Abdinz

For years, I’ve dreamed of living on the road. The idea of chasing freedom, waking up to new horizons, and embracing the unknown has always been a pull I couldn’t ignore. And now, after months of research, saving, and planning, I’ve finally taken the first step toward making that dream a reality: I bought a mini van.

It’s a solid, no-nonsense vehicle—nothing flashy, but it gets the job done. As I stood in the dealership parking lot, keys in hand, I felt a mix of excitement and determination. This van isn’t just a mode of transportation; it’s the foundation of my new life. It’s the tool that’s going to help me build something real, something that’s entirely mine.

Why a Mini Van?

Let’s cut to the chase: why a mini van? For me, it came down to practicality. I needed something that could handle city streets and backcountry roads without guzzling gas or drawing too much attention. A mini van is compact, efficient, and, with the right modifications, can be transformed into a self-contained camper van that meets the standards for freedom camping.

Sure, it’s not the most glamorous choice, but that’s part of the appeal. It’s understated, reliable, and proof that you don’t need a massive rig to live the van life. Sometimes, less really is more.

The Plan: Converting the Van Step by Step

Now that I’ve got the van, the real work begins. Over the next 4-5 weeks, I’ll be converting it into a fully functional camper van. This isn’t going to be some Instagram-perfect build—it’s going to be practical, functional, and built to last. Here’s the game plan:

1. Foldable Double Bed with Drawers: Space is tight, so I’m designing a foldable bed that doubles as storage. During the day, it’ll tuck away to free up room, and at night, it’ll be a solid place to crash.
2. Sink and Water System: I’ll be installing a small sink with a freshwater tank for basic needs and a grey water tank to handle wastewater. It’s not the most exciting part of the build, but it’s essential for self-contained living.
3. Toilet: Let’s be real—no one wants to talk about this, but a portable toilet is a necessity for freedom camping. It’s not glamorous, but it’s non-negotiable.
4. Rubbish Bin with a Lid: Keeping things clean and organized is key in a small space, so a sturdy rubbish bin with a secure lid is a must.
5. Certification for Freedom Camping: Once the build is done, I’ll need to get the van certified to meet specific standards for freedom camping. This’ll allow me to park and camp legally in designated areas, giving me the freedom to explore without hassle.

The Emotional Rollercoaster

I won’t lie—this whole process is equal parts exciting and intimidating. There’s a lot to figure out, and I know there’ll be moments where I question what the hell I’ve gotten myself into. What if I screw up the measurements for the bed? What if the plumbing leaks? What if I realize van life isn’t all it’s cracked up to be?

But here’s the thing: I’m ready for whatever comes my way. This isn’t just about building a van; it’s about building a new way of living. It’s about taking control, learning as I go, and embracing the challenges head-on.

What’s Next?

Over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing updates on the build—the wins, the mistakes, and everything in between. I’ll document each step, from cutting the first piece of plywood to getting the final certification. And once the van is ready, I’ll hit the road, chasing sunsets, exploring new places, and living life on my own terms.

This is just the beginning of my van life journey, and I’m stoked to see where it takes me. If you’ve ever thought about hitting the road, I hope this inspires you to take that first step. Because sometimes, all it takes is a little grit—and a mini van—to change your life.