THE NOSTALGIA OF A WESTFALIA

Let’s be honest: some vehicles get you from point A to B… and then there’s the Volkswagen Westfalia, which gets you to point anywhere-you-want-to-be with the windows down, your playlist up, and a cooler full of snacks riding shotgun.

At Base Camp, we’ve seen it happen over and over, someone rents a van, thinking it’s just a fun way to explore Vancouver Island, and by the end of the trip? They’re head over heels. (With the van. Though falling in love with your travel buddy is also very on-brand.)

So what is it about this humble little camper that turns every road trip into a main-character moment?

1. It’s not just a van. It’s a vibe.

Driving a Westy is like entering another timezone, let’s call it Island Time. You slow down. You pay attention. You roll through coastal towns with a grin and a wave from strangers who definitely had one of these vans in the ‘90s.

There’s no rush, no WiFi, and zero pressure to have a perfect plan. And honestly? That’s the best part.

2. It’s got just enough everything.

A Westfalia gives you what you need and nothing you don’t. Comfy bed? Check. Tiny kitchen? Check. Pop-top that makes sleeping feel like a treehouse? Double check.

It’s the kind of setup that makes camping feel like a cozy little ritual, morning coffee brewed with the doors wide open, dinner under fairy lights, stargazing from the front seats.

It’s not luxury. It’s way better. It’s freedom.

3. She’s photogenic (and she knows it)

Let’s just say… Westys don’t have a bad angle. Park one beside the ocean or under a canopy of old-growth trees, and it's an instant aesthetic.
She’s basically the supermodel of the #vanlife world, but with more charm and fewer ego issues.

(And yes, you will want to take 100 photos. We support that.)

4. She comes with a soundtrack

Every Westy seems to come with its own playlist. You’ll hear your favourite songs differently when they’re echoing through the speakers while you cruise past surf towns or cook breakfast to the sound of rain on the roof.

It’s the kind of atmosphere money can’t buy, but a van rental just might.

5. She’s nostalgic, even if it’s your first time

Some people rent a Westy because they grew up road-tripping in one. Others come for the retro vibes and leave with a full-blown crush. Either way, these vans do something to you.

They remind you that the best adventures are the simple ones. Those slow mornings, good company, and a dirt road can be just as magical as any luxury resort.
That freedom doesn’t always look flashy, sometimes it looks like an old van with a pop-top and a lot of heart.