Ayo Hansen
Global Solo Expedition | Author & Writer
Life on wheels
I named my journey “Home is where I park” on social media, when my dream took root back in 2019, whispering of a life untethered. It’s about embracing the now, wherever I may be. Sometimes I’ll linger for weeks, other times I’m off with the dawn. The destination? Who knows! It’s the journey that sets my heart aflame.
Now, picture this: my entire world, squeezed into about 3 square meters. Sounds impossible, right? But with a dash of creativity and some clever multi-purpose gadgets, what you can do is amazing! Seven years ago, I was a tent-dweller. Rarely ventured far, my little canvas home needed constant tending. I felt… stuck. The forest life was grand, but my soul yearned for more. Then came the Volkswagen, my first van, and suddenly the world unfoled. This September when I saw my Land Rover Defender for the first time, it all made sense. She wasn’t much to look at – seats for three, dents aplenty – but oh, the adventures she promised!
With over 40,000 like-minded individuals, following along across my social medias, I’ve cultivated an environment that ignites the passion for adventure. I’m all about chasing life in everything I do. And you know, I bet you’ve got that same spark inside you, too. That little voice whispers, “Let’s go on an adventure!”
Let me be real with you – it ain’t always a picnic and candyfloss. I’ve weathered months of rain, battled frozen water tanks, and played hide-and-seek with shower facilities. But you know, those trials shape you. The faces you meet, the sights you see – they change you, deep down!
“The most dangerous worldviews are the worldviews of those who have never viewed the world.” It’s not just a catchy phrase – it’s a call to action and it’s a challenge. I’m here to show you how to break free from the ordinary and dive into a life overflowing with heart-pounding experiences.
When I first hit the road, I had no clue how much it would mold me. Letting go of my possessions, leaving the familiar behind – it forced me to see myself anew. I’ve learned to question my thoughts, challenge my habits. When I moved into the van, my worldly goods fit into eight boxes. Four for kitchen stuff, one brimming with spices, three packed with books, and two IKEA bags of clothes. It wasn’t an overnight transformation, but I’ve realized life’s richness isn’t measured in things.
Most nights, I nestle into nature’s embrace, far from the noisy streets of the city. I never felt unsafe, but I just turn the key and roll on if something feels off. And solitude? I relish it, without feeling lonely. I lose myself in books, scribble away, sketch to my heart’s content. And it’s so much easier to strike up a chat with locals when you’re flying solo.
Nature, oh, she’s my everything. Kayaking, foraging for mushrooms and herbs, capturing moments through my lens, or simply sitting in stillness, taking in the sounds. And don’t get me started on cooking! There’s nothing quite like sharing a hearty meal around the campfire with people.
This life on the road? It’s freedom, pure and simple. An endless string of adventures unfolding before me. People often ask me about the nitty-gritty – water, heat, that sort of thing. But for me, it’s so much more. It’s about those long, lazy evenings by the fire, the people I meet, the aroma of fresh-baked bread, and the warm embraces of loved ones.
Will I keep roaming till my last days? Who knows! Maybe a charming old farmhouse will tempt me to put down roots someday. But until then, I’m savoring every moment of this wheel-bound life, and if you’re itching to explore hidden gems off the tourist trail, stand in awe of nature’s raw beauty, embrace the excitement of the unknown, or test your – og yur vehicles – limits in the great outdoors – you’ve found your tribe!
My social media aren’t the typical run-of-the-mill travel diaries. They mix epic places, genuine laughs, raw real-life moments, and bursts of inspiration. So, what do you say? Are you ready to embrace a life that’s bold, free, and 100% you? Let’s hit the road together and see where this wild ride takes us!