8 Years No Rent Experiment | Living In A Simple Minivan Camper
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 19 พ.ค. 2024
- #vanlife #fulltimetravel
Eight years ago I started an experiment to improve my life. I stopped paying rent and moved into a Ram ProMaster City minivan. To make the van comfortable, I added a MaxxAir Roof Vent Fan, a sink with running water, a stove to cook and make coffee and a Solar power system for my electrical needs.
At first I wasn’t sure if I would be comfortable, but the van quickly became my home. And after a little over a year, I was able to quit my job in a hostile work environment. I left the hot Southern California desert for a cooler environment, and quickly found a much better paying job at a small well run family business.
Looking back over these last eight years, I can see that I was fortunate to be able to claw my way out of being in debt and living in an area that I didn’t want to be. Now I am able to move around a bit to find better weather. And these last several years have been the happiest and healthiest I’ve ever known.
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My name is Scott and in 2015, I bought a Ram ProMaster City to live in. Even though I didn’t know much about RV’s and campervans, I set about building the van out as a minivan camper. And in April of 2016, I moved into my minivan full time.
Over the years, I’ve learned you don’t need to have a big skill set to build your own campervan. And that living as a minimalist and utilizing solar power can be a less expensive way to live. I’ve also learned that a minivan can be a very comfortable home.
Please follow along as I document my journey.
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Thank for the kind feedback on the water filter, as I will now attempted to make my own with the following information you have given in the demonstrated link. I've only seen one other homemade water filter, it wasn't as sturdy as yours. It's going to save me lots of $$ this way rather then continual water purchases I've made every couple of weeks. I remember you saying you use dirty water, do you have the advantage of collecting from running stream water coming down from mountains or both the cities water faucets? since you are mostly a city van lifer, just carious. I also would love to send some pictures perhaps once I'm finished because I've never done anything like this before, I don't own a drill, I will now in doing this project, and would want to show my appreciation like paying it forward, and be proud while drinking clean water I filtered myself, Thanks to you!
When I say “dirty” water it simply means any water that hasn’t already been filtered. I would only use river or stream water in an emergency situation since that type of water will clog up the filters quickly
@@StaticCamperVan Good to know, I'm glad I asked, I own a 2009 Chevy Tahoo xxL fully loaded only 11 miles when I bought new, currently 43,000 I've always considered converting into a secondary home on wheels, I was stricken with an health issue in the past, now more managed and feeling better. now asking myself whats up a head for me and my Chevy, watching your channel is helping me with these many questions. May you continue to have overflowing blessings upon and around you. Be healthy n Safe. Thanks again
How rare, someone actually telling the truth, both the negatives and positives on van life.
Scott, I usually watch you on my TV but I went onto my computer to let you know that I admire you for living life the way you want. I love watching all the beautiful places you travel to on the west coast. Thank you for sharing your life with us all.
Thanks Madison
T.V., you ain’t missing much, I find myself watching more TH-cam than actual tv, all the good tv shows were in the 80’s and 90’s to me.
TH-cam is all we need
Absolutely, love my you tube. ❤️
Love you tube, maybe too much as there is so much to look at.🙂
Same here, lol! TH-cam on an iPad is all I need. I have TH-cam Premium so I don’t watch commercials. The one year plan is most economical.
Agred
I recommend the Toyota Sienna minivan for anyone considering this. It’s a hybrid vehicle, so the gas mileage is much better. I get 36 miles per gallon. I can also use the AC while sleeping. The AC runs off of the hybrid battery. The engine comes on for a couple of minutes every ten or fifteen minutes to recharge the hybrid battery. It’s easy to be stealth in a minivan!
Great tip! Thank you 🙏🏼
Yes indeed. Another camper used his prius for heat during the winter.
Toyota Sienna is expensive. Plus you need window covering that will attract attention.
As I edge closer to retirement, van life is becoming more appealing because of folks like you who took time to make quality videos about the lifestyle. So glad I found your channel. 😊☕️
Awe, thanks Chippi. It’s nice to know that I have provided you with some useful information. Is that coffee for me?
Your lifestyle reflects the kind, resourceful and intelligent person that you are. From Australia I look forward to your videos. Go well Scott.
Yes (blushing)…
Ya van life seems like a good option if you don’t have a lot of money . In my retirement I’m thinking about buying a van and convert it to home.
Congrats on 8 rent free years.
From someone stuck in a death contract (mortgage)
I’m sorry to hear that. Having a mortgage years ago didn’t work out well for me. But there are some advantages to having your own home
So True!
I'll take the death contract. It'll be paid off at 55 years old & has doubled in value v v that & staying at my career for over 23 years & counting along with a large 401k balance will provide me a comfortable retirement. Good. Responsible lifelong decisions
There are some significant advantages to owning your own home. For my wife and I it means that once the kids leave home we can sell up, downsize, move out to a countryside/coastal location, and put a huge slice of our equity into the retirement pot.
Absolutely
I have moved away from commercialized van life channels like vancityvanlife. Yours is just basic life. Thank you so much! God bless!!
Chrome is a good friend of mine. He’s been incredibly helpful and supportive over the years. Chrome is a Great person.
Good. Some vanlifers are selling, not real.
You don't need to be fancy to be happy
I have found that Chrome never responds to comments..he's too busy
@StaticCamperVan I agree, he comes across as quite genuine, his channel is quite big so I'm not surprised he can't answer all emails
So proud of you! I too am not van life... CAR LIFE... I am 50, turning 51... Getting away from evil people. I am a Care Manager. I work hard and saving to buy a home. (God Bless!)
You are my favorite van life TH-camr. Have a great week ❤️
Aww, thanks Darla
Awesome!!👍😎🇨🇦☕
I love your life Scott. Your analytic and so smart in the way your home looks. It's homey and so cozy. You made a good decision. 😊❤
Congratulations on 8 years Scott!! I think this lifestyle suits you beautifully. You say hiking is your hobby, and I'd say photography is your art. You are a fantastic, keen eyed photographer with an innate sense for composition. ... perseverance furthers ...
Aww thanks
That looks like plenty of space especially when you can just step outside and be wherever you want.
Key words-Happier and Healthy. You can’t put a price on that. I’m impressed. And great engineering.
Right on Scott! Been watching from the beginning. In my eyes you’re the TRUE vanlifer…everyone else taps out, buying land, buying big fancy rigs, trailers, etc. Great milestone and always appreciate your content and low key vids you put out.
Hey I hope you’re doing great, thanks
Really incredible that you have lived like this for 8 years. Your van has lasted that long too. Your content is always honest and relatable. You are true to yourself and your lifestyle. I wish you all the best for the future.
Congratulations Scott. I cringe every time I write a check each month for rent for a place to sleep.
Even if you had a cheap place you easily saved over 50 grand.
I’m not sure if I would have even made 50k over that time. Haha
Happy Anniversary Scott! I have been watching you for years and love your "real" content. Here's to many more years and videos! ❤
Thanks Margo
The most important thing about van life is to choose the most reliable vehicle available. I live in an old 1995 GMC van & it is simple & and bulletproof.
Great video.
I moved into a hi-top nine yrs. ago with my cat. Continued working ft as I had been. This allowed me to save even more by nixing rent/utils. Now recently retired...peace, mobility, no debt. Have all I need and am comfortable. Roomy van also allows me to exercise when bad weather prevents hiking
All the best to you..
There are many experienced vanlife experts out there, but you are the solid one that makes me believe you truly live in that amazing van. There are some with amazing built but most of them are half-baked.
Great video. Those living in conventional homes will never be able to appreciate the freshness of outer air or how gorgeous the moon glides behind a sunset. That's what I miss most about living in my car. Many more years of happiness to you Scott. Thanks, for sharing.
My home isn’t “on wheels” yet I appreciate and enjoy crisp morning air, sunrise and the moon’s phases. They ain’t just for folks who live in vehicles to appreciate, ya know.✌🏼
@@DjD5 Hi. What I am saying is when I was homeless, I was forced to begin the day emptying trash and I'd roll down the window to an incredible breath of fresh air I don't get from looking out the window. At night I was often afraid. But the sunset rested my soul. Nothing being inside of a home or apartment can give you.
@@cdmbooks1493 houses and apartments have windows that open also…you don’t have to live in a vehicle to enjoy “fresh air!”✌🏼
A home isn't prison 😅
@@PEDALSnPROJECTS No. But being homeless places you in nature and an environment you might not otherwise see. When I tell you waking up to that whiff of fresh air from my vehicle, no home window ever gave me that feeling. I am housed now, but I miss that direct contact daily with nature.
I had to rent a car recently and I was annoyed it didn’t come with a toilet so I suppose you could say we are used to living in a van. We’re retired, three years traveling in a full sized Promaster and full of admiration for you living in a mini van. I like standing up in my home! Best wishes.
Hi from Australia. Van life here is getting more popular. There is a housing crisis (as there is worldwide). I retired two years ago and decided to give up my rental and hit the road. I almost accidently found house and pet minding which I do as well. Van life is not cheap. I have had a few expenses, but even though I haven't managed to save much, my emergency fund has remained the same.
Good to hear that you’re doing well
Being a house/pet sitter is a great income plan - plus nice breaks from the road!
Yes another year, congratulations. Your set up is one of the best for a mini van. Everything you need and most stuff you don't . I'm glad you are honest about the costs involved. Just your coffee alone is more than I regularly spend on it. But you get premium beans from small roasters and I like that.
It is very important to me to support small family owned businesses
Every time I see a van like yours on the road, I envision myself living that lifestyle and saving a lot of money. Congratulations and thank you for sharing your knowledge.
Oh my goodness .. Same !!
I don't have a TV and don't like watching TV ..
I do use my phone to watch TH-cam for ideas for the stock market and vanlife ..
My future goals ❤❤❤
Ditto 😊
Really enjoyed your presentation. You are smooth and kept it going. I live similarly but in a 4wd and yes walking is my favorite hobby.
You have my immense respect 🙏 Arthur from the 🇬🇧 UK
Wow Scott! You've almost convinced me to look at mini vans for my next home. I too want to be more outside than inside. Thank you for the tour!
Sounds like a minivan might work for you too
Do it! YOLO! And film your journey! ❤
So glad you found vanlife for your health and soul!
Thanks Bea
@@StaticCamperVan You bet! 🌊
Scott, my wife and I have watched all your videos and we have enjoyed each one of them. I have a brother who lives in Santa Cruz and I am amazed at how expensive it is now to live anywhere on the coast of California. How awesome it is for you to be able to enjoy the places you have been able to be at over the last 8 years and not have to work three jobs 6 days a week to be able to do that. You could live cheaper by staying out in the desert all winter but being able to take a walk on the beach or a redwood forest every day is truly priceless. I tell my wife every time we watch your videos that the best part time job you could get for yourself is working at a coffee place LOL.
Hey Thanks. Where I am now in Humboldt is a little less expensive for me to be. But yes, prices are high everywhere. Haha, a job in coffee would be great
True - Scott could do sometime at a local Starbucks; after having the training, (1) learn how to make a great latte and, (2) can work anywhere because any Starbucks anywhere would hire you on the spot. 😊
I always look forward to your videos! I agree with the love of walking! I walk about 5-8 miles five days a week and I feel so much better and it puts me on a walker’s high!
Thanks Blythe. I’ve been slowing down a bit. I walk then stop and take in the view for a while!
This video makes me want to go around my living and explain each part. I admire that you're enjoying living in different parts of the US.
I started van life in Montreal and I also love being outdoors, get all the vitamin D I need
Congrats Scott! Living with heaven on earth inside your life right now.. Rent Free and Travel everywhere! Staying humble and Safe out there Scott 💝
Thanks for sharing your life with us.
Safe and comfy travels dear Scott... May the warm n fuzzies stay with you, and fun and adventure continues to softly call your name.
Sending you big fat hugs and lotsa love❤
How have I not seen your channel before?! Fascinating tour sir, 8 years is a very long time so you're quite the seasoned vanlifer!
I really enjoyed this video. You showed us how you managed with daily issues from filling the gas tank with keeping enough toilet and, of course, daily coffee ☕️. I like you, have coffee ☕️ two to three times a day. Cindy 👋
Legend mate! Actually a real van life page. Keeping it real brother 🤙🏼🇦🇺
All positive comments. You are helping so many people
I appreciate your gentle manner.
In a space the size of some closets you have managed to provide yourself with the necessities..and comforts of life...without being over crowded.
This is an example of...
The wisdom of simplicity.
The luxury of efficiency.
Good job.
Great decision, you have done well. Love the video updates.
Thanks Chance
Wishing you continued happiness and success in your chosen lifestyle.
Thank you
Congrats on 8 years. I still think you have the most practical/functional setup I have seen in a minivan. Love your cooking videos the most:)
Thank you. I’ll try and do some more cooking
Congrats on 8 years Scott! You are so well organized & informative, really enjoy your content.
Thank you
Well done on the 8 years, you have many great ideas, 3 years for me in July, I love your podcasts, they have a great chill and relax vibe
Thanks Sean
I'm over 9 years debt/rent free because I downsized from a luxury apartment to a one bedroom house. Best thing i did.
Your set up seems practical and doable. Thanks for sharing
I just started rv full time living life and I feel that while renting it’s the best thing to do. I’ll get to travel and once I’m ready to buy a house I’ll be ready to settle in one spot
F70 … Always enjoy watching your van life videos!
Really interesting thank you and good luck for the future.... watching from Spain 👍
Congratulations Scott! You seem so much happier than working a job you don’t like to pay for things you don’t really want to
This is the best van video I've seen, and I've watched a lot. I've lived in a static (horse drawn) vehicle too for several years, albeit on my own block of land, and I love the small, cosy and simple way of life. When I retire in a few years godwilling, I'm going to have a vehicle like yours.
I got so excited when your video popped up Scott! Happy 8th Vanday to you!
Thanks Julie
✨️🌌🙋♀️☕️This has made for a delightful evening listening to you Static as the years you've recounted...
The little salt lamp with light on gives a warm glow and so home-like gives the feeling.
Blessings
☕️🙋♀️🌌✨️
Thank you. Have a wonderful evening
Static, Thank You...
Here it's just begun to rain and lite thundering.
Coffee seems to be just the treat to make.
Your Kindness appreciated
🌌⚡️🙋♀️☕️
Great video Scott.. Enjoy your messages and your travels.. Stay safe out there.. :)
Thanks Linda
I lost out with your van life for awhile
I sort of missed seeing your experiences. I hope to not loose your station now. Take care, stay well.
Thanks Margaret. Hope you’re doing well
So yeah, I think you're more able to control what you eat when you make things yourself. For some folks that's no big deal but when we have health issues, controlling intake is critical. You've done a great job of fixing the van to suit yourself and it's the perfect setup for your life.
Most practical can I've seen. I really hate these new vans with butcher block and a huge kitchen sink and appliances and a big shower. It's gotten out of control.
I love watching Dee (w/the Lady Bugout channel) because she has created a luxe interior on the cheap - way nicer than most of the expensive ones.
8 years doing the real deal. Very impressive.
Hi there scott thanks for the tour of your van glad to hear your still happy with the lifestyle. I hope you're van keeps being reliable for you
Good presentation hon.
Good job Sir ! I envy you ! I would love it !
This is an excellent and honest review of what we encounter in van life. Thank you for covering all the pertinent things without making it such a long video. You have a great setup. I especially like the work station and the cooktop you have!
Nice van life overview with a candid assessment of the pros and cons of your 8 years of experience. Thanks!
We appreciate you too Scott., Take care
Best of luck to you . Stay happy and healthy !
Thanks for your honesty Scott. Some good advice here. Have a great life.
Well done Scott you have the van looking good everything you need do you miss having some company wishing you safe and happy travelling and keep well Linda in Scotland ❤ ❤
Came across your channel. Excellent vlog enjoyed watching your vlog. You must have great experience and lovely memories of the great places you visit. Absolutely blown away that you managed 8 years in a small van. Will keep watching from now on.
I always find it fascinating how people's living spaces live and grow with them; in your case, b/c the space is small, it's going to be more noticeable, of course. Thanks for giving us insights into your interesting life. You're definitely a survivor. Good bless.
Your voice is so very soothing to listen to.
Thanks Sonya
Absolutely Fantastic. Glad we came along to watch you go through it. It's been fun and interesting
Just make good decisions everyday. Do like your videos
Good luck. Take care. Safe travels.
Love your van and lifestyle. It's perfect. You look younger now than you did when you started too!
I like the setup inside your van , well organized and you have everything you need for your daily life 😊
Totally enjoyed this video, Scott. Thanks for sharing it.
BE HAPPY YOU HAVE ACHIEVED SO MUCH TO BE PROUD OF.
❤❤😊😊
Im just starting the van life adventure . Im disabled and because of one of the extreme health challenges i deal with, aot if water is an absolute must. And toilet. Unfortunately, because of time, health, and money, I won't be able to get the type of setup that you and other vanlifers that I follow have.
I'm glad that you brought up the water and coffee thing!!
I am finding other van lifers with disabilities to follow for how tos and inspiration.
Van life doesn’t solve anything but an itch to gtfo, and that is everything. Happy trails dude!
Scott, good to see you healthy. 8 years is a long time. you have stamina. a real endurance runner, so to speak. hopefully everything will continue to go well for you. 😎
Mr.Scott,congratulations,for me too you are doing the best and I got my decision,I will live in such c micro camper ❤
Thank you for another informative and entertaining video. I totally get loving the minivan platform. After my husband passed away I found I am more comfortable traveling in our minivan than our class b, RV. I also don't watch much television and spend most of my waking hours outdoors even from cooking. I do enjoy a movie occasionally, but I have a DVD/Blue Ray player for that and can check out Movies from the library or even pick them up at thrift stores or garage sales.. I am not full time and only get to travel and explore part time, because of obligations that keep me tied to a City. My time away has to be planned and arrangements have to be made, but that just makes my time traveling and living out of my vehicle that much more special. I do agree living mobile can really contribute to a happy healthy life. Thank you for taking us along on your journey. Safe travels.
I will definetly try your lifestyle as soon as my daugther has left home. Thx for all the information.
I enjoy the transparency. Thanks
Thank you for your synopsis of Van Life. Very interesting! Take care of yourself and keep drinking your Coffee!
You are very interesting and I like your calm demeanor. I also like the information you have given about where you go and your experiences. Also you are very entertaining and humorous to me.
Is this the first video that you didn’t make any coffee?? I think you need some coffee!!! ❤❤❤ blessings to you!!
I did make coffee
4:17
Thanks for sharing. Best wishes and safe travels.
- and THANK YOU so much for this video. It is so honest and straight forward: what's not to like 😊
Safe travels and enjoy your walks & coffey.
Greetings from Denmark
I consider myself fortunate in that my PMC has no issues with the engine and transmission. I have over 110,000 miles on it, and this fall will require some $$ in maintenance.
Congrats on 8 years!
:) WELL DONE and Kudos for sharing and doing what you do and share! Appreciate the HONESTY and Realities for you 8 years of Van Life ! :) ALL the BEST and Cheers! :)
Awesome guy. Stay safe.. 🙏🏽🙏🏽 4 continuous clear headed decisions, love ur videos, thnxs 4 sharing!
Happy Anniversary! Love your channel.
Thank you
Nice video. Happy travels:)
awesome vid, awesome van. happy 8 year anniversary.
Thanks dude
Excellent story, well told. Thanks!