Where freedom meets the open road and life slows down
The open road has never been more appealing. With remote work on the rise and a growing thirst for minimalist living, van life has transformed from a subculture into a global movement. But while the dream of living on the road is universal, not every country makes it easy or enjoyable.
So where can you park under the stars, wake up to mountain views and still find good Wi-Fi and a friendly community? This guide takes you through the best countries for van life destinations that offer natural beauty, affordability, van-friendly infrastructure and the kind of soul-soothing freedom only the road can bring.
1. New Zealand
New Zealand is a vanlifer’s paradise. With its compact size, breathtaking landscapes and freedom camping laws, you can drive from glacier-capped peaks to golden beaches, all in a single week. Most towns are equipped with dump stations, free campgrounds and public restrooms. Whether you’re exploring the volcanic North Island or the fjord-filled South, the country is tailor-made for mobile living
🧡 Don’t miss: Lake Pukaki at sunrise with views of Mount Cook from your van window
2.Canada
Why it works for van life:
Canada is vast, wild and endlessly road-tripable. National parks like Banff, Jasper and Yoho offer scenic drives, pristine lakes and plenty of spots to camp overnight. The summer months are ideal for van life, especially in the western provinces. Fuel is relatively affordable and the van life community is growing fast in places like British Columbia.
🧡 Don’t miss: The Icefields Parkway, arguably one of the most beautiful drives in the world
3. Portugal
One of the best van life destinations in Europe, Portugal offers warm weather, a laid-back vibe and incredible Atlantic coastal views. Surf towns like Ericeira and Sagres are full of campervans and inland you’ll find vineyards, cork forests and sleepy villages. It’s also one of the more affordable Western European countries
🧡 Don’t miss: Wild camping near the cliffs of Costa Vicentina National Park
4. Chile
Stretching from the driest desert on Earth to icy Patagonia, Chile is ideal for long-term road travel. It offers incredible diversity – volcanoes, salt flats, fjords and lakes. The Carretera Austral is a legendary van life route that winds through remote southern Patagonia with jaw-dropping scenery
🧡 Don’t miss: Wild camping near General Carrera Lake surrounded by turquoise glacial waters
5.Iceland
Despite its small size, Iceland packs in waterfalls, volcanoes, glaciers and geothermal hot springs around nearly every corner. The Ring Road circles the island and can be done in a week, but you’ll want more time to soak it all in. Campsites are well-organized, roads are good and natural wonders are everywhere.
🧡 Don’t miss: Watching the Northern Lights from a hot spring near your campervan
6. Argentina
Argentina is a dream for digital nomad road trips, especially through the Andes and Patagonia. It’s affordable, friendly and packed with natural wonders like Perito Moreno Glacier, Fitz Roy and the Seven Lakes Route. Gas is cheaper than in most countries and the landscapes are as untamed as the spirit of van life itself
🧡 Don’t miss: The legendary Ruta 40 road trip that stretches along the Andes
7. Norway
If you’re looking for fjords, mountains and some of the most dramatic scenery in Europe, Norway is it. The country allows wild camping by law (the “right to roam”) and has excellent road infrastructure. While it’s pricier than other van life spots, the reward is solitude in nature at its purest
🧡 Don’t miss: Driving the Atlantic Ocean Road with the sea crashing on both sides
8. Thailand
A surprising yet growing van life destination in Asia, Thailand offers beachside parking, jungle drives and a welcoming culture. While van life infrastructure is still developing, it’s possible to find camp-friendly areas, especially near national parks and coastal towns. The cost of living is low and the food is unbeatable
🧡 Don’t miss: Parking your van near Ao Nang for sunrise yoga and fresh coconut breakfasts
Tips for Living on the Road
If you’re planning to live out of a van full-time or part-time, here are a few must-haves:
- 🔌 Power: Invest in a solar panel setup or reliable battery
- 🌐 Connectivity: SIM cards or portable Wi-Fi hotspots are a must
- 🚿 Hygiene: Map out gyms, hot springs, or campgrounds for regular showers
- 🧼 Minimalism: Only pack what you need, you’ll thank yourself later
- 🧭 Community: Use apps like Park4Night, iOverlander, or VanlifeLocation to find safe spots
Final Thoughts
Van life isn’t just about travel, it’s about redefining freedom. Whether you’re waking up beside a Norwegian fjord, cruising down Argentina’s Ruta 40, or brewing coffee by a Patagonian lake, the best countries for van life offer more than scenery. They offer peace, space and the thrill of choosing a new backyard every day.
So pack your life into four wheels, follow the sun and let the road lead the way.
This is your invitation to live fully, slowly and blissfully, on your own terms.
