🛠️ Welcome to My Resource & Gear Guide
One of the questions I get asked most often is:
“What do you actually use and love in your van?”
This page includes the gear, tools, and simple comforts that make van life easier, safer, and more enjoyable — especially as a solo female traveler over 50.
I don’t believe in overpacking or overcomplicating things. These are the items I rely on every day — chosen for comfort, safety, and sanity!
🚐 Van Life Essentials
• Power Station
I use a reliable solar panel and battery setup from Go Power to charge my phone, laptop, and small appliances.
→ I have a Jackery as a backup power source for those extra long stretches of no sun.
• 12V Fridge or Cooler
Keeping food fresh is a game changer. I use a electric fridge.
→ Tip: Use a small efficient unit that fits your space.
• Window Covers & Privacy Curtains
For insulation, privacy, and better sleep.
• Induction Burner
Quick, simple meals without taking up much room. I chose this over having a propane or butane stove so I could more easily cook indoors.
• Water Storage System
I carry 20 Galllon water tank for cooking and cleaning and a refllable 5 gallon jug for drinking water.
🛏️ Comfort & Organization
• Bedding Setup
My memory foam topper and MEC sleeping bag help me sleep well — even on cold nights. I have a spare blanket for the extra cold nights.
• Storage Bins & Packing Cubes
I keep things organized using stackable containers and flexible fabric cubes.
• Hooks, Clips & Bungees
These little tools hold up a lot — literally!
🧘♀️ Wellness & Safety
• Alarm option on my portable radio
For peace of mind when camping alone.
• Lightweight Yoga Mat
Stretches in the van or on a sunny patch of grass help keep me grounded.
• Headlamp & Flashlights
Always have backups — you never know.
📚 Books, Apps & Travel Tools
• iOverlander / FreeRoam / Campendium
For finding boondocking spots, water, and dump stations.
• Google Maps (Offline Maps Downloaded)
A must for remote areas.
• My Travel Journal
I write a few lines every day — it keeps me centered.
🔗 Related Blog Posts You Might Like
These blog posts pair perfectly with this page:
• 👉 What Do I Need? How to Do Vanlife Organization
A helpful post about how I organize my gear and choose what to bring.
• 👉 My Top 10 Surprises for Successful Van Life
Some of these items are mentioned in my list of “surprise must-haves”!
📌 Coming Soon…
Later I’ll share more details about:
• My full van build
• Favorite small-space kitchen gear
• How I stay connected on the road
🛍 Want to Support My Travels?
In future, I may include Amazon or other affiliate links for products I use and love — at no cost to you. Stay tuned!