Your First Steps in the USA
Now that you’re in the USA, congratulations. Here’s where the fun begins. First and most importantly, you need to find a home base to buy and build your van. This is what we will cover in todays topic.
Where to set up your home base to Buy Your Van - this is a very important topic.
Please note that this blog article is for those without friends or relatives! If you have someone to stay with to build your van, that would be the most ideal.
Finding a place to buy your van, and finding a homebase to build your van comes hand in hand. When it comes to buying a van for your vanlife adventure, there are several factors to consider. You want to find a place where you can find a good quality van at a reasonable price, with a good selection of options to choose from. Some of the best places to buy a van in the USA include:
Down South: The southern states such as Texas, Arizona, and Florida are known for their warm weather, which means that the roads are less likely to be salted during the winter months. This is important because salt can cause rust and corrosion, which can damage your van over time.
Away from Coasts: Coastal areas can be beautiful, but they also tend to be more expensive and crowded. If you're looking for a good deal on a van, it's better to head inland and away from the coast. Also, there will be a great ton of salt from the sea which will likely make your van corroded due to the salt.
College Towns: College towns are a great option for vanlife because they tend to be affordable, populated, and have a lot of amenities that serve foreigners. You can find cheap accommodation during the summer months when students are away, and there are usually plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops to explore.
Why You Should Buy Your Vehicle in the South
As mentioned earlier, buying your van in the South is a good option because the roads are less likely to be salted during the winter months. Additionally, the South is known for its lower cost of living, which means that you can find a good quality van at a reasonable price. Plus, the warm weather is perfect for vanlife, allowing you to explore the outdoors and enjoy nature all year round.
Why College Towns are Good for Vanlife
College towns are an excellent choice for vanlife because they offer a unique mix of affordability, culture, and amenities. The presence of a university means that there are plenty of young people around, creating a vibrant and diverse community. Plus, college towns often have plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops to explore, as well as cultural events and festivals.
Another advantage of college towns is that they often offer affordable short-term accommodation options, such as dorm rooms, during the summer months when students are away. This can be a great way to save money and stay in a comfortable place while you're getting started with vanlife.
Most importantly, they will have amenities that serve foreigners! For example, I was able to get my title and registration transfered to me easily because they are used to seeing foreigners there! Insurance was a breeze as well, as insurance brokers in college town know the best deals for foreigners!
Finding a Place with Home Depot and Walmart
When you're living on the road, it's essential to have access to tools and equipment that you might need for repairs and maintenance. That's why it's a good idea to find a place that has Home Depot and Walmart stores nearby. Home Depot is a home improvement store that offers a wide range of tools, supplies, and equipment for DIY projects, while Walmart is a one-stop-shop for groceries, camping gear, and other essentials.
In conclusion, if you're a Singaporean planning to embark on a vanlife adventure in the USA, consider starting your journey in the South, away from the coast, in a college town with Home Depot and Walmart nearby. This will give you the best chance of finding a good quality van at a reasonable price, while also providing you with the amenities and resources you need to start your vanlife adventure on the right foot.
