Check the bottoms parts of your car. Like the brakes, rotors, cv axle, struts, and suspensions etc. Because my car is also 32 years old and I took it to the mechanic and they said it was fine but I later learned that a lot of the bottoms parts needed to be replaced. Also since it's an older car, I would save up and prepare for the worst just in case it ever breaks down.
Yeah, I have a 1993 Nissan P/U and I’ve replaced the engine in 2019, and everything was great…..Until this year where I had to replace the front CV joints, ball joints, front & back shocks, and quite a few other parts under the vehicle.
Wow! Hi Alyssa, once you’ve had a chance to really drive the van, your perception may change. It is a totally different driving experience in larger vehicles. There is so much that you will be able to do in the van if you do a conversion. It will truly become a home on wheels. Great to see you doing well. 🤗
I can totally relate! Everyone assumed I wanted a Sprinter or ProMaster van, but I got the Nissan NV200 instead, similar to Transit Connect. I can still park in compact parking spaces! I don’t need to stand all the way either. If I’m in my van, I’m lounging or sleeping.
I think about this all the time! I love my sedan. I love being able to drive fast, whip is around corners and have great gas milage. Honestly I've been thinking of SUV life because that way I have a bit more space and the ability to have a roof tent if I didn't feel like building a bed platform inside all while still getting better gas milage than a van. If my sedan could hold a roof tent, I wouldn't get a van for the longest time hahaha. Love that you keep it 100!
I’ve watched most of your videos now preparing for my journey living in my car and traveling. I’ll be starting January 1st, 2022 and can’t wait to show my progress just like you. I’m preparing now and will keep you posted! Stay safe! :)
Great and honest review. Personally, I’m looking for a deal on a big van like yours, but haven’t been successful yet. I would prefer “van life” in a bigger vehicle, but I love that you’re honest about missing the smaller car. Sometimes, bigger isn’t better. I always look forward to your updates. Keep on keepin on Alyssa, and we’re here for you!
There needs to be a convention community where Van life and car life people meet up because I'm about to be in this situation and I'm absolutely terrified I have no clue what I'm doing and I could use some friends that are dealing with the same things 😭😭
Cant wait to buy my camper! Been dreaming of for years! Im much older than you. I see myself doing this toward end of my working life. Ive been at it for 40 years now.
My kiddo has a fiat. She loves it! I'm 5'9"...not so much. Glad you have a place again and that you have a little more space. Looking forward to seeing what you do with Stevie Ray Van.
I love that you're comparing the two! I was considering getting an Astrovan/Safari as well, at one point, but decided to just use what I had. I think my biggest issue with my tiny car is that.. well I think I've packed too much stuff! I need to get rid of some of it, and/or organize it better, and then it won't feel so cramped. I've always been an over-packer, so moving into a tiny car has been a little frustrating as far as organization etc. BUT I adore my car and I want to become more of a minimalist, so I'm committed to making this work! Thank you for taking us on your journey! Maybe one day I'll start making TH-cam videos about my experience as well o.0
@Anonymous Person Aww thanks for the preemptive support! I think I will once I settle into the experience a little bit more. It's a little intimidating to put myself out there like that 😳 😅
I am new to your channel and happy I stumbled upon you. I get what you mean about driving a larger vehicle. I just bought a 2008 Dodge Sprinter 170 inch wheel base, extended, high top. Apparently, it’s the biggest cargo van made. It’s got 14 feet of build space from the back of the front seats to the fear doors and is 24 feet long. The first time I got behind the wheel it felt like I was driving a gymnasium. After a couple of trips it started feeling smaller and now I can wheel it around into some pretty tight places. It’s going to give me some wonderful room on the inside, but forget about getting it into a single parking spot. The biggest advantage to the length will be that I can build in a wet bath with a shower and composting toilet. Fortunately, I plan to spend most of my time boondocking so parking should not be an issue. Can’t wait to see you start to build out your van. Looking forward to your upcoming videos. You are fun to watch and you could not possibly be more adorable.
Hey Alyssa! You can actually install a back up camera, my sister purchased one for my nephew for his car and it works just like one that was already there! She brought it on Amazon ☺️
Ok, I got it. I started watching you when you were living in the van already then picked up watching some of the videos when you were in your car. Got it!
Just gave the landlord a 30 day notice last week so I’ll be moving into my car to start 2022. Washington I think is a great place though. Just need to get through the cold months.
I thought about upgrading to a van but decided my Sonic hatch back was all I really needed. I live in it comfortably and you can’t beat the gas mileage. Also mine has the 1.4L turbo engine and it is so fun to drive.
Hi! Super happy you popped up on my feed! I got a Dodge Ram conversion van earlier this year to part time in until my lease is up and the gas mileage was something I should have thought about…but I didn’t lol I did the same thing my first fill up. $75 yikes lmaoooo but the tank is a lot bigger than I’m used to as well. I get 15 mpg 🤦🏽♀️ I love how high up I feel when I’m driving…but now I can see how EVERYONE IS ON THEIR PHONE WHEN THEY DRIVE lmao and that’s terrifying but nothing I can do about it so I try to not worry about it I pulled out the middle seats and kept the bench rear that folds flat for a bed, and I got a coffee table with a lift top that I put up against the side wall on the driver side. It’s great! I can’t afford a build, so this helps my space function a lot better. It’s a surface for cooking (well ventilated of course), it has baskets underneath for my kitchen stuff, and there is a recess under the lift top where I keep my laptop and my stove or anything I want to be kind of hidden away. If I lift the top up, it’s the perfect height with my bench rear seat to use as a workspace, and I can either leave it against the side wall, or swing it to be parallel with the rear seat and it’s a great dining table if I have a guest or a big workspace if I’m painting or just need more space to work. (I work remote.) Anyway, super happy to be a new subscriber! See you down the road!
I'm OBSESSED! Just found your channel, literally YESTERDAY and I idolize you already. Everything I've ever wanted to do, and exactly my style Miss Thang😘🤠
Those old vans are not as gas efficient as modern vans. I drive a toyota tacoma, with an extended cab and four doors and I get 28 miles per gallon. But I bought my truck in 2016 and paid $36,000.00 for it brand new. Once you built it out and add more weight to that van you'll be burning more gas. When driving a large vehicle its a good idea to get a pair of concaved mirrors from wal mart and stick one on each of your mirrors, it will eliminate blind spots and show you your rear tires so that you don't hit any curves. As a commercial driver we have a saying, drive with your ass. What this really means is be aware of where the rear of your vehicle is, because its back there. Good luck.
This is why I liked driving a small car, I didn’t have an “ass” to worry about 😩 I’ve looked into commercial driving several times. But after driving this van maybe I’m not cut out for it after all lol
Your van looks gorgeous! 🤩 It looks really good for that age! When you were talking about getting a smaller car, I was thinking "Ford Transit Connect" and then you said it 😁 It should be easier to drive with better gas mileage. And there are tons of examples on YT of very nice build in Connects (old and new model). I totally understand preferring a small vehicle! I learned to drive in my parents' old Ford Transit van, but then bought my Ford Fiesta which I used to get my driver's license. I've now had that car for 12 years and I'm still in love with it. How it's so easy to drive, can fit in small parking spots and can surprisingly hold a lot of stuff. But it's getting older (as am I, lol) and I'm upgrading to a Ford Transit Connect LWB Wagon. (Hopefully soon, still waiting for it) It will be for daily driving and car camping trips! It will be a flexible car with a boot jump I can put in when needed. But I'm already thinking about how I'll be missing my little Fiesta once I trade it in. It's been my companion for many adventures. Sharp turns are easy, U-turns are easy,... small cars are totally underrated! Buuuut I'm also looking forward to having a car I can sleep in. And no longer playing car tetris to go on holiday. (Although that always feels like an accomplishment). I wish I had loads of money so I could just have the two cars, but that would be overkill 😅 And I am already thankful I can get this new car. Maybe you can make some plans for your current van, a Transit Connect and some other vehicles and compare what you can fit in it. And if you like off roading, but want a smaller space, maybe a 4x4 could be cool as well. You can still feel powerful behind the wheel, I think. There are also lots of things to make a 4x4 into a camper, like drawers etc. I don't know a lot about prices and gas mileage though. I've just seen cool builds on TH-cam and Pinterest. Good luck with whatever you choose! (or haven chosen)
Great you are working things out in your 🚐👍🏽yeah give it a little more time to adjust 😘. Please stay safe and pray 🙏🏽 before you get up and before you travel 😇love you as darling 💗. Night Night from the DMV 🇺🇸
You can build it and live in it. Build your cabinets and kitchen to fit the bed. Then you can figure out how to reinvent your bed.With drawers or a piano hing down the center allowing you to lift one half. Making it easier to access that area.just an idea. And being able to cook indoors on rainy days should be nice. If you ever just want to bounce ideas off someone. You have an endless possibility with the van.But the more it weights the worse the fuel mileage. But also think of it as an investment. The van in today's market build out complete is worth more
Hi I just started to see all your videos yesterday night I also live in my car but I live in my car cuz I suffer from panic attacks and I park in front of a hospital and I sleep there too it’s so nice to see someone that does some of the thing like you even tho you get to travel love your videos keep it up
Girl, I've got a van too, and it's a BIG honkin vehicle lol When you mentioned backing that thing up, I FELT that. I've got shades on all of my windows, so my rearview mirror is useless, and I have to use my side mirrors, I have almost hit things and other vehicles on multiple occassions. I am always so shook up after driving it if parking around others is inolved.
I'm about to get a Ford Transit Connect after moving out of my apartment. It seems like the perfect van life van. Yours looks so sick though with the vintage look n red interior
loved the video as always girl! super interesting. i’d love to be a vehicle dweller one day! can’t believe it’s so hot where you are, i had snow here in the north of england this weekend and it’s absolutely freezing
I've had my van about 5 months since selling my Sonic, and the back right real tire is still taking some abuse from taking right turns too sharp and running into and over curbs.
The biggest differences between living in a car and living in a van, Alyssa Vanilla. I like it! You did a good job with this one. I like the way you choose to present yourself on camera. I like your personality. You make it real easy to listen to you and watch you. You stay on topic and you don't ramble. You know what you want to say. This is like a professional video. Yes. And I lived in my car for about 2 weeks once. Moved to a new city, got a new job and didn't know a sole in town. But actually I would be in the car for like 3 days and then be in a hotel room for 2 days. But anyway. Great video! I have just sub8yyscribed to your channel. So congrats, you just gained another one. I'm on this platform myself. So it's nothing for me to check you out. See what you are all about. No problem with at least giving your content a shot. After all, I'm trying to do the exact same thing you are, on here. And we have the same goal.
YaYYYY!! So glad things worked out for you dear heart and you were able to get back on the road so quickly. So happy for you! I can see that it is an adjustment getting used to the space inside and driving on the road. That will come with time, patience, and just doing it. You'll be whipping that thing around in no time. But if not then you're right, a Ford Transit Connect, or a Nissan NV 200 are excellent middle grounds for you to have more space inside while still having car-like drivability and getting into smaller spaces, not to mention better gas mileage. I'm sure you'll work out what's best for you at the right time. Congrats again, and be safe out there. Keep driving. PS, get some little round RV mirrors(I think they're called guide mirrors for RV) for your sideview mirrors; they're small enough so you can just stick onto the corner of your sideviews for better visibility while backing up and also covering your blind spots when backing up and turning. Much love and God bless you dear heart.
You will get use to driving a bigger vehicle I remember going from a car to SUV I was anxious because it felt different but quickly got use to it gas is more expensive hopefully you grow to love vanlife if you don't like it and don't need the space you can always go back to carlife.
You just got a new subscriber. I also live in my car. I love your van setup. I’m super new to this lifestyle, but I like it. Some churches will let you park there overnight and use their restrooms as well. How do you stay warm? I was going to buy something similar to your jackery and buy a small plug in space heater. The ones that are the size of a glade air freshener. Anyways the van is super sick. You could always get one of those scions or kias that look like a toaster. You would have more space, better gas mileage, and they maneuver more like a small car.
Also as far as that Chevy Astro I don't think there's a better van out there for our lifestyle for someone who doesn't want a van that is just too big for their taste, the Transit connect is pretty cool too I definitely could not see myself in it but I definitely would like to get myself a 4x4 Astro raised roof van at some point. Cheers and all the best stay safe
I completely agree that transit connects are the ideal size. I love my skoolie and I drive full size transits at work but I preferred the small size and better gas mileage of my car. I used to be able to drive hundreds of miles for very little money and now those same trips take planning and I actually have to save for them.
That’s been the biggest change for me; if I still had my car I’d be roaming around the country right now. With the van I actually have to plan out how much that’ll cost along with other things…pros and cons
🤣🤣🤣 that intro AND that outro ... Good to see you baby girl !! I personally think the van will grow on you .. but Totally understand the differences. ( Your uploads make me 😊 )
Hello from Northern AZ, Van life you have enough room for you to wear your cowboy hat, rather not able to in a car…safe travels stay safe…🤷🏻♂️🙋🏻♂️😁🦅🙏
I just did a cross country in my Prius and with my dog. I got it to travel and possibly live in. After my recent adventures, I have been considering a van due to wanting more space but because of the reasons you mentioned especially gas and also the Prius has climate control, I think I am going to try to make my car work. I just need to reduce my possessions. I had an instant pot, microwave, coffee maker, fridge and it was super difficult to use while in the car. It was nice at spots where I wasn't trying to be "stealth", but all in all I think I could easily do without it. Also, I grabbed a cheap tent from Walmart and used that when I could and that gave us a nice break where we could move about some more. I was in Arizona too doing some dispersed camping in Ehrenburg and Lake Havasu! Was so nice.
OMG You are the cutest thing ever. Ive been following you for a bit but just never comment but I just wanted to say I truly enjoy watching your journey. You be safe out there girl. Love the van BTW and i'm really sorry about your car. Lots of love from ARKANSAS ❤️❤️❤️
@@AlyssaVanilla yes girl! Haha you’re hilarious. I just started watching your videos. I’ve been living in my car for about 6 months now and I just got a mini van!! So excited to start traveling. You always encourage me to follow my dreams especially when so many people around me don’t understand. I feel like I have you as a friend! You make my days brighter and you help me so much. Thank you so much for making videos and just being yourself!! 😊♥️ you inspire me.
Great video, you had me loling. You remind me of my mother who also hates gas stations. I used to be a truck driver and remember the truck stops like Loves, Pilot and Flying Jay didn't have a lot of people fighting over candy bars. Maybe you can go there for gas. Also minivans like Toyota Sienna can give good space and good mpg.
Hey Alyssa, I completely understand where you are coming from about gas stations. I’m not a fan either! Have you thought about maybe filling up a portable gas can when you fill up the van? I’m not sure how many gallons they hold but maybe it could cut down on the amount of times you have to stop. Congratulations and I’m excited to hear more about your future #vanlife adventures!
I have lived out of a tractor trailer. Cab over , condo dual sleepers, fld freightliner and more . As for living out my car I used a Prius. Most time I spent on the road 2weeks. Removed seats installed a bed frame from a crib beefed up the bed frame. Since I have the means I live at the tiny cabin in 70380. It's just better for me with my issues. Just prescribed medication is filling a back pack students carry to school. Living out of a car that much space is a premium. Gen 2 Prius was good until I got a CPAP now I must have a Prius V or larger. The gen 2 for me gets 45 mpg. The V is a gen 3 platform and because of their advancement in technology the V gets about the same mpg as my gen 2. The V is more suited for interstate travel. 45mpg is just my standard now could not tolerate the economy of my MGM Mercury grand marquis. I bought my latest V a year ago and I was kicking myself for getting rid of my MGM sofa car it's really that comfortable . Then gas prices began to rise and all of a sudden I'm looking pretty wise. People can't understand the difference until they plan a trip. I don't do trip planning by dollars first I go by gallons. For instance a round trip to Colorado from here is 50 gallons. Just the way it is. I'm going to weigh options , train, plane, bus. I considered comfort , cost and time. Sorry but no option beats going in your own vehicle. Liability is your greatest downfall for going in your vehicle. You are a target for the criminally employed. Either the crash scammer, crack head window basher or the catalytic converter teams that cut while the muscle watches with a weapon while Billy Ed is removing $3K of value from your car so they can get $300 for your part. I was thinking about it we would be better off importing drugs and distributing them free to those who want them. First it should eliminate theft at the levels we experience crashing the price of the illicit drug market. Removing the gangster aspect of the issue that is with us no matter what. China got it under control by killing all involved in illicit drugs. User supplier all had same trophy. A single shot to the base of the skull ☠️.
I think your van is a beauty! I miss having mine.I had two when I was raising my kids.it's been stressful paying rent and I do find van dwelling interesting. But I hear ya on the price of gas thing. ⛽
Being in your Wheel Estate for a few weeks now what is the one thing you truly love and what's the one thing you hate or miss? Can't wait to see your journey w/ Stevie. Take Care and Stay Safe.
Your doing great! Props to you and I wish you nothing but the best! Get out there and explore the road and enjoy the wilderness! I've got a 99 tahoe and it works out nicely for me. LOVE YOU!!!! 😁
Hi Alyssa, excited to hear from u again. Thanks for sharing. I’m looking to get a Ford transit connect. Almost had one at my grasp for 2500 that was built out but needed a transmission. 7 people were head to head but it went to the highest bidder is all☹️. I will find another with a gd deal. Stay safe 💋💜👍🏽
Rock on glad to see a new video from you. It looks like you’re sleeping better you just look really well and rested. I loved the end of the video that was just raw footage haha. I have an suv for my living area. I like it but I feel ya on the gas I get 15-18 mpg band it’s not ideal for sure. But it is burly and. Can go many places. For now it does well but I am envious of people who can sit up in the back of their car without craning over. Check out forestry forest on TH-cam his van is the shit even has a wood burning stove. Let go of what once was and embrace what is now you’ll be digging it in no time. Change is hard but it keeps us strong and fresh
You could always put a 5 gallon bag of water and on Amazon you can order one of those USB pumps for the water you just press a button and it comes the water out of it. That's what I would get. That's what I'm going to get when I get my rV 4
Definitely more space means you will have to be strategic in your intentions with a thorough plan. Like a scripted video with a two week lag. Give you enough time to take raw footage in a new place gives you more time to have protion lol good thing about those van is if you take care of it no fail no exception, it's reliable. I could totally see that can all tricked out pearl white and sunset 🌇 sunset orange trim with the wheels extended out 3 inches. White interior with deep blue faux suede 🍊 accent.
I had a similar experience. My dad taught me how to drive with a truck. That was years ago, I decided to travel to LA for a concert and sleep in the truck to save money, but I get nervous driving it down the small streets. I drove 6 hours to get to LA, and have spent almost $200 on gas so far. I drive everyday though so I'm getting used to it. I find it hard to keep my stuff organized and it's place, which is very annoying.
Ok, so good to hear your assessment of the car vs van situation…..you are demonstrating much maturity, wisdom, and an excellent self appraisal of what your needs & comfort level is….. me personally, love the van, model, year, vintage, practicality. Maintinance requirements,,…..for a twenty something female that thing is just about as good as you can do..really… Honestly, on my personnel desire ability scale I give it an 8.5 to 9.0.just sooooo few negatives. I agree that a transit would be more desirable….. But a decent one would a cost you 3-5k more…you did real good. I haven’t read any other comments so forgive me if I repeat anything somebody else sez ..ok now for some advise…. Don’t know how long you’re planning on having a storage unit so that might determine what kind of stuff you could squirrel away for a future build. Of course I know you’re looking at videos of other builds and also of those that have vans like you have there’s a couple guys that have those from the late 90s that I really like. but honestly I know you’re not really into that…. which is in my estimation cooler…. Because I see some van builds that are basically these carpenter people doing kitchens and living rooms in Vans and to me that’s not the vibe I want to create in my living space. but after you check out some other videos and get some ideas I would start going to thrift stores and looking for pieces and parts that you could use in the future, whether it would be containers for clothes cooking stuff and building materials. but even before you start buying stuff , Figure out the way you got a kind a have an idea of how you want to lay things out. it’s nice that you’re short and you can have your bed across the back. that saves a lot of space but you might want to move it a bit forward turn it into a couch so when you have guests you could have kind of a one and then in the back you can have a garage full of stuff you want to bring . you’ll figure it out just be wise take your time you’re smart enough not to invest a lot of money in stuff, so if it doesn’t work out you don’t have that much into it.
Hello I have a van and a jeep and a Tahoe truck because I get tired driving same vehicle all the time so I always have more then one to drive but to me there all the same you get used to driving them but if you drive the small vehicle for a while and go into the bigger one it is different but you get used to it after so I believe you will get used to it as well it's not a big deal but gas is different for sure but my van don't do bad in mileage really at all hopefully you have great luck with your new van it is nice and I wish you alot of luck with it
Being a young beautiful woman you really need to watch your surroundings and have some kind of security and hopefully you never run into anything but it needs to be a top priority. Maybe you could address this or what you would recommend for the next young single woman. Take Care and Stay Safe.
Suv’s are a better option to vans including gas and 4 wheel drive power. To me building out is not necessary if you can keep it simply, neat n minimal. Slap on some tinted windows and tada you got stealth n privacy
U could always buy an aftermarket back up camera u can install it urself and they're not that expensive either. May help if u do a build later and the back windows may not be as clear
Check the bottoms parts of your car. Like the brakes, rotors, cv axle, struts, and suspensions etc. Because my car is also 32 years old and I took it to the mechanic and they said it was fine but I later learned that a lot of the bottoms parts needed to be replaced. Also since it's an older car, I would save up and prepare for the worst just in case it ever breaks down.
Yeah, I have a 1993 Nissan P/U and I’ve replaced the engine in 2019, and everything was great…..Until this year where I had to replace the front CV joints, ball joints, front & back shocks, and quite a few other parts under the vehicle.
Wow! Hi Alyssa, once you’ve had a chance to really drive the van, your perception may change. It is a totally different driving experience in larger vehicles. There is so much that you will be able to do in the van if you do a conversion. It will truly become a home on wheels. Great to see you doing well. 🤗
I can totally relate! Everyone assumed I wanted a Sprinter or ProMaster van, but I got the Nissan NV200 instead, similar to Transit Connect. I can still park in compact parking spaces! I don’t need to stand all the way either. If I’m in my van, I’m lounging or sleeping.
YES another cute compact van! And I totally agree, I don’t live in my van, I live outside. When I’m in my van I’m resting or sleeping 😌
I think about this all the time! I love my sedan. I love being able to drive fast, whip is around corners and have great gas milage. Honestly I've been thinking of SUV life because that way I have a bit more space and the ability to have a roof tent if I didn't feel like building a bed platform inside all while still getting better gas milage than a van. If my sedan could hold a roof tent, I wouldn't get a van for the longest time hahaha. Love that you keep it 100!
I think SUV life is the PERFECT middle ground. Idc what you get as long as we get to road trip together sometime 😭❤️
@@AlyssaVanilla I'm telling you, Redwoods meet up in the Spring!
I’ve watched most of your videos now preparing for my journey living in my car and traveling. I’ll be starting January 1st, 2022 and can’t wait to show my progress just like you. I’m preparing now and will keep you posted! Stay safe! :)
"Wa-wa-wa-wa-wait" 🤣🤣🤣brings back memories to when our family had an astrovan and we ran out of gas 🥲 they're cool little vans though
Great and honest review. Personally, I’m looking for a deal on a big van like yours, but haven’t been successful yet. I would prefer “van life” in a bigger vehicle, but I love that you’re honest about missing the smaller car. Sometimes, bigger isn’t better. I always look forward to your updates. Keep on keepin on Alyssa, and we’re here for you!
Thank you Tammy ☺️❤️
There needs to be a convention community where Van life and car life people meet up because I'm about to be in this situation and I'm absolutely terrified I have no clue what I'm doing and I could use some friends that are dealing with the same things 😭😭
I’m going through the exact same transition right now too. Glad I’m not alone. Thanks for making this. I may get an aftermarket back up camera.
I am definitely considering a Ford Transit Connect. It seems the perfect size for one person.
The transmission is weak on those units, beware
Cant wait to buy my camper! Been dreaming of for years! Im much older than you. I see myself doing this toward end of my working life. Ive been at it for 40 years now.
That’s was definitely a treat at the end
My kiddo has a fiat. She loves it! I'm 5'9"...not so much. Glad you have a place again and that you have a little more space. Looking forward to seeing what you do with Stevie Ray Van.
I love that you're comparing the two! I was considering getting an Astrovan/Safari as well, at one point, but decided to just use what I had. I think my biggest issue with my tiny car is that.. well I think I've packed too much stuff! I need to get rid of some of it, and/or organize it better, and then it won't feel so cramped. I've always been an over-packer, so moving into a tiny car has been a little frustrating as far as organization etc. BUT I adore my car and I want to become more of a minimalist, so I'm committed to making this work!
Thank you for taking us on your journey! Maybe one day I'll start making TH-cam videos about my experience as well o.0
I went through several organization phases of my car before I found the one that worked! You’ll get there :) and you totally should!
@@AlyssaVanilla Thank you! For now, I'll just keep being inspired by you! I'm excited to see how you convert your van, eventually!
@@AlyssaVanilla Hi Hallo 🥰🌺 ma'am your WhatsApp plz 🌹🥀 I'm excited for join you plz 🌹🥀 join me plz 🌹🥀 with the time difference and your looks great
@Anonymous Person Aww thanks for the preemptive support! I think I will once I settle into the experience a little bit more. It's a little intimidating to put myself out there like that 😳 😅
I am new to your channel and happy I stumbled upon you. I get what you mean about driving a larger vehicle. I just bought a 2008 Dodge Sprinter 170 inch wheel base, extended, high top. Apparently, it’s the biggest cargo van made. It’s got 14 feet of build space from the back of the front seats to the fear doors and is 24 feet long. The first time I got behind the wheel it felt like I was driving a gymnasium. After a couple of trips it started feeling smaller and now I can wheel it around into some pretty tight places. It’s going to give me some wonderful room on the inside, but forget about getting it into a single parking spot. The biggest advantage to the length will be that I can build in a wet bath with a shower and composting toilet. Fortunately, I plan to spend most of my time boondocking so parking should not be an issue. Can’t wait to see you start to build out your van. Looking forward to your upcoming videos. You are fun to watch and you could not possibly be more adorable.
Thank you Gordon :)
Hey Alyssa! You can actually install a back up camera, my sister purchased one for my nephew for his car and it works just like one that was already there! She brought it on Amazon ☺️
Ok, I got it. I started watching you when you were living in the van already then picked up watching some of the videos when you were in your car. Got it!
Just gave the landlord a 30 day notice last week so I’ll be moving into my car to start 2022. Washington I think is a great place though. Just need to get through the cold months.
That is such a nice van for its age. 👍 Amazing.
I thought about upgrading to a van but decided my Sonic hatch back was all I really needed. I live in it comfortably and you can’t beat the gas mileage. Also mine has the 1.4L turbo engine and it is so fun to drive.
Don’t switch until you have to! I miss my sonic every single day
$2,800 is a great price! 💅
Hi! Super happy you popped up on my feed!
I got a Dodge Ram conversion van earlier this year to part time in until my lease is up and the gas mileage was something I should have thought about…but I didn’t lol I did the same thing my first fill up. $75 yikes lmaoooo but the tank is a lot bigger than I’m used to as well. I get 15 mpg 🤦🏽♀️
I love how high up I feel when I’m driving…but now I can see how EVERYONE IS ON THEIR PHONE WHEN THEY DRIVE lmao and that’s terrifying but nothing I can do about it so I try to not worry about it
I pulled out the middle seats and kept the bench rear that folds flat for a bed, and I got a coffee table with a lift top that I put up against the side wall on the driver side. It’s great! I can’t afford a build, so this helps my space function a lot better. It’s a surface for cooking (well ventilated of course), it has baskets underneath for my kitchen stuff, and there is a recess under the lift top where I keep my laptop and my stove or anything I want to be kind of hidden away. If I lift the top up, it’s the perfect height with my bench rear seat to use as a workspace, and I can either leave it against the side wall, or swing it to be parallel with the rear seat and it’s a great dining table if I have a guest or a big workspace if I’m painting or just need more space to work. (I work remote.)
Anyway, super happy to be a new subscriber! See you down the road!
Hahahah I feel you on seeing everyone on their phone, it’s wild! And you seem to have a really nice set up in your van :)) thank you for being here 💓
I'm OBSESSED! Just found your channel, literally YESTERDAY and I idolize you already. Everything I've ever wanted to do, and exactly my style Miss Thang😘🤠
Those old vans are not as gas efficient as modern vans. I drive a toyota tacoma, with an extended cab and four doors and I get 28 miles per gallon. But I bought my truck in 2016 and paid $36,000.00 for it brand new. Once you built it out and add more weight to that van you'll be burning more gas. When driving a large vehicle its a good idea to get a pair of concaved mirrors from wal mart and stick one on each of your mirrors, it will eliminate blind spots and show you your rear tires so that you don't hit any curves. As a commercial driver we have a saying, drive with your ass. What this really means is be aware of where the rear of your vehicle is, because its back there. Good luck.
This is why I liked driving a small car, I didn’t have an “ass” to worry about 😩 I’ve looked into commercial driving several times. But after driving this van maybe I’m not cut out for it after all lol
Your van looks gorgeous! 🤩 It looks really good for that age!
When you were talking about getting a smaller car, I was thinking "Ford Transit Connect" and then you said it 😁 It should be easier to drive with better gas mileage. And there are tons of examples on YT of very nice build in Connects (old and new model).
I totally understand preferring a small vehicle! I learned to drive in my parents' old Ford Transit van, but then bought my Ford Fiesta which I used to get my driver's license. I've now had that car for 12 years and I'm still in love with it. How it's so easy to drive, can fit in small parking spots and can surprisingly hold a lot of stuff. But it's getting older (as am I, lol) and I'm upgrading to a Ford Transit Connect LWB Wagon. (Hopefully soon, still waiting for it) It will be for daily driving and car camping trips! It will be a flexible car with a boot jump I can put in when needed.
But I'm already thinking about how I'll be missing my little Fiesta once I trade it in. It's been my companion for many adventures. Sharp turns are easy, U-turns are easy,... small cars are totally underrated!
Buuuut I'm also looking forward to having a car I can sleep in. And no longer playing car tetris to go on holiday. (Although that always feels like an accomplishment). I wish I had loads of money so I could just have the two cars, but that would be overkill 😅 And I am already thankful I can get this new car.
Maybe you can make some plans for your current van, a Transit Connect and some other vehicles and compare what you can fit in it. And if you like off roading, but want a smaller space, maybe a 4x4 could be cool as well. You can still feel powerful behind the wheel, I think. There are also lots of things to make a 4x4 into a camper, like drawers etc. I don't know a lot about prices and gas mileage though. I've just seen cool builds on TH-cam and Pinterest. Good luck with whatever you choose! (or haven chosen)
Absolutely Stunning..
Great you are working things out in your 🚐👍🏽yeah give it a little more time to adjust 😘. Please stay safe and pray 🙏🏽 before you get up and before you travel 😇love you as darling 💗. Night Night from the DMV 🇺🇸
Happy Thanksgiving!!! Super cute I love it I know it would be a better off roader!
You can build it and live in it. Build your cabinets and kitchen to fit the bed.
Then you can figure out how to reinvent your bed.With drawers or a piano hing down the center allowing you to lift one half. Making it easier to access that area.just an idea. And being able to cook indoors on rainy days should be nice.
If you ever just want to bounce ideas off someone. You have an endless possibility with the van.But the more it weights the worse the fuel mileage. But also think of it as an investment. The van in today's market build out complete is worth more
Don't get to comfortable driving over things don't treat like a jeep . But you bought a very good van I had the ASTRO van . Loved it
Hi I just started to see all your videos yesterday night I also live in my car but I live in my car cuz I suffer from panic attacks and I park in front of a hospital and I sleep there too it’s so nice to see someone that does some of the thing like you even tho you get to travel love your videos keep it up
Girl, I've got a van too, and it's a BIG honkin vehicle lol When you mentioned backing that thing up, I FELT that. I've got shades on all of my windows, so my rearview mirror is useless, and I have to use my side mirrors, I have almost hit things and other vehicles on multiple occassions. I am always so shook up after driving it if parking around others is inolved.
Be safe out there and I love you.
I think a Ford transit van would be perfect for you. Enjoying your videos!
What a great name! I love SRV!
I'm about to get a Ford Transit Connect after moving out of my apartment. It seems like the perfect van life van. Yours looks so sick though with the vintage look n red interior
Jealous! We can trade for a day lol
I enjoy watching that the love of my life is currently safe and on such an amazing journey , stay vibrant ! Peace and love ❤️
See guys never lose hope 😅❤️
Thanks for all the tips your doing a great job love the phone drop
loved the video as always girl! super interesting. i’d love to be a vehicle dweller one day! can’t believe it’s so hot where you are, i had snow here in the north of england this weekend and it’s absolutely freezing
Wow wait England the country or New England???
Love the interior ♥️of the van 😃 enjoying fr jamaica 😎🌅🏖️ Caribbean
I've had my van about 5 months since selling my Sonic, and the back right real tire is still taking some abuse from taking right turns too sharp and running into and over curbs.
The biggest differences between living in a car and living in a van, Alyssa Vanilla. I like it! You did a good job with this one. I like the way you choose to present yourself on camera. I like your personality. You make it real easy to listen to you and watch you. You stay on topic and you don't ramble. You know what you want to say. This is like a professional video. Yes. And I lived in my car for about 2 weeks once. Moved to a new city, got a new job and didn't know a sole in town. But actually I would be in the car for like 3 days and then be in a hotel room for 2 days. But anyway. Great video! I have just sub8yyscribed to your channel. So congrats, you just gained another one. I'm on this platform myself. So it's nothing for me to check you out. See what you are all about. No problem with at least giving your content a shot. After all, I'm trying to do the exact same thing you are, on here. And we have the same goal.
YaYYYY!! So glad things worked out for you dear heart and you were able to get back on the road so quickly. So happy for you! I can see that it is an adjustment getting used to the space inside and driving on the road. That will come with time, patience, and just doing it. You'll be whipping that thing around in no time. But if not then you're right, a Ford Transit Connect, or a Nissan NV 200 are excellent middle grounds for you to have more space inside while still having car-like drivability and getting into smaller spaces, not to mention better gas mileage. I'm sure you'll work out what's best for you at the right time. Congrats again, and be safe out there. Keep driving. PS, get some little round RV mirrors(I think they're called guide mirrors for RV) for your sideview mirrors; they're small enough so you can just stick onto the corner of your sideviews for better visibility while backing up and also covering your blind spots when backing up and turning. Much love and God bless you dear heart.
Thank you 😊❤️❤️❤️
Like Stevie Ray Vaughan, the late blues guitarist and singer. I recognized that immediately.
Stay safe out there, have fun, and enjoy that big beautiful world!
You will get use to driving a bigger vehicle I remember going from a car to SUV I was anxious because it felt different but quickly got use to it gas is more expensive hopefully you grow to love vanlife if you don't like it and don't need the space you can always go back to carlife.
You just got a new subscriber. I also live in my car. I love your van setup. I’m super new to this lifestyle, but I like it. Some churches will let you park there overnight and use their restrooms as well. How do you stay warm? I was going to buy something similar to your jackery and buy a small plug in space heater. The ones that are the size of a glade air freshener. Anyways the van is super sick. You could always get one of those scions or kias that look like a toaster. You would have more space, better gas mileage, and they maneuver more like a small car.
Also as far as that Chevy Astro I don't think there's a better van out there for our lifestyle for someone who doesn't want a van that is just too big for their taste, the Transit connect is pretty cool too I definitely could not see myself in it but I definitely would like to get myself a 4x4 Astro raised roof van at some point. Cheers and all the best stay safe
Very truly Walter! And thank you :)
Shalom
Raised roof 4 wheeled drive….. now your taking
THANK YOU FOR YOUR REVIEW GIRL!
I completely agree that transit connects are the ideal size. I love my skoolie and I drive full size transits at work but I preferred the small size and better gas mileage of my car. I used to be able to drive hundreds of miles for very little money and now those same trips take planning and I actually have to save for them.
That’s been the biggest change for me; if I still had my car I’d be roaming around the country right now. With the van I actually have to plan out how much that’ll cost along with other things…pros and cons
🤣🤣🤣 that intro AND that outro ...
Good to see you baby girl !!
I personally think the van will grow on you .. but Totally understand the differences.
( Your uploads make me 😊 )
I’m hoping it does! Thank you :)
@@AlyssaVanilla much Love ❤️.. you’re welcome
Hello from Northern AZ, Van life you have enough room for you to wear your cowboy hat, rather not able to in a car…safe travels stay safe…🤷🏻♂️🙋🏻♂️😁🦅🙏
I love my ProMaster City, but sometimes dream of a Prius! 💕 Prius is the perfect stealth camper!
I just did a cross country in my Prius and with my dog. I got it to travel and possibly live in. After my recent adventures, I have been considering a van due to wanting more space but because of the reasons you mentioned especially gas and also the Prius has climate control, I think I am going to try to make my car work. I just need to reduce my possessions. I had an instant pot, microwave, coffee maker, fridge and it was super difficult to use while in the car. It was nice at spots where I wasn't trying to be "stealth", but all in all I think I could easily do without it. Also, I grabbed a cheap tent from Walmart and used that when I could and that gave us a nice break where we could move about some more. I was in Arizona too doing some dispersed camping in Ehrenburg and Lake Havasu! Was so nice.
You can definitely make the car work, and prius’ are crazy good on gas! You’ll be set!!
@@AlyssaVanilla Thank you! Your videos kept me company haha
OMG You are the cutest thing ever. Ive been following you for a bit but just never comment but I just wanted to say I truly enjoy watching your journey. You be safe out there girl. Love the van BTW and i'm really sorry about your car. Lots of love from ARKANSAS ❤️❤️❤️
Awe thank you for finally commenting I appreciate it so much! ❤️ love from AZ
@@AlyssaVanilla you're welcome girl 🙂✌️
I love you Alyssa! I am glad you had a Happy Thanksgiving! I am sorry about the dispute! Keep up with the videos! Love them!
I love you Anne thank you!
Great To See You Girl. Much Love. ✌️
I love when you add bloopers 😂❤ love ya!
i need to start doing this again!!
@@AlyssaVanilla yes girl! Haha you’re hilarious. I just started watching your videos. I’ve been living in my car for about 6 months now and I just got a mini van!! So excited to start traveling. You always encourage me to follow my dreams especially when so many people around me don’t understand. I feel like I have you as a friend! You make my days brighter and you help me so much. Thank you so much for making videos and just being yourself!! 😊♥️ you inspire me.
Have you considered a sport utility of some sort? I love how humble and practical you are. God bless and keep you safe!
Alyssa, pumped for you! I sent you a message on reddit, I wish you so much success and happy you were able to find a solution after the sub-compact.
Oh wow Reddit! I don’t think I’ve ever checked my messages on there hahaha thank you 😊
Great video, you had me loling. You remind me of my mother who also hates gas stations. I used to be a truck driver and remember the truck stops like Loves, Pilot and Flying Jay didn't have a lot of people fighting over candy bars. Maybe you can go there for gas. Also minivans like Toyota Sienna can give good space and good mpg.
Tuck stops are my FAVORITE
I just found your channel and have watched all your stuff,. GREAT WORK! Subbed.😉👌
Hey Alyssa, I completely understand where you are coming from about gas stations. I’m not a fan either! Have you thought about maybe filling up a portable gas can when you fill up the van? I’m not sure how many gallons they hold but maybe it could cut down on the amount of times you have to stop. Congratulations and I’m excited to hear more about your future #vanlife adventures!
Your content is chill and brave blessings sister 🙏 ❤
I have lived out of a tractor trailer. Cab over , condo dual sleepers, fld freightliner and more . As for living out my car I used a Prius. Most time I spent on the road 2weeks. Removed seats installed a bed frame from a crib beefed up the bed frame.
Since I have the means I live at the tiny cabin in 70380. It's just better for me with my issues. Just prescribed medication is filling a back pack students carry to school. Living out of a car that much space is a premium.
Gen 2 Prius was good until I got a CPAP now I must have a Prius V or larger.
The gen 2 for me gets 45 mpg. The V is a gen 3 platform and because of their advancement in technology the V gets about the same mpg as my gen 2. The V is more suited for interstate travel. 45mpg is just my standard now could not tolerate the economy of my MGM Mercury grand marquis. I bought my latest V a year ago and I was kicking myself for getting rid of my MGM sofa car it's really that comfortable . Then gas prices began to rise and all of a sudden I'm looking pretty wise. People can't understand the difference until they plan a trip. I don't do trip planning by dollars first I go by gallons. For instance a round trip to Colorado from here is 50 gallons. Just the way it is. I'm going to weigh options , train, plane, bus. I considered comfort , cost and time. Sorry but no option beats going in your own vehicle. Liability is your greatest downfall for going in your vehicle. You are a target for the criminally employed. Either the crash scammer, crack head window basher or the catalytic converter teams that cut while the muscle watches with a weapon while Billy Ed is removing $3K of value from your car so they can get $300 for your part.
I was thinking about it we would be better off importing drugs and distributing them free to those who want them. First it should eliminate theft at the levels we experience crashing the price of the illicit drug market. Removing the gangster aspect of the issue that is with us no matter what. China got it under control by killing all involved in illicit drugs. User supplier all had same trophy. A single shot to the base of the skull ☠️.
I can't even get over how adorable you are sometimes.🥰🌿 I'm totally naming my car Stevie Ray Car now.
*yes i know van vaugh* before i get ripped 😄
i ❤️ u
I think your van is a beauty! I miss having mine.I had two when I was raising my kids.it's been stressful paying rent and I do find van dwelling interesting. But I hear ya on the price of gas thing. ⛽
You give me Bailey Sarian vibes. I love it!!!
Thanks!
Idk why but when you said aye Dios mio my heart started racing. I been attracted to girls talking Spanish lately. Lmao
But yeah gas prices suck and they are only getting worse
So happy to see you again, that smile just knocks me out be careful with the van okay, sincerely cowboy
Thank you for your inspiration on your videos:)
The ending 😄
For goodness sake. Gets a cowgirl hat that fits. You look great in a western hat. And you really rock those boots.
❤
Being in your Wheel Estate for a few weeks now what is the one thing you truly love and what's the one thing you hate or miss? Can't wait to see your journey w/ Stevie. Take Care and Stay Safe.
I love the look 🤩 I hate the gas mileage 😩
I have a Toyota Corolla and I plan on doing a lot of traveling and boondocking with it.
Your doing great! Props to you and I wish you nothing but the best! Get out there and explore the road and enjoy the wilderness! I've got a 99 tahoe and it works out nicely for me. LOVE YOU!!!! 😁
Catching up on your vids ☺️💙
Hi Alyssa, excited to hear from u again. Thanks for sharing. I’m looking to get a Ford transit connect. Almost had one at my grasp for 2500 that was built out but needed a transmission. 7 people were head to head but it went to the highest bidder is all☹️. I will find another with a gd deal. Stay safe 💋💜👍🏽
Rock on glad to see a new video from you. It looks like you’re sleeping better you just look really well and rested. I loved the end of the video that was just raw footage haha. I have an suv for my living area. I like it but I feel ya on the gas I get 15-18 mpg band it’s not ideal for sure. But it is burly and. Can go many places. For now it does well but I am envious of people who can sit up in the back of their car without craning over. Check out forestry forest on TH-cam his van is the shit even has a wood burning stove. Let go of what once was and embrace what is now you’ll be digging it in no time. Change is hard but it keeps us strong and fresh
van life 4 ever !
You are awesome, I really enjoyed watching your videos.
Great video thanks for sharing
You could always put a 5 gallon bag of water and on Amazon you can order one of those USB pumps for the water you just press a button and it comes the water out of it. That's what I would get. That's what I'm going to get when I get my rV 4
I love those!
My Chevy Malibu costs 65 to fill in Canada :( 50 for a van that size is a great price at least in Canada! Love your videos ❤️
Goodness!!!! That’s wild! & thank you :)
Definitely more space means you will have to be strategic in your intentions with a thorough plan. Like a scripted video with a two week lag. Give you enough time to take raw footage in a new place gives you more time to have protion lol good thing about those van is if you take care of it no fail no exception, it's reliable. I could totally see that can all tricked out pearl white and sunset 🌇 sunset orange trim with the wheels extended out 3 inches. White interior with deep blue faux suede 🍊 accent.
You look awesome!!!! Just found your channel chica!!!
I had a similar experience. My dad taught me how to drive with a truck. That was years ago, I decided to travel to LA for a concert and sleep in the truck to save money, but I get nervous driving it down the small streets. I drove 6 hours to get to LA, and have spent almost $200 on gas so far. I drive everyday though so I'm getting used to it. I find it hard to keep my stuff organized and it's place, which is very annoying.
I used to pay $45 to fill up my camry hybrid, but now I have to pay $70 to fill up the truck. The gas gets used up way faster as well.
Yeah super annoying! Also those LA streets absolutely suck in some places 😩
Ok, so good to hear your assessment of the car vs van situation…..you are demonstrating much maturity, wisdom, and an excellent self appraisal of what your needs & comfort level is….. me personally, love the van, model, year, vintage, practicality. Maintinance requirements,,…..for a twenty something female that thing is just about as good as you can do..really…
Honestly, on my personnel desire ability scale I give it an 8.5 to 9.0.just sooooo few negatives. I agree that a transit would be more desirable…..
But a decent one would a cost you 3-5k more…you did real good.
I haven’t read any other comments so forgive me if I repeat anything somebody else sez
..ok now for some advise….
Don’t know how long you’re planning on having a storage unit so that might determine what kind of stuff you could squirrel away for a future build. Of course I know you’re looking at videos of other builds and also of those that have vans like you have there’s a couple guys that have those from the late 90s that I really like.
but honestly I know you’re not really into that…. which is in my estimation cooler…. Because I see some van builds that are basically these carpenter people doing kitchens and living rooms in Vans and to me that’s not the vibe I want to create in my living space.
but after you check out some other videos and get some ideas I would start going to thrift stores and looking for pieces and parts that you could use in the future, whether it would be containers for clothes cooking stuff and building materials.
but even before you start buying stuff , Figure out the way you got a kind a have an idea of how you want to lay things out.
it’s nice that you’re short and you can have your bed across the back.
that saves a lot of space but you might want to move it a bit forward turn it into a couch so when you have guests you could have kind of a one and then in the back you can have a garage full of stuff you want to bring
. you’ll figure it out just be wise take your time you’re smart enough not to invest a lot of money in stuff, so if it doesn’t work out you don’t have that much into it.
Stay 🙌 Blessed
Hello I have a van and a jeep and a Tahoe truck because I get tired driving same vehicle all the time so I always have more then one to drive but to me there all the same you get used to driving them but if you drive the small vehicle for a while and go into the bigger one it is different but you get used to it after so I believe you will get used to it as well it's not a big deal but gas is different for sure but my van don't do bad in mileage really at all hopefully you have great luck with your new van it is nice and I wish you alot of luck with it
So happy all is well. Your an inspiration to me..✌
Being a young beautiful woman you really need to watch your surroundings and have some kind of security and hopefully you never run into anything but it needs to be a top priority. Maybe you could address this or what you would recommend for the next young single woman. Take Care and Stay Safe.
I keep seeing this channel on recommend so I subscribed interesting videos
Thank you Frankie!!
Suv’s are a better option to vans including gas and 4 wheel drive power. To me building out is not necessary if you can keep it simply, neat n minimal. Slap on some tinted windows and tada you got stealth n privacy
Nice edit at the end
U could always buy an aftermarket back up camera u can install it urself and they're not that expensive either. May help if u do a build later and the back windows may not be as clear
Full on Texas Alyssa came out at the start of this video haha. Glad to see you're doing well!
Thank you Texas Trevor!!
My 02 Chevy Express 3500 is named Goliath.😎👍👀