13 High-Tech Gadgets That Are Revolutionizing Van Life

Van lifers no longer have to “rough it” (if they don’t want to). Nowadays, so much technology is out there that makes van life more comfortable and efficient for anyone who dreams of living on the road. Some gadgets help van lifers stay easily connected with their friends and family across the globe, while others allow them to live off-grid for days on end. 

In this article, we’ll share our top 13 gadgets that have changed van life. Check out these revolutionary technologies that enhance the van lifestyle.

1. Portable Solar Panels

It’s rare to see a van without solar panels, especially if someone lives in it full-time. With solar panels, you no longer need to camp somewhere with an electric hookup. Solar panels provide renewable energy for van lifers to use devices and appliances that allow them to live and work from just about anywhere. Some powerful and versatile options include panels from Goal Zero and Renogy.

2. Lithium Battery Power Stations

Many lifers use solar panels to power their portable lithium battery power stations. These power stations (like the Inergy Kodiak, Jackery Explorer or Goal Zero Yeti) allow van lifers to charge electronics and power small appliances. 

3. WiFi Boosters and Mobile Hotspots

Whether you work remotely or just want to stay connected to the internet for entertainment, many devices allow van lifers to get online (even from the top of a mountain). There are boosters like the WeBoost Drive 4G-X RV and mobile hotspot plans from carriers like Visible to help you connect.

4. Portable Projectors

As a van lifer, you don’t have to settle for your phone or laptop to watch TV and movies. Small, portable projectors like the Anker Nebula Capsule allow van lifers to turn a wall (or the side of their van) into a mini movie theater. 

5. Smart RV Systems

Like smart systems for your house to control light, water, and temperature, you can now do the same in your van. Smart RV systems like the Garmin RV 890 provide centralized control from one interface. You can also purchase a Waggle to monitor the temperature inside your van or RV while you’re away to ensure your pet is comfortable.

6. Portable Air Conditioners

Van lifers know that sometimes opening the windows doesn’t cut it—especially on a hot day when there’s no breeze. Portable air conditioners like the Zero Breeze Mark 2 are compact and efficient, providing much-needed relief on those hot days.

7. Smart Refrigerators

In recent years, fridges for van life have improved greatly. They barely draw any power to run 24/7. Smart refrigerators from companies like Dometic or ARB are energy-efficient and include features like temperature control and low-power modes.

8. Advanced Navigation Systems

Apps like Google Maps and Apple Maps weren’t designed for high-clearance vehicles. Thankfully, GPS units for RVs (like the Garmin RV 890) plan routes around the size and weight of your van. These navigation systems can help van lifers avoid low bridges and narrow roads.

9. Portable Water Purifiers

Although most van lifers fill their water with potable water from spigots, sometimes this isn’t an option. Thankfully, devices like the Lifesaver Jerrycan or Grayl Geopress purify water so van lifers can drink clean water on the go.

10. Electric Bikes and Scooters

Many van lifers bring bikes and scooters on the road to explore a new area and park their van in one spot without moving it. With the invention of e-bikes and e-scooters, van lifers can get to places and explore camping areas even more quickly and efficiently.

11. Security Systems

Some van lifers have expensive items in their rigs or precious belongings that they want to protect. Security systems like SimpliSafe or Ring cameras offer van lifers peace of mind when they’re away from their van. These solutions often have features like motion detectors, cameras, or alarms.

12. Reliable Heaters

Van lifers don’t need to pile on blankets to sleep comfortably when temperatures dip. With better diesel and gasoline heaters and portable options like the Mr. Heater Buddy, van lifers can keep warm in even the coolest climates.

13. Portable Washing Machines

One of most van lifers’ least favorite chores is heading to a laundromat because they’re expensive and take time away from adventuring. With the invention of portable, compact washing machines like the Scrubba Wash Bag or the Lavario Portable Clothes Washer, van lifers can do laundry right from their campsite.