Life on the road: converted budget eurovan as trip home

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  • čas přidán 8. 09. 2024
  • At 25 years old, Robin Raindropcatcher had never owned a car and didn’t have a driver’s license, but he dreamed of turning a van into a mobile shelter. When he lost his job and his “dream flat” in Vienna began to weigh on him, he moved in with his mother, passed his driver’s test and began converting a minivan into a new home.
    Spending only about 700 euros, Robin used chipboard to create lightweight furniture and foam and reflective foil for insulation. His roughly 50-square-foot shelter now offers: a “living room/bedroom” (a convertible couch becomes a 2-meter long bed), storage cabinets that double as a dining/tea table, a lean kitchen (a propane camping stove), and an even leaner loo (a plastic water bottle for the “small stuff”; trips to cafes for the “big stuff”).
    With his new home on his back, Robin headed south from Vienna for Italy, France, and Spain and points beyond (he video blogs about his travels). Boondocking in big cities hasn’t always been easy, but he’s been surprised at how no one seems to notice his converted shelter, even with the doors wide open (particularly during tea time).
    Robin's blog: aboutwings.com/...
    Original story: faircompanies.c...

Komentáře • 312

  • @rustedcompass
    @rustedcompass Před 9 lety +9

    "We are born with nothing and we will die with nothing." I like the way this guy thinks, he values experiences and memories above accumulating material things.

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety +1

      Nailed it! Thank you for your lovely words :)

    • @deejeff8846
      @deejeff8846 Před 6 lety

      And this too shall pass....nothing lasts forever but the earth and sky....Kansas

    • @nluvke8725
      @nluvke8725 Před 5 lety

      Van Living.

  • @TheDenisedrake
    @TheDenisedrake Před 9 lety +43

    These videos are so interesting and gives me security knowing that if all my finances tank, there are alternatives to living in a house or apartment.

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety +1

      Glad, my interview could give some perspective (together with all the other amazing videos, Kirsten puts out there) :D

    • @campervandavid
      @campervandavid Před 9 lety +1

      TheDenisedrake Yea as long as you have the right gear you can make it work just fine. Even my set up is not perfect but has worked out pretty well.

    • @deejeff8846
      @deejeff8846 Před 6 lety

      Where there's a will there's a way

  • @vlk40
    @vlk40 Před 9 lety +5

    So wonderful to see these young people with their heads on straight! I wish him all the best in his adventures

  • @bealtainecottage
    @bealtainecottage Před 9 lety +11

    "Change is the one thing that powers this world,"I agree with Robin. Continue following your path, for it is YOUR sacred journey! Blessings XXX I chose a different life over 10 years ago and it is wonderful to be able to live one's life! Planting a permaculture food forest on 3 acres is my life now.

    • @darlenecole3292
      @darlenecole3292 Před 6 lety

      Bealtaine Cottage

    • @RozyInRialto
      @RozyInRialto Před 5 lety

      To prevent mild on your mattress drill holes in the platform if the bed so air gets between the mattress and wood

  • @theIAMofME
    @theIAMofME Před 9 lety +1

    I loved what you said..."We are born with nothing and we die with nothing. All we take with us is our memories and experiences." So true. I would love to travel in a camper. But, I know nothing of motor up keep and such. Plus, I'm older with grown children. It couldn't work for me now. But, I sure think about it sometimes and dream. Like you said...the world needs to change. YOU are one of the ones helping to change it. Thank you for that. :D Much love to you along your journey young man.

  • @campervandavid
    @campervandavid Před 9 lety +5

    I agree with Robin. It's always interesting to see people just pass right on by as I am cooking dinner in my van. They get so caught up in there own lives that they don't even notice me sitting in my van cooking dinner or watching videos on my laptop.

  • @OwnYourOwnBus101
    @OwnYourOwnBus101 Před 9 lety +2

    I lived like this for a summer here in California. The freedom was amazing but also a little strange - to not go "home" at the end of the day - that took a psychological toll on me. Finding parking was annoying and I didn't always feel safe in different parts of the city. I saved a ton of money and I don't know if I've ever felt more secure and stable as far as finances are concerned, but I've also come to appreciate a warm shower, heated room and comfortable bed. I could do it again but I would outfit a little more comfort into the living space and try to find a somewhat steady and safe parking location. I've put together a lot of sketches on how to make this kind of life work better for me. It is a way of life. Thanks for posting!

  • @obeszter
    @obeszter Před 9 lety +2

    Oh wow, I really like the way this young guy thinks of the world! This lifestyle is so simple, but yet so amazing! Robin, God may bless all those kms behind and ahead of you, every step you take! I wish you to enjoy every moment of your life, and have good luck, and smiley on your face every day! :) Cheers, love, Eszter :)

  • @loricrouch1076
    @loricrouch1076 Před 9 lety +1

    The way he speaks about life gives me hope that the next generation may affect positive change.

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety

      I do hope with you. And I'm happy I could give you little hope, Lori!
      If you enjoyed this video, you might want to join the adventure on aboutwings.com where I document the trip :)

  • @LadyPenelope
    @LadyPenelope Před 9 lety +5

    "We are born with nothing, and we will die with nothing" simply profound statement....when given enough thought, makes you realize no-thing really matters. Robin, I adore you.

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety +1

      Thank you for the lovely words! Oh a lot matters. To me, it's the footprint, that we leave here. As Chuck Palahniuk said it so well: "We all die. The goal isn't to live forever, the goal is to create something that will."
      Stuff usually only distracts from creating meaningfulness ;)
      If you enjoyed this video, you might want to sign up for my newsletter on aboutwings.com where I document my entire journey :)

  • @77Tadams
    @77Tadams Před 9 lety

    I really like this kid. He has it figured out. :) Makes me happy to know there are free spirits out there doing amazing things with their lives.

  • @NailsBuiltDifferent
    @NailsBuiltDifferent Před 9 lety +1

    the clothes in the pillows is a GENIUS idea! must remember that :)

  • @junocomm
    @junocomm Před 9 lety +1

    I went to the blog after watching this video. The freedom must be nice. I'm considering doing this myself.

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety

      Glad to hear, you checked out my page! Make sure to sign up too. I'll give out a lot of helpful travel and van life advice very soon. That way you won't miss it. Live the dream :D

  • @suzanallen2790
    @suzanallen2790 Před 9 lety +4

    I'm a 70 yr old granny and find myself struggling in today's economy. I live in an RV because it's what I can afford. Many people who started out with a plan for their "golden years" get waylaid by medical bills, job loss or divorce and have to start over. Not always so simple to buy a house and wait for it to appreciate.

  • @tinderinc
    @tinderinc Před 9 lety +46

    God bless this guy and his will to survive, its sad to see what man has come to just to live day to day this is a hard working guy who can't even afford the cost of rent... that right there should tell you the system is flawed... especially if I can write this 5 beer deep

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety +18

      Thank you for your kind words!
      For a big part I chose this life too. It wasn't only down to rental problems :)

    • @marcosmachado6091
      @marcosmachado6091 Před 9 lety +1

      About Wings I suggest you to subscrive the channel LivingTheVanLife. Chad, the vloger has a lot of useful tips in his videos. Look for the videos where he explains about his sleeping bag and the buddy GLP heater. He subscribed a gym to have acess to shower, I hope the tips helps you. Maybe you should use other type of insulation, cause styrofoam is good in hot places, but in think its no so effective at cold places. Please, do apologize any errors in my english, I am not a native speaker.

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety

      Marcos Machado Your English is rather good, don't worry :)
      I know him already. I must admit I did unsubscribe him at some points cause his videos tend to be quite long and monotone, in my opinion... But I've researched a lot about the Winter problems. We are simply limited, when it comes to that. I'm just trying to get into warmer areas instead now :)

    • @xShirokamax
      @xShirokamax Před 9 lety +2

      About Wings I couldn't really see the top of the van, since none of the video showed a good angle of it. But have you considered putting a fan/vent at the top to help with the heat and humidity?

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety

      ***** Thank you! Yeah, I've also talked to a family of four, living on a sail boat and it sounds like an amazing experience! Power to you! :D
      Shirokama I was planning on getting a vent, but sadly I ran out of time in my small race with the approaching Winter. So I had to leave Austria before I could get around it. But I have to say, not that I'm in a war area, I don't really have that problem anymore. I just open up the door every now and then. The main problem was really, that warm I was on top of the mattress and the cold air was beneath the wood, the mattress was lying on. That's the condensed water, I was talking about. It builds up between wood and mattress. A vent wouldn't help much either with this. Sadly Kirsten left that part out ;)

  • @DBoyTommie
    @DBoyTommie Před 9 lety +1

    I wouldn't mind seeing more van dwelling/mobile tiny home videos! Very interesting.

  • @JerryBlizzard
    @JerryBlizzard Před 9 lety

    Good job Robin. I rode Harley's & lived with them on the open highways for 25 years. Often a 6' x 8' plastic tarp was the only roof that Harley and I had to stay dryish in bad weather. There was always another road to travel, and another hill to climb. I wish you luck, as the gypsy life was great for me also. Now, I am retired and enjoy walking everywhere.

  • @ExploringAlternatives
    @ExploringAlternatives Před 9 lety +14

    This is great!! Thanks for sharing with us =)
    We're doing the same starting in May this year. We'll be living and working full time in our van in Canada. All our working gear will be powered with solar energy!

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety +2

      So great to hear from other van dwellers or those who aspire to become one!
      I envy you for your solar power. i hope I can come up with the money for it soon :)
      If you are looking for some tips about how to travel on a small budget or how I deal with the van life, feel free to hop over to aboutwings.com :)
      Robin

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety +1

      Love your channel, btw!

    • @ExploringAlternatives
      @ExploringAlternatives Před 9 lety

      Thanks Robin =) For sure we're really exited about having solar power. I think it'll greatly improve our van life experience...lets just hope it works! We definitely always need small budget tips so we'll go have a look at your website right now. Thanks!

    • @gitaayu1046
      @gitaayu1046 Před 6 lety

      Exploring Alternatives m mm oke

  • @CameronKerrBocher
    @CameronKerrBocher Před 9 lety +2

    Reminds me of days in an old 70s extended Dodge cargo van just traveling and seeing what was out there. A very liberating and educational experience.

  • @surayagriffithsdiary57

    May he always be happy wherever he may find himself. Stay safe in your humble abode.

  • @animalier2949
    @animalier2949 Před 8 lety

    Most people feel the need for a job, but as a young person, it is great to travel around. Some people have on-line work.

  • @Burps___
    @Burps___ Před 9 lety +2

    I had a full-sized GM van and slept inside it on a hammock strung diagonally from one front seatbelt anchor (the one by the ceiling over driver's shoulder) to the opposite side back seat belt anchor. My buttock was only about 4 inches off the floor, but it was super comfortable, could be clipped up with carabiners in one minute, and easily out of the way completely during non-sleep time. 😑. This is a great video. More power to you, young man.

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety

      And thank you for more power, of course :D
      And yeah, I was considering the Hammock. I just really like harder sleeping surfaces and I tend to get cold from below, lying in them :)

  • @blastshieldaddiction
    @blastshieldaddiction Před 9 lety +1

    I heard, or read, that placing cat litter in sport socks and laying them about the vehicle absorbs some of the moisture. It's cheap and flexible. Most likely you'll have to use at least two socks per, a sock inside of a sock, to keep the litter from spilling out. Positioning them near the windows where the condensation builds up the most was suggested.
    Good journey, be safe & cheers.
    P.s.
    Chris Farley would be proud of you... ;)

  • @VonCarnivore
    @VonCarnivore Před 9 lety +1

    Good stuff. I have lived out of a van before, but not the full blown way you have. I did it for a few months and I enjoyed it. Def a learning experience.

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety

      I love hearing other people's experiences. Did you go on a road trip? :)

  • @margaretjames4589
    @margaretjames4589 Před 2 lety

    I so enjoyed listening to this young van lifer...this person's opinion about life so important..'thouroughly enjoyed this video..👍

  • @MsCaleb79
    @MsCaleb79 Před 9 lety +4

    Amazing! I live in a Mazda 626 -98. That´s freedom for real.

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety

      Great to hear! Let's connect? :)
      You can find me on aboutwings.com

  • @RaJo6697
    @RaJo6697 Před 9 lety

    I like your response to the "what are you running away from" question.

  • @afghan1mystery
    @afghan1mystery Před 9 lety +1

    I really enjoy these videos, he seems super sweet and although I find such a life quite enticing, I can imagine it must be very difficult doing it alone. Safe travels and good luck!

  • @OutThereOutLook
    @OutThereOutLook Před 9 lety +1

    What a nice idea. It'd be even better with a fold up bicycle on board. Park up and explore further. And your extremely right that the safety is illusion. If you lose your job how much can you keep. Just like the dido song "if my life is for rent, then nothing i have is truly mine."

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety

      Sadly, there is no chance of getting a bike in there. Even if it's foldable.
      But I must say, I'm quite happy with my skateboard for now :)
      Thank you for the great suggestion, though!
      If you wanna see more of my adventures, feel free to hop over to aboutwings.com :D

  • @Seaci2012Mar21
    @Seaci2012Mar21 Před 9 lety +1

    Running away from a "cookie cutter" existence is a way to phrase it.

  • @JoseWojciechowski891
    @JoseWojciechowski891 Před 9 lety +1

    Stay strong brother I wish you the best and keep smiling.

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety

      Thank you for your kind words! My smiling rate has only increased over the last couple of months :D Best to you!

  • @cantstandcraig2
    @cantstandcraig2 Před 9 lety +3

    Young free spirited idealism, although I'd be willing to bet he will not last another year living this life style or at least not in this van. Beware of the mold. He talks about people not having choices to live the way they want, but this is not true. He is living proof. He is choosing to live in a 6x9 van with a moisture problem.
    Don't get me wrong, when I was young I would have gladly undertaken an adventure like this, but I chose to live in bad neighborhoods and pay rent. Now, I am the guy he talks about with children, and a slave to a mortgage, house, gas, electric, water, garbage, insurance, and cable bills, but I am happy.
    Good luck to you youngster.

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety

      Mold problem is resolved for the biggest part. And I agree with you, every form of existence comes with compromises. And in the end it's about being happy. I'm just trying to keep my path as free as possible to simply change my mind about my lifestyle, if I feel like it :)
      And it's been almost half a year and I'm rather happy. I admit, that at some point I will probably switch for a bigger van, though :)

  • @clo_beanery
    @clo_beanery Před 7 lety

    This kid is brilliant. So inspiring

  • @Tam.I.am.
    @Tam.I.am. Před 8 lety

    Kudos, young man. You have an outlook that I can hear with more than my ears.

  • @RVFreeDa
    @RVFreeDa Před 9 lety +1

    What a adventurous young man! I wish him the best.

  • @sapphiresunshine1
    @sapphiresunshine1 Před 9 lety +1

    Awesome video and I like your home in your van. I’m buying mine soon and I can’t wait to move out and live and travel.

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety

      Always love hearing from people who are planning to start out in a van as well!
      If you need some tips: I share my own travels and advice on aboutwings.com :)

  • @kiyonahthundersong828
    @kiyonahthundersong828 Před 8 lety

    To help a little more with condensation inside the van, he can simply place a small kitty litter box full of kitty litter that is mostly clay, under his bed. It soaks up moisture much better than tea bags. It needs to be part of the routine to just wipe the walls of dew drips several times a day. Even when its cold, he should leave a window cracked. If all else fails, he can buy a small heater that doubles as a dehumidifier, for vans.

  • @leraginasian
    @leraginasian Před 9 lety +1

    thanks kirsten. you should show us your place.

  • @chriss.9398
    @chriss.9398 Před 9 lety +4

    Wow he is really cute and seems like really sweet person! (I honestly never thought i would say that about another guy before) oh well lol I wish him the best that life has to offer!

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety +2

      Thank you for your lovely words! I appreciate it a freakin lot :3

  • @tinabeane
    @tinabeane Před 9 lety +1

    Great van setup and way to live his life, very insightful for such a young age.
    Keep on traveling!
    Tina

  • @AFBudgets
    @AFBudgets Před 9 lety +1

    he is cute and seems like a fun guy

  • @ilpensatoiodimarco5544
    @ilpensatoiodimarco5544 Před 8 lety +2

    "we born and die with nothing, and the only things you can take with you are memories and experiences"

  • @mauricepowers3804
    @mauricepowers3804 Před 7 lety

    Love this guy and the way he thinks.

  • @2000talon
    @2000talon Před 9 lety +1

    Keep on living the good life...we've all been conned :)

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety

      Don't worry. I'm enjoying this far too much to give it up ^^

  • @yahoodlums
    @yahoodlums Před 9 lety +1

    Robin, you are awesome! Keep living your dream, man.

  • @anwidocu
    @anwidocu Před 9 lety +1

    Cool concept, also greetings from Upper Austria!

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety

      Haha, wie toll! Ich hab eine komplette Episode über Oberösterreich, falls es dich interessiert. Das ganze Abenteuer gibt's auf aboutwings.com :)
      Liebe Grüße aus dem verhältnismäßig warmen Valencia :)

  • @thelordhearsthecryofthepoo1202

    Well done young man, you are talented and an inspiration

  • @gkling33
    @gkling33 Před 9 lety +1

    Love it. Great guy. I appreciate his point of view. Thanks Kirsten for the great work (again). Bravo.

  • @TheDtfamu89
    @TheDtfamu89 Před 9 lety

    I could do this! Shed the mortgage, bills, work when I want, how I want. He's like a turtle with a shell on his back.

  • @chrisniner8772
    @chrisniner8772 Před 9 lety +1

    The only way to keep moisture from building up is to ventilate. They do make heat exchanger vents for houses to keep from losing any heat.

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety

      Totally agree. Problem has been solved by now :)

  • @JasonPMartin
    @JasonPMartin Před 9 lety

    Clothes in the cushion case is genious!

  • @AlexFoster1454
    @AlexFoster1454 Před 8 lety

    I am very inspired by this young man

  • @kirstyswt1512
    @kirstyswt1512 Před 4 lety

    He makes a lot of sense .. God bless💖👍 hope you guys stay safe and healthy...😇✨🔥

  • @eveharris30
    @eveharris30 Před 9 lety

    I thought wisdom came with age until I started to meet old fools. These young people are achieving in such an early age what people die trying to grasp.

  • @EDTHEWATERGUY
    @EDTHEWATERGUY Před 9 lety +1

    For those cold nights,you should get a Mr.Heater portable propane heater.They run off of 1lb propane tanks and are really efficient and cheap.You can get them for around $100 and the propane tanks are around $5 and will get you a lot of heat out of one tank since you are only heating a van.
    You could also save alot of room by adding a rooftop tent or adding a rooftop loft or even a simple rooftop storage / luggage container.

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety

      Thanks for the tips! I have been considering a little gas heater like this, and I came to the conclusion, that it just feels a bit unsave in such a little room. In the future I'll give my best to go South sooner anyway :)
      And yeah, I'm actually considering a bigger van as soon as the money's found me. And then it'll most likely be an elevated roof of some sort :)

    • @a049806t
      @a049806t Před 9 lety +1

      Can't use the heater indoors without ventilation though. You might be able to heat the van and shut it off before going to bed. That's what Chad does. Can't leave it on in there though.

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety

      Yeah, that's another point. Falling asleep while it's on, would be a no go ;)

    • @robvannNS
      @robvannNS Před 9 lety +2

      Tom Stone This one you can... in the US it's approved for indoor use as it is equipped with a low oxygen cut off. I use mine with a vent open slightly and a window cracked just in case but also to cut down on the humidity.

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety

      I'll consider it for next Winter, Rob Vann :)

  • @Burps___
    @Burps___ Před 9 lety +3

    Craig S. Roberts book, Ten Consecutive Years Living In Cars, five bucks, Kindle, is amazing! Example: He signs up for multi-location, wide-based 24/7 gym membership to solve overnight parking and showering issues (plus workout). Hundreds of tips about ventilation, insulation, mold, food storage, tire maintenance, window blockage, police avoidance, etc. I have no affiliation, it is an astonishing book with info that only a man who worked surveillance and lived in his car could ever come up with. Kirsten, if you could ever find him & interview him, it'd be amazing; he's a counterculture legend for that book. ✌️

  • @combedpubes
    @combedpubes Před 9 lety +10

    I love this channel some really interesting subjects, cheers.

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety +2

      I totally agree! I've been following Kirsten for years. You can imagine how overwhelmed I was when she approached me for an interview :)

    • @combedpubes
      @combedpubes Před 9 lety

      About Wings I missed this reply because it didn't come up in my google thing but yeah I just found it a month or 2 ago. I hope to do something similar very soon, great to see you enjoying your alternative lifestyle, good stuff man take care :^)

  • @HoboAhle
    @HoboAhle Před 8 lety +1

    so inspiring! It just goes to show how much someone has the power to make their dreams come true :)

  • @amandastephen5471
    @amandastephen5471 Před 9 lety +2

    cooking with a crocpot its wonderful so many heallthy options and no propane needed.

  • @RobThePlumber
    @RobThePlumber Před 9 lety

    Another fantastic video. Thanks Kirsten.

  • @ohfullers
    @ohfullers Před 9 lety +3

    When life gives you lemons...Make a converted budget van as a free camping home.

  • @ariesred777
    @ariesred777 Před 9 lety

    Being free is an illusion.Feeling free can be achieved anywhere.

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety

      I totally agree! To me, this is one part of my freedom :)

  • @ms.gutierrez6294
    @ms.gutierrez6294 Před 7 lety

    so loved your video.... !!!! Do what u love and bee free like bird....!

  • @lucrtrvl
    @lucrtrvl Před 9 lety +2

    I've heard that rice is good for absorbing the moisture.

  • @nesekaba
    @nesekaba Před 9 lety

    It's interesting how he talked on change. I need to be stable in most areas of my life in order to make change in the places that matter. So I need to be stable in my living situation and have a home base so I can focus all of my energy on changing the world bit by bit into a better place.

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety

      I have heard that perspective quite often too. Meditating is a great way to get more aware of the change around you too, if you prefer to stay settled :)

  • @TBBTQuotes
    @TBBTQuotes Před 9 lety

    Aww he's such a lamb :) I Wish you well friend

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety

      An orange lamb! :D
      Thank you :)

  • @leel9186
    @leel9186 Před 8 lety +1

    Think he is missing the point... he says "I'm worried" a lot. Surely the point of that lifestyle is to eliminate stress? Credit to him though. It's a life experience.

  • @NARM82
    @NARM82 Před 9 lety +1

    I've heard using cat litter in a sock works well to absorb moisture.

  • @JayHaurat
    @JayHaurat Před 9 lety +8

    I've been contemplating doing the same for similar reasons, just haven't yet.

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety +5

      Go for it! It's been totally worth it for me so far! I'm documenting the journey on aboutwings.com
      You can also find lots of tips about the van life there :)

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety

      cool beans :D

    • @hadrian270
      @hadrian270 Před 9 lety

      About Wings I really hope more people support your Patreon page Robin! $35 is a good start for only one month in! I am 25, poor, living out of my Airstream camper, and even using Patreon and the internet as my primary source of income just as you! I wish you the best man! It's great to see people actually MY AGE living this lifestyle! Don't let life, capitalism, or the troubles of the road get you down! It's all just about life experiences man! Keep going!

    • @JayHaurat
      @JayHaurat Před 9 lety

      About Wings hey, I have a couple of qualms that have stopped me from jumping into this adventure already. It would be great if you could give me some feedback.
      a) I've got debt to pay off so need to be making money, is living in a van, and finding seasonal work easy to do, and consistent?
      b) I'm hesitant about selling my car, to buy a van, just in case I don't like it. But I can't have both.
      Ps I live in Australia and have subscribed to your channel for more info.

    • @hadrian270
      @hadrian270 Před 9 lety +1

      Hey Jay, you might want to check out Aussie CZcamsr "jimboandgary" as they are traveling across your country as man and goat pair. ...And I don't mean to intrude on the conversation but I'd also say be sure to save up a bunch of money because work/money isn't usually consistent.

  • @crashmagnetmusic3035
    @crashmagnetmusic3035 Před 9 lety +1

    Just a thought, Robin should find bands that need roadies, He could travel along with them and make money at the same time. I think the only hardship I see for him is money for Gas Food etc.

  • @3270bigjoe
    @3270bigjoe Před 8 lety

    open bags of charcoal briquettes and place them in a cloth bag,will help with the water build up.

  • @kiwifashion
    @kiwifashion Před 9 lety +9

    He could do odd jobs for restaurants a few hours a day too to make a Lil extra. Good luck to him tho its a nice choice for a single guy.

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety +4

      I am doing little local jobs every now and then, if it's necessary. I try to focus as much as possible on the documentation of the journey on aboutwings.com too :)

    • @kiwifashion
      @kiwifashion Před 9 lety +1

      About Wings ;) enjoy ;)

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 8 lety +3

      ***** Since you answered just now. I'm now focussed on doing web design work for clients. So the money problem is now completely solved ;)
      Oh, and I'm not single anymore. We are actually about to get a bigger van :)
      Seems like everything is coming together just nicely ^^

  • @lacsa727
    @lacsa727 Před 7 lety

    Like Always.... AWESOME Video Interview. He has a GR8 HUMOR and Lots of Truth within Him... So glad to see more and more people recognize at a YOUNG Age and make the Change Sooner than Regretting Life Forever the way (Us old timers) are doing now with Lots of Wasted Years Behind Us because of Work(Not secured) and the Old Mortgage(that weighs 100 Tons over our shoulders). TFS

  • @BorysPomianek
    @BorysPomianek Před 9 lety +1

    You could try finding a sort of country side garage workshop kind of thing and ask them if you can help them out in exchange for some knowhow and being allowed to use tools to improve your van - they could have a lot of interesting ideas how to fix some of your issues like the moisture one - you just have to find a place where they dig your general idea.

    • @BorysPomianek
      @BorysPomianek Před 9 lety +1

      IronicallyVague If he improves the way his insulation is done and installs some kind of air circulation then it could be sorted out. Water vapour will escape on it's own if you let it but it's also important not to have thin films near each other, especially where two temperature extremes meet because that leaves a gap for moisture and mold to hide in. It can be improved but it requires a lot of trial and error.

    • @BorysPomianek
      @BorysPomianek Před 9 lety +1

      ***** Maybe the meaning behind his name is not that his chosen attitude is to be vaguely ironical but that you get to find irony in him being vague.

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety

      No fights, guys. I knew about the risks of mold and I still appreciate it a lot when somebody goes the extra mile for my health :)

    • @9amStudio
      @9amStudio Před 9 lety +1

      About Wings yep, and a tsp of apple cider vinegar will clear up molds in your system quick.

  • @LittleManAiden
    @LittleManAiden Před 8 lety

    This guy is a philosopher

  • @maxsiehier
    @maxsiehier Před 8 lety

    it's an amazing lifestyle!
    i hope to live in a van next year.
    but once again, i watch a lot of these videos and all the van interiors are pretty bad, except for a few.
    i mean,
    - get a large water tank and a sink (so you can have running water)
    - get a big cooler box for food and drinks
    - get solar panels for electricity
    - and a stove (but you have got one already)
    it's really not expensive at all...
    this way you have got everything that you'd have in an apartment
    except for a shower
    but you can shower a the gym
    and wash your clothes at a laundromat

  • @vapurl9330
    @vapurl9330 Před 9 lety

    Very insightful point of view about the world for someone so young. Cherish the years when you are young and physically able to live life on the move. Having had a military father and a military husband, I am thankful for those years of moving around, but am equally thankful for a more traditional life in my older years. There is something to be said for living in a community and becoming a constant part of it. So enjoy the nomadic adventures now and we will hold the fort down for when you decide that kind of life no longer works for you. We all have our place in this world, whether moving or standing still. By the way, your English is very good.

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety

      Thank you for the great comment! Very true! As said in the video: life is all about change. I go with what feels right in the moment. That may be settling at some point in the future. But I don't think that'll happen any time soon :)
      And thank's for the compliment. I've lived in London for one and a half years. Good place to learn ^^
      And thanks for sharing your story :D

  • @diannefitzsimmons9027
    @diannefitzsimmons9027 Před 9 lety +1

    I agree that change energizes.

  • @penguinchick6563
    @penguinchick6563 Před 9 lety +1

    i "get" him. ty for the video. this will be my future :)

  • @slashnburndotcodotuk
    @slashnburndotcodotuk Před 9 lety

    The secret to condensation is simply not to allow ANY warm air to come in contact with a thermally conducting surface, by thouroughly (meaning NO gaps) insulating all metal surfaces with thin triple layer insulation, or the thicker foam and foil type held in place with spray on contact adhesive, filling any and all gaps around joins and strengthening members with strips, or off cuts, of the tri-ply insulation, and expanding foam. Line that with plastic sheeting, available really cheaply from buiders supplies, then line it with 6mm ply, using short, self drilling screws into the strengthening members to hold it in place. If you`ve made a good job of it, you could end there and simply paint the ply, or leave it as it is. If not, duct tape all joints, and using roof lining felt, and spray adhesive, line the ply. This will make things super insulated, and acoustically dead. Apart from windows (make small troughs to collect the condensation) you will find it warm and dry in winter, and much cooler in summer, as the hot metal surface of the van, does not pass the heat to the interior.
    All of the steps I`ve outlined are easy to do, using cheap, and readily available products, and can be broken down into separate steps as the funds allow. With the hardest part being the cutting of the 6mm ply to fit right and make it look tidy. I suggest you use CAD (Cardboard aided design), and make templates.
    Also, ventilation is important with controllable inlet at floor level, and outlet at a higher one.
    Hope you stay dry and comfortable for a long time. Happy travels...

  • @caryngayfield6218
    @caryngayfield6218 Před 9 lety

    Try an Icelandic wool blanket to fight the cold. It has to be Icelandic wool because it is superior for stopping the cold and damp. l have one I made out of cut-up recycled Icelandic sweaters which are handsewn together by me and it is really warm.
    I also knit and crochet sweaters and other items made of Icelandic wool. Wish I could make something for you so you can keep warm : ) Icelandic wool products are immediately warming to the body but self regulate to your body's temperature.
    Camp/hardware stores also sell moisture absorbing products for your immediate environment.

  • @_S-O-S_
    @_S-O-S_ Před 9 lety

    Thank you Kirsten!

  • @deezynar
    @deezynar Před 9 lety +1

    Whatever medium he uses to absorb moisture during the night, he needs to remove it from the interior during the day so it will dry out.

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety

      That's exactly what I did :)
      Thanks for the tip!

  • @mysurlytrucker7510
    @mysurlytrucker7510 Před 9 lety

    I think sleeping bags would solve a lot of your bed making hassles, I lived in a class c for a couple of years , I found putting a camping roll under my mattress helped stop the condensation , it's a fun life . But tho it may go against how you perhaps think about this life style , a bit of organisation will go a long way , to making it work better for most people , good luck .

  • @dphotos007
    @dphotos007 Před 9 lety +1

    He is young and now is the time to explore like this. Not my kind of living and after awhile he might get tired of living in a van. MDF is not the best material where there is a lot of moisture changes. Mold and expansion are issues. It would be interesting to do a follow up with him one year from now.

  • @greenlovingmom
    @greenlovingmom Před 9 lety +1

    Ahh, to be so young, and free...

  • @bobbybaldeagle702
    @bobbybaldeagle702 Před 8 lety

    put absorbent clumping cat litter inside coffee filters and staple them shut... Then hang a few of them around... IT WORKS GREAT!!!!!

  • @burningmanmike
    @burningmanmike Před 9 lety +2

    thank goodness for those with free spirits. perhaps austria in the summer, and winter in southern parts of europe?

    • @Lejmej
      @Lejmej Před 9 lety +1

      IF you visit Sweden vi have something that's called "Torrbollen"... It's a small device that sucks up moist and they work just fine. No electric, no mechanical thing just a "sucker" for moist...

  • @emilyrugman8457
    @emilyrugman8457 Před 7 lety

    lovely guy, great outlook on life ❤

  • @joannetaylor2327
    @joannetaylor2327 Před 9 lety

    Take a little time out to line the metal surfaces inside the van with a suitable vehicle liner that is pliable. It's cheap and simple to apply using a spray glue and a sharp knife. CZcams it if you need tips on how to do it. Just make sure it's well ventilated when applying. This should eliminate most if not all of the moisture and dripping. I converted a camper myself and never had a problem with damp even though it was single glazed. Damp will affect your health in the long run especially if spores start to appear. Love your life style and outlook. The planet is in a terrible state at the moment. I feel like it's not worth bothering preparing for the future as the shit is already hitting the fan big time. Self sufficiency is going to be the only way to survive. Get used to surviving on very little as it might not be a life choice for many in the future! Good luck, happy minivaning! PB UK.

  • @2campercamper
    @2campercamper Před 7 lety

    Well done dude!!!

  • @Nr1hater
    @Nr1hater Před 8 lety +1

    i would just go to italy, spain in winter where it is relatively warmer.

    • @adventurevanconversions
      @adventurevanconversions Před 8 lety

      +Otomārs Lieldaikts Maroni people are not smart enough to get it :) Austrians are very closed minded

    • @Medes06
      @Medes06 Před 8 lety +1

      Most of the video is in Spain.

  • @lucrtrvl
    @lucrtrvl Před 9 lety +1

    I want the life style you have! I need to figure out about my cats first though. That's my problem - I am very attached to my pets and feel responsible for them. That is keeping me leashed to my house. And this life makes me anxious and worried all the time.

    • @Aboutwings
      @Aboutwings Před 9 lety

      I understand you. I had similar problems, when I was settled in my former flat.
      Actually, there is a young couple travelling with two cats in their RV. Look for Gone with the Wynns.
      If you want to learn a lot of tricks how to get started, you might want to check out my website and maybe even my book. I haven't covered pets yet, but you just gave me the idea for a future article. Thanks for that :) aboutwings.com

  • @oh_kale_yeah1199
    @oh_kale_yeah1199 Před 6 lety

    Have an anchor and travel at the same time! Yes!

  • @TulasiLovesFruit
    @TulasiLovesFruit Před 7 lety +1

    To properly deal with the moisture and *CONDENSATION* issue the van needs an air vent on the roof over the sleeping area like a Fantastic Fan or a Marinco Day/Night Solar vent to allow the moist air to escape. 💦💦💦💦💦💨💨💨💨💨

  • @thecrazymanfromireland

    Great video well done

  • @DayDrifterTV
    @DayDrifterTV Před 9 lety

    loved this... thank you

  • @lynnen264
    @lynnen264 Před 9 lety

    Excellent channel, thank you

  • @Gevedon
    @Gevedon Před 9 lety

    Traveling the World and seein' some stuff!! ;b

  • @goldieratliff6812
    @goldieratliff6812 Před 6 lety

    Love 💕 you’re video hope it gets a lot better for you