A Ticket to Adventure

To the Wild Blue Yonder

While the freedom of van life may not be a lifestyle that everyone can maintain on a permanent basis, it is a perfect way to approach a vacation. “The idea is that you've got everything that you need in this little 70-square-foot space, and you have the freedom to go anywhere and see anything,” says Kevin Jornlin, co-owner of Vanish. Bringing the fun along for the entirety of the trip “is a super addicting feeling.”

A voyage in a Vanish van takes travelers to the edge of nowhere and everywhere all at once. While the husband and wife co-owners do provide itineraries across the U.S. that are suitable for all levels of adventure, sometimes the best journeys are left unscripted.

Kevin advises renters to plan an itinerary to ensure that parking spots are available, and they also offer a Field Guide which includes ideas for camp sites, food and bev, nature exploration, and local charm to enhance the Vanish experience. But the real appeal of living in a van for him and co-founder Mallory MacDonald is the liberty it offers to live life off the beaten path. “Take advantage of the mobility of this little cabin on wheels that you have,” he advises, “because the mobility is the real magic.”

For those looking to really test the unlimited miles granted with Vanish, head west to the rugged landscapes of the Chihuahuan Desert and the otherworldly vistas of Big Bend National Park. In the westernmost reaches of the Lone Star State, the van gives a whole new meaning to camping. Pull up anywhere, and just like that, there is a simple cabin set up. The time that is saved on logistics can instead be spent wandering, taking in the sights, or simply sitting around bonding with loved ones. What could make a summer vacation more magical?

CONTACT: 979 Springdale Rd. vanishtravel.com @vanishtravelco