Travelling in a Van with Two Young Kids - Are We Crazy?
Last year we sold our house and moved into our van full-time. Living and traveling in a van with two young kids is not without its challenges, and this week, we're chatting about the ups and the downs of how it feels to travel across Europe while trying to raise two small humans.
This episode was recorded in our campervan in a cold and rainy France, on our way up to Sweden.
The Journey Begins
As we shoot this podcast episode about van life from our cozy confined campervan, the sound of rain pattering on the roof is a constant reminder of our current whereabouts—France. But unlike the sunny days one might expect in southern Europe, we are encapsulated by a very cold, very rainy France.
The Weather Woes
We’ve been discussing the shocking difference in temperature as we traveled. Just a few days ago, we were in Spain, where the temperatures plummeted rapidly from 25 degrees to a chilling 6 degrees Celsius as we crossed into France. It’s these stark contrasts that make vanlife both thrilling and unpredictable.
Van Life with Kids
One of the key takeaways from this podcast episode about vanlife is our attempt to convey the reality of van life with kids. Many people are surprised (and sometimes impressed) when they learn that we live and travel in a van with our young ones. This life isn’t always easy, but it is rich in experiences and lessons for both us and our children. We’ve been driving around 2-4 hours each day, and it’s definitely starting to take its toll. Managing meal stops, shopping, and constant activities with young kids can turn a simple drive into a full-day ordeal.
Challenges and Adjustments
Traveling with children means constant adjustments. Sometimes their tolerance for the journey is fantastic, but other days, we can barely get them into the van without a meltdown. Despite these challenges, we often find solace in small victories—like when the kids are excited about the next destination or when they manage to be well-behaved on particularly long stretches of the road.
Living in a van brings its own set of logistical challenges. Our van is packed with not just essentials, but also the kids’ toys, bikes, and other comforts from home that we couldn’t leave behind. Space is limited, but we’ve learned to adapt and make the most out of every inch.
Special Experiences for the Kids
One of the remarkable benefits of this life is the unique experiences it offers the kids. From recognising the smell of leaking grey water to identifying countries they are traveling through, our kids are learning weird and awesome stuff in ways that a traditional upbringing might not provide. They understand geographic locations and cultural differences, often surprising us with their knowledge and adaptability.
Cancer and Vanlife
Cancer has inevitably been a significant part of our journey. Living in a van has allowed us to focus on family time and healing in ways that staying in one place simply couldn't. There’s something profoundly therapeutic about waking up in a new location, experiencing different vistas, and sharing these moments together. This lifestyle has offered a unique way to cope with the demands and emotional tolls of cancer. Being constantly on the move has brought a new perspective that helps ease the burden and keeps our spirits high.
The Bond of Family
At the core of this podcast about vanlife was the discussion about how traveling in a van has brought us closer as a family. Living in such close quarters can be a test of patience and resilience, but it also fosters a deep bond that we wouldn’t trade for anything. We’ve learned to communicate better, support each other through tough times, and truly cherish the moments of joy and adventure we share.
Breaking the Norms
Our primary message to other families is that van life with kids is achievable. The societal norms that suggest you must settle down or refrain from taking risks once you have children are just that—norms, not rules. Our experience proves that with the right mindset and willingness to adapt, you can embark on unique and fulfilling journeys even with young kids in tow.
Living in a van while raising children presents a mix of chaotic moments and harmonious adventures. From managing daily routines in tight spaces to exploring new horizons, vanlife challenges us constantly but also rewards us in unexpected ways. As long as we are confident in our choices and the path we’ve taken, we continue to find joy and fulfillment in our nomadic lifestyle.
Thank you for joining us on this episode. Make sure to follow our podcast for more insights and stories from our life on the road. See you next week!
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Listen to our full discussion on the latest episode of our podcast. Whether you dream of adopting the vanlife or are just curious about how we manage, join us as we navigate this unique journey together.