If your idea of the perfect road trip is chasing the sunset down a deserted dirt road, or ticking off as many national parks from the bucket list as you can, van life travel may be the way to go. Traveling the United States by van is the perfect way to explore remote destinations and off-the-beaten-path attractions, while never having to deal with the hassle of finding a hotel at the end of the day. If you’re on a budget or prefer a simpler form of travel, there are several reasons you may want to opt for a minivan camper over a fully-decked out camper van, motorhome, or RV.

Minivan parked with view

Travel at Your Own Pace

One of the best things about traveling in a minivan camper is the ability to go wherever you want, whenever you want, and be able to change plans on a whim. Freedom really is found on the open road, and a minivan camper will let you explore at your own pace. Minivan campers are great for exploring the scenic byways, state parks, and back roads between popular destinations like Las Vegas to San Francisco and Los Angeles to Big Sur, California. They’re also perfect for rock climbing, surfing, or other outdoor adventure-focused trips.

Simplify Your Road Trip

Sure, a decked out campervan looks great on Instagram. But traveling in a minivan camper is simpler, more cost-effective, and for many, just as comfortable. If all you need is a place to sleep, you can just lay down the seats in the back of the van and lay out your sleeping pad and pillow. If you prefer tent camping, you can do that too, but it’s comforting to know you always have the option to sleep in the back of the car in bad weather or if you don’t feel like setting up a tent in the dark.

Save Money on Hotel Rooms and Gas

When you travel in a minivan camper, you’ll not only save on the high cost of hotels, but you’ll also save on fuel costs compared to a full-sized campervan or RV rental. With a minivan camper, you can also avoid paying campsite fees since you can sleep for free on public lands, at trailheads, and even Walmart parking lots. A minivan camper is also less conspicuous than a full-sized campervan, so pulling off a few nights of stealth camping will be far easier.

With a minivan camper rental, you can also rent a stove and kitchen supplies to help you save money on food and dining out. With all the money you’re saving on hotel rooms, gas, and food, you easily extend your travel time, hit up more destinations, or splurge on entertainment, outdoor adventures, or the occasional meal out.

Minivan Campers Are Easier to Drive

A large van or RV can be more challenging to drive than a car, especially your first time, but a minivan camper isn’t too different than driving a full-sized car. Minivan campers also have no problem fitting into a regular parking space, so they are a great idea if you plan on exploring urban areas in addition to the wide-open spaces of national parks.

So head on over and book a minivan camper with Travellers Autobarn USA and get planning your road trip.  We have pick up and drop off locations in three major cities, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.

You may also enjoy our Van Life Guide for Beginners: Traveling Around the United States in a Campervan or Campervan vs Motorhome/RV – what the difference?

About the Author

Bastian Graf

Bastian is the Sales & Marketing Manager here at Travellers Autobarn. He holds a Master of Commerce in Marketing and International Business Management, and 20+ years experience in campervan hire, road trips and travel.

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