How Cheap can Vanlife be? | This is how much I spent after one Month of Van Travel

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  • čas přidán 27. 05. 2024
  • $800 for 30 days of Traveling in an Astro Van
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    Gas: $407
    Food: $149
    Entertainment: $30
    Necessities: $233
    --- TOTAL: $819 but rounded to $800 for simplicity
    That's how much I spent while traveling! Really it wasn't too bad going as cheap as possible and it clearly paid off in the end because I spent MUCH less than what rent would cost and will be able to have plenty of money to continue doing this for much time to come.
    If you're thinking about doing this, just remember to stay cheap and don't be afraid to sacrifice those things you don't need!
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  • Krátké a kreslené filmy

Komentáře • 863

  • @robideals685
    @robideals685 Před 3 měsíci +398

    If you get a membership at planet fitness you can access any location for showers and workouts for like 20 some bucks per month.

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci +81

      I’ve thought about that. Planet fitness is probably the most wide spread gym out there right?

    • @robideals685
      @robideals685 Před 3 měsíci +15

      @@bgrace27 i think so! probably some different national options also

    • @HazeePagadizzle
      @HazeePagadizzle Před 3 měsíci +16

      Yup Planet Fitness is the way to go!

    • @MattHadder
      @MattHadder Před 3 měsíci +19

      I'm from Los Angeles and am in Northeast Tennessee. Will be living in my van, but not traveling. I've seen planet fitness across the country. Plan to get a membership to shower and use equipment for preparing for hikes.

    • @laglossautoglass2719
      @laglossautoglass2719 Před 3 měsíci

      Were you in Tooele county?

  • @driverguy7
    @driverguy7 Před 3 měsíci +229

    I've been homeless several times in my life. And I know I can survive on about 60.00 a month. No fancy food, lot of beans and rice. Find a place to keep out of wind and rain. Been there done that. Have a good week, looking forward to your next journey!

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci +17

      That’s so awesome man, very impressive

    • @youdontwanttoknow5203
      @youdontwanttoknow5203 Před 3 měsíci

      You're robbing your health with just beans and rice. You need protein, vitamins, minerals. Sure you can live cheap, but you're going to pay in other ways.

    • @withoutwords8136
      @withoutwords8136 Před 3 měsíci +1

      @@bgrace27 taking a shower every day has a very negative effect on the health of every person because it washes away the protective properties of human skin

    • @theonlyonestanding8079
      @theonlyonestanding8079 Před 3 měsíci +21

      Boy you must have been gassy eating those beans every day 😖🤭

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci +7

      @@theonlyonestanding8079 😂

  • @TheSearcher24
    @TheSearcher24 Před měsícem +24

    Here is a cool tip for food.
    Costco gift card, you can shop without a membership...
    Buy in bulk for a month and then food prep it all.

  • @moreclips805
    @moreclips805 Před měsícem +10

    Go buy an “america the beautiful” pass. It’ll give you free access to all national parks and federal day use areas. It also gives you 50% off federal campsites. $80 for the year, so two or three NP entrances pay for it.

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před měsícem +1

      I actually have one! You’re right, it’s very much worth the money, I love having that thing around

    • @I_Am_SciCurious
      @I_Am_SciCurious Před 23 dny +1

      I didn’t know about the pass and I’m practically around the corner from the Tonto park in AZ. This is so awesome! Thank you for sharing it!

  • @Aurelisk
    @Aurelisk Před 3 měsíci +63

    Baby wipes "washing" is also a good way to stay clean for cheap.

    • @voxxian
      @voxxian Před 2 měsíci +6

      better to just pay $10 (or 20 if you want access to multiple gyms) a month for a gym shower to actually get clean. if that's unaffordable, then there's bigger things to worry about

    • @Xiallaci
      @Xiallaci Před 2 měsíci +4

      Whats even cheaper is using a small towel anf soap water. Also, less waste. And gets you arguably cleaner than just having water sprinkle over your body like in a shower. Plus, its healthier to not shower/wash every day unless you're sweaty.

    • @chartmann43
      @chartmann43 Před 29 dny +1

      But most are not biodegradable and lands in our landfills for decades.

  • @brotherandrew3393
    @brotherandrew3393 Před 20 dny +9

    Don't forget maintainance for the van that is more than just 20 bucks and what you had to pay for it and what you have to save every month for future repairs or another van as substitution. The point is this: If your van will last 4 years you must add (13000 : 48) = about 270 Dollars per month without interests. And the same amount you must save for the next van.
    And what about earning money and paying for health insurance?

  • @Koyekh
    @Koyekh Před 3 měsíci +85

    You can get a hand pumped portable shower kit for about 30 bucks. Just fill with 1 part hot water to 2 parts cold, pump a few times, and away you go. Either shower outside, weather permitting, or open the back doors on the van and throw a tarp over them for a mobile shower cubicle.

    • @chrisniner8772
      @chrisniner8772 Před 3 měsíci +2

      How about 3 parts at the correct temperature...

    • @Avery-rb2bd
      @Avery-rb2bd Před 3 měsíci +1

      @@chrisniner8772 what temperature is that?

    • @chrisniner8772
      @chrisniner8772 Před 3 měsíci +2

      @@Avery-rb2bd a comfortable temperature I'd imagine.

    • @NancyGarcia-hi2bi
      @NancyGarcia-hi2bi Před 2 měsíci +1

      😊

    • @brianmi40
      @brianmi40 Před 2 měsíci +3

      $40 will get you a rechargeable battery powered one, drop it in a bucket with warm water and pump away.

  • @ericthat
    @ericthat Před 3 měsíci +7

    I have a 5 Gallon water bladder that I use for showering. I place it on top of the roof of my truck. Later that day it's nice and warm to shower. God Bless and be safe

  • @shaunhall6834
    @shaunhall6834 Před 3 měsíci +46

    Bob Wells would be proud of you. ❤

  • @wendellzapata6613
    @wendellzapata6613 Před 24 dny +3

    Greeting from Hormigueros Puerto Rico. I recomend you to use your van with the Windows up because driving that kind of vehicle with the Windows down is like driving with a parachute open behind you and waste a lot of money in gasoline. The air conditioning will make you save money in gasoline. 😊

  • @AlexAvilez169
    @AlexAvilez169 Před 2 měsíci +8

    Iiving the rasta way, money isn't everything. Big up yuh self youth!! Who Jah BLESS no man CURSE.

  • @brlwa6354
    @brlwa6354 Před 3 měsíci +16

    Before I retired I worked at a job that was way the heck out there!
    I have a little cabin on my own lot but commuting back and fourth to work was out of the question.
    Wound up talking the passenger seat out of a 73 Bug and laying down a piece of plywood with a small mattress and a sleeping bag.
    Took daily sponge baths and survived just fine, went home on the weekends.
    The warehouse operated 24 hours a day so I put up sunshades on all windows and slept in the parking lot.
    It was great getting off work and I was at my temporary home, waking up and I was already at work! 😁
    I was jealous of people showing up in any kind of van because I would fantasize how I would set one up.
    Retired now and I don't ever want to do that again!

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci +2

      Sounds like a great time but I can’t blame you for not wanting to do it again!

    • @CyberAndy_
      @CyberAndy_ Před 2 měsíci

      Try that TODAY you would get ARRESTED! Good luck getting a job while you're HOMELESS! Would not happen BOOMER. Let alone find a job that would let you SLEEP on their property. They would call the COPS and put you in JAIL

  • @bryantford3054
    @bryantford3054 Před 3 měsíci +8

    I lived in an old RV in the 90s for over 2 years, cooked 99% of my meals, baked my own bread and lived cheap. Don’t pay $20 for a shower! Ask around at a chain truck stop if anyone has any extra shower credits. Offer to buy them a cup of coffee. Some drivers are local & go home every day. (Most chains give you a shower credit for buying 50 gallons of diesel.)

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci

      Thanks for sharing

    • @brianmi40
      @brianmi40 Před 2 měsíci

      $40 buys a rechargeable shower head/pump. Bottles of water on the dash driving in the sun heat them up, dump in a bucket, put in pump, and shower away. lasts about 3 years, or 25 cents a shower...

  • @nancyjohnson2070
    @nancyjohnson2070 Před 3 měsíci +32

    Hey Bronson, nice breakdown on your expenses. Star link is very expensive. I'm thinking of a Garmin satalite phone. You can text even without service on your phone. Gas prices are more out West and California is ridiculous! Last week I paid $2.85/gallon. Filled my van for $40. Groceries at a convenience store is highway robbery! Wal-Mart carries pre made meals in the camping aisle. No refrigeration needed. Quick and easy to make. 😎😎

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci +8

      I’m headed to cali soon and looking at gas prices they are around $5 a gallon 😔 I think this next road trip will be a little more expensive unfortunately. A garmin satellite is a great idea 💡

    • @ITech2005
      @ITech2005 Před 3 měsíci +5

      ​@@bgrace27Look into bulk freeze dried foods. All you need to add is boiling water.

    • @rimmerableful
      @rimmerableful Před 3 měsíci

      Don't visit Canada as $40 gas will give you a quarter of a tank. And foods way more than it is in the USA.

    • @sarah_n_tank_girl
      @sarah_n_tank_girl Před 3 měsíci +4

      I have a Zoleo GPS SOS device...can send a "I'm o.k." msg to a few contacts...send a SOS when it hits the fan...and send a few texts if needed too - and it's $20 a month for peace of mind.

    • @ang9968
      @ang9968 Před 3 měsíci +2

      Those mountain house meals are 13.00 and change now. No longer worth it in my opinion.

  • @Jason-md1bw
    @Jason-md1bw Před 3 měsíci +10

    You can get a 26 quart USB Portable Refrigerator so you can store food for longer intervals, which will mean traveling less and less gas. The fridge can be powered using a solar generator/solar panels. If you switch to Google Fi cell service, you get unlimited hotspot, so you can tether your laptop.

    • @user-eo6bk9sg5y
      @user-eo6bk9sg5y Před 2 měsíci +1

      Since I have moved into my van 🚐 my petrol has now become my rent

    • @FuAzzi
      @FuAzzi Před 2 měsíci +1

      @@user-eo6bk9sg5yhow do you stay licensed and insured? I can’t figure this out.

  • @ajfeinman
    @ajfeinman Před 3 měsíci +6

    Great video. New subscriber. I have been living in my Toyota Prius for 8 years. An LA fitness membership goes a long way. For just 30 dollars a month, you get access to a swimming pool, a hot tub, a sauna, showers, and unlimited daily fresh water refilling whenever you want.

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci +2

      I think it’s time I get a PF membership

  • @cheyenneyakima8695
    @cheyenneyakima8695 Před 3 měsíci +13

    Much respect for keeping it real. I did van life back in my hippie days, when it wasn't called van life. Keep up the great work..

  • @kennethgardner3090
    @kennethgardner3090 Před 3 měsíci +34

    I started this lifestyle around nine months ago. Not in a van but in an SUV with a little popup trailer. So far it looks like you can teach me a thing or two. So yes, I will subscribe.

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci +3

      I’m glad I can help!! Welcome to the channel my friend

    • @MeJaneEntrprsz
      @MeJaneEntrprsz Před 3 měsíci +2

      Do you ever wish you had a van instead of an SUV?

    • @kennethgardner3090
      @kennethgardner3090 Před 3 měsíci +4

      @@MeJaneEntrprsz all I can say is yes. Because I'm new to this I am learning.

    • @dfaro8453
      @dfaro8453 Před 3 měsíci +2

      @@kennethgardner3090how long do you stay in a town? Sorry for asking 😅 I want to travel through the USA down to Central America but right now money is tight.

    • @QWERTYQwertz852
      @QWERTYQwertz852 Před 2 měsíci +1

      Wishing you the Best in your suvlife

  • @michaelmyers3892
    @michaelmyers3892 Před 3 měsíci +13

    A lot of things to consider when doing the van life, like the type of van you, have the engine and transmission ,how much weight you have on the inside and modifications to the suspension and outside stuff, and life can be cheap or expensive it depends on the individual but it ultimately comes down to just getting out there living life and having fun I'm going back to it full time in another month so stoked

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci +7

      EXACTLY DUDE!! It’s all about getting out there and living life to make memories. Have fun out there brother

    • @michaelmyers3892
      @michaelmyers3892 Před 3 měsíci +5

      @@bgrace27 I'm 55 and I got exposed to the van scene way back in the seventies as a kid, then I had my first van in the 1980s and it's been my addiction since then I've led the van life before it became very popular but I love it and it's so fun cuz nothing stays the same always something new down the highway or back roads

  • @markkinder6275
    @markkinder6275 Před 6 dny +1

    If you go to a truck stop, ask a trucker to get you a shower. Truckers get free showers whenever they fuel, they usually have rewards cards with unlimited showers on them, especially at Love's, Pilot, or Flying J

  • @leeketner6488
    @leeketner6488 Před 3 měsíci +7

    I had a planet fitness membership. I mostly bought canned goods for food and water and canned milk for breakfast.

    • @beachboys14-tu7hu
      @beachboys14-tu7hu Před měsícem +1

      If you don't mind the taste you can use powdered milk.

  • @MrBoxofplastic
    @MrBoxofplastic Před měsícem +3

    I grew up in Utah. I love it and I'm glad you were able to enjoy it. I used to have an Astro Van lol. My bills are way higher with health insurance, phone, gas, student loans, food, credit cards, internet, vehicle incurance ($68 like you have is great!), dog food/vet/grooming, camping occassionally, amazon prime, gym membership, random kid stuff, etc. I'm building a tiny home on wheels soon. I'm sick of wasting money on rent that is stuck in one place.

  • @AdirondackgeorgeFB
    @AdirondackgeorgeFB Před 3 měsíci +11

    Yup ,,save money ,get out and have fun. Nice one Bro !!😎

  • @willn8664
    @willn8664 Před měsícem +3

    I would also say to switch from a gas stove to a hot plate. You save a bit of money because you're not spending on propane tanks. Also, you some more space that you can use for something else. You already have the electricity from your solar panel so you're good to go.

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před měsícem +2

      I considered but since propane for a month is like $3 I don’t mind plus with an electric stove, I’d have to worry about getting ENOUGH solar charge all the time.

  • @niamarieturek9281
    @niamarieturek9281 Před 3 měsíci +4

    My husband and I travel on a motorcycle! Gas is cheap! We get into national parks for free because he is a veteran. We do cheap hotels and stay with a lot of family. Work gives us paid time off. We do cook some and go out to eat some. Not as cheap as a van but slot cheaper than a car and hotels.

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci

      For sure! That’s awesome

    • @4kasiavlogs
      @4kasiavlogs Před 3 měsíci

      Do you sleep in the parks?

    • @niamarieturek9281
      @niamarieturek9281 Před 3 měsíci

      We normally sleep just outside the parks. It can get expensive in the parks.

  • @davidohlsen1996
    @davidohlsen1996 Před 3 měsíci +13

    yes you can do thing on the cheap,you have just proved it safe travels Bro.😃

  • @tamsolo1584
    @tamsolo1584 Před měsícem +3

    I'll give you a few tips from my "hobo fabulous" days...
    I would use a water bottle or disposable cup and fill it in the bathroom sink and grab a paper towel and put whatever soap they had on it... I'd go to the toilet, do my business, and then suds up and rinse off and flush (grocery store/gas station - places like that). I refused to smell homeless... nowadays I still do that when I wanna freshen up when I'm out in the summer heat.

  • @8notoriusinquisitorius87
    @8notoriusinquisitorius87 Před 3 měsíci +5

    If you didn't drive so much you could drive the (gas) costs down further. I feel like $149 for groceries for a month was excellent, but if you could plan a couple meals and not visit the grocery daily that could save on gas costs. I saw someone said a gym for showers, but a joolca (or something similar) is a great alternative if your close to a water source (pay once - hot shower on demand anytime there is a water source). Dispersed camping on BLM lands can save on park costs, I think Quartzite Arizona you can pay $180 to stay for 6-7 months (there probably are some in Utah too). I've been studying van-lifers for a while, my husband and me want to van(bus)-life in retirement. I value honesty and integrity, thank you, glad you came up in my suggested videos, subbed!

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci +1

      Yes gas was a pain to spend on. I certainly will be more cautious and meticulous this next travel season.
      Luckily in Utah I found TONS of free camping everywhere I went. Not once I paid for camping or a spot to sleep but that also meant a lack of amenities
      Also, welcome to the channel!!

  • @anarchomoto1152
    @anarchomoto1152 Před 3 měsíci +4

    You can do it way cheaper than that even. I've been doing the van life thing for about 7 years now. I'm working full time and putting back money for a new van. I'm saving everything I can, and I can get by on about $400 a month. And that includes paying for a storage unit for all my other stuff, vehicle insurance, gas, phone, food etc. Currently I have a van that gets good gas mileage, which will change once I get the new van. The new van will get about half what this one does.
    I will say that at $400 I'm not driving all over the place. I typically park about 6 miles from work, but I go camping nearly every weekend.
    It most certainly CAN be cheaper than renting!

    • @FuAzzi
      @FuAzzi Před 2 měsíci

      I would love to know how to do this. Getting a new engine for my van next week, so I have reliability.
      My question is, how do I have a valid drivers license and insurance without a home address?

  • @TheINFP_Diary
    @TheINFP_Diary Před 3 měsíci +12

    so happy i found your channel! by the end of february 2024 i'll be living in my small car, several times I kept getting bummed because i've seen so many car camping youtubers have these awesome hatchback cars, but my car is a sedan, so the trunk areas is separate.
    So far i've removed the backs of my rear seats, I've placed some wool blankets and sleeping bags on one side in the rear, then pulled all the layers through the hole I created from taking the seats out.
    Ive been sleeping by in my car the past 3 nights now just to improve little stuff every day.
    I can't believe how much time DOWNSIZING my things is taking.
    I'm a 22 yr old female so I can't imagine how much harder this would've been if I decided to do this lifestyle decades later.

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci +3

      Ahhhh hatchbacks are awesome and all but you’re going to be the baddest traveler out there! I mean seriously, I rarely see anybody doing this travel thing in cars much less sedans…
      That means you’ve got some guts, it’s awesome 👏
      Have a great time traveling! It’s coming soon

  • @paulmcgovern3228
    @paulmcgovern3228 Před měsícem +2

    Truck stops are usually around $10 unless you have a loves card. You can get a free shower by fueling with the points system.

  • @amylee6038
    @amylee6038 Před 3 měsíci +17

    Our family of 7 lived on $6/day total for years. In a bamboo Nipa hut with grass roof and dirt floor. No electricity, no plumbing, no furniture, just enough space for us to lie down at night. It was a war zone with atrocities my family and I lived through. Americans cosplay at this, so I was glad you did the "startup cost" portion at the end because it is quite deceptive not to.
    I married a wealthy Americano, we have a homestead in remote rural Alaska. We could easily go six months to a year without spending any money at all. We could say how cheap it is to live like this. All you need is start up money for boats, an airplane, ATV's, Snowmobiles, bulldozer and other heavy equipment, logging equipment, a log home with outbuildings and a fully equipped 50x24 shop, a thousand gallons of fuel on hand and 1.5 tons of stored food. Lots to do with a hockey rink, billiards room, music recording studio and band room, MMA fighting cage, etc.

    • @DreadCthulhuu
      @DreadCthulhuu Před 2 měsíci

      dude what are you braying on about you donkey? boats, ATVs, 1000 gallons of fuel?? lol shut your mouth. nobody needs all that you silly little mail- order- wife.
      this guy did it in a van, no land.
      Americans COSPLAY LMAO? sorry not everybody grows up in garbage, trash countries.
      it's not cosplay sweetie, some of us are minimalists and we don't need to pretend to come from garbage cultures to justify our lifestyle.
      you married a "Wealthy Americano"? good thing you did, or you would still be sleeping on the dirt floor. show some respect to the nation that literally saved you from wriggling around in the dirt like a worm. give that man a top tier BJ tonight to show your gratitude for your nice, western lifestyle.

  • @templar1694
    @templar1694 Před 3 měsíci +4

    The struggles of vanlife will be a place to park, source of clean water, restroom and where to dumb the waste and a place to take a bath. But modern life have many solutions for this problems.

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci

      That’s for reals tho. IOverlander was a lifesaver

    • @brianmi40
      @brianmi40 Před 2 měsíci

      I've stealth vanned for a total of about a year altogether over the last 4 years in 2 van conversions. One way streets with little used parking spaces or neighborhoods without driveways are easy pickins, even in places like Miami. Look for a street on the side of homes with a fence, back up to the car behind you to conceal out of state plates to casual drive bys. Buy 3 gallon water jug, fill at any Walmart if you can't find free water in city parks, restrooms with a 1g jug, etc. Orange Home Depot or similar bucket and a toilet seat they sell for mounting on top, and a bag and you've got #2 covered. for couples, easy DIY on composting toilets which when properly used and vented offer NO smell. As a guy, I picked up an airtight plastic box, roll up the bags and put inside for no smell until you can make a dump of them. $40 rechargeable battery powered shower head/pumps on amazon get you free showers. Put bottles of water on the dash while parked or driving for the sun to warm them, dump in a bucket or pail, put in the pump, and shower away. I've even rigged a hanging shower curtain that sets up from a roof rack in 20 seconds, or you can often just shower in shorts as a guy. There's also pop up shower / changing enclosures you can buy.
      there's solutions to every need out there, just need to look.

  • @hawkeyejo9609
    @hawkeyejo9609 Před 2 měsíci +4

    Bro's got crank windows. Wish I'd found a van to convert with manual windows. I'm about 90% of the way through my own conversion of a 1995 GMC Rally Wagon. So wee bit bigger than the astro, but i'm makin sure to have space inside for my bike. I'm lookin forward to this more than I ever thought. Never been an outdoors person. But somethings gotta change. And I hate the midwest.

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 2 měsíci +1

      Crank windows and no cruise control 🤙
      Heck yeah bro, the Rally Wagon would be awesome! The outdoors and nature is a whole new world. One day you’ll find yourself on top of a mountain at Sunset and you’ll never go back, promise 🤝

  • @HighDollarHobo
    @HighDollarHobo Před 3 měsíci +10

    Good thing i make about $800 a month right guy hahaha I subbed man.. Im one of the original van life youtubers b4 it was cool.. Im about to move into my van all over again 7 years later..

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci +2

      That’s badass man, you’ve got it worked out 💪 have fun getting back on the road

  • @billevansimagineer6339
    @billevansimagineer6339 Před 3 měsíci +3

    GREAT job Brett! I'm 74 and travel in a EuroVan and I love the life but I want to tell you that your video is Head and shoulders above most of those I see. So much better than seeing an old unattractive person sitting behind the wheel of their vehicle rambling on about very little. It's nice to have you around and I'll look forward to seeing more videos.

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci

      I love the Eurovans 🤤 thanks and welcome to the channel

  • @EmpowerWave-ol2ol
    @EmpowerWave-ol2ol Před 2 měsíci +4

    This will help a lot of punters who are sick of rent and utilities.

  • @FlavioBos
    @FlavioBos Před měsícem +2

    Big Up, thanks for sharing. Well done video. Greetings from Switzerland…

  • @calvinc5961
    @calvinc5961 Před 3 měsíci +8

    Yes, you have a lot of potential with your skills and knowledge in building and customizing vans along with your travel adventures. Plus being able to get discounts on products from sponsors and manufacturers. You're great and awesome at cooking meals on the road and should have a recipe for all of the meals you cook. I really enjoy your channel and I still can't get over what an awesome van you have. I am thinking about traveling more but I don't have a van - just a Raptor a Bronco and a Tent lol. Or stay in a motel but that gets expensive.

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci +2

      Mmmm I should put the recipe in the description….

    • @4kasiavlogs
      @4kasiavlogs Před 3 měsíci +1

      $28 a day in El Paso for the monthly rate.

  • @user-hw6hb4rk9t
    @user-hw6hb4rk9t Před 3 měsíci +6

    With a gallon of fairly hot water, and a washcloth, one can get remarkably clean.

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci

      A gallon of hot water is just as hard to come by 😂😔

    • @user-hw6hb4rk9t
      @user-hw6hb4rk9t Před 3 měsíci +1

      I forgot to mention@@bgrace27
      Car campers need to have some kind of stove with them. I'm a backpacker with over 1/2 dozen stoves. What I recommend for car campers is the Coleman funnel shaped stove which screws directly onto the (typically) green, 1 lb propane cannisters at walmart.
      Coleman calls this the "Bottle Top Propane Stove". Nice, because it is affordable, burns clean (very low CO production), and the fuel is available all over the place, and lasts forever.
      White gas stoves are not ideal (flare ups and CO), 230 gram isobutane backpacking stoves are as good as the Coleman, just expensive fuel. Alcohol stoves I really didn't like, running in an enclosed tent.
      In a pinch, in a sunny climate, any 2L plastic bottle can be spraypainted flat black and left in the sun. The water will be pretty hot in a few hours.

  • @BillySBC
    @BillySBC Před 3 měsíci +4

    Should work out a "micro-shower" for inside your van, have seen people do it before and it works well and very simple setup. Also, I think maybe get yourself a little scooter to put on the back of your van, like a Zuma 125 or something or a Honda Ruckus maybe, so you can park your van and go explore with your little scooter, also if you break down you are never actually stranded. Great video.

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci +1

      I’ve got an outdoor shower, it was so hard to use it for that road trip but on my current one, it’ll be a bit warmer thank godness

  • @debraduncan1279
    @debraduncan1279 Před 3 měsíci +2

    I really like what you did with your strolly, really Sharp! Happy trails......

  • @gailjohnson6670
    @gailjohnson6670 Před 3 měsíci +2

    Thank you for the video. Blessings to you.

  • @jazziered142
    @jazziered142 Před 3 měsíci +4

    You don't have to pay that much to take showers, I'm going to get me a brand new weed sprayer, twist off the end off so its short. I am going to spray me down. They make 2 gallon ones, they are relatively small.

  • @ShaneosaurusGaming
    @ShaneosaurusGaming Před měsícem +2

    When you're in a apartment you're usually working if you're travelling constantly you're not usually working so yeah it might be cheaper but you're resources are finite

  • @Missfortune70
    @Missfortune70 Před 3 měsíci +4

    There are cheaper ways to do the start up costs. You really decked out Fred, which is really beautiful, but you could do a no build van with thrifted items. You could technically live without solar if you needed to and just stick with basics like a cooler, water jugs, and a cooking source and some reflectix window coverings. Use what you have until you can afford something better.

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci +1

      Yes for sure, you could go for SO cheap

    • @brianmi40
      @brianmi40 Před 2 měsíci +1

      I have more in my van than he has (full size RAM ProMaster 2500 with sink/shower/microwave etc. and have less than $5K total, all DIY.
      12v fridge is the first thing to get, since it means keeping condiments cold, and buying things to eat that last over several days, instead of meal by meal at greater expense and having things like milk or cold drinks/water. I've converted 2 vans, but if I was near destitute starting out in one as an empty shell, I'd sleep on an air mattress and use the first saved $$$ for a solar panel on the roof, LifePo4 battery and cheap charge controller to run a small 12v fridge. Under $300 total. Any full time job at even minimum wage could after a week's wages or so pay your food that week and buy such a setup if living in the van and doing it DIY from any of dozens of YT videos.
      Now you have power for LED lights at night, power to charge a phone, power to cook a meal in a HotLogic Mini ($40) for FREE. Put in some 12v LED lighting and a USB charge port ($6). Depending on time of year / climate where you are, a powered roof vent ($150) might be next.
      Less than $1K you can have everything in a van to store and preserve food and drinks cold and cheaply, cook, bathe ($40 rechargeable shower head pump, bottles of water on the dash in the sun to warm, dump in bucket, put in pump, shower away), and sleep comfortably (2" nylon strapping stapled or screwed down, wrapped a time or two around 2 2x4s spread apart by 1 cut in half to make a 4' wide bed and fastened to the walls make a sling bed for sleeping comfort with any foam padding and a sleeping bag or in summer just a sheet.

  • @user-ej7zv5ff4r
    @user-ej7zv5ff4r Před 18 dny +2

    I really enjoyed your video~ Thanks so much for going to the point!

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 18 dny +1

      You’re welcome, thanks for watching

  • @karccrn
    @karccrn Před 3 měsíci +1

    Great parking job! lol! The inside of your van is so cozy! I love it!

  • @dumpstermaster104
    @dumpstermaster104 Před 8 dny +1

    With inflation the way it is, this guy hit the nail on the head

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 8 dny

      For real bro, thank you. Certainly a better way to live a fulfilling life while also saving money

    • @dumpstermaster104
      @dumpstermaster104 Před 8 dny

      @@bgrace27 Damn right

  • @MsAce0424
    @MsAce0424 Před 3 měsíci +3

    I smashed the like button once i heard the van's name is fred. Love it.

  • @CaptainKush420
    @CaptainKush420 Před 3 měsíci +2

    Getting frozen fruits and veggies from Walmart is a really good way to eat on the cheap. They stay fresher longer that way

  • @bigrobsvan
    @bigrobsvan Před 3 měsíci +6

    You did it! Thanks for taking us along for the past month. Next time spend an extra $5 on bug spray if you go back to Spider Mountain! Blech!

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci +4

      I think that would be wise 😂 I think I’ll spend more and get a flamethrower!

  • @user-nb8de3ce3d
    @user-nb8de3ce3d Před 6 dny +1

    i get a chance to stay on the property at work and they allow me to use their showers there... huge help.. seeing as i work in the public... and my other job is also flexible as i work nights there and they allow me to charge my battery while i'm parked there working.
    i love that i can just buy when and what i want, but also keeping it limited... I also am paying off the work done to my van... which is a lot given a new floor and frame was needed to make it road safe.
    safe travels little one!!! 🖖🧡🐾🚙

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 5 dny +1

      That’s an awesome deal, you’ve seriously got it setup for living cheap, way to go

  • @brianmi40
    @brianmi40 Před 2 měsíci +2

    THIS IS THE FUTURE with home and rent prices where they ARE and where they're HEADED.
    People suffering from CRAZY RENT PRICES and "never getting ahead" should live IN A VAN (or large car if necessary), save for a down payment, THEN buy a cheap place, fix it up quickly and RENT IT OUT and still LIVE IN THE VAN. Then after a couple years of renting, you can refinance it and LIVE THERE at an affordable mortgage payment.

  • @lisetteboucherfortin4775
    @lisetteboucherfortin4775 Před 3 měsíci +3

    Hi I just saw your vlog ,interresting ,I am old enough to be your Grandma..don't be too cheap on yourself life is too short

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci

      I’ll keep it in mind 😊

  • @explorer8125
    @explorer8125 Před 3 měsíci +2

    I guess I got lucky cause I found a 1991 ford econoline high top with 50,000 miles on it. For 3,500. It runs great even after the cold it hasn’t killed the battery yet. I have gotten wheel bearing fixed and windshield wipers. And I need to get a new door seal but it’s still great. The woman before me had already put floors in and a wooden box you could put a mattress on and has inverter and battery in it with shore power hook up

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci +1

      That’s a great deal man, way to go!

  • @eggzfrags
    @eggzfrags Před 3 měsíci +2

    Great video! First van life video I’ve seen break down travel expenses to the exact dollar. Makes me more confident to book a car camping trip next month

  • @jacquelinecellian8939
    @jacquelinecellian8939 Před 3 měsíci +2

    Dollar Tree has packets of tuna with different flavorings or spices added and with a fold up plastic spoon in the packet. They are also flat so they store well and easy to open. Just an idea.

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci

      I’ve seen them at Walmart for around $3-$4 so I’d definitely pick some up at the dollar store for cheaper! Thank you

  • @pmclellan123
    @pmclellan123 Před 3 měsíci +2

    Great video. Love the van. Keep posting!

  • @strykerhalo
    @strykerhalo Před měsícem +6

    If you stayed all 14-16 days in dispersed camping sites, and found them no more than 30-50 miles apart you could easily save gas. $200 savings. Then just get EBT if you qualify you’ll get $291 a month. There’s food savings. You could probably get it down to $500 a month. Just have to make sure you’re meticulous and stay all 14-16 days at dispersed sites.

  • @BritishRail60062
    @BritishRail60062 Před 20 dny +1

    Thanks for this honest and truthful, but very helpful video. I for one am considering the van life as I am fed up the default of my life and I want to try a new adventure.

  • @animespirits
    @animespirits Před 2 měsíci +2

    If money is a concern and you want to save on traveling, look up remote wilderness campsites. Up in Washington we have a good amount of those, and your allowed to stay up to 2 weeks at a time for free. So if Utah has something similar, you could always just move to a different one every 2 weeks.
    You'll be in the same place for a while, but you would save a lot on gas doing so.

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 2 měsíci +1

      Thanks for the tips! If I ever don’t want to travel around as much you betcha that’s what I’ll do!!!

  • @williambanks9292
    @williambanks9292 Před 3 měsíci +3

    Greatly appreciate your cost breakdown, I’ve been working on my own van and it’s nice to see what angles I can avoid spending unnecessarily

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci +1

      I’m glad you enjoyed, thanks for watching!

  • @analea7717
    @analea7717 Před 3 měsíci +2

    Thank you for the money talk!❤

  • @freddymorando5113
    @freddymorando5113 Před 2 měsíci +1

    It's important to note that this completely depends how you do it (planning wise) and where your starting destination is compared to where you actually want to be. I live in FL so just getting out west (where I wanted to be) was $600 alone. I also had to the ride home eventually so that's another $600 on fuel. I did not plan my trip I just kinda went with the flow so I backtracked a lot, crossing the New Mexico/Colorado state line at least 4 times. This was due to poor planning not knowing exactly where I was going and adjusting to the poor weather in CO at the time. Eventually I decided to check out Arizona as well, while I was in New Mexico. By the end of my month long trip I was up to $3400 in expenses. Don't be like me folks, do your homework plan the route wisely.

  • @TweetWithTheTeaTv
    @TweetWithTheTeaTv Před 3 měsíci +2

    Amazing video

  • @rob9368
    @rob9368 Před 2 měsíci +5

    Studio apartment is cheaper than a van and better lifestyle. You get bathroom and shower and don’t risk losing your home plus is a few hundred bucks cheaper than living in the van.

    • @joshuasons2300
      @joshuasons2300 Před měsícem +1

      Lol you must be joking😂 It all depends on the location. I'm in Florida $1,000 and more per month studio or not.

    • @joshuasons2300
      @joshuasons2300 Před měsícem

      Oh and the landlord can kick you out at will from your studio 7-30 days depending on again location. 😂 Also don't have a felony or pets way worse 😅😂

  • @mielesutter4159
    @mielesutter4159 Před 3 měsíci +2

    I only eat one meal a day. Breakfast is usually a handful of vanilla wafers and drink one cup of coffee.

  • @rickcooper156
    @rickcooper156 Před 3 měsíci +4

    I'm really enjoying your videos!
    I Live full time Luxuriously in my SUV and it still costs me much less than living in a Bricks and Sticks! My Montra is "High Quality but Low Quantity". I don't own much but the few things I do have are DeLuxe and bring me much Joy and Happiness. With the money I save, I travel and enjoy more time with Family and Friends. I Love my SUV Life!
    On a side note, be careful with the amount of fish you eat. Mercury poisoning is no joke.
    Be safe out there and have Fun!

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci +1

      I’m glad you’re enjoying! What kind of SUV are you traveling in?? I’d love to know!
      I just looked into tuna and mercury poisoning 😵‍💫😵‍💫

    • @rickcooper156
      @rickcooper156 Před 3 měsíci +1

      @@bgrace27 I've been living full time in my 2004 Toyota Highlander for almost 4 years and it's the best thing I've ever done. It's more than enough room for me to live in and I can park her anywhere without being noticed. The savings on gas is also a huge plus and there are few roads that I can't venture down.
      I'm currently building out a 1994 Chevy G20 Gladiator van conversion so my girlfriend can join me on some of my travels here in SoCal. I'll keep living in the Highlander for the economy and use the van when my girl wants to go"Glamping" LOL. And who knows, she might come to love this Lifestyle as much as me and join me full time but only if we live in the van. Lol
      I hope you make some time, in your traveling schedule, to come visit the mountain and coastal communities of Southern California. We're one of the few places where you can go surfing in the morning and snow skiing in the afternoon! Not to mention all the crazy stuff to do in between! I just Love it here and I think you will too.

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci +1

      @@rickcooper156 a Toyota Highlander would be a pretty good rig to get into, I think it’s awesome 👏
      I personally thought about building out a G20 as well so you’ve got me jealous!

      I’ve got big plans for SoCal….some day

  • @Loulou-nj7ji
    @Loulou-nj7ji Před 3 měsíci +6

    You absolutely right. I am one who also keeps track of my expenses and that’s the way to do it!!! And you’ll probably have a nice bank account! You are so smart ❤looking forward to your next adventure my friend until then stay safe stay strong and God bless 🙏❤️✌🏼

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci +1

      Thank you!!!

    • @youdontwanttoknow5203
      @youdontwanttoknow5203 Před 3 měsíci

      Depends on what your income is. If you're on SS, you won't have enough left over to save.

    • @genespell4340
      @genespell4340 Před 2 měsíci

      ​@@youdontwanttoknow5203 it's according to how long you worked and how much you made per hour. A lot of people get more than 2,000.00 a month.

  • @danhastings8111
    @danhastings8111 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Awesome build and video! Nice work!

  • @cnc75adventures49
    @cnc75adventures49 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Good job man it’s cool to see you getting some real adventure and I think your also probably learning some real great life lessons 👍👍

  • @summerlaverdure
    @summerlaverdure Před měsícem +1

    great video! vanlife is something that's not realistic for me to do but it's cool to see other people doing it!

  • @Natashas-life
    @Natashas-life Před 3 měsíci +2

    Wow 😮 that's an amazing rebuild ❤

  • @garybregel4259
    @garybregel4259 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Great video and good info.

  • @Breeder333
    @Breeder333 Před 3 měsíci +1

    I like the bedliner painted yellow. Makes the stro’ look ready for whatever

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci

      That’s cause it is 😏 😁

  • @CrazyCranker
    @CrazyCranker Před 2 měsíci +2

    Wow! nice job on the van! I really like the interior design! The one thing to consider is, all that wood adds a lot of weight which adds to your fuel cost. The more weight, the more fuel. Looks like you have a plan for next months food cost. Your doing great! Good luck in your travels! :)

    • @brianmi40
      @brianmi40 Před 2 měsíci

      The wood covers insulation in the walls which lets you stay cooler in the sun, or warmer at night, depending on your travels. I "tented" up with a blanket "fort" overhead (like when you were a kid) and slept in 38 degrees near Yellowstone 4 years ago in my van. My thermometer middle of the night showed 63 degrees under the blanket fort due to my body heat getting out of the summer weight sleeping bag. $20 fuzzy blanket from Walmart. Slept like a baby. You use light weight cheap woods and it's not a problem. Vans have quite a load capacity also. Fully kitted out with 600 watts solar, sink, shower, microwave, etc., my RAM ProMaster 2500 weighs less than a Amazon van pulling out for a day's worth of deliveries.

  • @gsprings43
    @gsprings43 Před 3 měsíci +5

    just goes to show,,,,rent is out of hand

  • @edithgomez8092
    @edithgomez8092 Před 3 měsíci +3

    WOW! Nice build . Home Sweet Home.

  • @timothykelley4514
    @timothykelley4514 Před 2 měsíci +2

    Great job

  • @jekatero
    @jekatero Před 3 měsíci +1

    The roll down window 🤗🤗🤗

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci

      I’ve got those fancy upgrades

  • @kaymerritt3694
    @kaymerritt3694 Před 2 měsíci +1

    Great video!

  • @jumbledfox2098
    @jumbledfox2098 Před 21 dnem +1

    god this is so cool!! i'd love to do this after university or something, i just don't want to wait too long and be too old

  • @abelrivera4375
    @abelrivera4375 Před 3 měsíci +3

    I'm currently crossing true a hard time and unemployed, I have a 2010 Ford Escape and I'm really debating in trading it for a van or just accomadate it for living. Definitly an inspiration man. Got you a new sub, and loved your van!

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci

      I’m glad I could help bro 🤙
      Welcome to the channel, let me know if ya need anything

    • @brianmi40
      @brianmi40 Před 2 měsíci

      Kia Sedona are legendary for lots of length for sleeping if you can't swing a van. czcams.com/video/H3SNwpzPQI0/video.html
      People have even rigged a way to shower in the recessed floor!

  • @skyler_boyette
    @skyler_boyette Před 3 měsíci +2

    Utah CZcamsr here! Inspiring brother, great vid. I hope to get in a van someday. Love your rig.

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci

      Thanks man, I appreciate it!

  • @secretamericayoutubechanne2961

    The biggest expense in Van Life is gas, unless you stay put in one city for months.

  • @coryplace6965
    @coryplace6965 Před 3 měsíci +2

    Love the channel bro .i like your set up im thinking of doing van life here soon myself .be safe man .keep making cool videos .!!

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci

      It’s worth it! Thanks for the support

  • @annamcuthbert3993
    @annamcuthbert3993 Před 3 měsíci +2

    Good on you xx😊

  • @shawnmh91
    @shawnmh91 Před měsícem +1

    Love this. ❤

  • @steveallman7581
    @steveallman7581 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Great vid!

  • @katrinhalookca
    @katrinhalookca Před 3 měsíci +5

    Bronson, 10,000 views!! I just knew you'd start blowing up! 🥹

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci +3

      Feeling good 😌
      Thank you for sticking around for the ride cause it’s only just began!!!

    • @AdirondackgeorgeFB
      @AdirondackgeorgeFB Před 3 měsíci +3

      20.000 and climbing yeah!!!

  • @AdirondackgeorgeFB
    @AdirondackgeorgeFB Před 3 měsíci +2

    All boils down to one thing, the man is a genius!! ☝️

  • @Darthdutie
    @Darthdutie Před 18 dny +1

    Our vans are identical!! Mines a blue 04’ awd ladder water tank roof rack they are so similar I love it

    • @Darthdutie
      @Darthdutie Před 18 dny

      Well the inside is way better than mine 😂

  • @jaredgamble3250
    @jaredgamble3250 Před 3 měsíci +1

    You're cool bro, thanks for the example!

  • @user-lt4tx6mi6c
    @user-lt4tx6mi6c Před 3 měsíci +2

    Yeah that's good you can start off with a small van and work your way up to a bigger van

  • @ThingsWithAli
    @ThingsWithAli Před měsícem +4

    bro is in breaking bad parking lot

  • @BudgetingMarine
    @BudgetingMarine Před 3 měsíci +2

    Good stuff bro Im currently in the military teaching people how to save money with Cash stuffings but I actually planned on doing this things shifted a bit but I still want to buy a van to travel here and there

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci +1

      That’s awesome, people have a hard time managing money all together it’s wild.
      This is your sign to buy a van 🚐

    • @BudgetingMarine
      @BudgetingMarine Před 3 měsíci +1

      @@bgrace27 definitely thankfully I grew up poor and being in the military u learn to live with a lot less haha

  • @LeneMulan-jt2dc
    @LeneMulan-jt2dc Před 3 měsíci +2

    Grate video very inspiring i am doing vanlife staring next week

  • @edwardmacnab354
    @edwardmacnab354 Před měsícem +1

    upkeep on a vehicle is the most expensive part. In some places like Ontario Canada , insurance comes next . Gas is last . everything else is not related to vanlife

  • @johnsteamsyt
    @johnsteamsyt Před 3 měsíci +2

    Yo B Grace, my name is Bronson too. I'm out of the St. George area here in Utah. I like doing similar stuff too except I converted my truck bed rather than a van conversion. I'd love to do a van someday though. I'm gonna scroll thru some of your vids this is a dope van.

    • @bgrace27
      @bgrace27  Před 3 měsíci

      Yoooooo what’s up man! I was just in St. George like 3 days ago.
      Before the van I actually had a Chevy s-10 that I built the back into a truck bed camper, it was legit.
      Thanks for watching 🤙🤙🤙