Van-dwelling

Van-dwelling, van life, or vanlife is an unconventional lifestyle of living in a car, van, or other motor vehicle. A person who lives in such a manner, either on a full or part-time basis, is known as a vanlifer, van dweller, car dweller, or vehicle dweller. People who live this way by choice are typically seeking a more self-sufficient lifestyle characterized by freedom and mobility. They may perceive it as being a less regulated form of housing, or one that offers a lower cost advantage over standard housing, especially in regions susceptible to housing shortages, but in turn incurs car costs. Other vehicle dwellers may be on the verge of homelessness or living in a homeless shelter, with their vehicle serving as their only source of shelter and permanent residence.

In the late 2010s, an idealized version was popularized through social media with the hashtag #vanlife, which gained significant momentum during the COVID-19 pandemic.