The Freedom of Van Life: Mike and Trish's Journey in a Converted Horse Box
Living in a van may conjure images of freedom, adventure, and a cozy living space; for Mike and Trish, their life in a converted horse box embodies all of this and more. With a backdrop of nature and a lifestyle simplified to essentials, they've found a unique way to work, travel, and live.
The Transition to Van Life
Mike and Trish's journey into van living started with running a food truck. After a busy decade, including challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the couple decided it was time for a change. While Trish had dreamt of living in a van for years, they began their adventure by renting out their food business and hitting the road for some travel adventures.
After a couple of months wandering through scenic parts of the UK, they discovered their affinity for the van lifestyle. They packed up their lives into their trailer and parked it next to their food truck, deciding not to return to traditional living but rather embrace their new way of life. This set the foundation for what they now humorously refer to as their life as "van lifers."
The Unique Home They Built
Their home on wheels, affectionately named "M," is a converted horse box that has been modified to enhance its comfort and functionality. The couple bought the truck for £17,500, benefiting from pre-done work that allowed them to focus on personalizing it to suit their needs.
Mike enthusiastically shared details of their conversion: "The previous owners had done a lot of the work, but we extended the bed and added our own touches. The customizations have made it more homey and efficient for us." They revamped everything from the interior layout to the aesthetics, creating a space filled with charm.
Life Inside the Van
Living full-time in a van comes with its own set of conveniences and challenges. The couple transformed the horse box into a cozy abode, complete with a small kitchen, a comfortable double bed, and even a projector screen for movie nights. Although the living space is compact, the couple emphasizes how it's made them feel more connected to the outdoors.
“A significant part of living this way is the freedom it brings. We can have our door open, shower in nature, and enjoy time outside while being surrounded by beautiful landscapes,” Trish remarked. They have invested in features such as solar panels, a diesel heater, and a state-of-the-art water system to enhance their comfort.
Financial Freedom and Future Plans
One of the most appealing aspects of their lifestyle is the financial freedom it provides. With minimal expenses and a reduced need for a constant income, they can save approximately 95% of their wages. This has relieved a lot of pressure, allowing them to enjoy life more fully.
They’ve embraced a balance of work and travel, hinting at future plans for working six months and traveling for the next six. As they cement this lifestyle, they're eager to deepen their van adventures, venturing out to find new experiences across beautiful landscapes.
Community Feedback and Final Thoughts
Mike and Trish have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from those around them. Initially, there was skepticism—especially from family—about their decision to leave a stable business for a life on the road. However, as they continue to thrive, the couple emphasizes the importance of holding onto the mindset of resilience. “You only live once—if you have the drive to chase your dreams, you should go for it,” they urged.
In sharing their story, Mike and Trish highlight not just the physical journey of living in a van but the mental and emotional transformation that has come from embracing a lifestyle of minimalism, adventure, and freedom. As they invite others to explore their world, it’s clear that their journey is marked by joy, partnership, and independence.
In a world constantly saying no to flexibility, Mike and Trish have said yes to living their lives on their terms, surrounded by nature, love, and—most importantly—freedom.
Part 1/6:
The Freedom of Van Life: Mike and Trish's Journey in a Converted Horse Box
Living in a van may conjure images of freedom, adventure, and a cozy living space; for Mike and Trish, their life in a converted horse box embodies all of this and more. With a backdrop of nature and a lifestyle simplified to essentials, they've found a unique way to work, travel, and live.
The Transition to Van Life
Mike and Trish's journey into van living started with running a food truck. After a busy decade, including challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the couple decided it was time for a change. While Trish had dreamt of living in a van for years, they began their adventure by renting out their food business and hitting the road for some travel adventures.
Part 2/6:
After a couple of months wandering through scenic parts of the UK, they discovered their affinity for the van lifestyle. They packed up their lives into their trailer and parked it next to their food truck, deciding not to return to traditional living but rather embrace their new way of life. This set the foundation for what they now humorously refer to as their life as "van lifers."
The Unique Home They Built
Their home on wheels, affectionately named "M," is a converted horse box that has been modified to enhance its comfort and functionality. The couple bought the truck for £17,500, benefiting from pre-done work that allowed them to focus on personalizing it to suit their needs.
Part 3/6:
Mike enthusiastically shared details of their conversion: "The previous owners had done a lot of the work, but we extended the bed and added our own touches. The customizations have made it more homey and efficient for us." They revamped everything from the interior layout to the aesthetics, creating a space filled with charm.
Life Inside the Van
Living full-time in a van comes with its own set of conveniences and challenges. The couple transformed the horse box into a cozy abode, complete with a small kitchen, a comfortable double bed, and even a projector screen for movie nights. Although the living space is compact, the couple emphasizes how it's made them feel more connected to the outdoors.
Part 4/6:
“A significant part of living this way is the freedom it brings. We can have our door open, shower in nature, and enjoy time outside while being surrounded by beautiful landscapes,” Trish remarked. They have invested in features such as solar panels, a diesel heater, and a state-of-the-art water system to enhance their comfort.
Financial Freedom and Future Plans
One of the most appealing aspects of their lifestyle is the financial freedom it provides. With minimal expenses and a reduced need for a constant income, they can save approximately 95% of their wages. This has relieved a lot of pressure, allowing them to enjoy life more fully.
Part 5/6:
They’ve embraced a balance of work and travel, hinting at future plans for working six months and traveling for the next six. As they cement this lifestyle, they're eager to deepen their van adventures, venturing out to find new experiences across beautiful landscapes.
Community Feedback and Final Thoughts
Mike and Trish have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from those around them. Initially, there was skepticism—especially from family—about their decision to leave a stable business for a life on the road. However, as they continue to thrive, the couple emphasizes the importance of holding onto the mindset of resilience. “You only live once—if you have the drive to chase your dreams, you should go for it,” they urged.
Part 6/6:
In sharing their story, Mike and Trish highlight not just the physical journey of living in a van but the mental and emotional transformation that has come from embracing a lifestyle of minimalism, adventure, and freedom. As they invite others to explore their world, it’s clear that their journey is marked by joy, partnership, and independence.
In a world constantly saying no to flexibility, Mike and Trish have said yes to living their lives on their terms, surrounded by nature, love, and—most importantly—freedom.