60 Nights on the Road: Why Campervan Life Sticks
A Lifestyle, Not Just a Holiday
By the time Jo looked back on her first year with Vino, her Mercedes Viano campervan, she realised something remarkable: she and Finn had already spent around 60 nights on the road. That’s not just a handful of holidays, that’s a lifestyle.
“It’s become my pressure release,” Jo said. “After a busy week, just knowing I can throw a bag in the campervan and escape changes how I feel.”
The Magic of the New Forest
One of Jo’s favourite escapes is the New Forest, a landscape of ancient woodlands, free-roaming ponies, and quiet lanes. She describes the feeling as soon as she crosses the cattle grid into the park: a sense that the world slows down.
“It’s like flicking a switch,” Jo explained. “The stress just drops away, and suddenly you’re surrounded by trees and ponies. Even a short weekend feels like a proper break.”
The New Forest offers countless walks, bike rides, and cosy pubs, and with Vino as a base, Jo could enjoy them all without worrying about where to stay.
Reconnection on the Road
For Jo, campervan life isn’t only about solitude. It’s also about reconnection, with friends, family, and even strangers. Whether parking up on a friend’s driveway, sharing stories with fellow travellers, or meeting new people drawn in by Finn’s wagging tail, the campervan became a social hub.
“It’s funny how a campervan invites conversation,” Jo said. “People are curious, they want to see inside, and before you know it, you’ve made a new connection.”
Simple Comforts, Big Impact
Some of Jo’s happiest moments came from the simplest details. She loves her folding chairs, perfect for sitting outside with a cup of tea. Her kettle, matched in colour to Vino’s burgundy paintwork, became a running joke with friends. The pop-top roof and gas heater proved invaluable, giving extra space and comfort whether in summer or on chilly evenings.
“Little things make such a big difference,” she said. “When everything works and feels cosy, you’re not just travelling, you’re living.”
Campervan Wellbeing
It surprised Jo how much campervan life improved her wellbeing. The act of stepping away from her routine, switching off her phone, and waking up to the sounds of birdsong or the sea air had a profound impact on her stress levels.
“There’s something about being close to nature,” she explained. “It grounds you. Even if it’s just for a night or two, it resets your head.”
Science backs her up: studies show that spending time outdoors can reduce stress, boost mood, and improve sleep quality. With a campervan, that kind of restorative escape is always within reach.
Always Ready for the Next Trip
Unlike a caravan or a tent, a campervan is always ready to go. Jo values how easy it is to decide on a whim and set off, no long checklists, no stress.
“That’s what makes it addictive,” she said. “You don’t need a big plan. You can just say, ‘shall we?’ and within an hour you’re on the road.”
Advice for New Owners
Looking back on her first year, Jo had one piece of advice for anyone thinking about buying a campervan: just do it.
“You’ll never regret it,” she said. “The experiences, the freedom, the places you’ll see, they’re worth far more than you can imagine before you start.”
Her only caveat? Don’t be surprised if you find yourself using it far more than you expected. “I thought it might be for a few holidays a year. Now I can’t imagine life without it.”
Looking Back, Looking Forward
From Shetland’s northern cliffs to the rolling Dales and the open roads of France, Jo’s campervan adventures in Vino have been about much more than miles. They’ve been about reconnection, spontaneity, and well-being.
“I feel more alive when I’m in the campervan,” she said simply. “It’s become part of who I am.”
Why Choose Free Spirit Campervans?
Jo’s journey illustrates precisely why owning a campervan can be such a life-changing decision. It’s not just transport, it’s a gateway to freedom, connection, and wellbeing.
At Free Spirit Campervans, we craft vehicles like Vino that give you everything you need for a life on the road: comfort, reliability, and style. Whether you’re dreaming of weekends in the New Forest or months exploring Europe, we’ll help make it possible.
👉 Explore our latest stock: Free Spirit Campervans Showroom
📞 Call us on (01243) 649087 to talk through your options.
FAQs
- How do I choose the right campervan for my lifestyle?
Think about how often you’ll use it, whether you’re travelling solo, with a partner, or with pets, and what features matter most, such as heating, storage, or sleeping space. - Is a campervan practical for short weekend trips?
Yes. A campervan is always ready to go, making it ideal for quick escapes without the planning or setup needed for caravans or tents. - What should I budget for when buying a campervan?
Alongside the purchase price, allow for insurance, road tax, servicing, and occasional upgrades or accessories to enhance comfort. - Are campervans easy to drive compared to larger motorhomes?
Definitely. Campervans are more compact, easier to park, and handle much like a car, which makes them less intimidating for new owners. - Can a campervan really improve wellbeing?
Many owners find it helps reduce stress and boosts happiness. Escaping into nature with everything you need on board provides a unique sense of balance and freedom. - How do I keep a campervan comfortable in all seasons?
Look for models with a reliable heater, and ventilation options so you can enjoy trips in both summer and winter. - Do campervans come fully equipped or do I need to add extras?
Free Spirit Campervans are professionally converted with essentials like sleeping, cooking, and heating systems already in place. Optional extras can be added for personalisation. - Is buying a campervan a good investment for regular travellers?
Yes. If you take frequent holidays, owning a campervan quickly pays off compared to hotel stays or rentals, while also giving you more flexibility. - How much space do campervans offer for storage?
A well-designed campervan makes the most of compact space, with clever built-in storage for clothes, food, and outdoor gear. - Why should I buy from Free Spirit Campervans instead of converting one myself?
Buying from Free Spirit means your campervan is expertly built, fully road-tested, and backed by aftercare, giving you peace of mind from day one.
