Whilst everyone heads south in their vans, there’s Sweden, a unique van-paradise stretching to the very top of Europe.
It’s a country perfectly set up for vanlife. Here are 21 reasons why…
Also see this post: Sweden by campervan: an Arctic adventure
1. You can drive right into the forest
2. You can get pictures like this from the roadside
3. Camping in nature is legal and… normal
Everyone has the right to enjoy nature. They call it Allemansrätten, meaning all mans rights.
4. The Pine & Fur trees provide the best living room
Not only does pine smell great but spending time in a pine forest has many benefits for your health
5. There’s space for everyone
Even in the capital of Stockholm, there’s so much open space that gives it a totally different feel compared to most other capitals.
6. Very well-maintained roads
Even in the most remote areas the roads are perfect. If you’re from the UK this could cause confusion and/or anger.
7. Amazing public toilets
8. Easily accessible bins and recycling
9. Sweden is really clean
10. Camp where you like
11. Beaches mountains, lakes and forest all accessible by van
12. Public BBQ spots are everywhere
13. Public fire pits provided
14. Fire wood is often provided free (especially up north)
15. But it’s also dry enough to collect your own
16. Foraging: lots of Blueberries, Cranberries, Chanterelle mushrooms
See post: Sweden by campervan: discovering the free forest food
17. You can wash in the clean lakes and rivers
You can also save your van water by washing your dishes in the lakes (no soap)
18. Decent drinking water is everywhere and free
19. The summer days are really long and very warm
The summers are often hotter than the UK and the days are longer. Combine that with cooking on the provided BBQ by a lake with your van-home right there!
20. View the aurora from your van (except summer)
You can drive to the best aurora viewing spots in the world and watch the show without even leaving the van, if you like.
See post: Discovering Sweden’s best Aurora spots by Campervan
21. It’s dry
Dry cold vs damp cold makes a huge difference when living in a van. Low temperatures are a lot more tolerable and comfortable. It’s quite easy to stay with your van into autumn. Even winter is possible if you’re prepared.
Sweden is a nature-oriented country
It’s clear a lot of thought is put into the environment and nature here in Sweden. This eco-mindset is embedded into the culture and I’d say, I hope, it makes life better for everyone there.
Also see these posts:
Beyond the lakes: A Swedish campervan adventure
The ultimate campervan country: 21 reasons to visit Sweden in your van
Comment below with thoughts, tips, things to add, as well as reasons why we all shouldn’t just move to Sweden…