Life on the Road with Vet In A Van: Homeschooling, Work, and the Big Lap Dream
Tanya and Marcus from Vet In A Van had a dream—one that many of us share—to pack up their lives, hit the road, and explore the incredible landscapes of Australia. What started as a one-year trip has turned into a full-time lifestyle, with their family growing along the way!
Vet In A Van - From "Maybe One Day" to "Let's Just Do It!"
Like many Big Lappers, Tanya and Marcus spent a lot of time dreaming about their adventure. But when an unexpected offer came in to buy their house, they took it as a sign to stop hesitating and just go for it.
In the space of just six weeks, they went from “maybe one day” to selling their home and setting off on the journey of a lifetime—right in the middle of the 2019 Christmas season.
Little did they know that a few months later, COVID would hit, throwing a massive curveball into their plans. But instead of letting it derail them, they embraced the lifestyle even more, realising that they didn’t want to stop. And now, years later, they’re still living on the road!
Homeschooling: Every Day is an Excursion
With four kids in tow (including Kaia, their latest addition, born on the road!), education is a big part of their journey.
Working from the Road: A Vet & A Tech Expert
One of the biggest challenges for full-time travelers is figuring out how to earn an income while constantly moving. Tanya and Marcus have found a balance that works:
Tanya, a veterinarian, provides mobile vet services and telehealth consultations, helping travelers and remote communities care for their pets.
Marcus, a software engineer, continues to work for Medibank remotely, setting up his workstation in some of Australia's most stunning locations.
"I've been in meetings with executives while sitting in a tent, wearing a singlet, with the beach behind me!”
It’s proof that with the right job and a bit of flexibility, working from the road is completely possible.
The Biggest Challenge: The First Three Months
Despite the picturesque lifestyle, full-time travel Tanya and Marcus admit that the first few months were tough.
“You go from living separate lives—working, school, routines—to suddenly being together 24/7 in a tiny space. It’s a huge adjustment.”
Many families hit a breaking point early on, but sticking it out is key. Once they got past those first hurdles, their relationship and family bond became stronger than ever.
Money-Saving Tips for Lappers
Travelling full-time doesn’t have to be expensive. Here are some of Tanya and Marcus' best budget tips:
Stock up at major supermarkets – IGA prices can be much higher, so plan ahead.
Catch your own seafood – Fishing is a fun and cost-effective way to eat.
Slow down! – The faster you travel, the more fuel you burn.
Avoid caravan parks – National parks and free camps are much cheaper.
Be smart with water – Learn to stretch your supply to stay off-grid longer.
Best Underrated Destinations in Australia
If you're looking for breathtaking, under-the-radar spots, here are some of their top picks:
“Don’t overplan. Let the trip evolve naturally. If you try to schedule every day, you’ll burn out. Go with the flow, and embrace the adventure!”
The Reality vs. The Instagram Dream
One of the biggest myths about the Big Lap? That it’s always perfect.
“People think it’ll be like Instagram every day. The reality? It’s just normal life—parenting, work, and all the usual ups and downs—just in different places.”
The takeaway? Don’t compare your journey to others. Make it your own.
Make sure vaccinations, microchips, and worming treatments are up to date.
Plan for National Park restrictions—domestic pets aren’t allowed.
Be aware of baiting areas (like 1080 poison) to keep pets safe.
Have a pet first aid kit (Tanya designed one specifically for travellers!).
Research tick prevention if heading north—diseases like Ehrlichiosis can be deadly.
Ready to Hit the Road?
Tanya and Marcus are living proof that the Big Lap isn’t just for grey nomads—it’s possible for families, remote workers, and anyone willing to take the leap.
Want more insights from seasoned travellers like Tanya and Marcus? Join the BLC Crew for extended interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and insider travel tips that will help you plan the adventure of a lifetime!
Dr Tania has been a veterinarian for 16 years, working with small animals, unusual pets and wildlife. She has postgraduate training in rabbits, birds and natural nutrition.
Marcus works a remote full-time corporate role, based in Melbourne. He is qualified in computer science and software engineering with an MBA.
Together, they are Vet in a Van, a travelling mobile veterinary service, travelling full-time around Australia with their 4 young children for the past 5 years, whilst enjoying the incredible diversity of locations and scenery around Australia.
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All Around Oz acknowledges the Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the first inhabitants of the nation and the traditional custodians of the lands where we live, learn and work. {SOURCE}
