Working While Living in a Van: How This Adventurous Couple Makes It Work
- Roger Burnett
- Jan 29, 2022
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 27
By Roger Burnett – Vanlife Contributor
Van Life Meets Business Life: A Real Look at Working from the Road
Everyone loves a great collaboration—especially when it challenges the norm. That’s exactly what Melisa and I are doing with our van-life adventure, but we’re not just road-tripping for leisure. Instead, we’re running our businesses full-time from the road—testing whether two career-driven professionals can successfully work and live in a 60-square-foot van.
Can we co-work in a van?
Will the Wi-Fi hold up?
Can we make van life both productive and fulfilling?
We’re figuring it all out and sharing everything along the way.
Our Real Experience Working While Living in a Van
Let’s get real: working while living in a van isn’t as dreamy as influencers make it look—but it is possible with the right gear, mindset, and rhythm. Here’s how we’re staying connected, creative, and productive on the road.
Staying Connected on the Move
The Best Internet for Van Life
When you're working while living in a van, reliable Wi-Fi isn’t optional—it’s your lifeline. We’ve tested a ton of setups, and here’s what actually works:
✅ Starlink Roam – Satellite internet that works almost anywhere
✅ WeBoost Signal Boosters – To improve service in low-signal areas
✅ Multiple Hotspots – Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile backups for regional coverage
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t count on a single provider. Signal strength changes with geography, so always have a backup.
Van Life Remote Work Setup
A bed and a laptop might look romantic, but posture disagrees. Here’s what keeps us sane (and pain-free):
✅ Collapsible Desk + Ergonomic Chair – Creating a true workspace
✅ Portable Power Station – Keeps devices charged without draining the van battery
✅ Noise-Canceling Headphones – For calls, focus, and shared space peace💻 The Ultimate Mobile Office Setup
Work-Life Balance on the Road
We didn’t choose van life to stay glued to our laptops all day. Our schedule flexes to let us live too.
Our Daily Rhythm:
Morning Sprints – Deep focus work and calls
Midday Breaks – Hiking, exploring, or grabbing local eats
Evening Wrap-Ups – Final inbox checks and slow dinners
📍 Tip for Remote Workers: Park near trails or parks so you can log out and explore the second your workday ends.Sustainable Living, Even on Wheels
Part of working while living in a van means being mindful of our impact—on the planet and on our power bill.
Our Eco Essentials:
✅ Organic cleaners – Grey tank and earth-friendly
✅ Refillable water filters – No bottled water required
✅ Compact appliances – Lower energy draw = more battery life
Keeping the Van (and the Business) Running
You can’t work if your “office” is out of commission. So we do regular checks:
Weekly battery + inverter inspections
Tire pressure checks for safe driving and fuel efficiency
Water system flushes and filter swaps
Community, Meetups & Giving Back
The road is wide—but it’s never lonely. One of the best surprises of working while living in a van has been how many amazing people we’ve met along the way.
Here’s how we stay connected and give back:
🎒 Volunteering at National Parks
💬 Hosting van life meetups
📹 Documenting both the joys and the hard lessons—so others can learn too
Want to Work from the Road Too?
If you’re dreaming of working while living in a van, you're not alone—and it’s more doable than you think. It won’t be perfect, but it will be unforgettable.
We’re living proof that your career and your craving for adventure don’t have to compete. You can grow both—one mile at a time.
Follow along with us on our channels as the story starts to unfold.
Let’s Get You Moving in the Right Direction
Kick tires. Ask questions. Drift awhile.
🎥 Explore Our YouTube ChannelWatch van tours, build reveals, and behind-the-scenes footage straight from our shop.
👥 Join Our Vanlife Layout Ideas Facebook GroupExplore layout concepts, ask questions, and get feedback from other dreamers and doers.
📜 Checkout The Drift — Our Vanlife BlogCreated by builders. Filled with vanlife tips, design inspiration, product reviews, and real client stories from the road.
🖼️ Check Out Our Clients Gallery
Browse layout inspiration, interior finishes, and the creative details that make each Drifter Van unique.
📬 Contact Drifter Vans TodayIf you’re ready to start exploring, click below. There’s no pressure—just a starting point.This isn’t a commitment. It’s a door opening.
Not prefab.Not mass-made.Just soul and wheels—built to drive your dreams.
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