Here is a small list of things I’ve learned after a few years living/traveling in my vans. I’m sure these will grow with time.

Vehicle Advice

• Double check your jack before a trip, a spare is useless otherwise.
• Even if doing a drive for the day, carry food and water for three.
• If you’re really heading into the wilderness, an extra serpentine belt isn’t a bad idea.
• If you’re in the West and below half a tank, stop at the next gas station.

Camp Advice

• The worse the road, the sparser the neighbors.
• If you don’t want neighbors, a tin foil hat sends a pretty clear signal.
• The closer you are to foliage, the more likely a mouse will find your vehicle.
• Think about what a prospective camp will look like in a torrential downpour.
• Most BLM and Forrest Service land allows up to 14 days of free camping, go cheap.
• Always have a plan-B for your hoped campsite, coming up with one at 11pm sucks.
• You’ll have better relations with Rangers, Game Wardens, etc. if you have a tidy camp.