Following van drivers to their parking spots is a genius move. They always know where to park without getting a ticket, and I've used that trick myself. It cuts down on all the stress of looking for a space during busy times. You really can't go wrong copying the pros who do this every day. This is one of those small life hacks that actually works.
Copying van drivers can backfire. They sometimes park in spots meant for commercial vehicles only. I've seen cars get tickets after tailing a van into a restricted area. Why take the chance when you can find a legal space yourself?