2024 REI Winter Sale: These are the 15 Best Deals!

Every November, the REI has a huge winter sale that I think is one of their best sales of the year. This year’s sale is taking place November 15-25, and it’s a great time to stock up on winter gear, holiday gifts, or outdoor products that you want for next summer.

In this post, I’ve scoured the REI website and handpicked the best REI Winter Sale deals with discounts up to 40% off. Everything I recommend here I’ve personally tried.

If you’re an REI Member, you can also save 20% off one-full priced item and an extra 20% of one REI Outlet Item using the code WINTER24. If you’re not a REI Co-op Member already, here are 12 reasons why you should join!

1) 30% off All REI Clothing and Accessories

All REI Co-op Brand Clothing is 30% off. I’ve worn a lot of different REI apparel over the years, and here are a few of my favorite pieces that are worth checking out during the sale:

2) 30% off All REI Camping and Hiking Gear

If you’re looking to get a new tent or other big ticket item, all REI Co-op Brand Hiking and Camping Gear is 30% off. Here is some of my favorite REI gear to check out:

3. $100 Off Garmin inReach Mini 2

If you’ve been following me for a while, you’ve heard me talk about the Garmin Mini 2. I think it’s a MUST for anyone who likes to get out in the backcountry where there isn’t cell service. It can be used to send and receive texts or to call for help if you have an emergency. I’ve even used it to get roadside assistance when my Sprinter Van battery died outside of Sun Valley one winter.

4. 25% off all Oboz Footwear

I’m a huge fan of Oboz Footwear, so I’m excited to see that every Oboz model is 25% off during the REI Winter Sale (both men’s and women’s). I’m especially fond of the Katabatic for fast and light summer hiking and the Insulated Bridger for winter. If you need help deciding which Oboz model is right for you, check out this post on the Oboz models I use most frequently.

5. 25% off All Outdoor Research Outerwear

I have two Outdoor Research jackets that I’m especially fond of and all Outdoor Research outerwear is 25% off (with the exception of ski jackets) in the REI Winter Sale. Check out these two:

6) 25% off all Icebreaker Clothing

I’m a huge fan of Icebreaker. They make my all-time favorite merino wool base layers for winter hiking and skiing, and I also have a few their sweaters that are so soft and comfortable. However, Icebreaker clothing tends to be pricey, so I always jump at the chance to grab a new piece when they are on sale. During the REI Winter Sale, all Icebreaker clothing is 25% off. If you’re new to Icebreaker, I recommend starting with the Oasis 200 crew top (women’s)(men’s) and the Oasis 200 Thermal leggings (women’s)(men’s).

7) 25% off all Rumpl Blankets

Rumpl makes awesome camping blankets. I’ve been using the 2-person, original puffy as my comforter in my Sprinter Van for years. They are very durable (standing up to my 2 dogs), shake off easily, and can be thrown in the washing machine when they need a refresh. Rumpl blankets come in different sizes and prints, all of which are 25% off.

8) 25% off NEMO Tensor Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad

If you’ve struggled to find a comfortable sleeping pad for backpacking, I encourage you to try the NEMO Tensor Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad, which is currently 25% off. It’s 3.5 inches thick, and it has a valve that allows you to adjust the amount of air inside so you get just the right firmness. With an R-value of 5.4, you can rely on this even in the colder months. And to top it off, it’s incredibly easy to blow up thanks to the inflation sack that it comes with.

9) 20% off Kahtoola Traction Systems

If you get nervous walking on ice in the winter, you have to get a pair of Kahtoola Microspikes which are 20% off during the REI Winter Sale. When I feel ice on the trail, I just slip these on over my boots, and I instantly feel so much safer and more confident. When you’re buying them, double check the sizing since you’ll want to get a bigger size if you are using them over bulkier winter boots.

10) 25% off all Cotopaxi Clothing and Accessories

I’ve got a few Cotopaxi pieces that I really love, and all Cotopaxi apparel is 25% during the sale. I want to give a special shoutout to the Cotopaxi Tech 5-Panel Hat. I got this hat last summer, and it’s become a staple. It’s so light, I hardly notice I’m wearing it, and the brim doesn’t block my vision when I’m hiking. It’s also very breathable, even in the muggiest climates.

11) 25% off all Biolite Lighting

If you’re looking for a way to add some ambiance to your campsite, all Biolite lighting is 25% off. They make some compact, portable lanterns, and I really love the Biolite 325 Headlamp. I’m actually not sure why this headlamp doesn’t get better reviews, because I’ve been using it for years without any issues. I love how easy the strap is to adjust, it’s very light, and the charge easily lasts a 4-night backpacking trip as long as you aren’t using it on the highest setting.

12) 20% off Strider Balance Bikes

If you’ve got a little tyke like me, my son Herbie who is almost 2, loves cruising around on his Strider Balance Bike, which is 20% off. Not only is it fun, but he’s learning how to balance, so when it’s time to graduate to a real bike, the transition will be much easier. The seat and handlebars are fully adjustable, so the bike can grow with your little one.

13) 25% off all Sea to Summit Cook Gear

Sea to Summit makes great collapsible cooking gear that can save space in your pack or camping bins. It’s all 25% right now too! I have some of their silicone collapsible pots that are great for backpacking, and I’ve been eyeing their dinnerware for my new truck camper.

14) 25% off all MSR Stoves and Cookware

In the above photo, I’m cooking on the MSR Pocket Rocket 2, which at 2.6 ounces is one of the lightest backpacking stoves out there. This stove and all other MSR stoves and cooking gear is 25% off.

15) 30% off all REI Brand Travel Gear

All REI travel gear is 30% off. I have two pieces of REI luggage that I use on a majority of my trips. The first is the REI Co-op Big Haul 28L Duffel which is my choice for short weekend trips. I also use it daily in the winter to keep all of my ski accesories organized in my car.

I also have the REI Co-op Big Haul 30″ Wheeled Duffel which is one of the toughest roller bags I’ve owned. It’s got a rugged, water-resistant exterior and really durable wheels that can withstand bumpy roads and being dragged over curbs.

What’s on your wishlist for the REI Winter Sale? Leave a note in the comments below!

The post 2024 REI Winter Sale: These are the 15 Best Deals! appeared first on Bearfoot Theory.

2024 REI Winter Sale: These are the 15 Best Deals!

Every November, the REI has a huge winter sale that I think is one of their best sales of the year. This year’s sale is taking place November 15-25, and it’s a great time to stock up on winter gear, holiday gifts, or outdoor products that you want for next summer.

In this post, I’ve scoured the REI website and handpicked the best REI Winter Sale deals with discounts up to 40% off. Everything I recommend here I’ve personally tried.

If you’re an REI Member, you can also save 20% off one-full priced item and an extra 20% of one REI Outlet Item using the code WINTER24. If you’re not a REI Co-op Member already, here are 12 reasons why you should join!

1) 30% off All REI Clothing and Accessories

All REI Co-op Brand Clothing is 30% off. I’ve worn a lot of different REI apparel over the years, and here are a few of my favorite pieces that are worth checking out during the sale:

2) 30% off All REI Camping and Hiking Gear

If you’re looking to get a new tent or other big ticket item, all REI Co-op Brand Hiking and Camping Gear is 30% off. Here is some of my favorite REI gear to check out:

3. $100 Off Garmin inReach Mini 2

If you’ve been following me for a while, you’ve heard me talk about the Garmin Mini 2. I think it’s a MUST for anyone who likes to get out in the backcountry where there isn’t cell service. It can be used to send and receive texts or to call for help if you have an emergency. I’ve even used it to get roadside assistance when my Sprinter Van battery died outside of Sun Valley one winter.

4. 25% off all Oboz Footwear

I’m a huge fan of Oboz Footwear, so I’m excited to see that every Oboz model is 25% off during the REI Winter Sale (both men’s and women’s). I’m especially fond of the Katabatic for fast and light summer hiking and the Insulated Bridger for winter. If you need help deciding which Oboz model is right for you, check out this post on the Oboz models I use most frequently.

5. 25% off All Outdoor Research Outerwear

I have two Outdoor Research jackets that I’m especially fond of and all Outdoor Research outerwear is 25% off (with the exception of ski jackets) in the REI Winter Sale. Check out these two:

6) 25% off all Icebreaker Clothing

I’m a huge fan of Icebreaker. They make my all-time favorite merino wool base layers for winter hiking and skiing, and I also have a few their sweaters that are so soft and comfortable. However, Icebreaker clothing tends to be pricey, so I always jump at the chance to grab a new piece when they are on sale. During the REI Winter Sale, all Icebreaker clothing is 25% off. If you’re new to Icebreaker, I recommend starting with the Oasis 200 crew top (women’s)(men’s) and the Oasis 200 Thermal leggings (women’s)(men’s).

7) 25% off all Rumpl Blankets

Rumpl makes awesome camping blankets. I’ve been using the 2-person, original puffy as my comforter in my Sprinter Van for years. They are very durable (standing up to my 2 dogs), shake off easily, and can be thrown in the washing machine when they need a refresh. Rumpl blankets come in different sizes and prints, all of which are 25% off.

8) 25% off NEMO Tensor Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad

If you’ve struggled to find a comfortable sleeping pad for backpacking, I encourage you to try the NEMO Tensor Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad, which is currently 25% off. It’s 3.5 inches thick, and it has a valve that allows you to adjust the amount of air inside so you get just the right firmness. With an R-value of 5.4, you can rely on this even in the colder months. And to top it off, it’s incredibly easy to blow up thanks to the inflation sack that it comes with.

9) 20% off Kahtoola Traction Systems

If you get nervous walking on ice in the winter, you have to get a pair of Kahtoola Microspikes which are 20% off during the REI Winter Sale. When I feel ice on the trail, I just slip these on over my boots, and I instantly feel so much safer and more confident. When you’re buying them, double check the sizing since you’ll want to get a bigger size if you are using them over bulkier winter boots.

10) 25% off all Cotopaxi Clothing and Accessories

I’ve got a few Cotopaxi pieces that I really love, and all Cotopaxi apparel is 25% during the sale. I want to give a special shoutout to the Cotopaxi Tech 5-Panel Hat. I got this hat last summer, and it’s become a staple. It’s so light, I hardly notice I’m wearing it, and the brim doesn’t block my vision when I’m hiking. It’s also very breathable, even in the muggiest climates.

11) 25% off all Biolite Lighting

If you’re looking for a way to add some ambiance to your campsite, all Biolite lighting is 25% off. They make some compact, portable lanterns, and I really love the Biolite 325 Headlamp. I’m actually not sure why this headlamp doesn’t get better reviews, because I’ve been using it for years without any issues. I love how easy the strap is to adjust, it’s very light, and the charge easily lasts a 4-night backpacking trip as long as you aren’t using it on the highest setting.

12) 20% off Strider Balance Bikes

If you’ve got a little tyke like me, my son Herbie who is almost 2, loves cruising around on his Strider Balance Bike, which is 20% off. Not only is it fun, but he’s learning how to balance, so when it’s time to graduate to a real bike, the transition will be much easier. The seat and handlebars are fully adjustable, so the bike can grow with your little one.

13) 25% off all Sea to Summit Cook Gear

Sea to Summit makes great collapsible cooking gear that can save space in your pack or camping bins. It’s all 25% right now too! I have some of their silicone collapsible pots that are great for backpacking, and I’ve been eyeing their dinnerware for my new truck camper.

14) 25% off all MSR Stoves and Cookware

In the above photo, I’m cooking on the MSR Pocket Rocket 2, which at 2.6 ounces is one of the lightest backpacking stoves out there. This stove and all other MSR stoves and cooking gear is 25% off.

15) 30% off all REI Brand Travel Gear

All REI travel gear is 30% off. I have two pieces of REI luggage that I use on a majority of my trips. The first is the REI Co-op Big Haul 28L Duffel which is my choice for short weekend trips. I also use it daily in the winter to keep all of my ski accesories organized in my car.

I also have the REI Co-op Big Haul 30″ Wheeled Duffel which is one of the toughest roller bags I’ve owned. It’s got a rugged, water-resistant exterior and really durable wheels that can withstand bumpy roads and being dragged over curbs.

What’s on your wishlist for the REI Winter Sale? Leave a note in the comments below!

The post 2024 REI Winter Sale: These are the 15 Best Deals! appeared first on Bearfoot Theory.

2024 REI Winter Sale: These are the 15 Best Deals!

Every November, the REI has a huge winter sale that I think is one of their best sales of the year. This year’s sale is taking place November 15-25, and it’s a great time to stock up on winter gear, holiday gifts, or outdoor products that you want for next summer.

In this post, I’ve scoured the REI website and handpicked the best REI Winter Sale deals with discounts up to 40% off. Everything I recommend here I’ve personally tried.

If you’re an REI Member, you can also save 20% off one-full priced item and an extra 20% of one REI Outlet Item using the code WINTER24. If you’re not a REI Co-op Member already, here are 12 reasons why you should join!

1) 30% off All REI Clothing and Accessories

All REI Co-op Brand Clothing is 30% off. I’ve worn a lot of different REI apparel over the years, and here are a few of my favorite pieces that are worth checking out during the sale:

2) 30% off All REI Camping and Hiking Gear

If you’re looking to get a new tent or other big ticket item, all REI Co-op Brand Hiking and Camping Gear is 30% off. Here is some of my favorite REI gear to check out:

3. $100 Off Garmin inReach Mini 2

If you’ve been following me for a while, you’ve heard me talk about the Garmin Mini 2. I think it’s a MUST for anyone who likes to get out in the backcountry where there isn’t cell service. It can be used to send and receive texts or to call for help if you have an emergency. I’ve even used it to get roadside assistance when my Sprinter Van battery died outside of Sun Valley one winter.

4. 25% off all Oboz Footwear

I’m a huge fan of Oboz Footwear, so I’m excited to see that every Oboz model is 25% off during the REI Winter Sale (both men’s and women’s). I’m especially fond of the Katabatic for fast and light summer hiking and the Insulated Bridger for winter. If you need help deciding which Oboz model is right for you, check out this post on the Oboz models I use most frequently.

5. 25% off All Outdoor Research Outerwear

I have two Outdoor Research jackets that I’m especially fond of and all Outdoor Research outerwear is 25% off (with the exception of ski jackets) in the REI Winter Sale. Check out these two:

6) 25% off all Icebreaker Clothing

I’m a huge fan of Icebreaker. They make my all-time favorite merino wool base layers for winter hiking and skiing, and I also have a few their sweaters that are so soft and comfortable. However, Icebreaker clothing tends to be pricey, so I always jump at the chance to grab a new piece when they are on sale. During the REI Winter Sale, all Icebreaker clothing is 25% off. If you’re new to Icebreaker, I recommend starting with the Oasis 200 crew top (women’s)(men’s) and the Oasis 200 Thermal leggings (women’s)(men’s).

7) 25% off all Rumpl Blankets

Rumpl makes awesome camping blankets. I’ve been using the 2-person, original puffy as my comforter in my Sprinter Van for years. They are very durable (standing up to my 2 dogs), shake off easily, and can be thrown in the washing machine when they need a refresh. Rumpl blankets come in different sizes and prints, all of which are 25% off.

8) 25% off NEMO Tensor Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad

If you’ve struggled to find a comfortable sleeping pad for backpacking, I encourage you to try the NEMO Tensor Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad, which is currently 25% off. It’s 3.5 inches thick, and it has a valve that allows you to adjust the amount of air inside so you get just the right firmness. With an R-value of 5.4, you can rely on this even in the colder months. And to top it off, it’s incredibly easy to blow up thanks to the inflation sack that it comes with.

9) 20% off Kahtoola Traction Systems

If you get nervous walking on ice in the winter, you have to get a pair of Kahtoola Microspikes which are 20% off during the REI Winter Sale. When I feel ice on the trail, I just slip these on over my boots, and I instantly feel so much safer and more confident. When you’re buying them, double check the sizing since you’ll want to get a bigger size if you are using them over bulkier winter boots.

10) 25% off all Cotopaxi Clothing and Accessories

I’ve got a few Cotopaxi pieces that I really love, and all Cotopaxi apparel is 25% during the sale. I want to give a special shoutout to the Cotopaxi Tech 5-Panel Hat. I got this hat last summer, and it’s become a staple. It’s so light, I hardly notice I’m wearing it, and the brim doesn’t block my vision when I’m hiking. It’s also very breathable, even in the muggiest climates.

11) 25% off all Biolite Lighting

If you’re looking for a way to add some ambiance to your campsite, all Biolite lighting is 25% off. They make some compact, portable lanterns, and I really love the Biolite 325 Headlamp. I’m actually not sure why this headlamp doesn’t get better reviews, because I’ve been using it for years without any issues. I love how easy the strap is to adjust, it’s very light, and the charge easily lasts a 4-night backpacking trip as long as you aren’t using it on the highest setting.

12) 20% off Strider Balance Bikes

If you’ve got a little tyke like me, my son Herbie who is almost 2, loves cruising around on his Strider Balance Bike, which is 20% off. Not only is it fun, but he’s learning how to balance, so when it’s time to graduate to a real bike, the transition will be much easier. The seat and handlebars are fully adjustable, so the bike can grow with your little one.

13) 25% off all Sea to Summit Cook Gear

Sea to Summit makes great collapsible cooking gear that can save space in your pack or camping bins. It’s all 25% right now too! I have some of their silicone collapsible pots that are great for backpacking, and I’ve been eyeing their dinnerware for my new truck camper.

14) 25% off all MSR Stoves and Cookware

In the above photo, I’m cooking on the MSR Pocket Rocket 2, which at 2.6 ounces is one of the lightest backpacking stoves out there. This stove and all other MSR stoves and cooking gear is 25% off.

15) 30% off all REI Brand Travel Gear

All REI travel gear is 30% off. I have two pieces of REI luggage that I use on a majority of my trips. The first is the REI Co-op Big Haul 28L Duffel which is my choice for short weekend trips. I also use it daily in the winter to keep all of my ski accesories organized in my car.

I also have the REI Co-op Big Haul 30″ Wheeled Duffel which is one of the toughest roller bags I’ve owned. It’s got a rugged, water-resistant exterior and really durable wheels that can withstand bumpy roads and being dragged over curbs.

What’s on your wishlist for the REI Winter Sale? Leave a note in the comments below!

The post 2024 REI Winter Sale: These are the 15 Best Deals! appeared first on Bearfoot Theory.

How Live in a Van as a Couple: Tips for Maintaining Harmony

When my partner Ryan and I first moved into a van together, we quickly learned that living in a tiny space together — just the two of us and our stuff (plus a dog)— brought new challenges to our relationship. Privacy became a rare luxury, and at times the van, though cozy, felt very cramped.

Navigating van life with a significant other is both beautiful and challenging. There are amazing moments—like watching sunsets from bed and laughing over quirky van life mishaps—but it also takes effort. Setting boundaries, communicating well, and finding ways to balance time together and apart are essential. Over time, Ryand I found a rhythm that works, and it’s brought us closer in ways I hadn’t expected.

In this post, I’ll share what I’ve learned about keeping your relationship strong when you are a couple living in a van.

1. Be Willing to Compromise

Being willing to compromise is the #1 most important thing you need to do to make van life work as a couple. In a tiny space, you quickly realize that you can’t have everything your way—not if you want peace and harmony. Ryan and I have had to learn when to push for what’s important and when to let the little things go.

For example, some days I’m set on hitting a hiking trail, while Ryan has his sights on a mountain bike ride. Instead of clashing, we find ways to make it work. Sometimes we split up for the morning and then meet back at the van for lunch, or we take turns picking our activities.

Every choice in van life becomes a shared decision, from daily plans to where we’ll park for the night. Sometimes I get my way, and other times Ryan gets his. Compromise keeps the peace and means that we both get we want – just not always at the same time.

2. Respect your partner’s priorities

Respecting each other’s priorities is essential. If you don’t, you surely won’t last long as a couple in a van.

In our case, I have to make time to work and run my business. I also like to carve out a few quiet moments for meditation, and I absolutely cannot sleep if the van isn’t perfectly flat. For Ryan, coffee is a non-negotiable; he doesn’t like driving anywhere until he’s had his morning brew. Balancing these needs takes a little planning and a mutual respect.

We’ve learned to accommodate each other’s priorities by building them into our days. If we’re moving early, we make sure we have enough time for Ryan to get his coffee, and I’ll find a quiet moment to meditate before we hit the road. When it’s time to park, we both keep an eye out for level ground so I can sleep comfortably. Then when I need to work, Ryan takes the dogs out so I can focus.

Respecting these little but important things for each other not only keeps our routine smooth but shows that we’re both invested in making van life enjoyable for each other. These small gestures of respect go a long way toward keeping us both happy and balanced on the road.

3. Communicate Clearly & Effectively

This probably sounds obvious, but communication has been the cornerstone of making our van life relationship work. It’s not like a house where when you have a fight, you can escape to another room. So in order to maintain a happy home on wheels, it’s important to be able to put out fires before they get too big.

The reality is that things can get tense—especially when you’re tired, hungry, or just can’t find a good spot to park for the night. We’ve had our share of snippy exchanges, but learning to communicate openly and calmly has made all the difference.

We are far from perfect, but over the years, we’ve learned what each other’s triggers are, and we try to take a breather if things start to get heated. Sometimes it’s better to just let things go, especially if what you are arguing about isn’t all that important.

4. Take Time for Yourself

Living on the road doesn’t leave a lot of room for alone time, but it’s crucial. Spending so much time together really can be wonderful, but without moments to recharge on your own, it’s possible to feel a bit claustrophobic or like you are losing yourself.

Alone time helps us maintain our individuality. We are different people and have our own interests that need to be tended to. It doesn’t have to be much — a quick solo walk or a half-hour outside with a book or a podcast is enough. These small breaks give me space to clear my mind and allow us to fully appreciate each other’s company for the other 23.5 hours a day that we are together.

5. Split the chores

One thing we quickly learned was how important it is to share the workload. Van life involves a surprising amount of chores and upkeep, from cleaning and cooking to organizing and fixing things on the fly. Ryan loves organizing our van’s garage, while I usually handle things like making the bed and tidying up the front. Ryan also takes charge of dinner, and I usually clean up afterward (unless I’m busy working on my blog).

By dividing tasks, we avoid the constant back-and-forth of “who’s turn is it?” and we both get to focus on the parts we enjoy most. Having a clear division of labor has made life on the road a lot smoother.

6. Stay Connected with the Outside World

While it’s great to share the journey closely with your significant other, having a social life on the road brings fresh energy to your relationship. We love visiting friends and family whenever possible, attending festivals and events, and camping with other van lifers. These connections help us avoid isolation and prevent us from relying solely on each other for social interaction.

7. Have Fun!

Ultimately, we got into van life because we wanted to share incredible experiences together, and it’s important not to lose sight of that. Even when we’re spending every day side-by-side, we try to make time for the things that bring us both joy. For us, that might be watching the sunset from a cozy spot or planning our next big hike.

Van life isn’t conventional, and it’s definitely not for everyone. But if you can find ways to respect each other’s needs and communicate effectively, van life as a couple will likely be one of your greatest adventures together.

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What is the best thing about living van life with your significant other? What is the most challenging thing? Share your questions, tips, and experiences down in the comments.

The post How Live in a Van as a Couple: Tips for Maintaining Harmony appeared first on Bearfoot Theory.

How Live in a Van as a Couple: Tips for Maintaining Harmony

When my partner Ryan and I first moved into a van together, we quickly learned that living in a tiny space together — just the two of us and our stuff (plus a dog)— brought new challenges to our relationship. Privacy became a rare luxury, and at times the van, though cozy, felt very cramped.

Navigating van life with a significant other is both beautiful and challenging. There are amazing moments—like watching sunsets from bed and laughing over quirky van life mishaps—but it also takes effort. Setting boundaries, communicating well, and finding ways to balance time together and apart are essential. Over time, Ryand I found a rhythm that works, and it’s brought us closer in ways I hadn’t expected.

In this post, I’ll share what I’ve learned about keeping your relationship strong when you are a couple living in a van.

1. Be Willing to Compromise

Being willing to compromise is the #1 most important thing you need to do to make van life work as a couple. In a tiny space, you quickly realize that you can’t have everything your way—not if you want peace and harmony. Ryan and I have had to learn when to push for what’s important and when to let the little things go.

For example, some days I’m set on hitting a hiking trail, while Ryan has his sights on a mountain bike ride. Instead of clashing, we find ways to make it work. Sometimes we split up for the morning and then meet back at the van for lunch, or we take turns picking our activities.

Every choice in van life becomes a shared decision, from daily plans to where we’ll park for the night. Sometimes I get my way, and other times Ryan gets his. Compromise keeps the peace and means that we both get we want – just not always at the same time.

2. Respect your partner’s priorities

Respecting each other’s priorities is essential. If you don’t, you surely won’t last long as a couple in a van.

In our case, I have to make time to work and run my business. I also like to carve out a few quiet moments for meditation, and I absolutely cannot sleep if the van isn’t perfectly flat. For Ryan, coffee is a non-negotiable; he doesn’t like driving anywhere until he’s had his morning brew. Balancing these needs takes a little planning and a mutual respect.

We’ve learned to accommodate each other’s priorities by building them into our days. If we’re moving early, we make sure we have enough time for Ryan to get his coffee, and I’ll find a quiet moment to meditate before we hit the road. When it’s time to park, we both keep an eye out for level ground so I can sleep comfortably. Then when I need to work, Ryan takes the dogs out so I can focus.

Respecting these little but important things for each other not only keeps our routine smooth but shows that we’re both invested in making van life enjoyable for each other. These small gestures of respect go a long way toward keeping us both happy and balanced on the road.

3. Communicate Clearly & Effectively

This probably sounds obvious, but communication has been the cornerstone of making our van life relationship work. It’s not like a house where when you have a fight, you can escape to another room. So in order to maintain a happy home on wheels, it’s important to be able to put out fires before they get too big.

The reality is that things can get tense—especially when you’re tired, hungry, or just can’t find a good spot to park for the night. We’ve had our share of snippy exchanges, but learning to communicate openly and calmly has made all the difference.

We are far from perfect, but over the years, we’ve learned what each other’s triggers are, and we try to take a breather if things start to get heated. Sometimes it’s better to just let things go, especially if what you are arguing about isn’t all that important.

4. Take Time for Yourself

Living on the road doesn’t leave a lot of room for alone time, but it’s crucial. Spending so much time together really can be wonderful, but without moments to recharge on your own, it’s possible to feel a bit claustrophobic or like you are losing yourself.

Alone time helps us maintain our individuality. We are different people and have our own interests that need to be tended to. It doesn’t have to be much — a quick solo walk or a half-hour outside with a book or a podcast is enough. These small breaks give me space to clear my mind and allow us to fully appreciate each other’s company for the other 23.5 hours a day that we are together.

5. Split the chores

One thing we quickly learned was how important it is to share the workload. Van life involves a surprising amount of chores and upkeep, from cleaning and cooking to organizing and fixing things on the fly. Ryan loves organizing our van’s garage, while I usually handle things like making the bed and tidying up the front. Ryan also takes charge of dinner, and I usually clean up afterward (unless I’m busy working on my blog).

By dividing tasks, we avoid the constant back-and-forth of “who’s turn is it?” and we both get to focus on the parts we enjoy most. Having a clear division of labor has made life on the road a lot smoother.

6. Stay Connected with the Outside World

While it’s great to share the journey closely with your significant other, having a social life on the road brings fresh energy to your relationship. We love visiting friends and family whenever possible, attending festivals and events, and camping with other van lifers. These connections help us avoid isolation and prevent us from relying solely on each other for social interaction.

7. Have Fun!

Ultimately, we got into van life because we wanted to share incredible experiences together, and it’s important not to lose sight of that. Even when we’re spending every day side-by-side, we try to make time for the things that bring us both joy. For us, that might be watching the sunset from a cozy spot or planning our next big hike.

Van life isn’t conventional, and it’s definitely not for everyone. But if you can find ways to respect each other’s needs and communicate effectively, van life as a couple will likely be one of your greatest adventures together.

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What is the best thing about living van life with your significant other? What is the most challenging thing? Share your questions, tips, and experiences down in the comments.

The post How Live in a Van as a Couple: Tips for Maintaining Harmony appeared first on Bearfoot Theory.

How Live in a Van as a Couple: Tips for Maintaining Harmony

When my partner Ryan and I first moved into a van together, we quickly learned that living in a tiny space together — just the two of us and our stuff (plus a dog)— brought new challenges to our relationship. Privacy became a rare luxury, and at times the van, though cozy, felt very cramped.

Navigating van life with a significant other is both beautiful and challenging. There are amazing moments—like watching sunsets from bed and laughing over quirky van life mishaps—but it also takes effort. Setting boundaries, communicating well, and finding ways to balance time together and apart are essential. Over time, Ryand I found a rhythm that works, and it’s brought us closer in ways I hadn’t expected.

In this post, I’ll share what I’ve learned about keeping your relationship strong when you are a couple living in a van.

1. Be Willing to Compromise

Being willing to compromise is the #1 most important thing you need to do to make van life work as a couple. In a tiny space, you quickly realize that you can’t have everything your way—not if you want peace and harmony. Ryan and I have had to learn when to push for what’s important and when to let the little things go.

For example, some days I’m set on hitting a hiking trail, while Ryan has his sights on a mountain bike ride. Instead of clashing, we find ways to make it work. Sometimes we split up for the morning and then meet back at the van for lunch, or we take turns picking our activities.

Every choice in van life becomes a shared decision, from daily plans to where we’ll park for the night. Sometimes I get my way, and other times Ryan gets his. Compromise keeps the peace and means that we both get we want – just not always at the same time.

2. Respect your partner’s priorities

Respecting each other’s priorities is essential. If you don’t, you surely won’t last long as a couple in a van.

In our case, I have to make time to work and run my business. I also like to carve out a few quiet moments for meditation, and I absolutely cannot sleep if the van isn’t perfectly flat. For Ryan, coffee is a non-negotiable; he doesn’t like driving anywhere until he’s had his morning brew. Balancing these needs takes a little planning and a mutual respect.

We’ve learned to accommodate each other’s priorities by building them into our days. If we’re moving early, we make sure we have enough time for Ryan to get his coffee, and I’ll find a quiet moment to meditate before we hit the road. When it’s time to park, we both keep an eye out for level ground so I can sleep comfortably. Then when I need to work, Ryan takes the dogs out so I can focus.

Respecting these little but important things for each other not only keeps our routine smooth but shows that we’re both invested in making van life enjoyable for each other. These small gestures of respect go a long way toward keeping us both happy and balanced on the road.

3. Communicate Clearly & Effectively

This probably sounds obvious, but communication has been the cornerstone of making our van life relationship work. It’s not like a house where when you have a fight, you can escape to another room. So in order to maintain a happy home on wheels, it’s important to be able to put out fires before they get too big.

The reality is that things can get tense—especially when you’re tired, hungry, or just can’t find a good spot to park for the night. We’ve had our share of snippy exchanges, but learning to communicate openly and calmly has made all the difference.

We are far from perfect, but over the years, we’ve learned what each other’s triggers are, and we try to take a breather if things start to get heated. Sometimes it’s better to just let things go, especially if what you are arguing about isn’t all that important.

4. Take Time for Yourself

Living on the road doesn’t leave a lot of room for alone time, but it’s crucial. Spending so much time together really can be wonderful, but without moments to recharge on your own, it’s possible to feel a bit claustrophobic or like you are losing yourself.

Alone time helps us maintain our individuality. We are different people and have our own interests that need to be tended to. It doesn’t have to be much — a quick solo walk or a half-hour outside with a book or a podcast is enough. These small breaks give me space to clear my mind and allow us to fully appreciate each other’s company for the other 23.5 hours a day that we are together.

5. Split the chores

One thing we quickly learned was how important it is to share the workload. Van life involves a surprising amount of chores and upkeep, from cleaning and cooking to organizing and fixing things on the fly. Ryan loves organizing our van’s garage, while I usually handle things like making the bed and tidying up the front. Ryan also takes charge of dinner, and I usually clean up afterward (unless I’m busy working on my blog).

By dividing tasks, we avoid the constant back-and-forth of “who’s turn is it?” and we both get to focus on the parts we enjoy most. Having a clear division of labor has made life on the road a lot smoother.

6. Stay Connected with the Outside World

While it’s great to share the journey closely with your significant other, having a social life on the road brings fresh energy to your relationship. We love visiting friends and family whenever possible, attending festivals and events, and camping with other van lifers. These connections help us avoid isolation and prevent us from relying solely on each other for social interaction.

7. Have Fun!

Ultimately, we got into van life because we wanted to share incredible experiences together, and it’s important not to lose sight of that. Even when we’re spending every day side-by-side, we try to make time for the things that bring us both joy. For us, that might be watching the sunset from a cozy spot or planning our next big hike.

Van life isn’t conventional, and it’s definitely not for everyone. But if you can find ways to respect each other’s needs and communicate effectively, van life as a couple will likely be one of your greatest adventures together.

Save this post to Pinterest

What is the best thing about living van life with your significant other? What is the most challenging thing? Share your questions, tips, and experiences down in the comments.

The post How Live in a Van as a Couple: Tips for Maintaining Harmony appeared first on Bearfoot Theory.