Here’s why you should have a freezer in your van

Summers in the van can get as hot as hell, even in Ontario. Especially if you don’t have an AC, prepare for some sweaty days. Our fridge had a tiny freezer section when we first moved into the van. It took forever for ice to freeze and we used it up real quick. Now we have a giant chest fridge, with a freezer option. In the winter I keep it as a fridge but during the summer months, it’s down at -17℃, keeping my ice cream cold.

So here’s what you should know about having and not having a freezer in the van:

Helps you stay hydrated.

The main reason why you would want a freezer is to make ice and keep your drinks fresh in the heat. There’s nothing worse than going on a hike and drinking lukewarm water. It’s even better if you fill up a bottle with water halfway, and leave it in the freezer overnight. Before your activities, fill up the other half, and you will have a constant supply of cold water. There’s also iced coffee, iced fruit juices and smoothies, and ice for your pets' water bowl to keep their water fresh too.

Keep food fresh

Leaving food inside the van on hot days is asking for spoilage and bacteria. A freezer can keep your food fresh for longer, especially during the hot summer months. You can store frozen meals, ice cream, fruits, vegetables, and meat, ensuring that you always have fresh and healthy food options while on the road.

Enjoy frozen treats

Imagine yourself finding that perfect spot up in the crown land, setting up camp by the lake. It is now 3 pm, you’re sweaty and would love a cold and juicy popsicle. Well if you had a freezer… 😉 Plan for that moment ahead, it’s worth it.

You’ll save money on food and groceries

It is very tempting to eat out constantly while living in a van in the city. It is way easier than playing Tetris in the fridge, cooking on a one-burner stove, and then trying to use as little water as possible to clean the dishes. And especially if you are traveling, you most likely eat out more. With a freezer in your van, you can buy food in bulk and freeze it for later use, even restaurant leftovers. By preparing your meals and freezing them for tough times, you will save money in the long run. You can also take advantage of discounts and deals in grocery stores, knowing that you have a freezer to store the excess food.

Convenience

Having a freezer in your van will add convenience to your life in a van. You won't have to worry about finding a store to buy ice or rushing to a restaurant to eat before it closes. With a freezer in your van, you have everything you need at your fingertips, in the city or when boondocking. Unless you can hunt yourself a dinner real quick.

Variety of food options

Now you can go browse the frozen section and try all the premade goodies. I like to buy things in bulk like frozen fish sticks, cheese twisters, burgers, seafood, fish, and meat, and not have to worry about how fast to eat it.

After 3 years of living in a van, I’m always excited for spring, when I turn half of my fridge into a freezer. It’s the time for iced coffees, popsicles, and daily smoothies with frozen fruits and veg. Having a freezer makes van life easier, so you definitely should give it a try if it is within your budget. A great freezer is a luxury and it is not a basic necessity. But it sure is convenient.

Lara xo