top of page
VanEssential logo

Free Shipping on Orders over $50 (US - Lower 48)

DSC09050_WebSize_Moab2025_ForgedbytheWild.jpg

WHO WE ARE

VanEssential builds high-quality, innovative gear for the vanlife community. What started with a simple desire to create better window covers has grown into a trusted line of essentials, from storage systems to bug screens and Venutre L-Track. We're committed to filling product gaps in the industry and designing products that enhance the experience for adventurers on the road.

Started in a Garage

Just a few years ago, the van gear industry was little more than DIYers working with foam and duct tape in their garages. One of those passionate individuals was James Bartho, Founder of VanEssential. In his quest to find the best window covers for his own vans, he bought, tested, cut open and pulled apart every window cover available. 

​

When he couldn’t find a high-quality, affordably priced solution, Bartho drew on his experience working with top global outdoor brands to create the best window cover on the market. And so, VanEssential was born. As our window covers gained traction in the vanlife community, we expanded our product lineup to become a trusted source for vanlife essentials, including storage systems, bug screens, venture L-track, and more.

​

Today, we’re proud to be a leader in the van gear industry, trusted by adventurers and DIYers alike. What started as a simple pursuit for better window covers has grown into a mission to provide high-quality, durable products that make vanlife more comfortable, convenient, and eco-friendly. As we look ahead, we’ll continue to grow and evolve, but will always stay true to our core values of innovation, quality, comfort, eco-conscious design, and DIY compatibility. 
 

James Bartho, Founder of VanEssential
VanEssential is based in Boulder, CO.

DESIGNED IN BOULDER, CO.

Our 26,000 square foot headquarters in Boulder, Colorado is home to a fast paced, well-dialed team. Among other functions, our staff runs a top-of-the-line precision design and engineering process, a boulder-based real-life customer service team, and a robust partnership program with wholesale van builders across the country. We intentionally chose one of the most popular states for vanlife to call our home and are proudly transparent about where we work, live, and play. It allows us to bring our best each day, offer same-business-day shipping to our customers, and create best in class van life gear for anyone who needs it.

Vanlife made innovative

INNOVATION

Since the beginning, VanEssential has designed products with a solutions-first approach, listening to the community's needs and responding with products that elevate the van life experience. From the first magnetic window covers to ultralight soft-sided cabinets, we lead the industry in original design that's highly functional. With innovation as a core tenant of our process, we're always designing superior solutions that make van life easier.

Vanlife made quality

QUALITY

Our gear is made to last. At VanEssential, each of our products is meticulously designed for superior fit, functionality, and durability - to ensure you're getting the highest quality gear for your rig. Our top-quality products offer a better van life experience, a longer lifespan, and reduce environmental impact.

Vanlife made comfortable

COMFORT

We believe that life on the road should feel easy. Whether you're road tripping, permanently remote, or enjoying a weekend getaway, our products are meant to enhance your van life and make it feel like home away from home.

Vanlife made eco-conscious

ECO-CONSCIOUS DESIGN

Whenever possible, we prioritize manufacturing with recycled materials. By utilizing recycled PET for all our soft goods, we reduce carbon emissions by 79% as opposed to virgin materials. We make a living outfitting camper vans, but we make a life exploring the globe - and feel a strong responsibility to help mitigate our impact on the planet.

Vanlife made DIY Friendly

DIY COMPATIBILITY

At VanEssential, we understand that DIY culture is at the heart of van life. As such, we strive to make our products approachable and easily implementable for a wide range of technical skillsets. Whether your van is self-made or designed by a professional builder, our gear is meant to integrate seamlessly and hassle-free into your build. Many of our products require no tools to install, but when they do, we provide the resources and support needed for your success.

bottom of page