My First Week Living in a Van: What Nobody Tells You About the Transition

I thought I was ready for van life: freedom, adventure, and breathtaking views every day. What I didn’t expect was the overwhelming reality of cold showers, tiny spaces, and the strange mix of loneliness and excitement. Here’s everything I wish someone had told me about my first week living in a van.

The Emotional Roller-coaster

The first night in the van, I felt a strange mix of exhilaration and fear. I was finally living the dream I had been chasing, but I also felt an unsettling sense of loneliness. The safety net of my old routine was gone, and every creak outside the van seemed like it could be something sinister. It was as though I was free-floating, exciting, but unsteady. By the third night, the loneliness gave way to a deeper connection with myself, and I began to embrace the silence and solitude.

Practical Adjustments

Living in a small space turned out to be more challenging than I’d imagined. My first big lesson? I over-packed. Clothes, books, gadgets and everything seems so essential when you load the van, but within days you'll realize you had brought too much. Maneuvering in a cramped space filled with unnecessary items became frustrating, and you'll find yourself shedding items as you go. The less you have, the lighter you feel.

Cooking was another unexpected hurdle. My little portable stove was charming in theory, but in practice, it was a hassle to set up when all I wanted was a quick meal. I'll never forget the night I burned my first attempt at pasta and had to settle for crackers and peanut butter instead. But by the end of the week, you'll learn how to simplify meals and make the most of your tiny kitchen setup.

The Reality of Comforts You Took for Granted

Bathrooms and showers quickly became my biggest challenge. I spent my first morning searching for a public restroom, and by day two, you'll be downloading apps to find facilities nearby.

Showers were another adjustment. I had imagined rinsing off in scenic outdoor settings, but the reality will involve gym memberships and the occasional cold, outdoor rinse-off. It wont be glamorous, but it will be oddly satisfying to figure out these little logistical puzzles.

Sleep took some getting used to as well. My first night’s parking spot, a quiet-looking street, turned into a restless experience with passing cars and unfamiliar noises. By midweek, you'll learn to research parking options thoroughly and even find a few peaceful spots with incredible views.

Challenges You Didn’t Expect

Some challenges were predictable, like limited space and adjusting to new routines, but others caught me completely off guard. The weather, for example, played a much bigger role than I anticipated. One night, the temperature dropped sharply, and I discovered my sleeping bag wasn’t as warm as I’d hoped. Another day, the heat made the van feel like an oven.

Finding reliable internet will be another surprise. Streaming movies and staying connected sounds easy in theory, but weak signals in remote locations will make you rethink your expectations. You'll learn to download podcasts and audio-books in advance, which will turn out to be a blessing in disguise. It'll allow you to disconnect from screens and connect with nature instead.

Surprising Wins

Not everything was a struggle. Some moments felt like small victories that I’ll cherish forever. The first time I woke up to a sunrise over a quiet lake, I knew the challenges were worth it. Parking in a spot with a stunning mountain view made me feel like I had my own private piece of paradise.

You'll be surprised with how quickly you adapt. By the end of the week, you'll be setting up camp with ease, cooking simple yet satisfying meals, and finding joy in the little things. Like a perfect cup of coffee made on your tiny stove or a peaceful evening spent stargazing.

What I Learned About Myself

Van life, even in that first chaotic week, taught me more about myself than I’d learned in years of living comfortably. I discovered how resourceful I could be and how much I’d been underestimating my ability to adapt. I learned to embrace the unknown, to laugh at the missteps, and to find beauty in simplicity.

Most importantly, you'll begin to see yourself in a new light. Away from the noise of your old life, you'll have the space to think, reflect, and just be. The moments of quiet, both external and internal, allow you to reconnect with parts of yourself you’d been neglecting.

Closing Thoughts

Yes, my first week living in a van was messy and imperfect. It was full of unexpected challenges and lessons I’ll carry with me forever. But it was also beautiful, eye-opening, and freeing in a way I can’t fully put into words. I found myself in that tiny van, navigating a new way of living, and I loved every single moment, even the hard ones.

If you’re considering van life, know this: it won’t always be easy, but it will absolutely be worth it. To read more of my story go to Outrunning the past.