• 2024.07.23
  • Green light to van life
Van life is a thing now in Australia and, whether you are considering moving into a van permanently or using your recreational vehicle for some trips on the road, it is getting more and more popular to own one.
In Australia, the law does not provide direct guidance on the impossibility of settling permanently in a camper van or other mobile vehicle. As a result, living in a camper all year round is legal.

There are obligations that every citizen must observe to avoid unwanted consequences, despite the absence of specific prohibitions from this point of view. It is essential to keep in mind that, regardless of use, the camper remains a vehicle and the owner is required to respect the rules of the road, including periodic inspections and insurance coverage.
It is always advisable to keep in mind all the existing rules regarding where you can park your camper. It is important to consider all limitations and opportunities regarding parking your beloved four-wheeled vehicle for periods longer than 48 hours. Make sure you are aware of local regulations and restrictions that may be in place. Furthermore, it is advisable to find out about the parking areas dedicated to campers and any necessary fees or permits.
One of the most frequent questions that those who decide to live in a camper ask themselves is this: can I take up registered residence in my camper? The short answer is “no” but there are alternative solutions.
RV living offers a number of unique benefits and challenges. One of the main advantages is the freedom to move wherever you want and not be forced into particular rigid patterns. You can wake up to a breathtaking view every day and change scenery whenever you like.
However, there are also some disadvantages to consider. For example, limited space could be a problem for some people, as could the lack of certain comforts, the distance from loved ones or having to face unexpected situations while being able to rely solely on one's own strength and resources.
It is important to carefully consider these aspects before adopting an RV lifestyle.

Before you embrace RV life full-time, it's crucial to plan and establish a budget. Consider monthly expenses, such as fuel, insurance, maintenance costs and any camping costs.
You will also need to consider the costs of food, water, electricity and internet connection and therefore it is better to follow certain tips such as look for no-restricted parks or free rest areas to reduce lodging costs, buy groceries and cook your own meals to save on food costs and consider using alternative energy sources including solar panels to reduce energy costs.

Choosing the right camper for year-round living is essential to ensuring a comfortable and satisfying experience too.
It is essential to consider the dimensions and internal layout of the camper so to make sure there is enough space to move comfortably and that the layout meets your personal needs.
It is also key to evaluate the energy efficiency of the camper and look for a camper with good thermal insulation; opt to have an autonomous camper all year round by checking the heating and cooling system and make sure the camper is equipped with an effective heating system to deal with the cold temperatures of winter and a cooling system for the hot days of summer.
One shall consider the safety features of the camper by checking that the camper is equipped with security systems such as an anti-theft device to guarantee peace of mind.
Evaluating the storage capacity of the camper and making sure there is enough space to store all your belongings in an organized and accessible way will make your life easier too.

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  • Alberto Ferrando
  • Jobcivil engineer

Hello everyone! I’m originally from Italy and I moved to Sydney, Australia, in 2012 after getting a job as a civil engineer. I love walking my dog along the beach, surfing and taking photos. I used to have a travel blog because I’m passionate about traveling and I love writing about it too. Sydney is my home base now and I wish to share how amazing it is to live here. I love to spend time outdoors and I’m always well informed about local events because my girlfriend works in event management.

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