Adjust Your Expectations: Here’s What’s Not Going to Work on Your New Expensive Van Camper

You’ve finally done it. After months (or even years) of research, saving, and dreaming, you’ve got the keys to your brand new van camper. Whether it’s a top-of-the-line Sprinter, a more budget-friendly Promaster, or a relatively rare Transit, this van represents freedom, adventure, and a significant outlay of money. But before you hit the road, it’s important to take a step back and adjust your expectations. No matter how much you’ve spent or how premium your van may be, the reality is that things will break, and not everything is going to work as perfectly as you hoped.

The Reality of Van Life

The first thing to understand is that your van is more than just a vehicle—it’s a complex, mobile living space. It’s got plumbing, electrical systems, heating and cooling, appliances, and a whole host of moving parts. And just like in a traditional home, things can and will go wrong.

Whether you’ve gone all out on a fully customized rig or opted for a budget-friendly model, here are some common issues you might face:

1. Electrical Gremlins

The electrical system in your van is crucial for powering everything from lights and outlets to appliances and charging stations. But even the best electrical systems can experience hiccups. You might find that outlets stop working, your batteries don’t hold a charge like they should, or the solar panels aren’t generating as much power as expected. Electrical issues can be tricky to diagnose and fix, especially when you’re far from a professional.

2. Plumbing Problems

Plumbing in a van can be a source of frustration. Leaky faucets, clogged drains, and malfunctioning water pumps are common complaints. Even worse, the water tanks might develop leaks, or you could find yourself dealing with frozen pipes in colder weather. And if your van has a shower, don’t be surprised if it doesn’t deliver the luxurious experience you were hoping for—especially if water pressure is an issue.

3. HVAC Woes

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are essential for comfort on the road, but they’re also prone to issues. The furnace might not heat the van evenly, the air conditioner could struggle to keep up with hot summer days, or the vents might not distribute air as efficiently as they should. Even in premium models, HVAC systems are often underwhelming compared to what you’d expect in a traditional home.

4. Cabinet and Fixture Failures

The cabinets, drawers, and fixtures in your van are constant bombarded with vibration and jolting as you drive, which means they’re more likely to loosen, warp, or break over time. Even the sturdiest materials can’t fully withstand the wear and tear of van life. Expect to make adjustments, tighten screws, and occasionally deal with a drawer that just won’t stay shut.

5. Appliance Disappointments

From refrigerators and microwaves to stovetops and toilets, the appliances in your van are typically smaller, more compact versions of what you’d find in a traditional home—and they don’t always perform as well. Your fridge might struggle to stay cold in extreme temperatures, the microwave will take longer to heat food, and the stovetop burners (especially propane) might not have the power you’re used to. And those tank gauges for your freshwater, gray and black tanks? Yeah, they're mostly useless.

6. Connectivity Challenges

Wi-Fi and cell signal boosters are becoming more common in van builds, but they’re not foolproof. You need a signal to boost in the first place, and you may find yourself in areas with little to no connectivity, even with the best equipment. Streaming movies, working remotely, or even checking your email can become a challenge if you’re in a remote location.

Managing Expectations

The key to enjoying your new van is managing your expectations. Accept it now: things will break, and not everything will work perfectly all the time. But this is part of the van life experience. It’s about embracing the unpredictability, being resourceful, and learning to fix things on the fly. Here’s how to keep your sanity:

• Embrace the Imperfections: No van is perfect, and that’s okay. Focus on the freedom and adventure that van life offers rather than the minor inconveniences.

  
  

• Be Prepared for Repairs: Carry a basic toolkit and familiarize yourself with the common issues your van might face. Being able to handle small repairs on your own will save you time and money.

  
  

• Stay Flexible: Plans will change, things will break, and sometimes you’ll need to improvise. The more adaptable you are, the more you’ll enjoy the journey.