Budget-Friendly Van Life Hacks

Van life doesn’t have to empty your wallet faster than your fuel tank on an outback road trip. The beauty of life on the road is its simplicity—and with the right hacks, you can keep your setup functional, stylish, and wallet-friendly. Here are some clever ways to stretch your dollar without sacrificing comfort or adventure.

1. DIY Alternatives to Expensive Gear

Why pay top dollar when a bit of creativity and elbow grease can get the job done?

DIY Ideas for Your Van

  • DIY Curtains: Instead of buying pricey blackout curtains, grab some blackout fabric and velcro strips. Cut, stick, and voilà, instant privacy and light control.
  • Homemade Storage Solutions: Upcycle old crates, bins, or boxes into stackable storage units. Sand and paint them for a polished look.
  • Portable Shower: Use a solar shower bag or repurpose a garden sprayer for a DIY camping shower. Add a pop-up tent for extra privacy.
  • Foldable Table Hack: Build your own lightweight, foldable table with plywood and collapsible legs from a hardware store.

Pro Tip: Hit up YouTube for tutorials, there’s a DIY guide for just about everything, from building a bed frame to creating magnetic spice racks.

2. Tips for Finding Second-Hand or Budget Essentials

Second-hand doesn’t mean second-rate. Pre-loved gear can save you heaps and still get the job done.

Where to Find Deals

  • Facebook Marketplace: A goldmine for everything from portable stoves to solar panels.
  • Local Garage Sales: Perfect for picking up kitchenware, camping gear, or random van accessories.
  • Op Shops (Thrift Stores): Great for cheap bedding, cookware, and even small furniture items.
  • Online Forums and Groups: Join van life or camping communities where people often sell used gear at bargain prices.

What to Look For Second-Hand

  • Solar panels or portable power stations.
  • Outdoor furniture like camping chairs and tables.
  • Storage bins, baskets, or crates.
  • Cooking gear like cast iron pans or camp stoves.

Pro Tip: Inspect second-hand gear carefully. For electrical items, check that they’re in working order, and for bedding or furniture, ensure there’s no damage or wear that compromises safety.

3. Creative Hacks for Saving Space and Money

Living in a small space means getting creative. These hacks save room and cash.

Smart Space-Saving Ideas

  • Collapsible Everything: Look for collapsible bowls, buckets, and cookware. They pack flat and cost less than fancy compact gear.
  • Dual-Purpose Furniture: Use crates that double as seating or build a bed frame with storage underneath.
  • Hanging Organisers: Pick up over-the-door shoe organisers from discount stores. They’re perfect for toiletries, snacks, or cables.
  • Magnetic Strips: Secure knives, tools, or spices to the wall to free up drawer space.

Money-Saving Tips

  • Refill Instead of Replace: Refill gas bottles, water tanks, and even condiments instead of buying new ones.
  • DIY Cleaning Supplies: Make your own eco-friendly cleaning products with vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils.
  • Batch Cooking: Cook meals in bulk to save on gas and reduce food waste.

Pro Tip: Think outside the box. A $5 storage bin might make a great sink, and an old bookshelf could be repurposed into van shelving.

4. Cut Costs on the Road

The cost of living on the road can add up if you’re not careful. Here’s how to keep spending in check.

Fuel

  • Use apps like Fuel Map Australia to find the cheapest petrol stations.
  • Drive slower to improve fuel efficiency. It’s better for your wallet and the planet.

Campsites

  • Seek out free campsites using apps like WikiCamps or iOverlander.
  • Stay at showgrounds or council-run sites—they’re usually cheaper than caravan parks.

Food

  • Shop at local markets for fresh produce—cheaper and tastier than supermarket fare.
  • Stock up on staples like rice, pasta, and canned goods in bulk.

Repairs

  • Learn basic DIY fixes to avoid mechanic fees for minor issues.

Pro Tip: Track your expenses weekly to spot where you can cut back. A little awareness goes a long way.

Living the van life doesn’t mean you need to spend big to live big. With a bit of ingenuity, some savvy shopping, and a DIY spirit, you can build a budget-friendly setup that still feels like home. The key? Prioritise functionality over flash and always be open to reusing or repurposing.

Got your own budget hacks? I’m always looking for ways to save a few bucks while keeping the van rolling.