By Julie-Ann Sherlock
I have loved caravans since I was a child. I also love the idea of taking your home with you wherever you go. Some cousins had them, and I loved spending time camping out in them, even if it was just parked at their house!
The lure of a tiny but well-organised space was appealing. The ability to change scenery when bored probably appealed to my slightly chaotic ADHD mind. When I was 15, I had the good fortune of exploring Canada and the USA with my family. We travelled in a Winnebago. My love for this type of travel was cemented. Yet, it is still something I haven’t done as an adult.
I now spend most of my year in Malaysia. My feet are beginning to itch again. Thoughts of embracing vanlife in Asia have started to creep in. It has inspired me to look into caravan tourism in the region. I have also started planning an adventure through this vast continent.
A big part of the appeal is exploring at your own pace. You have the freedom to travel off the beaten path. However, you still have some home comforts. These include a cosy, dry bed. I also have as many pairs of my beloved sneakers as I can fit in the wardrobe.
I would love to check out Mongolia’s serene landscapes. I want to park near some of Thailand’s tropical beaches. I also wish to explore Japan without paying high accommodation costs. Lastly, I would love to see more of India’s beauty away from the overcrowded cities.
So, let’s examine these four locations on my grand caravan tour of Asia. We will see what awaits me if I finally take the plunge.
Caravan Tourism In Japan
One of the most well-developed countries in terms of infrastructure, Japan is an ideal destination for a caravan trip. It is dotted with many campsites. These are known as “Michi-no-eki” (roadside stations). They offer free parking for caravans, toilets, and sometimes even hot springs.
I would love to drive through Hokkaido, the northernmost island. It is particularly famous for its natural beauty and ample parking spots. This would give me an authentic flavour of the country. Japan has strict traffic laws, which is reassuring. This means I should be pretty safe driving here, so it might be the best place to start my adventure.
#Vanlife In Mongolia
As a child and an avaricious reader, my mind was full of wild adventures. Some involved nomadic tribes in Mongolia’s vast steppes and unspoiled landscapes. I dreamed that one day, I could see them in real life. And maybe I will.
Caravan tourism here is still nascent, but the country’s nomadic culture aligns perfectly with the idea of vanlife. You can drive through endless grasslands or the Gobi Desert. You can camp under the stars. Experiencing an authentic connection with nature is possible. The only downside is that it is very remote travel, services can be sparse, and self-sufficiency is vital.
But when I go, I would love to set up camp in the shade of the Tsagaan Suvarga. I would love to camp in the shade of the White Stupa. I want to soak up this almost otherworldly landscape. Although, by the looks of it, I will need a four-wheel-drive camper to make this trip!
Caravan Living In India
I spent some time in India back in 2017 and 2019, and have a love/hate relationship with the place. I love the people, culture, and scenery, and Indian food is my favourite. But the poverty, dirt, and chaos distresses me.
My favourite time in India was when I spent a few weeks in peaceful Goa. I also took a short trip into the desert near Jaisalmer in Rajasthan. This makes me think that taking a campervan and getting out of the cities would really help. It would also help rebalance the love aspect of my feelings for the country. States like Kerala, with its stunning backwaters, lead the charge in promoting caravan-friendly routes. Maharashtra is promoting these routes outside its sprawling metropolis of Mumbai. My beloved Rajasthan is also leading this initiative.
I would also like to drive across the middle of the country. I want to explore places like Lucknow and finally realize my ambition to witness a Ganges burial at Varanasi. My sister and her husband motorbiked in the Assam and Sikkim states. They said the regions were breathtaking. I could also see myself there sipping a cup of local tea in my van after a day of driving.
Caravan Life In Thailand
Everyone’s favourite holiday destination, Thailand, is ideal for a vantastic trip. This is thanks to its scenic coastal routes and a growing number of campsites. I have been to Thailand twice but didn’t have time to dive deeper into the culture. The country’s northern regions, including Chiang Mai and Pai, offer lush mountain landscapes. Their vibrant culture is waiting to be explored slowly.
Alternatively, coastal areas like Phuket and Krabi provide the opportunity to park near stunning beaches. Caravan parks in Thailand are not as widespread as in other parts of Asia. The tourism sector is working to accommodate this growing trend.
The Practicalities
Understanding local laws and customs is crucial for a safe and legal journey. Find out what type of driving licence is required. Most Asian countries accept an International Driving Permit (IDP). Still, in some, like China, you need to obtain a local driver’s licence. Always check the specific requirements of each country before planning your trip.
Some countries don’t allow wild camping; you must only stay at official campsites and designated zones. Always research permitted camping areas and follow local regulations.
Ensure that your rented vehicle is adequately insured. Some countries may require additional insurance for international travellers or specific coverage for off-road areas.
Asia’s road conditions can vary drastically from one region to another. Always prepare your caravan for possible rough conditions and carry emergency supplies.
While many Asian countries are used to tourists, English may not be widely spoken in rural areas. A basic knowledge of the local language or a translation app can help navigate roads or ask for directions.
Caravan tourism is growing in the region. It opens up a more sustainable way to travel. It also gives you a more immersive experience of the cultural and natural wonders. So, if you are, like me, thinking of leaping vanlife in Asia, do your research. Pack your bags. Hit the road. Get ready to explore from the comfort of your home on wheels.