There’s nothing quite like the freedom of a van to hit the road, with no fixed itinerary and landscapes that change by the hour. Today, we’re handing the mic to Maxime, 34, a road trip and vanlife enthusiast for over 5 years. He shares what got him hooked on life on the road — and why he can’t imagine travelling any other way.
“That first trip changed everything”
“It all started in the summer of 2020. I really needed to get away and disconnect from the daily grind. I rented a small campervan and headed for the Alps, without much of a plan... And that was it. Waking up by a lake, cooking outside, following random roads — it was exactly what I needed.”
Since that first trip, Maxime has travelled through France, Spain, Scotland, and even parts of Norway. Always by van, always at his own pace.
“You live with less, but you live better”
“Vanlife brings you back to the essentials. You take your time, learn to manage water and power, cook simple meals… And most importantly, you live outdoors. The real luxury isn’t space — it’s the freedom to change your view every day.”
For Maxime, vanlife isn’t just a way to travel — it’s a way of life. Every drive is a new adventure, and every stop becomes a temporary little home.
His favourite spots
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The Cévennes (France): winding roads and secret swim spots
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The west coast of Portugal: sunsets, waves, and a laid-back vibe
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The Scottish Highlands: for wild, mystical camping spots
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The fjords of Norway: “Absolutely incredible — it feels like you have the world to yourself”
His tips for beginners
“You don’t need a fancy van. A good mattress, a camping stove, a cooler — that’s enough to get started. The most important thing is the spirit of adventure.”
Maxime also recommends respecting nature, checking local parking and camping rules, and staying flexible: the best memories are often the ones you didn’t plan for.
Feeling inspired?
Vanlife is drawing more and more travellers looking for freedom, simplicity, and a deep connection with nature. If you’re feeling the call of the open road, just like Maxime…
👉 Check out our selection of outdoor essentials on backpacker-life.com: solar showers, compact mattresses, portable kitchen kits — everything you need to make every stop feel like home.