ROAD RUNNER
We’ve lived in a poky van for 5 years – it’s tiring and we sometimes kick each other out but it’s way cheaper than rent
And the main reason why they prefer life on the road to renting in London
VAN life has increased significantly in popularity since the Covid pandemic.
If you're interested in the unique way of living but are hesitant to take the plunge, two travelling podcasters have shared an insight into life on the road.
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Tania Zorilla and Adam Stocker, who work as travel filmmakers, share their experiences on their podcast The Adventure Mindset.
Speaking on the third episode of their show, the couple reflected on the best and worst parts of van life.
Having spent the past five years living out of Adam's mum's van Jits, they consider themselves well versed on the subject.
Tania, who previously work full-time at an ad agency, was encouraged by Adam to join him in freelancing.
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The pair described this flexible set-up as one of the main advantages to their lifestyle.
They explained that the freedom to travel without being tie down to a nine to five was an essential part of van life.
The couple also cited the cheaper day-to-day expenses as a huge plus of van life.
Tania and Adam had moved in together before embarking on their adventure, with the goal of saving up for the indefinite trip.
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"[Our] ultimate goal [was] to have enough money to live on road for a year," Tania explained.
They revealed that life on the road is significantly cheaper than renting in London.
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The pair described van life as a "sliding scale of affordability," pointing out that everyone's experience will be different.
An example of this is their van's recurring engine issue, which has cost them a significant amount in both fuel and mechanics.
"Jits has broken down in pretty much every single country we’ve travelled to," Adam revealed.
The couple described the consistent issue as the most stressful part of life on the road.
However, their goal had always been to drive Jits until the campervan was forced to "park up for good."
Tania and Adam also explained that the van life community is a major bonus, providing them with advice and guidance since the beginning of their travels.
As well as breakdowns, the couple said chasing resources can be another drawback of their lifestyle.
The Rise Of Van Life
The rise of van life began during the pandemic in 2020. With no one able to leave the country, staycations became popular for many say camping blog venturecampers.
On top of that, the rising cost of renting a house has put many off doing so, especially when wages have failed to keep up with the cost of living crisis.
Although it has gained popularity again, many people opted for van life in the 60s and 70s.
They explained that they often spend hours planning their routes to align with basic amenities that they took for granted before moving into a van.
Similarly, Tania said day-to-day chors can be difficult in the campervan.
She revealed that she kicks Adam out when the cramped space gets too messy.
However, both of them added that having the whole world at their doorstep makes up for their limited living space.
"We have little space but the ever-changing backyard [means we have] lots of space.
"We open the doors and windows and use outdoor space during the summer."
The couple, who are expecting a son at the end of the year, said they cherish the time they get to spend together.
"We are constantly experiencing new things together and having quality time," Adam said, pointing out that this isn't often the case for others.
However, they did add that not being able to see their friends and family regularly has been difficult.
Adam also said that the lack of a routine can feel "quite tiring" at times.
Despite this, both Tania and Adam recommended anyone interested in van life "give it a go."
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Though they suggested renting or borrowing a van for a weekend to "get a feel" for the lifestyle before committing to it.
"Just go for it, don't overthink it. Just follow the road and see how it goes," they advised.