For many, living on the road means freedom and adventure. For Sara Dungo, 34, it became a new way of life with her three pets.
Dungo shares her van life journey on TikTok (@saradungo), where she shows life with her calico cat Chi Chi, black cat Chester, and dog Max. She adopted all three over the years while living full-time in her van.
Her adventure started in 2019 when she bought and converted a van into a home. The process took more than a year and cost about $10,000.
Dungo told Newsweek she chose van life because she was exploring minimalism. She wanted to simplify her life and slow down. “I wanted a deeper connection with nature and more freedom day to day,” she said. At first, van life was about moving often, exploring new places, and chasing adventure.
She began traveling alone but soon included her pets. Making sure they felt comfortable was a big part of the journey.
“They’re wonderful companions,” she said. “I eased them into van life with short trips and routines to give them consistency and comfort. I park where they can safely explore outdoors and come back to our cozy home at night.”
Pets need routines to stay happy and healthy. Both cats and dogs feel safer when they know what to expect each day.
Training her pets required patience and consistency. “I used positive reinforcement and made sure the van was always a safe space,” Dungo said. Her cats have been leash-trained since they were kittens. All three adapted well and seem to enjoy life on wheels.
Positive reinforcement rewards good behavior and ignores bad behavior. Experts say this method builds trust and avoids punishment, which pets don’t understand and which can harm their bond with owners.
Having her pets along made Dungo’s adventures even more special. She watches them closely when outside and keeps them leashed in cities.
“I haven’t had major issues with them running off,” she said. But living in a small space means compromises.
“I downsized my clothes to give my cats their own space. I also plan camp spots carefully for their safety. I avoid large cities and prefer rural areas.”
After six years, Dungo and her pets have settled into a slower pace. She stays longer in each place to enjoy the seasons and live intentionally.
“Van life with pets isn’t always easy, but it’s very rewarding,” she said. “I hope my story shows others that alternative lifestyles are possible, even with furry family members.”
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