Seven Essential Items to Survive Vanlife.

Moving into a van meant downsizing and simplifying all of our stuff to fit in such a small space. At first, this was a daunting challenge, but when I considered what I really needed to be comfortable, it was quite simple. Here is a list of my favorite vanlife essentials that have made the van feel like home.

Teapot

Waking up on a cold chilly morning whether deep in a forest, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, or admiring the Walmart parking lot, a warm cup of tea is a must. Without much hassle, we fire up the stove and place our adorable little teapot on the stove. When the little teapot shouts, we pour it over and enjoy the warmth of the tea or coffee.

The Speciality Van Shoes

Living in a van meant giving up all of my cute boots and other shoes I owned. However, there are two pairs of shoes, I don’t think I could live without. My cold-weather shoes, the Tevas, may seem dorky at first but as I slid my foot into these warm comfy down shoes I was a goner. I will take my Tevas over fashion any day. My warm-weather shoes, the Birks, are my stylist sandals even when I wear them with socks. They provide so much arch support that I could walk for miles in them.

 Flannel Blanket

I love being cozy. Nothing is quite as satisfying as curling up with a blanket, watching the snow fall, and reading a good book. I knew I needed the perfect blanket that not only would provide warmth but also a pop of color. Grant’s parents gave us the perfect blanket. As many of you know, Grant lost his brother 8 years ago. A blanket was created out of Noel’s flannels. Having this meaningful blanket not only keeps us warm, it reminds us of the wonderful memories we shared with Noel.

Broom and Vacuum.

I know, I know. A broom and a vacuum as favorite things? Being in such a small space, there is a fine line from living comfortably or living in a dump. Having a dog that sheds continuously and is constantly rolling in dirt, we literally clean the van at least 5 times a day. Having a nifty broom that can reach small spaces and a vacuum that sucks up all the hair, allows us to live in a clean environment without taking up to much storage.

 Library

I have always found it humorous that Grant’s parents call their office or study the “Library”. What are we, a royal family? But being an Ordelheide now, I have adapted to the Ordelheide way. We have a “Library” in the van. The library started out as a joint collection of books. As it become increasingly obvious that Grant would be too busy with photography and driving to read, I switched out his books and added more of my romance novels. He may be disappointed with the book selection if he ever gets around to looking in it. I on the other head, can always be found deep in a love story.

The pump shower

If I am in a bad mood (I know hard to believe) it usually means one of two things. I need a bathroom or a hot shower. Being in a remote location usually means there is no running water. Fortunately for us, we have a pump shower. We set up a make shift shower outside, boil some hot water, and rinse off. I don’t know who appreciates me showering more, Grant or I, after I have washed away the bad smells and the bad moods.

The National Park Tea towels

I love collecting tea towels from different places I have traveled. My sister for Christmas gifted me a National Park Tea towel. Not only has it come in handy while doing the dishes, it helps me study my geography. I have had to only reference it a few times.