Embracing Vanlife: Josh and Harriet’s Journey

International travel has slowed down in 2020; however, it has given rise to local and regional experiences being explored by many. Moreover, what better way to change your scenery than in a camper van? For one UK couple, Josh and Harriet, making their vanlife dreams a reality afforded them a sense of immense freedom and adventure.

“We were inspired to get into vanlife after feeling like there had to be more to life than working every day. We wanted to get out there, see new places, and travel comfortably in a home we had created. Therefore, we decided to buy a VW T5 while still working and slowly converted it over a period of a few months. We set a date to quit our jobs and start our trip around Europe and successfully completed our van in time,” Josh and Harriet shared.

The couple travelled for three months starting in May 2019 before their van broke down and they had to return to the UK. While at home, they fixed up the van, sold it, and used the money to buy a bigger vehicle, which they converted and named Monty. The transformation was completed in five weeks, with Josh and Harriet acquiring new skills as they progressed. There was a plan to travel back to Europe in April this year before the impact of Coronavirus disrupted their plans.

In their old van, Josh and Harriet travelled through countries like Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, Austria, Switzerland, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Italy. Norway is on their travel bucket list for the future, along with Sweden and Denmark. They also expressed their desire to tour Canada and the United States by van. Consequently, with COVID-19 complicating international travel, Monty provides them the option to explore their own country at their own pace. Recently, they enjoyed their first drive in months with their dog, Hudson, relishing the experience.

When it comes to offering advice to others considering vanlife, the couple encourages taking the plunge. “It’s the best thing we’ve ever done! The vanlife community is amazing; there are always people on Instagram who can help answer any questions you have, and there is extensive support out there for this lifestyle. It’s comforting to have a large group of individuals living similarly as support. Also, make your van as homely as possible — it’s a great comfort when miles away from home!”

Josh and Harriet’s adventures can be followed on their Instagram profile.