2 minute read
Give me the van-life
One in ten people who staycationed in a campervan or motorhome during the pandemic would like to ditch their homes and commit to life on the road. That's one of the findings of a survey from Sterling Insurance, which revealed that after these so-called staycation experiences, many are tempted to switch to ‘van-life’.
The research also revealed that more than two-fifths (41%) have changed their opinions and find this on-the-road lifestyle more appealing than they did prepandemic.
People found this so enjoyable that 68% confirmed they plan to take a campervan staycation in the next 12 months. And more than a third of all respondents (37%) said they were keen to buy a campervan or motorhome following positive travel experiences this past summer.
“We love life in the van – it offers all the comforts of home while we get to explore new places,” commented Tash and Jon [@ life_beyond_bricks], who now live in their campervan full time after enjoying several staycations in it.
Curiosity and wellbeing seem to be key motivators, with those surveyed citing a desire to see more of the UK, spend more time with family and improve their mental health as the top three reasons to spend time travelling on the road.
To make the most of more flexible working conditions, 16% felt that ‘van-life’ can provide them with a better work/life balance.
Peter Cook, floor manager at Sterling Insurance said, “It’s great to find that so many Brits have loved their campervan and motorhome experiences, and we expect to see interest continue to grow into 2022. We think it’s exciting that many are keen to take to the road more permanently and brave the van-life.
“And we wanted to help people achieve their ambitions with our new van-life insurance. A policy specifically for those making a lifechanging switch, and who may find it difficult to get insurance without a permanent address,” he added.
Emma Orlando [@emmaorlando] has been living and working on the road during the pandemic: “When the pandemic hit and I couldn't travel overseas anymore, I decided to explore the UK while running my own business. So far, it's been an absolute dream parking in some beautiful spots – wild camping in Scotland was incredible, and I got to wake up in the most beautiful places.
“I wouldn't trade the lifestyle for anything! If you are someone that can work remotely, I highly recommend giving it a go.” Visit www.sterling-insurance.co.uk/ blog/campervan/van-life-guide for Sterling's guide with practical information and recommendations on taking up the ‘van-life’.
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