Reviews
Couple shares 9 things about living in a camper van that are not so flowery
Living in "close quarters" hasn't dampened their chemistry a bit.
Michael Dabu
05.08.24

Have you ever fantasized about ditching the daily grind for the free-wheeling, sun-soaked bliss of camper van life?

Well, Tanya and Dave from ‘Turn It Up World’ are here to pump the brakes on that dream just a bit with some real talk about RV life.

They’ve been navigating the highways and byways in their trusty camper van, “Desert Snow,” and they’ve got some truths to spill that social media doesn’t always show.

YouTube Screenshot - LetsTurnItUpWorld
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YouTube Screenshot - LetsTurnItUpWorld

First up on our reality check—parking.

Picture rolling into a beautiful vista, ready to set up camp under the stars, only to find a big ol’ “No Overnight Parking” sign staring back at you.

Turns out, you can’t just park anywhere.

Many spots have restrictions, and free-wheeling might just lead you to a ticket or a tow.

YouTube Screenshot - LetsTurnItUpWorld
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YouTube Screenshot - LetsTurnItUpWorld

Next, let’s debunk those idyllic campsite expectations.

You know those perfectly secluded spots you see on Instagram?

Well, they’re about as common as finding a clean public restroom on a road trip.

The truth is, a lot of campsites are as packed as a summer music festival, and some newer sites look more like a parking lot than a patch of paradise.

YouTube Screenshot - LetsTurnItUpWorld
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YouTube Screenshot - LetsTurnItUpWorld

Now, about the weather—RV life isn’t all sunrises and sunsets.

Sometimes it’s hailstorms that sound like they’re trying to drum solo on your roof.

You might find yourself wondering if your van can double as a boat or an igloo.

Yes, weather challenges are a real thing, and they can go from zero to “Why did we do this?” pretty fast.

YouTube Screenshot - LetsTurnItUpWorld
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YouTube Screenshot - LetsTurnItUpWorld

Bathroom complications, anyone?

In smaller camper vans, the bathroom facilities can be… let’s just say, less than ideal.

Ever tried to find a public restroom at 3 a.m.?

It’s not fun.

Tanya and Dave recommend portable options but prepare for a less-than-luxurious experience.

YouTube Screenshot - LetsTurnItUpWorld
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YouTube Screenshot - LetsTurnItUpWorld

And oh, the critters you’ll meet!

Living in a camper van means getting up close and personal with nature, and not just the cute, Instagrammable kind.

We’re talking spiders that invite themselves in and don’t want to leave.

It’s like they’re part of a creepy crawly timeshare.

YouTube Screenshot - LetsTurnItUpWorld
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YouTube Screenshot - LetsTurnItUpWorld

Shower limitations are up next.

If you think van life means enjoying endless open-air showers in stunning locales, think again.

Water is a precious commodity on the road, and those showers are more about speed and efficiency than luxurious lathering.

YouTube Screenshot - LetsTurnItUpWorld
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YouTube Screenshot - LetsTurnItUpWorld

Dealing with extreme temperatures is another hurdle.

That adorable van might feel like an oven on wheels or a rolling icebox, depending on the season.

Insulation?

More like a suggestion, really.

So, unless you’re a penguin or a cactus, prepare to battle the elements a bit.

YouTube Screenshot - LetsTurnItUpWorld
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - LetsTurnItUpWorld

And finally, let’s talk dough—because van life isn’t the cheap escape it’s often cracked up to be.

Maintenance costs? They can drive your budget straight off a cliff.

And those scenic campgrounds? They charge scenic prices, too.

Find out what this couple can teach you about the reality of RV living below!

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