Van life in Spain – the best things about living in a motorhome

Are you an experienced van traveller, or would you like to experience van life in Spain? A campervan is a great way to explore Spain. The freedom to go wherever you like and whenever you want is another benefit.

Imagine enjoying a delicious breakfast as you watch the sun rise while listening to the birds sing or waves crash on the beach. Van life is a great way to experience Spain as an expat. Every day brings new adventures.

You can make your camper van work for you by reading this guide.

What are the advantages of living in a van for expats in Spain?

Cheap Living

You should plan to rent a camper van in Spain This is likely to cost less in the long run than renting a home. You won´t have to come up with the initial two-month deposit, you can move when you wish without giving notice and you can take your pet with you!

You will incur initial costs when you decide to buy a van to tour SpainBut these savings will far outweigh any monthly expenses in the end.

Freedom to choose your own path

Van life lets you explore Spain at a pace that suits you. You can spend a few days at a nature retreat or hidden cove. If the weather is changing or you are experiencing noisy neighbours, you can leave and continue on your journey.

Spain offers a wide variety of landscapes. The different regions of Spain have their own personalities, whether it’s the sun-drenched Mediterranean Coast or the greenery in the North.

You can find a place to love in Spain by travelling with a van. You can visit a place at different times, and mix with locals and expats.

Get close to nature

You can explore Spain’s many national parks in a campervan and enjoy time in the nature. Each national park in Spain is surrounded by stunning scenery and lakes.

The following are some of the best National Parks in Spain.

• Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici – you’ll find this park in the central Pyrenees, set against a backdrop of mountainous landscape. The region is famous for its more than 200 lakes and rivers.

• Sierra de Guadarrama – explore pine forests and mountain paths while spotting wildlife such as deer, eagles and lizards in this park that’s only an hour from Madrid.

• Sierra de las Nieves – set in the south of Spain, in Andalusia, this park offers greenery, caves and mountains. Spend time in the traditional villages of the park with their whitewashed structures and slower pace of life. Visit the Tolox Health Spa, which uses water flowing from the mountains.

New friends are always welcome

Van life allows you to interact with other people who also enjoy the outdoors. It’s likely that you will make new friends at various locations. They can offer useful advice regarding where to park, and which attractions to visit.

You’ll meet people from all over the world in a Spanish campervan. They speak different languages and are part of a diverse community who love nature. It’s a great way to make new friends and enjoy the countryside while enjoying a beer with a plate full of olives.

Clear the clutter

Have you ever wanted to simplify your life? To only have the necessities in order to live comfortably? Here’s your chance to declutter and scale back. The van life is about experiencing the world and forgetting all material possessions.

Camping in a van requires discipline and organisation. The most important items are practical clothing, kitchen equipment, toiletries and warm bed linen. All extras will take valuable space.

Take part in local culture

A van allows you to interact with the local community in a different way than a traditional tour. It gives you the chance to connect with people of all backgrounds and experience Spain as it is.

You’ll gain a deeper understanding of Spanish culture by chatting with the owner of the local petrol station, purchasing supplies in the bakery, or asking for directions to a parking lot. And you can practise and improve your language skills – which will be appreciated by the Spaniards you meet.

Do you want to buy or rent a van camper?

You should weigh the pros and cons of renting or buying a campervan before embarking on your Spanish adventure. You might want to go on a single trip to test the waters and see if you like motorhomes. Or, you may consider buying one to live in for part of the time or permanently.

No matter your situation, here are some things to consider.

Renting a camper van in Spain

• Lower initial cost

Renting a van is a much cheaper option than buying one. It is perfect for expats that want to test out van life without committing long term or those who only plan a short stay in Spain.

• Driving a camper van

It’s best to rent a van if you’ve never driven one. You can get used to driving a larger vehicle, as it is very different to a car.

• Flexibility

Renting is flexible. Renting offers flexibility.

• Less responsibility

Rental companies handle maintenance, insurance and registration, so you only have to worry about driving the van and where to park it for the night.

It’s good to know

To ensure that your trip runs smoothly, it is essential to plan ahead for electricity and water needs. Consider buying or renting a van equipped with a reliable water storage system. Also, consider adding solar power or a portable generator to your travels.

How to buy a campervan in Spain

• Ownership

A camper van is an asset that you can sell at a later date. You can travel whenever you want and on short notice if you own a van, such as out of season, or when the weather is looking good.

• New or pre-owned

A campervan is a great option for those who want to buy a new vehicle. second-hand camper van. You might want to purchase a brand new van with the latest mod cons. Or you could buy a second-hand van that can be customised.

• Long-term cost savings

Buying a van can be much cheaper than paying rent or a mortgage and gives you the freedom to ‘move house’ whenever you wish.

• Personalisation

When you own your van, you can customise it according to your requirements. You might want a built-in desk to work remotely, a shower on board or extra storage – adding features is all part of the fun of van life.

Rent or buy? buy a camper van, Van life offers an unforgettable experience whether you travel to the Pyrenees or the Pyrenees in the south or north of Spain. Contact the Hispavan team We can discuss your needs for a campervan rental or purchase in Spain.