Embracing the Road: 10 Essential Items for Photographers Living the Vanlife
10 Essential Items for Photographers Living the Vanlife
From power stations to coffee makers — the gear that keeps me shooting on the road
Photographers and vanlife — a match made in heaven.
Vanlife offers photographers endless chances to immerse themselves in breathtaking landscapes, capture unique moments, and embody the true spirit of freedom while traveling. If you need more convincing, read our Tuscany Vanlife Adventure! Regardless of whether you're a professional landscape photographer or simply a passionate hobbyist, equipping yourself with the right tools can enrich your vanlife journey and help you craft awe-inspiring photographs that tell your unique story.
Here's my comprehensive list of 10 essential items (plus a few bonuses) tailored to photographers embracing the vanlife way of living. Dive in — I've curated this with your photographic adventures in mind.
1. EcoFlow portable power station — the landscape photographer's best friend
The EcoFlow DELTA 2 — keeping the lights on, wherever the road takes you.
For landscape photographers like us, ensuring our equipment stays powered up is absolutely essential, especially when out in the field capturing stunning shots. A reliable portable power station is a must-have tool, guaranteeing that our cameras, laptops, and other devices remain fully charged and ready to go. When selecting a power station, it's vital to opt for one with high capacity and multiple outlets, catering to the diverse power needs of our gear — whether it's drones, lights, or various chargers. With the right power station by our side, we can focus on our craft without worrying about running out of battery.
It's also important to calculate the total amount of power your gear needs. I recently upgraded to the EcoFlow DELTA 2 portable power station and it's been a total game changer. This unit gives me the juice I need to keep my laptop running for hours of editing, keep the fridge cold, and still have power left for all my camera batteries. To take it even further, I also added the EcoFlow 800W alternator charger — a small but mighty addition that keeps the battery topped up while I'm driving. I'll be sure to give a full review once I've really put it through its paces!
🌞 Quick Tip
Pair your power station with a solar panel for true off-grid freedom. More on that below!
2. EcoFlow solar panels — a must-have for vanlife and landscape photography
The EcoFlow 220W Bifacial Solar Panel — harnessing the sun's power for off-grid adventures.
Pairing your power station with solar panels is, in my opinion, a really smart way to ensure your energy supply remains sustainable and dependable. With solar panels, you can efficiently harness the sun's energy — and that's just cool (I may be showing my age). Being off-grid is one huge draw for me as a landscape photographer, and being able to keep your batteries charged from the sun means you can stay out longer and not have to return to a campsite for as long as the sun is shining.
Thankfully, the EcoFlow power station is compatible with their own solar panels, which takes all the guesswork out of wiring things up — because to be completely honest, the thought of trying to install and wire up the van scares the hell out of me. Perhaps that's something for a larger van down the road. We'll see if it can be done without blowing what little hair I have left back.
I recently upgraded to the EcoFlow 220W Portable Bifacial Solar Panel and I'm genuinely excited to test it properly. Between the larger capacity battery and the new solar panel, my off-grid vanlife landscape photography dreams are edging closer to reality.
3. Alpicool — the best portable 12V fridge for vanlife?
The Alpicool Y20 — a total game changer for keeping food fresh on the road.
As a landscape photographer who likes to get off the beaten path and explore remote locations for extended periods, a portable 12V fridge is truly essential. We've bought the very cheap 12V fridges from various shops in the past, and while they do work, they're only really good for short overnight trips. The fact they remain "always on" means the power they draw is just too much — at least for our small setup.
Recently we upgraded to an Alpicool Y20 20L and it's been a total game changer. Because it has a brain, it turns itself off when it reaches its set temperature and only turns back on to maintain that temperature. The power consumption is negligible compared to the cheaper models, and it's an absolute must for any vanlife adventure.
Also, for any film photographers out there, a portable fridge like this serves as a safe haven for storing delicate film rolls and other equipment that require specific temperature conditions. A multipurpose tool that guarantees the longevity and peak functionality of your gear.
4. Cooking equipment for vanlife — a simple overview
Ok, I love food. We all do. But living in such a small space requires some innovative thinking when it comes to prepping, cleaning, and maintaining your kitchen. Healthy nutrition fuels creativity and stamina. If you enjoy long hikes to get to your landscape photography locations, you'll need to be solidly fueled to get there — and back to the van.
You'll want to equip your van with a good portable stove and essential cooking utensils. Here are some key features to consider:
- Weight: Opt for lightweight equipment to avoid overloading your van.
- Stackable items: Nesting cookware sets are ideal — they take up less room.
- Collapsible items: Bowls, measuring cups, and other tools that collapse save space when not in use.
- Clattering: Use silicone bands or storage solutions to keep your utensils quiet while driving.
- Cleanability: Easy-to-clean materials make maintenance straightforward.
- Hard-wearing: Choose durable items — quality over quantity.
- Multi-function: A pot that doubles as a strainer or a spork instead of separate utensils saves space.
Orla and I have gone through many different types of camping stoves over the years. With the van being on the smaller side, the stove we have at the moment is just taking up too much space — it would be very comparable to this Camping Stove 6800W with Piezo Ignition. On the surface it may seem small, but when every inch counts, it's important to think creatively — much like the meals you cook and the compositions you choose.
We've turned our attention to single burner stoves and have opted for something along the lines of that one. One major upgrade we'd like to make is to get a Ridgemonkey Connect Compact Sandwich Toaster and a Zyliss Easy Pull Food Processor — you'd be surprised how impactful these small things can be.
With all that being said, fueling yourself is just as important as your camera batteries! Thomas Heaton recently shared this handy Gas Canister Refill Adapter — for when the cans are running low and you can't get anything out of them. Just combine one or two nearly empty ones and you can use up any leftovers. Super important for those of us on a budget!
5. Bed and bedding — a good night's sleep in your van
A good mattress makes all the difference — this one from Foam2Home is super comfortable.
Now, you might think this is an odd thing to see on a list of essential items for photographers living the vanlife, but hear me out. A restful sleep is crucial for setting the stage for a productive day of photography. It's worth investing in a comfortable mattress. At the moment we use a foam mattress, cut to size, from the Irish company Foam2Home and it is super comfortable. Adequate rest not only revitalizes your body but also sharpens your mind, enabling you to drag yourself out of bed without feeling like you want to die — capturing the golden hour's beauty or staying awake late into the night for stunning night photography.
I'm a big fan of the Huberman Podcast and can attest firsthand to how changing my sleep patterns has changed my life. Dr. Andrew Huberman emphasizes the importance of sleep for cognitive function and creativity. High-quality sleep enhances memory consolidation and problem-solving skills — both essential for photographers who need to plan shots, adapt to changing conditions, and continuously improve their craft.
6. Multi-tool and basic tool kit
The Leatherman Rev — the king of multi-tools.
A basic tool kit — you never know when you'll need it.
Ok, this one is pretty self explanatory. I don't know how many times having a multi-tool and some basic tools in the van has gotten us out of jams. From tightening up tripods to fixing things to the wall of the van — they're a must. Having these tools within reach can truly be a lifesaver, guaranteeing that your photographic escapades unfold seamlessly.
Hands down, the king of the multi-tool is the LEATHERMAN Rev — beautiful design and oh so functional! We also have something very comparable to this VonHaus Tool Kit — a neat and simple box full of all the things you might need to do patch-ups on the road.
7. Cleanliness is next to godliness — staying clean and keeping clean
So this topic might seem a bit out there, but picture this: you go out for a long hike and at the end of the trail there's an epic view. The catch is, the trail is filled with mud and long wet grass because the sun hasn't come up yet and everything is still wet and cold. You have to get through all this to make your landscape photography worth every step. So, you make it back to the van after getting the bucket list image, but you are head-to-toe covered in all sorts, and that morning coffee is moving through you swiftly! With all that said, think about these next two things.
As a nature photographer, a portable toilet proves to be a highly convenient and effective solution for handling bathroom needs — especially when embarking on extended photography expeditions in remote settings. While you're immersed in capturing breathtaking scenes, it's always best not to think about shitting in the woods or in a bag! Yes, we have done both. While you can DIY your own (which we have done in the past following very strict "LEAVE NO TRACE" practices), there are companies out there like BOXIO that make perfect little units that could suit you very nicely. But there are a huge range of options out there, so shop around for sure! If your space is limited like ours, a bag it is! Combine these strong biodegradable bags and super absorbent crystals to deal with everything and dispose of them safely in the bin. Wee jobbie done! 😜
A 12V portable shower is another indispensable item. Maintaining personal hygiene during long trips, especially in remote areas, can be challenging. A portable shower, powered by your van's 12V system, provides a convenient and effective way to stay clean and refreshed. The one we use is the PEILU 12V camping shower, and I couldn't recommend it enough. It's super easy to use and cheap!
8. Storage solutions — the vanlife dilemma
Organisers, bins, and collapsible containers — essential for vanlife.
Packing cubes — a game changer for keeping clothes organised.
Keep your camera gear safe and accessible.
So now we get into the weeds of it. Landscape photography at the best of times requires some proper organisation. Adding vanlife on top of this and you have now, my friends, entered a minefield of pressed plastic! It's so important to keep things in their place when living in a van. Systems need to be on-point if you need to grab something quick (think catching a breathtaking break in the clouds) because there are usually two other things that will need to be moved or opened before that one thing can actually be grabbed! Fun times!
Ensuring efficient storage solutions are in place is pivotal for effectively organising photography equipment. Leveraging various organisers, bins, and collapsible containers can aid in safeguarding your cameras, lenses, and accessories while keeping them effortlessly accessible. I won't bombard you with links here because everyone has their own ideas, needs, and of course, van size — so tailoring your storage to your own needs is the best option. I will of course help in any way I can, so please let me know if you'd like to know the specifics of what we use in our van.
For example, we'd never be without our packing cubes for our clothes, and I generally use my Shimoda camera bag to keep my gear safe in the van.
9. First aid kit — small but powerful
Safety is paramount when you're exploring new locations for the perfect shot. A comprehensive first aid kit is essential for handling minor injuries and emergencies. It's crucial to ensure that your kit includes a variety of items such as bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need. Having a well-prepared first aid kit will give you peace of mind as you embark on your photography adventures, allowing you to focus on capturing stunning images.
We have something very similar to this SHBC Compact First Aid Kit — it's a must-have.
10. Internet connection — staying online and connected
A good internet connection keeps you connected to the world — and your audience.
Working from the van — it's all about staying connected.
An often overlooked resource, a reliable internet connection is crucial for photographers. Whether you need to upload your latest shots to cloud storage, share your work on social media, communicate with clients, or research new locations, staying connected is key. Invest in a mobile hotspot with a robust data plan or a signal booster to ensure you have internet access even in remote areas.
The way we've done this is to simply stay with our mobile plan from Ireland. Vodafone Ireland has some really good deals and the net of their coverage is wide. We haven't run into any issues staying connected. At some point if we upgrade our van we might invest in a booster to make sure we're good — something along the lines of Falcon 4G Combo Mobile.
Having a good stable connection is key for both Orla and I. I create videos for YouTube all about landscape photography, so having a strong internet connection is even more critical. Uploading high-resolution videos can consume a significant amount of data and require a stable connection. A reliable internet setup ensures I can share my creative work with all you fine folks out there.
Additionally, if you or your partner, like Orla, work remotely and online, maintaining a reliable internet connection is essential for professional commitments. This enables you to handle work tasks, attend virtual meetings, and stay productive, ensuring that your vanlife adventure supports both your creative and professional endeavours. We have the extra benefit of having our own robust connections, so Orla can work away while I use my data for gaming… eh, I mean work :p and I won't slow her down and vice versa.
Some extra considerations
So, we've reached 10 essential items for photographers living the vanlife dream, but it wouldn't be fair if I didn't include a few extra bits and bobs too. If you made it this far into the post, here are some extra ones for you all!
Desk Mount: Ergotron LX Notebook and Dual Desk Mount — a simple solution to living in a small space!
Laptop: ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 Gaming Laptop — I have to give a shout out to my beastly partner in crime. This machine is pure power and I couldn't recommend it enough!
Coffee: Now if you know anything about me at all, you'll know that coffee is as much a love in my life as photography is. After all, I did work as a coffee roaster throughout my days here in Portugal, and having a good cup of coffee in the van is super important to making sure the photography is up to par. So, with that being said, the hand grinder we have is the KINGrinder K6 Manual Coffee Grinder — it's just wonderful, super easy, and covers all the grinding needs from espresso to French press. Our main brewer on the road is the Aeropress Clear Coffee Press and we also have a Bialetti New Venus Espresso Maker when we fancy a coffee with some milk.
The KINGrinder K6 — a coffee lover's essential.
The Aeropress — perfect for coffee on the road.
The Bialetti Venus — for when you want a proper espresso.
A compact washing line — laundry day just got easier.
A foldable laptop stand — comfort is key when you're working on the road.
Washing line: "Wash day tomorrow, nothing clean, right?" This handy compact washing line is super compact and easy to use, making the dreaded task of laundry day much easier to face!
Laptop stand: If like me, you also work from your van, you want to make sure you're comfortable while you stare at your laptop screen for half the day! This foldable laptop stand is perfect for space-saving. Folds up to nothing and can be brought into a cafe or wherever you need to set up.
In the end
For photographers, vanlife is about blending the art of photography with the freedom of the open road. Living on the road offers unparalleled opportunities to immerse yourself in diverse environments, allowing you to capture unique perspectives that you might not encounter otherwise. With these essential items, you'll be well-equipped to manage the practicalities of vanlife while focusing on your creative pursuits.
Embracing vanlife as a photographer is about more than just capturing beautiful images; it's about creating a lifestyle that supports and enhances your creative process. With the right preparation and equipment, you can turn your van into a mobile base of operations that supports your photographic endeavours and enriches your overall experience.
So, pack your gear, set up your van, and embark on a photographic journey that promises adventure, creativity, and the freedom to explore the world on your own terms!
🚐 Ready to take your vanlife photography to the next level?
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