Shower Head – if you are building a shower in your van this is the BEST option. We use our shower a lot more in this van compared to our last because of this shower head. It uses 50% less water than a standard shower head which makes a HUGE difference when you live in a van and have limited water storage. It also has different setting, depending on hair type or if you want a spa-like vibe try the mist setting.
Renogy 320 watt Monocrystalline Residential Panels – *UPDATED SOLAR REVIEW* we are in the process of switching out our Grape Solar 100 watt panels back to the renogy panels we had on our first van. After testing out the smaller panels we realized the bigger residential panels are WAY more efficient – like a huge difference! The Grape Solar panels were also polycrystalline which also may have been why they weren’t as efficient for us. We are glad we could test out different options but we would recommend residential panels for maximum efficiency and better bang for your buck.
Flame King 12.2 Gallon RV, Van, Trailer Horizontal Propane Tank – When designing our build we wanted to maximize as much space as possible. Propane tanks can take up quite a bit of storage inside a van so we decided to buy a special RV tank so we could mount it underneath the van. We had to modify the brackets and make them shorter so it would fit under our axel.
Is there a traveler or a minimalist in your life? You want to give them a gift but you have no idea what to get them? As vanlifers/ minimalists we will always tell family and friends not to get us anything and by anything we usually mean THINGS. When your home is under 80sqft you have to be very intentional with what you bring into it.
As nomads we’ve come up with some gift ideas for the traveler in your life.
*First off, we’d like to say support local small businesses if you can. We put sustainability first above anything and supporting your local economy is important. But we know that can take some time and we are guilty of waiting last minute so we just hope this guide is helpful!
If you are looking to help a small business or support us, or just want some van roasted coffee shoot us a message on instagram to order (we can ship anywhere in the US)! To us, coffee is the perfect gift – who doesn’t like coffee!?
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The perfect van shoes/slippers. When you are constantly getting in and out of the van slip on shoes is key. Also just having an all purpose shoe – a minimalists dream.
If you’re into specialty coffee like us, then your worst nightmare is bad hotel or instant coffee. This coffee kit is perfect for the coffee lover, minimalist, or traveler in your life that appreciates a good cup. The kit comes with a grinder, kettle, and pour over system that all fits compact in it’s travel case. They currently have a holiday sale going on with 25% off plus use our code HUNTER5 for an additional discount!
The best insulated bottles and cups. We love these rocks glasses and use them for coffee in the morning or a cocktail while watching the sunset. They are durable, multi-use and perfect for any traveller.
A lot of vanlifers don’t have tvs. This mini projector is awesome because it’s space saving and just imagine an outdoor movie projected on the side of the van in the middle of the forest. EPIC!
The best gift for any vanlifer. Most vanlifers we know already have this, but since it is annual you may have to ask them first whether they have one or need a new one soon.
Yes Pakt has made it on this list twice because we love this company and their products. If you’re looking to support a smaller, more sustainable brand then look no further. This bag is perfect for the traveler/ nomad in your life. We love the minimalist design, and how thought out this bag is. Everything from the separate waterproof compartment, to the secret pockets and detachable fanny pack – we could go on and on. Definitely check them out. They currently have a holiday sale going on with 25% off plus use our code HUNTER5 for an additional discount!
Since many vanlifers don’t have tv or for those times you’re in the middle of a national forest without wifi or even just a rainy day, games are a must. But compact games are even better since we are in such a small space and limited to what we bring into it.
A skateboard or some other type of transportation is a great way to get around town without bringing the van. Just park the van somewhere and get out and explore. Or its just for fun – a lot of vanlifers are all about experiences. This lifestyle is all about slowing down, enjoying the simple things in life, getting out trying new things or picking up new hobbies.
The perfect gift for anyone traveling in a van, rv, skoolie! Rather than staying at a campground, you can stay at any of the wineries, breweries, farms in the network. It gives you a fun and unique stay and is A LOT cheaper than a campground – it basically pays for itself in 2 visits! Use our link to get 15% off!
We hope you found this post helpful. Obviously gas gift cards are nice but sometimes you want to give gifts that can be opened on Christmas day not just gift cards. A vanlifer, nomad, minimalist usually just wants things that will be useful if not experiences!
