Essential Vanlife Tips for Beginners on the Road

Buying Your First Van? Here’s What to Look Out For

Our first trip away in Yvie, it was just for one night and she was a shell! We had a sleeping bag each and a rucksack for our clothes

Vanlife is an incredible lifestyle — one that offers freedom, flexibility, and the chance to wake up somewhere new every day. But before you can start chasing sunsets and mountain views, the first (and most important) step is finding the right van.

With so many options out there, it can feel overwhelming — and unfortunately, there are also a few scams to watch out for. Here’s a breakdown of how to buy safely, what features to look for, and how to make sure your new home on wheels is perfect for your lifestyle.

Stay Safe When Buying Online

The excitement of buying your first van can make it easy to overlook red flags — but taking precautions early on will save you stress (and money) later.

Fraud Awareness Tips:

• Use reputable sites like Auto Trader or official dealership listings. Avoid informal selling platforms like Facebook Marketplace, where scams are more common.

• Never send money before seeing the van in person. Genuine sellers will always let you view the vehicle first.

• Sometimes the scammer will invite you to see the van, you'll put down a deposit and upon collection, the van will be gone. Always do a check and dont put any money down until youv'e proven they are genuine.

• Be cautious with cash. It’s always safer to use PayPal or bank transfer, which offer better protection if something goes wrong.

• Ask for full details before committing — registration number, service history, MOT records, and any receipts for recent work. Ask to see proof or get an online check to back up their claims

• Walk away if something feels off. If the seller is pushy, vague, or unwilling to meet in person, it’s not worth the risk. Overselling is also something to be aware of when it comes to scams or dodgy vans.

• Do a background check using the registration number — this will tell you the MOT history, mileage, and any past failures or advisories.

Taking your time and double-checking everything can make all the difference between a dream purchase and an expensive mistake.

An idea of what you'll find in a scam, if anything at all.

Key Things to Look for in a Van

When viewing potential vans, it’s easy to get caught up in how they look — but the details really matter. Here’s a checklist to keep in mind:

Condition & Structure

• Check for rust, especially around wheel arches, sills, and underneath the van. Some surface rust is fine, but avoid anything that looks structural.

• Make sure the doors open and close smoothly, and check for signs of leaks or water damage inside.

• Inspect the chassis for any visible cracks, holes, or weld repairs.

Size & Layout

• Think about how much space you’ll actually need — short wheelbase vans are easier to drive and park, while long wheelbases offer more room for living and storage.

• Check the height — being able to stand fully upright makes a big difference, especially if you’ll be living full-time in your van.

Mileage & Durability

• Ideally, look for something with over 30,000 miles (so the engine is well run-in) but under 100,000 miles to avoid excessive wear.

• Review the service history to see how well it’s been maintained. Regular oil changes and MOT passes are great signs.

• Ask how the van’s been used — ex-delivery vans may have high mileage but regular maintenance, while short-trip vehicles could have more engine wear.

Fuel Type & Efficiency

• Diesel engines are generally better for long-distance driving and heavier loads, while petrol may be better for smaller, lighter builds.

• Consider fuel efficiency if you plan on travelling long-term — it’ll save you a lot in the long run.

• Some vans also come with LPG conversions, which can help reduce fuel costs.

Comfort & Features

• Depending on your travel style, features like cruise control, air conditioning, heated seats, and parking sensors can make life on the road much easier.

• Look for comfortable seats, especially if you’ll be driving long distances.

• If buying a pre-built camper, check that all features (e.g., water, electrics, and gas) work properly and safely.

Vehicle History

• Check for past MOT failures or advisories — these can reveal recurring issues.

• Find out how many previous owners it’s had — fewer is usually better, as it suggests consistency and better care.

• Always get a vehicle history check before purchase to confirm everything matches up.

Staying Connected on the Road

If you plan to work remotely or run a business from your van, connectivity will play a huge role in your setup.

Tips for Staying Connected:

• Look into mobile hotspot devices or data SIM plans from networks with wide coverage across the UK and Europe.

• If you’re self-employed or working full-time on the road, consider investing in a roof-mounted antenna or 4G/5G booster to improve signal in remote areas.

• Download apps like Park4Night, which is incredibly useful for finding safe overnight park-ups and scenic spots.

• Joining campervan or caravanning memberships can also save money on campsites and give you access to secure, budget-friendly stays.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Buying your first van is a huge step — and it’s okay to take your time. Research, compare, and view a few options before committing. By prioritizing safety, structure, and suitability, you’ll find a van that not only fits your needs but supports the adventures you dream of.

Remember:

• Stay smart online,

• Ask plenty of questions,

• Don’t rush the process,

• And always trust your instincts.

Before you know it, you’ll be rolling down scenic roads with your perfect home-on-wheels — ready to create memories that last a lifetime.

Your Adventure Awaits

Embarking on a vanlife journey is an exciting adventure filled with opportunities for exploration and self-discovery. By following these essential tips, you can set yourself up for success on the road. Remember to choose the right van, plan your route, pack smart, and stay connected. Embrace minimalism, learn basic maintenance, and find the perfect campsites. Stay organized, connect with other vanlifers, and most importantly, enjoy the journey.

Your adventure awaits, so grab your keys and hit the road. The world is waiting for you to explore it.

*Please note that this is just advice based on my own knowledge and expereince and we cannot be held responsible if anything goes wrong with your purchases or vans. Action fraud is a useful source when keeping yourself safe online.