Cozy vanlife setup with the Roadloft camper kit, providing comfort and warmth for off-grid living.

How to make vanlife more comfortable: Tips & Must-Have Gear

For some, vanlife can be as simple as throwing a mattress in the back of their car and hitting the road. While we agree vanlife is all about simplicity, that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort. With the right setup, you can enjoy the freedom of the road while feeling at home wherever you go. In this guide, we’ll share essential tips, setup ideas, and must-have accessories to live the ultimate comfortable vanlife experience.

Best sleeping solutions for a cozy vanlife experience

The time you’ll spend the most in your camper is when you’re sleeping, so having a comfortable sleeping setup is essential.

A comfortable vanlife starts with a good mattress. If you’re 6 feet or taller, you will not be comfortable in a bed that is too short. That’s why all Roadloft camper conversion kits are designed to be tall-person friendly, with bed lengths ranging from 72 to 80 inches.

Warning! Density matters more than thickness. A higher-density mattress keeps its shape and won’t sag over time. To add an extra layer of comfort, look for a mattress that combines firm support with a memory foam top layer, just like the Roadloft mattress. Also, make sure the mattress cover is waterproof as it prevents moisture buildup and makes cleaning easy.

Blanket & pillow: cozy bedding essentials

Spacious 71-inch sleeping area in the Roadloft camper conversion for maximum relaxation.

Your blanket and pillow can make or break a good night’s sleep. To really feel at home, we use a fitted sheet and proper bedding. Adjust the number of layers depending on the temperature, and for added comfort, we love having this Alpaca queen blanket. For colder nights camping tips, read our article here

We also suggest bringing your favorite pillow from home for familiar comfort, wherever you park.

How to make vanlife more comfortable: Tips & Must-Have Gear

Levelers are an easy and effective way to ensure your camper is parked on a flat surface, no matter the terrain. By adjusting the height of your wheels, they help you create a stable and level sleeping area.

Must-have accessories for a cozy vanlife setup

Comfort goes beyond just a good night’s sleep. Creating a warm, functional space with the right accessories makes your camper truly feel like home. Whether you’re relaxing after a long hike or sipping coffee at sunrise, these accessories help turn your Roadloft setup into a cozy haven.
How to make vanlife more comfortable: Tips & Must-Have Gear

Curtains create a sense of privacy and coziness. For added insulation, especially in cold weather, we recommend heatshield insulation curtains. They help retain warmth and block out the cold, making your space more comfortable no matter the season.
Don’t miss our full article on comfort during cold-weather camping for more tips!

mosquito nets: airflow and bug-free

Cozy and ergonomic chair for vanlife setup, offering comfort while on the road with Roadloft camper kit.

Mosquito nets are a must for proper airflo, especially when traveling in warm weather. They allow you to keep your space well-ventilated without letting bugs in, making a big difference in comfort. You can opt for a mosquito net shelter at the tailgate to keep your hatch open, or install window mosquito nets for extra airflow while you sleep.

Foldable accessories: Maximize your space

In a compact space, smart storage is everything. Foldable gear helps keep your van uncluttered, which instantly makes it more comfortable and relaxing to be in.

With a portable stove, you can easily prepare your favorite dishes, wherever you are. We love the Pinnacle pro stove, since it is thin and lightweight. Nothing says comfort like a warm, home-cooked meal.

Set up your foldable outdoor table in seconds to enjoy your meals or happy hour in the fresh air, one of the joys of vanlife!

Collapsible sink

Retractable sink in the Roadloft minivan kit, designed for space-saving and convenient use while traveling.

No need to walk your dishes to a camping sink. This simple tool makes cleaning up quick and easy, while keeping your Roadloft kitchen setup neat and efficient.

How to make vanlife more comfortable: Tips & Must-Have Gear

A high-back folding chair is a game changer. We’ve been using the NatureHike model for years, and it’s hands down the most comfortable camping chair we’ve tried. Whether you’re sitting around a campfire, enjoying your morning coffee, or eating dinner outside your camper, a comfortable chair adds a huge boost to your overall comfort.

Cozy lightning

How to make vanlife more comfortable: Tips & Must-Have Gear

Lighting can completely transform your van interior. Soft, warm lights create a relaxing, homey atmosphere. Consider fairy lights for that magical vibe and LED strips to highlight your camper layout. We also love having the Moji portable battery lantern for reading or getting a bit of work done after dark.

Practical tips to make vanlife more comfortable

How to make vanlife more comfortable: Tips & Must-Have Gear
Vanlife is all about freedom, but comfort is what makes it sustainable. These simple tips can make a world of difference in how cozy, practical, and enjoyable your daily life on the road feels.

Hygiene: Feel Fresh

Nothing feels better than being fresh after a long day of exploring. Maintaining good hygiene boosts your comfort. Whether it’s with biodegradable wipes, a compact portable shower, or a dip in a lake, creating your own hygiene routine helps you feel refreshed no matter how off-grid your adventure takes you. Learn more about maintaining a hygiene routine on the road with our article.

Storage: A Tidy Space Is a Cozy Space

Clutter is the enemy of comfort in a small space. Smart storage solutions, like the under-bed compartments included in every Roadloft camper conversion kit, allow you to stay organized while keeping essential items close at hand. Car seat organizer are a must to collect all your small objects and access them easily.

Be comfortable all-year-long

Choosing vanlife means embracing a simple way to live. But for this lifestyle to truly be sustainable, comfort has to come along for the ride. Whether you’re chasing sunsets in the summer or waking up to frosty views in winter, being prepared for all weather conditions helps you stay cozy and ready to enjoy the road ahead. Explore our seasonal guides for more tips and tricks to stay comfortable in every climate:
How to make vanlife more comfortable: Tips & Must-Have Gear

Comfort Tips For Cold Night Camping

If we told you that for us, camping season starts on May 1st and ends in December, would you be surprised? The advantage is that we can enjoy the most touristy places in peace, because we are the only ones there!
Read More »
How to make vanlife more comfortable: Tips & Must-Have Gear

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