Have you ever dreamed of hitting the road solo in a camper van—but thought it was too late to start? In a recent episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, Lesa McDermott sits down with van lifer Charlie Grace to talk about what van life over 50 really looks like: the independence, the unexpected costs, the safety concerns, and yes, the joy of living on your own terms.

Whether you're an experienced camper or just van-curious, this conversation is packed with real-world advice for women ready to explore van life after 50.

From Class C to Van Life: Charlie’s Journey

Charlie didn’t grow up camping—but after raising kids and juggling a traditional life, she was ready for something different. After trying both a 24' and a 30' Class C RV, a Dodge Ram ProMaster van, she finally transitioned into a 2025 Winnebago EKKO. It gave her the perfect blend of freedom, comfort, and dog-friendly flexibility.

Today, she’s 54 and spends 8–9 months a year traveling across the country—often solo, always with her pup.

Common Fears (and How She Tackled Them)

Charlie admits her biggest fear wasn’t driving or camping—it was boondocking. Learning to live off-grid was a challenge, but it gave her the independence she craved. She now has enough water and power reserves to go off-grid for up to 14 days.

Her biggest tip? Don’t try to learn everything at once. Take it one skill at a time and build confidence through practice.

Downsizing & Van Layout Tips for Women Over 50

Van life means embracing a minimalist lifestyle. For Charlie, that meant fewer clothes, collapsible gear, and smart storage solutions. One rule she swears by: everything you bring should do at least two jobs.

She also emphasized choosing a van layout that matches your mobility and lifestyle. Think about whether you want a permanent bed, where the bathroom is located, and how often you'll be cooking or entertaining.

Safety for Solo Women Travelers

Safety is a top concern for many women considering van life over 50. Charlie’s advice?

Trust your gut. If a location doesn’t feel right, move.

Travel with a pet if possible—dogs are great deterrents.

Have self-defense options like pepper spray or a personal alarm (and know your state laws).

Use apps like SpotCrime to assess safety in an area before you park overnight.

Costs of Van Life After 50

Think van life is cheaper than traditional living? Sometimes—but Charlie warns new van lifers to budget an extra $2,000–$7,000 for unexpected add-ons and upgrades. Plus, factor in maintenance (especially if you own a diesel like a Sprinter van), campground fees, and insurance.

Still, many women offset these costs with remote work or seasonal jobs. Charlie recommends platforms like Workamper News or exploring digital nomad gigs online.

Finding Your Community

Van life can be isolating—unless you intentionally seek out connection. Charlie encourages women to attend van life expos, Girl Camper Camporees, or join online communities to meet like-minded travelers.

And as she says: “If not now, then when?”

Final Thoughts: There Is No Wrong Way to Camp Like a Girl

Whether you’re interested in full-time van life or simply weekend adventures, Charlie Grace proves that age is no barrier to freedom. With the right gear, support system, and mindset, women over 50 can thrive on the road.

Huge Thank You to Go RVing for sponsoring this episode! Need more tips and advice to get started RVing? Check out Go RVing.

https://youtu.be/oGuwNduRZk8