'I swapped my narrowboat home for life in a van – there's one reason why'

Ever wondered what life would be like living on a narrowboat or in a van? TikTok user Heidi has done both, swapping one for the other recently as her love for "off-grid" living continues.

Along with her partner, Kai, she previously spent two and a half years living full-time in a van before moving to the rivers of England and back to the road again. "I suppose you could say I’m hooked on the off-grid alternative lifestyle," she told her 5,000 followers.

"Living on a narrowboat was an incredible experience," she recalled. "I felt deeply connected to the changing seasons, and there was something truly special about having your floating home travel with you wherever you went."

She continued: "My favorite part of boat life, especially at this time of year, was the log burner. It made the space feel so warm and cozy – perfect for autumn and winter evenings." Heidi shared footage of the pair's bedroom on their canal boat - which despite being cramped, offered a stunning view of the water.

On the road, meanwhile, the couple – and their dog, Millie – have all the essentials with them, as Heidi showcased by emerging from the van with a table and chairs before cooking breakfast.

"I absolutely love van life and the freedom it offers for fast-paced travel and exploring new places," Heidi explained. "But narrowboat life holds a special place in my heart, and I can confidently say it’s not over for me yet. One day, I’d love to own and renovate another boat, combining the best of both worlds.

Her dream? "To have both a van and a narrowboat," she confessed. "They complement each other so well, offering unique perspectives and a variety of ways to experience the world."

Heidi's video concluded on the road as she showed off the living space in their van – offering a tight-fitting double bed at the rear, shelf space and cupboards including a microwave nestled opposite a small sofa. Their vehicle's extensive renovation work also included adding an interior gas cooker as well as a significant storage area under their bed, providing space for belongings including a gazebo they can pitch on their stop-off locations.

"I found the problem with a narrow boat is you can only go one way or the other... with a van you can go anywhere, unless there's height restrictions which are all too common nowadays," one person wrote in response, detailing their experience with a similar lifestyle choice.

A second TikTok user added: "I have both. Not sure yet which I prefer. Although I only use them for travel and live in a house so not the same." A third pondered: "I would imagine boats will cost more in maintenance? But I’m guessing." Whilst a fourth praised the couple: "Looks idyllic, well done the both of you."