I’m Kinda Diggin’ Hotel Life over Van Life this Winter
I’ve been at an extended stay hotel in southeast Florida since early December 2025. I have about 2 months left - depending on when I decide to leave and head back to northwest Illinois for the summer.
I come here every winter to spend time with my daughter, son-in-law, and friends. Escaping the northern winter weather is simply an added bonus.
I usually stay at a campground for the 3 or 4 months that I’m here. But this year, at the very last minute, I decided to stay at an extended stay hotel. This is my first time staying several months at any type of hotel.
When at a campground, if I want to go somewhere, I have to pack everything up so I can drive without stuff flying around and get it all back out when I return to my campsite. I also need to re-level the van with leveling blocks (because very few campsites are perfectly level).
In my cozy little home on wheels I’m more exposed to the elements. My minimally insulated van does not have air conditioning and I truly detest being inside the van during stormy weather.
Rain is fine but thunderstorms, high winds, tornadoes, flash-floods, etc have become my kryptonite - causing me to rethink my life choices as I head to the nearest storm shelter or hunker down.
While at a hotel, I love that I can hop in my van and go somewhere without having to pack everything up, unpack it when I return, re-level, and all that jazz - not to mention there’s a solid buffer between myself and the outdoor elements.
An extended-stay hotel is like having my own little apartment with air conditioning, unlimited hot showers, a kitchen with a full-sized fridge, stove, and more. All utilities, security, and housekeeping are also included.
I’m not ready to give up van life entirely nor do I want to settle down in an apartment or house. But I have to say I’m enjoying hotel life.
I seem to be in the midst of a Hannah Montana moment… wanting the best of both worlds.
Connie 🌼
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