A First Timer’s Guide to a Vanlife Road Trip

Getting the hang of the drive

At first, I was dead set on renting a vintage trailer, like a cute Airstream or scamp. “Just think of the photos!” I told myself. “But you’ve never towed one!” I argued back.

They look cool on Instagram, but unless you’ve driven a ginormous RV before, or mastered a trailer’s weird turning radius, it’s probably wise to steer clear of those vehicles. A small camper van is not only easier to maneuver, it allows you to get off the beaten path, all while rocking some pretty impressive gas mileage. You can cram all your stuff in there, and still park comfortably in most spots.

Even still, camper vans are topheavy and can be a challenge to drive for first-timers. I’ll admit that I skirted over no less than seven curbs as I gained my van-legs with Suerta’s need for wide turns. The driver’s seat was perched unbelievably high (which was cool) and the rearview mirror was basically useless (not cool). I was pleasantly surprised that Suerta was able to keep up with traffic on the busy highways leading out of Phoenix; she had some pep in her step. That is, unless any elevation change was involved. She did not like going up or coming down any sort of hill. Same girl, same.