10 TIPS FOR VANLIFE DURING COVID-19

If you are living in your van this summer, then here are a few tips to help things run smooth.

Power: Don’t assume that you can hang out in a coffee shop or rec centre to charge your devices. Be self-reliant and have a means to charge your laptop and phone. Portable charges work great, just be sure to charge them while on the road.

Food: Don’t assume that you can find an open diner or pub. Instead, stock up at a grocery store with the essentials and have a place to keep things cold. Before hitting the road, make a plan for how you’re going to cook and eat meals camping-style.

Coffee: Whatever your morning drink of choice, make it yourself. Limit your visits to drive-thrus or cafés. A French press makes a perfect cup of coffee for pre-climb wakeup times.

Bevies: Many climbers love post-climb beers, ciders, Moscow mules or a glass of wine. Whatever your bevy of choice, be sure to conceal them if you’re in a parking lot. Don’t leave empty cans or bottles at crags or next to the van. Keep your area clean and dispose of things properly.

Showers: Find a lake, because most public showers, like at swimming pooes or rec centres, will likely be closed for the rest of the year.

Lay Low: Seeing five vans grouped together with 10 climbers lounging in camping chairs making dinner, isn’t what every climbing lot needs. If you feel like you shouldn’t be doing it, then pack up and head to somewhere more discrete.

Social Media: If you’re climbing in an area with stay-athome orders, then don’t post to social media. Also, don’t post to social media that you’re travelling across Canada. We all know people are out there doing it, but there’s no need to spray about it.

Stay Informed: Check local health guidelines from time to time, because the situation where you are might change. Climbing gyms might suddenly open, or camping might suddenly be cancelled. Stay informed during the pandemic so you don’t get caught camping somewhere you’re not allowed.

Climbing: While you might be comfortable climbing next to another group, they might not be. Ask if others are OK with you being nearby, and if not, then politely move along. This is a weird year and people are stressed. Some climbers have health conditions and some might just want to be alone. Being a nice climber has never been more important.

Slackline: Get a slackline, because they’re a great way to spend an evening around the bon fire with some friends.