Small vehicles present special challenges for nomadic living, but they also have unique advantages over large vehicles. In the context of this wiki, small vehicles includes cars, minivans, minicargos, and SUVs.
Advantages
Compared to larger vehicles:
- Fuel efficiency is significantly higher in most cases, since you are hauling much less weight and have a lower profile against the wind. The more driving you plan to do, the more a larger vehicle will cost you. If you plan to drive less, fuel efficiency matters less.
- Parking and driving difficulty are lower.
- Vehicle clearance is lower; you can enter most low-clearance places like parking garages and drive-thrus.
- Vehicle insurability is generally easier and cheaper; most companies will be willing to work with you.
- Average annual repair costs will generally be lower, and most mechanics can work on your vehicle.
- Most have passthrough from the driving area to living space.
Disadvantages
- Reduced living space.
- Ceiling height will be too short to stand, and maybe even too short to sit up comfortably.
- Little to no room for solar mounting.
- Ground clearance is may be low. Undermount space is generally nonexistent.
- Higher conversion difficulty due to the small space and need for efficient use of every space.
Tips for living in small vehicles
Make as much use of vertical space as possible. Create a bed platform with storage underneath. Create floor-to-ceiling cabinets or drawers.
In most small vehicles, there won't be much room for floor space at all. You may prefer (or need) to use your vehicle itself for only storage and sleeping, and do most daily activities outside of the vehicle whenever weather permits.
Add external storage where possible. This typically takes the form of roof racks and rooftop cargo carriers, hitch racks, and trailers.