Why I Ditched My Van Life "Bucket List" (And What I Do Instead)
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When you first start dreaming of van life, the first thing you probably do is make a "Bucket List."
You envision Zion, the Grand Canyon, Glacier National Park, and that one scenic drive you saw on Pinterest.
But let’s be honest: That list gets overwhelming. Fast.
It quickly turns into a source of pressure—a long, expensive checklist of "must-do" items. Suddenly, your life of freedom feels like a race against the odometer.
As a mentor for women on the road, I am here to tell you there is a better way. I call it the 'Intention List.'
Bucket List vs. Intention List (Function over Fashion)
The difference is simple but powerful.
A Bucket List is about what you will do (The Fashion). It is a checklist of destinations. If you miss one, you feel like you failed.
An Intention List is about how you will live (The Function). It focuses on the feeling of the journey, not just the GPS coordinates.
This practical tool helps you eliminate overwhelm and plan a journey that is joyful, grounded, and 100% yours.
How to Create Your Van Life 'Intention List'
Ready to ditch the pressure? Find a quiet moment, grab a notebook, and let's get clear on your vision.
Step 1: Start with Your 'Why' This is the core work we cover in my From Dream to Drive Blueprint. Before you list a single park, ask yourself why you are leaving your comfortable house for a 40-square-foot box.
Ask: What experiences have I put on hold?
Ask: How do I want to feel when I wake up on a Tuesday morning? (Peaceful? Adventurous? Unrushed?)
Step 2: Make it Actionable A bucket list item is "Visit Yosemite." An intention is "Become confident outdoors." See the difference?
The Goal: Focus on the small steps that build confidence.
The Plan: What is one small thing you can do this month to move toward that feeling?
Step 3: Focus on Actions, Not Outcomes This is the most important part of building mastery. Instead of a vague goal like "be happy," make it something you can actively do.
Instead of: "Be more adventurous."
Try: "Plan and take my first solo weekend trial trip."
Instead of: "Eat healthy on the road."
Try: "Find and cook one new, one-pot recipe each week."
Instead of: "See everything."
Try: "Spend three days in one location without moving the van."
Your List is a Guide, Not a Test
Here’s the best part: your 'Intention List' is yours. It’s meant to be a source of encouragement, not pressure.
Your list will grow and adapt as you do. The most valuable part of this process is simply getting clear on your personal values. That clarity is the foundation for your simple, confident, and joyful reality.
Ready for the Next Step?
Getting your intentions clear is the perfect first step. If you’re ready to turn that clarity into a complete, actionable plan, I have a free tool for you.
Download the Free Blueprint: Grab my From Dream to Drive: Van Life Planning Blueprint. It’s a free, step-by-step guide to help you conquer planning paralysis and map your adventure. 👉 Download the Blueprint Here
Get Personalized Guidance: If you’re feeling stuck and want a relatable, one-on-one guide to help you build your list, check out my Mentoring Packages. We can work through your 'what-ifs' together. 👉 Explore Mentorship Packages
