The #VanLife is a big trend across social media with videos of savy DIY conversion projects, mobile remote work setups, and incredible destinations. Some may say that the camper van craze is nothing new — but no one can deny that the wheels on this modern motor industry are going round and round.

Thankfully, you don't have to head out out of state or drop $100,000+ to try it out. Here are two KC companies that rent conversion vans fit for your next adventure.

Van Life KC

This one is named "Darth Vader." | Photo by Van Life KC.

KCK teacher Spencer Martin bought his first van with his wife a month before the pandemic hit. They decided to start the business as a way to experience the van while making a return on their investment.

"One of our main goals is to allow people to have adventures that they couldn’t otherwise afford," he told us. "We actually had someone who rented our van, came back, sold their house, and took their family of five in a van for two years."

They offer:

Vans and trailers
10-14 options to choose from
Names the vehicles after Star Wars characters

Prices vary.

Find Your Blue

The Howitts are also building a camp resort north of the metro. | Photo by Find Your Blue

Josh and Tina Howitt started road tripping when they bought a three-legged dog and didn't feel right leaving her at home or at a kennel.

"[Our van is] outfitted like a vacation home on wheels," Tina told us. "[It's also] extremely dog-friendly. We have waterproof seat covers, non-skid rugs, no-spill dog bowls, a complimentary pampered pooch package, remote temperature + humidity monitor, dog seat belts, and an optional collision-grade kennel."

They offer:

Dog-friendly trip itineraries
Complementary packing checklist
No pet fees or restrictions on weight or breed

Prices start at $219 per night.