I know there’s a lot of vanlifers out there that promote products. Many do it because they rely on the kickbacks to earn money on the road. I fully respect and understand that and try to support as many of them as I can because it’s their livelihood and I want people to succeed. I also like to promote products that I believe in and use when I’m in the van on the road. Here are some of those products:
MoonShade — I didn’t want to be restricted with an expensive awning that was affixed to one side of the van, so when I heard that a San Francisco company came up with a more versatile and cheaper awning, I was stoked. I was one of the first buyers of the MoonShade and absolutely love it! It packs up small to the size of a yoga mat, fits in one of my back drawers in the van, and sets up fast and easy. Use code 'barbrocks' for $30 off! They launched a Kickstarter for the new MoonShade XL, which I supported, so I can’t wait for the new 12’x9’ awning with over 100 sq ft of shade! Once I get it, I’ll probably sell my original size one, so stay tuned if you’re wanting one that’s barely used at a discounted price!
Quest Overland — I have the Sprinter blackout window covers for the front cab and back windows and they fit perfectly with strong magnets holding them up. They are well constructed in a neutral color, and last years and years; mine are from 2019 and they don’t show any wear and tear. The company also makes bug screens for the sliding door now, which install into the rubber gasket so they stay secure, though they sell out and aren’t always available. Use code “barbrocks5” to save 5% in their shop!
UPDATE: Hally & Ian the founders of Quest Overland sold the company in September 2023 and the new owner Josh is not fulfilling orders, nor replying to emails. I sadly can no longer recommend this company to people unless the new owner gets his business affairs in order and customer service improves.
Ripplewear — I bought these easy to put up bug screens on eBay and am overall happy with them. They attach with magnets and stay up decently, though if you pull too hard, they do come down. If you don’t want to spend a lot of money on van screens, these are a good solution, plus they pack up small when you don’t need them. I only put mine up when I’m in an area with mosquitoes.
Kula Cloth — I love my Kula pee cloths and use them at home and in the van. Kula is an anti-microbial cloth made from advanced silver-infused textiles that saves the environment and is the perfect item for women that are into outdoor activities like hiking, mountaineering, camping, fishing, etc, as well as for people living the nomadic lifestyle. This well-designed reusable pee cloth wipes after squatting, attaches to backpacks with a snap, snaps closed after use, and keeps toilet paper from littering nature. I have a bidet at home, so I use it to avoid getting toilet paper fuzz on me, and I keep one in my purse for those occasions when public bathrooms don’t have anything to wipe with. Practice “leave no trace” and keep your genital area clean, all while using a practical, eco-friendly item with pretty art on it!
SandCloud — These towels dry quickly and fold up small, which is essential in a small space, plus they have some cool patterns/designs, and 10% of profits goes to marine conservation. They have a Disney collaboration now and have released Star Wars, Harry Potter, and Micky Mouse designs, and continually release other cool marine designs with various preservation organizations. For my home I own two sets of the Pantone bath bundle (in French Blue and Bluing), and the Mud Cloth bath bundle (in black). In addition, I have the Harmony, Sundown, Mandala, and Vista (zebra print) towels (some of these designs are no longer available), which I use for beach, lake or pool excursions. I also have the Cyperus kitchen towels bundle for the van since they match my interior colors so well.
Rumpl — I love their puffy blankets as they keep you super warm with cool designs, which are available in different types (original, nano, down), plus they have an indoor line (sherpa, hemp, wool), as well as towels, mats, and other gear. I own 4 puffy blankets them now and I have the Lake Tahoe Everywhere Towel, which is super soft! The company does limited edition artist collaborations (I own 2 of those) and they have a super cool National Parks collection, and even an NFL collection! I love how there’s a clip on the puffy so you can wear it outside to stay warm.
Amazon — I have a few different Amazon lists with products that I use and think are good. The lists are divided up into Vanlife Essentials, Van Build, Cat Products, Household Items, Sports & Fitness Gear, Good Books, Beauty Products, and Fashion. My favorite thing to promote for ladies living vanlife is the female urination device which fits perfectly between the legs so there’s no mess! I also have all the items from my van build that are available on Amazon up, as well as other practical items for vanlifers.
Curie — I’ve tried many natural deodorants out there but many don’t fully work for me because I sweat easily. I discovered this brand on Shark Tank and decided to try it after seeing the founder get the investors to smell her armpits after a hike and scoring a deal. Guess what? This clean, aluminum-free deodorant really works! Even after hours of salsa dancing, my armpits still smell good despite all the sweating. In addition to the deodorant, I also use the deodorant & body spray for a refreshing spritz, and the armpit detox mask for a deep cleaning when needed, which also works on your face if you have problem areas. I recommend getting the Pit Kit as a starter packet.
Paka — An amazing apparel line founded in Peru that makes all-purpose clothing for people who love the outdoors with alpaca fiber and other materials that are healthier for people and the planet. I personally love the Breathe Zip-up and The Hoodie, as well as the baselayers and socks. These garments keep you so warm and are so soft to the touch! Not only does this company ethically source the alpaca fibers, they employ Peruvian weavers and multiply their daily income by 8x. Some of the garments are even hand-signed by by the woman artisan who wove it!
SkinADX — Clean beauty is important, especially for the ladies out there. A friend of mine started this company and they are the best skincare products I’ve ever used. I have the best skin of my life now thanks to her 5 steps cleansing and moisturizing system made from quality essential oils and absolutely no fillers. I highly recommend the Azulene Cleansing Oil Concentrate, Harmony Cleanser, Quench Hydrating Toner, Defi Vitamin C&E Age Defying Serum, Radiance Blue Tansy Serum, Green Godess Repair Serum, Nutrish Day Cream, iBrite Eye Cream, and Body Guard Hand Cream. I use all of these and refuse to try another skin care line now. Use code “SkinADX4U” to save 20%!