“We went from 35,000 rentals in 2019 to 55,000 in 2021.” And for the first half of 2022 alone, “40% growth in reservations” was observed according to Olivier Puybasset, France-Belgium sales manager at Yescapaleader in private rental of leisure vehicles.
It is on this now famous platform that we were able to test the “vanlife”. A mode of travel which is not so new but which, above all, never ceases to seduce.
On Yescapa, There is something for every taste. Vans, converted vans, camper vans… from loners looking for wide open spaces to couples who want to get away in comfort, as well as families and other tribes who feel the need to travel the planet, all the way. everyone will find what they are looking for. The promise ? Total freedom aboard a vehicle that suits YOU.
The editorial staff had the opportunity to test the Yescapa service through a one-week road trip to Portugal. The search tool is simple and comprehensive at the same time. You enter your criteria (indoor shower or not, automatic transmission or not, number of beds, outdoor table for aperitifs, etc.) and happiness appears just a few clicks away.
As if you were going to book a hotel room, you are preparing to book the establishment on wheels which will allow you to fall asleep every night and wake up every morning with a new view, a new horizon.
The other commitment: reliability. And Yescapa kept all its commitments! Exchanges with rental owners are fluid (each request is 100% free and non-binding) and everything is secure in terms of deposit and payment. The customer service is even surprising in its speed and efficiency.
Our recommendations
For starters, Portugal turns out to be a country absolutely made for vanlife. Our lovely road trip started very close to Porto and then took us to Nazaré and its sublime and very lively coastline (you will absolutely have to taste the tasty Bolas de Berlim and try the funicular). We traveled in an ultra-equipped Fiat Ducato. She was the “baby” of Manuel, a Portuguese vanlife enthusiast who made his van super stylish and 100% practical.
The steps that followed were just as magical. Don’t miss Sao Martinho, Peniche, Sintra, Cascais. Flee Lisbon if you prefer the great outdoors and prefer Sines, a small town that has immense charm. Sagres, Lagos, Portimao (Ah, the Algarve!) and Silves will also have very, very, nice surprises in store for you. Word of vanlifer!
To finally find out where to park, download the free Park4night application before your departure, which lists campsites, areas for emptying your vehicle and other car parks which are accessible to vans, vans and campsites.
To discover Yescapa’s Instagram and great travel ideas and incredible spots, it’s right here.
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