10 Reasons Why Van Life SUCKS
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- Äas pĆidĂĄn 12. 03. 2022
- Sometimes, Van Life sucks. In this video, I break down the top 10 reasons why I sometimes struggle with this lifestyle and things you might consider before moving onto the road full-time
0:05 sometimes van life sucks
0:54 overnight parking
3:00 space
3:55 shower and bathroom
4:37 lack of normalcy
5:30 i got pulled over
7:17 legal stuff
8:20 taxes
9:42 lack of convenience
11:00 lack of privacy
12:44 mail + shipping
13:41 wifi + internet
13:12 breakdowns + maintenance
15:44 the truth about #vanlife
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Hey :) Iâm Christian Schaffer, and Iâve lived on the road full-time since May 2018. This journey began in 2013 when I left the corporate world to build my career as an outdoor adventure & travel photographer. As a semi-minimalist, I eventually decided to donate/sell most of my belongings and move into my 4x4 Nissan Xterra. After 14 months of SUV living and falling madly in love with the open road - I bought a van and hired a team to build it out. Van life enables me to experience and document the beauty of our natural world on a whole new level, all while having my home and office nearby. My hope is that by sharing my own personal highs and lows along this (sometimes) wild journey, you might be inspired to hit the road or spend more time outdoors. Maybe one day I'll see you out on that open road đ
*My van is a 2019 Ram ProMaster 1500 High Roof, 136" WB with 37K miles*
FTC Disclaimer: This video is sponsored by âȘ@turbotax⏠Some links above are affiliate links from which I get a small commission, which does not affect you as a customer at all, but helps me keep on making videos for you guys! All opinions are my own
#vanlife #offgrid #tinyhomeonwheels
Hey guys, long time no see đ€ I've been busy filming/shooting a few new projects, stoked to share with you in the upcoming month! If you haven't filed your taxes yet and want to support my channel, use my link to save up to $15 off your TurboTax purchase. Thanks for being here! go.magik.ly/ml/1fq9y/
Brain Fry... yep, I feel ya. GO SLOW! C More!
Yay taxes!!!!! đ€©
you are amazing. just staying!
Hey guys. As a former tax professional (CPA and IRS Agent) I endorse Turbo Tax completely. If you are not a tax expert and have any kind of business, side gig, etc, then consider using the assistance of the Turbo Tax pro. Also consider one of the many bookkeeping programs, like Quicken, to make records much easier.
I was wondering where you went. Have not see a video in a while.
Still sounds better than working a 12 hour shift, then coming home to my apartment to sleep, shower, and go back to work for another 12 hour shift
Amen
You Stil have to work 12 hour shift because Ăźn old age you Will not be able to live Ăźn a van.I was working between 13 and 15 hour a Day as a truckdriver and it was very hard and stressfull to live Ăźn a van Ăźn the weekends.
This is why Iâm thinking of living in a van tbh.
Well if you work at Walmart you can just roll up out of the van (parked in the lot) for those 12 hour shifts.
actually doing this now. 12 hour shifts. go to van. find a place to park and sleep.
Thanks for your honesty. It's easy to romanticize everything that's outside the norm.
Ha! Never thought I would find you here :D I just came here from your channel.
Everyone but me must learn ur cringe
@@nocucksinkekistan7321 agreed
Dude I see you commenting all over CZcams. Shouldnât you be practicing?!?đ€Łđ€
Keep weirding me out simpy
This girl is spot on with her assessment of van life. I've been doing it over 3 years now. I'm 63, by the way . . . Despite the challenges - the level of freedom it provides is unparalleled.
Yeah. I still want to do it.
After three years on the road in a Promaster, I think the video is spot on. Many communities and police officers exceed their legal authority but who wants to hang around for months to fight with them!?
Hell yeah Brother!
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@@marcelrobert9569 Thank you for this Pointer. It was easy to find your handler, She seems very proficient and flexible. I booked a call session with her.
I've been on this kick for the past few months but this video has made me realize it's not for me. I see lots of deal breakers that would be more trouble than it's worth, for me, personally. I think what I'd prefer is having a permanent residence, owning a vehicle like this, and just take lots of vacations through the year. I'm glad someone had the balls to show what it's really like rather than making it look like you're living an instagram story every day.
Iâd say the pros outweigh the cons, but yeah - there are a lot of things to consider đ€ I think if you can watch this video and think, whatever I still want to do itâŠvanlife is probably a solid choice. But there are definitely days where Iâm like, Whhyyyyyyy do I still live in a van?? đ but they are rare
Can't wash your ass properly... that's a hard pass for me. If people referred to van life by its proper name, homeless, it would be less glamorous đ
Nobody talks about the shit smell that fills up the whole van either lol
I donât think she is that âsomeone had the balls to showâŠâ đ€ but I see that trend of language usage.
yeah it sounds romantic but you do give up a lot. Ill just occasionally check back and watch her/their adventures.
In case you haven't tried this: Stop by the local "Cop Shop" and ask where you might be allowed to park overnight, hopefully in a low-risk setting? In my career as a LEO, it was more common than you might imagine to get these questions, most from truckers, but RV'rs as well. Not only would I help them to find a place, but when working "dog watch", we'd make it a point to increase our presence in the area the person was parked, especially if in a more remote or secluded location. Whenever I did that "dreaded knock", I always tried to offer alternative locations, or, depending on the area, I'd exercise my "discretionary powers" and allow them to remain with a reminder not to do it again!! (Insert sternly wagged index finger here). Fire Departments, EMS / hospitals may also be resource providers. Safe travels!!!
Thanks for sharing this âșïžđđ»
@@ChristianSchaffer I hope you find helpful assistance from whatever Public Safety resources you approach, if you go that route. My experience is more in ultra-light trekking around the country and I've found help from PS folks in getting rides to trailheads (often for just a meal, tank of gas), etc......Most of us in PS work really DID get into the work because we genuinely love being able to assist folks in need, no matter the level of that need. Please feel free to start your conversation off with: "A Montana raised boy who became a Metro Minnesota Law Enforcement Officer suggested I check in with you for........". It may not carry any weight, but I hope you find any assistance you may need, with these good folks. Stay safe, carry on and may you find joy and wonder in all your experience. Blessings.
Iâm a former LEO and I always ask cops where to sleep in my van when Iâm in new areas đ
We need more cops that exercise discretion
Plenty of places to park Walmart truck stops look where truckers park outside truck stops hotel lots rest areas take it from a seasoned hobo
You can park and sleep in the van pretty much everywhere in the US. As long as you dont have anything outside of the van, are plugged anywhere, have any open windows and throw outside any type of liquid.
Im a Industrial engineer (specialized in catenaries and HIgh tension networks) worked in NY for 5-6 years. After a year of paying 3700$ for rent and having to walk each day for 40 minutes to work i decided to mae myself a stealth van. For less than a year of rent i bought myself a ford transit and made it a stealthvan during my month vacation.
THE BEST INVERSION OF MY LIFE.
I lived like a king. Parked rougly 10 minutes of my office, near a supermarket. And never had a problem (for 4 years parked in the same place).
I Saved almost 60% of my income. INSANE. 5 years later i sold my stealth van and with the money i had saved i paid almost entirely a house in my hometown. Now im a Physics highschool teacher, earning less than half i did when i worked in NY, but i got a paid house, all afternoons free and summers off.
Loved your story â€â€
I feel sort of trapped in my current lifestyle, and recently I've been putting quite a bit of thought into transitioning to van life -- Videos like this are quite important, since it gets me thinking about potential problems down the road (all pun intended), and I really, _really_ shouldn't be rushing this kind of decision; hell, that's what got me in my current situation in the first place.
Thank you for posting this!
Youâre not alone, me too
U might need only 2 weeks of van life.
and see which direction it goes.
You'll feel even more trapped in a van
this is actually a gold mine for those who are planning to do van life, its either you'll get discourage from van life or learn from this video to minimize the problem
You white folks are so crazy for living in a vanđđ
Reminds me of the dream vs reality of things like running a food truck. There's this really romanticized ideal that I used to have about that but then I started learning about all the costs and permits and ruthless local competition and safety issues and pretty soon it was like, "well, maybe I should just host regular cookouts from my place".
hey bro where do you live ? im from Los Angeles CA and the food truck competition out here is kinda wild but itws the fees and permits that kill the profits for everyone but i moved to colorado springs for like 6 months and it was wayyyy different. the scene was different , alot of younge business owners just killing it colorado springs. honestly if your food is good and prices are right bruh youll make plenty of cash. i knew a kid (19)who spent all his money opening a taco truck , he had another job and slept in his food truck while he was building it to save on rent hes rolling in cash now. he gets called to construction sites and hangs out at warehouse district or down at the beach. 6 tacos for 12 bucks. plus that all he sells is tacos so it makes keeping your kitchen stocked easy. you can do it bro. what kind of food were you thinking of cooking ?
@@timothy2935 hey, thanks for the encouragement! I live in Moline, IL (part of the Quad Cities along with Rock Island, IL and Bettendorf and Davenport in Iowa across the Mississippi river).
There really aren't very many food trucks here to begin with, so maybe competition isn't so bad here - I'm going mostly by articles and vids I've seen about people trying to get them going in larger cities, I guess. I wanted to get in touch with one of the local truck owners and ask about how things are here. Maybe there aren't more trucks because the demand isn't there, or maybe the fees and permits are just ridiculous. Don't know until I ask, right?
I specialize in fusion and traditional stir fry dishes with rice or noodles. I use a lot of different combinations in those, but I think if I were to try to do something like a business/truck I would really limit it to maybe 6 options, 4 with meat (chicken, pork, beef, shrimp) and 2 vegetarian (tofu and all veggies), and maybe 6 or 7 sauces.
I'm thinking maybe I should come up with a plan to test the waters as far as if the food would even sell, like maybe see if I would be able to set up a small cart or stand, something that wouldn't have huge startup fees and all that.
With all this, I need to come up with a good plan before I make any moves, of course. Up until now I haven't really tried to make a serious plan.
Oh yes the glamour of the food truck
Yep so glorious
Let me go to a parking lot eat something made in a commercial kitchen that wa driven across town slapped together on a flat top served in a basket then I get to eat it at a picnic table
Or I can just order something have it delivered to my house
Never for the life of me understood the appeal of eating off a roach coach
I blame the movie Chef good movie but complete nonsense
@@seanodeli7031 Delivery gets cold.
@@seanodeli7031 , I've eaten food ftom roach coaches for years doing commercial construction. The food tastes great, and not once have I ever gotten sick from the food. I always found the price reasonable, and if you develop a good relationship, they will trust you to pay them back later if you're a little short. I especially enjoy the taco trucks. Nice people too.
I'm really grateful that you made this video, because it does remind me of all the times I encountered those uncomfortable situations that increase your blood pressure and tighten your sphincter. When you're young, it's definitely more of an adventure, but when you get older, there's nothing like having a homebase for peace of mind. Best of luck to you young lady and God bless.
Forever young ....
I love the way you travel together, but separate. Your own space and less anxiety knowing someone is just in another vehicle.
used to - but been solo for the past year and few months now đ
You really nailed this, Iâve been living in my van here in the UK for 2 1/2 years and yes the minute you open those doors someone sticks there head in to ask questions, and the decision fatigue, that really is getting to me, I always knew it was there bugging me but you put a name to what I am feeling, to constantly be aware of your surroundings takes itâs toll as does the constant water rationing and signal issues. Maintenance is a daily thing and a lot of work, my van Is 8 years old and everything is starting to break so things are getting expensive. I canât afford a mechanic so Iâve had to learn how to fix things myself, everything from upgrading the suspension, changing the clutch to fitting a new timing belt Iâve had to learn myself to do as mechanics cost more than plastic surgeons. Thank you so much for this video, youâve let me know itâs not just me feeling this way. â€ïž
I admire you for taking on the added task of mechanical work. That would be my breaking point đ«
@@ChristianSchaffer I was just as apprehensive as you about mechanics, probably more so đ but really had no choice other than to carry out the work myself as I barely had enough money for the parts let alone the mechanics fee. CZcams was a life saver for carrying out the work and now that Iâve done it and the van hasnât blown up Iâm so grateful for those new skills, itâs given me the confidence to maintain my van without ever having to go to a workshop garage. You have a new van though so itâs still under warranty for anything major, you can definitely do things like change the oil and filters, wiper blades etc, itâs only once the van gets past 100k mileage or 5 year mark serious thing might start needing work. Thanks for the reply, much appreciated and good luck â€ïžđ
David you are learning some really useful skills!
I admire you for taking on the challenge!
Definitely beats going into debt!
Decision fatigue is easy to imagine - anyone who's ever walked through a city on their own, and then walked through alongside a resident can see the difference
The uk is way too small and obviously by law you have to park up on private land to sleep. Why did you stay? I'm currently starting this journey, 1st time in a van but i have travelled the world by motorbike so should be luxurious by comparison. I plan to get out of england on the first day possible. I know france openly has places near every town and village to park up and accomodate campers plus wild camping is legal.
Water anxiety, noise, and the dreaded knockâŠ.ultimately, these three factors caused me give up living in my van while trying to work full time in Silicon Valley. Thanks for all of the content you produce and share. Take care.
Yeah I can imagine being in a city full-time would be difficult after a while. My limit is usually one week of urban living before I start to crave desolation
I feel what youâre saying!
The dreaded knock, pesky criminals & brutal Australian summer is why I halted Van life/ full time work in November.
Summer is just about over and my 5th rebuild is almost ready to follow the Harvest Trail in more RV friendly towns.
Iâm surprised we both lasted as long as we did doing suburbia boon docking.
HIGHLY NOT recommended for anyone new to it or in general!
@@chaoticature I got a knock at around 5pm in a retail car park...the security guard said 'I hope you aren't planning on sleeping here'. I was only parked up whilst taking a break before the cinema. Must have been cynical about my level of comfort, cosy with my heater on đ
Why would you have âwater anxietyâ in the city when there are reverse osmosis machines outside of every grocery store and gyms to shower, etc.?
@@chaoticature Iâve been suburban stealth camping since June of 2021 (almost 9 months) in coastal Southern California in a not so stealthy looking Toyota Sienna van. Parking overnight is really not a big deal - as long as you follow certain protocol. Havenât had the knock but worse case scenario Iâll just get up and move a couple miles. EDIT: Having said that, my plan is to get away from the cities as soon as I sell my boat. Iâd like to spend next winter surfing and fishing in deep Baja.
I think you did a very good job of explaining the downside to full time van life. Brava! It is very true and comprehensive. I lived in my Class C for a year and had the same issues. No solar either so it was very tough with two lead acid batteries.
The biggest advantage to van life is that you become very self sufficient and resourceful and an ace DIYer. You travel, see the world, learn to resolve problems and overcome fear of things going wrong. It builds character, enlarges your perspectives, and lowers the angst of living. It affords a view of your natural world, and if you have a small dog, it is heaven for them.
You need to make sure:
1. Your tires have good stainless steel extension valves (for dually), and are strong enough to take the load.
2. You do not exceed the cargo carrying capacity (GVWR) listed on your van specs. If you do, you will get flat tires and sway.
3. Your power grid has to be reliable and work at all times. This is critical.
4. Take an air compressor along with you for remote location travel. Busted tires = being stuck.
5. Enough potable water and a filtration system like a Berkey portable filter.
6. Backup gas stove. Back up small cooler.
7. Fridge has to be 100% reliable - buy Novakool, Isotherm or Vitrifrigo with a Danfoss compressor. This only runs on AC or DC no propane and is very reliable and not so dependent on level parking. Have enough solar to run it. Get the largest fridge you can fit and your power grid can power up. Large fridge = more freedom.
8. Do not buy induction stoves. Stupid purchase. Stick to propane or butane stoves - big or small tank. They always work.
9. Extra tank of gas, shovel, mud ramps, levelers,
10. Travel with a SMALL dog. Best alarm system in the world! Also will wake you up if you have a gas issue, water issue, animal issue, mice, robbers, etc. Be ready to leave in a flash at nighttime.
11. Temperature control is important. Either have a generator to run for AC on hot days, or enough solar/battery power to run AC on solar only (tough one), or go north when its hot.
12. Finding a quiet place to sleep is critical or your health will suffer. Most urban locations are very noisy, so find a quiet urban place and match the rhythm of residents sleeping - early or late. Sleep early, rise early. Sleep is critical and the most important thing. This is what suffers the most. You need safety and quiet. Sometimes, being in a truck stop is good if you can run your generator all night, turn on the AC and just crash for 8-9 hrs of good, deep sleep. At truck stops they all run their gennys so you don't care about making noise. Or make a deal with a warehouse or business that you will be their nightguard for the property, if they let you sleep there. You will have access to water too. They can lock you in at night for your safety. Its a mutual benefit. You could also do house sitting for pets and be a mobile house sitting service (give them a permanent address and references). You get to stay in their house, pet sit, use shower and kitchen and rest.
13. Laundry is a major pain. I have a Class C 22 ft, so a bit bigger than this Class B. If I traveled a lot I would install that new Daewoo wall mount tiny washing machine. Else get a Panda washer and spinner, or just a spinner. Spinning the laundry is key. You can hang dry after that in your van or outside for fast dry. Pick a place with water, hot sun and cook and do laundry in one go. I found remote park sites where I could discreetly hang my laundry to dry on back of van, making it look like beachwear, and refill my tanks as I used up water for cooking, laundry, cleaning. Once a week.
Living full time in a van is tough because you do give up comforts and also a lot of hobbies. But you can rent a space at someone's backyard to park in and use the bathroom, toilet, kitchen for a while between travel, and that is ideal. You can also rent a small space or buy a piece of land with a shed for storage and amenities.
Thank you!
Hi Christian I just found your channel. This was a very good video. You mentioned a lot of things that no other van lifer has ever mentioned. It made me think of things that you actually wouldn't think of until it happens.
As a long haul truck driver, I can relate on more than a few points. And what interested me while looking for van conversion like yours is that is the first time Iâve seen a discussion about degradation over time of the amenities (cracks, loose screws, etc). In a standard highway truck, material donât look as good, itâs often plastic, but it seems to hold better over time. Which annoys me because I planned to get a custom sleeper, essentially with a shower because that's something that would be very practical in my line of work. Itâs related to the same kind of parking anxiety you have, but with different parameters.
Very interesting video overall.
I was just about talk the same thing. As an automotive engineer I know how much car/van/truck bodies will flex and vibrate on perfectly flat highway. And it gets way worse when you go off-road. Some fancy household materials are not just meant for that kind of movement. Thatâs why many interiors are made with plastic, fiberglass and plywood. Then you only have to take care about proper fixings. And please ad some locks to those cabinets, when those slide open during driving they can cause serious damage and danger.
I am frankly surprised you are not in dialogue with other truckers who actually have a sleeper cab instead of this woman. Apples and oranges....
@@atteroljones6936 Do you not find it valuable to get multiple perspectives on an issue? Surely we are better sharing and expanding knowledge than staying within our siloes?
I too was amazed at how things were coming apart and wondering if it was related to the quality of the build?
If u haven't got a conversion van yet. Think about maybe a class c. RV craftsmanship is better than most van builders
This is absolutely the most honest, comprehensive explanation of van life that I have seen. I am years deep in watching van life vlogs. Thus, I hesitate to enter into this type of lifestyle. But when I finally do, it's vlogs like this that will help me properly prepare for van life. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! Very, very helpful!
đ€
don't worry as Only the lucky ones will be living in vans when this nation goes under...
So special! I love seeing and reading,hearing the lives of your generation! I am 77 and slowing way down from my life of vaning all over since my Navy hitch
55 years ago.Been there done that! Just keep goin don"t stop may God bless you and all your endeavors! đ„°
7 year full time nomad here. You are spot on with this info. This is the best comprehensive video Ive seen that outlines the realities of being a nomad. I live in a 1999 30ft motorhome with my husband & our shih tzu(road dawg). Even though we have more room than you do there are 3 of us and Ive found we deal with these same issues. We have a full but tiny bathroom & if you want to stay remote you cannot be taking a shower every day & cook,wash dishes etc. You still practice water conservation and we use planet fitness for the bennie of a long hot shower. We instituted chore day where we pick up mail, shop, do laundry, propane, gas, fill water, empty tanks & shower. Depending on how the city is laid out sometimes it takes more than one day. You really nailed this video. I will be sharing with lots of curious peeps who are endlessly curious about living on the road full time. Thanks for this and new sub!
I lived in my van for only a short time (about 8 months or so), and even in that short time, I can relate to this video:
1. "van life is not for everyone" - yup. Agreed. It is not an easy life, for sure. It is emotionally, physically and psychologically draining.
2. sleeping - that is one of the biggest challenges. Van life people are simply ostracized, and that is putting it mildly. One thing I found disturbing is when you wake up because you never know where you are. You open your eyes, and you go, "where am i?" I don't know if I could ever get used to that. It was ... depressing.
3. When I started, my brother encouraged me and he said, "go and be free". Actually, that is further from the truth. You are not free to do as you want. If you want to do anything (do a #2 or take a shower or eat or clean or even drinking water), you have to make an effort. You have to make sure you have supplies or you have access to facilities, etc. In a van life, you come to realize that nothing is free and living the van life, you are far from free. Instead, you are bounded by duty.
Van life ... it may work for some people. I found out it was not for me. Kudos to those who can.
@@wyldelf2685 "failed middle class American living , , ,"
maybe.
but it really depends on your definition of failed and successful.
For example, I know of a man who has a beautiful wife, three lovely children (attractive, intelligent, of good temperance etc), and a good home. And yet, he is miserable. Why is that? And IMO, he is typical, in that you can find many instances such as himself. Take a look at Sylvester Stallone. He has a beautiful wife, three beautiful daughters, he is famous and he is rich. Guess what? He is now divorced, and he and his wife are quibbling over ... property. Like, really? And I can give many more examples.
Personally, I think, the economics of living in suburbia (the unaffordability, and unsustainability, etc.) are all symptoms of something greater. And what is that? I think people are starting to ask themselves, "Is there something more? Is there all there is to life than just long commutes to and fro from the office and back again, rinse & repeat?" And personally, I think people are saying to themselves "Perhaps less is more."
Like I said.
Van life is not for everyone.
Van life IS challenging.
But van life, does offer some things that you could not attain from living within the confines of 4 walls.
And what is that?
Opportunity.
The opportunity to discover self.
The opportunity to discover the world.
The opportunity to discover the universe.
The opportunity to discover God.
And the opportunity to gain, inner peace.
You make the experience, any experience, what of it, in that you can choose to be miserable or you can choose to make it a life changing experience. It really is up to you.
And van life is no different.
If I had the opportunity to go back to living van life again, would I? Unfortunately, I would have to say no, simply because I don't have the right temperament. It takes a special person to flourish in van life, and I am not one of them, sadly enough.
Not knowing where you are when you wake up sounds so exciting!
@@evanalmighty6972 lol. maybe. for some. for me, it was unnerving.
i dunno. maybe in a different circumstance, it would have been exciting. :D
@@robertlee3778 Sorry I get van that van life has its drawbacks but it just sounds like you never had much responsibility when you lived in a house. Living in a house requires you to do things all the time as well, cleaning cooking, getting food, paying bills, maintenance etc etc. so you are still bound by duty. Living in a van means you have less stuff to dictate your life but instead you have other duties to take care of eg upkeep of the vehicle and where to park every night.
@@chatteyj yeah ... no. I am living in an apartment, currently, and I do everything myself - cook, clean, go shopping, laundry, pay bills, etc.
My second brother came and visited me for a week when I was in the van. In the end, we both chuckled at my oldest brother, and our inside joke was "Be Free". My second brother said to me, "when I get home, I am going to open my fridge and then I will say to myself, 'I am free'." We laughed.
If I had to do it again, live in a van, I would get a completely different setup. At the time, my Eurovan was breaking down - the fridge stopped working, the water tank plug was not working, etc. Living in _that_ van was a constant battle, of worrying about resources. If I had to do it over again, it would be completely different. I would make sure that I would have at least a 40 gallon tank of fresh water, a shower and toilet, working fridge and freezer, ample power supply and solar panels.
I get your point. I agree. Living in a van, you manage your time, differently. You are less inclined to be on the internet, watching netflix or youTube or whatever. And yes, I agree with you - when you live in a van, you are more inclined to meditate and have more quiet time.
Guess what, though. After living in a van, I find that I can do all those same things such as self-reflect and mediate, all the while while standing up and doing chores around the apartment because I live alone. I am no longer afraid of being alone. I am no longer repulsed by silence. Now, all of these things, I welcome and cherish.
.
I still stand by my original post.
The difference between living in an apartment, by yourself, and living in a van, by yourself is that in an apartment, you are not restricted by space and you have access to virtually unlimited resources. Shopping? I can buy as much as I want because my fridge and storage in my apartment is virtually limitless, as compared to a van. You still have to do all the same things in both situations - cook, clean, shop, laundry, etc. But it is far easier to do so in an apartment, hands down.
.
Would I ever go and try living in a van again? Absolutely. Of course I would. But I would do it in a completely different setup.
Thank you for the open honesty. I think it's so easy to dream of van life (I do it all the time) but stuff like legal, normalcy, and loneliness is soooo often overlooked. I appreciate the honest communication. It really helped put things into perspective!
Glad I stumbled upon this video, I have been contemplating about the "Van Life" after selling my house due to insane house market, left my job because I got tired of working 10yrs in the same setting (I worked as a nurse in the busiest hospital in the city). Currently working as a travel nurse, so driving/travelling a lot and loving it. This would be a big adjustment for my family but at least we don't feel "stuck" or 'chained down'.
Are you able to park in the hospital parking lots/structures?
If you have kids DO NOT get into van life. It's horrible for them.
Great vlog. Very accurate. You are a person who adapts and looks for the bright side of things. I believe that these are survival traits.
I loved how you made fun of your video skills from the early days of this lifestyle. Thanks Christian.
This is a good example of how living too simply makes things more complicated than if you lived more complicated.
The reason i never got intrested in van life, is the point what you do and what happens if shit hits the fan. For example, you get sick from some food poision or just have the common one week flue. Where do i go, when i have often and sudden needs for a toilette? What do i do, when my short supplies on bord run out and iam in now way able of driving a car? Where get i fresh cloths from, when i have no washing machine? How do i make it to the pharmacie, when iam stranded in the middle of nowhere?
@@wilhelmpfusch3699 If she had a rv that was modest in size it would fix a lot of that. Having enough room for storing enough clothes so you only had to go to a laundromat once every two weeks, Having a legit bathroom inside, a decent sized fridge, plenty of water storage and waste water storage. Maybe store a motorcycle or scooter on the back. Would make life way better and would not limit her travel too much.
@@moabman6803 Step One: Have a Shit ton of money.
I haven't got a clue what you are on about. Less is more.
@Symixable rvs are not where its at. Out of the frying pan in to the fire.
My 18 year old son watches all the 'van life' videos and thinks he should buy one and live his life like this. Of course all these videos make it look like so much fun and adventurous, which probably a small part of it is. Thanks for showing the truth!
I did the same thing as your son. I ended up doing it and I absolutely love it!
Your kid is 18. Let him live how he wants you psycho
Seeing her in this video, I can see why your son would want that adventure
Let the guy live his life
@@ov4457 Are you still loving it?
Stumbled upon your channel, and really appreciate you sharing your experiences, and behind the illusion of Freedom (Van Life). Great production too! Thank you.
Right from the get go I know Iâd love this video cause you start off with answering all the questions I have! Thank youâ
This was a great video. You are down-to-earth and straightforward, honest without exaggerating or dramatizing. People romanticize nomadic lifestyles and downplay the little things that have a big impact on mental health. It's so important to anticipate these things, know yourself and know what you need to stay happy and fulfilled.
I like how authentic and honest you are about talking through all the challenges . I have lived for 10 days on the road in a car and tent in National parks and campgrounds. What you said makes so much more sense now. I used to think lack of normality is not that big a problem and going to laundromat is fine. But just 10 days of moving around camping makes realize it is definitely challenging. And the decision fatigue and the feeling of missing home (a somewhat permanent place to yourself )is very real. Sometimes I just want to chill and hide at home especially during crappy weather.
The crappy weather factor is huge
Me also, I had 4 weeks of van life, we were two. Thank you, that's all. And I even didn't drive many of these 5438 kilometres we made...
Hi Christian, great video that brings realistic perspective to anyone who's only thinking how great it is without remembering that there's always 2 sides to a coin.
I'm so envious of tiny living & van life though I also knew that unless I could be financially independent + sustainable, my dreams of living in remote locations with breath-taking views gotta wait. Oh, I also wanted tell you that I've followed you on Instagram and noticed your photos are so beautiful! It's also a colour theme + nature theme that I love, I mean your photos on Instagram. Thank you for putting up this video, I'm sure it's benefitting many people out there as it so inspires one to consider what we want in our lifestyle.
Wonderfully thorough and candid. Thank you for this deep dive. My wife and I live in a tiny house on wheels (off-grid) and I can relate to more of what you said than I expected to.
This was actually good. As an ex van-lifer I can agree to basically everything that was said here. The most irritating thing for me was STREET NOISE. Even though I tried to soundproof my van when I built it using special acoustic insulation and various techniques, the noise while parked caused me to constantly have elevated stress levels, which affected my health very negatively and ultimately required that I quit. It sounds extreme but I can assure you it was very real (even with ear plugs). Not having reliable access to hot baths, something I love, was also bad. Not having any friends because you're always moving is bad too. Lack of proper climate control or sufficient electricity were also things that really stood out, although the recent Toyota hybrid vans could solve these issues. edit: I'm actually considering a Tesla model Y instead of a hybrid, because the hybrid makes noise when it comes on to charge the battery. According to my calculations, a Toyota Rav 4 Prime plug in hybrid can generate about the same amount of electricity on a full tank as a Tesla stores in its battery. So I'm thinking maybe a Model Y with the rear seats removed and a James Baroud on the roof rack.
I don't have much friends anyway so. But the noise that's bad, and no silence even with ear plugs? I don't have a bath in my home right now, do miss it sometimes. I'm going to build my Van, as soon money arrives somehow
Have you tried sleeping with wireless earphones and white noise?
Solar panels or solar roofing rolls bolted or glued to the roof give several hundred watts to build up batteries for power. I want to travel so all ideas are considered because life on the road doesn't look as easy as videos make it seem. Noise is one that will challenge me for sure.
The operative words here..."ex van- lifer"
I want to start van life, what are some things you loved loved loved abt it? And I can deal with the noise I love the street noise it puts me to sleep.
Well presented, I lived the lifestyle seasonally for about 20 years as a field biologist; familiar with all the difficulties as well as the bliss. The basics are the issues that can get you down: like a wet week and a space full of wet gear, or the looks you get in town after a week, or more, without a shower, ( I recall a visit to my sisters once after a month of timber cruising, she offered to do my laundry...then informed me it was a good thing she loved me because that is the only reason she could bear the stench) or having to eat the same food for days on end to reduce waste ( especially so if, like me, you demand real food and don't eat from a plastic bag or a can).
thanks for the honesty, these need to be discussed more than the good stuff, to help people.
great filming and editing, looks awesome. the mouse stealing the knife was wild.
Great video, you paint a clear honest, tough yet grand lifestyle. LOTS to it. Enjoy each day, good for you.
Most excellent! I'm often annoyed by the "perfect life" stories presented by others. It's not perfect, it has its challenges, and sometimes it's exhausting. But...I still love it! Really appreciate your honesty and hope "wanna be" nomads catch this.
This is such an informative video! I almost bought a van 1 year ago, but my family told me to first use my car to experiment. I realized van life was not for me when my anxiety peaked on the first day from the overwhelming outside noises, my disgust of driving in traffic and fear of the dark. So, van life definitely is NOT for me. Good luck to you!
Such an informative down to earth honest videoâŠbeing true to yourself as all we see is the good parts but you have nailed the van life doing it for so long now. Thanks for this posting!
I appreciate your perspective and experience in Van Life. I cringed with you when you said that the constant sound of people and traffic are annoying. These are great challenges to consider before transitioning to Van Life full time.
Wow this has been so helpful. Iâve never even thought about things like decision fatigue and lack of community. Thank you for sharing!
"Living out here on the road, you start to feel like your living on the fringe a little bit, kind of disconnected from society and a little bit of an outcast." YES!!!!! And that's exactly why I want to start living the nomadic lifestyle. Too much craziness in the world these days to want to be a part of "normalcy".
Being disconnected does have its perks đ€
Yep "normalcy" can be the reason to run away from Vanlife, and for others to embrace it (I'm in the latter camp)
It's why I do it! - I work and save a shed load of money! - And I do what I want :)
The world isn't normal.
Yes.
the most comprehensive assessment of van life. thank you!
So true. Decision fatigue. As a solo traveler, I'm so tired of making a million decisions every week. Some are easy with little impact: eggs or oatmeal? Some are huge: new tires or repair the refrigerator? and the long reaching impact can be disastrous. So tired.
It can be overwhelming at times đ
Wait till you have kids.
This is an informative video that people aspiring to live in a van must watch. When people post videos or photos online, they are posting their best ones for the internet to see. What viewers often don't see is the laborious, non-glamorous side of this lifestyle. If one wants to get into van life, they must understand all this or else they can inadvertently turn what they love into a grueling full time job with a precarious future.
She's good, isn't she?
It's because people rush into full timing in a van then get huge lifestyle shock & then quit
Silly to spend thousands on a build because it not full time living in it, it feels "wasted"
One can rent a uhaul van go camping fot a weekend, see if it is for them instead of jumping in unprepared...then wondering why it's so 'hard' to adjust
This is why so many "vanlifers" on youtube give up after a few weeks, months (or pretend to live in a van for more clicks$$revenue)
Blind people trying to milk whatever is trendy
I would hate only being able to take dumps in public toilets.
@@Kangaroojack1986 how about a bucket full of sawdust lol
@@stevejeffrey11 đ , not a bad idea!.
Thanks for the honest and authentic content. Everything in life has it's compromises. For some it may not be the right decision . For me, It's worth the tradeoffs. Going full time in a few years when I retire. Keep up the great work Christian!
The pros do outweigh the cons most days đ
I'm 23 years old here but full time van life sounds so rough and too hard for me. I crave the adventure and going to see new places, but I think having a "home base" is a good idea. Staying for a few weeks somewhere is a great idea however!
đđ»
@@ChristianSchaffer AHHH SHE REPLIED! Thank you! â€ïž
Just do road trips
This! it is all about balance imo.
â@@jharrelphotoAgreed! Balance in all things in life is the key. â€
Every lifestyle has its drawbacks. Thanks for being honest about it. Keep enjoying it while you can.
Great video, brutally honest! While many of us understand "van life" is trendy and the cool thing to do these days, I absolutely love my class A motorhome (fully equipped home on wheels) while towing my Jeep 4x4...Don't feel like I'm missing or stressing about anything you've mentioned. Of course every version of RV life has it's unique challenges, tough to park 36' class A anywhere you want, but that's where the Jeep comes in! Kudos to you for living your life, keep up the great content...Safe travels!
This was one of the best videos Iâve seen regarding van life. I also gotta admit I kept watching because your van is super cute. But you highlighted some real sacrifices that come with a nomadic lifestyle and only a few people get to even attempt to do it. You have a great eye for directing and editing and thatâs something that deserves merit all its own. Cheers to you and your adventures.
Great video. Knocking over the Aeropress made me laugh. I did the same thing on my second trip in my brand new van and spilt coffee including the grains all over the bed and cabinet.
Love this video. I love the idea of living in a super small space where I could go when I want but after watching a few videos like these I think I need to reconsider. I appreciate you talking about the mental stress of having to figure out where you're going to park, sleep, poo, shower, get groceries, throw away waste etc stood out to me. I'd prefer the ease of knowing where I'm going to do some things I consider basic and not having to think hard about it on a regular basis.
I recently took a 16 day southwest road trip and was largely inspired to do some of it alone by you and your videos. I got the tiniest taste of what you must experience and wanted to say thank you because your videos really prepared me for an experience that was outside of my comfort zone. The decision fatigue was a big one and it might sound silly but I thought many times, if Christian can do this everyday, I can certainly do it for 16 days. As always, love your videos đ
Thank you for sharing that đ„Čđ Would you say it was a good trip?
@@ChristianSchaffer it was wonderful! I saw so many new things and had adventures I wonât forget. Most importantly it gave me confidence to travel more on my own and while I donât think van life is for me, I did find I love being out on the road. Time took on a different quality and the best I can describe it is to compare it to time as a kid. That sort of suspended quality where days never end feeling that I think gets swallowed up by daily life as adults. Definitely need to make it back to White Sands as I ran right into a big storm. I so admired your photos and videos from the park!
Great, glad to know you are off the road!
I love your videos and love the lifestyle. I've started weekend car camping and am hoping to expand eventually to full time. As always, love your content and appreciate you sharing. Fellow introvert here so it's all relatable and glamorous in my mind despite the inconveniences. Have a great day!
Thanks Kristin đ€ I think weekend car camping is a great way to test out this lifestyle. If you can make it two weeks and you still love it, you'd probably do just fine full-time
How did you get started with car camping? Iâm interested in trying it myself.
@@CraftyBookNerd85 I just got a jackery, window screens for airflow, a USB fan, and a camp stove and packed up my suv with the camp essentials. Maybe start somewhere close to home in case you don't love it. Fold down your back seat and sleep on an inflatable pad or lots of blankets. It's great and ioverlander is helpful for finding a place to park for the night.
The decision fatigue is so real đđ I never knew how to describe this before!
Excellent, candid, balanced evaluation.
Thank you, Lady!
One of the most comprehensive well presented and casual yet professional deliveries of a "reasons why van life sucks" videos i've watched to date and I've watched a lot! đ€đ Well done.
appreciate you!
Exactly the true life
Great, glad to know you are off the road!
it makes me realize the big picture: what humans have had to endure througout centuries in order to find some kind of confort and security. It's clear to me now that things "established" by society are there for a reason, to preserve ourselves:
1. people needed to be near water so they were nomads searching rivers.
2. Comunities got "settled" near water and it worked
3. people needed better acces to running water inside houses, so they invented aqueducts
4. People needed someone to give maintenance to those aqueducts and other amenities and government and law structures where established...
So we have: bills and taxes to pay, roads to run, governments to vote for and so and so...
Society was built over certain needs.
đŻ
The quote "necessity is the mother of invention" sums up everything you said.
@@randybobandy9828 and I owe, I owe so off to work I go!
How much could we really live without but our culture says we need it!
I just downsized from a 45 foot toy hauler to a host mammoth truck bed camper. Iâm amazed at the room I have for everyday living, I just can have as much stuff with me. But thatâs what itâs all about. Your van setup is amazing. Great job designing. Simple and clean. Except when the coffee spills!đ”âđ«
I extremely like the video, man. Very helpful and informative. Thank you very much. It is presented so well too. Great, positive work.
AWESOME! Very well done! This is what everyone who has an interest in this lifestyle needs to be able to hear . . . every life style has its challenges and trade-offs, being able to see an honest reporting of those . . . from someone with the degree of experience as you have is priceless. Most of my experience has been tow behinds and RV parks interspersed with driveway camping and short term remote, van or truck, camping -- a week at a time.
You are AWESOME, love your content! And i appreciate you putting your life out into the public domain for others to soak up and appreciate. If you ever need a breather and you are in Northeastern Alabama area . . . we would extend the farm for you to crash and chill, walk the woods, play with the dogs, cows, chickens, etc . . . -- we have have camper hookup, water, electric and septic.
I understand your problems, dilemmas and need for solving your supply requirements on the road. I know this because, before I retired, I was a long-haul truck driver. And just know that living in a house requires lots of effort too. As an example I just had to have my chimney rebuilt. So my advise is don't sweat the small stuff. And enjoy the life you're living on the road while you're young. The first insulated coffee mug I bought when I first started driving said "the open road never looked so good." Still have it.
Haha! I am glad to hear everything you shared. It definitely helps pop the van life bubble.
Really do appreciate the honesty regarding van life. I donât think I want to be a full-time van-lifer, but I do want to spend a few months at a time out on the road once I retire. With that said, you have provided some great insight into dos and donâts that will help me prepare my rig (whatever type that may be) and mind for when that day comes. Thanks again for the honest perspective, and be safe out there.
Iâm going to be living on the road for about a year in an RV and have been researching how some of these logistical problems can be handled. Receiving mail is my latest obsession. Thanks for the video and for keeping thing real, even if you love the life.
Did you find a solution?
Great vid, and gave me some nostalgia for the year I spent as a tech-nomad circumnavigating the US and Canada as a sound designer and composer for cartoons. I had an app outlining all of the safe walmarts/cracker barrels etc, plus the ones that weren't. Parking meters in cities that are free after 6 pm were handy. For showers, I did what she did, with the addition of slipping into a KOA which is quite easy and no one really cares. Bucket bathing is fine too. A list of national forests is great for free stays, and make sure to get CAA.
Thanks for the terrific video. You have a great van. I appreciate your honesty, and know that van life is a good experience overall.
Hi Christian,
I so far have listened to you living! I myself got a stroke, so my whole life changed. I would like to move every two months and then back to hospital. I would rather live in a forest, but not here in Washington, they would not let us. Living in a trailer or whatever is a lot of work. I have built a nice wood camper, now I am thinking of building a motor home with my truck. I am not into new rigs like campers and other, they have to many issues to go wrong sooner than ones know. I know lots of folks live in a rig and make money from whatever ones is doing to make more money. I am not a lot of extra buying anymore, in our state in Seattle Washington sucks! I have lived here 64 years and now ready to live on a rig every two months. I will keep watching your videos so far. Best of luck for you! Thanks!
Fred
As someone facing homelessness, van life seems to be the alternative to soaring rent prices and requirements... 3x the amount of rent, good credit, landlord references for past 3 years. It makes it difficult wondering if you can keep up on your rent payments or if you'll be evicted which will make it even harder to find a new place. This video definitely helps show that it's not necessarily the "easy" solution to having some "sense of stability". However you do a great job of explaining the potential problems as well as the solutions showing that with some grit it is possible.
I have considered it for the same reasons, but decided against it bc here in the US the laws, tax structure, and corporate interests seem pretty hostile to full time mobile home living, despite the fact that much of our infrastructure and GDP has historically been built by mobile home dwellers. Just look at the mobile home industrial complex that is designed to squeeze every dime out of the poor and force people onto the streets and into prisons. It could be a completely different situation if the government wanted to make it easy to be mobile but they choose to make it difficult.
@@alexba1ley You seem to be referencing mobile home not Van Life. There is a big difference. What is being shown in this video is Van Life. To do that you need an investment of a decent amount of money to get a van and make the van a home. You then need the money to sustain the van. Things like repairs, fuel, memberships to gyms, money for park entrances or camping spots, etc. Van Life is not a cheap way to live. It is more mobile, and it is fun at times, but it is definitely not a cheap way to live. Mobile home on the other hand are a different ballpark. Usually mobile homes aren't really mobile. They are mobile homes because they are moved, pre-built, onto the site where they are set up. Rarely are they then moved again. Mobile home parks then charge rent or fees to keep the mobile home there. They can be cheap, because mobile homes are much cheaper than regular homes, but they usually are missing some things like well insulated walls and solid foundations.
it's a good fall back to have a van set up to live in temporarily and travel in until you find a more stable place or situation
@@HighFalutinTootin But it isn't cheap unless you do find free or cheap parking.
You like that ukrainian nazi bot shit
Thanks for a great insight to "the dark side". Apart from the delays and hassles of mechanical problems, there is the ever present possibility of an accident. Some years back I was walking the dog and I came on the sorry sight of a small motorhome that had run into the back of a truck. The truck was not damaged, and had already left the scene, the couple in the motorhome were OK, but their "home" was sitting in the middle of an intersection, in a pool of its own bodily fluids, and going nowhere anytime soon. I was able to offer some assistance, and help a little with language complications, but they declined my offer of somewhere to bunk down until things were sorted. I often ponder what happened to them.
Trying to decide if this is a good fit for my first year or two of retirement. Great content. Will watch more as I consider, and I appreciate your honest insights. Thx.
This was helpful information. Thank you for your honesty.
I could picture myself struggling a lot with temperature. Sleeping in a hot vehicle night after night just sounds brutal.
Yea, its a thing for sure, Im always chasing spring and it works most of the time, though july through mid august really hard to have a steady cooler weather, but 10-11 months of the year are manageable đ
I've been trying to write a story about a group of young adventurers living on the road, and this information has been amazing.
Uk or usa or ?
I looked at your stills and I'm blown away. trying to pick one I like the best! You sure make it hard though, I like so many. Beautiful work Christian!
I think this was the first time I watched the sponsor part of the video. It was so relevant to your lifestyle that it just seemed part of your explanation.
I appreciate videos like this so much. They do make me a bit more trepidatious about bus life, but I think that's a good thing. I want to know what I'm getting myself into before I do it.
So glad you found it helpful đ
This was so interesting!! Thank you :) I've always fantasized about living in a van but wasn't sure how to make it work as a full-time content creator... especially with receiving packages from brands. This answered a lot of my questions!
(also your van is BEAUTIFUL đ)
I wouldn't date a chick who lived in a van. She would always wanna hang out at my place because I have a normal place with alot of space. And on the road traveling couldn't trust her to be loyal. Big đ©
@@iaintgonlie7858 Don't worry, none of us is concerned whether or not you'd date us, since none of us would date you in the first place đââ
@@olimaki8268 Why not?
@@iaintgonlie7858 I know it might be hard for you to process, but no one cares
Thanks Sarah â€ïž (sorry my reply is ages late đ)
I have no intention of ever living in a van (especially being over 70); but I find your videos very interesting, and enjoy the warmth in your presentation. Thanks, and all the best.
This was a super interesting video and definitely brought up some stuff id never really thought about with van life. Im too much of a collector to ever consider it seriously. Id rather lose a hand than my books and such, but i have always considered getting a van for extended travel.
The thing i really applaud you for though is the laundry. I lived for a while in an apartment with no laundry facilities and had to rely on laundromats. After a few momths of that i swore to myself NEVER AGAIN
I was once sleeping in a motor home near Fresno, CA when I heard something and looked out the window. There coming through the trees I could see a group of guys with baseball bats. I ran to the front and nervously dug out my keys. Just as the gang reached the doors, I fired up the engine, threw the coach into gear, and sped out of there.
I've also lived in my car and once had someone walk up to my door and watch me sleep. Another time out in the wilds of New Mexico, I awoke to gunfire. Turns out, I was camping on the back side of a mound used by locals for target practice! These are dangerous situation which should be avoided if possible. Anyway, security is one thing people need to consider when living on the road...
Dang that first story sounds pretty hairy. Glad you made it out alright!
@@ChristianSchaffer What's funny, Christian, is that I was in nothing but my boxers, driving around town trying to find somewhere to stop at one in the morning. So glad I didn't get pulled over...
Loved this and knew about most of this. My wife and I are building out a transit van this year to start early retirement in a couple years. We have camped and RV'd for 40 years so know a lot of this. We are building ours with a full bathroom/shower setup and 30-40 gallons of fresh water so some of your issues should not be an issue for us. Mice in the engine is something I want to try and stop. I'm also one of those people that wants to check out other peoples vans but I do try to control that. If I did run into you on the road I would want to chat because I am a Hobby photographer and mainly photograph wildlife and landscape and would love to see your work. Enjoy your videos and finally subscribed today.
The difficulty of mobile life is also having car issues... especially getting to work and if your vehicle isn't running properly it's hard to get things done...thankyou for sharing... I love this video đŻđ
Great video, thank you for putting this info together and sharing â€
From living on a boat I can suggest the bucket washing method. Fill bucket with warm water. Wash face then dunk hair in it to wash hair with shampoo and rinse in bucket. Then stand in bucket naked to wash all body. You may need a second bucketful to fully rinse hair. I preferred doing this to going into a cold shower room in the marina or campsite.
What I do is alternating days washing hair one day ,body next. Started this living "off grid " in Peace Corps. Also cut down frequency of both. We are excessive in US.
i'm pretty sure she does that.
What Iâve done in desperation when Iâm rushed & donât have time for a shower, is to spray a washcloth almost to the point of dripping, with 1/2 & 1/2 vinegar & 70% isopropyl alcohol, and have a sponge bath. Leaves my hair squeaky clean and the rest of my body too, but need to follow up with some good lotion because itâs quite drying. Baby wipes for more delicate areas.
I love how you really talked about vanlife struggles, I feel most channels focuss only on the positives and never really touch on the negatives and problems you can face. I definitely think you have to really want that lifestyle for sure and always have a backup plan if anything goes wrong.
Thanks Lisa, it's a balancing act for sure đ€
Thank you for showing the realities of road life
And I love it because of the challanges. The daily adventures. Improvise, adapt and overcome. Keeps me on my toes.
I was nomadic for roughly five years of my life so I understand the ups and downs of the lifestyle firsthand. For the last four years I've lived in a more "normal" lifestyle and I've come to realize that neither life is perfect. I think it's fair to say that life will always have those moments of pure joy, and also those moments of pure frustration thus creating a contrast that gives value to life itself. I have a saying that became my mantra: "Attitude determines altitude," which to me meant that how I chose to perceive my conditions was the way they would be judged in my reality. I think that those of us with the "nomadic" chromosome will always crave the adventure of the road even though we need the rest of a more typical life from time to time. Great video and I definitely thank you for your time and effort!! I pray you stay safe and blessed as you walk about :)
First video of yours I've seen. Thanks CZcams recommendations! đ
I first moved into my van 4 years ago. Things are a little different in the UK, like a legal address needing to be an actual address. Local BYLAWS catch people out when it comes to parking and camping, even when UK "law" is the same all over.
For me, getting water is the hardest thing... even in the city. I still work full-time, so I fill up a caddy there.
Biggest annoyance is *still* my friends and loved ones trying to rescue me from vanlife!! đ
Thank you for posting this. It does neutralise the glammy way of van life a bit, making it feel more real. I've been a nomade for more than one decade. But I prefer to stay atleast a few months/half a year on the same place. Some of the points you bring up are the same for short-term contracters too. Like for instance signing up to a regual activity, establishing an irl network, creating your favourite spots where you can return to, regardless if it's a café, dentist, optician or just a general health clinic. That being said, you get comfy by changing places and adaptable, quick to find your base. The yoga has been my foundation, as for simple things like colorful carpets and pillows and curtains. It makes a home anywhere.
Some of these points hadn't crossed my mind; great vid!
Iâm in college but I always wanted to spend a year or two (realistically: a summer) on the road with a friend or SO and just explore the country. I could never see myself doing it permanently, but much respect to those that do!
Never did the van thing, but did live as a âdrifterâ for awhile when I was taking a break from school. Was sleeping at different places, crashing at different peoples houses and basically in between jobs, apartments, and so on. I thought that this was something thatâd be a fun adventure, as I thought that kind of spontaneous lifestyle would be liberating.
In reality, I learnt itâs actually very disorienting to not have a stable sense of home over an extended period of time. Having a âhomeâ I think is a basic human need, and I donât think something like a van can truly feel like a home. After awhile I felt incredibly anxious, overwhelmed and experienced a lot of existential type depression.
Well saidâŠI felt the same way!
Same here, even though it was only 2 3 weeks of wild camping for me that is already more than enough
Good video and advice. I lived in my 1998 BMW 528is for nine years, but stayed at a cold shelter in Turlock, Cal, for a few days each Christmas when it was really cold, and I also stayed at a homeless shelter in San Jose, Cal for 90 days in 2013 which is there limit every six months, and a homeless shelter in San Luis Obispo, Cal for 30 days before you have to be selected out of jar to stay that night. I really disliked being homeless, and I have IBS-D so I need to be close to a bathroom in case of an emergency which was hard to do in cities with ordinances against camping in a vehicle.
Thank you for pointing out the parking issue, I couldnât agree more. Van life vids rarely address this topic and itâs the most obvious challenge when living in a vehicle.
Great presentation. I used to own a Dodge van and used it to visit places I never would have been able to see any other way. I traveled extensively around North America living in the van, and when I did my 1980 trip, I was out 37 straight days. The experience was fantastic, but towards the end, I remember thinking that you need some place to come home to and that was just about my limit. The grand total from numerous excursions amounted to several months on the road and I don't regret a minute of it, but you can get burned out from being a roadie. BTW, right after I got the van (it was glass all around too), the first thing I did was to put up privacy curtains.
I agree with the outcast concept. I've been living in motels for 3 years travelling for work and it's the same feeling.
Your video was very honest, you made it very clear what is so annoying about Van Life, i was living in a Van for 12 months, and then i had enough of it : )