Van life isn’t just about hitting the road and living an adventurous life, it’s also about having the right gear. Whether you’re a full-time van dweller or just getting started with your van, we’ve rounded up the best accessories for you. From solar panels to cookware, these are must-haves for any aspiring van lifer!
Table of Contents
MaxTrax Recovery Boards
Source: motortrend.com
MaxTrax recovery boards are an essential tool for any van lifer looking to explore off the beaten path. I always make sure I have a set on hand before heading out on an adventure. Not only do they come in handy when you need to recover your vehicle, but they can also be used to provide traction for your tires when you are stuck in mud, sand, or snow.
They are made of a durable material that can handle the toughest terrain and are easy to store and transport. Plus, reviews of MaxTrax recovery boards are incredibly positive, so you know you’re investing in quality.
Battery Booster
After stocking up on some essential MaxTrax Recovery Boards, the next item on my list for van life essentials is a car battery booster. It’s important to have a reliable way to jump-start your vehicle if it ever runs out of power. That’s why I recommend the Jackery Explorer 1000 and 2x Solar Saga Pack – it’s the perfect backup car battery jump starter that requires no other vehicle.
With an 800A peak current and 18000mAh capacity, this device can easily jump-start cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, and more. Plus, its solar panels make it totally independent so you never have to worry about running out of power.
First Aid Kit
Source: uoflhealth.org
Having a first aid kit on hand is essential for any van-lifer. From minor scrapes and cuts to more serious emergencies, you never know when you might need a little extra help. TouRig recently partnered with Outer Limit Supply to create the ideal adventure rig van first aid kit, complete with necessary items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment, and more, so you can be prepared for whatever comes your way.
Additionally, if you’re an avid camper or outdoorsman, having a well-stocked first aid kit is essential. No matter where your van takes you, you’ll be covered if any mishaps occur. With all the other van life essentials like MaxTrax recovery boards, car battery booster, solar panels and more in tow, adding a first aid kit to the mix is a no-brainer.
Jackery Explorer 1000 and 2x Solar Saga Pack
When it comes to powering a van, I rely on the Jackery Explorer 1000 and 2x Solar Saga Pack. This portable power station and solar generator combo provide all the energy I need for my off-grid adventures. The Explorer 1000 is equipped with four USB ports, so I can charge up to four devices at once, while the two SolarSaga 100w solar panels keep the power on in any environment.
With a full charge in just 1.8 hours, I can get back to my explorations quickly. And with its 1002Wh capacity, I never worry about running out of power. Whether I’m road-tripping or boondocking, having a dependable energy source is a game changer for your van life journey.
Magnetic Torch
Source: first4magnets.com
A magnetic torch light is a great accessory for van lifers to have on hand. Whether you’re out on a hike or just exploring the local area, having a reliable light source that can be easily attached to any surface is a must.
This type of torch is also great for camping trips, as it can be attached to tents and other surfaces and will provide adequate lighting without having to worry about battery life. With its versatile design, the magnetic torch is the perfect addition to any van-lifer’s toolkit and will ensure that you’re never left in the dark.
Rooftop AC Unit
Rooftop air conditioners for vans are the perfect way to keep cool in hot climates. Installing a rooftop AC unit is simple and efficient, using only 22-55 amps (at 12 volt DC) when running. A variety of models are available, including the Coleman Mach 8 9200 Plus Cub, the Victron 3000w multiplus inverter/charger, and the Dometic Brisk 2.
For those seeking maximum cooling power, Nomadic Cooling offers a variety of tested units that work well in any conditions. Additionally, the Air Conditioner Adapter Kit For Vans enables even longer off-grid use with their inverter/charger. Rooftop air conditioners for vans provide superior cooling power with minimal energy consumption and space requirements.
MoonShade Awning
Source: moonfab.com
When it comes to van life accessories, the MoonShade Awning is an excellent choice. Not only is it lightweight and portable, but it also provides much-needed shade from the sun and protection from the rain. It’s stowed size is 28” x 6” and it only weighs eight pounds, making it incredibly easy to transport and set up.
Whether you’re hitting the beach for the day or camping for the weekend, a MoonShade Awning will ensure that you stay cool and comfortable no matter what mother nature throws at you. It’s a great addition to any van life set up, and can make all the difference in your outdoor adventures.
Hammock
When it comes to relaxation and comfort, nothing beats a hammock. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax or sleep, hammocks are a great van life accessory. Fold-up fabric hammocks are easy to set up, lightweight and provide plenty of comfort.
Plus, they’re inexpensive and popular with van lifers. So if you’re looking for a way to level up your relaxation game, grab a hammock and hang it between two trees. With all the other van life accessories on this list, you can make sure your time on the road is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
Portable Solar Panel
Source: amazon.com
Having a great solar panel is essential to make sure your van is powered, no matter the weather. The Jackery Explorer 1000 and 2x Solar Saga Pack are my go-to solar set up. With this pair of panels, I can power all my devices, charge my batteries, and keep my lights on no matter where I am.
They’re highly portable, so I can take them out into the great outdoors and get some free energy from the sun! Plus, with a MoonShade Awning, I can set up my panels for optimal solar power in a jiffy.
Portable Toilet
When it comes to camper van toilets, there are two popular options – cassette and composting. A self-contained composting toilet, like Nature’s Head model, is a great choice if you want to save space while still having a reliable toilet. It has a huge capacity and is designed for portability and convenience.
Additionally, if you need a more compact model for your van, the Camco Portable Travel Toilet is a great option. It has a 5.3-gallon capacity and comes with a waste bag kit for easy disposal. Whichever option you choose, having a toilet on board your van is essential for long trips, so make sure to consider the best models for your needs before heading out on the road.
Camping Table and Chairs
Source: livingandhome.co.uk
Finding the perfect van life accessories can seriously improve your camping experience. A folding aluminum camping table and chairs can be a great addition to your van, as they give you a place to sit and eat meals outdoors. Plus, bamboo travel mugs make a great present for the van life enthusiast in your life.
Well-priced camping furniture can also usually be found at a local camping store or online. If you are low on space, consider getting the Crazy Creek Padded Folding Chair or an REI Flexlite Camp Chair.
A camp chair just isn’t complete without a MiiR camp cup – nothing beats a hot beverage in the morning! Having the right van life accessories will help make your experience all the more enjoyable – so don’t forget to pack your camping table and chairs for your next adventure.
