Many dream of leaving city life behind. Dean Unglert did just that by moving into a van. His choice sparked both praise and doubt from friends and fans.
Living in a van offers freedom and new experiences. But it also brings challenges. How do you shower? Where do you sleep? What about safety?
This guide will show you how to start van life like Dean. We’ll cover:
– Choosing the right van
– Setting up your mobile home
– Dealing with daily needs on the road
– Managing costs and repairs
– Finding places to park and sleep
By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of van life. You’ll know if it’s for you and how to begin your voyage.
Why Dean Unglert Chose Van Life: Behind The Scenes
Dean Unglert’s choice to live in a van wasn’t random. His past played a big role. Dean lived on a bus with his family as a child for four years. This early experience shaped his view of home and travel.
Years later, Dean found himself stuck in a rut in Los Angeles. City life didn’t feel right anymore. He wanted something new but didn’t know where to go. The idea of van life offered a way out.
For Dean, van life meant freedom. He could travel without giving up his work or friends. It was a chance to reconnect with his past and find new experiences. The open road called, and Dean answered.
Finding Freedom on the Open Road: Why Van Life is the Ultimate Escape
Van life attracts many people looking for a new way to live. It’s not just about travel. It’s about finding freedom and meaning.
For Dean, van life meant less stuff and more experiences. He wanted to live simply and go where he pleased, and the van gave him a home that could move with him.
Living in a van lets you see new places every day. You wake up to different views and meet new people. Nature becomes your backyard. You learn to live with less and value experiences over things.
Van life can change how you see the world. It teaches you to adapt and solve problems. You focus on what truly matters. For some, like Dean, it’s the perfect way to break free from the daily grind.
How to Choose the Perfect Van for Your New Lifestyle
Picking the right van is key to a good van life experience. Dean spent time finding his ideal van, and you should, too.
Dean chose a 2006 Dodge Sprinter with a high top because he wanted to stand up inside. The van had low miles, which was important for long-term use.
When looking for your van, think about:
- Size: Can you stand up? Is there enough room for your stuff?
- Age and miles: Newer vans cost more but may need fewer repairs.
- Make and model: Some vans are easier to fix than others.
Dean found his van on Craigslist. You can also look there or try van life forums and Facebook groups. Don’t rush. Take time to find a van that fits your needs and budget.
Remember, you can always make changes later. Start with a solid base and build from there.
DIY Van Conversion: Turning a Blank Canvas Into Your Dream Home
Turning a van into a home takes work. Dean did most of it himself, with help from his dad. Here’s how you can do it too:
1. Plan your layout. Dean made room for a bed, kitchen, and storage.
2. Add insulation. This keeps you warm in cold weather.
3. Install flooring. Dean used wood for a cozy feel.
4. Build your bed. Dean made a full-size bed frame with storage underneath.
5. Set up a kitchen area. Dean added a sink and water tanks.
6. Create storage space. Dean built cabinets for clothes and food.
7. Add lighting. Dean installed lights under the cabinets.
Dean learned some lessons along the way. He wishes he’d made a smaller bed to save space, and he spent too much on custom curtains.
Take your time with the build. It’s okay to make changes as you go. Your van will keep improving as you live in it.
Daily Van Life Essentials You Need to Know
Van life is fun, but it comes with challenges. Dean learned to handle these daily tasks:
- Sleeping: Dean’s van has a comfy full-size bed. He uses sheets, a quilt, and a weighted blanket to stay warm.
- Cooking: Dean doesn’t cook much in his van. He uses a camp grill when needed. He often tries local food while traveling.
- Bathroom needs: Dean goes outside when it’s safe. Otherwise, he finds public bathrooms. For longer trips, he uses campgrounds with facilities.
- Showering: Dean bathes in lakes or rivers when possible. He also uses gym showers or books a hotel room every few days.
- Staying warm: Dean has a diesel heater for cold nights. He hasn’t installed it yet but plans to do so soon.
- Water: Dean has tanks for fresh and used water under his sink.
To make van life work, plan. Know where you’ll get food, water, and other needs. Be ready to adapt. With time, you’ll find your ways to make van life comfortable.
The True Costs of Van Life: Budgeting for Life on the Road
Van life can save money, but it has costs. Here’s what Dean spent:
1. Initial costs:
- Van purchase: $27,500
- Basic conversion: About $5,000
- Solar setup: $2,500
2. Ongoing expenses:
- Repairs: $2,000+ in the first year
- Gas: Varies, but Dean’s van gets 23 mpg
- Food and supplies: Similar to regular life
Dean saved $18,000 in rent over nine months. But unexpected costs can pop up.
3. Tips for budgeting:
- Save extra for repairs
- Cook your meals when possible
- Use apps to find free overnight parking
- Join a gym chain for showers and workouts
Plan for both good and bad months. Keep a cushion for surprises. With smart planning, van life can be more affordable than you think.
Van Life Challenges: How to Overcome Mechanical and Lifestyle Loads
Van life isn’t always smooth. Dean faced some bumps:
1. Mechanical issues:
- Turbo problems cost $800 in failed repairs
- Dean fixed it himself for $70 by replacing a hose
- Regular maintenance is key to avoiding big problems
2. Lifestyle challenges:
- Finding safe places to park and sleep
- Staying clean and hygienic on the road
- Dealing with tight spaces
3. To handle these issues:
- Learn basic van maintenance
- Build a network of trusted mechanics
- Use apps to find safe parking spots
- Be flexible and patient when things go wrong
- Welcome the learning curve
Remember, challenges are part of the experience. They teach you to be resourceful and adaptable. Stay positive, and each hurdle will make you a better van lifer.
Conclusion
As Dean Unglert uncovered, van life offers a unique blend of freedom and challenge. It’s not for everyone, but it might be for you.
Think about why you want to try van life. Is it to save money? To see new places? To live more simply? Your reasons will shape your expedition.
Remember, van life is what you make it. You’ll face hurdles, but you’ll also find incredible experiences. Dean’s story shows that with planning and flexibility, you can create a life you love on the road.
If van life calls to you, start small. Take weekend trips. Test different vans. Learn from others’ experiences. When you’re ready, leap.
Your perfect van experience awaits. Will you answer the call of the open road?
