Let’s talk money. It’s one of the biggest questions people have about van life — and for good reason. Can it actually save you money? How much will it cost to get started? And what about income — how do people afford this lifestyle?
In this part of the guide, we’ll break it all down: van life expenses, budgeting tips, and creative ways to make money on the road.
💌 This is part of our Ultimate Guide to Van Life – a members-only series for subscribers of Campers & Camping.
In this in-depth series, we share everything you need to know about van life: from choosing your first camper van, to budgeting, working remotely, and handling the realities of life on the road.
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📚 Ultimate Guide to Van Life – Table of Contents:
- Is this lifestyle really for you?
- Choosing or building your camper van
- How much does van life cost, and can it save you money? ← You are here
- Full-time vs. part-time van living - How to choose?
- The unglamorous stuff: parking, showers, toilets & more
- Finding community and staying connected
How much does van life cost?
Van life is flexible — and so are the costs. Your monthly spending could be under $1,000 or well over $3,000 depending on your lifestyle choices, travel style, and setup.
Here’s a rough idea of where your money might go each month:
| Expense | Approx. Range |
|---|---|
| Fuel | $200–$600 (depending on how much you drive) |
| Food | $300–$600 (groceries + eating out) |
| Campgrounds / overnight parking | $0–$600 (you can boondock for free, or stay at paid sites) |
| Insurance (vehicle + health) | $100–$300 |
| Phone / WiFi / hotspot | $50–$150 |
| Repairs / maintenance | Budget at least $100/month |
| Misc. (laundry, propane, gear) | $100–$300 |
💡 Quick tip: keep a buffer fund. Unexpected repairs are common, especially if you're on the road a lot or your van is older.
Upfront costs: the big spend
Starting van life requires an initial investment. Here's what that might look like:
- Buying a van: $5,000–$100,000+
(depends on if you go used, new, or fully custom) - DIY conversion supplies: $3,000–$20,000
(solar, electrics, insulation, vibration dampening, plumbing, furniture, tools) - Pre-converted van: $30,000–$120,000
(prices have risen, but you’re buying time + expertise) - Registration, insurance, inspection: varies by state
The key is knowing your priorities. Do you need a fancy van, or just one that gets you moving, and is reliable? Are you okay with minimal amenities if it means getting on the road sooner?
Can van life really save you money?
For a lot of people — yes. But it depends on your lifestyle before van life, and how you choose to live during it.
You might save a lot if:
