Yvon Milliard
VanLife Campers Ambassador
Last update: April 24, 2026
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Vanlife 3 Years Later: Our Honest Review
Who better than real vanlifers to share an honest reflection after three years on the road? Yvon and Louise, a retired couple with an active lifestyle and proud ambassadors of VanLife Campers, embarked on this adventure three years ago. Since then, their van has become much more than a vehicle—it’s a lifestyle that has brought them unexpected discoveries, enriching experiences, and above all, a deep sense of freedom. Here is Louise’s sincere and personal perspective on their journey.
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4 minutes
A life-changing experience
Traveling in a van has completely transformed their daily life.
“Vanlife has truly changed our lives. We knew it from day one.”
From the very beginning, they felt that this lifestyle would become their “second life”—a nomadic way of living they had always dreamed about.
The enthusiasm for vanlife is real, and it’s easy to understand why. The freedom and autonomy it provides are incredibly powerful, and even after three years, the excitement is still there.
Stepping outside your comfort zone
Living on the road naturally pushes you out of your comfort zone. Over time, that comfort zone expands through experience and patience.
Everyone moves at their own pace, and it’s important to respect your own rhythm.
“Go at your own pace.”
At first, fears are normal. Their first night of boondocking wasn’t easy—every noise felt amplified. But little by little, those fears fade and confidence grows.
Learning to live in the moment
Vanlife teaches you to appreciate the present moment in a completely different way.
“We truly learn to live in the present moment.”
Simple things like a hot shower or access to water and electricity take on a whole new meaning. It shifts your perspective and builds a deep sense of gratitude.
The importance of slowing down
Traveling often becomes an intense exploration. There is always more to see, more to discover.
But over time, they learned something important: you can’t see everything.
Even after spending two months in Newfoundland, they didn’t see it all—and that’s perfectly okay.
Human connections above all
What truly makes each trip unforgettable is not just the places, but the people met along the way.
Human connections are the true essence of vanlife.
From their very first trips, they met incredible people who later became close friends, forming what they now call their vanlife community.
The reality of vanlife
Vanlife is not perfect. There are ups and downs, just like in everyday life.
Finding a place to sleep can sometimes be challenging, and not every moment looks like a postcard.
But every challenge comes with something positive—unexpected discoveries, new places, and memorable detours.
A constant sense of wonder
Nature remains one of the most powerful aspects of their journey.
The beauty of nature never stops amazing us.
Sunrises, sunsets, wildlife, landscapes—these moments have created lasting memories and a sense of childlike wonder.
A lifestyle without limits
One of their biggest realizations is that vanlife is accessible to everyone.
There is no age limit to enjoying vanlife.
They met inspiring people of all ages, including an octogenarian couple traveling across Quebec at their own pace.
Always ready for the next adventure
After three years, the desire to travel is stronger than ever.
They are already planning their next journey to the southwestern United States and Baja California, knowing that flexibility will always be part of the experience.
Vanlife allows them to adapt their plans at any time and follow opportunities as they arise.
Long live vanlife!
Final thoughts
Follow their adventures and discover more of their journey on their blog here.
So, when will your adventure begin?
Take the first step toward vanlife and explore our models now.
FAQ's
What is the biggest benefit of vanlife after several years?
The freedom, adaptability, and personal growth it brings.
Is vanlife difficult at the beginning?
It can be, but it becomes easier with experience and confidence.
What matters most when traveling in a van?
The people you meet and the experiences you live.
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