10 people living on the road shared their advice before I set off on a 13-day van trip. Their tips led to an unforgettable adventure.

Monica HumphriesJan 15, 2024, 06:54 IST

A van on an empty road.Monica Humphries/Insider

I set out on a two-week road trip in a Ram ProMaster van.
Before the trip, I asked 10 people living in vehicles what advice they had for me.

Before I left for a 3,000-mile road trip spanning six states, I wanted advice.

Instead of hopping on YouTube, scrolling through TikTok, or combing through blog posts, I figured I'd ask the experts themselves.

I called 10 different people living on the road. Their reasons for doing van life, their time spent on the road, and their distance traveled varied drastically.

But they all had one thing in common: love for the lifestyle.

Here's the advice they gave me.

Avoid a jam-packed itinerary and try traveling slower.

Sierra Fernald in her van.@sierra.fernald/TikTok

Check ahead and figure out where you can fill up on gas and water.

A van at a water station.Monica Humphries/Business Insider

Another way to alleviate stress is by being insured and having resources to call in emergencies.

Navod McNeil and the van he calls home.@navodthenomad/Instagram

When things do go wrong, know that this is part of the journey and you'll grow from it.

Christian Schaffer looks out of the van she calls home.@christianschaffer/Instagram

Don't be afraid to seek out community, whether it's online or in-person.

A group of solo travelers at an Outsiders, Together event.Outsiders, Together

Be a responsible traveler.

Side-by-side images of Casey Hogan on solo trips.@towingwildoats/Instagram

If you’re considering doing van life full-time, try the lifestyle before committing.

Phyllis Grover and the van she calls home.PhyllisFindsFreedom

If you’re worried about driving a large vehicle, avoid highways and remind yourself that you have a right to be on the road.

A winding road in Arches National Park in Utah.Monica Humphries/Insider

Carve out adventure on your own terms.

Aidan Paringer outside his van.Van Life Campgrounds

I listened to their advice, which helped me embark on one of my favorite trips to date.

Insider's reporter on day four without a shower.Monica Humphries/Insider

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