Plant tips for vanlife lovers: There’s something magical about bringing a little green into your tiny rolling home. Whether it’s a single leafy friend on your dash or a mini jungle across your rear shelf, plants in a campervan instantly make the space feel more alive, cozy, and… well, like home.
But unlike in a regular house, vanlife plants face some unique challenges: movement, limited light, and the occasional extreme temperature swing. Don’t worry — with a bit of creativity and the right plant choices, you can keep your leafy companions thriving on the road.
Let’s dig in.
Why Add Plants to Your Campervan?
Besides being totally Instagrammable, plants in your camper offer real benefits:
- Natural air purification (yes, even in tiny spaces!)
- A sense of calm and connection to nature
- A creative, living decor element
- A mini project to care for while travelling
Best Plant Options for Vanlife
Choosing the right type of plant is half the battle. You want something low-maintenance, tolerant to temperature changes, and happy with indirect light.
- Pothos (Devil’s Ivy)
This is a vanlife favourite for a reason — it’s nearly impossible to kill. It trails beautifully, needs little watering, and survives in low light.
- Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
Super hardy and sculptural. It thrives on neglect and looks amazing in corners or tucked behind the passenger seat.
- Spider Plant
Loves indirect light, grows fast, and has adorable “babies” that hang down and add a fun touch.
- Succulents & Cacti
Compact and great for dashboards or window shelves — just avoid overwatering and make sure they don’t get scorched in direct sunlight.
- Herbs (Bonus: They’re edible!)
Basil, rosemary, mint, and thyme can all grow in small pots. Keep them near a window and water regularly.
Plants to Avoid in a Campervan
While many plants can adapt to vanlife, some are better left at home (or in the garden). Here are a few that just don’t vibe with life on the road:
1. Fiddle Leaf Fig
Looks great on Instagram, but it’s super sensitive to movement, temperature changes, and inconsistent lighting — a real drama queen.
2. Boston Fern
This lush plant loves humidity and consistent moisture, which is hard to maintain in a van without risking soggy soil or mold.
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3. Peace Lily
Beautiful but thirsty, it wilts quickly if not watered consistently and is also toxic to pets — not ideal for a shared space.
3. Tall Cacti
While succulents are great, tall or spiky cacti can be dangerous in a moving vehicle. A sharp bump can turn them into a hazard (ouch!).
4. Maidenhair Fern
Gorgeous but notoriously fussy. It needs steady humidity, filtered light, and doesn’t bounce back well if it gets stressed — not vanlife material.
🪴 Smart Ways to Hold Plants While Driving
One sharp corner and boom — dirt explosion! Here’s how to avoid that mess:
- Macrame or Hanging Pots
Hang plants from overhead cabinets or rear windows using hooks and macrame holders. Use a soft rope to minimise swaying.
- Mounted Planter Boxes
Attach lightweight wooden or metal boxes to walls or windowsills. Line them with grippy material so pots don’t slide.
- Non-slip Mats + Pots
Stick your pots on a non-slip mat (like drawer liners or yoga mat cut-offs). Add museum putty or Velcro dots for extra hold.
- Magnetic Planters
If you’ve got a metal wall or fridge front, magnetic planters are a fun space-saving option. Lightweight is key here!
- Repurposed Jars in Holders
Use old jars for cuttings or herbs, and slot them into cup holders, crates, or mesh storage pouches.
Maintenance Tips for Plants on the Move
- Water Wisely
Most vanlife plants prefer to be a little on the dry side. Use pots with drainage holes and always empty the drip tray. Avoid watering before long drives — wait until you’re parked for a while.
- Watch the Sunlight
Rotate your plants regularly to make sure all sides get equal sun. Dashboard plants may need a break from harsh afternoon rays, especially in summer.
- Dust Those Leaves
Plants in vans get dusty quickly. Gently wipe the leaves with a damp cloth every couple of weeks so they can breathe and absorb light properly.
- Monitor Temperature Changes
Avoid placing plants too close to doors or vents. In cold temps, cover pots at night or move plants away from windows to avoid frostbite.
- Prune and Propagate
Snip off dead leaves and overgrowth regularly. If your plant grows too big, propagate it into smaller pots and gift a cutting to a fellow traveller!
Final Thoughts: Plant Parenthood on the Road
Keeping plants in your campervan adds warmth, personality, and a touch of nature to your nomadic life. It’s not about creating a jungle (unless you want one!), but about choosing a few low-maintenance green buddies that bring you joy.
Start with one or two plants and see how they settle in. Over time, you’ll find the right balance between caring for them and living freely. After all, just like you, your plants are learning to thrive wherever the road leads.
Happy planting, and safe travels!
Image credits: This article includes stock images sourced from Canva Pro. All photos are used following Canva’s licensing terms for commercial use.
