Number of vans, RVs or boats were counted as housing units in 2019, up from 102,000 in 2016. The circumstances of those living in vans can vary wildly. Some have no choice. Other “van lifers” covet a nomadic (and social-media-friendly) bohemian lifestyle. The trend looks likely to stick. Surging house prices and the normalisation of remote work may push more wannabe nomads out onto the road.