Here’s why #vanlife is the next big thing

You’ve probably seen the hashtag #vanlife pop up now and then on Facebook and Instagram. Admit it — the idea of living in a van, with no fixed address and the freedom to travel at a moment’s notice is pretty appealing! Thanks to social media, this alternative lifestyle has crept into the mainstream. Here’s why we think #vanlife is going to be the next big thing.

Every situation is unique

When we talk about people who have decided to live several months, years, or even their whole lives in a van, you might assume we’re talking about 21st‑century hippies. But the reality is much more nuanced, confirmed by the many testimonies of people who have made this choice of alternative lifestyle. There is a multitude of realities and each case is unique.

An attractive way of life

Nomadic life is an idea that is becoming more and more attractive. In the majority of cases, it is a question of escaping from a daily lifestyle that is too rhythmic and unsurprising, centred around work, debt, time spent in transport, and consumption.

Diversity is very important

People of all different backgrounds choose to live in their vans. Just look at the many images posted on social networks under the hashtag #vanlife, which has been shared over a million times. It’s a source of inspiration: no two vans are alike, and each traveller has their own history, encounters, objectives, and way of travelling. Travellers might live alone, as a couple, with a group of friends, or as a family.

The ability to travel almost anywhere

Many people are attracted by the idea of autonomy and the possibility of being able to live at the rhythm they desire, as well as by the possibility of travelling almost anywhere and with minimal constraints. Some people also see an opportunity to return to a simpler life and detach themselves from material goods. In the same way, they opt for a freer life in which they can extricate themselves from existing structures.

Renting is expensive

Travelling and living according to your means is a way of emancipating yourself, learning, and discovering life. It also frees you from paying ever‑increasing rent and allows you to build up some savings.

Investing in the habitat of the future

Radically changing your lifestyle allows you to escape your daily routine and experience something new. We think #vanlife is the habitat of the future, as more and more of us crave autonomy and control over our lives.

h/t: Elite Daily