Overview of 12 Budget-Friendly Campervan Essentials
This video from Van Life Theory presents a practical rundown of 12 affordable accessories that Alesha and Jarryd have found essential during their years travelling in a campervan across Australia. Rather than focusing on expensive custom builds or high-end gear, the couple showcase everyday items sourced from department stores and hardware retailers like Bunnings that solve real problems of van living—organisation, comfort, cleanliness, and safety while on the road.
The advice is grounded in genuine experience; these aren't theoretical suggestions but items they use daily in their Sprinter van named Marley. Whether you're just starting your van life journey or already months into full-time travel, the video targets anyone looking for practical, budget-conscious ways to make their campervan more liveable without breaking the bank.
Key Moments
Key Accessories Highlighted in This Guide
- Storage boxes in various shapes and sizes, including soft-sided options, for maximising organisation in tight spaces
- Quick-dry towels that hang dry in minutes rather than fluffy towels that retain moisture and odours
- Mosquito nets secured with velcro to doors (crucial for Australian travel, costing around $20 AUD)
- Blackout curtains with magnets that stick to metal surfaces, eliminating all interior light for sleep and stealth camping
- Command hooks that allow hanging without drilling into walls, protecting hidden wiring and pipes
- Bungee cords for securing chairs, tripods, books, and tarps during travel
Practical Details Before You Equip Your Van
- Most items are inexpensive and widely available from standard retailers, making this budget-friendly for new van dwellers
- Non-slip mats come in large rolls that you can cut to your specific needs and fit
- Entrance mats significantly reduce dirt and debris entering the van and can be secured with velcro
- Cabinet locks prevent drawers and cupboards from flying open during driving, not for security purposes
- Baby wipes (eco-friendly, compostable varieties recommended) serve as a water-saving alternative when showers aren't possible
- A flexible broom head that moves allows you to sweep into tight gaps under cupboards and between fixtures
- Blackout curtains with magnets attach to your van's metal door and can be folded away when not needed
Common Questions About Van Life Accessories
Why are storage boxes so important in a campervan?
In a small space, organisation is everything. The video emphasises that multiple storage boxes—rectangular, square, and soft-sided—allow you to compartmentalise your belongings and maximise every available space, including under sinks and in corners. This prevents items from shifting during driving and makes daily living more manageable.
Are quick-dry towels really necessary, or will regular towels work?
According to the video, quick-dry towels are a game-changer for van life. Regular fluffy towels take forever to dry in a confined space and can develop odours in the humid environment. Quick-dry towels hang dry in about 10 minutes and don't smell, making them practical for the constant dampness of caravan living.
What's the best way to deal with insects while van camping?
The video recommends a magnetic or velcro-secured mosquito net attached to your door, particularly essential in Australia near rivers and waterways where insects are prolific. A simple $20 net from a hardware store snaps together when you leave the van and folds away compactly when not needed.
Can I install blackout curtains without damaging my van?
Yes—blackout curtains with magnets simply stick to your metal door and side panels, requiring no drilling or permanent installation. They can be removed instantly without leaving marks, and they're extremely effective for sleeping during daylight and for stealth camping in populated areas.
Do I really need cabinet locks in a campervan?
The video makes clear that cabinet locks serve a functional purpose: preventing drawers and cupboards from popping open during turns and braking while driving. Though not essential for security, they save you from items spilling out and creating mess during travel.
What to Buy First
Do I need all 12 items at once?
Not necessarily. Prioritise based on your immediate pain points—if you're struggling with organisation, start with storage boxes; if dust and dirt are a problem, add entrance mats and a broom. The beauty of these accessories is their affordability, so you can add them gradually as you identify what your van life actually needs.
