Van life is all about freedom–until you’re fumbling in the dark, desperate for a shower, or facing the real wilderness (a toilet-free campsite). From lighting to loo breaks, these eight innovative gadgets keep things… civilised.
1: Scrubba Stealth Pack Sometimes someone comes out with a simple product that borders on genius. Sometimes they follow up with something even better. The Scrubba is a genius little dry bag-turned-washboard that’s as simple as it gets: fill it with clothes, water, and detergent and boom–fresh laundry in minutes. This Stealth Pack version goes even further, adding backpack straps and a portable shower. thescrubba.com
2: Glassy Nordic waterproof seat cover At best, Van Life is freedom and epic sunsets. At worst, you’re in an abusive relationship… with your van. Sand, mud, spills, cookie crumbs – your upholstery takes the hit every time. You say you’re going to change… but will you? Will YOU? It’s ok. Tough, waterproof, and stylish, the Nordic Waterproof Seat Cover is here to save your relationship. glassyeurope.com
3: Q Camping Lamp More than just a light, this pocket-sized powerhouse is your rechargeable adventure buddy. Q packs a punch with three brightness levels, flashlight, and SOS mode. The magnetic base and elastic strap mean you can mount it (almost) anywhere – no hands required. Wrapped in a sleek Frozen Gray aluminum body and IPX4 water-resistant, it's as tough as it is stylish. campolibre.eu
4: Stitches +Steel Camp Chair Two S+S are a UK based outfit specialising in VW van conversions and campervan accessories. Camp Chair Two is a timeless addition to have stashed in your vehicle. Beachside culture and lounge luxury mixed with a sprinkling of weight saving and packable tech. Embrace the smugness of turning those sunset beers up to 11. stitchesandsteel.com
5: Omnia Oven This Swedish-engineered wonder turns any stove into a baking powerhouse. It’s basically a cake tin with attitude, using a clever three-part design to distribute heat like a real oven. Pop it on a camping stove or other heat source and voilá – instant oven. If you can do it in a regular oven - heat, bake or cook - you can do it in an Omnia. omniasweden.com
6: Tiger Repel Tropical Mosquito Spray Nothing ruins a summer evening or a tropical getaway faster than mosquitoes. Sticky chemical sprays and overpowering scents don’t make things any better. That’s where Defence Max - Tiger Repel comes in. This mosquito spray ditches DEET in favor of Citriodiol (a natural eucalyptus extract) and lavender, so you smell more like a spa than a science experiment. tigerrepel.fr
7: Nemo Helio Pressure Shower We have a love-hate relationship with traditional solar showers. We love the sun-warmed water; we hate the weak water pressure and the hassle of finding the perfect tree limb to suspend a heavy water bag from. Enter the Nemo Helio, a solar shower that actually feels like a real shower. This genius contraption sits on the ground and delivers steady, pressurised water with a simple foot pump, holding a very generous 11 litres of water. nemoequipment.com
8: Boxio Compost Toilet Bridging the gap between a proper toilet and a squat in the forest, the Boxio is a sustainable, and compact composting toilet. Its interior separator keeps liquids and solids apart, significantly reducing odors without the need for chemicals. The solids container is lined with a biodegradable bag, while the liquid and odor binder—hemp husk—ensures a natural, eco-friendly solution. boxio.fr
Related articles
