Is a vanlife homebase necessary? Vanlife is a popular choice for those wanting a sense of adventure and freedom. There are many advantages to having a home base while living a nomadic lifestyle.
For me I love to come back to Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. I have lived in this area for most of my adult life. It is lovely to connect with family, friends and walk my old neighbourhoods. Having reliable and trustworthy businesses to help with van maintainence is also a huge plus.
I am a part owner of a family acreage in Northern Alberta. This is the place I enjoy spending a few months each summer. Here I can grow a vegetable garden, indulge my artistic side doing mosaics and visit with family.
Let’s explore the benefits of having a vanlife homebase:
1. Stability:
In my vanlife travels I explore and move around a lot. A home base provides a sense of stability and security. This is especially valuable during periods of bad weather, emergencies, or when I need a familiar place to rest and recharge. I find having a place I can return to if anything major goes wrong offers me peace of mind.
2. Community:
Having a home base gives me a way to keep healthy connections with my family, friends and my local community. By spending time in a familar place, I have the opportunity to chat with neighbors, support local businesses, and join in community events. These connections give me a sense of belonging that I don’t always feel when alone on the road.
3. A Vanlife Homebase Offers Ease:
My home base is a central hub, offering ease and convienence. Having easy access to electricity, water, laundry, and reliable wifi is wonderful. When on the road these can sometimes be more challenging to find. An official address can make receiving mail and deliveries less complicated.
4. Van Maintainence:
Having a vanlife homebase gives me the time and more space for maintainence or any van updates. It is also great to have the help and the neccessary equipment for doing this. Finding available and reliable people on the road is not always easy.
5. Cost of Van Living:
Vanlife is often promoted as being less expensive than normal life, but in my experience the costs still can add up. My home base gives me time to cut expenses and save money for my next travel adventure. Having a place to park for a few months that is affordable or free can save on camping fees and fuel costs. It also gives me time away from the stress that constant travelling can have on the mind and body.
6. Work-Life Balance:
For vanlifers doing remote or freelance work, having a home base can offer a healthier work-life balance. A workspace away from the confines of a van can improve productivity and focus. Having separate work and leisure spaces for a period of time helps with my overall well-being.
I love being on the road exploring new places and having a homebase enhances my nomadic lifestyle. It offers me a sense of belonging and gives me conveniences I don’t always have when on the road. Ultimately, the decision to have a home base is a personal one. Whatever you choose have a safe and fulfilling journey.