Inside Thang's mobile home
Following a long trip, Thang and his wife, Ta Thi Thu Huyen, 38, spent time tidying up their unique home. Thang designed and commissioned his mobile residence, which is built within a truck container measuring over 12 square metres and more than 2 metres in height. Inside, it features a sleeping area, a sofa, a coffee table, a kitchenette, and a bathroom, along with modern amenities such as air conditioning, a washing machine, a dryer, a water purifier, and a small refrigerator.
Thang, Huyen and their two small children
"The truck has been designed like a studio apartment, offering enough space and amenities for my family during our trips," Thang shared. "Over the past three years, we have taken two cross-country journeys and dozens of long trips. Since having our mobile home, we no longer need to book hotels or guesthouses."
From travel enthusiasts to mobile living
Thang and his wife have always been passionate about travelling. However, with the arrival of their three children, family trips became increasingly rare.
"Every holiday turned into a stressful experience, as my wife had to book tickets and accommodation while packing multiple suitcases for the children," he recalled.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, Thang had more time at home and began researching mobile home models. In 2022, he embarked on his first project, converting a 16-seater van into a mobile home for his family's long trips.
He upgraded to a cargo truck a year later to create a more spacious and secure living environment. The transformation cost more than VND1.3 billion (USD52,000).
"The truck's roof has six solar panels to power all onboard appliances. Our water tank holds up to 600 litres, allowing us to travel comfortably for three to five days before needing a refill."
Journeys that strengthen bonds
"With this mobile home, my wife, our three children, aged 15, 5, and 2, and I have more time to talk, eat together, and play. Every trip brings us closer," Thang said.
Thang and his eldest son.
The family have embarked on cross-country road trips for the past two Junes when the children start their holidays. Each trip lasted around two months.
Last summer, they travelled to Quy Nhon, exploring scenic spots, shopping, enjoying local delicacies, or cooking meals in their truck.
Their most recent trip was a ten-day journey to Danang during the Tet Lunar New Year holiday. The family parked safely along the coastline, waking up to sunrises and winding down with sunset views.
A view of a beach in Danang City seen from their mobile home.
"I carry a motorbike and an electric bicycle on board. I usually park the truck in a secure location and explore local life with my son on two wheels," Thang said.
Sometimes, he contacts friends in different regions for travel recommendations.
One of their favourite destinations is Mang Den, a small town in the Central Highlands province of Gia Lai, known for its fresh air, cool climate, and stunning landscapes.
"Mang Den is perfect for slow living and mobile-home travel. Since accommodation options are limited and often fully booked during holidays, our truck allows us to stay anywhere with a beautiful view," Thang shared.
As a business owner, Thang continues to work remotely. He signs and stamps documents when necessary and sends them to employees via express delivery. He often stays longer in major cities with airports and hospitals for convenience.
"If urgent matters arise, I take a flight home, handle the issue, and return the same day," he said.
