17 of The Best Van Life Essentials You Need to Know That Are on Amazon

Are you planning to embark on van life? If so, you’re in the right place! Here, I will share the perfect list of van life essentials to minimize stress and maximize enjoyment on your journey.

Although I am not a van lifer myself, I am a passionate advocate for all nomadic lifestyles. Van lifers are a unique form of nomads, and I want to share these essentials with you to support your journey. I have done extensive research and consulted some friends who are van lifers to compile this list of top van life essentials.

If you love to plan and organize, then we can definitely relate! I know how overwhelming it can be to ensure you have everything you need when completely changing your lifestyle. I want to help you make your Van Life transition go as smoothly as possible. This list is based on thorough research and advice to minimize some of your planning stress and equip you with some van life essentials you may have yet to consider. 

In this post, you will learn about 15 Van Life Essentials Amazon, the Van Life Essentials Checklist, van life necessities, must-haves for van camping, and van life kitchen essentials. You will also be able to answer the questions: What do I need for a van life, and what are the essentials for a van life?

Whether you are a season Van Lifer or in the planning stages, this van life essentials list may contain something useful to enhance your experiences on and off the road!

This post is all about the best van life essentials you need for your new adventures!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links at no extra cost to you.

17 of the Best Van Life Essentials 

General Van Life Essential 

Van Life Essential: Portable Compact Water Filter 

Clean water is the most important resource on earth, so you must be able to access it when needed! As Van lifers, you will travel to remote areas where access to clean drinking water may be limited or unreliable, so having a portable compact water filter is essential! 

This top-rated camping water filtration system is lightweight and easy to use! It comprises two 1.5-gallon bags, three 5-stage filtration straws, and portable water pouches to ensure clean and tasty water anywhere.

Why are they Van Life Essentials? 

1. Access to Safe Drinking Water
2. Emergency Preparedness
3. Cost-Effective
4. Sustainability 

Best Places to Purchase Van Life Essentials: 

1. Amazon
2. Dick’s Sporting Goods 
3. Walmart

Compact Shovel is a Van Life Essential 

The Rhino USA Folding Survival Shovel is a must-have for van lifers! It is a multifunctional tool that enhances the safety, convenience, and sustainability of the van life experience. 

One of the most important functions of a compact shovel is waste disposal. Whether you have a portable toilet or not, there will be times that you have to go to the bathroom outdoors. The other significant benefit of having this tool is it can help you dig out your vehicle’s tires and create traction so you can leave. 

I highly recommend this shovel because it’s small, durable, and lightweight. It comes with a folding case that the shovel can fold into, making it easy to store anywhere in your van! There is a reason their customers love this shovel! 

Why are they Van Life Essentials? 

1. Waste Disposal
2. Vehicle Recovery
3. Clearing Campsites
4. Digging Fire Pits

Best Places to Purchase Van Life Essentials: 

1. Amazon
2. Dick’s Sporting Goods 
3. Walmart

Van Life Essential: Velcro

Velcro is also essential for van life because it is versatile! It is useful for securing loose items while driving, ensuring they don’t shift or fall, which enhances safety.

Velcro can also be used to mount small gadgets, remote controls, and lightweight storage solutions. It can also attach pouches or organizers to interior surfaces and serve as a quick fix for temporarily holding items together. 

These heavy-duty  Velcro strips are top-rated on Amazon and have over 30K reviews! They are very versatile and easy to use! They hold up to 10 lbs, so they are fantastic at keeping things organized and secure while driving all over the continent. 

Why are they Van Life Essential? 

1. Space Optimization
2. Flexible Storage Solutions
3. Secure Storage
4. Modular Design

Best Places to Purchase: 

1. Amazon
2. Target
3. Walmart

Van Life Essential: Magnetic Strips

Magnetic strips are essential for van lifers because they optimize space, provide easy access, and ensure secure storage. Similar to Velcro magnetic strips, they can optimize a van’s limited space. You can safely secure metal items like knives, tools, and utensils using magnets. 

Magnets provide quick and convenient access to frequently used items, freeing up counter space and reducing the need to search through drawers or cabinets. Magnetic strips keep these items securely, preventing them from moving or falling while driving. They not only enhance safety but also keep the van organized and clutter-free. 

These magnetic strips are powerful and effective! They are simple solutions for organization and accessibility. 

Why are they Van Life Essential? 

1. Space Optimization
2. Easy Access
3. Secure Storage

Best Places to Purchase: 

1. Amazon
2. Target
3. Walmart

Van Life Essentials: Portable Fans, Lots of Fans 

Portable fans are a must-have for van life! You will be exploring unique places with all types of environments, so the ability to control temperature and improve air circulation is vital.

Portable fans help regulate temperature in the often confined space of a van, making the living area more comfortable during hot weather. They circulate the air, reducing stuffiness and creating a fresher atmosphere. Their energy-efficient design and compact size ensure they consume less power and are easy to store. You can even use them to dry clothes or create white noise for better sleep. 

This small clip-on rechargeable portable fan is ideal! It’s 8 inches, battery operated, and has 4 Speeds. It also has a sturdy clamp that makes it convenient to place anywhere. Having at least 2 or 3 fans is recommended, especially on hot days. 

Why are they Van Life Essential?

1. Temperature Control
2. Air Circulation
3. Energy Efficiency

Best Places to Purchase: 

1. Amazon
2. Target
3. Walmart

Van Life Essential: Magnetic Battery-Operated Lights

Magnetic battery-operated lights are crucial for van lifers. Their versatility, energy efficiency, portability, and easy installation make them a must!

These long-lasting and energy-efficient LED lights are conveniently small and wire-free to be placed anywhere inside the van. The magnetic feature makes them easy to install and adjust, so you don’t have to damage the van’s interior. Because of their convenient design, they can double as outdoor lighting.

This top-rated battery-powered light was made for cruises but is perfect for van lifers. It has a motion sensor setting and a 360-rotating base, so you can use it anywhere you need. 

Why are they Van Life Essential? 

1. Versatile Placement
2. Energy Efficiency
3. Easy Installation
4. Portable Lighting

Best Places to Purchase Van Life Essentials: 

1. Amazon
2. Target
3. Walmart

Portable Power Station is a Van Life Essential 

A portable power station is crucial for van lifers for many reasons! It provides a reliable power supply that ensures device charging, enables appliance operation, offers emergency backup, and supports off-grid living.

A portable power station provides backup power in emergencies, ensuring safety and preparedness. This versatile device allows you to power essential electronics and appliances, such as laptops, phones, refrigerators, and lights, providing comfort and convenience while on the road.

It’s handy for charging multiple devices simultaneously, making it easier to stay connected and productive. Like other nomads, van lifers use their devices to make a living, so they must ensure they are charged! 

The Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300 is highly rated on Amazon because of its portability, size, and ability to supply renewable energy through solar panel compatibility.

Why are they Van Life Essential? 

1. Reliable Power Supply
2. Device Charging
3. Appliance Operation
4. Emergency Backup
5. Off-Grid Capability

Best Places to Purchase: 

1. Amazon
2. Target
3. Walmart

Van Life Essentials: 5G Wifi Mobile Hotspot 

As a remote worker, you must be able to access the internet. A 5G WiFi mobile hotspot (MiFi)is essential! A 5G MiFi helps van lifers stay connected to the internet, even in remote locations. 

Access to streaming services, social media, and other online entertainment sources enhances the quality of life on the road. Reliable internet is also crucial for navigating remote work, attending online classes, and staying in touch with family and friends. 

The high-speed connectivity of the SIMO Solis 5G WiFi Mobile Hotspot ensures fast and reliable internet, making daily tasks fast and pleasant for van lifers. 

When living as a full-time traveler, you must have more than one way to access the Internet, which I discuss in depth in the Beginners Guide: 7 Strategies to Fast WiFi for Travel! 

Why are they Van Life Essential?

1. Internet Access Anywhere
2. Work and Remote Learning
3. Entertainment
4. Navigation and Communication
5. High-Speed Connectivity

Best Places to Purchase: 

1. Amazon
2. Target
3. Walmart 

RELATED POST:

Beginners Guide: 7 Strategies to Fast WiFi for Travel

15 Road Trip Essentials That Need to Be on Your Packing List

Kitchen Van Life Essentials

Van Life Essentials: Mini Fridge with Freezer

A mini fridge with a freezer is crucial for van lifers. One of my friend’s biggest regrets was only getting a mini fridge, so she highly recommends investing in a combined unit! 

Having a mini fridge with a freezer allows you to keep perishables fresh longer, reduce food waste, and the need for frequent grocery trips. A freezer unit gives you access to ice on hot days and conveniently stores ice packs. Its energy-efficient design ensures minimal power consumption, vital for off-grid living. 

The EUHOMY Mini Fridge with Freezer is 3.2 Cu ft and has excellent reviews on Amazon—the customers like that it’s quiet and spacious inside.

Why are they Van Life Essential?

1. Food Preservation
2. Meal Planning
3. Compact Size
4. Versatility

Best Places to Purchase Van Life Essentials: 

1. Amazon
2. Target
3. Walmart

Van Life Essentials: An Air Fryer 

An air fryer is a must-have appliance no matter where you live! Van lifers especially benefit from this kitchen appliance because it saves space, operates efficiently, and is easy to use. 

These top-rated air fryers are user-friendly. They make cooking and cleaning quick and easy and use less oil to fry, promoting a healthier diet.

An air fryer is extremely versatile because it can bake, grill, roast, and fry different foods in one compact unit. Owning an air fryer eliminates the need for multiple kitchen gadgets, which saves you money and space. These appliances are also energy efficient, ensuring minimal power consumption. 

Why are they Van Life Essential?

1. Time Saver
2. Space-Saving
3. Energy Efficiency
4. Versatility

Best Places to Purchase Van Life Essentials: 

1. Amazon
2. Target
3. Walmart

Van Life Essential: Portable Propane Camping Stove

Cooking is necessary for survival, so having a portable propane camping stove is essential for van lifers, too. A camping stove allows you to prepare meals conveniently wherever you are and ensures you have a diverse diet on the road.

Gas One’s GS-3400P’s compact and lightweight design makes it easy to transport and store in a van’s limited space. A portable propane stove is vital because it allows you to cook meals without a campfire or electricity. Propane stoves are efficient, heating up quickly and allowing for precise temperature control, saving time and energy. 

Propane is also a safe and reliable fuel source, minimizing the risk of accidents or mishaps during cooking. Overall, a portable propane camping stove is a must-have for van lifers!

Why are they Van Life Essential?

1. Cooking Flexibility
2. Portability
3. Efficiency

Best Places to Purchase Van Life Essentials: 

1. Amazon
2. Target
3. Walmart

Van Life Essentials: Portable Electric Espresso Machine

If you love coffee, invest in a portable electric espresso machine! This Outin Nano portable espresso machine allows travelers to enjoy high-quality espresso without finding a coffee shop, saving time and money! 

I can’t live without coffee, so having the ability to brew quality coffee while traveling full-time adds just a little more enjoyment! Having your espresso maker provides a little luxury within your minimalist lifestyle. 

The Outin Nano’s compact design makes it easy to store and use in a van’s limited space. 

Why are they Van Life Essential?

1. Convenience
2. Cost Savings
3. Quality Coffee
4. Compact Size

Best Places to Purchase Van Life Essentials: 

1. Amazon
2. Target
3. Walmart

RELATED POST:

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Bathroom Van Life Essentials

Van Life Essentials: Dry Flush Toilet 

Laveo Dry Flush toilets are essential for van dwellers. Their compact design maximizes the use of limited space. 

This dry flush toilet has an innovative sealing mechanism that effectively controls odors, so you never have to worry about weird smells inside the van. It is simple and convenient to operate, with only the push of a button. 

It requires minimal maintenance, which reduces the hassle of waste disposal. The Dry Flush toilet uses minimal water and produces compact waste cartridges, promoting eco-friendliness in van life.  It is a convenient and sustainable solution for sanitation needs in the van life lifestyle.

Although it is a highly recommended product, it is pricey, so you must ensure it fits your budget. 

Why are they Van Life Essential?

1. Space Efficiency
2. Odor Control
3. Ease of Use
4. Low Maintenance
5. Environmental Friendliness

Best Places to Purchase Van Life Essentials: 

1. Amazon
2. Dry-Flush
3. Shop Tiny House

Van Life Essentials: Shower Head with Pause Button 

Conserving water is essential for van lifers, so having a shower head with a pause feature is necessary! Allowing you to pause the water flow while lathering or shampooing significantly reduces water consumption, which is crucial when the water supply may be limited. 

This handheld shower head has 6 settings in addition to the on/off feature, which enhances your comfort during showers. Whether you have a shower or not, van lifers still use gym showers to preserve water and save energy. This shower head can reduce hot water usage, save energy, and extend your van’s battery life. 

Why are they Van Life Essential?

1. Water Conservation
2. Comfort
3. Convenience

Best Places to Purchase Van Life Essentials: 

1. Amazon
2. Target
3. Walmart

Safety Van Life Essentials 

Van Life Essentials: Carbon Monoxide Detector

A carbon monoxide detector is essential for van lifers because it keeps them safe! 

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly, especially in a van’s confined space, where ventilation may be limited. A CO detector alerts riders to the presence of this dangerous gas, allowing for quick action to prevent poisoning. 

Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector is crucial for protecting lives. This battery-powered CO detector provides peace of mind, knowing that an essential safety measure is in place. Its compact and portable design makes it suitable for van living, and it helps comply with recommended safety standards, ensuring a safer and more secure living environment for van lifers.

Why are they Van Life Essential?

1. Safety
2. Early Detection
3. Peace of Mind
4. Portability
5. Compliance with Safety Standards

Best Places to Purchase Van Life Essentials: 

1. Amazon
2. Target
3. Walmart

Van Life Essentials: Magnetic Blackout Window Covers

Privacy and safety are vital, so magnetic blackout window covers are essential!  These top-rated Zatooto window sunshades provide privacy, temperature control, light blocking, and energy efficiency!

These covers ensure privacy by preventing outsiders from seeing inside the van and are easy to put and take down. They help regulate the van’s temperature by insulating against heat in the summer and retaining warmth in the winter. By blocking out light, they allow you to get better sleep and stay cool.

The energy efficiency gained from temperature control reduces the need for heating or cooling, conserving power. Their magnetic attachment system makes them easy to 

install and remove, offering convenience and adaptability for any van lifer’s needs.

Why are they Van Life Essential?

1. Privacy
2. Temperature Control
3. Light Blocking
4. Energy Efficiency

Best Places to Purchase Van Life Essentials: 

1. Amazon
2. Home Depot
3. Tlaks Magnetic Curtains

Van Life Essentials: GPS Communication Device

A GPS communication device’s safety features make it a must-have for van lifers! 

The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is a compact satellite communicator that offers navigation capabilities, safety features, reliable off-grid communication, and route planning assistance. 

It provides accurate navigation, helping van lifers find their way even in unfamiliar or remote areas. It can send SOS signals and location information to emergency rescuers, ensuring safety and timely assistance. 

This device allows communication in off-grid areas where cellular signals are weak or nonexistent, keeping connected with loved ones and emergency services. With its reliable connectivity, it offers consistent performance regardless of location. 

GPS communication devices enhance van life’s safety, connectivity, and navigational efficiency.

Why are they Van Life Essential?

1. Navigation
2. Safety and Emergency Use
3. Off-Grid Communication
4. Reliable Connectivity

Best Places to Purchase Van Life Essentials: 

1. Amazon
2. Garmin
3. REI Shop

After reading this post about the best van life essentials, you’ll be ready for your next adventure!