Photo by Zeb Zakovics on Unsplash
The appeal of freedom, exploration, and minimalist living draws many people to van life. Taking to the open road in a kitted-out camper has become an increasingly popular lifestyle choice in recent years, from bloggers and YouTubers to solo travellers looking for a budget-friendly way to explore the world.
However, safety should always be a top priority for anyone living and travelling in a campervan. This guide breaks down the most important safety practices to help you prevent common accidents and ensure your journey is both safe and enjoyable.
Is campervan living safe?
A common question for those considering van life is whether it’s a safe lifestyle. Although some may associate van life with criminal activity or unsafe situations, the reality is quite different. Living in a campervan can be just as safe, if not safer, than living in a traditional home. Safety often comes down to being aware of your surroundings, practising good judgement, and trusting your instincts.
A key tip for safe travel is to trust your intuition—avoid parking in isolated areas, especially at night, and always stay alert to your environment, especially when you’re on busy roads where pedestrians could be at risk. Following these basic safety measures can go a long way in ensuring a positive and secure van life experience.
Plan routes in advance
Part of the joy of travelling with your home around you is the freedom to change your location on a whim. But in order to do so safely, it’s worth planning your routes before you set off. When it comes to road safety, preparation is crucial. More than just your surroundings, being prepared for the challenges of the road can help you avoid or quickly manage accidents. Being ready for unexpected breakdowns or hazards can help you stay safe throughout your travels.
Having a route in mind will prevent you from getting stuck in the middle of nowhere with no way to get help. Whether you’re setting off to visit a major landmark or cruising through remote towns and villages, pre-plan where you’re headed before you find yourself without a phone signal and no route back.
Get roadside cover in place
As is a wise decision for any driver, it’s well worth investing in reliable breakdown assistance services when you’re spending a considerable amount of time on the road. Regardless of the unpredictable issue you may encounter, a flat tyre or engine trouble, having access to professional help can be a lifesaver when you’re stranded. Many insurance providers also offer breakdown cover, but be sure to review the details of the policy to make sure you’re fully protected.
Carry essential safety gear with you
Whether you’re a travel enthusiast, a digital nomad or someone simply looking to downsize their life, there is certain equipment you shouldn’t be without, no matter how long you’ll be on the road for.
This includes tyre chains, especially if you’re moving through areas which are prone to snow and ice, and a portable air compressor to keep your tyres at the right pressure—critical for both safe driving and fuel efficiency.
Another tool to have to hand is vehicle traction boards which can help you get your van unstuck from mud or sand, both common when travelling off the beaten path. Combined with jump leads and a tow rope, you’ll hopefully be able to remove yourself from any difficult environments with ease.
For safety, a fire extinguisher is essential, especially when travelling to remote areas where help may be limited. Lastly, keep a spare jerry can in the boot in case you run out of fuel in a remote area.
Keep high-ticket items locked away
When you’re driving a campervan, it’s not just your vehicle that’s at risk but also the belongings you’re travelling with. For digital nomads and those making a career on the road, this can result in valuable and necessary items like laptops and camera equipment, so take the necessary precautions to keep these items locked away and out of sight.
In addition to a steering wheel lock, which makes driving off with your van much more difficult for would-be thieves, you also want to enhance the security of the doors by investing in additional locks for rear and side entrances. Heavy-duty locks provide added protection against forced entry, keeping both you and your belongings safe.
Use a lockable case to securely hide any high-ticket items and remove them from view when you’re not in your van. Likewise, in the unfortunate event that your van is stolen, having a GPS tracker installed can help you locate it and improve your chances of recovering your van quickly.
Adopt safe habits for the road
Safe habits are crucial in minimising the risk of accidents or theft on the road. In addition to having the right tools and safety equipment, it’s important to maintain a low profile by keeping the exterior of your van simple and not overly decorated. The less attention your van draws, the lower the chance of it becoming a target for thieves. Alarms and window films can help to protect your items and minimise visibility.
Naturally, you should also always lock your van before going to sleep or when leaving it parked, even if the area feels safe or you’ll only be gone for a short time. This basic precaution can prevent break-ins and keeps you and your belongings safe. Perhaps most importantly, trust your instincts. If a place or situation feels off, it’s better to move on to a safer location. Listening to your gut can help you avoid risky situations.
While living and travelling in a campervan offers such a unique sense of freedom and adventure, there’s no denying it also requires heightened awareness of safety too. By following the safety practices we’ve outlined here and being prepared for the challenges you might face along the way, you can enjoy a safe and fulfilling van life experience.
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