Van life offers freedom and adventure, but it also requires careful planning to prepare for unexpected challenges. From running out of water to dealing with no sufficent power, having reliable backups is essential for maintaining comfort and safety on the road. Here’s a guide to managing backups for water, power, food, money, and more during your van life journey.
1. Water Backups: Never Run Dry
Water is critical for drinking, cooking, cleaning, and hygiene, so always have a backup plan.
Extra Water Containers: Keep portable water jugs in addition to your main water tank. I carry 20 gallons in my water tank, a 5 gallon jug for drinking and a 1 gallon jug for emergencies.
Water Filters: Carry a portable water filter (like a LifeStraw or Sawyer Mini) to purify water from natural sources if needed. I don’t have a 4 wheel drive so do not go into extremely remote areas so I still have not purchased a water filter, but it is on my want list.
Refill Tracking: Regularly check and refill your tanks and bottles when near reliable sources, even if they’re not empty. This is especially important when I plan to boondock. I was in a situation this past fall where I was stuck for 4 days, but did not worry too much as I had lots of water and food..
2. Power Backups: Keeping the Lights On
Power outages can be a hassle, but preparation can keep your devices and appliances running.
Portable Power Stations: Invest in a compact power station (like a Jackery or EcoFlow) as a secondary energy source. For 3 years I relied solely on my van solar system but there have been times where an extra source would have come in handy. I now have a jackery as a backup for those cloudy weeks. It doesn’t run my kitchen but I can charge my devices and make a hot drink!
Solar Panels: Add a small, foldable solar panel to recharge devices during extended boondocking trips. A solar system was on top of my list when I purchased and refiited my van. I have never regretted spending that money. Solar makes my life much easier.
Backup Batteries: Keep extra batteries for critical items like flashlights, headlamps, and smoke detectors. My sink faucet stopped working one day and I did not realize there was a battery to operate it. I now carry an extra one just in case.
Manual Chargers: Hand-crank or pedal-powered chargers can be lifesavers in emergencies. I carry a solar crank radio which can also charge my cell phone if there is an emergency.
3. Food Backups: Preparing for the Unexpected
Unexpected delays or grocery shortages can make it hard to find food. Here’s how to stay stocked.
Non-Perishable Staples: Store canned goods, dried pasta, rice, nuts, and dehydrated meals. They last long and don’t require refrigeration. One of my favorite items I carry are packets of salmon and tuna. They are easy to eat if I have no power or a way to heat of any food and they do not take up much space
Meal Bars and Snacks: Keep protein bars, trail mix, and jerky for quick, easy nutrition. They also do not take up much space to store. I just make sure my nuts and seeds are kept in plastic containers to help prevent spoilage and mice.
Portable Stove or Grill: A backup cooking method, like a propane camp stove, ensures you can prepare meals even if your main setup fails. I have an induction burner for my cooking which is solar driven so I have a small camping propane burner for emergencies. I have never had to use it, but it is in the van just in case.
Rotating Stock: Regularly check expiration dates and rotate through your supplies to avoid spoilage. I try to eat up what I have in the van then do a big shop once a month, ensuring everything is fresh.
Pet Safety: As I am now travelling with a pet cat I make sure I have extra food and water for her.
4. Money Backups: Avoid Financial Stress
Access to funds can be tricky on the road, especially in rural areas. Plan ahead to prevent financial hiccups.
Emergency Cash: Carry small denominations of cash in a hidden, secure spot for places that don’t accept cards.
Multiple Payment Methods: Have at least two debit/credit cards and store one separately in case of loss or theft.
Unexpected Expenses Set aside a larger-than-normal emergency fund for unexpected repairs, medical needs, or other crises.
Digital Wallets: Apps like PayPal or Venmo can provide an alternative payment method if your cards are compromised.
5. Navigation and Communication Backups
Getting lost or losing cell service is a real possibility in remote areas. Van life backups are essential if you are going off road especially as a solo traveller.
Paper Maps and Atlases: Always carry detailed maps of the regions you’re traveling through. I love paper maps and use them to plan my trips.
Offline GPS Apps: Download maps and routes to apps like Gaia GPS or Google Maps before heading into areas with no service.
Two-Way Radios: A set of walkie-talkies or a CB radio can help you communicate when phone signals fail. I don’t have this but am thinking of something when I do my Alaska roadtrip.
Emergency Locator Beacon: Devices like a Garmin inReach allow you to send SOS signals and stay connected in remote areas. I make sure I have cell service when I camp which is one of my saftey “must haves” as a solo traveller.
6. Health and First Aid Backups
Health issues can arise unexpectedly, so it’s vital to be prepared.
First Aid Kit: Keep a fully stocked kit with bandages, antiseptics, medications, and emergency tools.
Backup Medications: Store extra doses of any prescription medications you need.
Hygiene Supplies: Pack biodegradable wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and a portable toilet as backups for hygiene.
Emergency Contacts: I keep a list of emergency numbers of family and friends in my van and another in my every day bag.
7. Miscellaneous Van Life Backups
Some additional items can save the day in various scenarios:
Fuel Shortage: Always keep your fuel tank above half and if you feel it is needed carry a small reserve gas can for emergencies.
Tools and Spare Parts: A basic toolkit, duct tape, zip ties, and spare fuses can help with minor repairs.
Backup Clothing: Weather can change quickly, so keep extra layers, waterproof gear, and socks handy. A wool blanket is great when the temperature drops.
Portable Shelter: A lightweight tarp or tent can be invaluable if you need to camp outside your van temporarily.
Fire Starters: Matches, lighters, and fire starters are useful for cooking or warmth in emergencies.
Final Tips for Your Van Life Backups Preparation
Regular Maintenance: Keep your van in top condition with routine maintenance checks to prevent breakdowns.
Test Your Gear: Practice using your backups so you’re familiar with them when the need arises. I bought a tire compressor last summer but still have not had to use it, I need to do a practice session to learn how to work it.
Stay Informed: Check weather forecasts, road conditions, and local advisories before heading out.
Being prepared doesn’t mean sacrificing your sense of adventure—it’s about ensuring you’re ready for anything the road throws your way. With proper backups in place, you’ll enjoy peace of mind and the freedom to explore without worry. Safe travels, and happy van living!