Van Life in the UK: A Relatable Alternative to Bricks and Mortar
No wonder you're considering a change in your living situation. The escalating rent and cost of living in the UK can definitely be frustrating. Many people have found solace in alternative lifestyles like van life UK, which offers a cheaper, more flexible way of living, especially in a place where living costs can be extraordinarily high.
Van life is a popular choice among those seeking a simpler life. It's a lifestyle that involves living in a converted van or camper. The arrangement allows for a more independent and mobile existence, making it an attractive option for many. As you might have noticed, quite a few people have found joy in this living in a campervan lifestyle. They seem to enjoy the freedom and the sense of adventure it brings.
Alternative Living Options
But it's worth considering other alternative living options too. For instance, the term “bargee” refers to those who live on barges in the UK. If you have some capital to invest, buying a boat can be a rewarding choice. My friends and I embraced this option nine years ago, and we have had a fantastic time on the Canal network. We have experienced both online and in-marin living, resulting in a socially fulfilling life with a supportive community.
We adopted this lifestyle for a change in our lives, and as a bonus, our daily expenses are much cheaper than traditional living arrangements. In fact, staying in one place can be much simpler with van life; you can hire a mooring in a marina or live on the canal, as long as you move progressively every 14 days. Although moving around can be a challenge, the benefits of this lifestyle are significant.
Personal Experiences
Personally, I find van life in the UK to be a wonderful experience. When I worked in security and needed access to power and facilities, I preferred to be on campsites. Wild camping was an option if it was necessary. However, with the benefits of working from home after a global pandemic, my situation changed dramatically.
In spring 2019, I experienced personal difficulties and had to leave my flat. My wife retained the flat while I moved into a campervan. Initially, I spent a short time in a room in a local pub but soon settled into a quaint campsite on the outskirts of London. Here, I enjoyed a gin and tonic and realized how great this life could be. Over the course of a year, I roamed around the London area in various campsites to commute to work, with Crystal Palace being my go-to spot. A cozy studio flat within Zone 2 would have cost over ￡600 a month, including all utilities. By comparison, the campervan was significantly cheaper and provided a more comfortable living space, especially when considering the high rent and utility costs of flats in the area.
The Covid-19 pandemic further solidified this new lifestyle for me. Seeking the ease and comfort of working from home, I relocated to the driveway of friends in Glasgow, Scotland. This move, however, led to nearly a whole year of enhanced van life. Scotland offered a beautiful setting that adjusted well to my new mode of living. In the winter of 2022, when forecasts suggested a return to the traditional office life, I made the decision to take a step back from the "rat race" and embrace my current van life. My current contract work allows me to sustain this lifestyle, as it is just me and my van now.
Lifestyle Adjustments and Considerations
As much as van life UK offers numerous benefits, it is crucial to note that it is not for everyone. The lack of space and the inability to own possessions without a practical use can be challenging for some. The lifestyle might not suit those who thrive on material possessions or desire a static living environment. Each person’s experience with van life is a unique journey, and you should carefully consider whether you are prepared to embrace this alternative lifestyle.