Living in a van is all about freedom, flexibility, and being prepared for whatever the road throws at you. Whether you’re full-timing or weekending, having the right gear on hand can make the difference between a great trip and a frustrating one.
Here’s a full breakdown of must-have tools and supplies you’ll want to keep in your van — organized by category, based on real-world experience.
1. Daily Living Essentials
These are the basics that keep you comfortable, hydrated, and functional day-to-day.
Water Storage
- Reliance 10L containers are some of the best — durable, stackable, easy to pour
- Carry as many as your setup allows — at least one for drinking, one for general use
- A small collapsible basin helps for dishwashing or hand washing
Fuel Storage
- Jerry cans for diesel or gas, depending on your setup (especially if you use a generator or diesel heater)
- Spill-proof nozzles and funnel are worth keeping nearby too
Cooking Supplies
- Cutlery and basic cooking utensils
- A tea kettle to heat water quickly (multi-use: tea, coffee, dishes, sponge cleaning)
- Stove or portable burner — propane, butane, or induction, depending on your power setup
- Lighter and waterproof matches as backups
Optional but useful:
- Collapsible table or fold-out surface
- Compact camping chairs
- Food containers or bins to keep everything organized and rodent-proof
2. Heating and Ventilation
Being warm and breathing clean air makes all the difference in comfort.
Heat Source
- Chinese diesel heater (or similar) for dry, off-grid heating
- Make sure it’s installed safely with high-temp silicone and proper venting
Air Quality + Safety
- Smoke alarm
- CO2 detector
- Fire blanket near your bed or cooking area
- Air quality monitor — especially helpful in colder months when everything’s sealed up
- Roof fan or vent for airflow
3. Roadside + Emergency Gear
Breakdowns happen. Be ready when they do.
Tire + Lift Tools
- Spare tire (check condition regularly)
- Jack + tire iron
- Portable air compressor or 12V air pump
- Tire pressure gauge
Battery + Electrical
- Jumper cables or even better: a portable jump starter
- Basic multimeter for electrical issues
- Spare fuses, wire, and connectors if you’ve got a solar or 12V setup
General Tools
- Multi-bit screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench
- Pliers
- Duct tape + zip ties + bungee cords
- Work gloves
- Heat gun (if you’re running a diesel heater or need to seal stuff)
- Sealant (like FlexSeal) for emergency leak repair
- Shamwows or microfiber towels for cleaning up leaks or condensation
4. Miscellaneous But Smart to Carry
These things might not come to mind right away but can save your butt:
- Headlamp or bright flashlight
- Extra batteries or power bank
- Basic first aid kit
- Notebook and pen for logging fuel, mileage, or trip notes
- Folding shovel (especially if you do off-road parking or winter camping)
- Spare USB cables + adapters for your phone and devices
- Bluetooth speaker if you use your van as a mobile office or hangout spot
Bonus: Van Maintenance Supplies You’ll Be Glad You Had
These aren’t daily use items, but when something goes wrong (and eventually, it will), having these on hand can save your trip — and your wallet.
Repair & Utility Tools
- Heat gun (for sealant curing or defrosting locks and lines)
- Blow dryer (if you have the power to run it — handy for drying small areas or thawing)
- Cordless drill or impact driver
- Flex Seal or sealant of choice
- Gorilla Tape / Duct Tape for temporary seals and emergencies
- Extra zip ties and bungee cords
- WD-40 or silicone lubricant
Emergency Fluids & Service Supplies
- Motor oil (at least one top-up bottle for your engine type)
- Coolant/antifreeze
- Diesel/gasoline fuel filter (especially if you’ve got a diesel van or heater)
- Oil pan or container (compact version, just in case)
- Funnel + gloves for fluid handling
- Rags or absorbent towels (multipurpose: repairs, leaks, and cleaning)
Quick-Grab Everyday Items
Some items don’t seem essential… until you realize you’re reaching for them almost daily.
- Rubbing alcohol – for quick disinfecting, sticker removal, and cleaning seal surfaces
- Hydrogen peroxide – a gentler cleaner and backup for first aid
- ShamWow or microfiber cloths – soak up spills, clean surfaces, wipe condensation
- All-purpose cleaner or vinegar spray – keeps your space livable without harsh chemicals
- Hand sanitizer + baby wipes – essential when water’s limited
- Paper towels + toilet paper – store in waterproof bags or bins to keep them dry
These are the little things that keep the van clean, safe, and feeling like a home — don’t sleep on them.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to carry a full garage’s worth of gear — but having the right essentials will make your vanlife smoother, safer, and way more enjoyable.
Start with the basics, customize for your setup, and keep things simple. As you spend more time on the road, you’ll naturally refine what matters most to your flow.
➡️ [Next read: “Are Chinese Diesel Heaters Worth It? (And How to Install One Right)”]
➡️ [Next read: “How to Fix a Leak in Your Camper Van — Even During Rain”]
➡️ [Next read: “Vanlife Safety & Security Tips (Stealth, Anti-Theft & Peace of Mind)”]
