Mr. Static, a few points of order: 1 ) At least you have hair, darn it!, 2) By inference from a prior comment, am I to assume that you are not currently employed as a beach model?, 3) Years after college, I remember running into a woman I knew back as a student. And I asked her, "Aren't choLula?" And she responded, "I cho am." (By the way, do you think that it is easy to work this hard just to get a potentially meager laugh?), 4) You at least could have shown us your new pocket knife. Well, I guess that covers it, if I think of anything else, I'll be sure to let you know.
I've carried a knife since I was 6. My current one is made by CutCo. and I have nothing bad to say about it but your needs may be different than mine. Look them up.
Your life in a van is very much like mine. But thin I'm 73, so I'm slowing down some so its okay with me. I live the van life and the freedom it give me. I don't want to sit in a apartment the rest of my life. Happy trials my friend.
I don't think your day was boring. It's kind of calming to watch you just do ordinary things. It's a peaceful life. You've got a new subscribe from me!
I like this video - mundane or not, it gives a nice look at what it's like living and cooking in your van. You were a good guy for helping that woman out.
Day in the life videos are the best for people viewing your type channel. It’s the lifestyle itself that is the draw because it is so different. No need for the apologetic tone. I used to watch Chad from living the van life. I loved those raw videos. He was in the Seattle area as well.
Life is good... at least the money that your spending goes into something that's yours.... you own your own home, you travel whenever the mood hits you, just continue to do your videos...there is always someone that's watching that appreciates it.....
Like others do, I look to you for an honest, balanced view of van life without all the hype. Much rather see a chance connection with a stranger made through empathy and kindness than people suntanning themselves on the beaches or showing off the toys they don't have to pay for. As for your cooking, I always mange to find a great idea that is time saving at the same time it is nutritious and economical. Also, recently I'd been craving ice cream but it's been too cold to eat it, so your dessert had me wondering why I hadn't thought of that.
Enjoyed your video..... it warmed my heart! What you felt was just a simple act of kindness in an “ordinary mundane day” .... could have changed the trajectory of someone else’s day/life ..... and renewed their faith in mankind in a society that is often overshadowed with hate, judgement, sadness and fear. I hope everyone that watches your video will be inspired to do something nice for someone today!
.......yeah, i carry a pair of jumps just to help others.........if the case looks like a person whose been struggling with 'a life gone wrong'......i give the cables to them, to save them that one hassle in the future........notta a 'wonderful' person.........just found stuff like that improves the quality of my life and the ones i help.......✝
Great sleeping bag repurposing idea. You might have just solved a cold weather problem I have in my sprinter. Thanks for the vlog format. Personally, I find magic in the mundane.
I used to store my sleeping bag in the same way during the summer time. But it was annoying because I had the bag blocking the cab off. It just occurred to me yesterday that I could just cut it and place the zipper in the center. One Awesome Inch had a similar setup. He bought a bag at a Thrift Store.
That was so nice of you to stop and help the lady with her car. Great video. Like you said, van life isn't all good or bad. I just like that you share every aspect of the lifestyle. It helps others who are thinking about doing it to have a more realistic view of what they would encounter from day to day. Thanks again for sharing your experience.
Hey great video! People like to see normal everyday stuff about their favorite TH-camrs. It's kinda fun to see how other people live and how much we are all alike or different. And good job reusing your sleeping bag! That's an awesome warm curtain you have now! I've done something similar with old blankets on windows and my pass through from my cab as well.(in my old RV) It works great. But you have the cool high tech zipper door! Maybe I'll have to use that on my next rig. Thank you for sharing! :-)
Living in a van, with a job, eating Ramen noodles. YOU GOT SERIOUS MONEY in yer pocket but nice play to say otherwise so the ladies don't try to spend your cash! Excellent strategy my friend!
This time of year it's nice to visit a plant nursery. They're warm and cozy inside, have lots to look at, often have Koi ponds (Swanson Nursery in Ballard has reindeer!) and some have a little cafe. They're all decorated for Christmas and sell Christmas paraphernalia to make ends meet in the winter.
I enjoyed your video.... Your hair looks good... I totally agree I have curly hair and damp weather is never kind to it...Thanks for sharing... Take care x
All the little mundane things are film worthy. Thanks for putting it out there. I retire shortly and I’m considering hitting the road in a van. I need and want your perspective.
Awwww......Your kindness reflects in the way you talk and live your life. I was once in the same situation as that lady, my car battery went down in a massive shopping centre North London in winter with 2 small children with me, and no one will stop or help even when I asked for what seems to be a long time. It made me so very sad 😔😔I am glad you stopped to help a stranger. Thank you 🙂🙂
Sometimes humanity is disappointing. We’ve all been in the same situation. Everyone is in such a rush, I think it affects their common decency at times. Thanks for your comments!
I've given many a stranded driver a jump. My way of paying it forward. Never know when I may be the one needing a jump. Since you're in the Tacoma area take time to go to the Glass Museum. Wonderful place. I know what you mean about "mundane life". I lived aboard my sailboat for ten years. Life was pretty normal and mundane. Go to work, cook food, clean the boat. Do laundry. Etc. Some great sailing too.
I think the same thing about me needing a hand sometime. I drove right past the glass museum, maybe I will stop in next time I’m down there getting a haircut. Sailboats! That sounds great.
I bought one of those stoves on Amazon. Several of the reviews mentioned a problem with the valve. That's didn't thrill me, but the design seems less prone to rattling than a lot of the stoves. I would get in touch with Coleman, in your situation. It's not just an isolated thing, apparently. It's an interesting question whether there is really much 'adventure' out there. There are a lot of things that active people can do, but there are other ways to get exercise. They made a movie about a man who thought there were great adventures out there in an RV, Lost in America. You seem like you have a real humanist sort of point of view. I don't know if there are real communities in the van world. I don't know if the electronic communities help or hurt. Eventually it may balance out. If people want to live simple lives, I'm not sure what the best way to build those structures is. I left a situation where you were supposed to be married, pushing the career, pushing the kids, never thinking, never really evaluating. I once asked a woman who wanted to marry me whether her life and world wasn't just an empty competition. Competition for the sake of competition. Well, obviously, that didn't work out. That was just one view of 'success' or a satisfying life. People should be able to have a simple job, build some sort of life around that. This kind of video seems promising, but be willing to think about what you really want.
What interesting, thought provoking comments. After a year and a half of vanlife, my biggest concern is being able to hold onto this lifestyle. It suits me. I will undoubtedly come back and reread your message after I have had a chance to let your thoughts sink in. Thanks.
I agree Mr Sears has a number of really good points. Sustainability? I wish I was back on the boat but you still had rent (slip), Insurance, Personal Property taxes, holding tank issues, etc. Van living seems to have more cost saving aspects but you can count on issue arising around that in the future. (not going there). The social aspect stems around having a center to connect to to build a few relationships. For friendship or possibly romantic. The level one needs to work that out for themselves.
I don't know what the technology will open up. The Pro Master City is small enough to be a good electric vehicle. If you had a Bolt sized battery and did good insulation at the factory, you could heat and cool it off the battery for several days, maybe weeks. Cities are being pushed to look at alternatives, from tiny houses to vans on the street or other designated spots.
Great video.....12 volt crockpot makes awesome meals cook while you drive. Pilot j sell them or truck stops.... Good idea old sleeping bag for insulation, plus privacy for light
Hello. That was so sweet of you to help that woman out. So many people don't care about others. Thank you. The haircut looks good. Be safe and rest well tonight.😴
That was a really good gesture man, helpign someone in need. I was thinking, would be great to team up with a few other of you van dwellers and pool our resources together to help someone in need. Would be a great way to organize and do something great for the world. just a thought, keep it in mind buddy! btw, awesome fresh content!
9:35 I so really need to work on cooking more in my van, I shop for quick easy stuff but not so much stuff I have to cook. Great vid. man, thx for the insight and realization that is the #vanlife
YES!! More videos like this please. Cool Jacket. Great haircut. You're looking good.I don't think your days are boring at all. I do basically the same things you do. by the way, I like that place you sat for chocolate cake. It looks like a pretty nice store. That stove of yours is crazy. I'd get a new one too. Just in case you deep fry your ceiling. You know it's funny about Brian liking Cholula. I like Brian but not that sauce. I had to run out and get some after seeing him with it so often. What about Sriracha sauce. That stuff is good. It's good to see you eat healthy when you can but man that junk food sometimes is just what a person needs.
Thanks for the kind words. I’ll interview Brian about his obsession for Cholula next time I see him! I’m not a fan of sugary hot sauce either. I like the $2 hot sauce Whole Foods sells but I haven’t been shopping there recently. I’ll start shopping for a new stove, you make a good point about it melting my van down!
I found that the Coleman Powerpack is infinitely adjustable. The only thing I don't like is that my tiny, one-egg pan sits a bit too low on it. I am going to jury-rig something to hold the pan up a bit higher, or buy a flame-tamer. I got rid of my two-burner, because the Powerpack is so much better. If you are having trouble with it, notify Coleman. They are good about honoring warranties.
Thank for putting out videp, it is video worthy watching a Nomad experience and only a natural Nomad heart can understand why I watch a real Nomad's video... be blessed, be safe..
If you like your stove, you might consider taking the gas valve apart and putting in a new O-ring/cleaning. Perhaps it's not user servicable. Spork sighting!! 😉
Honestly, getting one with a built in piezo igniter would be worth the cost. I’ve bought about a dozen stick lighters since they seem to be unreliable as well.
I'm a new subscriber and have been checking out a few of your older videos. I just wanted to say that your videos are a lot more interesting than a lot of the van life people/videos I have viewed. Many are churning out pretty much the same video each time, even though they may be visiting a new city or area of the country. Thanks for keeping it interesting, and educating me at the same time!
Wait a minute. I see all these channels with hot models on the beach, surfing, living with their four dogs, building complex sleep systems on the fly, Yosemite on Monday then Big Sur on Tuesday , never needing a restroom , all the while maintaining their six figure income with their corporate job...why aren't you living like a rock star?
Thanks for the old sleeping bag repurposing idea! Good to see the everyday life of other nomads. I went from a backpacker's stove to a one burner electric one; I can really control the temperature better with it. It was around $12.00 on amazon & has a regular house plugin, but it could be converted to a 12v. "Inusa" is the brand name. Another nice thing about electric is it puts an end to buying fuel & not being able to recycle the cans. It also has a small footprint; been using it for a year w/ no issues. (u brought up stove problems in one of ur other vids, sorry, not this one.)
You’re welcome. I prefer propane for cooking. I have a GasOne duel fuel stove that is awesome. I keep a green bottle as a backup but use a one gallon refillable propane bottle.
Thanks for sharing a nice day and helping the lady in need. I just love those slow and quiet days that start with waking up at my own pace, cooking some breakfast (must include fried eggs!) and maybe even a soak in hot springs. This video reminded me of that and I had to smile all the way through it. Thoughtfully preparing your own meals with healthy ingredients is one of the best gifts you can give to yourself and others too. Hardly mundane!
I think there are several in WA and remember Rick over at Dream Side Out mentioning one at some point. Would love to hear about any of your experiences!!
Enjoyed watching the daily chores. For those of us who live out on the road it's nice to learn different way of doing things. Also I'd imagine it would give some great perspective to those thinking of doing this and the day to day stuff - not all days are gems. Take care.
You are very handsome!! 👍. I read awhile back about your stove's valve issue from consumer online comments. Either a full flame or off. Not much in between. Good luck with your next stove! 😊
Huh! I had no idea the stove had issues. I figured something was worn in it. Thanks for the message, you get the nice compliment of the day gold star ⭐️ ☺️
I have a two burner Coleman camp stove. It has three settings - off, high, and flames of Hell. I've improved its performance with a heat diffuser - reducer. You can get them on Amazon for 7 or 8 bucks.
Blimey,, ya like ya food....! "I'm in bed watching this video and now you've made me blooming hungry..." Excellent video upload 👍 'London UK, take care '
I thought it was a great video. I found it very informative because I was wondering what it was really like on a day-to-day basis living in a van, the type of chores you have and how you spend your time. Your van is the type of van I was looking to convert, the smaller type. Possibly the Nissan NV 200 which is the equivalent to the RAM Pro master city. Great video actually. The day in the life of a true van dweller. Great.
Thanks, I appreciate your feedback. Not to be a naysayer but I don’t think much of the Nissan. My van has the most horsepower and payload of all the small vans and it’s just barely sufficient. I think the Transit Connect is a better alternative.
Have you ever thought of cutting your own hair? There are devices (e.g. Robo Cut) that make it easy to get a good looking cut while saving a bundle of money.
Doh, I thought you were going for the $13 buzz cut? Beam me up Scotty, it's NEVER too cold for ice cream laddie!! Your dull days are not nearly as dull as mine, I'm sorry to say :-( Oh the misery of it, time to break out the conciliatory chocolate bar :-) Woo hoo!
Great video! Was wondering though is your job a temporary job as some travel to different work jobs or is it a more permanent thing for now. Love your comfy van and ramen is yummy
I took my current job with the intention of just staying a few months. But the job is a good one so I’m thinking of trying to get hired on as a regular employee. I’m not sure about all of it but I am entertaining the idea.
Amen to the water machine dilema! I'm from az and we've got em on every corner. Now I'm in Seattle an they're scarce...people don't drink as much water up here I don't think.
Ha, it’s a small world! The metal is too thin to “cook” on enamel mugs. But heating up cans of soup or making oatmeal is ok. Got to keep a very low flame or the food burns easily.
❤ Scott just enjoy your Hair while it's thick growing,curly, Healthy! Because when you get older it's going to thin out! Then you're going to say where's my Hair going? 👍🤩🙏🙌👌✌️🤞🌅🌄🇺🇸🌞✨
A few people have messaged me to say that their Colman stoves have caught fire. Now I’m thinking it is best to find a new stove. I’ve got good use out of it, $40 to buy it and I’ve used it over a year. Not too bad really.
Your Hair looks ok although short hair is easier to maintain. You're a good citizen helping those in distress .. but be careful, some predators use that trick. I don't like "Cholula" either, I prefer "Sriracha HOT chilli Sauce"
I used to have the same stove...it got hard to control and then one night it blew up into a huge fireball and burned me and I threw I out after I was too scared to use it. Be careful and buy a new stove if you don't want yours to do the same thing. I replaced it with a different Coleman two burner ad that one shot fire out the input tube area and melted my floor...threw it out too. Then 3 or 4 years ago I got a Stansport on clearance and it had held up fine...Stansport isn't isn't good brand but it has by far outperformed my Colemans. My take: Stay away from Coleman stoves, most other brands are better imho. The old Colemans were better, they don't make em like that anymore. Camp chef is a decent brand...but like I said, I think Coleman stoves are dangerous.
Wow, that’s nice of you to share your experience. I agree with you that Coleman quality isn’t great. I’m leaning towards the dual fuel stove. I was waiting for a deal but your story may push me to replace the darn thing soon.
Old joke, but one of my faves as a camping person: A man jumps out of an airplane with a parachute on his back. As he's falling, he realizes his chute is broken. He doesn't know anything about parachutes, but as the earth rapidly approaches, he realizes his options are limited; he takes off the parachute and tries to fix it himself on the way down. The wind is ripping past his face, he's dropping like a rock, and at 5000 feet, another man goes shooting up past him. In desperation, the man with the chute looks up and yells, "Hey, do you know anything about parachutes?!" The guy flying up looks down and yells, "No, do you know anything about Coleman stoves?!" 😁
I saw some blurb that said Ramen was going to offer a low-sodium version, but I haven't found it. The sodium is what makes it (and canned goods in general) bad for you. Static is so big and fat that he probably has high blood pressure, and sodium aggravates that.
Even small amounts of the flavor packets from regular Ramen bring on migraines with me. I have found a ramen sold in health food stores that doesn’t give me any ill effects, so I keep a few on hand.
Static CamperVan nice. Korean grocery stores like Hmart have a lot of different variety too. I have a nice portable single gas burner from there that's pretty easy to control the flame.
I plan on doing that but I’m always a little hesitant to show my spots in case I want to use them again. Haha! But I will film a video next time I am out of town.
Static CamperVan well, maybe do it it travel around in Washington, but not right in home base. Plus if you don't say street signs and just show what appeals to you. Do you have 30 spots and rotate? Or 10 spots and rotate? Do you stay only one night or more?
I have a slightly different view than others. I use 4 or 5 spots at the most. I figure people will get used to seeing my van if I park there often. And then I am just a regular van in the neighborhood.
I'm not a huge fan of the Cholula either... I don't really dislike it I just like the flavor of others much better....... a while back I got some hot sauce given to me that had caffeine in it. Called double kick.. the caffeine was kind of gimmicky but I did feel it I didn't really care either way I get enough caffeine already but the flavor of the hot sauce was really REALLY good. I've never seen it in stores but I bet I could find it online I might have to order another jar soon now that I'm talking about it : )
I blame marketing! Haha! My family used to use Pico Pica and I hated it. I just want something hot that doesn’t taste like chemicals. Maybe I should buy a bottle of Pico Pica!
Static CamperVan whenever I see a Del Taco I always load up on this sauces I kind of like them too : ) ... but yeah we always had that Pico Pica stuff too and Tabasco which I still always keep some Tabasco and the Cholula and sometimes other weird ones that my parents would bring home some good some not so much
Hey Campervan, I use a salsa/hot sauce called "the pepper tree" however I do not like hot sauce that is hot, this brand has for me anyway a little more flavor than heat, just a thought, tc
Nice to see how you live, not just where your live. I would suggest that you buy a pressure cooker because then you can make your meals couple of times a week and then heat portions for the rest of the week. If you do your pressure cooking outside you would not have to deal with the steam/moisture in the van. I have 6 liter (about 2 gallon) and each time I use it I make 4-5 good size meals. Cooking time 22 minutes if there's meat in it or 15/16 minutes if only vegetables.
Yann Kitson Love my pressure cooker! And in a off grid application it’s so cool because of cooking so fast and using less energy, probably half as much! And it’s the only way I’ve been able to cook rice perfect every time, brown or white. Excellent suggestion;)
Get a Hawkins pressure cooker. It’s a stovetop one. They work great and use zero electricity. They come in different sizes as well. I have a small one and love it.
I love Ramen but usually get the soba noodles for health reason mix peanut butter with spices makes a thai meal just google really good on a cold night. Check out Freezer bag cooking lots of good ideas The ziplock ones can be burned safely.
Mr. Static, a few points of order: 1 ) At least you have hair, darn it!, 2) By inference from a prior comment, am I to assume that you are not currently employed as a beach model?, 3) Years after college, I remember running into a woman I knew back as a student. And I asked her, "Aren't choLula?" And she responded, "I cho am." (By the way, do you think that it is easy to work this hard just to get a potentially meager laugh?), 4) You at least could have shown us your new pocket knife. Well, I guess that covers it, if I think of anything else, I'll be sure to let you know.
You got more than a meager laugh!
I didn’t find a knife I liked, I’m still looking. I shall report the impending discovery forthwith.
I've carried a knife since I was 6. My current one is made by CutCo. and I have nothing bad to say about it but your needs may be different than mine. Look them up.
I will look for them.
Lula?
Your life in a van is very much like mine. But thin I'm 73, so I'm slowing down some so its okay with me. I live the van life and the freedom it give me. I don't want to sit in a apartment the rest of my life. Happy trials my friend.
Nice to hear vanlife is working for you too!
I don't think your day was boring. It's kind of calming to watch you just do ordinary things. It's a peaceful life. You've got a new subscribe from me!
Hey, Thanks :^)
I like this video - mundane or not, it gives a nice look at what it's like living and cooking in your van. You were a good guy for helping that woman out.
Thanks. You would’ve done the same for that lady.
Day in the life videos are the best for people viewing your type channel. It’s the lifestyle itself that is the draw because it is so different. No need for the apologetic tone. I used to watch Chad from living the van life. I loved those raw videos. He was in the Seattle area as well.
Very interesting. I made this video partly in response to yours and another viewers earlier comments.
Thanks Steve!
Xplorer Steve DIY , I agree. I remember watching Chad too.
Xplorer Steve DIY agree, loved this video!
Life is good... at least the money that your spending goes into something that's yours.... you own your own home, you travel whenever the mood hits you, just continue to do your videos...there is always someone that's watching that appreciates it.....
I enjoy making videos. It’s nice to hear someone likes them.
Sleeping bag with zipper to insulate your van from cab is brilliant!!
In all fairness, One Awesome Inch did this first :^)
Like others do, I look to you for an honest, balanced view of van life without all the hype. Much rather see a chance connection with a stranger made through empathy and kindness than people suntanning themselves on the beaches or showing off the toys they don't have to pay for. As for your cooking, I always mange to find a great idea that is time saving at the same time it is nutritious and economical. Also, recently I'd been craving ice cream but it's been too cold to eat it, so your dessert had me wondering why I hadn't thought of that.
Very nice of you to take the time leave your thoughts.
As for the lack of suntanning videos, I’m in Seattle, otherwise... :^)
I have been looking into traveling in a van. The everyday video's and laid back approach you have is really a lot of help.. Thank YOU
You are welcome. Thanks for taking the time to drop me a comment. I really appreciate it.
a wise man once told me its really not the content we watch,,, its the person... Cheers
Sounds like a smart guy 😉✌🏼
Enjoyed your video..... it warmed my heart! What you felt was just a simple act of kindness in an “ordinary mundane day” .... could have changed the trajectory of someone else’s day/life ..... and renewed their faith in mankind in a society that is often overshadowed with hate, judgement, sadness and fear. I hope everyone that watches your video will be inspired to do something nice for someone today!
Ah, that’s a nice takeaway! Thank you!
.......yeah, i carry a pair of jumps just to help others.........if the case looks like a person whose been struggling with 'a life gone wrong'......i give the cables to them, to save them that one hassle in the future........notta a 'wonderful' person.........just found stuff like that improves the quality of my life and the ones i help.......✝
Great sleeping bag repurposing idea. You might have just solved a cold weather problem I have in my sprinter. Thanks for the vlog format. Personally, I find magic in the mundane.
I used to store my sleeping bag in the same way during the summer time. But it was annoying because I had the bag blocking the cab off. It just occurred to me yesterday that I could just cut it and place the zipper in the center.
One Awesome Inch had a similar setup. He bought a bag at a Thrift Store.
That was so nice of you to stop and help the lady with her car. Great video. Like you said, van life isn't all good or bad. I just like that you share every aspect of the lifestyle. It helps others who are thinking about doing it to have a more realistic view of what they would encounter from day to day. Thanks again for sharing your experience.
Thanks, I always appreciate your thoughts. :^)
Brilliant idea with the sleeping bag. Great video!
Thanks! I should have given a shoutout to One Awesome Inch because he thought of this first.
Hey great video! People like to see normal everyday stuff about their favorite TH-camrs. It's kinda fun to see how other people live and how much we are all alike or different.
And good job reusing your sleeping bag! That's an awesome warm curtain you have now! I've done something similar with old blankets on windows and my pass through from my cab as well.(in my old RV) It works great. But you have the cool high tech zipper door! Maybe I'll have to use that on my next rig. Thank you for sharing! :-)
You’re welcome! Thank you for taking the time to leave me a nice message!
Living in a van, with a job, eating Ramen noodles. YOU GOT SERIOUS MONEY in yer pocket but nice play to say otherwise so the ladies don't try to spend your cash! Excellent strategy my friend!
Why you give up my secrets!?!
This time of year it's nice to visit a plant nursery. They're warm and cozy inside, have lots to look at, often have Koi ponds (Swanson Nursery in Ballard has reindeer!) and some have a little cafe. They're all decorated for Christmas and sell Christmas paraphernalia to make ends meet in the winter.
Ah! Great tip! I need to do more exploring in Ballard.
Tacoma has a nice one
So many did perspectives out there..! I’m really enjoying your offering.
I enjoyed your video.... Your hair looks good... I totally agree I have curly hair and damp weather is never kind to it...Thanks for sharing... Take care x
People with straight hair don’t know our struggle! Haha
All the little mundane things are film worthy. Thanks for putting it out there. I retire shortly and I’m considering hitting the road in a van. I need and want your perspective.
Thanks. Any questions or topics you’d like covered, just let me know.
Awwww......Your kindness reflects in the way you talk and live your life. I was once in the same situation as that lady, my car battery went down in a massive shopping centre North London in winter with 2 small children with me, and no one will stop or help even when I asked for what seems to be a long time. It made me so very sad 😔😔I am glad you stopped to help a stranger. Thank you 🙂🙂
Sometimes humanity is disappointing. We’ve all been in the same situation. Everyone is in such a rush, I think it affects their common decency at times.
Thanks for your comments!
Great repurposing of the sleeping bag! Thanks for sharing your day with us!! Happy Trails!
Thank you! I should have mentioned I got the sleeping bag idea from One Awesome Inch.
I've given many a stranded driver a jump. My way of paying it forward. Never know when I may be the one needing a jump. Since you're in the Tacoma area take time to go to the Glass Museum. Wonderful place.
I know what you mean about "mundane life". I lived aboard my sailboat for ten years. Life was pretty normal and mundane. Go to work, cook food, clean the boat. Do laundry. Etc. Some great sailing too.
I think the same thing about me needing a hand sometime.
I drove right past the glass museum, maybe I will stop in next time I’m down there getting a haircut.
Sailboats! That sounds great.
I bought one of those stoves on Amazon. Several of the reviews mentioned a problem with the valve. That's didn't thrill me, but the design seems less prone to rattling than a lot of the stoves. I would get in touch with Coleman, in your situation. It's not just an isolated thing, apparently.
It's an interesting question whether there is really much 'adventure' out there. There are a lot of things that active people can do, but there are other ways to get exercise. They made a movie about a man who thought there were great adventures out there in an RV, Lost in America.
You seem like you have a real humanist sort of point of view. I don't know if there are real communities in the van world. I don't know if the electronic communities help or hurt. Eventually it may balance out. If people want to live simple lives, I'm not sure what the best way to build those structures is.
I left a situation where you were supposed to be married, pushing the career, pushing the kids, never thinking, never really evaluating. I once asked a woman who wanted to marry me whether her life and world wasn't just an empty competition. Competition for the sake of competition. Well, obviously, that didn't work out. That was just one view of 'success' or a satisfying life. People should be able to have a simple job, build some sort of life around that.
This kind of video seems promising, but be willing to think about what you really want.
What interesting, thought provoking comments.
After a year and a half of vanlife, my biggest concern is being able to hold onto this lifestyle. It suits me.
I will undoubtedly come back and reread your message after I have had a chance to let your thoughts sink in.
Thanks.
I agree Mr Sears has a number of really good points. Sustainability? I wish I was back on the boat but you still had rent (slip), Insurance, Personal Property taxes, holding tank issues, etc. Van living seems to have more cost saving aspects but you can count on issue arising around that in the future. (not going there).
The social aspect stems around having a center to connect to to build a few relationships. For friendship or possibly romantic. The level one needs to work that out for themselves.
I don't know what the technology will open up. The Pro Master City is small enough to be a good electric vehicle. If you had a Bolt sized battery and did good insulation at the factory, you could heat and cool it off the battery for several days, maybe weeks. Cities are being pushed to look at alternatives, from tiny houses to vans on the street or other designated spots.
That’s forward thinking. I like it!
Not boring at all. And liked the longer video
Thanks. I’m always trying to cut the time down. It’s nice to know I don’t always need to.
Old sleeping bag... Great idea!..Thanks
It’s an idea I lifted from One Awesome Inch. But Thanks!
Great video.....12 volt crockpot makes awesome meals cook while you drive. Pilot j sell them or truck stops....
Good idea old sleeping bag for insulation, plus privacy for light
Great suggestion, I’ve forgotten about those.
Yeah, I like cooking with A crook pot....
Nice video, nice haircut! My Coleman 2-burner campstove has 2 settings: super high and off.
Yours too? Haha. I am looking at a different stove. I’m done buying Coleman stuff.
Great words for thoughts along with great ideas
Hello. That was so sweet of you to help that woman out. So many people don't care about others. Thank you. The haircut looks good. Be safe and rest well tonight.😴
Thanks, you would have helped her too. I just happened along at that moment. :^)
Well, I like this kind of video, too. You take care. Thanks for sharing.
You’re very welcome!
Appreciate you keeping it real. Enjoyed the vid.
Thanks, I’m happy you liked it.
A real day nice for a change I liked it
That was a really good gesture man, helpign someone in need. I was thinking, would be great to team up with a few other of you van dwellers and pool our resources together to help someone in need. Would be a great way to organize and do something great for the world. just a thought, keep it in mind buddy! btw, awesome fresh content!
You’re a good guy. It’s a great idea to help out if we can. I really respect Jamie for doing his van build meet ups. He’s doing good on a big scale.
9:35 I so really need to work on cooking more in my van, I shop for quick easy stuff but not so much stuff I have to cook. Great vid. man, thx for the insight and realization that is the #vanlife
I spent a lot of time designing the kitchen, I should use it!
Thanks Tim!
No ones life is exciting everyday no matter what they live in! You're just a regular guy!
YES!! More videos like this please. Cool Jacket. Great haircut. You're looking good.I don't think your days are boring at all. I do basically the same things you do. by the way, I like that place you sat for chocolate cake. It looks like a pretty nice store. That stove of yours is crazy. I'd get a new one too. Just in case you deep fry your ceiling. You know it's funny about Brian liking Cholula. I like Brian but not that sauce. I had to run out and get some after seeing him with it so often. What about Sriracha sauce. That stuff is good. It's good to see you eat healthy when you can but man that junk food sometimes is just what a person needs.
Thanks for the kind words. I’ll interview Brian about his obsession for Cholula next time I see him! I’m not a fan of sugary hot sauce either. I like the $2 hot sauce Whole Foods sells but I haven’t been shopping there recently.
I’ll start shopping for a new stove, you make a good point about it melting my van down!
I found that the Coleman Powerpack is infinitely adjustable. The only thing I don't like is that my tiny, one-egg pan sits a bit too low on it. I am going to jury-rig something to hold the pan up a bit higher, or buy a flame-tamer. I got rid of my two-burner, because the Powerpack is so much better.
If you are having trouble with it, notify Coleman. They are good about honoring warranties.
I’m happy to hear it’s working out for you. I have my eyes on a new stove that I hope will work better for me. I wish the Powerpack had a windscreen.
Mundane and boring are good sometimes and keeps the stress level down .Good job just showing a regular day in your life .
Thank you
Thank for putting out videp, it is video worthy watching a Nomad experience and only a natural Nomad heart can understand why I watch a real Nomad's video... be blessed, be safe..
Thank you! :^)
If you like your stove, you might consider taking the gas valve apart and putting in a new O-ring/cleaning. Perhaps it's not user servicable. Spork sighting!! 😉
Honestly, getting one with a built in piezo igniter would be worth the cost. I’ve bought about a dozen stick lighters since they seem to be unreliable as well.
Static CamperVan Absolutely, somehow I missed that point.
That was a cutting room floor comment. I was adding to the reasons I am thinking of getting a new stove.
Static CamperVan ☺👍
a beautiful video. thank you for this video. You are a real bless.
I'm a new subscriber and have been checking out a few of your older videos. I just wanted to say that your videos are a lot more interesting than a lot of the van life people/videos I have viewed. Many are churning out pretty much the same video each time, even though they may be visiting a new city or area of the country. Thanks for keeping it interesting, and educating me at the same time!
Thanks. That means a lot.
Wait a minute. I see all these channels with hot models on the beach, surfing, living with their four dogs, building complex sleep systems on the fly, Yosemite on Monday then Big Sur on Tuesday , never needing a restroom , all the while maintaining their six figure income with their corporate job...why aren't you living like a rock star?
You caught me. It’s all make believe ;^)
Lol... ! Don’t forget your thumbnail with your ass out... that will bring all the clicks to the yard
Thanks for the old sleeping bag repurposing idea! Good to see the everyday life of other nomads. I went from a backpacker's stove to a one burner electric one; I can really control the temperature better with it. It was around $12.00 on amazon & has a regular house plugin, but it could be converted to a 12v. "Inusa" is the brand name. Another nice thing about electric is it puts an end to buying fuel & not being able to recycle the cans. It also has a small footprint; been using it for a year w/ no issues. (u brought up stove problems in one of ur other vids, sorry, not this one.)
You’re welcome.
I prefer propane for cooking. I have a GasOne duel fuel stove that is awesome. I keep a green bottle as a backup but use a one gallon refillable propane bottle.
Thanks for sharing a nice day and helping the lady in need. I just love those slow and quiet days that start with waking up at my own pace, cooking some breakfast (must include fried eggs!) and maybe even a soak in hot springs. This video reminded me of that and I had to smile all the way through it. Thoughtfully preparing your own meals with healthy ingredients is one of the best gifts you can give to yourself and others too. Hardly mundane!
Thanks! I need to find a hot spring. It may be just the ticket.
I think there are several in WA and remember Rick over at Dream Side Out mentioning one at some point. Would love to hear about any of your experiences!!
Will do. From what I’ve read, there’s an easy hike hot spring in Olympic.
:)
I really like the sleeping bag idea between Cargo area and front seating area. 😎
Thanks Bill. I should have given credit to One Awesome Inch, as I got the idea from him.
Mundane? You spoke to two women in one day. That's more than I get in a month... and don't get me started on the cake AND eggnog.
Haha!
Hahaha! Eggnog is melted ice cream! That was brilliant and priceless. LOL
It’s true!
Like the video and good to see daily stuff. It's not all about travel everyday like other channels. It's real. Look forward to more.
Thanks Lois.
Enjoyed watching the daily chores. For those of us who live out on the road it's nice to learn different way of doing things. Also I'd imagine it would give some great perspective to those thinking of doing this and the day to day stuff - not all days are gems. Take care.
Thanks. I always want to be careful to not glamorize vanlife.
You are very handsome!! 👍. I read awhile back about your stove's valve issue from consumer online comments. Either a full flame or off. Not much in between. Good luck with your next stove! 😊
Huh! I had no idea the stove had issues. I figured something was worn in it. Thanks for the message, you get the nice compliment of the day gold star ⭐️ ☺️
I have a two burner Coleman camp stove. It has three settings - off, high, and flames of Hell. I've improved its performance with a heat diffuser - reducer. You can get them on Amazon for 7 or 8 bucks.
Haha, sounds like a Coleman! I will keep your suggestion in mind. I’m going to buy a new stove, hopefully it will have better control.
Blimey,, ya like ya food....! "I'm in bed watching this video and now you've made me blooming hungry..."
Excellent video upload 👍 'London UK, take care '
Haha! Thanks, sorry for the trouble!
Static CamperVan ....LOL :)) 👍
That sleeping bag you used as a divider is great idea!!!👍
Thanks. The blackout curtain insulates pretty well, but adding the sleeping bag has added a lot more comfort.
Funny how similar your day was in my home yesterday! Nice video too, looking forward to another like this:)
I appreciate it, Thanks!
Agree on the Cholula. It’s kind of vinegary. I like salsa more. I like the Trader Joe’s 21 spices too.
Yes, it’s Too vinegary. I like the hot sauce because it doesn’t need to be refrigerated. Salsa is better!
I thought it was a great video. I found it very informative because I was wondering what it was really like on a day-to-day basis living in a van, the type of chores you have and how you spend your time. Your van is the type of van I was looking to convert, the smaller type. Possibly the Nissan NV 200 which is the equivalent to the RAM Pro master city. Great video actually. The day in the life of a true van dweller. Great.
Thanks, I appreciate your feedback.
Not to be a naysayer but I don’t think much of the Nissan. My van has the most horsepower and payload of all the small vans and it’s just barely sufficient. I think the Transit Connect is a better alternative.
You could have added some excitement by getting the $13 buzz cut advertised on the front window. No maintenance cut.
Haha! I opted for the $29 cut printed on the other window
Have you ever thought of cutting your own hair? There are devices (e.g. Robo Cut) that make it easy to get a good looking cut while saving a bundle of money.
You know, I rather like having a young pretty lady cut my hair. I make no apologies for it :^)
Doh, I thought you were going for the $13 buzz cut? Beam me up Scotty, it's NEVER too cold for ice cream laddie!! Your dull days are not nearly as dull as mine, I'm sorry to say :-(
Oh the misery of it, time to break out the conciliatory chocolate bar :-) Woo hoo!
I enjoyed this. ☺
Thanks Sir!
Realy great video. Enjoyed it immensely.
Thanks a lot!
Great video! Was wondering though is your job a temporary job as some travel to different work jobs or is it a more permanent thing for now. Love your comfy van and ramen is yummy
I took my current job with the intention of just staying a few months. But the job is a good one so I’m thinking of trying to get hired on as a regular employee. I’m not sure about all of it but I am entertaining the idea.
Amen to the water machine dilema! I'm from az and we've got em on every corner. Now I'm in Seattle an they're scarce...people don't drink as much water up here I don't think.
I wonder if it has something to do with a possibility of the machines freezing? Or maybe people drink more tap water.
Static CamperVan maybe the machines would freeze...I never thought of that.
Where it's hot people sweat more, and drink more water eh?
ohhh don't burn yourself! that looked good. egg nog season, boys!
Always enjoy your videos, no matter the subject. Take care.
Thanks, I really appreciate that.
Life is life, whether you are on wheels or planted.
Your hair cut looks good!
Thank you!
Sportsmans!! I use to work there. I never thought to cook in the enamel mugs. Do you think it is safe on most camp stoves?
Ha, it’s a small world! The metal is too thin to “cook” on enamel mugs. But heating up cans of soup or making oatmeal is ok. Got to keep a very low flame or the food burns easily.
Okay! Thanks
Thanks for sharing ;)
You’re welcome!
good job, Brian
Yep, Coleman is hard to get a simmer.
❤ Scott just enjoy your Hair while it's thick growing,curly, Healthy! Because when you get older it's going to thin out! Then you're going to say where's my Hair going? 👍🤩🙏🙌👌✌️🤞🌅🌄🇺🇸🌞✨
I’m already old! 😂
Maybe add a secondary base to raise it up. So not close to flame, then it might "simmer".
A few people have messaged me to say that their Colman stoves have caught fire. Now I’m thinking it is best to find a new stove. I’ve got good use out of it, $40 to buy it and I’ve used it over a year. Not too bad really.
That was thoughtful of you to jump her car...i do that to when I see people in need. We like Sportsmans Warehouse too. Life is what you make it!
Your life is looking extra nice now!
You've had one heck of a busy day. 👌
✌🏼🚐🙂
If I stopped to jumpstart someone I’d be talking about it for two days. That’s how exciting my days are.
Haha!
Your Hair looks ok although short hair is easier to maintain. You're a good citizen helping those in distress .. but be careful, some predators use that trick. I don't like "Cholula" either, I prefer "Sriracha HOT chilli Sauce"
My gut is pretty good at detecting foul play ahead. My gut is Not so good at buying a hot sauce I actually like!
For a few bucks, just get the hot sauce you love. Life is too short. 😊
That’s the spirit! Trouble is, I am kinda boycotting Whole Foods so this is a bit of a dilemma. 🤔
I used to have the same stove...it got hard to control and then one night it blew up into a huge fireball and burned me and I threw I out after I was too scared to use it. Be careful and buy a new stove if you don't want yours to do the same thing. I replaced it with a different Coleman two burner ad that one shot fire out the input tube area and melted my floor...threw it out too. Then 3 or 4 years ago I got a Stansport on clearance and it had held up fine...Stansport isn't isn't good brand but it has by far outperformed my Colemans.
My take: Stay away from Coleman stoves, most other brands are better imho. The old Colemans were better, they don't make em like that anymore. Camp chef is a decent brand...but like I said, I think Coleman stoves are dangerous.
Wow, that’s nice of you to share your experience. I agree with you that Coleman quality isn’t great. I’m leaning towards the dual fuel stove. I was waiting for a deal but your story may push me to replace the darn thing soon.
Old joke, but one of my faves as a camping person: A man jumps out of an airplane with a parachute on his back. As he's falling, he realizes his chute is broken. He doesn't know anything about parachutes, but as the earth rapidly approaches, he realizes his options are limited; he takes off the parachute and tries to fix it himself on the way down. The wind is ripping past his face, he's dropping like a rock, and at 5000 feet, another man goes shooting up past him. In desperation, the man with the chute looks up and yells, "Hey, do you know anything about parachutes?!"
The guy flying up looks down and yells, "No, do you know anything about Coleman stoves?!" 😁
Haha!
I saw some blurb that said Ramen was going to offer a low-sodium version, but I haven't found it. The sodium is what makes it (and canned goods in general) bad for you. Static is so big and fat that he probably has high blood pressure, and sodium aggravates that.
Ha! You’ve solved the case. Actually the high sodium, MSG and artificial flavors gives me migraines.
Just add half the seasoning?
Even small amounts of the flavor packets from regular Ramen bring on migraines with me. I have found a ramen sold in health food stores that doesn’t give me any ill effects, so I keep a few on hand.
Static CamperVan nice. Korean grocery stores like Hmart have a lot of different variety too. I have a nice portable single gas burner from there that's pretty easy to control the flame.
Thanks. I did look at HMart for a stove. They have nice stoves but I found one that works better for me on Amazon.
So much better with the short beard!
Great vid...
Thanks!
Ok, you have enough comments, so I'll just give a like 😊👍🐧
🙏🏼☺️
Feel free to show us how you pick sites. When I drive around, I imagine how it might work out when I see a spot.
I plan on doing that but I’m always a little hesitant to show my spots in case I want to use them again. Haha! But I will film a video next time I am out of town.
Static CamperVan well, maybe do it it travel around in Washington, but not right in home base. Plus if you don't say street signs and just show what appeals to you.
Do you have 30 spots and rotate? Or 10 spots and rotate? Do you stay only one night or more?
I have a slightly different view than others. I use 4 or 5 spots at the most. I figure people will get used to seeing my van if I park there often. And then I am just a regular van in the neighborhood.
Your hair looks great!
Thanks! :^)
You're welcome. It's true though, your hair seems super nice.
Terrific video of a real life day. I hope you’re going to the RTR in January. I’d enjoy talking with you. Safe travels my friend.
The RTR is looking unlikely this year. But with any luck I will be there.
Sleeping bag 💡 perfecto
☺️✌🏼
I'm not a huge fan of the Cholula either... I don't really dislike it I just like the flavor of others much better....... a while back I got some hot sauce given to me that had caffeine in it. Called double kick.. the caffeine was kind of gimmicky but I did feel it I didn't really care either way I get enough caffeine already but the flavor of the hot sauce was really REALLY good. I've never seen it in stores but I bet I could find it online I might have to order another jar soon now that I'm talking about it : )
I blame marketing! Haha! My family used to use Pico Pica and I hated it. I just want something hot that doesn’t taste like chemicals. Maybe I should buy a bottle of Pico Pica!
Static CamperVan whenever I see a Del Taco I always load up on this sauces I kind of like them too : )
... but yeah we always had that Pico Pica stuff too and Tabasco which I still always keep some Tabasco and the Cholula and sometimes other weird ones that my parents would bring home some good some not so much
I love your videos
Love your videos.
Aww, thanks!
You ate cake before dinner. Nuff said. 👍 😃
Haha! I do what I want 😁
Hey Campervan, I use a salsa/hot sauce called "the pepper tree" however I do not like hot sauce that is hot, this brand has for me anyway a little more flavor than heat, just a thought, tc
👍👍♥️♥️
Your first minute of words got the thumb up from me dude.
Our perspective/perception of reality is too narrow. Reality is all facts. It really doesn't matter what others think.
Excellent comment!
Congratulations on a very mundane v-log! Well done!
Hahahah! Touché!
Nice to see how you live, not just where your live. I would suggest that you buy a pressure cooker because then you can make your meals couple of times a week and then heat portions for the rest of the week. If you do your pressure cooking outside you would not have to deal with the steam/moisture in the van. I have 6 liter (about 2 gallon) and each time I use it I make 4-5 good size meals. Cooking time 22 minutes if there's meat in it or 15/16 minutes if only vegetables.
Yann Kitson Love my pressure cooker! And in a off grid application it’s so cool because of cooking so fast and using less energy, probably half as much! And it’s the only way I’ve been able to cook rice perfect every time, brown or white. Excellent suggestion;)
Get a Hawkins pressure cooker. It’s a stovetop one. They work great and use zero electricity. They come in different sizes as well. I have a small one and love it.
Great advice! Thanks
I love Ramen but usually get the soba noodles for health reason mix peanut butter with spices makes a thai meal just google really good on a cold night. Check out Freezer bag cooking lots of good ideas The ziplock ones can be burned safely.
Your hair looked fine
I’m mostly trying to keep my hair short because it’s easier to comb and deal with in the mornings.