Nomadic Habitat
Camper van with a pop-top roof parked by the sea at sunset

Van life, planned properly

Plan your life on the road with fewer surprises

Power, places to sleep, and what it really costs, explained in plain language. Start with the question you're stuck on.

Work out my power needsGet the free guide
  • Free van power calculator
  • Specs checked against the maker
  • Prices dated, never guessed

What are you trying to figure out?

How much power do I need?Size a power station and solar for what you actually run.Use the power calculator →Where can I sleep for free?Boondocking and dispersed camping on public land, legally.Read the boondocking guide →What does van life really cost?A realistic monthly budget, from fuel to insurance.See the budget →Which van should I start with?Big vans like the Sprinter and Transit versus smaller, easier-to-park options.Choose a van →Can I bring my dog?Heat safety, restraints, paperwork and park rules.Plan for your dog →Not ready for a van?Tiny homes and the communities built around them.Explore tiny homes →

Help me choose

Not sure what size power station you need?

Tick your fridge, fan, laptop and the rest. In about a minute you'll know your daily use, the battery size and the solar that keeps it charged, plus the models that fit.

Open the power calculatorOr read the van power guide →

Popular guides

Wondering how we pick the gear we recommend? Read how we choose.

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