The first two weeks of sleeping in the van in the heart of the city have brought both freedom and challenge. One of the biggest issues has been the inflatable mattress — uncomfortable, deflates overnight, and needs refilling daily. I’m planning to replace it with a proper foam mattress (like a foldable IKEA one) to finally get some real rest.
The van is still almost untouched in terms of modifications, and it shows. Noise insulation and thermal comfort are lacking. Hot during the day, cold at night — and city sounds filter in easily. I’ll have to insulate the walls with materials like Armaflex or cork and add thick curtains. Since the van has no windows, I often feel disconnected from the outside. I’m planning to install two discreet Wi-Fi cameras (e.g. Reolink Argus 2 or Imou Bullet 2E) so I can check the surroundings before stepping out, without opening doors.
Space and Storage
Storage has also become a real issue. In such a tight space, I need better organisation. No more digging through plastic bins. I’ll reorganise with stackable boxes or drawer units (like IKEA SKUBB or VARIERA) to access essentials easily — food, clothes, tools — without losing time every morning.
Routine and Stealth Camping Tips
One thing I’ve realised: searching daily for a place to sleep is not sustainable. It’s much better to scout in advance and create a shortlist of potential overnight spots. That way, I just do a quick check in the evening and pick the best one. I usually follow the “arrive late, leave early” rule and avoid drawing attention. No chairs outside, no music, no hanging around. Park in quiet side streets, near other parked vehicles, in places where I blend in. Always keep the van clean, tidy, and ready to move.
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Use apps like Park4Night or Google Maps (Street View) to plan overnight locations
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Stick to well-lit, quiet areas, away from houses
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Avoid opening doors or windows that face the street
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Use blackout curtains and keep lights dim inside
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Never leave rubbish behind — be invisible
Hygiene, Energy and Daily Life
At the moment, I still rely on the apartment for showers and hygiene. But that’s something I want to change. Depending on it undermines the experience. Eventually, I want to install a portable shower, and use gym memberships or public facilities when needed. Cleaning and waste management are now part of my daily habits. I use eco soaps and always keep the interior organised.
For power, I’m using a portable 100W solar panel with a small battery station, which helps charge my phone and lights. I also charge devices while driving, and plan to add a fridge/cooler later on.
Eating Well in the Van
I’ve been eating out most nights — for now. But soon, I want to cook dinner in the van. I’ve got a Campingaz Bistro portable stove and basic cookware. I’ll focus on simple, one-pot meals: veggie rice, pasta, soups, wraps. I store dry goods in sealed boxes and use a small cooler with ice for fresh items.
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Essential gear: single-burner gas stove, small pots and pans, collapsible utensils
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Easy meals: omelettes, canned salads, pasta with sauce, oatmeal, fruit
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Food tips: plan ahead, store dry staples, clean up immediately
Final Thoughts
These first 15 days have been easier than expected — partly because I still have the apartment as backup. But as I transition to full independence, I know I’ll need to address insulation, organisation, comfort and routine. Even though it’s been challenging, it’s also incredibly freeing. I walk more, explore more, and waste less time scrolling on the sofa. Vanlife, even in the city, has been grounding — and I’m just getting started.
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