Hi LB, how do you handle vehicle insurance?? I’m calling companies trying to find out how to insure my pickup with a camper top. So far they’re all adamant: no insurance if you’re living in it. They’ll insure an RV with no address, but not a passenger vehicle. 😟 I know there are options - use UPS as an address, borrow a friend’s, but it’s actually fraud and I don’t want to break the law or have a serious accident and be denied. Being hit by an uninsured driver is a concern too. I’ve been hit twice in the past year! I’d think this would be a popular video topic, but I seriously can’t find anyone talking about how to do this! I have a good job, want to stay in my city. But the rent… I have 2 roommates and it’s still tough. Rent is my biggest expense - would be nice to give that up. I’d appreciate any insurance advice you could offer. 😊
As a trucker, the best advice i can offer for anyone considering vanlife is to have a long sit down talk with a trucker. We live on the road professionally. We know how to drive long distances, the wear the life takes on you. And what you can expect. Where and how to find bathrooms and showers, food, etc. And warn about the dangerous and sketchy things you WILL see and experience.
That is indeed great advice!!! My uncle was a trucker. He is a great resource. I also feel so safe at most truck stops. I find the best gadgets and gear by seeing what through hikers and truckers do!!!! You rock 💃🏻🚗 🥰
@T.J-and-Soul it provides context and shows that my statements are coming from a place of actual knowledge, not just talking about something i know nothing about. Quite the innocuous phrasing to get upset about in my opinion. How would you of phrased it?
One thing I noticed as a tour bus driver, MY FEET HURT! I've waitresses, bartender and danced a million miles in spike high heels, but driving is hard. I found that diabetic socks help tremendously. .ove your videos and advice.
I’m glad some Van lifers are finally getting real, I’ve lived in a 4 wheel drive sprinter van since 2020 and have no regrets. It’s real life with a minimalist lifestyle and not for everyone, some vlogs make it look so awesome without the daily life issues which still exist. Her video is legitimately helpful to those considering this lifestyle. What I like about van life is I never forget anything because my home is always with me. My downtime is reading and playing guitar.
I am currently in Europe and experienced a kind of travel exhaustion last year. slow down if you can. I drive max 300 km a day, on small roads 200, stop every hour and stretch a bit and if the place i reach is nice i stay for at least a day. slowing down really has its benefits.
Don’t you think a lot is a mind game, we must be content with what we have.imagine being homeless, how fortunate we are having our little home on wheels. Thx for your info, those things are very real❤️
“Little home on wheels.” What a great name for a TH-cam channel! (My apologies if someone has already done that!). I love the sentiment, though. One’s mindset is everything.
chuckles. all that should be a daily thing for more people. It's coming that we all going to loose most of those modern conveniences when the Grid goes down. water goes down. internet and phones will go down. at least van life has choices that are based on one's ability to build / DIY your own system, save money, and thus know how to repair it when something fails. all necessary things.
Great video! One more thing, make sure you are comfortable with your own company. You may or may not find a “tribe”. And probably not immediately. But alone time is something to cherish! I just love your videos!
You WILL find your tribe! I also am planning this out to begin next winter/January. I’m taking my pets and we’re going west. First to possibly Quartzite, AZ and then up the coast through Cali to Oregon. I think I’d like to stay in OR. I’m in dreary 8 ft of snow Cleveland. I can’t take it anymore. Not just the weather because I love Canada, just feels like there’a lot of economic desperation here & people seem wound up real tight. The east coast is like that, though. The west coast people are so different - so much more relaxed, not stressing over every single thing. There’s ahuge difference. Whem younger I thought I could never leave this area for good but I feel differently now. Where I choose to live has a huge impact on my quality of life. Take care and you’re going to have great time. There will be some days harder than others but I saw in another comment section advice to “not treat this like a long vacation as it’s NOT a vacation it’s a lifestyle now.” 🇺🇸
Im sitting here watching this post now. I want you to know that you are the reason that I am in the middle of converting my van. I just happened on your videos but you are my go to channel to learn what I need to learn to get my van ready and get myself ready to make this next chapter in my life. For the past 15 to 20 years I have slowly changed into a hermit. And this is not my normal personality but I have withdrawn from the public and from everything that I used to enjoy doing and so I have taken up this idea of going out on the road with my van to learn how to redo those things that I used to enjoy doing enjoying life so I look forward to this and you have taught me so much about the van life and what I need to do to prepare for it and I just want to thank you and keep doing what you're doing because it does matter it does matter to each and everyone of us. By the way... you and my sister-in-law are just exact twins. .
Wow, thank you for sharing this, Julia! It means so much. I relate to what you say about having withdrawn from so much of life. I think that was also a part of what compelled me as well. Hope to see you (and my twin) out and about some day😁
Oh yes please to an in-van exercise video! Bet that would be so helpful to us all. Working out in a small space is hugely challenging! Go on Dee, be brave! 🤣👍🏻💙 best wishes from England 🇬🇧
Once again, a timely video for me… 3rd week into van life these are all the things I’m experiencing and working out the bugs. Thank you for sharing because it is truly helping me. Altho I’ve been planning this and following all advice for a couple of years, it’s all different once you’re fully living in a vehicle day to day!❤ whew, am I ever learning😅
👋👩🐞 great video ! ❤ that your keeping it real ! Also planning ahead ! Never know when you'll need tires or repairs exc.. as you said ! ❤ IT🤗👍 TY for sharing! Be safe/ Be Happy & I'll see you on the next video!🙂
I have a similar sized van and I lived in it for about a month every last 5 summers. Never had an issue. Experimented with how to manage hygien and toilet etc and now have a simple system that works perfectly. Thinking of going full time soon. It's the psycological part that can be an issue. Not the practical things like most people think.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and ideas, concerns and solutions! I am not van living currently, but you always seem to answer my questions about it with your videos. I did think that I can actually apply a lot of what you suggest in everyday life. Planning , budgeting, having gratitude, understanding the value of alone time, having special hobbies and interests, all these things you mentioned and I feel that they are important skills to have to living one's best life everyday. Thanks Dee, have a great week and I really enjoy your videos! 😀🥰👋👍
I’m so glad the tips are applicable to everyday life anywhere! I didn’t think of it that way, but it makes me feel good that it transfers beyond Van life!!!
Your description of U.S. motorists being "rule followers" is so kind! And thanks for opening up a consideration of our perspective and adaptation to such new conditions. Seems to me that the less I really know myself the bigger the shock I'm in for. For instance, if I have an expectation that overcoming the physical and emotional challenges will make me a stronger, better person -- well, that may not work out so well. If instead, I can view each new challenge as a chance to evaluate my response impartially, with fresh eyes, it may lead to a decluttering not only of the space around me, but of the landscape inside. And so that this doesn't become a tedious chore, it's well to remember that this situation is one that I have, or could have, voluntarily chosen. And always, as part of your self care activity, don't forget to include regular human contacts!
Yes wr have to be rule followers on the road as there are so many of us. Anytime of the night or day you can expect loaded freeways & roads. If you don’t follow the rules you can expect to die. That’s the motivation. You are trusting a lot of other people with your very life. Americans know what they’re doing behind the wheel. I have driven in many countries. America is where you’re the safest on the road. And it’s where you’re going to moving the fastest. The faster you go the more danger, Everybody just wants to get home to their families. Or their dogs! 🇺🇸
I've always enjoyed driving, including long distances alone. A memorable time was when my daughters became good drivers themselves, to the point where I'd sleep on a trip with either of them driving. I know what I good feeling I get when someone regularly dozes off with no worries while I'm driving, because it does require trust and respect. It's surprising how much more stuff you notice from the passenger seat, when not having to pay attention to driving.
EXCELLENT advice. Been traveling part-time in a class B for 2 years with my partner and you’ve beautifully covered every last thing ive slowly learned thru trial and error. Bravo! A masterpiece!🙌🏻
Thank you so much LBO, I really enjoy your thoughtful, intelligent and organized approach to van living. I think your van is the most clean and comfortable looking I've seen. You also have a beautiful, fresh look and are a pleasure to watch and listen to.
Whenever I decide on taking a long trip, I try and figure out where I'll be by late afternoon or early evening. I take full advantage of highway rest stops as it allows me to rest up, use the bathroom and not worry about breakdowns far away from a town. I find it best to shop daily or whenever I have to get something that doesn't keep for very long. If roadside markets, farm produce or eggs and bakery items are available, I take advantage as fresh is better than whatever sits on a shelf or in a cooler for unknown periods of time. Clothes, try shopping at an Amish auction, a store where clothes are made for everyday wear as the quality is more on par with the price you pay. There's something about Amish and people who work close to the ground and family that makes me feel good, happier and sometimes in awe of how great it is to meet them and be around them even for a few hours.
I totally agree-taking walks and stretching whenever you can is extremely important for keeping yourself healthy. The Info. on how to work with the inconveniences throughout traveling, is greatly appreciated. Thanks for sharing!!🤗🚙🏞🏡
Something I do when shopping for food for my van is that while I am still at the store I try to go ahead and place the items into the storage I will be using so that I can leave any unneeded trash right there in the store. For example, if I want eggs, I crack them into a jar and then leave the container and shells either in the recycle or trash. I hear you about the stiffness! I LOVE the rooftop deck for this reason. Nothing is better at getting my shoulders, back, and neck back into the correct position than that roof! We can build up a lot of tenseness when driving. Remember to take deep breaths throughout the drive too! Sometimes I find myself taking shallow breaths or even holding my breath when in traffic. As always, LOVE your content and am very thankful for everything. I am usually able to only be out a couple of weeks at a time, so I still have much to learn about the long-haul. I say I am still practicing!
I’ve been traveling in my van for two years now. And can relate to many of the things you mentioned. The thing I miss the most is having daily access to a shower. I manage well but when I get the opportunity to shower 🚿 I do ! Thanks for sharing your observations & experiences. Hope to see ya down the road someday 🙏🏽
I found while traveling I use Noxema skin cream . It can be put on then and with damp or moistened paper towels rinsed off , leaving you well refreshed .Thanks .
I spent a month traveling in my FJ Cruiser as a test. I loved it and was fine with the challenges you describe. My future plan is a year-long trip around the USA. One month wasn’t nearly long enough.
Thanks for another great video Dee. Your genuine nature and excellent communication skills serve you and all of us well. I appreciate you more than can be expressed. God bless you and your journey Dee.
Dee, I have been watching videos on minimalism and trying to simplify my life. What you share in all of your videos really helps me to desire putting into practice. When we declutter and have a routine, our stress lessons and we are able to relax. I also appreciate that you practice as close to a zero waste lifestyle as you can!! Great job again! Safe travels and enjoy the journey!
Hey Ms. Dee ! Planning ahead has it's rewards, for sure. Playing by ear also has it's place. I used to travel by motorcycle a lot, and have slept on many a picnic table. I understand that it's not for everyone. But there is a kind of freedom about it.
You always provide such helpful information! What is helpful to me, is that I have done this before for over two and a half years. Now that I'm going back to wheels it will not be very difficult. Also, I am primarily stationary, which also helps with costs and stress. Thank you! 💕
WTG Dee and as always, you nailed it! Perhaps #6 for many of us is maintenance/repair of our vehicle and gear. Fortunately for a minimalist like you, you don't have as much "stuff" to cause troubles but then there's the occasional gotchas when dealing with electronics, computer devices, internet, etc - especially for us TH-camrs. Yet in the long run it's worth way more than the price of admission! Happy trails, Michael and Grace
Yes! That’s a very good point. I do have as part of my budget, a regular maintenance and emergency fund! So far that has served me well. We’ll see as Lady Bugout gets older still 😜
Love campsite Sudoku! I also have scratch-off hangman puzzle books that I enjoy. And--I love playing old-fashioned solitaire with real cards. I've gotten a lot of smiles from passing campers while playing solitaire on my picnic table (on a non-windy day). People love to call out and ask who's winning!
That was perfect Ms. Lady bug. I sold my home, then bought my van, and between the coldest of days here on New England I have worked trying to set up my living space. Most important of all, for me is the loneliness, the stresses of trying to live stealthy
@Lady Bugout Thank you for the encouragement...maybe it just takes some time to get use to this way of life. I almost feel hethanistic, yet liberated and free all at the same time, which may be what's pulling me in so many directions. Thank you for paving the way in ur own small way.
Wonderful video and information. I traveled solo with my small dog 10-15 years ago. I loved the life but i was in a 26' motorhome with all the conveniences. It was very expensive. I am a minimalist so living full-time in a van like yours wouldn't bother me. Although you touched on the necessity of planning ahead for overnight stops, could you actually show us in detail what that process looks like? Another help would be a list concerning the electrical systems. I know costs can vary but even a basic list of helpful items would be great. When i hear wattage, inverters, storage capacity, etc, it gets confusing. Love your van and you for your charm and realness.
My tolerance for driving long distances has decreased with age! Instead of the 10- and 12-hour drives of my youth, 6 hours exhausts me now. But I have to make allowances for my kids (for just a bit yet!) and dog, and so commit to stopping at least every 2 hours. Since I’ve been living in a tiny apartment, I’ve been able to start making some adjustments already; once we hit the road, I a lot of my time and energy will be going into continuing to train my puppy into the service dog I need, and exploring with her as much as I can. I also have a wealth of activities for foul weather and downtime: drawing and painting, sewing, embroidery, wood carving, books… warm breezes and dry roads on your travels!
Wood is my answer 🪵🪓🔥 I have a little portable wood stove and finding, gathering, cutting, chopping, and hauling wood is pretty great exercise. Horse pine pellets are the BEST. Both me and my cat use them as “litter.” I always have a sewing project/repair that needs my attention during rainy or down days🧵🪡 So practical and easy to implement, all the tips/tricks you share. Well done👍🏼 🌿
P.S. I have the same little Jackery! It’s tiny but works for my needs. Have 60w portable solar panel or recharge while driving. Got it for $99. during an Amazon “Lightning Deal” almost two years ago.
During down time I work on my meditation, write an actual letter to someone, self care spoiling, take time to process.......etc. Oh yes, the crafts. I love my crafts. Crocheting and my new craft will be making chimes/wind chimes. Gotta get on it cause all the materials I've been collecting to start it is taking up space.😯
So many people joined the new fad of living out a van. Traveling 24/7 is exhausting and hard on the body and mind. So many are quitting the van life bc they saw everyone on social media acting like it's amazing. It's truly hard. Not easy. A lot of people have gotten depressed bc they are so shut off from civilization like many have said in a video. So some realized that doing traveling part time and have AA home base. I give props of anyone can afford this bc it's truly expensive and mentally do this. It's hard. So please to all who live in a vehicle be safe and stay healthy ❤❤
One of the helpful pieces of advice I found on the net was from a senior couple. If you are older, as we are, anticipate getting settled where you are going to spend the night by either 3:30 p.m. or 330 kilometres. Then you have time to relax and explore the place a bit before you settle down. And you aren't over tired.
@@LadyBugout It worked for us beautifully this last fall when we travelled. So much nicer than the old days. We would drive around exhausted in the dark looking for a place to stay and not hitting the pillow til 11 p.m. without any real sense of where we were until the morning.
You are correct about moving. Prolonged sitting increases your chance of getting a blood clot. Just like a long flight. So it’s good that you take driving breaks to get your circulation going. I was viewing another TH-cam channel where the TH-camr was interviewing the wife whose husband had died from a blood clot because he was driving/ sitting down for extended period of time.
Love this! Can so relate to all of these points! I travelled all around America towing a camper and now am doing the same thing in Australia and can attest to the difference in driver etiquette in the states! Yes American drivers are so much more polite, will happily let you into an adjacent lane when you indicate, whereas here in Australia they'll deliberately speed up to block you from changing lanes! The other thing I miss about my American road trips is the abundance of fantastic rest areas (the ones here are very few and far between and are usually just smelly long drops, yuck!) I use compostable dog poop bags in my tiny garbage bin, to pick up after my dog and that can also fit as a liner in my potty for those number 2 moments when I can't find a rest area as you can just dig a hole and bury it if need be. I never get bored in my nomad life as I play my saxophone but the exhaustion factor of long drives and always having to plan ahead distances, maps, where to camp, costs, laundry, sourcing good organic food supplies etc takes up a lot of my energy! 🤪
I drove from Oregon to Maine and back this past fall. Alone. I was crippled from all the driving…9 hours a day. I learned a very valuable lesson … slow down, stop often, and get out ! Great , practical videos for,living in a van . Thanks !!
Dee as usual great tips. I love traveling in my van but I’m also really happy when I’m at home in my sticks and bricks with my hubby and animals. I’m retired and he’s still working so he’s not able to travel with me. When I do travel I have my two senior tiny dogs that need medication twice a day. I love the company and my husband isn’t able to handle the medication schedule while he’s working. As always happy and safe travels. ♥️🐞
I wouldn’t do full time. Anyone who can, I applaud you. I like running water, bathrooms, heat, etc. My husband and I will do a bit of traveling in a van with two dogs but will stay at camp grounds. No boondocking. We are retired. I like my house. Lots of great info on this channel. Thank you.
Well, there's a trade-off for freedom. Vanlife is a rolling rent-free sustainable home that gives you a lot of freedom. But you have to take care of your needs on a regular basis such as energy 'fuels', all batteries/solar, restock food/supplies, showers/dry baths, trash/waste disposal, Wi-Fi needs, cooking/cleaning, maintain a comfortable temperature, car maintenance, etc. And Vanlifers always have to know where their heading-to, in search of that next safe night's sleep. In an Apartment most all your needs are met, but you pay rent giving up some freedom, but there are the weekends !! Also, you can get your food/supplies delivered and you can hire a cleaning service freeing up more time. That's my take, take care and travel on !!
I lived in my van for over two years and never took a dump in there. There are gas stations, rest areas, wilderness, car washes, stores, gyms, etc. just about anywhere you go.
It is a good thing to have so many Van dwellers comfortable talking about waste. For me, after years of having dogs and having to carry their waste with me so many times until I could dispose of it, having the waste be my own is not a problem, however, as of yet, I have not had to carry it longer than to a dumpster near by. People throw away diapers for years, but then get grossed out to think of someone putting a bag of waste in a dumpster, no difference. I love your comment about budgeting. I have a Budgeting Channel, and it is all about planning for your Budget so that you are free to spend. There is great freedom when you are aware and spend intentionally.
Yep, it is interesting how squeamish some people get about it😜 I’ll have to check out your channel. That is such an important skill/habit to have. And so helpful to teach others!!!
When possible dispose of packaging materials at the store. An example is have a container for cereal, rice, noodles, toilet paper, (anything that comes in a box or plastic bag that you will eventually need to throw away). Everything you can get rid of when buying, will be less that you need to store once using. Rectangular containers take up less space than round ones.
I've done multiple loops around the interior parameter of many Walmarts (no cart) and they really don't pay any attention to you! It's especially nice of you are an early morning person!
WOW Dee this was the most informative Utube ever about the waste situation. Thank you for sharing this. Garbage is continuous, it just keeps coming, I just can't believe how much I generate daily!
I appreciate the 'dirty' truth! 😄 I think a video comparing costs state to state, perhaps even within a state (because that can vary wildly) would be very interesting. Especially in this current economic and supply issues climate. Thanks!
Such a beautiful helpful video! As a traveler too I really appreciate you and the ease that you share what works for you and your living space…. You are beautiful inside and out! Thanks again 😊
For refreshing while on the go I use Noxema almost on my legs, arms , face especially so as it acts as a refreshure when stopped . It's very comforting especially when it's easy enough to bring in a damp paper towel into your bathroom stall to wipe your arms and legs down ..Thanks .
@@LadyBugoutHere in the UK and northern Europe driving standards are - 'more or less' ok - Scandinavia drives very sensibly....but parts of southern Europe not only drive often too fast but rudely, never giving way and with a 'me, me, me' attitude. A world away from the relaxed, polite manner of the US! Of course these are huge generalisations and there's good and bad driving everywhere. Enjoy your travels!
I have a storage unit at a place that gives me 24/7 access to my belongings. It also shares a parking lot with a planet fitness that I will use for showers. The storage unit provides me with a safe place to store everything so I don’t need to worry about someone breaking into my van and stealing all my valuables. The storage place also has an electrical outlet I can utilize, and a covered drive up area that I can park under at night if it’s storming.
Yes I know what you mean by hard on your body with continuous driving not that we have vast distances here but you can drive for up to 9 hours straight depending on the destination. I get really sore legs and have to regularly get out and walk around. But if you have time limits gosh! youve just got to jump back in the van and go!!
I'm thinking about getting those resistance bands to keep my muscles toned. Since I can stand in my van I will do running in place when I can't get outside due to weather. I will park the van far away when I'm in a store parking lot so I can get more steps in. I do genealogy and my family tree, I love research. I also read about herbal remedies and ways to help longevity and health. The library is one of my best friends. Great topics today, thanks for sharing.
I got a small RV 24 feet and it’s absolutely just right for me. I love some of the lower price RV Parks along the roads. Sometimes just $20. Or $25 a night and one can plug in have electric and water and get some rest with a fan running and often a market is nearby for restocking. Often Laundry facilities are there or in town nearby.
I carry a glass jar for just my milk, before leaving the grocery store parking lot I will put my milk in the glass jar and throw the container away, any meats I divide up into aluminum foil or plastic wrap and put it in my freezer throwing the meat wrappings away. I do this with everything I possibly can. When I'm boondocking for a minimum of two weeks, I dig a two foot, and put my food scraps in that. Like banana peels orange peels. I smashed cans and anything else is flat as possible.
I transition from part time to full time in a couple weeks. Retired last week. 🥳 Excited to start a new life. 2 year plan to explore the national park system. I'm most worried about being lonely 🙁 We shall see 😉
Awesome! I find I can be lonely in a room full of people or feel totally in community all by myself. Learning to love yourself is key I think. Safe travels!!!
I retired later than most. Within 8 months decided to do a similar National Park trip while SUV camping. Nearly six months in can say it has never been lonely. Traveling with a medium size super social dog helps draw conversations. Focus the trip not just getting to National Parks but things along the route that arouse your interest - Indian history, geology, maybe religious destinations or art/hand crafts. Meeting others with the same passions and letting them share their hobby will ignites you mentally. Let heighten activity and learning fill up the time and enjoy each day to the fullest. You may not be lonely at all!
I’m going to bring up a squeeze bottle as a mini shower or bidet . To feel cleaned up . And those body wipes . Garbage is a big deal. Hard to believe we have that much even living mini ! Stay Fresh !😊
When driving for a living, I would always pick the parking spot that was furthest away from the entrance of whatever place I had to go to. First, it's the safest for a large vehicle, and second, I walk further.
In the uk... Tesco car parks have a 3hr max 6am to 8 1.5 hr max 8pm to midnight And between midnight and 6am its 10 MINUTES. You get £100 fine for overstay
Another great video covering some great topics. Thanks, Dee!! And yes to an a exercises/stretching video! If I can show my absolutely top-shelf-dorky beanie wearing in my video, you can show us some stretches. 🤣
Hi Dee! Happy new year. I could relate to each topic you've talked about. I must clean up constantly, so then it doesn't feel like a task. Its a habit. Stay warm my friend.
Been traveling six months and nearly daily made coffee. Now heading back decided "I'll just buy my coffee". After 10 days realized my coffee is better - so back to the old routine. Guess lesson learned is don't be afraid to try something different, as you may appreciate better what you got.
Also love your honesty and videos!!!! Your channel is going to speed off soon.AGgreens needs to get you to be a sponsor and Jackery also does. I would believe you!
Dear Dee u gave a lot of great ideas and tips and things the average person may not think of…as always glad you shared and be safe and careful ..have great weekend!
Dee I fold a croched throw blanket over my drivers seat. It is very puffy and when folded doubly so. I use anytime I am going on a long drive. I have degenerating sacroilac and driving a long time really tears me up. This seems to help a lot. And I too get out at safe places and walk around the car or whatever to stretch my body. God Bless.
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Some of you have been asking about the bin I use for trash. I've added it to the list. But here is the link: amzn.to/3Sxhfse
Bring small trailer for sleeping 😴
Hi LB, how do you handle vehicle insurance?? I’m calling companies trying to find out how to insure my pickup with a camper top. So far they’re all adamant: no insurance if you’re living in it. They’ll insure an RV with no address, but not a passenger vehicle. 😟 I know there are options - use UPS as an address, borrow a friend’s, but it’s actually fraud and I don’t want to break the law or have a serious accident and be denied. Being hit by an uninsured driver is a concern too. I’ve been hit twice in the past year!
I’d think this would be a popular video topic, but I seriously can’t find anyone talking about how to do this!
I have a good job, want to stay in my city. But the rent… I have 2 roommates and it’s still tough. Rent is my biggest expense - would be nice to give that up.
I’d appreciate any insurance advice you could offer. 😊
@@Teal_Seal try oregon state usa .Washington state USA. For residency
@@hildebertocarreiro9232 Problem is I intend to keep my job in Florida and it’s not remote… but thanks!
The bins are great! I ordered two and love them! Perfect for my camper
As a trucker, the best advice i can offer for anyone considering vanlife is to have a long sit down talk with a trucker. We live on the road professionally. We know how to drive long distances, the wear the life takes on you. And what you can expect. Where and how to find bathrooms and showers, food, etc. And warn about the dangerous and sketchy things you WILL see and experience.
That is indeed great advice!!! My uncle was a trucker. He is a great resource. I also feel so safe at most truck stops. I find the best gadgets and gear by seeing what through hikers and truckers do!!!! You rock 💃🏻🚗 🥰
AS A? why do all you Americans start you comment with "as a" does that make you feel important?
@T.J-and-Soul it provides context and shows that my statements are coming from a place of actual knowledge, not just talking about something i know nothing about. Quite the innocuous phrasing to get upset about in my opinion. How would you of phrased it?
@@T.J-and-Soulwow, you are easily bothered.
@@amys5715you are now trolling. I’m sure you have something a lot more positive to be doing
One thing I noticed as a tour bus driver, MY FEET HURT! I've waitresses, bartender and danced a million miles in spike high heels, but driving is hard. I found that diabetic socks help tremendously. .ove your videos and advice.
I know what you mean. I wear compression socks as well and get out to walk as often as possible at rest areas!
I’m glad some Van lifers are finally getting real, I’ve lived in a 4 wheel drive sprinter van since 2020 and have no regrets. It’s real life with a minimalist lifestyle and not for everyone, some vlogs make it look so awesome without the daily life issues which still exist. Her video is legitimately helpful to those considering this lifestyle. What I like about van life is I never forget anything because my home is always with me. My downtime is reading and playing guitar.
That is awesome! Glad you enjoyed it. And your point of always having all you need right there is so true!!!
Agree
I am currently in Europe and experienced a kind of travel exhaustion last year. slow down if you can. I drive max 300 km a day, on small roads 200, stop every hour and stretch a bit and if the place i reach is nice i stay for at least a day. slowing down really has its benefits.
I agree! It’s way better that way ☺️
Don’t you think a lot is a mind game, we must be content with what we have.imagine being homeless, how fortunate we are having our little home on wheels. Thx for your info, those things are very real❤️
Absolutely!🐞💃🏻🚗
“Little home on wheels.” What a great name for a TH-cam channel! (My apologies if someone has already done that!). I love the sentiment, though. One’s mindset is everything.
chuckles. all that should be a daily thing for more people. It's coming that we all going to loose most of those modern conveniences when the Grid goes down. water goes down. internet and phones will go down. at least van life has choices that are based on one's ability to build / DIY your own system, save money, and thus know how to repair it when something fails. all necessary things.
Agreed!👍🏼
I have lived this life for years, you are spot on. All doable, helps when you start out to travel with a group to gain confidence.
Yes. It helps a lot☺️
Great video! One more thing, make sure you are comfortable with your own company. You may or may not find a “tribe”. And probably not immediately. But alone time is something to cherish! I just love your videos!
Very true! That is probably one of the most important things. Thanks for mentioning it!
You WILL find your tribe! I also am planning this out to begin next winter/January. I’m taking my pets and we’re going west. First to possibly Quartzite, AZ and then up the coast through Cali to Oregon. I think I’d like to stay in OR. I’m in dreary 8 ft of snow Cleveland. I can’t take it anymore. Not just the weather because I love Canada, just feels like there’a lot of economic desperation here & people seem wound up real tight. The east coast is like that, though. The west coast people are so different - so much more relaxed, not stressing over every single thing. There’s ahuge difference. Whem younger I thought I could never leave this area for good but I feel differently now. Where I choose to live has a huge impact on my quality of life. Take care and you’re going to have great time. There will be some days harder than others but I saw in another comment section advice to “not treat this like a long vacation as it’s NOT a vacation it’s a lifestyle now.” 🇺🇸
Getting out of the van and walking/stretching saves me from back spasms. Crocheting keeps me engaged during downtime. Great video, Dee! ❤
I used to know how to crochet… you’ll have to remind me how to do it again when we meet up😜
@@LadyBugout absolutely 😊
I’m doing that so much more now. My body hurts a lot 😭
I love your pacing in your videos! No distractions can happen when I am watching your videos. Your whole vibe is so pleasant!
Yay! Thank you! That’s valuable feedback. 🤗
Im sitting here watching this post now. I want you to know that you are the reason that I am in the middle of converting my van. I just happened on your videos but you are my go to channel to learn what I need to learn to get my van ready and get myself ready to make this next chapter in my life.
For the past 15 to 20 years I have slowly changed into a hermit. And this is not my normal personality but I have withdrawn from the public and from everything that I used to enjoy doing and so I have taken up this idea of going out on the road with my van to learn how to redo those things that I used to enjoy doing enjoying life so I look forward to this and you have taught me so much about the van life and what I need to do to prepare for it and I just want to thank you and keep doing what you're doing because it does matter it does matter to each and everyone of us.
By the way... you and my sister-in-law are just exact twins.
.
Wow, thank you for sharing this, Julia! It means so much. I relate to what you say about having withdrawn from so much of life. I think that was also a part of what compelled me as well. Hope to see you (and my twin) out and about some day😁
Oh yes please to an in-van exercise video! Bet that would be so helpful to us all. Working out in a small space is hugely challenging! Go on Dee, be brave! 🤣👍🏻💙 best wishes from England 🇬🇧
Lol…one of these days 😜💪🏼💃🏻
Once again, a timely video for me… 3rd week into van life these are all the things I’m experiencing and working out the bugs. Thank you for sharing because it is truly helping me. Altho I’ve been planning this and following all advice for a couple of years, it’s all different once you’re fully living in a vehicle day to day!❤ whew, am I ever learning😅
Good luck and be safe 💚
You got this. We all gotta start somewhere 💪🏼💃🏻🙌🏼
@@debbiblakeslee thank you!💙
@@LadyBugout thank you , Dee!
Blessed Be, lass! You got this!
👋👩🐞 great video ! ❤ that your keeping it real ! Also planning ahead ! Never know when you'll need tires or repairs exc.. as you said ! ❤ IT🤗👍 TY for sharing! Be safe/ Be Happy & I'll see you on the next video!🙂
Yo are very kind, Debbie, to be watching all my videos😝🤭😊
I have a similar sized van and I lived in it for about a month every last 5 summers. Never had an issue. Experimented with how to manage hygien and toilet etc and now have a simple system that works perfectly. Thinking of going full time soon. It's the psycological part that can be an issue. Not the practical things like most people think.
I think you are absolutely right! 💃🏻
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and ideas, concerns and solutions! I am not van living currently, but you always seem to answer my questions about it with your videos. I did think that I can actually apply a lot of what you suggest in everyday life. Planning , budgeting, having gratitude, understanding the value of alone time, having special hobbies and interests, all these things you mentioned and I feel that they are important skills to have to living one's best life everyday. Thanks Dee, have a great week and I really enjoy your videos! 😀🥰👋👍
I’m so glad the tips are applicable to everyday life anywhere! I didn’t think of it that way, but it makes me feel good that it transfers beyond Van life!!!
I do your grocery store walk every week. And before c/o I have a started bucks coffee and relax. And I live in a house. Also older.
That’s awesome!!! It’s nice to get out and stretch the legs 💃🏻🐞🙌🏼
Experience is a great teacher
Yes it is!!!
Your description of U.S. motorists being "rule followers" is so kind!
And thanks for opening up a consideration of our perspective and adaptation to such new conditions. Seems to me that the less I really know myself the bigger the shock I'm in for. For instance, if I have an expectation that overcoming the physical and emotional challenges will make me a stronger, better person -- well, that may not work out so well.
If instead, I can view each new challenge as a chance to evaluate my response impartially, with fresh eyes, it may lead to a decluttering not only of the space around me, but of the landscape inside. And so that this doesn't become a tedious chore, it's well to remember that this situation is one that I have, or could have, voluntarily chosen. And always, as part of your self care activity, don't forget to include regular human contacts!
Thanks for sharing Robert! Very true☺️
Yes wr have to be rule followers on the road as there are so many of us. Anytime of the night or day you can expect loaded freeways & roads. If you don’t follow the rules you can expect to die. That’s the motivation. You are trusting a lot of other people with your very life. Americans know what they’re doing behind the wheel. I have driven in many countries. America is where you’re the safest on the road. And it’s where you’re going to moving the fastest. The faster you go the more danger, Everybody just wants to get home to their families. Or their dogs! 🇺🇸
I've always enjoyed driving, including long distances alone. A memorable time was when my daughters became good drivers themselves, to the point where I'd sleep on a trip with either of them driving. I know what I good feeling I get when someone regularly dozes off with no worries while I'm driving, because it does require trust and respect.
It's surprising how much more stuff you notice from the passenger seat, when not having to pay attention to driving.
Well said! I know that exact feeling🤗
EXCELLENT advice. Been traveling part-time in a class B for 2 years with my partner and you’ve beautifully covered every last thing ive slowly learned thru trial and error. Bravo! A masterpiece!🙌🏻
I appreciate that!🥰
Yes agree with what you say.. so much truth reassurance inspiration so so REAL🙏🏼
I am so glad you found it reassuring. Thanks for the encouragement 😊
Thank you so much LBO, I really enjoy your thoughtful, intelligent and organized approach to van living. I think your van is the most clean and comfortable looking I've seen. You also have a beautiful, fresh look and are a pleasure to watch and listen to.
Thank you for the encouraging words. I appreciate it😊
Whenever I decide on taking a long trip, I try and figure out where I'll be by late afternoon or early evening. I take full advantage of highway rest stops as it allows me to rest up, use the bathroom and not worry about breakdowns far away from a town. I find it best to shop daily or whenever I have to get something that doesn't keep for very long. If roadside markets, farm produce or eggs and bakery items are available, I take advantage as fresh is better than whatever sits on a shelf or in a cooler for unknown periods of time. Clothes, try shopping at an Amish auction, a store where clothes are made for everyday wear as the quality is more on par with the price you pay. There's something about Amish and people who work close to the ground and family that makes me feel good, happier and sometimes in awe of how great it is to meet them and be around them even for a few hours.
Great tips! Thank you☺️
One of the best vids ever! Seems no down time with all those chores!
Thank you🥰
Great video, very helpful 😊
Glad it was helpful, Michelle! Thank you for the feedback 😊
I totally agree-taking walks and stretching whenever you can is extremely important for keeping yourself healthy. The Info. on how to work with the inconveniences throughout traveling, is greatly appreciated. Thanks for sharing!!🤗🚙🏞🏡
Thank you Maxine!
Something I do when shopping for food for my van is that while I am still at the store I try to go ahead and place the items into the storage I will be using so that I can leave any unneeded trash right there in the store. For example, if I want eggs, I crack them into a jar and then leave the container and shells either in the recycle or trash. I hear you about the stiffness! I LOVE the rooftop deck for this reason. Nothing is better at getting my shoulders, back, and neck back into the correct position than that roof! We can build up a lot of tenseness when driving. Remember to take deep breaths throughout the drive too! Sometimes I find myself taking shallow breaths or even holding my breath when in traffic. As always, LOVE your content and am very thankful for everything. I am usually able to only be out a couple of weeks at a time, so I still have much to learn about the long-haul. I say I am still practicing!
Those are great practices! Thank you for sharing☺️
I’ve been traveling in my van for two years now. And can relate to many of the things you mentioned.
The thing I miss the most is having daily access to a shower. I manage well but when I get the opportunity to shower 🚿 I do !
Thanks for sharing your observations & experiences.
Hope to see ya down the road someday 🙏🏽
Yes! Showers are quite the luxury 🙌🏼
Showers are sooooo appreciated aren't they???!!!
When I start my journey soon, since I’m a bath person, I’d splurge on a hotel/Airbnb just for a nice long soak once in awhile 😁
I found while traveling I use Noxema skin cream . It can be put on then and with damp or moistened paper towels rinsed off , leaving you well refreshed .Thanks .
I think I'd have to have a 'rig-up' shower. G Ire
I spent a month traveling in my FJ Cruiser as a test. I loved it and was fine with the challenges you describe. My future plan is a year-long trip around the USA. One month wasn’t nearly long enough.
That’s awesome!!!
Thanks for another great video Dee. Your genuine nature and excellent communication skills serve you and all of us well. I appreciate you more than can be expressed. God bless you and your journey Dee.
I really appreciate you taking time to be encouraging, Brian. Thank you😊
Ditto from me....
Dee, I have been watching videos on minimalism and trying to simplify my life. What you share in all of your videos really helps me to desire putting into practice. When we declutter and have a routine, our stress lessons and we are able to relax. I also appreciate that you practice as close to a zero waste lifestyle as you can!! Great job again! Safe travels and enjoy the journey!
You are so welcome! I’m glad the tips are useful. We are all a work in progress 😛
Always such thoughtful tips. Being mindful in all areas of your life. 💜💜
☺️
Very Informative and very well presented!!!
Love your van...thank soooooooo much for sharing!!! Happy and safe travels!!!🤗
Thank you! Glad it was helpful☺️
Hey Ms. Dee ! Planning ahead has it's rewards, for sure. Playing by ear also has it's place. I used to travel by motorcycle a lot, and have slept on many a picnic table. I understand that it's not for everyone. But there is a kind of freedom about it.
Yep. For me, it’s the same idea as knowing the parameters of the swimming pond… then there’s freedom and flexibility within what plans you may have!
Good tips…. Can apply in general….your very practical 😊. Thx ❤
Glad it was helpful! 💃🏻🙌🏼💪🏼
Thanks for the great advice. I was a city bus driver for 29 years I know how important it is to get out of the seat and stretch
I can only imagine. Yikes 😬
You always provide such helpful information! What is helpful to me, is that I have done this before for over two and a half years. Now that I'm going back to wheels it will not be very difficult. Also, I am primarily stationary, which also helps with costs and stress. Thank you! 💕
I’m so glad it’s helpful. That’s awesome. Maybe I’ll see you around💃🏻
I’m a truck driver. We’re told to do some exercises when we stop. Gotta move girl! Also get some exercise bands.
Perfect!
WTG Dee and as always, you nailed it! Perhaps #6 for many of us is maintenance/repair of our vehicle and gear. Fortunately for a minimalist like you, you don't have as much "stuff" to cause troubles but then there's the occasional gotchas when dealing with electronics, computer devices, internet, etc - especially for us TH-camrs. Yet in the long run it's worth way more than the price of admission! Happy trails, Michael and Grace
Yes! That’s a very good point. I do have as part of my budget, a regular maintenance and emergency fund! So far that has served me well. We’ll see as Lady Bugout gets older still 😜
Love campsite Sudoku! I also have scratch-off hangman puzzle books that I enjoy. And--I love playing old-fashioned solitaire with real cards. I've gotten a lot of smiles from passing campers while playing solitaire on my picnic table (on a non-windy day). People love to call out and ask who's winning!
That’s funny! Yes, I have several decks of cards💃🏻
That was perfect Ms. Lady bug. I sold my home, then bought my van, and between the coldest of days here on New England I have worked trying to set up my living space. Most important of all, for me is the loneliness, the stresses of trying to live stealthy
It would be difficult to have to be stealthy. I am usually not in places that it matters. I’m sure you’ll figure out what works as you go along💪🏼
@Lady Bugout Thank you for the encouragement...maybe it just takes some time to get use to this way of life. I almost feel hethanistic, yet liberated and free all at the same time, which may be what's pulling me in so many directions. Thank you for paving the way in ur own small way.
Wonderful video and information. I traveled solo with my small dog 10-15 years ago. I loved the life but i was in a 26' motorhome with all the conveniences. It was very expensive. I am a minimalist so living full-time in a van like yours wouldn't bother me. Although you touched on the necessity of planning ahead for overnight stops, could you actually show us in detail what that process looks like? Another help would be a list concerning the electrical systems. I know costs can vary but even a basic list of helpful items would be great. When i hear wattage, inverters, storage capacity, etc, it gets confusing.
Love your van and you for your charm and realness.
I will try to cover that in a future video. Thanks, Joan!
My tolerance for driving long distances has decreased with age! Instead of the 10- and 12-hour drives of my youth, 6 hours exhausts me now. But I have to make allowances for my kids (for just a bit yet!) and dog, and so commit to stopping at least every 2 hours. Since I’ve been living in a tiny apartment, I’ve been able to start making some adjustments already; once we hit the road, I a lot of my time and energy will be going into continuing to train my puppy into the service dog I need, and exploring with her as much as I can. I also have a wealth of activities for foul weather and downtime: drawing and painting, sewing, embroidery, wood carving, books… warm breezes and dry roads on your travels!
I hear ya!!! It sounds like you are planning well and figuring it out💃🏻
Wood is my answer
🪵🪓🔥
I have a little portable wood stove and finding, gathering, cutting, chopping, and hauling wood is pretty great exercise.
Horse pine pellets are the BEST. Both me and my cat use them as “litter.” I always have a sewing project/repair that needs my attention during rainy or down days🧵🪡
So practical and easy to implement, all the tips/tricks you share. Well done👍🏼 🌿
P.S. I have the same little Jackery! It’s tiny but works for my needs. Have 60w portable solar panel or recharge while driving. Got it for $99. during an Amazon “Lightning Deal” almost two years ago.
That’s awesome. I love those little portable stoves. Oh yes, my tiny Jackery is really all I need.
@@LadyBugout Same. 🌿🐞
During down time I work on my meditation, write an actual letter to someone, self care spoiling, take time to process.......etc.
Oh yes, the crafts. I love my crafts. Crocheting and my new craft will be making chimes/wind chimes. Gotta get on it cause all the materials I've been collecting to start it is taking up space.😯
Sounds like a great plan!
So many people joined the new fad of living out a van. Traveling 24/7 is exhausting and hard on the body and mind. So many are quitting the van life bc they saw everyone on social media acting like it's amazing. It's truly hard. Not easy. A lot of people have gotten depressed bc they are so shut off from civilization like many have said in a video. So some realized that doing traveling part time and have AA home base. I give props of anyone can afford this bc it's truly expensive and mentally do this. It's hard. So please to all who live in a vehicle be safe and stay healthy ❤❤
Well put! Sounds like you have experience with it too☺️
One of the helpful pieces of advice I found on the net was from a senior couple. If you are older, as we are, anticipate getting settled where you are going to spend the night by either 3:30 p.m. or 330 kilometres. Then you have time to relax and explore the place a bit before you settle down. And you aren't over tired.
Thanks for sharing! Yes, that is great advice😊
@@LadyBugout It worked for us beautifully this last fall when we travelled. So much nicer than the old days. We would drive around exhausted in the dark looking for a place to stay and not hitting the pillow til 11 p.m. without any real sense of where we were until the morning.
You are correct about moving. Prolonged sitting increases your chance of getting a blood clot. Just like a long flight. So it’s good that you take driving breaks to get your circulation going. I was viewing another TH-cam channel where the TH-camr was interviewing the wife whose husband had died from a blood clot because he was driving/ sitting down for extended period of time.
Oh dear… that sounds terrible. Yes, moving is good!
Love this! Can so relate to all of these points! I travelled all around America towing a camper and now am doing the same thing in Australia and can attest to the difference in driver etiquette in the states! Yes American drivers are so much more polite, will happily let you into an adjacent lane when you indicate, whereas here in Australia they'll deliberately speed up to block you from changing lanes! The other thing I miss about my American road trips is the abundance of fantastic rest areas (the ones here are very few and far between and are usually just smelly long drops, yuck!)
I use compostable dog poop bags in my tiny garbage bin, to pick up after my dog and that can also fit as a liner in my potty for those number 2 moments when I can't find a rest area as you can just dig a hole and bury it if need be.
I never get bored in my nomad life as I play my saxophone but the exhaustion factor of long drives and always having to plan ahead distances, maps, where to camp, costs, laundry, sourcing good organic food supplies etc takes up a lot of my energy! 🤪
Sounds like you’ve had some good adventures. Oh yes, sometimes it’s preferable not to use public toilets 😂
I drove from Oregon to Maine and back this past fall. Alone. I was crippled from all the driving…9 hours a day. I learned a very valuable lesson … slow down, stop often, and get out ! Great , practical videos for,living in a van . Thanks !!
Great advice!!!
My dream trip! I’m also in Oregon.
What a very intelligent father!!!!!! Best analogy I’ve ever heard on that.
He taught me a lot on finances and he was a mechanical engineer- so I think I get my incentive streak from him too😛
Dee as usual great tips. I love traveling in my van but I’m also really happy when I’m at home in my sticks and bricks with my hubby and animals. I’m retired and he’s still working so he’s not able to travel with me. When I do travel I have my two senior tiny dogs that need medication twice a day. I love the company and my husband isn’t able to handle the medication schedule while he’s working. As always happy and safe travels. ♥️🐞
Yes, that’s actually a very important point. You need to take care of everyone’s needs and know your limitations. Good to see your balance☺️
I wouldn’t do full time. Anyone who can, I applaud you. I like running water, bathrooms, heat, etc. My husband and I will do a bit of traveling in a van with two dogs but will stay at camp grounds. No boondocking. We are retired. I like my house. Lots of great info on this channel. Thank you.
Sounds good! It’s not for everyone☺️
You have the prettiest brown hair!
Thank you!
Well, there's a trade-off for freedom. Vanlife is a rolling rent-free sustainable home that gives you a lot of freedom. But you have to take care of your needs on a regular basis such as energy 'fuels', all batteries/solar, restock food/supplies, showers/dry baths, trash/waste disposal, Wi-Fi needs, cooking/cleaning, maintain a comfortable temperature, car maintenance, etc. And Vanlifers always have to know where their heading-to, in search of that next safe night's sleep. In an Apartment most all your needs are met, but you pay rent giving up some freedom, but there are the weekends !! Also, you can get your food/supplies delivered and you can hire a cleaning service freeing up more time. That's my take, take care and travel on !!
Cool!!!💪🏼💃🏻👍🏼
I lived in my van for over two years and never took a dump in there. There are gas stations, rest areas, wilderness, car washes, stores, gyms, etc. just about anywhere you go.
Good for you!!!! It is indeed possible🤗
I think you are one lovely lady in a cute little van. Thank you for keeping it real.
I appreciate that💃🏻🐞🚗
It is a good thing to have so many Van dwellers comfortable talking about waste. For me, after years of having dogs and having to carry their waste with me so many times until I could dispose of it, having the waste be my own is not a problem, however, as of yet, I have not had to carry it longer than to a dumpster near by. People throw away diapers for years, but then get grossed out to think of someone putting a bag of waste in a dumpster, no difference. I love your comment about budgeting. I have a Budgeting Channel, and it is all about planning for your Budget so that you are free to spend. There is great freedom when you are aware and spend intentionally.
Yep, it is interesting how squeamish some people get about it😜 I’ll have to check out your channel. That is such an important skill/habit to have. And so helpful to teach others!!!
I just hopped over to your channel. You make it look so fun. Love it!!!
Your precise information on van life or rv living is very helpful. Thank you, be safe and take care of yourself, Maranatha.
Thanks, you too!😊
When possible dispose of packaging materials at the store. An example is have a container for cereal, rice, noodles, toilet paper, (anything that comes in a box or plastic bag that you will eventually need to throw away).
Everything you can get rid of when buying, will be less that you need to store once using. Rectangular containers take up less space than round ones.
Great suggestions!!!💃🏻💪🏼🙌🏼
I've done multiple loops around the interior parameter of many Walmarts (no cart) and they really don't pay any attention to you! It's especially nice of you are an early morning person!
Lol… I guess there are many of us doing that very thing 💃🏻
Thank you for the storage of human waste tips! This whole episode was great, and I saved it in my Mobile Living Tips list! Thanks again!
Glad it was helpful! Thank you 😊
Great points and tips. You had me at Sudoku. The cost state to state is kinda crazy if you research it. Thanks for sharing
Hey woman!!! I love sudoku. They should make some group version of that😜
WOW Dee this was the most informative Utube ever about the waste situation. Thank you for sharing this. Garbage is continuous, it just keeps coming, I just can't believe how much I generate daily!
Glad it was helpful! Yes, it makes you get really mindful of packaging and what you bring in 😝
I appreciate the 'dirty' truth! 😄
I think a video comparing costs state to state, perhaps even within a state (because that can vary wildly) would be very interesting. Especially in this current economic and supply issues climate. Thanks!
Great idea!
So important to have helpful tips & knowledgeable from someone living the lifestyle 🌟👍🌟
Glad you think so! Thank you☺️
This is an outstanding contribution, Dee.
I can vouch for every single one of your points.
Well done.
j
Thank you 😊
Thanks Dee. Great ideas and insights into your way of living this way. Great job!
You are so welcome!
Such a beautiful helpful video! As a traveler too I really appreciate you and the ease that you share what works for you and your living space…. You are beautiful inside and out! Thanks again 😊
Thank you so much, Nancy! I appreciate that more than you know☺️
@@LadyBugout 😊😊😊
For refreshing while on the go I use Noxema almost on my legs, arms , face especially so as it acts as a refreshure when stopped .
It's very comforting especially when it's easy enough to bring in a damp paper towel into your bathroom stall to wipe your arms and legs down ..Thanks .
Thanks for the tip!
Yes - I found drivers in the US to be some of the most polite anywhere.......some S. Europeans could take some lessons!
Very true😝
@@LadyBugoutHere in the UK and northern Europe driving standards are - 'more or less' ok - Scandinavia drives very sensibly....but parts of southern Europe not only drive often too fast but rudely, never giving way and with a 'me, me, me' attitude. A world away from the relaxed, polite manner of the US! Of course these are huge generalisations and there's good and bad driving everywhere. Enjoy your travels!
One of your best! Your sense of design, and organization reminds me of my beloved late wife. Thank you.
Thank you! 😊
Thank you, Dee. Very helpful advice and invaluable for those new to van life.
Thank you, Tom. Glad it was helpful!
I have a storage unit at a place that gives me 24/7 access to my belongings. It also shares a parking lot with a planet fitness that I will use for showers. The storage unit provides me with a safe place to store everything so I don’t need to worry about someone breaking into my van and stealing all my valuables. The storage place also has an electrical outlet I can utilize, and a covered drive up area that I can park under at night if it’s storming.
That’s awesome!!!
Yes I know what you mean by hard on your body with continuous driving not that we have vast distances here but you can drive for up to 9 hours straight depending on the destination. I get really sore legs and have to regularly get out and walk around. But if you have time limits gosh! youve just got to jump back in the van and go!!
Yep. It gets harder the more you drive😛
Hi Dee. It's 4AM. I can't sleep. It was nice to watch your video. Thank you for sharing your experiences. 😍👏👏👏
Good morning! Glad you enjoyed it😊
I'm thinking about getting those resistance bands to keep my muscles toned. Since I can stand in my van I will do running in place when I can't get outside due to weather. I will park the van far away when I'm in a store parking lot so I can get more steps in. I do genealogy and my family tree, I love research. I also read about herbal remedies and ways to help longevity and health. The library is one of my best friends. Great topics today, thanks for sharing.
Sounds like you have some good strategies in place. Libraries are awesome-for both books and free Wi-Fi!!!
I got a small RV 24 feet and it’s absolutely just right for me. I love some of the lower price RV Parks along the roads. Sometimes just $20. Or $25 a night and one can plug in have electric and water and get some rest with a fan running and often a market is nearby for restocking. Often Laundry facilities are there or in town nearby.
That’s awesome!
I carry a glass jar for just my milk, before leaving the grocery store parking lot I will put my milk in the glass jar and throw the container away, any meats I divide up into aluminum foil or plastic wrap and put it in my freezer throwing the meat wrappings away. I do this with everything I possibly can. When I'm boondocking for a minimum of two weeks, I dig a two foot, and put my food scraps in that. Like banana peels orange peels. I smashed cans and anything else is flat as possible.
Interesting…good planning.
Thank you for your pointers and insight 💕
You are welcome!
That was again a very helpful video Dee, so thank you again and again 🙏🏼
You are so welcome Hetty!
I transition from part time to full time in a couple weeks.
Retired last week. 🥳
Excited to start a new life.
2 year plan to explore the national park system.
I'm most worried about being lonely 🙁
We shall see 😉
Awesome! I find I can be lonely in a room full of people or feel totally in community all by myself. Learning to love yourself is key I think. Safe travels!!!
I retired later than most. Within 8 months decided to do a similar National Park trip while SUV camping. Nearly six months in can say it has never been lonely. Traveling with a medium size super social dog helps draw conversations. Focus the trip not just getting to National Parks but things along the route that arouse your interest - Indian history, geology, maybe religious destinations or art/hand crafts. Meeting others with the same passions and letting them share their hobby will ignites you mentally. Let heighten activity and learning fill up the time and enjoy each day to the fullest. You may not be lonely at all!
I’m going to bring up a squeeze bottle as a mini shower or bidet . To feel cleaned up . And those body wipes . Garbage is a big deal. Hard to believe we have that much even living mini ! Stay Fresh !😊
Great tip!!!
When driving for a living, I would always pick the parking spot that was furthest away from the entrance of whatever place I had to go to. First, it's the safest for a large vehicle, and second, I walk further.
That’s smart!
I love to drive also. It clears my mind.
Yes!!!!
In the uk... Tesco car parks have a 3hr max 6am to 8
1.5 hr max 8pm to midnight
And between midnight and 6am its 10 MINUTES.
You get £100 fine for overstay
Dang… that is good to know!
Nice build out, and I like your philosophy. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you, Stew!☺️
Really informative. Thank you for this! I love your hair, by the way!
Thanks for watching! ☺️
Another great video covering some great topics. Thanks, Dee!!
And yes to an a exercises/stretching video! If I can show my absolutely top-shelf-dorky beanie wearing in my video, you can show us some stretches. 🤣
🤣😂🤣😂🤣
Hi Dee! Happy new year. I could relate to each topic you've talked about. I must clean up constantly, so then it doesn't feel like a task. Its a habit. Stay warm my friend.
Hello beautiful! Thanks for stopping by. Hope you are doing well these days. 🥰
Excellent advice and presentation! New subscriber as of today.
Thank you, Sam, and welcome!
Been traveling six months and nearly daily made coffee. Now heading back decided "I'll just buy my coffee". After 10 days realized my coffee is better - so back to the old routine. Guess lesson learned is don't be afraid to try something different, as you may appreciate better what you got.
Exactly!!!
You can always buy a small shovel and save your money. I'd only do that it the boondocks.
Yep! I have a shovel for such occasions!!!🤗
Also love your honesty and videos!!!! Your channel is going to speed off soon.AGgreens needs to get you to be a sponsor and Jackery also does. I would believe you!
Thank you! I appreciate the encouragement ☺️
Dear Dee u gave a lot of great ideas and tips and things the average person may not think of…as always glad you shared and be safe and careful ..have great weekend!
Thank you Vicki. I appreciate you☺️
you give me hope. thanks.
I'm so glad!😊
I would enjoy learning what stretches you do in your van would be nice. Thank you!
Coming soon…hopefully🤭
Dee I fold a croched throw blanket over my drivers seat. It is very puffy and when folded doubly so. I use anytime I am going on a long drive. I have degenerating sacroilac and driving a long time really tears me up. This seems to help a lot. And I too get out at safe places and walk around the car or whatever to stretch my body. God Bless.
Thanks for sharing. Good idea!