The beauty of vanlife is that it strips away many of life’s financial pressures — but it doesn’t eliminate the need for money entirely. That’s why having a flexible, road-ready side hustle is essential.
Luckily, you don’t need a full office or high-speed fiber internet to earn a living from your van. From content creation to ecommerce to service-based gigs, there are dozens of low-footprint, high-flexibility side hustles built for nomads.
This guide explores 12 remote-friendly side hustles that vanlifers can start with little gear, reliable Wi-Fi, and a desire to keep rolling.
1. Freelance Writing or Editing
If you enjoy storytelling or have niche knowledge (like travel, minimalism, or tech), writing is a natural fit for life on the road.
You can write blog content, SEO articles, product descriptions, or edit newsletters. It’s all doable from your van — no storefront or stock required.
Use job boards like ProBlogger, Contena, or Upwork to find clients. Many vanlifers build this into a sustainable full-time income.
2. Sell Photos or Videos from Your Travels
That beautiful mountain sunrise or winding forest road could earn you money. Platforms like Adobe Stock, Shutterstock, and Unsplash pay for travel content that brands, bloggers, and businesses use.
Use a decent camera or even a high-end phone. Tag locations, use good lighting, and focus on lifestyle or nature shots.
Bonus: Reuse content across Instagram, YouTube, and your blog to build a personal brand at the same time.
3. Become a Virtual Assistant
Help entrepreneurs, coaches, or small business owners with scheduling, inbox management, customer support, or social media — all from your van.
Virtual assistant roles are flexible and often pay $25–$50/hour. You only need a laptop, reliable internet, and strong communication.
Use sites like Belay, Zirtual, or start by offering services through Facebook groups or DMs.
4. Sell Digital Products (Planners, Templates, eBooks)
Once created, digital products sell endlessly with zero physical storage — a dream for vanlifers with limited space.
Popular options:
Printable travel planners
Van conversion checklists
Budgeting spreadsheets
eBooks about your vanlife journey
Use Etsy, Gumroad, or Shopify to host. Promote through your social channels or blog.
5. Affiliate Marketing for Travel Gear
Love your solar panel setup? Can’t live without your camp stove or composting toilet? Review it.
Start a blog, TikTok, or YouTube channel and link to gear with affiliate programs. Amazon Associates, REI, or niche outdoor brands offer payouts per purchase.
This method compounds over time — especially if you publish evergreen reviews or how-to content.
6. Remote Customer Support Roles
Many companies hire remote reps for email, chat, or phone support. These roles are stable, pay hourly, and often come with flexible shifts.
Make sure you have decent Wi-Fi or access to co-working spaces if needed. These jobs are great for structured workers who enjoy helping others.
Check job boards like Remote OK or Support Driven.
7. Offer Van Build or Travel Consultations
Once you’ve lived the lifestyle, you’re an expert. Newbies are eager to learn about van conversions, routes, budgeting, or solo travel safety.
Offer paid consultations via Zoom or write up premium guides to sell on Gumroad. A few $50 calls each month can make a real impact on your fuel fund.
Build authority through Reddit, Instagram, or YouTube — the community loves transparency and sharing.
8. Teach Online Classes or Tutoring
If you have a background in education, tutoring, or coaching, take it online. Teach English with Cambly, tutor math on Wyzant, or offer creative classes through Teachable.
This hustle is perfect for consistent scheduling and supplemental income. Many platforms require just a laptop, headset, and stable internet.
It’s rewarding, predictable, and pairs well with slower travel paces.
9. Resell Thrifted or Handmade Items
You’ll come across thrift stores, markets, or local makers as you travel. Flip valuable finds on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Poshmark — just be mindful of your storage limits.
Alternatively, craft small handmade goods (like jewelry or macrame) that pack flat and ship easily.
This side hustle is ideal for hands-on vanlifers who like scouting and creating.
10. Blog About Your Journey (and Monetize It)
Documenting your travels can turn into a business. Start with a free blog, post regularly, and share useful resources: packing lists, gear reviews, van conversion photos, campsite tips.
Monetization can come from:
Display ads (e.g., Ezoic)
Affiliate links
Sponsored posts
Your own products
Over time, this builds audience trust — and passive income.
11. Do Contract Design or Coding Work
Got skills in web design, UX/UI, or development? Turn them into freelance gigs. These projects often pay well and can be done asynchronously.
Specialize in landing pages, logos, or front-end fixes. Find clients via Dribbble, Behance, Twitter, or networking in remote-first communities.
Pair work weeks with slower travel stretches for a nice work/life balance.
12. Host Workshops or Experiences in Unique Locations
If you stay in one spot for a while, offer local experiences — guided hikes, sunrise yoga, travel photography, or vanlife Q&As.
Use Airbnb Experiences, Meetup, or create your own landing page. Combine this with content creation to double your income streams.
This hustle connects you with fellow travelers while grounding you in each new location.
Final Thoughts
Vanlife isn’t about escaping work — it’s about redefining it. The best side hustles for vanlifers blend flexibility, creativity, and independence. Whether you’re parked in the mountains or beachside, you can build meaningful income that supports your journey — and your freedom.
Start with one hustle that fits your bandwidth and gear. Then let it grow naturally, mile by mile.
Frank
