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The first season in a van is often a mix of excitement, freedom, and discovery... but sometimes also minor frustrations or hard-learned lessons.
Many new vanlifers share the same regrets. Not because they did something wrong, but because they didn't know what they didn't know.
Today, we're reviewing the most common regrets after a first season of van life. And most importantly, how to avoid them so that your second season is even more comfortable, efficient, and fun!
1. Not thinking enough about insulating your van from the start
Many people realize after the season that their van is too cold in winter, too hot in summer, or that there is too much condensation inside.
Insulation is often seen as a secondary step when you start out, especially if you only travel in the summer. But with our variable climate, good insulation makes all the difference.
Our vanlife tip: Have your van properly insulated! Here are a few insulation options:
• Thinsulate panels (3M)
• Sound and thermal insulation
• Good quality insulated window covers...
for maximum comfort in all seasons!
2. Not planning enough functional storage space
At the end of the season, many people say, “I wish I had more storage space and that it was better optimized.”
In vanlife, every inch counts. And often, we underestimate how much stuff we accumulate during a trip: clothes, food, tools, camping equipment, etc.
Our vanlife tip: Plan a storage system that's truly suited to your lifestyle (sports, cooking, clothes, toys, etc.). For example:
• Modular drawers
• Storage under the seats
• Nets and straps
• Labeled bins
3. Not having enough power
“I realized that I often ran out of battery power or that my electrical system wasn't powerful enough.”
Many vanlifers set off with a basic battery and then discover that the fan, heating, fridge, lighting, electronic devices, etc. consume more power than expected.
Our vanlife tip: Consider an electrical system that is suited to your needs, with:
• A sufficient auxiliary battery
• A high-performance converter
• A custom-made electrical cabinet
We can help you plan the ideal energy autonomy for your lifestyle.
4. Not testing comfort before departure
Did you realize that the bed wasn't that comfortable or that the ventilation wasn't optimal?
In the excitement of finishing the layout, we sometimes overlook the comfort of the bed, ventilation options, insulated curtains, or ergonomic layout.
Our vanlife tip: Before embarking on a long adventure:
• Take a short test drive
• Spend a real night in the van
• Note what works and what you're missing
It's often the small adjustments that make all the difference.
5. Not taking the time to plan (and budget) projects in advance
You had lots of ideas... but by the end of the season, it was too late.
When you're in finishing mode and the season is starting, it becomes difficult to get everything done on time... especially if you want it done right.
Our vanlife tip: Take advantage of winter or the off-season to:
• List improvements
• Prioritize and plan according to usage
• Set a clear budget
We can support you every step of the way with your project, whether you want to delegate everything, do it all yourself, or a mix of both.
And in the end...
The first season in a van is often a steep learning curve.
The key? Don't hesitate to think, test, adjust, plan, and, above all, ask for advice. Because a well-designed van is a van that will faithfully follow you everywhere, without compromise.
How about we plan your second season together?
At Vanlife by Canada RV, we help you turn your ideas into reality, at your own pace, within your budget, and with a collaborative approach that respects your style.
Contact us to discuss your project!