The call of the open road, the freedom of the wild, and the comfort of a tiny home on wheels—this is the essence of Vanlife Diaries. For many travelers, the romance of van living isn’t just a weekend adventure; it’s a lifestyle that celebrates minimalism, mobility, and the raw beauty of nature. Whether you’re a seasoned vanlifer or a weekend road warrior, choosing the right route and campsite can turn a good trip into an unforgettable one.
This blog is your ultimate guide to the most scenic routes and campsites around the world—destinations where the journey is just as breathtaking as the destination.
Why Vanlife Is More Than a Trend
Before diving into the best routes and campsites, it’s important to understand why so many people are turning to vanlife. The concept, immortalized by social media through hashtags and the growing popularity of Vanlife Diaries, represents a shift in how we think about travel, time, and space.
Key reasons people embrace vanlife:
- Freedom of movement: No rigid schedules or check-in times—go where the road takes you.
- Budget-friendly: Eliminate hotel costs and cook your own meals.
- Closer to nature: Sleep under the stars, wake up by lakes, and park next to mountains.
- Digital nomad-friendly: Wi-Fi boosters and solar panels make it possible to work remotely.
- Sustainable living: Smaller space, less energy use, and a deeper appreciation for the environment.
Now that we’ve covered the “why,” let’s explore the “where.”
Best Scenic Routes for Vanlife Lovers Around the World
1. Pacific Coast Highway – California, USA
Arguably one of the most iconic drives in the world, the PCH stretches from San Diego to San Francisco, hugging the cliffs above the Pacific Ocean.
Why It’s Special:
- Stunning ocean views, especially around Big Sur.
- Quaint towns like Carmel and Santa Barbara.
- Endless pull-outs for sunset views and spontaneous stops.
Top Campsites:
- Kirk Creek Campground (Big Sur): Clifftop ocean views.
- Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park: Redwood forest serenity.
- Refugio State Beach: Beachside camping near Santa Barbara.
2. Great Ocean Road – Victoria, Australia
This 240-km coastal road offers some of Australia’s most dramatic coastal scenery.
Why It’s Special:
- View the Twelve Apostles rock formations.
- Surf-friendly beaches and wildlife spotting.
- Rainforest walks and waterfalls in Otway National Park.
Top Campsites:
- Aire Crossing Campground: Nestled within a rainforest.
- Johanna Beach Campground: Ideal for beach lovers.
- Cumberland River Holiday Park: Mountain and river backdrop.
3. Ring Road – Iceland
This 1,332 km loop around Iceland takes you past glaciers, volcanoes, hot springs, and waterfalls.
Why It’s Special:
- Waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss.
- Soak in natural hot springs like the Secret Lagoon.
- Drive through black sand deserts and along fjords.
Top Campsites:
- Skaftafell Campground: Near glacier hikes.
- Egilsstaðir Campsite: Scenic and centrally located.
- Kirkjubaer II: Great for seeing the northern lights.
4. Garden Route – South Africa
A diverse 300-km route from Mossel Bay to Storms River filled with beaches, forests, and wildlife.
Why It’s Special:
- Spot elephants in Knysna Forest.
- Bungee jump at Bloukrans Bridge.
- Coastal lagoons and wildlife sanctuaries.
Top Campsites:
- Ebb & Flow Rest Camp (Wilderness): Riverside beauty.
- Storms River Mouth Rest Camp: Cliffside ocean views.
- Nature’s Valley Rest Camp: Dense forest setting.
5. Canadian Rockies – Alberta, Canada
The Icefields Parkway between Jasper and Banff offers jaw-dropping alpine scenery.
Why It’s Special:
- Towering peaks, turquoise lakes, and glacier views.
- Spot elk, moose, and even bears.
- Numerous hiking and canoeing opportunities.
Top Campsites:
- Two Jack Lakeside (Banff): Lakeside serenity.
- Wapiti Campground (Jasper): Near hot springs.
- Rampart Creek: Remote and scenic with stargazing potential.
Vanlife Diaries: Tips for Finding the Perfect Campsite with a View
As featured often in Vanlife Diaries, finding that perfect morning view isn’t just about luck—it’s about smart planning.
Tips for incredible campsites:
- Use apps like iOverlander, Campendium, and Park4Night to discover hidden gems.
- Arrive early, especially in popular areas, to claim the best spots.
- Check reviews and pictures uploaded by fellow travelers.
- Don’t rely solely on cell signal—download offline maps and campsite info ahead of time.
- Respect the rules: Some areas prohibit overnight parking. Look for designated vanlife-friendly zones.
Packing Essentials for a Scenic Road Trip
Being prepared can make all the difference when you’re chasing mountain sunsets or beachside sunrises.
Must-Have Gear:
- Portable solar panels: Keep your devices charged anywhere.
- Water storage tanks: For off-grid boondocking.
- Compact cookware: Lightweight but durable pots and pans.
- Pop-up tent or hammock: For expanding your campsite setup.
- Wi-Fi hotspot: Ideal for digital nomads.
- Insulation and fan: To manage heat and cold across climates.
How to Practice Responsible Vanlife
A recurring theme in Vanlife Diaries is sustainability. The beauty you seek needs to be preserved, not polluted.
Sustainable Vanlife Tips:
- Leave no trace: Pack out all trash and avoid disturbing wildlife.
- Use biodegradable products: Soap, toothpaste, and dishwashing liquids.
- Limit water use: Conserve fresh water and avoid waste.
- Support local economies: Buy food and goods from small local businesses.
- Use public restrooms and dump stations responsibly.
Final Thoughts: Road Trip Living with Soul
The real magic of vanlife isn’t just about driving—it’s about connection. With the land, the people, and yourself. It’s those moments: watching fog roll in over a forest from your back door, cooking breakfast by a lake, falling asleep to the sound of crashing waves.
In the end, Vanlife Diaries are not just stories—they’re personal, powerful experiences of life lived more freely and more fully. Whether you’re documenting your own road trip or just dreaming of hitting the road, remember: the world is wide, the views are endless, and your van is your ticket to seeing it all.
So fuel up, roll down the windows, and let your own Vanlife Diaries begin.
