Exploring the Freedom of Van Life: Top 5 Vehicles for Adventure Seekers
Not everyone envisions a life framed by a white picket fence; some of us yearn for open roads, breathtaking mountain vistas, and a home that travels with us. Whether your heart races at the thought of chasing sunsets along the coast or waking up to the soft glow of sunrise over desert plains, the perfect vehicle can make that dream a reality. However, not all vans and campers are created equal. Some are designed for rugged off-road adventures, while others focus on cozy interiors, and a select few manage to seamlessly blend both attributes, crafted by nomads for fellow wanderers.
So, whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or embarking on a full-time journey on the road, these five vehicles stand out as the ultimate road trip machines—each offering unique features tailored for both the van life enthusiasts and long-haul adventurers alike.
- 1. Toyota Sienna
- 2. Ford Transit Connect
- 3. Mitsubishi Delica Star Wagon
- 4. Volkswagen Vanagon
- 5. Chrysler Pacifica
1. Toyota Sienna
The Toyota Sienna may not be the first vehicle that springs to mind when you think of “life on the road,” but this minivan has built a solid reputation for durability, reliability, and overall dependability. From classic models dating back to the late 1990s to the latest all-wheel-drive hybrid versions available today, the Sienna has steadily gained popularity among van life enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
Recognizing this growing interest, Toyota introduced the Woodland Edition in 2022, reimagining the minivan into a more SUV-like vehicle, featuring increased ground clearance and electronic on-demand AWD. Although the lift is modest at just 0.6 inches, every bit helps when venturing off the beaten track.
Additional features of the Woodland Edition include roof rails with crossbars, a powerful 1,200W JBL sound system, and an AC power outlet capable of supporting most household electronics. Moreover, for every Woodland Edition sold, Toyota donates $250 to the National Environmental Education Fund (NEEF).
The Sienna is also available in a Hybrid version with AWD, achieving an impressive 35 miles per gallon combined. The rear seats can fold flat into the floor, providing extra space and functionality. Its interior design leans toward luxury, ensuring exceptional comfort for long journeys. If a new AWD Sienna priced at $50,000 is beyond your budget, rest assured that numerous older models are available at significantly more affordable prices. This lower entry cost allows for greater flexibility in customizing the interior to fit your travel needs.
While the Sienna may not match the rugged capability of some SUVs, it’s certainly not limited to paved roads. Several aftermarket companies offer lift kits specifically for these vans, enabling the fitment of larger all-terrain tires. This upgrade expands your travel options, granting access to trailheads, kayaking spots, and off-grid campsites previously deemed unreachable. With its proven reliability, spacious and flexible interior, and abundance of comfort features, the Sienna emerges as an excellent choice for anyone planning to embark on extended adventures.
2. Ford Transit Connect
Now in its second generation in North America, the Ford Transit Connect stands out as a minivan that effortlessly doubles as a highly capable travel rig. If any vehicle on this list could be deemed “sporty,” it would be the Transit Connect, appealing to those who relish the driving experience. Its handling exceeds expectations, delivering an enjoyable experience behind the wheel, even if it doesn’t rival a sports car.
The ability to configure these vans from the factory with or without rear seats or windows makes them an ideal blank canvas for anyone looking to embrace the van life lifestyle. The Transit Connect first arrived in the U.S. as a 2009 model, although earlier versions had already been sold in Europe. These vans are readily available used and are generally quite budget-friendly.
One notable limitation of the Transit Connect is that Ford only produced it with front-wheel drive, making it best suited for paved roads or light-duty dirt tracks. If your travels primarily involve highways and well-trodden routes, the Transit Connect serves as an excellent platform for exploration.
The second generation, produced from 2014 to 2023, is offered in two different lengths, with the long-wheelbase variant being especially desirable for those seeking a roomier van life experience. Several companies, including Ursa Minor based in Portland, Oregon, specialize in converting these vans into campers, particularly pop-top camper versions for the long-wheelbase models.
All Transit Connects are powered by efficient four-cylinder engines. Older models feature a naturally aspirated 2.5L engine, while newer versions may come with either a 2.5L or a 2.0L engine for enhanced performance. A 1.6L EcoBoost turbocharged engine was briefly available, produced in limited quantities. While none of these engines are known for speed, they effectively keep fuel costs lower compared to larger vans. With their blend of practicality, engaging driving dynamics, and widespread availability, Transit Connects make excellent platforms for life on the road. Plus, with Ford’s expansive dealership network, sourcing parts and finding service is typically hassle-free. However, it’s worth noting that Ford has announced it will cease importing the Transit Connect to the U.S. by the end of 2023, although the model will remain available in Europe and other markets.
3. Mitsubishi Delica Star Wagon
The Mitsubishi Delica made its debut in the 1960s, with its name combining “delivery” and “car.” However, it was the arrival of the 1986 Delica Star Wagon that solidified its reputation as an iconic adventure van. Though never officially sold in North America, the Star Wagon combined a car-based unibody with a rugged 4WD system, including a low-range gear set that bestowed impressive off-road capabilities, making it a true go-anywhere vehicle.
The Delica lineup featured a stunning variety of models: low-roof, high-roof, glass-top versions, cold-weather Chamonix editions, vans with bull bars, bench seats, captain’s chairs, and even built-in 12V coolers. The introduction of the Delica Space Gear in 1994 brought a rounder, more modern profile while retaining the off-road strength and modular interior setup.
These models offered various powertrains, including gasoline engines and turbodiesels. Although the early Star Wagons were relatively slow, they could cruise at 65 mph—albeit not without a patience-testing journey. The Space Gear models, introduced after 1994, came equipped with more powerful options, such as a 3.0L V6 or a 2.8L turbodiesel, greatly enhancing highway driving ease.
Despite never being officially sold in the U.S., Delicas that are at least 25 years old can be imported legally and registered in most states, with the exceptions of Maine and Rhode Island. Their spacious interiors, robust drivetrains, and global availability make them an exceptional choice for those living life on the road. The ideal configuration would arguably be a 1994 or newer Delica Space Gear with a 2.8L turbodiesel engine, a high roof, and an extended wheelbase. However, owning a foreign-market vehicle does come with some caveats; parts availability isn’t as seamless as it is for domestic vans. Fortunately, Canadian shops that have legally imported Delicas for over 15 years often stock the necessary parts. Some components, like brake pads and rear rotors, are interchangeable with parts from the Mitsubishi Montero, sold in the U.S. For many enthusiasts, the advantages of owning a Delica far outweigh any drawbacks, making these distinctive vans beloved by overland travelers worldwide.
4. Volkswagen Vanagon
It’s almost a given that the VW Vanagon is a true classic. Offered in both 2WD and 4WD configurations (with the 4WD models known as Syncros), the Vanagon is a legendary minivan whose lineage traces back to the original Microbus—the pioneer of the minivan world. People were embracing van life in these vehicles long before the term “van life” entered mainstream vernacular.
For decades, Vanagons have been cherished by travelers around the globe. The 4WD Syncro versions, particularly those customized, are highly sought after and can command prices upwards of $70,000, thanks to their off-road capabilities and luxurious camper-style interiors. When outfitted with pop-top campers from companies like Westfalia, their value increases even further. Over the years, countless Vanagons have been transformed into road-ready adventure vehicles, with Westfalia conversions being the most iconic.
Even 2WD models, despite lacking four-wheel drive, retain significant value due to their proven track record and robust aftermarket ecosystem. While Vanagons may not be as dependable as some Japanese vans, they possess a distinct rugged charm and versatility. Of all the vehicles featured here, the Vanagon arguably boasts the richest history of full-time dwellers and road travelers making it their home.
Depending on your location, you’ll find more than 20 years’ worth of models to select from, each offering a variety of engine options. Performance may not be their strong suit, but the global Vanagon owner community is fiercely loyal and often eager to assist fellow owners in need. For those craving more power, many enthusiasts upgrade the original VW engines with modern Subaru motors, providing these classic German vans with much-needed performance enhancements. The Vanagon endures as a beloved icon—truly a minivan before the term even existed in its modern context. If any one van could embody the spirit of minivan life on the road, it would undoubtedly be the Vanagon.
5. Chrysler Pacifica
I recently had the opportunity to spend a week driving a new Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, and I must admit, I was thoroughly impressed by its refinement and capabilities. Having grown up riding in a mid-’80s Dodge Voyager and a 1990s Chrysler Town & Country during a road trip from Minnesota to Mexico City in 1994, I can confidently say that the Pacifica is nothing like the old Chrysler vans with faux wood panels and tacky hubcaps. The Pacifica is a legitimate road trip machine!
The current Pacifica, launched in 2017, offers exceptional comfort and convenience. Much like the Toyota Sienna, the Pacifica’s rear seats fold neatly into the floor, and by removing the middle-row captain’s chairs, the cabin transforms into a spacious area perfect for camping, relaxing, or whatever activities van lifers require.
During my week of exploration, I removed the seats, unrolled a double-wide sleeping bag, and still had ample room for all my gear. I even had access to monitors in the front seat headrests for watching TV or gaming, which added a fun element to my travels. The panoramic glass roof on my Hybrid model was an added bonus, perfect for stargazing at night.
Moreover, the front seats were heated, ventilated, and incredibly plush. Combine that with a top-tier infotainment system, and you have a seriously capable ride that just happens to be a minivan. The more time I spent in the Pacifica, the more I envisioned how easily it could transition into a full-time travel vehicle with the right interior setup. Even without a fancy build, it cruised effortlessly on the highway, providing such a high level of comfort that long drives felt effortless and fatigue-free.
On top of all that, the Hybrid version delivers up to 82 MPGe or around 30 mpg when running on gas alone—not too shabby at all. If you require all-wheel drive, there’s a Pacifica option for that as well, featuring a 3.6L V6 engine delivering 287 horsepower. While it may not provide hybrid-like fuel efficiency, the AWD model compensates with added capability. And yes, you can even install modest lift kits to increase ground clearance and accommodate larger tires. Chrysler helped pioneer the modern minivan, and after experiencing the new Pacifica, it’s evident that they continue to lead the pack.