15 Job Ideas to Help You Pursue Van Life
Van life offers the freedom to explore while still making a living, but it also requires a job that allows for flexibility and mobility. Luckily, remote work and gig opportunities have expanded, offering van lifers a wide range of options to sustain their lifestyle. If you’re ready to hit the road and need ideas to fund your journey, here are 15 jobs that can help you live life on your terms. 1. Freelance Writer Freelance writing is a top choice for van lifers because it only requires a laptop and internet connection. You can write blogs, articles, marketing copy, or even ghostwrite for clients. Popular platforms like Upwork and Fiverr are great for finding gigs, but building a personal portfolio and pitching to companies directly can lead to higher-paying, long-term clients. Qualifications: Writing skills and a niche (like tech, travel, or finance) can give you an edge. 2. Virtual Assistant As a virtual assistant, you’ll handle tasks like email management, scheduling, and social media for businesses. It’s a flexible job that can be done from anywhere. Many start by offering services through platforms like Belay or Time Etc., but as you build a reputation, you can charge higher rates. Qualifications: Strong organizational skills and familiarity with digital tools (e.g., Google Workspace, Zoom). 3. Graphic Designer If you have a knack for design, freelance graphic design can be a great option. You can create logos, marketing materials, or website layouts for clients. Websites like 99designs and Dribbble are helpful for finding clients, but building your own site to showcase your work can help attract higher-paying projects. Qualifications: Proficiency in software like Adobe Creative Suite or Canva. 4. Social Media Manager Social media management is ideal for van lifers who enjoy engaging with people and growing communities online. You’ll plan content, interact with followers, and track analytics. You can work with companies, influencers, or small businesses. Experience with platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn is key. Qualifications: Familiarity with social media algorithms and scheduling tools like Buffer or Hootsuite. 5. Online English Teacher Teaching English online is a flexible way to make money while traveling. Companies like VIPKid or Cambly allow you to teach students in different countries with just a laptop and stable internet. You can also offer private tutoring through sites like iTalki. Qualifications: A TEFL certification is often required, but some platforms accept native speakers without it. 6. Web Developer With coding skills, you can build websites, apps, or software from your van. Web development is in high demand, and remote work is standard. You can work for companies as a contractor or take freelance gigs on platforms like Toptal and Freelancer. Qualifications: Proficiency in coding languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript is necessary. 7. Photographer Photography allows you to capture your travels while earning money. You can sell stock images on platforms like Shutterstock, take photos for clients, or offer sessions in the areas you’re traveling through. Van lifers who specialize in travel, outdoor, or product photography can carve out a niche. Qualifications: A good camera, editing software like Lightroom, and a portfolio to showcase your skills. 8. Online Coach If you have expertise in a specific field—fitness, nutrition, business—you can become an online coach. Through platforms like Zoom or Skype, you can meet with clients from anywhere. Coaches can also sell digital products like e-books or courses to create multiple income streams. Qualifications: Expertise in your field and certifications (for fitness, nutrition, or life coaching). 9. eCommerce Seller Running an online store allows you to sell products while traveling. You can use platforms like Etsy, Shopify, or Amazon to sell handmade goods, digital downloads, or even dropship products. Some van lifers sell items like travel accessories or artwork they create on the road. Qualifications: Understanding of eCommerce platforms and basic marketing strategies. 10. Travel Blogger or Vlogger If you’re passionate about documenting your van life journey, consider blogging or vlogging about your experiences. Through platforms like YouTube or a personal blog, you can monetize through ads, sponsorships, or affiliate marketing. While building an audience takes time, the payoff can be substantial. Qualifications: Writing, photography, or video editing skills. Consistency and engagement are key to growing an audience. Browse Camper Van Builds 11. Remote Customer Service Representative Many companies are shifting their customer service teams to remote roles, offering flexibility for van lifers. You’ll handle customer inquiries via phone, chat, or email. These jobs typically have set hours, but they allow you to work from anywhere with an internet connection. Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a reliable internet connection. Experience in customer service is a plus. 12. Transcriptionist Transcription involves listening to audio and converting it to text. While some roles require specific expertise (e.g., legal or medical transcription), there are general transcription jobs available. Platforms like Rev and TranscribeMe offer entry-level gigs. Qualifications: Fast typing speed and attention to detail. A foot pedal and transcription software can also help speed up work. 13. SEO Specialist If you’re knowledgeable about search engine optimization (SEO), you can help businesses improve their online visibility. You’ll analyze websites, create strategies, and implement SEO best practices. You can work as a freelancer or for an agency. Qualifications: Familiarity with SEO tools like SEMrush, Ahrefs, or Google Analytics is essential. 14. Affiliate Marketer Affiliate marketing allows you to earn money by promoting products or services. By sharing affiliate links through a blog, social media, or YouTube, you can earn a commission whenever someone makes a purchase through your link. Popular affiliate networks include Amazon Associates and ShareASale. Qualifications: A platform with an engaged audience and understanding of content marketing. 15. Freelance Videographer/Editor If you have a passion for video, working as a videographer or editor is a great fit. You can film and edit videos for clients or produce your own content to sell. Van life provides plenty of opportunities to shoot travel footage that can be sold as
Our Favorite Hiking Spots Near Boulder, Colorado
Our Favorite Hiking Spots Near Boulder, Colorado (Trust us, We’re Locals) Boulder, Colorado is a hiker’s paradise. With the Flatirons, foothills, and forests all within reach, it’s no wonder that outdoor enthusiasts flock to Boulder to enjoy the scenic trails. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging adventure, Boulder has a variety of hikes that cater to all skill levels. 1. Chautauqua Trail The Chautauqua Trail offers stunning views of the iconic Flatirons, and it’s a great introduction to Boulder’s hiking scene. As you ascend, the expansive views of Boulder below and the majestic rock formations ahead create a classic Boulder hiking experience. How to Get There: The trailhead is located at Chautauqua Park, just a short drive from downtown Boulder. There is parking available, though it fills up quickly on weekends. Dog-Friendly: Yes, but dogs must be kept on a leash. Tips Difficulty: Moderate. While it’s a shorter hike (around 3.6 miles round trip), the elevation gain can be challenging for beginners. Nearby Amenities: There’s a café and restrooms at the Chautauqua Park trailhead. 2. Royal Arch Trail This hike takes you through a forested area and eventually leads to the Royal Arch, a massive rock formation that frames a stunning view of the plains below. The last section is steep and rocky but well worth the effort for the view. How to Get There: Begin at the Chautauqua Trailhead and follow the signs to the Royal Arch. Dog-Friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed but must be leashed. Tips: Difficulty: Difficult. The trail is steep and rocky, especially in the last mile, so it’s best suited for experienced hikers. Nearby Amenities: Restrooms and picnic areas are available at the Chautauqua trailhead. 3. Mount Sanitas Trail Mount Sanitas is one of the best hikes near Boulder for those looking for a short but steep challenge. The trail offers sweeping views of Boulder and the Front Range. The descent can be tough, but the panoramic views make the effort worth it. How to Get There: The trailhead is just a few minutes from downtown Boulder, with parking along Mapleton Avenue. Dog-Friendly: Yes, on leash. Tips: Difficulty: Difficult. This 3.3-mile trail is steep and rocky, so be prepared for a workout. Nearby Amenities: Limited parking, so arrive early. 4. Bear Peak via Fern Canyon Bear Peak is one of the highest points in Boulder, offering breathtaking views of the entire Front Range and Continental Divide. The climb through Fern Canyon is challenging but rewarding. How to Get There: Start at the South Mesa Trailhead and follow signs for Bear Peak. Dog-Friendly: Yes, but dogs must be leashed. Tips: Difficulty: Strenuous. This hike is steep and requires good fitness, but the 7.4-mile round trip is worth it for the views. Nearby Amenities: Restrooms are available at the trailhead. 5. Flatirons Vista Trail Flatirons Vista Trail offers wide-open views of the Flatirons and prairie. It’s a relatively easy hike with rolling hills and is perfect for a laid-back afternoon. How to Get There: The trailhead is located just off Highway 93, a few miles south of Boulder. Dog-Friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed on a leash. Tips Difficulty: Easy to moderate. Great for all skill levels and families. Nearby Amenities: Picnic tables and restrooms at the trailhead. 6. Green Mountain West Ridge A moderate to strenuous hike with spectacular views at the summit of Green Mountain, including a panoramic view of Boulder and the Indian Peaks. How to Get There: Start at the West Ridge Trailhead, located off Flagstaff Road. Dog-Friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed on a leash. Tips Difficulty: Moderate to difficult. Some rocky sections, but manageable for most hikers. Nearby Amenities: Restrooms at the trailhead. 7. Flagstaff Mountain via Gregory Canyon This trail offers both forested canyon sections and sweeping views from Flagstaff Mountain. The summit rewards you with a beautiful overlook of the city and surrounding mountains. How to Get There: Start at the Gregory Canyon Trailhead, located just off Flagstaff Road. Dog-Friendly: Yes, leashed dogs are welcome. Tips: Difficulty: Moderate. The trail has some steep sections but is manageable for most hikers. Nearby Amenities: Parking can be tight, so come early. 8. Sunshine Canyon Trail This peaceful, lesser-known trail offers a mix of shady forests and open meadows. It’s great for those looking to avoid the crowds while enjoying beautiful views of Boulder. How to Get There: Start at the Centennial Trailhead, located near Sunshine Canyon Drive. Dog-Friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed on a leash. Tips: Difficulty: Moderate. The incline is steady but not too steep. Nearby Amenities: No restrooms at the trailhead, so plan accordingly. 9. Enchanted Mesa Trail A shorter hike through a peaceful forest, this trail is great for a leisurely walk with beautiful views of the Flatirons. How to Get There: Park at Chautauqua Park and take the Enchanted Mesa Trail from the main trailhead. Dog-Friendly: Yes, dogs are welcome on a leash. Tips: Difficulty: Easy to moderate. Suitable for families and casual hikers. Nearby Amenities: Restrooms available at Chautauqua Park. 10. South Boulder Peak via Shadow Canyon South Boulder Peak is the highest summit in the Boulder area, and the climb through Shadow Canyon is steep but offers stunning views at the top. How to Get There: Park at the South Mesa Trailhead and follow signs for South Boulder Peak. Dog-Friendly: Yes, but dogs must be leashed. Tips Difficulty: Strenuous. The trail is steep and rocky in parts. Nearby Amenities: Restrooms at the trailhead. 11. Red Rocks Trail This short hike takes you to Boulder’s own Red Rocks, offering stunning red rock formations and great views of the city. How to Get There: The trailhead is located at Settler’s Park, close to downtown Boulder. Dog-Friendly: Leashed dogs are welcome. Tips Difficulty: Easy to moderate. Great for a quick hike with amazing views. Nearby Amenities: Restrooms at Settler’s Park. 12. Marshall Mesa Trail Marshall Mesa offers wide-open views and rolling hills, perfect for a peaceful
Van Build Essentials You Won’t Regret Buying
Living the van life offers freedom and flexibility, allowing you to explore new places while maintaining a mobile lifestyle. To make your van life experience comfortable and efficient, having the right essentials is crucial. Our team at Geotrek has insights into the must-have items for successful van living. Essential Items for Van Life Sleeping Setup A good sleeping setup is important for restful nights. Make sure you have: A high-quality mattress or sleeping pad (we include a mattress with each Geotrek build) A warm blanket for those chilly nights (check out the Rumpl Puffy Blanket. You’ll take us later) A set of window covers for all of the windows and vents (like the Maxxair Fan) in your van. VanEssential’s 4-season window covers ensure comfort year-round, keeping you cozy in winter and cool in summer. They double as blackout curtains, offering total darkness for undisturbed sleep-ins or privacy for late-night van parties. Enjoy every moment, knowing your space is both insulated and discreetly shielded! Kitchen Equipment When cooking in your van, having compact and efficient kitchen equipment is essential. We suggest keeping a second set of cooking utensils in your van to ensure you’re always ready to hit the road without leaving anything behind. Here are a few must-haves items we’ve discovered along the journey: A portable stove or built-in cooktop (our camper vans include a built-in or portable cooktop). For a propane cooking outside option, checkout the Coleman 2-Burner Propane Camping Stove. A small refrigerator or cooler to keep your food fresh (yes, we also include a dorm-style refrigerator to each of our van builds). Vanlife essential kitchen tools include a cutting board, knives, pots, pans, and utensils. We would make recommendations here, but I am sure you already have your favorites! Collapsible and nesting items save space and keep your kitchen organized. Oil and basic spices on deck Water System If you’re planning to be off-grid, you’ll want a way to have enough water at all times and an easy way to refill. Geotrek offers both. Include a freshwater tank and a greywater tank to manage your water supply and waste. You’ll need a water pump to ensure a steady flow of water. Include a filtration system to improve water quality and ensure safe drinking water. Portable water bottles and portable water filters (a Brita Filter will fit into the start dorm refrigerators). Check out our Buyer’s Guide Video to learn more about the water systems that Geotrek offers (Geotrek Buyer’s Guide – Water System – Custom Camper Vans) Storage Solutions We don’t have to explain to you the importance of storage in your van. Overhead and under-bed storage are great ways to use vertical space. Consider using multi-functional furniture that combines storage with seating or sleeping areas. Many van lifers also love: Mesh storage areas with easy access (See the RV Cargo Mesh Net that can be drilled into your cabinets or walls) Drawer and cabinet storage dividers to keep things organized Seatback organizers with multiple compartments (VanEssential as multiple different foldable soft-storage options. Check out the Under Seat Floor Storage or the Universal Back of Seat Storage Organizer) Climate Control Managing the temperature inside your van is essential for comfort. Ventilation fans help regulate airflow and prevent condensation. If a MaxxAir roof vent fan is not installed, small desk heaters can also help move air in your van. If you do not have a heater in your van installed, portable heaters provide additional temperature control. Insulate your van’s walls, ceiling, and floor to improve temperature regulation and energy efficiency. VanEssential’s 4-season window covers can help with temperature regulation, as well. Safety and Security Safety and security are top priorities, and life on the road doesn’t have to compromise them. Make sure your van is equipped with: Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors (First Alert Smoke and CO Detector) A fire extinguisher (8-in-1 FIre Extinguisher with Wall Mount) Reliable locks An alarm system or GPS tracker for added security (Bouncie GPS Car Tracker) A first aid kit and emergency supplies (Protect Life First Aid Kit) Bathroom Setup A basic bathroom setup is a plus, but most van lifers know how hard they are to come by. Some of our top essentials include: Portable toilets, composting toilets, or camp toilets. We install and love both the SeaFlo 5.3 Gallon Portable Toilet and the Boxio Composting Toilet. A portable shower or solar shower bag (5-Gallon Solar Heating Shower Bag) Privacy curtains or pop-up tents (Kelty H2GO Privacy Curtain) Cleansing wipes (Hustle Clean Body Wipes) Shower shoes (I’m sure you have your favorites!) Tools and Maintenance Carrying essential tools and maintenance supplies helps you address issues on the road. Include a: Basic toolkit with wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, and duct tape (Household Tools Kit) Spare parts like fuses, hoses, and belts can be lifesavers Regular maintenance checks keep your van in good condition and prevent breakdowns. Multitools are always helpful and space-saving (Gerber 15-in-1 Multi Tool) Staying Connected If you’re wanting to stay connected while in your van, you definitely have the option to do so! Consider investing in a Starlink satellite internet system for reliable internet access. If you’re building a van with Geotrek, we can add a Starlink to your roof. Invest in a hot spot for your cell phone (if you aren’t doing Starlink). The Verizon MiFi is a great option for remote hot-spot creation. Screen extenders are a great way to get some extra screen inches without lugging around a desktop Outdoor Essentials Van life is all about embracing the great outdoors, so make sure to pack the right gear for your adventures. A portable campervan awning can provide shade and shelter. The Kelty Highroads Overlanding Shelter is great for a portable awning option. Camping lanterns make nighttime hours easier to navigate (especially nighttime bathroom trips). The BioLite Alpenglow Multicolor USB Lantern is a rechargeable, LED light that can change colors. Bring along a compact camping table and
Van Life Meals Guide
Living the van life is an incredible experience, but the logistics (unnecessarily) prevent many people from making the plunge. For instance, cooking in your van can seem daunting, but it really just requires some extra planning and thought. This is the fun part! A few initial tips: Because you’ll have limited storage for food, cooking tools, and water, consider planning your food plan out 5 days in advance (depending on your fridge capacity). Make a list before grocery shopping, and try to plan meals with overlapping ingredients. Stock up on essentials before getting in the middle of nowhere. You’d be surprised how much the little things cost at a mom-and-pop convenience store. Get used to not making everything from scratch. Meal Planning for Van Life Create a weekly meal plan that incorporates a variety of fresh, non-perishable, and frozen ingredients to ensure you have a balanced diet. When shopping for groceries, prioritize items with a long shelf life, such as canned goods, dried pasta, rice, and frozen vegetables. Invest in airtight containers to keep your food fresh and organized. Don’t forget to pack essential cooking utensils, spices, and condiments to make your meals flavorful and enjoyable. Consider your fridge size before buying anything. Maybe organic strawberries are on sale, but is it worth taking up half a shelf to fit them? Cooking in Your Van’s Kitchen One of the joys of van life is the opportunity to cook your own meals in your cozy van kitchen. Focus on simple, one-pot meals that are easy to prepare and clean up, such as stir-fries, soups, and casseroles. When cooking in your van, prioritize food safety by keeping your cooking area clean and using fresh ingredients. Always ensure your van is well-ventilated when using a propane stove or oven to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Meal Ideas for Van Life Eating well on the road doesn’t have to be complicated or boring. Here are some delicious and easy-to-prepare meal ideas for your van life adventures: Breakfast: Overnight oats with fresh fruit and nuts, breakfast burritos with scrambled eggs and vegetables, or a hearty breakfast sandwich with avocado and bacon. PRO TIP: If you’re cooking bacon in your van, open as many vents as possible and turn on your ceiling fan. You’ll thank us later! Lunch: A colorful salad with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, and a homemade vinaigrette, a wrap with hummus, falafel, and fresh veggies, or a comforting bowl of chili with whatever sort of bread is in the van. Dinner: A one-pot pasta dish with tomatoes, spinach, and sausage, a stir-fry with rice noodles and tofu, or a baked potato bar with a variety of toppings like chili, cheese, and broccoli. Snacks: Trail mix with dried fruit and nuts, fresh fruit and yogurt, or homemade granola bars. Notice that a lot of these meals have overlapping ingredients. Spinach can go in your breakfast wrap or your one-pot pasta. Fruit and nuts make a great breakfast combo and on-the-go snacks. Staying Hydrated on the Road Invest in a high-quality water filter or purifier to ensure you have access to clean drinking water, no matter where your adventures take you (Brita Filter). Carry a reusable water bottle with you at all times and make a habit of drinking water regularly throughout the day. Geotrek Vans: Your Partner in Van Life At Geotrek Vans, we understand the unique challenges and joys of living the van life, including the importance of eating well on the road. That’s why we design our custom campervan conversions with features that prioritize functionality and efficiency in the kitchen, such as ample storage space, a high-quality cooktop, and a spacious countertop for meal preparation. You have the ability to add on things like a water purification system, hot water heater, and/ or a rear exterior shower to meet your needs! Build Your Geotrek Van!
The Best Van Life Parking Apps for a Smooth Road Trip
For van lifers, the open road is our home, and every new destination brings a fresh sense of excitement. Yet, one of the biggest challenges we face is finding safe, reliable, and convenient parking spots for our homes on wheels. Thankfully, there are plenty of apps that can make this task easier. We’ve compiled the most helpful apps to help you find parking for your van or RV. 1. IOverlander Pricing: free What reviews are saying: Users appreciate the detailed information and community updates. However, some report that data accuracy can vary by region. IOverlander is a community-driven app that helps travelers find camping spots, dump stations, and other useful locations. Users contribute to the database by adding new spots and providing updates on existing ones. The app covers a wide range of locations worldwide, making it a reliable resource for those who travel extensively. It includes detailed information about each spot, such as amenities, fees, and GPS coordinates, which helps users make informed decisions about where to park their built out vans. IOverlander is easily the most used parking app in Van Life, which means you’ll have a ton of user reviews and knowledge bombs on the app, along with any info the directory system has. This is our go-to van life parking app. 2. The Dyrt Pricing: Free basic version. Pro version costs $35.99/year. Reviews: The Dyrt is praised for its comprehensive listings and user-friendly interface. Some users find the Pro version features particularly useful for remote areas. The Dyrt has extensive listings of campgrounds and RV parks. It includes user reviews, photos, and tips to help you find the perfect spot. The app is user-friendly, allowing users to search for campsites based on various criteria such as location, amenities, and user ratings. The Dyrt Pro version offers additional features, including offline access, discounts, and trip planning tools, which can be particularly useful for those traveling in remote areas without reliable internet access. 3. Sēkr Pricing: Free Reviews: Users enjoy the community aspect and the focus on unique camping experiences. Some mention that the app’s database is still growing. Sēkr connects travelers with campsites and unique outdoor experiences. It offers maps, campsite details, and community interaction. The app also provides information on nearby amenities such as restrooms, water sources, and hiking trails. Sēkr encourages community engagement, allowing users to share their experiences and tips, which enhances the overall user experience. 4. Campendium Pricing: Free basic version. Premium membership is $20/year. Reviews: Users appreciate the detailed reviews and cell signal information. The app is known for its reliable and user-generated content. Campendium is a huge directory of campgrounds, RV parks, and free camping spots. It includes user reviews, photos, and cell signal information, which is particularly useful for those who need to stay connected while on the road. Campendium’s detailed search filters help users find campsites that meet their specific needs, whether they’re looking for amenities, scenic views, or pet-friendly locations. 5. Allstays Pricing: The app costs $9.99. The website offers subscription options starting at $32/year. Reviews: Users find Allstays to be detailed and reliable. The one-time app purchase price is considered a good investment for frequent travelers. Allstays is a comprehensive database of campgrounds, RV parks, rest areas, and truck stops. It has useful info into alternative parking spaces such as Walmarts and casinos. It is available as a website and a mobile app. The app includes detailed information on each location, such as amenities, policies, and nearby attractions. Allstays is particularly useful for planning long road trips, as it helps users find convenient places to stop along their route. 6. Boondockers Welcome Pricing: $50/year. Reviews: Users love the hospitality and unique experiences. Some note the value of meeting new people and staying in safe, welcoming environments. Boondockers Welcome connects RVers with hosts offering free overnight parking on private property. It promotes a community-driven approach to finding parking, allowing travelers to stay with locals who provide safe and welcoming spots. This app not only offers a place to park but also an opportunity to meet new people and learn about local areas from residents. 7. StayFree Pricing: StayFree is free to use. Reviews: Users appreciate the offline maps and the community-driven content. The app is praised for its simplicity and effectiveness. StayFree helps van lifers find camping sites and parking spots. It includes features like offline maps and community reviews, which are useful for finding spots in remote areas. The app’s user interface is straightforward, making it easy to search for and save favorite locations. 8. Google Maps Pricing: Free Reviews: Users appreciate its versatility, comprehensive data, and reliability. Did you know you can find overnight parking on Google Maps? Use satellite view and street view to scout potential spots before pulling up. Check for nearby amenities and reviews from fellow van lifers. The trucking community uses Google maps to find rest areas, parking lots, and other suitable spots for overnight parking. Its comprehensive data and real-time updates make it a valuable resource for van lifers! 9. Freecampsites.Net Pricing: Free Reviews: Users find it invaluable for budget-friendly camping. The community contributions help ensure the accuracy of listings. Freecampsites.Net is a database of free camping spots across North America. It includes user reviews and tips, helping travelers find budget-friendly places to stay. The website’s simple design makes it easy to search for campsites based on location and amenities. 10. Parkopedia Pricing: Free basic version. Premium features available with a subscription. Reviews: Users appreciate the extensive coverage and detailed information. Some find the premium features worth the cost for frequent urban parking. Parkopedia is a parking space finder, including overnight options. It covers urban areas, making it useful for city stays. The app includes detailed information on parking fees, restrictions, and hours of operation, helping users find suitable parking options quickly. It also allows you to search by hour and reserve ahead of time. 11. SpotAngels Pricing: Free Reviews: