thanks to Scotland’s right to roam laws, respectful wild camping is more accessible here than almost anywhere else in the UK.
6. Respect the Land, Respect the Life
With the privilege of freedom comes responsibility. Follow the Leave No Trace principles. Use grey water containers, avoid single-use plastics, and stay on designated tracks where possible. Remember, your “mobile home” should leave no footprint.
Also, consider local communities. Supporting rural shops, visiting cafés, or paying for parking helps keep van life sustainable and welcomed.
Final Thoughts
Van life isn’t about escaping reality, it’s about reshaping it. When you pack light, plan smart, and prioritise experience over excess, the UK becomes your backyard and your playground.
From clearing out your workspace to gearing up for the hills, every step you take toward simplicity opens the door to richer, more connected outdoor adventures. Travel light, travel far and make every stop count.
