Van Life: The Best Jobs That Fuel Freedom on the Open Road 

Part IV of the Hook & Barrel Van Life Series

Van life isn’t just a lifestyle—it’s a revolution in how people work, travel, and live. The growing allure of the open road reflects a deeper shift in societal values, emphasizing freedom, flexibility, and a closer connection to nature. For many, the ability to trade traditional workspaces for panoramic views of mountain ranges, deserts, or oceans is transformative. Remote work, once a niche concept, has become the cornerstone that sustains this movement, allowing people to earn a living while embracing the nomadic life. Some may wonder what are the best jobs for van life and if they're sustainable. We can assure you that there are a wide variety of career paths for this lifestyle.

This evolution in work and travel isn’t limited to tech-savvy millennials. From graphic designers to tutors, photographers to business consultants, individuals from diverse fields are reimagining how they contribute to the workforce. The beauty of van life lies in its adaptability—whether you’re running a small business from a Class C RV or teaching English from a converted skoolie, there’s a way to blend your passion for travel with meaningful work. 

Reinventing The Workspace

The possibilities for income while living in a van, RV, or converted school bus are as vast as the open road itself. The rise of online tools, improved mobile technology, and flexible career opportunities have made it easier than ever to earn a steady income without sacrificing the freedom of life on wheels. At its heart, van life is more than a means to escape routine—it’s about crafting a life that prioritizes experiences, self-reliance, and the thrill of exploration. 

For Emily, a freelance writer, the road is her muse. Traveling in her converted Sprinter van, complete with a built-in desk and solar panels, Emily spends her days creating articles and web content for various clients. “I can’t imagine going back to a 9-to-5 job,” she says. “Freelance writing gives me the freedom to work from remote locations—whether it’s a beach or in the mountains—and to choose the projects I want to take on.” The setup in her van, with its solar-powered internet and compact storage for books and equipment, ensures she’s always ready to dive into her next project, no matter where she parks. 

Similarly, Jonas T., a graphic designer, has turned his creativity into a mobile career. Working from a Ford Transit van that he modified to include a spacious workstation, Jonas designs logos and branding materials for startups and small businesses. “I get to design on the go, and my clients don’t mind where I am, as long as I deliver on time,” he says. His van is equipped with high-speed internet and a dual-monitor setup, making it a dream workspace for a designer on the move. 

For those with teaching experience, one of the best jobs for van life is online tutoring which offers a world of opportunity. Derek Garcia, an online tutor specializing in test preparation, spends his days connecting with students via video calls from his Dodge camper van. “I love that I can work with students from my van, parked in all kinds of scenic places,” he explains. His van includes a quiet, soundproof area for sessions and an inverter to power his teaching equipment. Derek says the ability to set his own hours and help students succeed is deeply rewarding. 

A Van, A Plan & A Passion

Not all vanlifers focus on traditional careers. Tommy Kim, a freelance photographer, has made a living capturing stunning landscapes and lifestyle shots for outdoor brands. With an eye for detail and a passion for adventure, Tommy’s photos document the van life experience while earning him a steady income. “I’ve been able to grow my portfolio while traveling full-time. It’s been amazing to combine my love for photography with my love of travel.” 

For those with an entrepreneurial spirit, e-commerce is lauded as one of the best jobs for van life. Leo Harris runs an online store selling van life accessories and DIY kits from his 26-foot Winnebago. “I manage everything from inventory to marketing right from the road,” he explains. His RV’s layout includes a custom desk and extra storage for his products, allowing him to seamlessly run his business. “Building my e-commerce store has given me the freedom to work while I travel. It’s the best decision I ever made.” 

Other vanlifers have found success in social media management and marketing. Matt and Morgan, a couple who have been living in their converted Sprinter for three years now, manage accounts for small businesses and influencers. “We get to work with brands we love while traveling,” says Matt. The couple’s van includes a seating area optimized for co-working, along with a built-in Wi-Fi booster to handle their connectivity needs. “It’s not just a job—it’s a lifestyle. The flexibility to work from anywhere and create content is a huge bonus,” Claire adds. 

Apply Your Talents Anywhere

Fluency in multiple languages has also opened up doors for vanlifers like Julia Martinez, a freelance translator. Traveling in her 1980s VW Transporter, Julia works with clients around the globe, translating documents, websites, and marketing materials. “The job gives me a lot of flexibility, and I can work with clients from all over the world,” she says. “I can translate articles one day and contracts the next—all from my cozy little home on wheels.” 

With the rise of remote work, van life is no longer an unattainable dream for those looking to travel full-time. From writing and design to consulting and e-commerce, the possibilities are endless for those who want to work while exploring the world. With a laptop and an internet connection, you can take your career with you and create the perfect balance between work and adventure. As Emily puts it, “Van life and remote work are a match made in heaven. It’s the best way to live life on your terms.” 

Whether you're an entrepreneur, a creative professional, or an educator, the best jobs for van life are the ones that align with your skills and allow you the freedom to work from the road. The world is waiting — and your van is your office.