Van life journal · Updated October 1, 2026
E-150 inspection notes and a revised rebuild plan
New inspection photos, a still-unresolved lighting fault, and a changed direction: insulation, a projector, LEDs, fold-out tables, and separate house power.
Notes from Nomad Mac
Thinking out loud about the road ahead.
This is where I share what I'm considering, what I learn, and what changes my mind. I'm starting with the questions before the van purchase. Actual build and trip reports will come only if and when they happen.
Planning note · September 2026
Why I'm looking at van life
After twenty years in the Army, I want more freedom to spend time in nature and see places at my own pace. Van life interests me because it might make short, simple trips possible while I keep my apartment.
I'm still at the research stage. I haven't bought a van. The vehicle comparisons and build budgets I'm working through are experiments: ways to see what might be comfortable, affordable, and practical before I make a decision.
The longer road still points toward Southeast Asia. That goal led me to build the country guides and planning tools on this site. Exploring van life now doesn't erase it; it's another part of figuring out this chapter.
I share the process because I enjoy it, and because a useful question or an honest mistake might help someone else. I'll keep research, estimates, actual purchases, and lived experience clearly labeled as the story develops.
See my current van research → · Explore Southeast Asia planning →