Hey everyone! I have been craving a trip where I could explore Europe for an extended period of time. I'm living in Finland right now and I've been dreaming of a road trip throughout Europe. I was thinking I could buy a van, setup a bed in the back, and take a ferry to Estonia or Sweden and start driving. So I'm wondering if anyone has any thoughts on this. As far as I've figured the pros are that I could go where-ever I wanted, whenever; I'd be able to bring a lot more stuff (compared to backpacking), and if I couldn't find a decent place to sleep I could sleep in the van. I've checked out a few books about caravaning in Europe, and I'm getting kinda freaked out because for most countries the book warns to ''keep doors locked at all times'', ''only park in guarded and locked areas'', etc. And even mentioned that thieves have been known to put sleeping gas through vehicle's grill. 
Other cons would be the van breaking down, getting badly lost (I've already accepted this - even with use of GPS unit), being oblivious to traffic and parking violations, etc. I've also been thinking that I could get some work along the way to replenish my travelling funds. But that's a secondary thing... anyways, any thoughts or advice is greatly appreciated!!
Cheers, Esa