I am a senior and live in a 5th wheel in an RV park. I have a large dog. Luckily I have a small patio and room for a few plants on my space. I live on about $1,200 a month. I don't eat out, go to movies, drink alcohol or take drugs, etc. My food is about $200 a month. My largest expense is lot rent with utilities. No car payment and little personal expenses. All in all, I am fortunate to be able to live comfortably enough on a fixed income. I live in northern Calif in a very rural area on the banks of a large lake. There are a lot of people in worse situations than me, so I can't complain.
Horrible, right?! Work all your life and have to cut out having any entertainment or fun because you can’t afford it!! Craziness. Yeah sure some are worse off but have they worked their entire lives. I get tired of hearing “I’m struggling but others are worse” as if it’s ok that we are struggling just not as bad!!! 🙄
@@thesun-N-moon8885 I hear you. I just feel that I can't spend what is left of my life being angry. I have alot in my life to be grateful for...my sons, grandchildren, good friends, living in a beautiful area, and more. Yes, I worked hard for 50 years, but I choose to be happy for what I have, rather than unhappy for what I don't.
@galerae947 that's awsome and good thing u kno how to budget your money well I live in northern california as well I wanna live.off grid any tips for this newbie?
@raycardona4284 Don't eat in restaurants. 😁 Try to grow some basics like tomatoes, squash, patio fruit trees, etc. Staying home saves fuel in your vehicle and reduces urges to spend money. Stay away from watching TV hours at a time and get out in nature for mental health and to remind you what we have to be grateful for. I live simply, but am happy without all the clutter of the unimportant that weighs us down. Reach out to others for encouragement when you feel yourself drifting off course.
People think my husband and I are weird , we have no computer, no tv programming, no dishwasher, no clothes dryer. I hang clothes in doorways, over the doors and on an old wooden drying rack $4 at Goodwill and a smaller rack found on the side of the road. We don't take vacations, go to concerts or eat at fancy restaurants .We both enjoy cooking and I eat mostly whole food plant based.We enjoy watching tv shows with an antenna and going for rides in the country with our rescue dog. She is a female Jack Russell Terrior tripod.
Fellow Canadian here. While budgeting and living below your means is important some of our frustrations in this country are as a result of what is happening in Ottawa. Next year is an election year, keep that in mind.
Kudos to you. You’re gainfully employed, debt free, careful with your money, and planning for retirement. Those attributes put you well ahead, despite the high prices and paying exorbitant amounts of taxes here in Canada. Well done young lady 👍
Pets are so expensive, but so vital. I 🩷 to see people like you, who truly love their fur babies. Hope your furry roomies (bosses) bring you joy for years to come.
I have watched all of your videos, the common denominator is your down to earth approach to everything. Whether it be a project, fishing, out on your scooter or whatever it may be. Your down to earth, demeanor, wit and talent is why I’m such a big fan. We need more people that think as you do. These are some crazy difficult times and we all need frugal methods and need to be aware of what is actually going on. Sometimes it’s hard to see what is directly in front of us. You are on the right path, my friend. You will do well in the long run.
A vote for Trump will help America would you be willing to help your fellow man or would people be voting in the other direction and starve children?Democrats are definitely not what they once was!
I think you are an inspiration. Good job Jenna. Not everyone could do what you do. We are full time Rv living on a permanent spot and we moved from expensive Dallas to the state of Arkansas in the mountains. Love it. You helped. I got your storage building like yours. I told hubby about your channel.❤
Jenna I think you have a wonderful life and a fantastic set-up. I'm a Scottish guy living on the Greek island of Rhodes. 4 years ago, I met this English couple who did what you are doing, they bought a field, put a caravan on it (a 9 meter caravan, or trailer as you would say), they have their own little world. they put a pergola over the caravan, they have a shipping container as a shed (which is lockable) and they, and you, have given me the inspiration to do it too. One day if I start my own TH-cam channel, you'll get my full credit for giving me the motivation to do it. By the way, my cat Brian costs me 50 euros a month. Little fecker.
Wow your total cost is high. I live minalist. I live on 1,056 acres month. Food cost 200 a month. Electric cost the most. Pay water. I can’t afford to run my central air. Just a fan. Don’t have cable. Just Antolog atenna tv but bearly watch it. I have no pets but really want a dog but I know I can’t afford it.
I learned one thing in life. You work hard, you play hard. I work to have a living and to have fun. Fun can be free or you pay for it. I have had a blast thru life, I've been creative, responsable, foolish and everything in between. Jenna, thank you for educating and being open about your spending so others may learn from you. Don't ever apologize or explain yourself, folks will judge you from the first time they meet you until they pick to welcome you or see you as different. I think 99% of folks know you as a sinceer, helpful, honest and likeable person, the other 1% no one will ever satisfy. I would be honored to have you as a neighbor because you are a caring, good person that I could depend on. Keep having those beers, love you cats and those you care for, travel, fish, take a few tokes if you wish and keep giving us these quality videos. You are loved, and I know you love most of us. We all want a better world and you have a jump on it.
I occasionally watch and enjoy your videos - I like your kind of uniqueness. Your $2,220 in Canadian dollars is about $1,614 in USD, not bad at all. Food and personal care is also usually my #1 monthly expense. When you are living on the down low, on a modest income - I think that tracking expenses is essential. Most people probably only need 8 to 10 line item categories. Its always interesting to see and compare how other people spend/budget their money. My categories are: 1) fixed variable monthly - these are my utilities phone internet gas water electricity, accident and life insurance 2) Eat out. I'm a single senior and I usually go out for either lunch or dinner - I like to get out of the house, I eat economy deals, I know where all the bargains are, and I take advantage of gift card discounts etc. 3) home food, this is all the food or beverages that I eat at home, I'm not really a beer or alcohol drinker or that much in sugared drinks 4) not food. These are all the cleaning and household supplies, personal care, shoes and clothing 5) car. Everything to keep a car, oil, tires, insurance, repairs. All my cars are paid for and I do almost all my own maintenance and repairs 6) Gas. I track this separately, no good reason. 7) Work, anything job related. 8) House. Anything home related, includes property taxes, gas for mowers and power equipment, furniture and decor. My house is paid in full, this category is a running total. In the nine years so far it is just under $59k for absolutely everything. My house is a rurally located 864 sq. ft. 2 bed 1 bath prairie ranch style with a 624 sq. ft. attached shop/garage all on a 1/3 acre. A regular month for me is ~ $1,300 to $1,400 USD, with some wild spikes for home remodeling projects.
And you own your home and think paying out 1,400 a month isn’t bad?! Imagine those who are paying a mortgage of 1800 to 2400 or rent of the same. Of course they should buy, right? Yet you get refused a loan because of debt to income but one is still paying more to rent… 😂
@@thesun-N-moon8885 I was just sharing some of my details. I don't know if my $1,400 USD is good or bad for a single senior, its not a bunch different than her expenses. I'm sorry if you are getting turned down for a loan. If you really want to stay in your current area I guess your only chance is to find a better paying job if possible. I was not living in my current city when I bought my house - I moved here for the low priced houses. I live in a small town outside of Lubbock Texas where there are always at least a couple of houses for sale in the five digits ($20k to $90k). I don't think my house is worth more than what I have into it - all the low priced houses are defective in some way. So when you spend money on them you increase their value by making them less defective. Best wishes.
@@thesun-N-moon8885 I was just sharing my expenses, I don't know if they are good or not - Jenna's expenses are not bunches more than mine and she is paying for pets that I am not. I'm sorry if you were refused a home loan. The only thing I can think of is for you to find a higher paying job if possible? Or you can do what I did: I moved into my small town specifically for low priced rural houses. I still regularly see houses in the $20k to $90k range locally. Just like my house all the low priced ones are defective in some way. I don't think my house would sell for any more than my current total - all my fixes are less of an investment and have just made it less defective. I'm not moving so I don't care. Up until last month I was working locally, but for the most part these low cost towns have a small job base. In two months I will be driving 23 each way miles for work, not too bad really.
Nice breakdown, and you are doing really well on expenses. I live in CA, US and for me it's about $600 more than you. Do you have to pay for health insurance? And I don't ever eat out any more.
Great break down Jenna ! I am 100% off grid 40km from town have two cats & a dog always building something needing screws or other little things & I live on $1900 a month every month, If it's something big you need then you have to save for a few months :) I garden and hunt so I have a lot of my own food & I get by pretty good 😊If you have seen little griff off grid you know I always have something on the go :)
I live in Alabama and my rent is $1,600 a month…power bill is $175 this month (100F degrees outside today…so much for that number). Our kids are grown and it’s me my wife and our two fur kitties. Groceries (and all other stuff you mentioned) at Walmart cost us about $225 a week. Our car is paid for and we have no other debt. All that to say…. your monthly expenses are probably in the 90% range of all of us in your and my situation. This world is EXPENSIVE! I’m 57 and we have four daughters around your age. All young people need to learn to live frugal! You still have a good life and stay out of debt at the same time. Love your videos!
Thank you for showing us the reality of living a sensible budget. I agree, it is an eye- opener to keep receipts and total them, especially if you do this over an extended time....most people have no idea how much they actually are spending each and every month. Excellent job !!
I totally agree with you. It’s very hard to budget today. Prices increase daily. I also live debt free. I am shocked at my monthly expenses. I live a simple life too.
We've been watching your videos since you started. Thanks for the valuable information you've shared! We're on the same path as you but not quite there yet. Purchased our land in Cape Breton just under 2 years ago. Hoping to be living on it off grid very soon. We switched to wood pellets for our cats a while back. It smells way better, and costs much less than litter. And the cats don't track litter throughout the house. We stock up at the end of the season for the summer.
Great video and good for you showing the benefit of budgeting. I recently saw an article where people had no idea what was coming in or going out or even what budget was. Teaching life skills is sadly lacking in schools and families.
Jenna you are a fresh breath of life. Remember to not give up some fun and enjoyment when you can like the occasional beer, etc. What you are doing, i.e. tracking your expenses, is fantastic but your total for the month surprised me as well as some others (considering you have no rent or mortgage and prop. tax). I can only surmise that in subsequent months your expense would be much lower. Anyway you're on the right track. Look after yourself. A Canadian viewer.
It's truly a world of rates, fares, tariffs, fees, costs, taxes, levies, outlays, charges, fines, setbacks, amounts, expenditures, tabs, tolls, etc. etc.
Good video Jenna. I have in been surprised that my expanses for food or one stop shopping at Walmart runs number one or two. I just buy simple foods that can be prepared at home, cleaning supplies and basics. Thank you for your honest report. Take care.
We all just need to accept the thing that prices for everything will never go down in price, only up,, the Government and the stores won’t be happy until we are all home, hungry, with minimal existence, though a lot live like this right now, sad isn’t it 😢
Wow, that's still expensive! I live in Belgium, work part-time and I earn about $1000 a month. That covers all my costs, including renovations (on a shoestring). I fully own a small house that I bought 3 years ago, I live on my own, have a car, but no kids or pets and have no debt. I manage, but I dread the day my car will break down completely. I guess I will have to buy a scooter when that happens. Well done, Jenna!
I enjoy watching your videos you live a life much like mine these days. I used to be a work camper traveling the country in my 24 ft Ford Shasta with a 50cc in tow but now I'm in one spot (on my youngest daughters property) due to health issues from my back fusion. At 61 years old I thought I knew all I needed to know about rv living but I don't lol... Now I have a 2011 5th wheel and it's hooked up to 30 amp but I really want to learn more about solar you make it look so easy. Anyway thanks for sharing your RV living looking forward to the next one...
Really enjoy your content. You've accomplished alot by becoming debt free. I'm $176.00 away from being able to say the same. My husband and I are empty nesters and have rented for the last 28 yrs. We've purchased a fifth wheel and will be moving into it within a few weeks. I was never happy with renting but allowed hubby to steer our life...until now. Your channel was one of the deciding factors that convinced me that it is possible to do this and finally get ahead. Thank you for always being transparent with the day to day life of full time stationary rv living. We will be on my mothers property, very small electric bill, no water bill, no rent, no mortgage, cars are paid for. Thank you again, I feel so blessed to have found your channel. Here's to debt free living on our own terms!!! 🍸🍹
That's amazing!! 👏 I am going to congratulate you early because you are SO CLOSE! debt free is right around the corner for you and you will 100% feel that Weight get lifted! Happy for you!
Everytime I read of someone that sacrificed and made their goal I get a little emotional because then I know a door has opened for them that could be life changing! Please let Jenna know a year down the line what new has happened in your lives if you wish. So happy for you!
Wow that's expensive. I'm spending about USD 1.000 on average living in Barcelona, Spain. Living debt free, with quite new condo and vehicles, so no maintenance and no pets.
New subscriber, the algorithm brought me. So big brother is good for something. Has been suggesting videos that I actually like. I really enjoyed your video. Just a real person doing it off grid, debt free. Not some flashy bs. Thank you for uploading. Respectfully, Crusty Kirk
30 years of being a Plumber, #9 Fun Fund is also #8 Medications and supplements. That’s just how it is. I only need to find the annual total so I can claim it as Medical expenses seeing how they won’t let me claim my liver as a Dependent. lol…. In all honesty though, living has definitely become rather expensive since the Covid freak out. I truly believe keeping things simple is the way to go. (If you can handle it). Another nice vid, Gypsy J. Have a great weekend!
I am also am in Canada. I have saw your videos before . Really enjoyed this video and also can’t imagine how families with children and mortgages are surviving . I think your set up is awesome .
Good video... Just like what you said, this one was really an eye opener. Thanks for all the hard work you put in to create interesting and fun videos for all of us on your channel. It's definitely become one of my "Must See TV", woops I mean "Must See YT" channels. Love and peace to you, oh and your fur babies too!
Jenna, your Videos are Great !! Very informative, No BS 😊, Love Your style ❤. To me personally Thank You !! Your experience has really helped Me make good decisions. In meantime Take care and keep well be safe. Cheers 🍺🍺🇨🇦
This is a great video Jenna. We watched on the big screen when you put it out and i kept meaning to come back to comment. It's such an eye opener. A lot of people believe going off grid means no money going out. Sooo not true. Still have lots to think about. Leaving a job is not possible...at least not for us (yet). Lol. Side hustle or full time job absolutely necessary. Thanks for sharing! We love how REAL you are! ✌️🇨🇦💕
Thanks for watching! I hear ya, with the cost of everything now, it's hard no matter what! Food, gas, etc. Hopefully things get better but they usually get worse eh
Wow Jenna, this was fascinating! Thank you for taking the time to do this. And you are correct, it's going to get far worse before it gets better. Hang in there!
Same to you, T, yep! It's going to get worse! I just came from the Dollar Store and it's pretty bad when you can buy the same things at Walmart for cheaper prices. Very eye opening, scary, etc. This how people live paycheck to paycheck and anyone with rent might not be able to keep up
You are dialed in and living life, your WAY!! Without the cats, you would need special counseling and would blow your budget!! You don't have to live like a hermit....the best thing you're on track and still able to save!! Great job!!!
The food bill for the fur baby's shocked me a little. I didn't think it would be that much..but everything is high priced now. Doesn't matter what anyone else thinks about your lifestyle. Soooooo many are living in crazy dept and struggle to make it with 2 adults working. The traveling nomads have similar bills except the fuel/maintenance/fee's is crazy high compared to your stationary set up. Being debt free is huge.....so good job! Is there gonna be a big water fishing video coming this year? God Bless....stay safe
I appreciate your very real and brave video!! I have seen a utuber be that open and honest!! Most people are afraid to say how much their electric bill is!! Much, much respect!!
Hi Jenna, great video, lots of useful information. We just recently sold our condo in Key Largo, Florida and moved onto our off-grid property in southern Alabama, The condo was paid for but insurance and taxes were killing us. Our new zipcode is 2.78 acres and sits on a 800 acre spring feed private lake. For now we are living in a 28 foot camper, pretty much like yours, we did add on a screened in porch and purchased a fairly large storage shed that sits on a concrete slab and anchored down. We did have a well and septic system installed and had 6000 watts of solar installed. We use propane for cooking, hot water heater and heat for the winter months. Really thinking about installing a wood burning stove. I do have to crank up the generator to transfer water from the well to our storage tanks. The solar system keeps our battery banks full and our Bluetti AC 240 power systems, which we have 3 of them. This lifestyle is new to us and each day brings new challenges but the trade off is no mortgage, no electric, water, sewer bills. The big savings is no overpriced homeowners insurance and real estate taxes, our taxes on this property is $373 dollars a year, in Florida we were paying $11,000 a year for homeowners insurance and $6,883 in real estate taxes, big savings. Julie just transferred her job from Miami to Dothan, Alabama, she's a critical care RN nurse, she has about a 15 mile drive each day.
Jenna, You have a good head on your shoulders. You handle your life snd finances with respect, responsibility and fun with ease 👍 Someone of your caliber, knowledge, intelligence,integrity and love of life should be running for office to restore sanity👍
Everyone that works for a living should take this advice of watching where they spend their money and how much for what. This is not anything new. It’s just that parents do not teach their children how to budget. Why? Because, it’s just way too easy to be a slave to any credit loaning agency. 👍Thank you Jenna, this may save some folks heartaches in their future.🙏🏽✌🏻🇺🇸😎
Need to include monthly savings for retirement, all forms of insurance, car maintenace, dental, medical, taxes, clothes, hair. It all has to be factored in and accounted for into each month. So you have left out much expense necessary to live.
Hello hun. Hope your doing well. I really enjoyed this video. It really makes a person think. You also have given people an idea of what they would be looking at if they moved off grid or just lived a life style similar to yours. Our fur babies are expensive, but they are well worth it. I love your kitties. They have the cutest personalities. Thank you for sharing. God bless.
It is definitely important for all people to evaluate our monthly/annual expenses and budget as needed. This is how I stay debt free also. Thanks for making these and rock on! 🤘🍻
You're doing very well and don't let anyone tell you otherwise. My food and pet expenses are very similar. I'm retired so the absolute biggest expense is health insurance. I'm making it so far but I can see the writing on the wall. Good luck everyone.
It doesn’t look like much I know. The important thing is it’s yours. And you have it. As far as I can see you are very good at what you’re doing and you love it. That’s all that really matters. Carry on Gypsy. Ok I’m thinking you should start eating those fish you been catching Jenna. Maybe a small garden too. Also why aren’t the cats doing their business outside?
Hi Jenna from Holland. I live like you in a gipsy wagon all recyceld have 2 ponys 2 chickens and one cat. Love very minimal...have my own well....and compost toilet. I have old age pension...a car as i live 3 km from the village. Life is expensive. Yet i can save some money every month, got return taxpay and save my hollidaypayment. No debts, which i am so happy with... My monthly foodcosts are lower than yours as i eat very simple.. but overall jou and i life the life in freedom. I pay a little rent for the ground i live on and that is 2000m2...i have my stable build there myself...oh what you can do with pallets!!! So yes tis a lot of money but i love my place and the fact of a small footprint. Also no depts... Jou are a topper girl❤❤🎉
Great vid Jenna just thinking ahead to next year when all will cost more, Start looking at spots around your property for a garden maybe next year justplant some potatoes for starters. If you can get a winters worth why not.
Moral of the story...you're a girl doing the best she can. Glad you've got dental, i'm going thru a deep cleaning procedure that requires 4 visits. Cost to my insurance: $700.00. Cost without insurance: $1054.00. 67 year old teeth that i didn't take care of in my youth. Pretty sure i don't have to tell you this but take care of those chompers!
Most definitely! My dental is 70% covered so even when I had a $1000 gum graft I had to fork over $300 and that was just one tooth! Lol. Nothing is cheap eh. Good luck with those chompers!
This is a very good video. You're always providing up front and practical info. I've really been paying attention to your work here for a couple of years and I'm trying to get to your level. !! Dog food!! can you believe how expensive the good stuff is now days!! (However that will NEVER be eliminated). I think my next step might be a green house/garden to off-set some of the ridiculous (and tasteless ) food which seems to be all they sell now. Keep up the good work
Sadly I agree with you - corporate greed is financially killing hard working people. Going grocery shopping esp. difficult and demoralizing. I just feel so RIPPED OFF. BTW ♥️ watching you - sending you blessings
It’s refreshing to see one succeed as well as you have. It’s almost impossible for a single person to make it on their own,great model for young people to live up to ❤️
Hey jenna, thank you thats an eye opener! I try not to add it up cause its to scarry, the price of everything is unreal any more, wish we could at least just level out instead of this constant up and up and up cycle i truly believe especially where im at ,a bunch of that is greed, anything i buy in this town ,(which i hate to admit is myhometown) i can go 40 miles down the road and get it for half of what it is here. And that is consistant, when the prices skyrocketed during pandemic these folks got used to the inflated prices and refuse to come down to where the rest of the world is. Its unreal every store here is doing some kind of switcharoonie on advertised prices in the store, one store has no prices on the shelfs i guess so they can adjust accordingly at the register, im basicly trying to boycott this town but still once in a while get caught up in th3yre bullshit because of convieniants thanks for the great vid and hang in there!❤❤
That sounds awful and the no prices things leaves you with a guessing game. Also scary. I would definitely venture out a little further maybe biweekly for those cheaper prices for sure!
Also much inflation here in Europe (Belgium). As a single male my food bill is around 250 euro per month. Going out (having a drink somewhere) I manage with 50 euro a month in general. I think you can cut back on food and supplements, if you eat healthy you don't need many supplements (it's also a business...) I have an old car and rent a nice apartment around Antwerp and think I can do with around 1500 euro per month. As you may know our medical system is top notch and when you end up in hospital you will not be ruined like in the States. Anyway, great video and indeed it seems that everything has gone up in price since Covid days, not even mentioning the ridiculous prices of new cars (at least here in Europe). God bless!
This is how I live except I do have electricty. You didn't include what your property tax is per year devided x 12. It sure is nice having your home and land paid for !!!
I live in Texas, and the most expense is the mortgage it runs around 1800 per month. The health insurance which about 450 per month. Food, we have our own backyard that we have food forest and grow our own vegetables, and thus the groessery is around $450 for the 3 people. Utilties are a little pricy, electricity around the summer month is around $180, gas $40, water bill $75, and internet $150. Car gas is around $120. And, sometime we eat out once or twice per month around $100 and other expense like $50. We spend about $3500.
Everyone should do this kind of financial analysis regularly just to keep in touch with the reality of where your money is going. I categorize things a bit differently. The first thing is what I call "human consumables" those things which you need in day-to-day life regardless of where you live which will in time disappear. Food, toiletries, vitamins and meds, clothing, and so forth. Next I do "living necessities" which includes rents, utility bills, phone*, internet*, and non-car insurances. Vehicle costs come next including everything it takes to keep it on the road except fuel*. For me, being self-employed fuel falls almost completely under "business expenses" as most of my shopping and visiting happens along the way of a route needed for business. My phone, internet, and vehicle expenses are under "business expenses" as it's a business necessity when you're self employed, but not as much if you work for someone else. Then there's shelter expense; the cost of having a home of some kind and in maintaining it. Pet expenses will come back when I get another doggie (which I hope is soon!) I have had to make an art of living cheaply in recent times due to aging and health problems. Not many people have the situation which I do which allows me to do it as cheaply as I do, and a lot of it was only possible coming as very deeply appreciated help from friends and medical care for the indigent (also much appreciated). What most people spend on food alone is about the same as what I live on in total. I'm relatively happy this way and I have lived through worse times which lets me appreciate what I have now instead of feeling bad because of what I don't have. Happiness is free but sadness always has a cost. Be happy because things could always be worse.
pretty sobering cost of living these days. and sadly, average Joe folks thinking they will be able to retire contributing 15% to their 401k retirement fund are in for a rude surprise. we haven’t seen anything yet when it comes to the dollar breaking down and being inflated away.
I live in Toronto. A couple members of my family have weekend trailers, I have always been intrigued by off grid/trailer living, etc. This video, unlike others that only show the positives, was a reality check. I am really not a big budgeter, but after taxes I pull in about $5,000/month and I pretty consistently save about $1,000/month. So I guess my monthly expenses are about $4,000/month. With that thought I get a much bigger/secure living space, reliable on demand electricity, water, gas, internet and cell service, everything is local and more/better employment opportunities. Thanks for the honest video, I think I am going to stay content right where I am.
Being able to waste 4,000 a month could probably provide you with a better off grid system! Over the next few years your 4,000 will be 6,000 at the current economy for the US!
When President Trump was in White House we get to travel and eat out, now bidenomics, we don’t! We can hardly afford to go out eat! So with that being said we got sick as well with stress and depression cuz we both retire living on fixed income now. If we knew this is what Obama was going to do I would have save some for the future instead of spending. Thanks for sharing
You shock me, really enjoy everything your about , .been do nomad 75% looking at a piece of property now as a 2nd home stead ..cheers girl i like your style , Ty 🎉🎉
Great to see you I just Been back to the pet shop in the UK to get dogfood and I could not believe how much it’s gone up. I had stocked up on dogfood that was when it was cheap. It’s definitely going up everything nowadays. Take care😊
Wow, that’s a lot more than what I was expecting for you to be spending. Here in America I could probably cut those down quite a bit only for the fact is when I do alone and have a tiny house. I plan on having it on a small plot of land being as much off the greatest as humanly possible, but I don’t have the expense of a vehicle or high expenses of maintenance for Chihuahuas. Do the fact that I’m blind, I do have my groceries 99.9% of the time delivered to my house and it only cost me $14 a month for Walmart delivery which is so convenient and helpful for me! I really go anywhere except for if I need to go to the vet or take my children currently at this time to doctor appointments, but once the children are out of the house and I downsize to a tiny house I won’t have that means of need for transportation other than taking my pets to the vet! Hoping they have an outside garden where I can grow mainly most of my fruits and some veggies to cut back on cost and meal prep as cheaply as possible! Love that you did this sorry that the cost in Canada is so high. It’s super crazy but I’m also glad that you take very well care of your animals 12:09 .
The old saying , it all adds up quickly ! I’m afraid to add things up 😂 Gas especially probably 800 $ ish a month and that’s just the one car.. not propane or lawnmower.. I’m already 20L in this year cutting the grass with out trimming or chainsaw or log splitter ) fuel to get firewood out of the bush ! Let alone all the beer to keep hydrated doing so 😂
You are on the right track! Most people don't ever calculate all their expenditures for the month. If they did, they might be better at controlling their spending. Putting money aside will pay off big for you. Having no credit card debt, or rent, or mortgage, will all pay BIG in the end. I did something similar to what you are doing, and it took a long time to see all the benefits, but now at 70 I can see how it all paid off.
Jenna I'm so glad i watched this during lunch because every time you cook it make's me hungry hahaha. Back 15 years ago i had my wife and i go through this. It change our lives completely As you, we live debt free every month now. The power of really being able to control your spending is a game changer. We have gotten our kids doing this and 3 of them, they are debt free at ages of 29-31-42 all owns nice homes. But by doing this and it was really hard for them for few years. But now they take trip on the cash they have saved. This was a really good video people can do it if they just do what you did on that paper. NOW when you were going down that list you had me worried because you didn't say anything about some Cold snacks 🍺🥃 and then you said it i was smiling say there she is. lol. great video again and it was good to see you again. be safe.
Thanks Tony and it's definitely a great way to break down where money goes out. It allows one to focus on spending less in each expense category and maybe even eliminate a couple altogether...but not the beer fund! Nope! Haha 🍻
Thank you for this video! I have recently bought a trailer similar to yours and gave my notice to my landlord…. No more paying $1600 a month for rent!!! About a year ago I sold my house and paid off all of my debt as well. With that being said, I bought the camping trailer on my credit card but it was fairly cheap…. So when I get that paid off I will again be debt free!!! I am also in Canada and I’m a little scared for the winter in a camper but I’m also excited!!!!!!
Dear Ms. Jenna You are Amazing!! Down to Earth, lot's of Common sense, living a real life is scary these days. The reason You listed is same conclusion l came to because I feel You enjoy life more !! Take good care. PS I would start catching Fish and Rorry & Ramsey would be on Seafood diet 😊. Take good care. Great Videos but You make them Great !!! 😘
You have inspired me to do the same. I record all my spendings so I just have to categorize them. I own my home in Florida, USA so no mortgage & I pay off my credit card each month. I use the credit card so I don't carry much cash. I pay utilities which includes electric bill & water bill. I pay insurance on home and car. I'm retired on a fixed income and get a small pension for teaching in 20:12 Florida for 17 years. Taxes are high property, Federal income tax, sales tax is 7 percent, no state tax in Florida which is a plus. I do have a dog, Zebedee a small Chiweenie. Chihuahua Dachshund mix. Food & treats for him. Heartworm pill monthly & Flea & tick pill every 3 months. Like you, not a shopper and drive a 2016 Honda Fit. Gets 35 mpg. Don't drive much. Do travel far once a year, France in May, last year Great Britain. When I owned my RV motor home traveled to 49 states. Went to Prince Edward Island stopping in Nova Scotia & others provinces on the way. Drove to Alaska going through Canada - Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia, & Yukon on the way to Fairbanks, Alaska.
I use pine wood pellets for kitty litter but my cat prefers to go potty outside almost 100% so a big bag of wood pellets has been sitting in my garage for 3 years.
Thanks GJ. Watched all the way to the out takes. Canada and US are not cheap. It's not possible to exist without money here. I was surprised by the $ amount, even in US $ it is expensive. Maybe your next project could be a cat treadmill. Have them produce electricity, hook up the treadmill to a generator that charges the batteries. Just make sure to change the catnip often so they won't quit too soon.
Haha, good idea. I definitely need to do something because the cost is outrageous. Then again, the price of everything is up so in some cases, there is no avoiding it unfortunately
@@gypsyjenna I retired from full time work in 2005. Had enough years to get a full pension. That pension is the same as it was 19 years ago. Things are a bit more expensive now than they were then. Penny pinching has been my way to get by for many years. Nickle pinching in Canada. 😗
You've inspired me again Jenna ... Hubby and I will do an expense breakdown for July (we haven't kept receipts or anything so far for the month of June) ... I think it will be illuminating!
You are the only one i have seen that lives in a R.V that i can relate to. You make it make sense. The other videos i have seen they should just rent to own a home or something. They're expensive makes absolutely no common sense😂. Thanks for being simple and honest.
I have a 2008 matrix. Yes replaced the frontend amongst other parts. However, in my opinion, its still one of the best cars ever. Always starts and goes. And it can haul so much. If you put the back seat down, you can carry so many offgrid homestead materials, such as lumber like 2x6x8 ft pieces and plywood cut 2x8ft. No joke. Hands down the best!
you should do this in each season. summertime and winter. i am in south arizona and my winter time expenses are way different than summer. winter is cheaper because in the summer i need to run my ac like 18 hours a day. in yer case you need to buy diesel for your diesel heater. seasons due change your expenses depending on where you live.
I've heard that everything is expensive in Canada.....but Crikey girl, some of those expenses seem excessive. I'm an old codger now, but I would of loved to have met someone like you 40 years ago. Glad I ran across your channel. As always, Thumbs up!😎👍
I live off grid in Western Australia. I'm debt free and own my property so I don't pay rent. By the time I pay for food, mobile phone (cell phone), internet, fuel to get to work, vehicle registration, insurances and shire rates (property tax) it cost me around $450 a week for the basics. Then extra costs if I need to buy something for my property or fix a breakdown. Some people think that living off grid is free and expect to see us living without money. They get disappointed when they hear that living off grid is a lifestyle choice with most of the expenses of the real world. But still, I love the off grid lifestyle and wouldn't change it for anything 👍
Fellow Canadian here, and thanks for your videos ❤... I just wanna say I can't believe you did this video without mentioning how the cost of living in Canada is INSANE now. I know you don't pay rent, but if NS is anything like Ontario.... groceries are high, gas is high...pretty much everything is unbelievably high. $2200 a month isn't bad at all! I pay 1700 for a "2" bedroom apartment.... but, I do understand how it can be shocking how living in the woods can still cost you $2200 🤯 .. maybe consider gardening, fermenting, canning etc. So u can save on groceries. Anyway, thanks again for your videos !
I am a senior and live in a 5th wheel in an RV park. I have a large dog. Luckily I have a small patio and room for a few plants on my space. I live on about $1,200 a month. I don't eat out, go to movies, drink alcohol or take drugs, etc. My food is about $200 a month. My largest expense is lot rent with utilities. No car payment and little personal expenses. All in all, I am fortunate to be able to live comfortably enough on a fixed income. I live in northern Calif in a very rural area on the banks of a large lake. There are a lot of people in worse situations than me, so I can't complain.
Horrible, right?! Work all your life and have to cut out having any entertainment or fun because you can’t afford it!! Craziness. Yeah sure some are worse off but have they worked their entire lives. I get tired of hearing “I’m struggling but others are worse” as if it’s ok that we are struggling just not as bad!!! 🙄
@@thesun-N-moon8885 I hear you. I just feel that I can't spend what is left of my life being angry. I have alot in my life to be grateful for...my sons, grandchildren, good friends, living in a beautiful area, and more. Yes, I worked hard for 50 years, but I choose to be happy for what I have, rather than unhappy for what I don't.
Banks of a large lake? Wow, that sounds ideal. Best of luck
@galerae947 that's awsome and good thing u kno how to budget your money well I live in northern california as well I wanna live.off grid any tips for this newbie?
@raycardona4284 Don't eat in restaurants. 😁 Try to grow some basics like tomatoes, squash, patio fruit trees, etc. Staying home saves fuel in your vehicle and reduces urges to spend money. Stay away from watching TV hours at a time and get out in nature for mental health and to remind you what we have to be grateful for. I live simply, but am happy without all the clutter of the unimportant that weighs us down. Reach out to others for encouragement when you feel yourself drifting off course.
People think my husband and I are weird , we have no computer, no tv programming, no dishwasher, no clothes dryer. I hang clothes in doorways, over the doors and on an old wooden drying rack $4 at Goodwill and a smaller rack found on the side of the road. We don't take vacations, go to concerts or eat at fancy restaurants .We both enjoy cooking and I eat mostly whole food plant based.We enjoy watching tv shows with an antenna and going for rides in the country with our rescue dog. She is a female Jack Russell Terrior tripod.
That is the way to go. Why spend money unnecessarily in a world where the economy is going crazy when there are more important ways to use it?
I did all of that I’m over spending unnecessary money
I think your smart 👍🏻
Thats a a practical lovely life❤
Thank-you🥰
Fellow Canadian here. While budgeting and living below your means is important some of our frustrations in this country are as a result of what is happening in Ottawa. Next year is an election year, keep that in mind.
Kudos to you.
You’re gainfully employed, debt free, careful with your money, and planning for retirement.
Those attributes put you well ahead, despite the high prices and paying exorbitant amounts of taxes here in Canada.
Well done young lady 👍
Pets are so expensive, but so vital. I 🩷 to see people like you, who truly love their fur babies. Hope your furry roomies (bosses) bring you joy for years to come.
SO TRUE !
I have watched all of your videos, the common denominator is your down to earth approach to everything. Whether it be a project, fishing, out on your scooter or whatever it may be. Your down to earth, demeanor, wit and talent is why I’m such a big fan. We need more people that think as you do. These are some crazy difficult times and we all need frugal methods and need to be aware of what is actually going on. Sometimes it’s hard to see what is directly in front of us. You are on the right path, my friend. You will do well in the long run.
Thank you so much, I appreciate it 💓
@@gypsyjenna You are good people. I know them when I see them.
@chrisbroughton8823 thank you so much, best compliment all day 👍
A vote for Trump will help America would you be willing to help your fellow man or would people be voting in the other direction and starve children?Democrats are definitely not what they once was!
I think you are an inspiration. Good job Jenna. Not everyone could do what you do. We are full time Rv living on a permanent spot and we moved from expensive Dallas to the state of Arkansas in the mountains. Love it. You helped. I got your storage building like yours. I told hubby about your channel.❤
Awee thanks so much, love hearing stories like this! 💓
Arkansas seems pretty rural and wild. But it's not the desert. And no hurricanes and less tornados.
Jenna I think you have a wonderful life and a fantastic set-up. I'm a Scottish guy living on the Greek island of Rhodes. 4 years ago, I met this English couple who did what you are doing, they bought a field, put a caravan on it (a 9 meter caravan, or trailer as you would say), they have their own little world. they put a pergola over the caravan, they have a shipping container as a shed (which is lockable) and they, and you, have given me the inspiration to do it too. One day if I start my own TH-cam channel, you'll get my full credit for giving me the motivation to do it. By the way, my cat Brian costs me 50 euros a month. Little fecker.
Awee, Brian is an expensive roomie too! I am glad you found some inspiration and you let me know when you start that channel! 🙂
Jenna, Great video! As being retired know how the cost has gone up. Your smart and have full control of your life.
Thanks John, you're right. Cost has, and will continue to, go up!
Wow your total cost is high. I live minalist. I live on 1,056 acres month. Food cost 200 a month. Electric cost the most. Pay water. I can’t afford to run my central air. Just a fan. Don’t have cable. Just Antolog atenna tv but bearly watch it. I have no pets but really want a dog but I know I can’t afford it.
I learned one thing in life. You work hard, you play hard. I work to have a living and to have fun. Fun can be free or you pay for it. I have had a blast thru life, I've been creative, responsable, foolish and everything in between. Jenna, thank you for educating and being open about your spending so others may learn from you. Don't ever apologize or explain yourself, folks will judge you from the first time they meet you until they pick to welcome you or see you as different. I think 99% of folks know you as a sinceer, helpful, honest and likeable person, the other 1% no one will ever satisfy. I would be honored to have you as a neighbor because you are a caring, good person that I could depend on. Keep having those beers, love you cats and those you care for, travel, fish, take a few tokes if you wish and keep giving us these quality videos. You are loved, and I know you love most of us. We all want a better world and you have a jump on it.
Thanks so much, I feel the love from this comment! I really appreciate it! 💓
I occasionally watch and enjoy your videos - I like your kind of uniqueness. Your $2,220 in Canadian dollars is about $1,614 in USD, not bad at all. Food and personal care is also usually my #1 monthly expense. When you are living on the down low, on a modest income - I think that tracking expenses is essential. Most people probably only need 8 to 10 line item categories. Its always interesting to see and compare how other people spend/budget their money. My categories are: 1) fixed variable monthly - these are my utilities phone internet gas water electricity, accident and life insurance 2) Eat out. I'm a single senior and I usually go out for either lunch or dinner - I like to get out of the house, I eat economy deals, I know where all the bargains are, and I take advantage of gift card discounts etc. 3) home food, this is all the food or beverages that I eat at home, I'm not really a beer or alcohol drinker or that much in sugared drinks 4) not food. These are all the cleaning and household supplies, personal care, shoes and clothing 5) car. Everything to keep a car, oil, tires, insurance, repairs. All my cars are paid for and I do almost all my own maintenance and repairs 6) Gas. I track this separately, no good reason. 7) Work, anything job related. 8) House. Anything home related, includes property taxes, gas for mowers and power equipment, furniture and decor. My house is paid in full, this category is a running total. In the nine years so far it is just under $59k for absolutely everything. My house is a rurally located 864 sq. ft. 2 bed 1 bath prairie ranch style with a 624 sq. ft. attached shop/garage all on a 1/3 acre. A regular month for me is ~ $1,300 to $1,400 USD, with some wild spikes for home remodeling projects.
And you own your home and think paying out 1,400 a month isn’t bad?! Imagine those who are paying a mortgage of 1800 to 2400 or rent of the same. Of course they should buy, right? Yet you get refused a loan because of debt to income but one is still paying more to rent… 😂
@@thesun-N-moon8885 I was just sharing some of my details. I don't know if my $1,400 USD is good or bad for a single senior, its not a bunch different than her expenses. I'm sorry if you are getting turned down for a loan. If you really want to stay in your current area I guess your only chance is to find a better paying job if possible. I was not living in my current city when I bought my house - I moved here for the low priced houses. I live in a small town outside of Lubbock Texas where there are always at least a couple of houses for sale in the five digits ($20k to $90k). I don't think my house is worth more than what I have into it - all the low priced houses are defective in some way. So when you spend money on them you increase their value by making them less defective. Best wishes.
I expected that. I still think I can do it
@@thesun-N-moon8885 I was just sharing my expenses, I don't know if they are good or not - Jenna's expenses are not bunches more than mine and she is paying for pets that I am not. I'm sorry if you were refused a home loan. The only thing I can think of is for you to find a higher paying job if possible? Or you can do what I did: I moved into my small town specifically for low priced rural houses. I still regularly see houses in the $20k to $90k range locally. Just like my house all the low priced ones are defective in some way. I don't think my house would sell for any more than my current total - all my fixes are less of an investment and have just made it less defective. I'm not moving so I don't care. Up until last month I was working locally, but for the most part these low cost towns have a small job base. In two months I will be driving 23 each way miles for work, not too bad really.
Nice breakdown, and you are doing really well on expenses. I live in CA, US and for me it's about $600 more than you.
Do you have to pay for health insurance? And I don't ever eat out any more.
Great break down Jenna ! I am 100% off grid 40km from town have two cats & a dog always building something needing screws or other little things & I live on $1900 a month every month, If it's something big you need then you have to save for a few months :) I garden and hunt so I have a lot of my own food & I get by pretty good 😊If you have seen little griff off grid you know I always have something on the go :)
I live in Alabama and my rent is $1,600 a month…power bill is $175 this month (100F degrees outside today…so much for that number). Our kids are grown and it’s me my wife and our two fur kitties. Groceries (and all other stuff you mentioned) at Walmart cost us about $225 a week. Our car is paid for and we have no other debt.
All that to say…. your monthly expenses are probably in the 90% range of all of us in your and my situation. This world is EXPENSIVE!
I’m 57 and we have four daughters around your age. All young people need to learn to live frugal! You still have a good life and stay out of debt at the same time.
Love your videos!
Thank you 🙏
1600 a month rent in Alabama WOW things really have gotten stupid in my home country Glad I left when Idid
@@frederickmuhlbauer9477 where did you end up and how affordable is it?
@@vladimus9749 Marmaris Turkey and it’s not as inexpensive.as it used to be
I live the identical lifestyle and I love it! Thank you for your videos. Same trailer, same roof structure, etc...
Thank you for showing us the reality of living a sensible budget. I agree, it is an eye- opener to keep receipts and total them, especially if you do this over an extended time....most people have no idea how much they actually are spending each and every month. Excellent job !!
I should read my comments before hitting send. I have NEVER seen a utuber be that honest. Keep up the great content!
I totally agree with you. It’s very hard to budget today. Prices increase daily. I also live debt free. I am shocked at my monthly expenses. I live a simple life too.
It's tough, I wish it would get better but doesn't look that way, does it?
I don’t see any issues with an alcoholic beverage here and there provided it’s in moderation. Great video! 👍
We've been watching your videos since you started. Thanks for the valuable information you've shared!
We're on the same path as you but not quite there yet. Purchased our land in Cape Breton just under 2 years ago. Hoping to be living on it off grid very soon.
We switched to wood pellets for our cats a while back. It smells way better, and costs much less than litter. And the cats don't track litter throughout the house. We stock up at the end of the season for the summer.
Good idea, thanks! 🙂 best of luck with your off grid move!
It's so neat watching how effortlessly you can throw these together now.
What a pro.
Never a dull moment at the Den.
Great video and good for you showing the benefit of budgeting. I recently saw an article where people had no idea what was coming in or going out or even what budget was. Teaching life skills is sadly lacking in schools and families.
Schools need to incorporate these skills more, for sure!
Jenna you are a fresh breath of life. Remember to not give up some fun and enjoyment when you can like the occasional beer, etc. What you are doing, i.e. tracking your expenses, is fantastic but your total for the month surprised me as well as some others (considering you have no rent or mortgage and prop. tax). I can only surmise that in subsequent months your expense would be much lower.
Anyway you're on the right track. Look after yourself.
A Canadian viewer.
Thank you 😊
The “ system”is predatory no matter ur lifestyle all designed to take every penny possible from the working class ( middle class)
Definitely seems it!
Interesting and informative thanks Jenna
So damn true, it's a "no win" no matter what you do !
It's truly a world of rates, fares, tariffs, fees, costs, taxes, levies, outlays, charges, fines, setbacks, amounts, expenditures, tabs, tolls, etc. etc.
Ok, so what’s the “better” solution?
Great video Jenna...pretty much getting impossible to make ends meet...beer should never be sacrificed, lol. Take care.
Good video Jenna. I have in been surprised that my expanses for food or one stop shopping at Walmart runs number one or two. I just buy simple foods that can be prepared at home, cleaning supplies and basics. Thank you for your honest report. Take care.
Jenna, enjoy your life as you see fit and make sure you keep taking care of your roomies.
We all just need to accept the thing that prices for everything will never go down in price, only up,, the Government and the stores won’t be happy until we are all home, hungry, with minimal existence, though a lot live like this right now, sad isn’t it 😢
Wow, that's still expensive! I live in Belgium, work part-time and I earn about $1000 a month. That covers all my costs, including renovations (on a shoestring). I fully own a small house that I bought 3 years ago, I live on my own, have a car, but no kids or pets and have no debt.
I manage, but I dread the day my car will break down completely. I guess I will have to buy a scooter when that happens.
Well done, Jenna!
You only go around once. Itr is great to be dept free and you are doing a great job. Keep up the great work.
I enjoy watching your videos you live a life much like mine these days. I used to be a work camper traveling the country in my 24 ft Ford Shasta with a 50cc in tow but now I'm in one spot (on my youngest daughters property) due to health issues from my back fusion. At 61 years old I thought I knew all I needed to know about rv living but I don't lol... Now I have a 2011 5th wheel and it's hooked up to 30 amp but I really want to learn more about solar you make it look so easy. Anyway thanks for sharing your RV living looking forward to the next one...
Really enjoy your content. You've accomplished alot by becoming debt free. I'm $176.00 away from being able to say the same. My husband and I are empty nesters and have rented for the last 28 yrs. We've purchased a fifth wheel and will be moving into it within a few weeks. I was never happy with renting but allowed hubby to steer our life...until now. Your channel was one of the deciding factors that convinced me that it is possible to do this and finally get ahead. Thank you for always being transparent with the day to day life of full time stationary rv living. We will be on my mothers property, very small electric bill, no water bill, no rent, no mortgage, cars are paid for. Thank you again, I feel so blessed to have found your channel. Here's to debt free living on our own terms!!! 🍸🍹
That's amazing!! 👏 I am going to congratulate you early because you are SO CLOSE! debt free is right around the corner for you and you will 100% feel that Weight get lifted! Happy for you!
Everytime I read of someone that sacrificed and made their goal I get a little emotional because then I know a door has opened for them that could be life changing! Please let Jenna know a year down the line what new has happened in your lives if you wish. So happy for you!
Congratulations! Happy debt free to you!!!🎉
Thanks Jenna. Way more $ than I was expecting.
Same here! Ouff
That smash burger is brilliant, I'm going to make one now.
They are delish!!
It did look good, didn't it?
Yeah, all that grease soaking into that tortilla! Just a delight for your arteries, why is my cholesterol so high. I’m no health food nut but geeezz!
@@dennisrichard4480 Moderation in all things.
@@dennisrichard4480 I'll bet you're a real joy wherever you show up.
Well done! I’m envious: sitting here preparing for another day on the treadmill tomorrow, living vicariously through you.
Wow that's expensive. I'm spending about USD 1.000 on average living in Barcelona, Spain. Living debt free, with quite new condo and vehicles, so no maintenance and no pets.
New subscriber, the algorithm brought me. So big brother is good for something. Has been suggesting videos that I actually like. I really enjoyed your video. Just a real person doing it off grid, debt free. Not some flashy bs. Thank you for uploading. Respectfully, Crusty Kirk
30 years of being a Plumber, #9 Fun Fund is also #8 Medications and supplements. That’s just how it is. I only need to find the annual total so I can claim it as Medical expenses seeing how they won’t let me claim my liver as a Dependent. lol…. In all honesty though, living has definitely become rather expensive since the Covid freak out. I truly believe keeping things simple is the way to go. (If you can handle it). Another nice vid, Gypsy J. Have a great weekend!
Thanks, you too!
I am also am in Canada. I have saw your videos before . Really enjoyed this video and also can’t imagine how families with children and mortgages are surviving . I think your set up is awesome .
Thank you 😊
Pets are worth the money. I love Rory and Ramsey. One of my cats is older and is very picky. Love my cats.
Good video... Just like what you said, this one was really an eye opener. Thanks for all the hard work you put in to create interesting and fun videos for all of us on your channel. It's definitely become one of my "Must See TV", woops I mean "Must See YT" channels. Love and peace to you, oh and your fur babies too!
Thank you 🥰
Jenna, your Videos are Great !!
Very informative, No BS 😊, Love Your style ❤.
To me personally Thank You !!
Your experience has really helped Me make good decisions.
In meantime Take care and keep well be safe.
Cheers
🍺🍺🇨🇦
This is a great video Jenna. We watched on the big screen when you put it out and i kept meaning to come back to comment. It's such an eye opener. A lot of people believe going off grid means no money going out. Sooo not true. Still have lots to think about. Leaving a job is not possible...at least not for us (yet). Lol. Side hustle or full time job absolutely necessary. Thanks for sharing! We love how REAL you are! ✌️🇨🇦💕
Thanks for watching! I hear ya, with the cost of everything now, it's hard no matter what! Food, gas, etc. Hopefully things get better but they usually get worse eh
Wow Jenna, this was fascinating! Thank you for taking the time to do this. And you are correct, it's going to get far worse before it gets better. Hang in there!
Same to you, T, yep! It's going to get worse! I just came from the Dollar Store and it's pretty bad when you can buy the same things at Walmart for cheaper prices. Very eye opening, scary, etc. This how people live paycheck to paycheck and anyone with rent might not be able to keep up
Yea, DG is hella pricey these days. Prolly because of their store theft. It's so 😢. You give us hope though, so know that ❤😊.
@Agent_Starling Imma start budgeting better or try. Maybe I should make my own beer and wine again 🤔 😅
@@gypsyjennaHahahah just cut out something essential, like food to balance the costs 😂. You would REALLY hear it from the peanut gallery😅.
Could you share why you think things are going to get worse?
You are dialed in and living life, your WAY!! Without the cats, you would need special counseling and would blow your budget!! You don't have to live like a hermit....the best thing you're on track and still able to save!! Great job!!!
Thank you 😊
The food bill for the fur baby's shocked me a little. I didn't think it would be that much..but everything is high priced now. Doesn't matter what anyone else thinks about your lifestyle. Soooooo many are living in crazy dept and struggle to make it with 2 adults working. The traveling nomads have similar bills except the fuel/maintenance/fee's is crazy high compared to your stationary set up. Being debt free is huge.....so good job! Is there gonna be a big water fishing video coming this year? God Bless....stay safe
The fur baby food and litter cost shocked me too! When I did this over 5 months ago, it was less than half of that!
I appreciate your very real and brave video!! I have seen a utuber be that open and honest!! Most people are afraid to say how much their electric bill is!! Much, much respect!!
Hi Jenna👋🏻, Rory🐈⬛ and Ramsey 🐈 Thank you my friends 😊 Have a wonderful day 🌞 God Bless 🙏🏻 Appreciate you! 🫶🏻
Hi Jenna, great video, lots of useful information. We just recently sold our condo in Key Largo, Florida and moved onto our off-grid property in southern Alabama, The condo was paid for but insurance and taxes were killing us. Our new zipcode is 2.78 acres and sits on a 800 acre spring feed private lake. For now we are living in a 28 foot camper, pretty much like yours, we did add on a screened in porch and purchased a fairly large storage shed that sits on a concrete slab and anchored down. We did have a well and septic system installed and had 6000 watts of solar installed. We use propane for cooking, hot water heater and heat for the winter months. Really thinking about installing a wood burning stove. I do have to crank up the generator to transfer water from the well to our storage tanks. The solar system keeps our battery banks full and our Bluetti AC 240 power systems, which we have 3 of them. This lifestyle is new to us and each day brings new challenges but the trade off is no mortgage, no electric, water, sewer bills. The big savings is no overpriced homeowners insurance and real estate taxes, our taxes on this property is $373 dollars a year, in Florida we were paying $11,000 a year for homeowners insurance and $6,883 in real estate taxes, big savings. Julie just transferred her job from Miami to Dothan, Alabama, she's a critical care RN nurse, she has about a 15 mile drive each day.
Wow, huge savings by making that move! Good job! 👏
Jenna,
You have a good head on your shoulders. You handle your life snd finances with respect, responsibility and fun with ease 👍
Someone of your caliber, knowledge, intelligence,integrity and love of life should be running for office to restore sanity👍
I watched the video where you panted the trailer. I hope you did go back to the nice blue for that year of RV :-).
Everyone that works for a living should take this advice of watching where they spend their money and how much for what. This is not anything new. It’s just that parents do not teach their children how to budget. Why? Because, it’s just way too easy to be a slave to any credit loaning agency. 👍Thank you Jenna, this may save some folks heartaches in their future.🙏🏽✌🏻🇺🇸😎
Need to include monthly savings for retirement, all forms of insurance, car maintenace, dental, medical, taxes, clothes, hair. It all has to be factored in and accounted for into each month. So you have left out much expense necessary to live.
The way of living is higher than ever these days. One really has to budget. You're doing the best you can, I feel!
Thanks, now I am gonna try to budget more after those results 😅
Hello hun. Hope your doing well. I really enjoyed this video. It really makes a person think. You also have given people an idea of what they would be looking at if they moved off grid or just lived a life style similar to yours. Our fur babies are expensive, but they are well worth it. I love your kitties. They have the cutest personalities. Thank you for sharing. God bless.
It is definitely important for all people to evaluate our monthly/annual expenses and budget as needed. This is how I stay debt free also. Thanks for making these and rock on! 🤘🍻
🍻👍
The item of " Beer" should be listed under medications, supplements, self-improvement. But you did good, girl, proud of you.
Good idea, I will have to switch up my expense categories for next time! 😀👍
You're doing very well and don't let anyone tell you otherwise. My food and pet expenses are very similar. I'm retired so the absolute biggest expense is health insurance. I'm making it so far but I can see the writing on the wall. Good luck everyone.
Thank you 😊
It doesn’t look like much I know. The important thing is it’s yours. And you have it. As far as I can see you are very good at what you’re doing and you love it. That’s all that really matters. Carry on Gypsy. Ok I’m thinking you should start eating those fish you been catching Jenna. Maybe a small garden too. Also why aren’t the cats doing their business outside?
Hi Jenna from Holland. I live like you in a gipsy wagon all recyceld have 2 ponys 2 chickens and one cat. Love very minimal...have my own well....and compost toilet.
I have old age pension...a car as i live 3 km from the village. Life is expensive.
Yet i can save some money every month, got return taxpay and save my hollidaypayment.
No debts, which i am so happy with...
My monthly foodcosts are lower than yours as i eat very simple.. but overall jou and i life the life in freedom.
I pay a little rent for the ground i live on and that is 2000m2...i have my stable build there myself...oh what you can do with pallets!!!
So yes tis a lot of money but i love my place and the fact of a small footprint. Also no depts...
Jou are a topper girl❤❤🎉
Great vid Jenna just thinking ahead to next year when all will cost more, Start looking at spots around your property for a garden maybe next year justplant some potatoes for starters. If you can get a winters worth why not.
Moral of the story...you're a girl doing the best she can. Glad you've got dental, i'm going thru a deep cleaning procedure that requires 4 visits. Cost to my insurance: $700.00. Cost without insurance: $1054.00. 67 year old teeth that i didn't take care of in my youth.
Pretty sure i don't have to tell you this but take care of those chompers!
Most definitely! My dental is 70% covered so even when I had a $1000 gum graft I had to fork over $300 and that was just one tooth! Lol. Nothing is cheap eh. Good luck with those chompers!
@@gypsyjenna Thanks Honey. Two procedures down and two to go. Hopefully the pain will stop.
This is a very good video. You're always providing up front and practical info. I've really been paying attention to your work here for a couple of years and I'm trying to get to your level. !! Dog food!! can you believe how expensive the good stuff is now days!! (However that will NEVER be eliminated). I think my next step might be a green house/garden to off-set some of the ridiculous (and tasteless ) food which seems to be all they sell now. Keep up the good work
Sadly I agree with you - corporate greed is financially killing hard working people. Going grocery shopping esp. difficult and demoralizing. I just feel so RIPPED OFF. BTW ♥️ watching you - sending you blessings
100%! The price of food is outrageous!
It’s refreshing to see one succeed as well as you have. It’s almost impossible for a single person to make it on their own,great model for young people to live up to ❤️
Hey jenna, thank you thats an eye opener! I try not to add it up cause its to scarry, the price of everything is unreal any more, wish we could at least just level out instead of this constant up and up and up cycle i truly believe especially where im at ,a bunch of that is greed, anything i buy in this town ,(which i hate to admit is myhometown) i can go 40 miles down the road and get it for half of what it is here. And that is consistant, when the prices skyrocketed during pandemic these folks got used to the inflated prices and refuse to come down to where the rest of the world is. Its unreal every store here is doing some kind of switcharoonie on advertised prices in the store, one store has no prices on the shelfs i guess so they can adjust accordingly at the register, im basicly trying to boycott this town but still once in a while get caught up in th3yre bullshit because of convieniants thanks for the great vid and hang in there!❤❤
That sounds awful and the no prices things leaves you with a guessing game. Also scary. I would definitely venture out a little further maybe biweekly for those cheaper prices for sure!
Also much inflation here in Europe (Belgium). As a single male my food bill is around 250 euro per month. Going out (having a drink somewhere) I manage with 50 euro a month in general. I think you can cut back on food and supplements, if you eat healthy you don't need many supplements (it's also a business...) I have an old car and rent a nice apartment around Antwerp and think I can do with around 1500 euro per month. As you may know our medical system is top notch and when you end up in hospital you will not be ruined like in the States. Anyway, great video and indeed it seems that everything has gone up in price since Covid days, not even mentioning the ridiculous prices of new cars (at least here in Europe). God bless!
This is how I live except I do have electricty. You didn't include what your property tax is per year devided x 12. It sure is nice having your home and land paid for !!!
That was eye opening! I should do this. Every month i say to myself, where does all my money go. 🤷
Definitely give it a try. Very eye opening for sure. Budgeting makes a big difference too
I live in Texas, and the most expense is the mortgage it runs around 1800 per month. The health insurance which about 450 per month. Food, we have our own backyard that we have food forest and grow our own vegetables, and thus the groessery is around $450 for the 3 people. Utilties are a little pricy, electricity around the summer month is around $180, gas $40, water bill $75, and internet $150. Car gas is around $120. And, sometime we eat out once or twice per month around $100 and other expense like $50. We spend about $3500.
Great video Jenna ! ! No, you have a lot, but what you have is completely and entirely YOURS. Congrats on your fine financing future ! !
Thank you 😊
Everyone should do this kind of financial analysis regularly just to keep in touch with the reality of where your money is going. I categorize things a bit differently. The first thing is what I call "human consumables" those things which you need in day-to-day life regardless of where you live which will in time disappear. Food, toiletries, vitamins and meds, clothing, and so forth. Next I do "living necessities" which includes rents, utility bills, phone*, internet*, and non-car insurances. Vehicle costs come next including everything it takes to keep it on the road except fuel*. For me, being self-employed fuel falls almost completely under "business expenses" as most of my shopping and visiting happens along the way of a route needed for business. My phone, internet, and vehicle expenses are under "business expenses" as it's a business necessity when you're self employed, but not as much if you work for someone else. Then there's shelter expense; the cost of having a home of some kind and in maintaining it. Pet expenses will come back when I get another doggie (which I hope is soon!)
I have had to make an art of living cheaply in recent times due to aging and health problems. Not many people have the situation which I do which allows me to do it as cheaply as I do, and a lot of it was only possible coming as very deeply appreciated help from friends and medical care for the indigent (also much appreciated). What most people spend on food alone is about the same as what I live on in total. I'm relatively happy this way and I have lived through worse times which lets me appreciate what I have now instead of feeling bad because of what I don't have. Happiness is free but sadness always has a cost. Be happy because things could always be worse.
You're right, things could always be worse! I hope you get a new doggy pal soon!
Thank you for compiling and sharing. Informative and shocking to see what a mindful frugal budget.
pretty sobering cost of living these days. and sadly, average Joe folks thinking they will be able to retire contributing 15% to their 401k retirement fund are in for a rude surprise. we haven’t seen anything yet when it comes to the dollar breaking down and being inflated away.
I live in Toronto. A couple members of my family have weekend trailers, I have always been intrigued by off grid/trailer living, etc. This video, unlike others that only show the positives, was a reality check. I am really not a big budgeter, but after taxes I pull in about $5,000/month and I pretty consistently save about $1,000/month. So I guess my monthly expenses are about $4,000/month. With that thought I get a much bigger/secure living space, reliable on demand electricity, water, gas, internet and cell service, everything is local and more/better employment opportunities. Thanks for the honest video, I think I am going to stay content right where I am.
Being able to waste 4,000 a month could probably provide you with a better off grid system! Over the next few years your 4,000 will be 6,000 at the current economy for the US!
BIDENOMICS!!!
When President Trump was in White House we get to travel and eat out, now bidenomics, we don’t! We can hardly afford to go out eat! So with that being said we got sick as well with stress and depression cuz we both retire living on fixed income now. If we knew this is what Obama was going to do I would have save some for the future instead of spending. Thanks for sharing
You shock me, really enjoy everything your about , .been do nomad 75% looking at a piece of property now as a 2nd home stead ..cheers girl i like your style , Ty 🎉🎉
Totally the reason I am building the tiny house. There is no way I could afford rent. It's crazy what rent in NS is now.
Very much so! It's so sad!
also nova scotia here. thinking about moving to an off grid lifestyle. just found your channel and will be following!
Great to see you I just Been back to the pet shop in the UK to get dogfood and I could not believe how much it’s gone up. I had stocked up on dogfood that was when it was cheap. It’s definitely going up everything nowadays. Take care😊
Wow, that’s a lot more than what I was expecting for you to be spending. Here in America I could probably cut those down quite a bit only for the fact is when I do alone and have a tiny house. I plan on having it on a small plot of land being as much off the greatest as humanly possible, but I don’t have the expense of a vehicle or high expenses of maintenance for Chihuahuas. Do the fact that I’m blind, I do have my groceries 99.9% of the time delivered to my house and it only cost me $14 a month for Walmart delivery which is so convenient and helpful for me! I really go anywhere except for if I need to go to the vet or take my children currently at this time to doctor appointments, but once the children are out of the house and I downsize to a tiny house I won’t have that means of need for transportation other than taking my pets to the vet! Hoping they have an outside garden where I can grow mainly most of my fruits and some veggies to cut back on cost and meal prep as cheaply as possible! Love that you did this sorry that the cost in Canada is so high. It’s super crazy but I’m also glad that you take very well care of your animals 12:09 .
The old saying , it all adds up quickly ! I’m afraid to add things up 😂 Gas especially probably 800 $ ish a month and that’s just the one car.. not propane or lawnmower.. I’m already 20L in this year cutting the grass with out trimming or chainsaw or log splitter ) fuel to get firewood out of the bush ! Let alone all the beer to keep hydrated doing so 😂
You are on the right track! Most people don't ever calculate all their expenditures for the month. If they did, they might be better at controlling their spending. Putting money aside will pay off big for you. Having no credit card debt, or rent, or mortgage, will all pay BIG in the end. I did something similar to what you are doing, and it took a long time to see all the benefits, but now at 70 I can see how it all paid off.
Awesome!
Jenna I'm so glad i watched this during lunch because every time you cook it make's me hungry hahaha. Back 15 years ago i had my wife and i go through this. It change our lives completely As you, we live debt free every month now. The power of really being able to control your spending is a game changer. We have gotten our kids doing this and 3 of them, they are debt free at ages of 29-31-42 all owns nice homes. But by doing this and it was really hard for them for few years. But now they take trip on the cash they have saved. This was a really good video people can do it if they just do what you did on that paper. NOW when you were going down that list you had me worried because you didn't say anything about some Cold snacks 🍺🥃 and then you said it i was smiling say there she is. lol. great video again and it was good to see you again. be safe.
Thanks Tony and it's definitely a great way to break down where money goes out. It allows one to focus on spending less in each expense category and maybe even eliminate a couple altogether...but not the beer fund! Nope! Haha 🍻
Your Awesome Ms Jenna!
Great Job!
You’re an Awesome Fur Baby Mama!
Love Your Videos!
Thank you for this video!
I have recently bought a trailer similar to yours and gave my notice to my landlord…. No more paying $1600 a month for rent!!!
About a year ago I sold my house and paid off all of my debt as well.
With that being said, I bought the camping trailer on my credit card but it was fairly cheap…. So when I get that paid off I will again be debt free!!! I am also in Canada and I’m a little scared for the winter in a camper but I’m also excited!!!!!!
Awesome! Best of luck to you, enjoy the freedom!!
Great job! I make similar noises when I eat something delicious too!😝🤣 Love your Kit Cats!!😻😻
For real girl that smashburger tho😮😮😮 freakin looks amazing!!Definitely on my go to list this week with cold beer🍻🍔
Hope you enjoy! 🍻
Dear Ms. Jenna You are Amazing!!
Down to Earth, lot's of Common sense, living a real life is scary these days.
The reason You listed is same conclusion l came to because I feel You enjoy life more !!
Take good care.
PS I would start catching Fish and Rorry & Ramsey would be on Seafood diet 😊.
Take good care.
Great Videos but You make them Great !!!
😘
This was an eye opening video. Thank you for being so open about your life style.
Thank you for watching!
You rock my off grid queen!!! love ya jenna
You have inspired me to do the same. I record all my spendings so I just have to categorize them. I own my home in Florida, USA so no mortgage & I pay off my credit card each month. I use the credit card so I don't carry much cash. I pay utilities which includes electric bill & water bill. I pay insurance on home and car. I'm retired on a fixed income and get a small pension for teaching in 20:12 Florida for 17 years. Taxes are high property, Federal income tax, sales tax is 7 percent, no state tax in Florida which is a plus. I do have a dog, Zebedee a small Chiweenie. Chihuahua Dachshund mix. Food & treats for him. Heartworm pill monthly & Flea & tick pill every 3 months. Like you, not a shopper and drive a 2016 Honda Fit. Gets 35 mpg. Don't drive much. Do travel far once a year, France in May, last year Great Britain. When I owned my RV motor home traveled to 49 states. Went to Prince Edward Island stopping in Nova Scotia & others provinces on the way. Drove to Alaska going through Canada - Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia, & Yukon on the way to Fairbanks, Alaska.
Wow! I am glad to hear you have gotten some travelling in that motorhome before the gas prices sky rocketed! That's a lot of places covered! Awesome!
I use pine wood pellets for kitty litter but my cat prefers to go potty outside almost 100% so a big bag of wood pellets has been sitting in my garage for 3 years.
Thanks GJ. Watched all the way to the out takes. Canada and US are not cheap. It's not possible to exist without money here. I was surprised by the $ amount, even in US $ it is expensive. Maybe your next project could be a cat treadmill. Have them produce electricity, hook up the treadmill to a generator that charges the batteries. Just make sure to change the catnip often so they won't quit too soon.
Haha, good idea. I definitely need to do something because the cost is outrageous. Then again, the price of everything is up so in some cases, there is no avoiding it unfortunately
@@gypsyjenna I retired from full time work in 2005. Had enough years to get a full pension. That pension is the same as it was 19 years ago. Things are a bit more expensive now than they were then. Penny pinching has been my way to get by for many years. Nickle pinching in Canada. 😗
It's so sad, isn't it? I hope things will get better but you never see prices come down
You've inspired me again Jenna ... Hubby and I will do an expense breakdown for July (we haven't kept receipts or anything so far for the month of June) ... I think it will be illuminating!
Yes! Definitely give it a try! I do it every few months and it's very interesting when you categorize your spending, and sometimes scary!
You are the only one i have seen that lives in a R.V that i can relate to. You make it make sense. The other videos i have seen they should just rent to own a home or something. They're expensive makes absolutely no common sense😂. Thanks for being simple and honest.
Love your videos. I watch all of them. Thank you. Watching from Northern California
I have a 2008 matrix. Yes replaced the frontend amongst other parts. However, in my opinion, its still one of the best cars ever. Always starts and goes. And it can haul so much. If you put the back seat down, you can carry so many offgrid homestead materials, such as lumber like 2x6x8 ft pieces and plywood cut 2x8ft. No joke. Hands down the best!
you should do this in each season. summertime and winter. i am in south arizona and my winter time expenses are way different than summer. winter is cheaper because in the summer i need to run my ac like 18 hours a day. in yer case you need to buy diesel for your diesel heater. seasons due change your expenses depending on where you live.
Absolutely, they do! Especially in winter when you're buying brand new winter tires for your car and definitely heating costs!
I've heard that everything is expensive in Canada.....but Crikey girl, some of those expenses seem excessive.
I'm an old codger now, but I would of loved to have met someone like you 40 years ago.
Glad I ran across your channel. As always, Thumbs up!😎👍
I live off grid in Western Australia. I'm debt free and own my property so I don't pay rent. By the time I pay for food, mobile phone (cell phone), internet, fuel to get to work, vehicle registration, insurances and shire rates (property tax) it cost me around $450 a week for the basics. Then extra costs if I need to buy something for my property or fix a breakdown.
Some people think that living off grid is free and expect to see us living without money. They get disappointed when they hear that living off grid is a lifestyle choice with most of the expenses of the real world.
But still, I love the off grid lifestyle and wouldn't change it for anything 👍
Same here! 👍
Fellow Canadian here, and thanks for your videos ❤... I just wanna say I can't believe you did this video without mentioning how the cost of living in Canada is INSANE now. I know you don't pay rent, but if NS is anything like Ontario.... groceries are high, gas is high...pretty much everything is unbelievably high. $2200 a month isn't bad at all! I pay 1700 for a "2" bedroom apartment.... but, I do understand how it can be shocking how living in the woods can still cost you $2200 🤯 .. maybe consider gardening, fermenting, canning etc. So u can save on groceries. Anyway, thanks again for your videos !