The #VanLife movement, popularized during the COVID-19 pandemic, is showing signs of slowing down as individuals face challenges such as return-to-office mandates and high gas prices. Trailblazers within the movement have shared their experiences, including unexpected repair costs, feelings of isolation, safety concerns, and logistical difficulties. Siena Juhlin, a participant in the movement, admitted that everything is ten times harder but also incredibly rewarding. Others, like freelance photographer Emilie Hofferber, have expressed frustrations with the constant decision-making required for survival on the road.
Some individuals have shared their struggles with van life on platforms like Reddit, with one person mentioning having a nervous breakdown after living in a van for a few months. They noted the challenges of making friends and the increased expenses associated with constantly moving around. As the Men’s Journal pondered the question of whether van life is coming to an end, it was noted that the rise of van rental programs allows people to test out the lifestyle without a full-time commitment. Some, like Caity Weaver, have described their experiences with van life as cramped and challenging.
Despite the challenges, some individuals remain dedicated to the van life movement. Abby Joselyn, an Instagram influencer with a large following, shared her determination to continue living on the road despite setbacks like an accident that sidelined her van for five months. She expressed a feeling of unfinished business and a desire to continue exploring and living the van life. The rise of van rental programs has allowed aspiring van lifers to try out the lifestyle without a long-term commitment, leading some to realize it may not be for them.
The dream of van life, with its promise of adventure and freedom, has faced the reality of challenges such as repair costs, isolation, safety concerns, and logistical difficulties. Participants in the movement, like Siena Juhlin and Emilie Hofferber, have acknowledged the difficulties but also the beauty and rewards of the lifestyle. Despite some individuals expressing frustrations and deciding van life is not for them, others like Abby Joselyn remain committed to the movement and continue to explore and share their experiences with others. The van life movement continues to evolve as more people test out the lifestyle through rental programs, with some finding it to be a fulfilling way of life while others moving on to other pursuits.
