Meet Catina: Your Van Life Guide
I’m Catina (and Henry 🐾), founder of The Van Lifestylist.
After years of exploring, downsizing, and living on the road, I’ve learned what it really takes to make van life simple, sustainable, and fulfilling.
Now, I help others do the same—so you can start and live van life with clarity, confidence, and ease.
Why I Started This
There was a time when my life looked “right” on paper—career, home, routine—but it never felt right inside. I wanted something simpler, freer, more intentional.
In 2016, an 80-day solo road trip across the U.S. changed everything. That journey—and a move across the country soon after—helped me see what mattered most: experiences over things, connection over comfort, and the courage to trust my own path.
Out of that realization, The Van Lifestylist was born—a space to help others embrace freedom, flexibility, and simplicity without the overwhelm or guesswork.
What I Do & Why It Matters
This brand is about more than wanderlust. It's about giving vanlifers practical tools, personalized support, and confidence to create a lifestyle that truly fits.
What I offer:
1:1 Mentoring — walking beside you as you plan, build, and live
Van Life Notebooks & Resources — bite-sized, usable guides for every part of the journey
Real stories, tips, and transparency (no sugar-coating)
When you work with me or use my tools, you’re not left alone to figure it all out. You get encouragement, real solutions, and a partner in your journey.
A Bit About My Journey
I’ve lived and traveled in everything from an SUV and a minivan to a 33' motorhome—and soon, a ProMaster van. Each setup taught me something new about simplicity, adaptability, and freedom.
Before life on the road, I lived in two tiny house communities, learning firsthand how to create home, community, and balance in small spaces.
I’ve founded and run small businesses while traveling full-time.
I’m also the author of Discovering My Gypsy Soul, a reflection on listening to your inner voice and embracing a life that feels truly your own.
With a background in taxes and business, I bring the practical side of nomadic living—helping others navigate the financial and logistical realities that make the lifestyle sustainable.
I don’t believe in perfect van life.
I believe in real van life—the messy parts, the growth, and the freedom that’s worth it.
A Few Places I’ve Shared My Journey
Paid to Travel: The UGC Podcast — What You NEED To Know About Finances As A Content Creator
Pucker Mob— Being Yourself Is Your Superpower
Clock Out! The Vicarious Life— You Were Born for Leaving
The Road To Rediscovery Podcast— The Gypsy Soul of Catina Borgmann