Thinking about buying a van? Whether you’re dreaming of dirt roads or just hoping for a weekend escape, this list will help you avoid the “wish-I-knew-before” trap that catches so many first-timers.
These aren’t the flashy Instagram questions. These are the real ones — the ones our members wish they’d asked themselves before they handed over the cash.
1. Where do I actually want to go?
Beachfront caravan parks? National parks? Outback free camps? Your destination matters — it affects the clearance, power setup, and bathroom choices you’ll need.
2. Will I be free camping, staying in parks, or both?
Free camping means you’ll need power solutions, water storage, and waste management. Parks often have everything on tap — literally.
3. What’s my comfort level with driving and reversing?
Caravan? Motorhome? Campervan? Know your comfort zone before you end up sweating in a servo parking lot trying to reverse.
4. How much “stuff” do I really need?
The more gear you bring, the more storage (and weight) you need. Ask any seasoned traveller: you don’t need as much as you think.
5. Do I want to sleep inside or outside the vehicle?
Some setups are hybrid (vehicle + annex or tent). Others are fully self-contained. What feels safest and most comfortable for you?
6. How important is a toilet? A shower? Both? Neither?
The answer to this question will change the kind of van you need and the price tag. Be honest.
7. Can I sit up in bed?
Sounds silly — until you can’t. If you plan to read, stretch, or just sit up in the morning with a cuppa, you’ll want standing/sitting space. Alot of DIY “converted” vans do not have any standing room, they’re just normal delivery vans that someone has put a bed, kitchen etc in. Whilst it may seem appealing if you’ve found one because of the price… the common consensus is that after a while you’ll be paying in other ways with chiropractor sessions and massage. If you’re short and can stand up in a regular height van.. go for it.
8. Do I need to stand up inside?
Pop-tops can be cozy but crouching gets old fast. Think about your physical needs now and in 5–10 years.
9. What kind of weather will I be travelling in most?
Insulation, airflow, heating, and cooling will make or break your van experience. No one wants to cook in their sleep.
10. How will I charge my devices?
Do you need solar? Will you always be plugged in? Is a power bank enough? Don’t get caught out with a dead phone and no GPS.
11. How will I keep food cold?
Fridge? Esky? Waeco? Ice blocks? Think through your meals before you hit the road with nothing but crackers and regret.
12. What can I realistically tow with my current vehicle?
If you’re thinking about a caravan and keeping your current car, check its towing capacity before you fall in love with a big rig.
13. Do I want to be able to duck into town easily, or stay put?
A separate car (caravan setup) makes exploring easier. But driving a small campervan as your daily driver is simpler for solo setups.
14. Am I buying for now, or for the long-term dream?
If this is a one-year adventure, your needs are different than if you plan to live in it long-term or do the Big Lap.
15. Can I maintain it or get help easily on the road?
Some fancy European vans have beautiful layouts — and expensive, hard-to-source parts. Keep it simple if you’re going remote.
16. What layout feels natural to me?
Go to van shows. Sit inside rigs. Pretend to make a cuppa, use the loo, lie down. Your body will tell you what works.
17. How secure do I feel inside?
Solo travellers often prioritise solid locks, internal access from cab to rear, and a setup that doesn’t involve going outside at night.
18. How often will I actually move the van?
Parked long-term? You might want a basecamp style setup. Constantly on the go? You’ll need fast pack-down and light weight.
19. What are the hidden costs of this setup?
Think insurance, registration, servicing, fuel, parking, storage, and repairs. Budget for more than just the purchase price.
20. Does this setup support the life I want — or just look good online?
In the end, this question matters most. Buy for the journey you want to take — not the one trending on social media.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need all the answers today. But asking these 20 questions puts you ahead of the game — and sets you up to make confident, informed decisions.
Rolling Solo® is packed with women who’ve already walked this road (or towed it). If you’re just starting out, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.
