Pablo starts his day before sunrise, getting his nine-square-meter campervan ready for another round of split shifts at a Swiss restaurant. Bellota, his dog, comes first. She shares the tight living space and the rhythm of his working week. Together, they head out for a morning bike ride, which helps keep her calm while Pablo is at work.
Life in such a small space takes discipline. Every task, from making coffee to sorting work gear, claims a impressive part of the van. Pablo keeps his routine efficient and his priorities clear: Bellota’s well-being comes first, even on the busiest days. He uses a GPS collar to track her and returns to the van during breaks to check on her and prepare her meals.
Work and Mobility
Pablo’s job demands 42.5 hours a week, close to the Swiss hospitality sector’s collective agreement, which generally caps weekly hours at 42, with some exceptions for seasonal or small establishments. His schedule revolves around split shifts, so he often returns to his van between work periods. This arrangement helps him avoid traditional housing costs, but it also demands constant attention to logistics. Fuel and parking need planning, as do maintenance and daily supplies.
Anyone considering a similar move should understand Swiss work permits and contracts. EU citizens like Pablo can apply for different residence permits depending on the length of their contract, but requirements and processes vary by canton. The details matter in other aspects of Swiss life, too.
Freedom on Wheels
The payoff comes at the end of the workweek. With two consecutive days off, Pablo and Bellota hit the road to explore Swiss villages and lakeside spots, crossing mountain passes without booking accommodation. He describes these trips as “48 hours of absolute freedom,” a phrase that captures the appeal of his lifestyle. The campervan serves as his weekday base and a vehicle for discovery on days off, letting him change scenery without packing or arranging hotel stays.
This dual use, home during the week and travel base on days off, sets Pablo’s story apart. The model offers flexibility, but savings are not guaranteed for everyone. The true cost of van life in Switzerland depends on individual habits, fixed expenses and local prices. Other Spaniards living abroad have also noted that the balance between mobility and stability is personal and often shaped by work demands.
Context and Considerations
Pablo’s approach is one of many European responses to high rents and rigid routines. His story stands out for its practical focus: decisions about daily routines and travel plans are shaped by his dog’s needs and the constraints of his job. Switzerland adds another layer, with strict labor rules and a high cost of living. Changes to Swiss public amenities offer a comparison: Porrentruy’s outdoor pool has reopened to foreigners, with higher fees, reflecting the country’s careful balance between openness and regulation. The issue is explored in this analysis of Swiss pool access for non-residents.
Pablo does not detail his monthly expenses, but his experience suggests van life offers flexibility and autonomy, not guaranteed savings. For those drawn to the idea, success depends on staying organized and adapting to its demands, while accepting both the freedoms and limits of life on the move.
