Lost my home, long story. Lived in a tent. Hated that. Then got a small R V. Loved that. Got a bigger RV. About the size of a small studio apartment. Lived in that and loved it even more. The van I had was ok but to crowded with me, 2 dogs, 2 Cats. Hence the R Vs. great life style. Retired from the road because of cataracts. Now in an apartment. Wish I could still be in my R V. Enjoy your imdependance while you can.
There was nothing more satisfying than getting rid of all my stuff, ditching the house, and hopping in a ride to gallivant across the country. All I need to learn is how to use battery bank for solar and jump a battery and there is no turning back. Thanks for sharing.
My sister worked overtime 6 days a week building up for 401K so she could have a good retirement. My sister's 49 years old found out she has stage 4 cancer metastatic. She won't live long enough to receive social security. Do it now while you have time, while you have the money, while you have the energy, while you have the health. Times too short to waste on always trying to make more money. Enjoy life while you can, there's only one time around. This lady is definitely an inspiration on enjoying your life while there's still time to do so.
Sending love to you and your sister and whole family. I know many stories like this one, unfortunately. So good to remember that tomorrow is never promised! Live today. 💖
Your post really hit me today… Meaning, I “got” exactly what you are saying and meaning. Maybe it is what I am going through in my own life with health right now. Maybe it is coming to terms with my own mortality. Maybe it is seeing others deal with health struggles. Maybe it is all of the above. At any rate, yes, we need to live in the here and now. We can’t take physical items with us to the other side. Wherever we end up. What is important is the experiences and relationships we have while here. So do everything in your power to find joy, empowerment and happiness in your now. Yesterday is over and gone. We can’t change it. And tomorrow may never happen for each one of us. So live in the now and be the best person you can be. And enjoy each of the little things…. My best to your sister. And you as well. People forget the loved ones like you, who deal with the sickness and grief of our loved ones. I can’t imagine the pain my health problems have caused my Grandmother. Who has been there for me for years. All through my ups and downs. And near death experiences. She is like my mother. Since my mother has passed on.
I had to retire at 62 because of a heart attack. I lost my house and moved into an RV. My wife is disabled because of a brain tumor in 2010. We live on what savings we have left and my social security. Believe it or not we are happy, we had to get rid of 90% of our belongings and responsibilities. I am now selling our car and getting a Toyota Van to convert like this one. I will keep our RV for a home base. I am going to make reservations at the Parks to sleep at. Get a list and map of all the National Parks. I’m not stopping until I am dead. God bless everyone.
Praying for you both and a healing be it God's will I know it must be much more relaxing just doing what your doing GODblz Bsav LivnluvinCHRIST Paula ❤
Some states will harass you if you live in your vehicle, like wa state.. The governor ( illegitimate) doesn't like homeless people. He has the MVD ( motor vehicle dept.) take pics of peoples license plates , even if they're parked at a place that is legal. Nazi Germany & Inslee is Hitler, all over again...🙄🤔
I've done this several times and loved every minute! I'm 70 now and if I wasn't in a wheelchair with no car I'd go again in a minute. Good for you Dani. I should write a book as I'm a writer of 40 years! I did one 4-month trip as a travel writer. What a blast.
No tools or space either. Went to Home Depot, guy measured inside my van. He cut the plywood, and parts for legs, got me the brackets. Went to church the next morning, asked a guy if he had a drill and would help me put it together. We were done in 30 minutes. I had a bed 😊
Must not have been a minivan! It is incredibly difficult to get it level cuz the floor height changes so much, especially if you take out the seats. Ask me how I know!!!
And Carol, I’m giggling! Ask me how I know! LOL. We went back and forth half a dozen times to shave more length or make a small angle in the bottom cut. What a tough two days that was. Well, a few hours two days in a row…but still! 😂😂😂
Wow! That's great help! I've never had anyone willing to do that for me. Eve when I pay for services what they charge they still seem to have an attitude about having to help me.
@@YouAndMeLivingFree I designed a bench style seat lengthwise behind driver's seat, with a back section connected by a piano hinge. I put the bench part on pull out drawer slides so I could pull it out full width at night. What I thought would be simple became incredibly complicated because of the many floor heights, making sure the drawer slides were level and making sure the top was level. But I really wanted the extra space I would have during the day. The bench is only 13 inches wide. As it turned out, I discovered the minivan was too small for me to be comfortable and I so bought a friend's 1991 Chevy g30 hightop van so I can stand up! Lordy! But the Caravan is for sale! Lol I like you have it designed so everything is accessible from inside and from outside. That's what I was going for as well.
Im over it, I've been married, divorced, raised a son, worked two jobs at times, life is meant to enjoy, especially while you have your health. I love your van, simple, functional and its incognito. Im done at 62, not worrying about money, 401k, I'm traveling.
Something tells me even if she made enough money for a luxury RV she would be satisfied with her smaller van 😌🙏 Humans like this I really admire . She’s so happy and so grateful for just the little she has . She doesn’t mind the simplicity of life and doesn’t care to have more than what she needs . She’s so positive and I wish her the best and peace 😎
Well, I guess there’s a difference between a “luxury” RV and a (station wagon) van. I’d take an RV with a toilet, shower. Little fridge, stove no matter how small the caravan. Anyday. Not even a real van camper with those things? No thanks. That’s not a van, it’s a station wagon. But good for her if she’s happy, choices or not.
I love how simple and clean her van is. I keep telling my coworkers I think I could live out of my car and a tent for awhile. Sometimes I think I should just rent out my house for income and travel.
Good for you. I traveled from Nevada to the California coast to Maine to Dallas to Colorado then home in 2002. It was the singular most empowering thing I have ever done as a woman. I was on the road for 37 days. It was marvelous and our nation is so very beautiful. Like you I always encourage women to step out in their own power. I was 50 that year. Blessings for you as you travel. ❤
I traveled coast to coast NY to California & in-between 6X about 25 years ago. It was the best experience to see firsthand how beautiful our vast country is, and how genuine simple people are. I've also lived in my Voyager van like a gypsy for 19 mos.~ Happiest times of my life! Feelings of pure freedom to enjoy each day as it comes; Unplugged from the ratrace, your senses refine to notice the daily nuances in the natural world all around you. I highly recommebd everyone have this experience at least once in their lives. It's a gift. It actively dawns upon you how little you need to live well & happily. It resets all your priorities. It also provides you many valuable opportunities to get acquainted with your own resilience. To find and know one's inner strengths is one of the best life gifts that you can collect for yourself💫 Joy to the Journey!✨️
I love this woman! She’s so positive and seems so happy. Clearly she’s learned a lot and shares it well. I wish her all the best in her future adventures! ☮️
@@annabrahamson4320not on city streets unless they have overnight parking but EVERYWHERE you go you need to find camping accommodations lol literally no one is cracking down on camping. They’re cracking down on homeless ppl sleeping in streets & making it a permanent residence. She has her brick permanent home & her travel home. If ppl cracked down on sleeping in your vehicle the world would crash bc truckers keep this world going yet they’re never home or in motels where do you think they sleep. You’d be surprised how many ppl make tiny homes in their car. Campgrounds & overnight camping for us is a multi million dollar industry. I’d also rather live in a town that is full of people camping than home owners & their associations. The Van/Car & camper community are the best people in the world taking care of each other including strangers as their neighbors are always new & the online community is protective & ready to help each other & the towns & people of those towns they temporarily visit. Cities are cracking down on the homeless. We’re far from homeless. We respect our stuff & the world we share with ppl we leave places better than we found it. Homeless ppl are living life with no means or mentality to take care of themselves much less the space they sleep in.
With a mini van, looks very stealthy. She could park almost anywhere and nobody would even notice. I’m wondering if the fitness centers are 24 hours? If so, $10/month to exercise and shower, may be able to overnight? There are so many channels that list places. We got a camper last year, now hard to book the reasonable federal sites ahead. Over age 62, $14/night, even with water/electricity
Good for her. I just admire people who can have so little and be happy. The best summer of my life, I worked in a KOA campground on Hatteras island, 1979. I had a tent with my foot locker of clothes and a small refrigerator. 2 burner cook stove and a 20 lb tank. I slept in my 1965 econoline van that had 3 layers of carpet padding and shag carpet. I had a box fan sitting on the engine cover inside to keep bugs away and cool me. I slept great, worked outside all day, have no memory of discomfort or any dread, just lifelong memories with people I met. One friend loved to travel, so 1983, we hit the road from east to west, in a 1963 comet station wagon, a $225.00 car. 4 months road adventure. I left home with $500.00, was gone 4 months. We worked in a casino for 6 weeks. I sent $500 home, and got home with money in my pocket, so the trip, counting the cost of the car, repairs, rent, ZERO NET COST. Doesn’t get much better. So happy for these nice people. You can tell they respect public lands if staying there, or anywhere they stay like Walmart, etc. I plan to check out her channel, thanks
She’s in my top 5 favs after 15 years of alternative living enthusiasm and viewing of everything from car living to tiny houses to earth ships whatever. She’s great!
As a person who has done the rim to rim hike, the angle down will work your legs in a way you cannot imagine. Flat walking will help but try to get variety in your environment for training. It’s an amazing goal. For me, once it was done, I turned back and looked at what I accomplished. It was life-changing and let me know that I could do anything.
I lived in my campervan in 🇬🇧 for four years. I went over to France and Spain during my travels. I had a Staffordshire Bull Terrier as company and she kept me safe. It was the best thing I've ever done. As you say, if a place doesn't feel safe, move on. Follow your instincts.
YES STAFFORDSHIRE BULL TERRIER 1 TRUST YOUR GUT!!! GET A WORKING DOG YES MANS BEST FRIEND DAILY WALKING EXCELLENT FOR HEALTH+MIND LEARNED TO BE MY BEST FRIEND
I also have a staffordshire bull terrier. He's huge and fiercely protective of me. I couldn't ask for a better dog. As far as leaving a place if it doesn't feel safe....lmao. I'm generally a very distrusting individual. I trust no one. I'm afraid I'd never find a place I'd feel safe to sleep. I admire those who can do it, though. It must be so freeing.
I really understood her when she said her top priorities were safety and sleep comfort. I suffer from to much paranoia to pull this off. Most of that van would have to be locked and loaded for me to do something like this and bulletproof glass. I could easily do this if I wasn't worried about finding places to park safety and rest.
What an incredible lady!! I love her independent and self sufficient attitude with all she’s manifested for herself. 💁🏻♀️❤️ I applaud the entire display of her choice of “real” van life. I’m encouraged and I see how she’s driven to fulfilling her goal. Thanks 🙏🏽 for sharing this step by step details in all that’s important in daily van life. 🙋🏻♀️😉
What a cool lady and the job she did on that minivan is just wonderful. So smart making her own bed, using those foam mats... The conciseness. Well done Dani!! 👍👍👏👏👏
Myself and my granddaughter live in a 33ft 2 bdrm camper full-time and we love it! So I watch a lot of tiny home videos as well as people that live in vans and what have ya! I also watch a lot of those I survived videos and so many of them are people that went to the grand Canyon and got lost in there! Be very in shape and don't go without a guide! As beautiful as that place is it can also be very deadly! Best wishes in to you in all of your adventures! ❤
One of the best van setups EVER! Everything is so organized, neat & super clean! I love how happy & positive this woman is, & she is very inspiring! Awesome interview! 👍🏻💯❤️💜🧡💙💚🤎💕
I watched Nomad videos for about 3 years and then I finally did it from December 2021 to August 2022 and I loved the simplicity of it. Removing the seats was a complete Game Changer!! As soon as I got an apartment again I stock that refrigerator and freezer, I enjoyed my long hot baths, and having Central Plumbing is something I will never go without again.
Just a little tip for everyone: if you use one of those mini Jump Starters like the one demonstrated here, most of them need to be detached from the battery as soon as the vehicle starts. If you leave them attached with the vehicle running, part of the lead can melt. I've seen it happen!
Isn’t she wonderful 😊 so inspiring and encouraging. Her joyous spirit and laugh are contagious. She is showing those of us that dream of traveling solo and seeing the beauty of our country, that we CAN do it! And her van is so cute and cozy. Great video 👍🏼 loved the tour
I'm 71. I envy you but now a trip is to go two miles to Meijer, ride around on their electric cart for two hours looking around and then going home. I use to love going camping and wish you the best.
I loved your video! Dani, you are an inspiration & a delight! My husband & I were going to get a small 5th wheel & start traveling but we got C19 at my Mother’s funeral & he went to Heaven 20 days after Mother! I can’t see my future yet, but would still love to do a little traveling! My one big question that wasn’t addressed in this fun & informative video is how do you manage the bathroom situation? May God’s blessings & protection surround you on your journeys!
I have been watching and following the van life for years. At this point now that I'm retired ? I'm not sure I'm young enough to endure the road though my health is still good at 68. I do admire though those seniors that have been brave enough to hit the road with what they have and follow their dream.
Debra, I’m sending you virtual hugs. Seeing God’s grace enfold you now💖💖💖. And for practical matters, I use a foldable camp potty. It folds up flat in one move. It has a big, comfy seat guaranteed for like 350 pounds. And I use disposable bags for number 1 and 2, unless I’m boondocking, then I usually dig a hold 6-9 inches deep. I got the chair on Amazon. Hope this helps! 😊😊😊
@@tbonearmyvet2592 I haven’t met someone on the road who was not happy they took the leap. If the road calls, can you start small. Maybe you don’t need to do much leap as keep taking small steps toward your dream. Maybe. You’ll find what’s right for you, I’m sure!
Wow! She is amazing! Very organized, well thought out van for travel. So neat and tidy. She would be delightful to meet and visit with on the road. Thanks for sharing your rig and ideas!
I liked it the minute she opened it up. It is neat, organized and does not have that much stuff in it. Just useful stuff, like the bed spread, very well done and cheap. I have seen too many where it is just jammed and so disorganized, she gets an A+ from me.
You’re an inspiration! I’ve wanted to hit the road so badly for the past 7 years then our 28 yr old son unexpectedly passed and I’ve been in a fog. I really think this life style would help me. The 2012 Honda van I bought ended up being junk and now I’ve got a Toyota Camry hybrid and get 50+ mph. I’m tempted to take it and go. Leave hubs at home with the dogs!!!
Go for it. Do short trips near home. That way you won't be gone too long away from hubby and you'll still get some freedom. Who knows...maybe he will join. 😊
You need to go. Go find yourself,go find peace and walk your dog’s among the healing power of Mother Nature. My daughter passed and I packed what I need ,what my dogs needed, said goodbye to husband and walked away.
I love her spirit and her love for adventure! I find it so admirable to be able and drop everything to have the greatest adventure of a lifetime. This is really living. Not knowing what you’re going to go or face next. She is amazing!
I have a very similar van that has extra creature comforts like turning the back into a queen sized mattress with a specific air mattress, a DVD player, an actual outlet in the rear, additional storage in the floor that could be used as a refrigeration space so long as I change out the ice, etc. I think this video was exactly what I needed to see for a proper kick in the rear! No more excuses! 💖
@@iamnotmyhandle I just realized my response never posted. I added an Amazon link and it seems TH-cam took it down. If you Google "minivan air mattress" a ton of options should come up. Best of luck! 😃💖
My setup is pretty much like yours ( 06 Sienna) except that I made a full time shower in the rear seat well ( lined with shower pan vinyl). I use a one gallon sprayer to shower and it drains to the outside through a pre existing hole. When not showering the space is used for storing stuff that are easily removed. I have a portable fridge powered by a 500 watt Jackery and is kept behind the drivers seat. The passenger front seat is my closet and the foot area in front is my tool box and spare parts. I use a small 2.5 gallon bucket as my loo.I have the same seat back storage as you do and made reflectix for all my windows. My bed is about 14 inches off the floor so there is ample storage below. As I am short I can easly maneuver to the rear from the drivers seat without having to remove the center console. Thank you for a nice video. Good to see someone with the same ideas as mine.
A very simple yet well organized van "conversion" for one person on the go ! I so appreciated the thought process Dani went through before she undertook her adventures. Here's hoping you have many more exciting travels to come!
I did “Driveaway”, delivering RV motorhomes all over 48 states and Canada for 6 years. For over 300,000 miles. This old lady can see that you made your car safe and convenient in so many ways.
Good she kept her house...don't sell a house unless you absolutely HAVE to. It's a great exit plan to have in place when RVing isn't as easy on the aging body. I finally sold my Class C and got a high top van for short trips. I'm retired, love the travel but love to come home for the amities that the house provides.
Omg, I just Soo love your energy. Your excitement of it all makes me smile. I'm about to do the same. I do travel health care work for 13 weeks at a time, so I plan to semi retire. 3 months work, 3 months off to just travel and enjoy life and visit my kids and grands. I'm sooooo excited.
I knew a guy (and his older step-kid) who became homeless after he lost his job, his apartment, and finally his car. I had an extra van that the check engine light wouldn’t go off and I happen to live in an area that required stick emissions unless it was a classic, it was not a classic. I literally could not legally give the car away to him. It even drove fine. We put over $1000 (and it felt like 1000 hours) into trying to fix things to get the check engine off, but we did it ourselves, because we couldn’t afford a mechanic, but that meant It couldn’t be legally licensed to give my friend a home and way to find another job. It took almost a year, but he did get back on his feet, it would’ve been a lot faster if the well-meaning laws didn’t make it illegal to be poor. Is their government help? Yeah, the kind of help that puts a minor with a whole bunch of other men who hit rock bottom or in foster care with strangers. They choose a tent to “camp”, couch surfing on freezing nights, and lots of walking with garbage bags, and begging for rides rather rather than be harmed by the system that’s been broken for years and only knows how to keep you dependent, not how to get you independent again. Even our local bus system cost the poor more than it would cost the government to buy everyone using it a NEW (green) car. Most of America is too spread out for busses. Who wants to stand in the freezing cold or rain waiting to ride a bus for and ride hour twice a day to go where it would take 25 minutes to get to otherwise and if you miss it, you’re probably fired, and if it’s a holiday, in my area they don’t even run, jobs for high school dropouts, who don’t have cars, typically have to work holidays. Again, they are doing well now, but we all learned how horrible red tape and bureaucracy is. Took him to court over a loitering ticket and the arrogant judge upon hearing he couldn’t get a job printed out a whole bunch of jobs available, jobs that would require years of schooling and experience tossed it to him, an acted like he was making excuses, he wasn’t, he had a hard time getting a job without an education and as someone with major insecurities due to all the times people treated him like that and made him hopeless and confused. Pray for him, God knows his name.
😢🙏👍 Sometimes, man sometimes I feel its just totally utterly rigged against people like the regular folks you describe. When this "lifestyle" is being popularized on social media, you know we are in real big trouble. For few people this is a choice, a lifestyle, for others, this is their only hope.
@@temporarybackup5077 your last statement is definitely true. I’ve sat at campfires with people in both categories, especially when traveling with the Bob Wells groups. And it’s quite a beautiful thing, and we still have lots in common, and make great friendships. There are so many different people who do van life in different ways. It’s a very diverse crowd with many people who are very hard to categorize. Thanks for being here and for sharing your thoughts. You’ve made me think. And that’s always a good thing. 😊
it’s so hard when the laws DO keep people dependent. i lived with friends while in college with my son. finally got my first fully remote job that pays 70k (after being jobless for 6 months) finally going to get our camper and hit the road baby.
At 17:20, I can so relate to what she says -- as, I'm sure many women can. I'm 57, been a mom since I was 25, and I'm currently waiting for my 20 year old to take flight... In a few days, I'm taking my first solo camping trip. I have a 6ft bed pick up truck with a truck bed camping tent... I, can't, wait!
When my husband & I were younger( He is recently deceased) we, on the spur of the moment, hiked Bright Angel trail down to Indian Gardens turned around & returned to the top. It took 9 hours. It was Winter. Snow & ice on the top portion, warm @ Indian Gardens. Due to the snow/ ice it was closed to the mules. No services. A grueling experience & darkness fell by our return. Winter German tourist helped lead my husband with flashlights out final portion. A very spiritual place. A wonderful memory. Jeanne ( retired RN).
Dani is definitely someone I could caravan with. She has an infectious attitude. I really admire her minimalism. I'm not so minimal. LOL TFS to both of you.
When you gave the viewers a tour of the interior of your Sienna, I was like, “Wow, everything is so clean and organized!” And, I agree with you: organization is super important when you want/need to access specific things in your car - you need to be able to know at least the area in which you store them! Dani, I also really like that you didn’t have to invest tons of time and $ into your build. To me, the simpler, the better, so long as it’s functional! And, lastly, good for you in making it a point to have some “me time” all to yourself to do what you wish for a year! If not now, then when, right? I’m sure that you are making tons of wonderful memories for yourself, and also for your family via your TH-cam channel’s videos and any photos you also take to capture your experience! BTW, I’m heading over there to subscribe to your channel, too. Looking forward to keeping up with your adventures! Stay safe and well out there on the road, and have a fantastic time! Cheers!
I absolutely love the simpler builds. I love seeing the different ideas people have and how resourceful and creative they are when they don't have a lot of money to work with. I love your build. It's so creative and co,y!
I love ur adventurous spirit...ur lovely.... what ur doing takes courage esp when ur 40+ or so and not immature and know what this could take and cost .... I admire u.🥰🥰🥰 u go girl
I love her channel and her! She inspired me(and a few others) to get a minivan. I absolutely love it! Dani is such a joy to get to know through her channel.💞
I love this life..I love time with myself as well..glad she shared a part of her life for people like me who will definitely bring trying mini van/ rv living very soon...safe travels and continual blessings for her 👍🏾🙏🏾
@@TheBlackSheep02 I've seen how some people do it. Alot of the ones you see on TH-cam make money by TH-cam of course. Some do remote marketing and such. None of that is for me though. I'm also wondering a viable way that I could work remote. I have recently been looking for a way to work from home in general and haven't found any viable options for me... Doing it from a van where I wouldn't be staying in the same spot for very long seems even more difficult... *sigh*
@@TheBlackSheep02 many do migrant work, part attendants, or have a skill where they can stay on site to do farm work, or home repairs. Others do vehicle or tech work.
I am 66 years old and I camp in my 2008 Sienna, same color as yours! Sleep was my top priority, so I have a metal twin bed frame with plywood and a regular twin mattress. I'll look for you down the road!
I feel like she's my travel twin! We have so much in common in our travel experiences and preferences. Great video. Definitely going to start following her. Thank you.
Oh my gosh Dani you are spot on. Scared and excited is a perfect way to explain when you know you're onto something good. I think it's so important to feel inspired in life and to try new things. Your van is way cool! Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for this video. Very well done. You are a solid interviewer who asks pertinent questions. You do great camera work, varying your composition and shots, which keeps viewer boredom at bay. You make an excellent choice for a van tour using an engaging subject like Dani. And you’ve adjusted your use of music, toning down the volume and using it judiciously so that it doesn’t drown out your content. Many thanks and I greatly appreciate your effort!
This video made me so excited to get started planning for my adventure. I was especially excited to learn about Slab City! Dani's van is so simple, basic, uncluttered, I love it! I've been way overthinking it, and I LOVE her suggestion about taking mini trips to figure out exactly what you're going to need. I also love her confidence. I'm a little nervous about navigating places alone that I've never been to, but God's plan for me was to walk through this life alone, and I need to embrace it! I'll still have to work when I'm traveling, so I get to figure that out.
Do your belongings clatter and rattle as you drive? Where are your clothes, towel etc? How do you wash your dishes? Wash clothes? What’s your routine for bathrooms, showers? How do you get dressed? Lie on the bed and pull those pants on? Not trying to be overly intimate, but in such a compact space, I’m trying to wrap my mind around practical essential activities.
You go to McDonald's, you have lunch, you use the rest room to toilet. You go to a truck stop for showers, and then you change into fresh clothes after you shower. You use paper plates and plastic cutlery. In other words...you think outside the box and make it work. [former wife of 2 long-distance truckers]
I like her positivity and realism at the same time. I hope her Grand Canyon adventure is conquered and that it only becomes a stepping stone to bigger and better challenges for her.
I have an 08 sienna. Its my daily driver and I love it. I never thought I would like a minivan, but this thing just rocks. So easy to drive and see out of.
Dani, I like your choice of vehicle; I appreciate that you didn't put a fortune and a lot of time in the build. My (social) nature is much like yours. I enjoy alone time, myself, and I can understand that you feel that you're with 1 friend, as long as you have your videos. Personally, I have been a loner throughout most my life. Glad you enjoy your life. I enjoy van life, myself but only do it part time . Much love & blessings from North Carolina!
Bravo Dani! I love your adventurous spirit; we all needed an alternative to the $200,000 motor home tours🤨 …as if we all can just go out and buy one. Thanks for all the practical advice too; no one else talks about these points.
This lady is amazing with a good outlook on life! She seems to care about people (donating and sharing her experiences) and the environment (picking up trash and appreciating Americas beautiful landscapes). Thank you for introducing us to Dani.
Hi there, hahahaha you are so right about having a place for everything and everything in its place. My very first morning waking up in my previous car camper, it took me the best of 20 odd minutes looking for my socks. this is just such a nice simple camper, enough space for essentials. I now have a small hyundai getz that I am turning into a simple camper. Thank you for a great video, Safe travels and be blessed.
Some people are kind of critical of the choice to travel 1 on your own 2 in a van, but more people are inspired and excited about the freedom this kind of adventure affords.
@@theartistnextdoor1648 owning a home (paid off) is a huge safety net for your future no matter which way the world turns. living in a van is a massive risk if ever things destabilize.
My concerns would be access to restrooms, showers. My husband is an over the road trucker and it isn't easy to always find a rest room or shower. They buy fuel at those truck stops she wouldn't. And some only let you park there if you purchased fuel or they charge now.
Of all the van life videos out there yours is by far one of my favorites! I love your zest for life and positive attitude. Your video is so informative and so useful. Thank you so much for sharing! Stay safe and travel on my friend. 🫶
These videos have given me a good idea on what to do. I plan on next year to visit all 75 Maryland state parks and some of them will require me to spend the night because of how far they are. Love your videos.
Oh my! What a sweet woman, love your giggle and pure joy. The last two days, I've seen so many encouraging videos, I'm finally planning my first day trip in my Roadtrek...this week. Gotta get off me arse and just do it! Thank you so much. Would be such a pleasure to cross your path some day.😊💞 SOOO encouraging!!!
Good for you! Keep chasing those dreams. My main concern would be injuries or illnesses. I know that happens where ever you live, but being alone in a vehicle with a high fever needing a bathroom would be a big problem. She is a very resourceful person, and I'm sure she has contingent plans for this. Praying for good travelling and experiences for her. Live life big!
I Love You Lady, you're going for it, living your life I admire you and appreciate you. Because you're happy I can hear it in you're voice, please go to the Grand Canyon for you're hike! You are very inspiring, you tickle me because you have your van the way you like and you're so humble and enthusiastic I really like you!! Thanks A Lot!!!❤️
Lost my home, long story. Lived in a tent. Hated that. Then got a small R V. Loved that. Got a bigger RV. About the size of a small studio apartment. Lived in that and loved it even more. The van I had was ok but to crowded with me, 2 dogs, 2 Cats. Hence the R Vs. great life style. Retired from the road because of cataracts. Now in an apartment. Wish I could still be in my R V. Enjoy your imdependance while you can.
Excellent perspective. Thank you for sharing your experience.
Yes. "While you can" is important. None of us know what is around the corner.
There was nothing more satisfying than getting rid of all my stuff, ditching the house, and hopping in a ride to gallivant across the country. All I need to learn is how to use battery bank for solar and jump a battery and there is no turning back. Thanks for sharing.
Keep us posted! I might be behind you by a couple years but I’m so interested!
My sister worked overtime 6 days a week building up for 401K so she could have a good retirement. My sister's 49 years old found out she has stage 4 cancer metastatic. She won't live long enough to receive social security. Do it now while you have time, while you have the money, while you have the energy, while you have the health. Times too short to waste on always trying to make more money. Enjoy life while you can, there's only one time around. This lady is definitely an inspiration on enjoying your life while there's still time to do so.
I’m so sorry that your sister is going through this. I agree that we should do things now, while we can. I wish you the best.
Sending love to you and your sister and whole family. I know many stories like this one, unfortunately. So good to remember that tomorrow is never promised! Live today. 💖
Prayers 🙏🏽
Your post really hit me today… Meaning, I “got” exactly what you are saying and meaning. Maybe it is what I am going through in my own life with health right now. Maybe it is coming to terms with my own mortality. Maybe it is seeing others deal with health struggles. Maybe it is all of the above. At any rate, yes, we need to live in the here and now. We can’t take physical items with us to the other side. Wherever we end up. What is important is the experiences and relationships we have while here. So do everything in your power to find joy, empowerment and happiness in your now. Yesterday is over and gone. We can’t change it. And tomorrow may never happen for each one of us. So live in the now and be the best person you can be. And enjoy each of the little things….
My best to your sister. And you as well. People forget the loved ones like you, who deal with the sickness and grief of our loved ones. I can’t imagine the pain my health problems have caused my Grandmother. Who has been there for me for years. All through my ups and downs. And near death experiences. She is like my mother. Since my mother has passed on.
Tesla bio healers lifewave patches and asea. She can save her life
I had to retire at 62 because of a heart attack. I lost my house and moved into an RV. My wife is disabled because of a brain tumor in 2010. We live on what savings we have left and my social security. Believe it or not we are happy, we had to get rid of 90% of our belongings and responsibilities. I am now selling our car and getting a Toyota Van to convert like this one. I will keep our RV for a home base. I am going to make reservations at the Parks to sleep at. Get a list and map of all the National Parks. I’m not stopping until I am dead. God bless everyone.
With your wife being disabled , you can get a park pass for all the national parks
Oh wow, God bless you and your wife... God is faithful and know someone in South Carolina is calling yaws name out unto the Lord....
Your story is inspiring
👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
Praying for you both and a healing be it God's will I know it must be much more relaxing just doing what your doing GODblz Bsav LivnluvinCHRIST Paula ❤
Watched this from the bed in my van. Lone, lady van dweller for eight years. Saving so much money on rent and feel empowered and self sufficient!!!
Fabulous! More power to you!
That's a long time. How has it been? Biggest suggestion for newbies?
So sick of giving most of my $ to my landlord.
This is a real woman. Self sufficient, dreams her dreams and a sense of adventure. Doesn’t need to rely on anyone else. Brava to you my fair lady.
We are all “real women”.
So important for call women to be self sufficient.
The wisdom of simplicity. The luxury of efficiency. And.... a positive mental attitude.
Well done.
Some states will harass you if you live in your vehicle, like wa state..
The governor ( illegitimate) doesn't like homeless people.
He has the MVD ( motor vehicle dept.) take pics of peoples license plates , even if they're parked at a place that is legal.
Nazi Germany & Inslee is Hitler, all over again...🙄🤔
Yes indeed ♥️
Well said
All true!
Luxury of toyota,was gonna say if it was a dodge caravan might as well park it " down by the river" cuz it's gonna die
I've done this several times and loved every minute! I'm 70 now and if I wasn't in a wheelchair with no car I'd go again in a minute. Good for you Dani. I should write a book as I'm a writer of 40 years! I did one 4-month trip as a travel writer. What a blast.
That’s amazing 😊
I hope you do write a book! I would read it!
Travel writer? do u mean writing about your travels or you went traveling for inspiration?
Holy cow! That’s awesome! I used my TH-cam as a sort of travel journal. But a book, or even blog posts is also an option.
Write that book! It will be a great one.
I watch a lot of vanlife videos. And I think Dani has one of the best setups I've seen. So basic, yet effective.
Yes! I agree!
Everything is perfect for her.. Wht she needs is lots exercise...
I would have a security mesh over the window over my bed though 😮
the Arthur Ashe quote is one of my favorites...
"Start where you are,
use what you have,
do what you can"
Nice, I didn't catch that it was an already notable quote.
I like that saying.
❤
No tools or space either. Went to Home Depot, guy measured inside my van. He cut the plywood, and parts for legs, got me the brackets. Went to church the next morning, asked a guy if he had a drill and would help me put it together. We were done in 30 minutes. I had a bed 😊
Must not have been a minivan! It is incredibly difficult to get it level cuz the floor height changes so much, especially if you take out the seats. Ask me how I know!!!
I’m so glad it worked out that way for you! Love it! 😊
And Carol, I’m giggling! Ask me how I know! LOL. We went back and forth half a dozen times to shave more length or make a small angle in the bottom cut. What a tough two days that was. Well, a few hours two days in a row…but still! 😂😂😂
Wow! That's great help! I've never had anyone willing to do that for me. Eve when I pay for services what they charge they still seem to have an attitude about having to help me.
@@YouAndMeLivingFree I designed a bench style seat lengthwise behind driver's seat, with a back section connected by a piano hinge. I put the bench part on pull out drawer slides so I could pull it out full width at night. What I thought would be simple became incredibly complicated because of the many floor heights, making sure the drawer slides were level and making sure the top was level.
But I really wanted the extra space I would have during the day. The bench is only 13 inches wide.
As it turned out, I discovered the minivan was too small for me to be comfortable and I so bought a friend's 1991 Chevy g30 hightop van so I can stand up! Lordy!
But the Caravan is for sale! Lol
I like you have it designed so everything is accessible from inside and from outside. That's what I was going for as well.
Love this van and her laugh! She is so joyful and happy. Enjoy all your trips and adventures!
Definitely a huge feature of this video!
Yep her smile says it all
I agree that safety then sleep are two top priorities. Sleep is critical when I look at the amenities I would need for RVing.
Word!
Proud of herself! So cute & I would be, too!! 🙏❤️🙏🐕👵
Im over it, I've been married, divorced, raised a son, worked two jobs at times, life is meant to enjoy, especially while you have your health. I love your van, simple, functional and its incognito. Im done at 62, not worrying about money, 401k, I'm traveling.
I
Go girl. Enjoy
GO FOR IT GIRL! IT'S YOUR TIME NOW! DO YOU!😊
Hell yeah girl you go girl 🔥
ATTA BOY GIRL!!!! GO FOR IT !!!!!!!
Something tells me even if she made enough money for a luxury RV she would be satisfied with her smaller van 😌🙏 Humans like this I really admire . She’s so happy and so grateful for just the little she has . She doesn’t mind the simplicity of life and doesn’t care to have more than what she needs . She’s so positive and I wish her the best and peace 😎
She has a complete home…this is just for adventure. She’s not homeless. She has choices.
Well, I guess there’s a difference between a “luxury” RV and a (station wagon) van. I’d take an RV with a toilet, shower. Little fridge, stove no matter how small the caravan. Anyday. Not even a real van camper with those things? No thanks. That’s not a van, it’s a station wagon. But good for her if she’s happy, choices or not.
I love how simple and clean her van is. I keep telling my coworkers I think I could live out of my car and a tent for awhile. Sometimes I think I should just rent out my house for income and travel.
❤ Pls do. I wish I could afford personally. I think I could rarely live in a hse. Enjoy
Sounds like a great idea. 💗
Do it😊
You could figure out a way to rent out your home seasonally and return to it during the months you need it. Homestead 6mo.+, travel the other 6.
Never rent out your house… way too many grimy people not paying rent since Covid
Good for you. I traveled from Nevada to the California coast to Maine to Dallas to Colorado then home in 2002. It was the singular most empowering thing I have ever done as a woman. I was on the road for 37 days. It was marvelous and our nation is so very beautiful. Like you I always encourage women to step out in their own power. I was 50 that year. Blessings for you as you travel. ❤
Very inspiring! Thanks so much for sharing! You rock!
Yasssssss
Serious question..were you armed?
I agree I am also a gypsy type liking to gallant around the countryside.....in a VW convertible...61
I traveled coast to coast NY to California & in-between 6X about 25 years ago.
It was the best experience to see firsthand how beautiful our vast country is, and how genuine simple people are.
I've also lived in my Voyager van like a gypsy for 19 mos.~
Happiest times of my life!
Feelings of pure freedom to enjoy each day as it comes;
Unplugged from the ratrace, your senses refine to notice the daily nuances in the natural world all around you.
I highly recommebd everyone have this experience at least once in their lives. It's a gift.
It actively dawns upon you how little you need to live well & happily.
It resets all your priorities.
It also provides you many valuable opportunities to get acquainted with your own resilience. To find and know one's inner strengths is one of the best life gifts that you can collect for yourself💫
Joy to the Journey!✨️
I love this woman! She’s so positive and seems so happy. Clearly she’s learned a lot and shares it well. I wish her all the best in her future adventures! ☮️
God bless
It was great to meet her and see her setup.
Reminds me of a really cool school teacher ... great energy. How could she get lonely ? She'd be great company for herself -- great attitude.
I love her laugh, such a lovely soul
She is just womderful
This can be an inspiration to people who have absolutely no money to pay for rent and don't want to worry about questionable roommate situations
Where can you park?She is essentially homeless. Many cities are cracking down on this
@@annabrahamson4320 I thought I heard her say she still owns a home w her college age children living there.
@@annabrahamson4320not on city streets unless they have overnight parking but EVERYWHERE you go you need to find camping accommodations lol literally no one is cracking down on camping. They’re cracking down on homeless ppl sleeping in streets & making it a permanent residence. She has her brick permanent home & her travel home. If ppl cracked down on sleeping in your vehicle the world would crash bc truckers keep this world going yet they’re never home or in motels where do you think they sleep. You’d be surprised how many ppl make tiny homes in their car. Campgrounds & overnight camping for us is a multi million dollar industry.
I’d also rather live in a town that is full of people camping than home owners & their associations. The Van/Car & camper community are the best people in the world taking care of each other including strangers as their neighbors are always new & the online community is protective & ready to help each other & the towns & people of those towns they temporarily visit.
Cities are cracking down on the homeless. We’re far from homeless. We respect our stuff & the world we share with ppl we leave places better than we found it. Homeless ppl are living life with no means or mentality to take care of themselves much less the space they sleep in.
@@sharonspencer2312she sure did 😊. She can go home whenever she wants.
With a mini van, looks very stealthy. She could park almost anywhere and nobody would even notice. I’m wondering if the fitness centers are 24 hours? If so, $10/month to exercise and shower, may be able to overnight? There are so many channels that list places. We got a camper last year, now hard to book the reasonable federal sites ahead. Over age 62, $14/night, even with water/electricity
Good for her. I just admire people who can have so little and be happy. The best summer of my life, I worked in a KOA campground on Hatteras island, 1979. I had a tent with my foot locker of clothes and a small refrigerator. 2 burner cook stove and a 20 lb tank. I slept in my 1965 econoline van that had 3 layers of carpet padding and shag carpet. I had a box fan sitting on the engine cover inside to keep bugs away and cool me. I slept great, worked outside all day, have no memory of discomfort or any dread, just lifelong memories with people I met. One friend loved to travel, so 1983, we hit the road from east to west, in a 1963 comet station wagon, a $225.00 car. 4 months road adventure. I left home with $500.00, was gone 4 months. We worked in a casino for 6 weeks. I sent $500 home, and got home with money in my pocket, so the trip, counting the cost of the car, repairs, rent, ZERO NET COST. Doesn’t get much better. So happy for these nice people. You can tell they respect public lands if staying there, or anywhere they stay like Walmart, etc. I plan to check out her channel, thanks
Quite impressive. She really shows how small we can go! Wishing her a great travel year - for 2023
She’s in my top 5 favs after 15 years of alternative living enthusiasm and viewing of everything from car living to tiny houses to earth ships whatever. She’s great!
Aww, really?!? 💖💖💖
Well said!! I have to agree!! ❤
What is an Earthship? I mean in comparison to what I can visualize. I'm so intrigued!!!
I'm in awe at her organizational skills.
@@PerrySkyePhoenix In small spaces, it's the difference between sanity and chaos!
As a person who has done the rim to rim hike, the angle down will work your legs in a way you cannot imagine. Flat walking will help but try to get variety in your environment for training. It’s an amazing goal. For me, once it was done, I turned back and looked at what I accomplished. It was life-changing and let me know that I could do anything.
hmm good point. i’ve been speed walking to get into shape and this tip/hack will make for a more efficient workout without doubt. thanks!
Yeah, that will come later. Good for you!!!
Congrats!! YAY!
Lol run to rim… *insert dirty joke*
Is a permit needed?
This must be the most fearless woman I've ever heard of, and she is organized. Bravo lady!
I love how real she is about things not being as easy as portrayed lol
She sounds smart and cautious and brave. She is so bubbly.
Good luck to her walking the Grand Canyon, I think she will be ready. 😊
I wish her the best, and she’s sharing her preparation on her channel.
I lived in my campervan in 🇬🇧 for four years. I went over to France and Spain during my travels. I had a Staffordshire Bull Terrier as company and she kept me safe. It was the best thing I've ever done. As you say, if a place doesn't feel safe, move on. Follow your instincts.
YES STAFFORDSHIRE BULL TERRIER 1 TRUST YOUR GUT!!!
GET A WORKING DOG YES MANS BEST FRIEND
DAILY WALKING EXCELLENT FOR HEALTH+MIND LEARNED TO BE MY BEST FRIEND
I also have a staffordshire bull terrier. He's huge and fiercely protective of me. I couldn't ask for a better dog. As far as leaving a place if it doesn't feel safe....lmao. I'm generally a very distrusting individual. I trust no one. I'm afraid I'd never find a place I'd feel safe to sleep. I admire those who can do it, though. It must be so freeing.
I really understood her when she said her top priorities were safety and sleep comfort. I suffer from to much paranoia to pull this off. Most of that van would have to be locked and loaded for me to do something like this and bulletproof glass. I could easily do this if I wasn't worried about finding places to park safety and rest.
I could never live in a van to clausterfobic.
Agree I would not be so trusting of anyone!
Fear of danger will keep you from living...
Me too.
I get it! My husband said our daughters first vehicle was going to be a TANK!!🤣
It took my daughter two years to train to hike both rims of the Grand Canyon! Congratulations! It's a fantastic accomplishment.
That is amazing i have always wanted to do that! How did she train??
What an incredible lady!! I love her independent and self sufficient attitude with all she’s manifested for herself. 💁🏻♀️❤️ I applaud the entire display of her choice of “real” van life. I’m encouraged and I see how she’s driven to fulfilling her goal. Thanks 🙏🏽 for sharing this step by step details in all that’s important in daily van life. 🙋🏻♀️😉
Want to know where she parked each night, and how she made decisions based on her safety considerations.
What a cool lady and the job she did on that minivan is just wonderful. So smart making her own bed, using those foam mats... The conciseness. Well done Dani!! 👍👍👏👏👏
Myself and my granddaughter live in a 33ft 2 bdrm camper full-time and we love it! So I watch a lot of tiny home videos as well as people that live in vans and what have ya! I also watch a lot of those I survived videos and so many of them are people that went to the grand Canyon and got lost in there! Be very in shape and don't go without a guide! As beautiful as that place is it can also be very deadly! Best wishes in to you in all of your adventures! ❤
what model is your camper? im currently camper shopping so my son and i can go full time!!
One of the best van setups EVER! Everything is so organized, neat & super clean! I love how happy & positive this woman is, & she is very inspiring! Awesome interview! 👍🏻💯❤️💜🧡💙💚🤎💕
I love how tidy and no nonsense her vehicle is. And so homely too ❤
I watched Nomad videos for about 3 years and then I finally did it from December 2021 to August 2022 and I loved the simplicity of it. Removing the seats was a complete Game Changer!! As soon as I got an apartment again I stock that refrigerator and freezer, I enjoyed my long hot baths, and having Central Plumbing is something I will never go without again.
Just a little tip for everyone: if you use one of those mini Jump Starters like the one demonstrated here, most of them need to be detached from the battery as soon as the vehicle starts. If you leave them attached with the vehicle running, part of the lead can melt. I've seen it happen!
Isn’t she wonderful 😊 so inspiring and encouraging. Her joyous spirit and laugh are contagious. She is showing those of us that dream of traveling solo and seeing the beauty of our country, that we CAN do it! And her van is so cute and cozy. Great video 👍🏼 loved the tour
No, YOU’RE wonderful!!! Ok, maybe we both are. Sending tons of love. 😊
I'm 71. I envy you but now a trip is to go two miles to Meijer, ride around on their electric cart for two hours looking around and then going home. I use to love going camping and wish you the best.
I loved your video! Dani, you are an inspiration & a delight! My husband & I were going to get a small 5th wheel & start traveling but we got C19 at my Mother’s funeral & he went to Heaven 20 days after Mother! I can’t see my future yet, but would still love to do a little traveling! My one big question that wasn’t addressed in this fun & informative video is how do you manage the bathroom situation? May God’s blessings & protection surround you on your journeys!
I'm so sorry for your losses. I hope one day you still get to live your dream
Deepest sympathy for your losses.
I have been watching and following the van life for years. At this point now that I'm retired ? I'm not sure I'm young enough to endure the road though my health is still good at 68.
I do admire though those seniors that have been brave enough to hit the road with what they have and follow their dream.
Debra, I’m sending you virtual hugs. Seeing God’s grace enfold you now💖💖💖.
And for practical matters, I use a foldable camp potty. It folds up flat in one move. It has a big, comfy seat guaranteed for like 350 pounds. And I use disposable bags for number 1 and 2, unless I’m boondocking, then I usually dig a hold 6-9 inches deep. I got the chair on Amazon. Hope this helps! 😊😊😊
@@tbonearmyvet2592 I haven’t met someone on the road who was not happy they took the leap. If the road calls, can you start small. Maybe you don’t need to do much leap as keep taking small steps toward your dream. Maybe. You’ll find what’s right for you, I’m sure!
Wow! She is amazing! Very organized, well thought out van for travel. So neat and tidy. She would be delightful to meet and visit with on the road. Thanks for sharing your rig and ideas!
Hi Patricia! I’ll see you down the road! ❤
I liked it the minute she opened it up. It is neat, organized and does not have that much stuff in it. Just useful stuff, like the bed spread, very well done and cheap. I have seen too many where it is just jammed and so disorganized, she gets an A+ from me.
You’re an inspiration! I’ve wanted to hit the road so badly for the past 7 years then our 28 yr old son unexpectedly passed and I’ve been in a fog. I really think this life style would help me. The 2012 Honda van I bought ended up being junk and now I’ve got a Toyota Camry hybrid and get 50+ mph. I’m tempted to take it and go. Leave hubs at home with the dogs!!!
Try a week on your own before you go anywhere and see how much you miss your loved ones truly.God Bless You🙏😀
Go for it. Do short trips near home. That way you won't be gone too long away from hubby and you'll still get some freedom. Who knows...maybe he will join. 😊
You need to go. Go find yourself,go find peace and walk your dog’s among the healing power of Mother Nature. My daughter passed and I packed what I need ,what my dogs needed, said goodbye to husband and walked away.
Very sorry for your loss.
Very sorry for your loss. I know. My 27 year old son passed 8 years ago. Life is never the same.
I'm glad more u-tubers are getting to know this wonderful lady...she's real, down to earth and fun to follow...and great van setup..
Hi Betty! Nice to see you! You’re so kind and supportive! Sending you a ton of love! ❤
I’ve been following her since the beginning. So, it was an amazing opportunity to do this.
I love her spirit and her love for adventure! I find it so admirable to be able and drop everything to have the greatest adventure of a lifetime. This is really living. Not knowing what you’re going to go or face next. She is amazing!
I have a very similar van that has extra creature comforts like turning the back into a queen sized mattress with a specific air mattress, a DVD player, an actual outlet in the rear, additional storage in the floor that could be used as a refrigeration space so long as I change out the ice, etc. I think this video was exactly what I needed to see for a proper kick in the rear! No more excuses! 💖
Do you mind sharing which queen size air mattress will fit this van?
Hello sarah how are you doing?
@@iamnotmyhandle I just realized my response never posted. I added an Amazon link and it seems TH-cam took it down. If you Google "minivan air mattress" a ton of options should come up. Best of luck! 😃💖
My setup is pretty much like yours ( 06 Sienna) except that I made a full time shower in the rear seat well ( lined with shower pan vinyl). I use a one gallon sprayer to shower and it drains to the outside through a pre existing hole. When not showering the space is used for storing stuff that are easily removed. I have a portable fridge powered by a 500 watt Jackery and is kept behind the drivers seat. The passenger front seat is my closet and the foot area in front is my tool box and spare parts. I use a small 2.5 gallon bucket as my loo.I have the same seat back storage as you do and made reflectix for all my windows. My bed is about 14 inches off the floor so there is ample storage below. As I am short I can easly maneuver to the rear from the drivers seat without having to remove the center console. Thank you for a nice video. Good to see someone with the same ideas as mine.
My set up was the same. I have a portable toilet in the back with supplies. Clothes in duffel bags under the bed and cooler for a kitchen.
Best easy low cost set up I ever seen and looks extremely organize and beautiful to! It doesn’t look ugly at all! Love her bed cover❤️
She seems like such a fun person ♥️ and her little van has everything she needs
She is. Make sure to check out her TH-cam channel.
That sounds so condescending.
@@Teenywing I complimented her van and said she was a fun person…? How is that condescending?
A very simple yet well organized van "conversion" for one person on the go ! I so appreciated the thought process Dani went through before she undertook her adventures. Here's hoping you have many more exciting travels to come!
Hello Jennifer
How are you doing today?
I love seeing people live the life they chose 👍🏾🧡
As long as they are happy 😊
As long as they don’t harm other creatures to live that life.
I did “Driveaway”, delivering RV motorhomes all over 48 states and Canada for 6 years. For over 300,000 miles. This old lady can see that you made your car safe and convenient in so many ways.
She seems like such a fun hilarious upbeat person to be with. She’s so motivating.
Good she kept her house...don't sell a house unless you absolutely HAVE to. It's a great exit plan to have in place when RVing isn't as easy on the aging body. I finally sold my Class C and got a high top van for short trips. I'm retired, love the travel but love to come home for the amities that the house provides.
Omg, I just Soo love your energy. Your excitement of it all makes me smile. I'm about to do the same. I do travel health care work for 13 weeks at a time, so I plan to semi retire. 3 months work, 3 months off to just travel and enjoy life and visit my kids and grands. I'm sooooo excited.
This sounds amazing!!! What a wonderful balance! Go YOU!!! ❤
I knew a guy (and his older step-kid) who became homeless after he lost his job, his apartment, and finally his car. I had an extra van that the check engine light wouldn’t go off and I happen to live in an area that required stick emissions unless it was a classic, it was not a classic. I literally could not legally give the car away to him. It even drove fine. We put over $1000 (and it felt like 1000 hours) into trying to fix things to get the check engine off, but we did it ourselves, because we couldn’t afford a mechanic, but that meant It couldn’t be legally licensed to give my friend a home and way to find another job. It took almost a year, but he did get back on his feet, it would’ve been a lot faster if the well-meaning laws didn’t make it illegal to be poor. Is their government help? Yeah, the kind of help that puts a minor with a whole bunch of other men who hit rock bottom or in foster care with strangers. They choose a tent to “camp”, couch surfing on freezing nights, and lots of walking with garbage bags, and begging for rides rather rather than be harmed by the system that’s been broken for years and only knows how to keep you dependent, not how to get you independent again. Even our local bus system cost the poor more than it would cost the government to buy everyone using it a NEW (green) car. Most of America is too spread out for busses. Who wants to stand in the freezing cold or rain waiting to ride a bus for and ride hour twice a day to go where it would take 25 minutes to get to otherwise and if you miss it, you’re probably fired, and if it’s a holiday, in my area they don’t even run, jobs for high school dropouts, who don’t have cars, typically have to work holidays. Again, they are doing well now, but we all learned how horrible red tape and bureaucracy is. Took him to court over a loitering ticket and the arrogant judge upon hearing he couldn’t get a job printed out a whole bunch of jobs available, jobs that would require years of schooling and experience tossed it to him, an acted like he was making excuses, he wasn’t, he had a hard time getting a job without an education and as someone with major insecurities due to all the times people treated him like that and made him hopeless and confused. Pray for him, God knows his name.
🙌💖☀️🙌
😢🙏👍
Sometimes, man sometimes I feel its just totally utterly rigged against people like the regular folks you describe. When this "lifestyle" is being popularized on social media, you know we are in real big trouble.
For few people this is a choice, a lifestyle, for others, this is their only hope.
@@temporarybackup5077 your last statement is definitely true. I’ve sat at campfires with people in both categories, especially when traveling with the Bob Wells groups. And it’s quite a beautiful thing, and we still have lots in common, and make great friendships. There are so many different people who do van life in different ways. It’s a very diverse crowd with many people who are very hard to categorize.
Thanks for being here and for sharing your thoughts. You’ve made me think. And that’s always a good thing. 😊
it’s so hard when the laws DO keep people dependent. i lived with friends while in college with my son. finally got my first fully remote job that pays 70k (after being jobless for 6 months) finally going to get our camper and hit the road baby.
God bless you❤
At 17:20, I can so relate to what she says -- as, I'm sure many women can. I'm 57, been a mom since I was 25, and I'm currently waiting for my 20 year old to take flight...
In a few days, I'm taking my first solo camping trip. I have a 6ft bed pick up truck with a truck bed camping tent... I, can't, wait!
When my husband & I were younger( He is recently deceased) we, on the spur of the moment, hiked Bright Angel trail down to Indian Gardens turned around & returned to the top. It took 9 hours. It was Winter. Snow & ice on the top portion, warm @ Indian Gardens. Due to the snow/ ice it was closed to the mules. No services. A grueling experience & darkness fell by our return. Winter German tourist helped lead my husband with flashlights out final portion. A very spiritual place. A wonderful memory. Jeanne ( retired RN).
Dani is definitely someone I could caravan with. She has an infectious attitude. I really admire her minimalism. I'm not so minimal. LOL TFS to both of you.
Hello how are you Kimberly?
What great editing! LOL Thanks so much! You made me look pretty organized! I loved this experience. 😊
She needs a name😢. Perhaps start a poll on your channel to get one. I propose Phoenix or Poppy.
Thank you so much for meeting with me! It was awesome to meet you, and very fun to film your story.
Great van, even greater attitude. I'd love to do the Rim to Rim hike!! Maybe get a group together!
When you gave the viewers a tour of the interior of your Sienna, I was like, “Wow, everything is so clean and organized!” And, I agree with you: organization is super important when you want/need to access specific things in your car - you need to be able to know at least the area in which you store them! Dani, I also really like that you didn’t have to invest tons of time and $ into your build. To me, the simpler, the better, so long as it’s functional!
And, lastly, good for you in making it a point to have some “me time” all to yourself to do what you wish for a year! If not now, then when, right? I’m sure that you are making tons of wonderful memories for yourself, and also for your family via your TH-cam channel’s videos and any photos you also take to capture your experience! BTW, I’m heading over there to subscribe to your channel, too. Looking forward to keeping up with your adventures! Stay safe and well out there on the road, and have a fantastic time! Cheers!
@@FlowJunkie65 thank you so much! See you over there! 💖
I absolutely love the simpler builds. I love seeing the different ideas people have and how resourceful and creative they are when they don't have a lot of money to work with. I love your build. It's so creative and co,y!
Nice! Make sure you check out her TH-cam channel.
@@AdventureGearTV i did and I subscribed. Do you know the name of the jump starter she used to jump start her van?
I love ur adventurous spirit...ur lovely.... what ur doing takes courage esp when ur 40+ or so and not immature and know what this could take and cost .... I admire u.🥰🥰🥰 u go girl
this lady is just amazing, and I rarely comment on youtube; but she's just great !!!
Well, Ben, thanks for stopping in and sharing your thoughts. She was terrific to work with.
I love her channel and her! She inspired me(and a few others) to get a minivan. I absolutely love it! Dani is such a joy to get to know through her channel.💞
You’re too kind! Thanks, Sabrina! 💖
What a fun, positive, and encouraging lady. I love her spirit!!! ❤️
Hello Laurie
How are you doing today?
I love this life..I love time with myself as well..glad she shared a part of her life for people like me who will definitely bring trying mini van/ rv living very soon...safe travels and continual blessings for her 👍🏾🙏🏾
Me 2 alot of ppl do but how do u make money u know I haven't found any online jobs I qualify for if u have ideas please lmk
@@TheBlackSheep02 I've seen how some people do it. Alot of the ones you see on TH-cam make money by TH-cam of course. Some do remote marketing and such. None of that is for me though. I'm also wondering a viable way that I could work remote. I have recently been looking for a way to work from home in general and haven't found any viable options for me... Doing it from a van where I wouldn't be staying in the same spot for very long seems even more difficult... *sigh*
Go for it! Be strong and independent while you can. Blessings on you!
@@TheBlackSheep02 many do migrant work, part attendants, or have a skill where they can stay on site to do farm work, or home repairs. Others do vehicle or tech work.
What kind of skills do you have?
I am 66 years old and I camp in my 2008 Sienna, same color as yours! Sleep was my top priority, so I have a metal twin bed frame with plywood and a regular twin mattress. I'll look for you down the road!
This lady is an inspiration! It's so nice to see someone who enjoys her life. Thanks for the upload.
I feel like she's my travel twin! We have so much in common in our travel experiences and preferences. Great video. Definitely going to start following her. Thank you.
Woot woot! Hi travel twin! 😊
I absolutely love her and all her answers. Go for it. A role model.
Oh my gosh Dani you are spot on. Scared and excited is a perfect way to explain when you know you're onto something good. I think it's so important to feel inspired in life and to try new things. Your van is way cool! Thanks for sharing.
2:41 love this lady, wish more people would do that, picks up litter wherever she goes.
Thank you for this video. Very well done. You are a solid interviewer who asks pertinent questions. You do great camera work, varying your composition and shots, which keeps viewer boredom at bay. You make an excellent choice for a van tour using an engaging subject like Dani. And you’ve adjusted your use of music, toning down the volume and using it judiciously so that it doesn’t drown out your content. Many thanks and I greatly appreciate your effort!
Dani's positivity is inspiring... loved the vid!
Congratulations on your journey! Wishing you the best on your Grand Canyon adventure.
This video made me so excited to get started planning for my adventure. I was especially excited to learn about Slab City! Dani's van is so simple, basic, uncluttered, I love it! I've been way overthinking it, and I LOVE her suggestion about taking mini trips to figure out exactly what you're going to need. I also love her confidence. I'm a little nervous about navigating places alone that I've never been to, but God's plan for me was to walk through this life alone, and I need to embrace it! I'll still have to work when I'm traveling, so I get to figure that out.
WHERE IS THE TOILET
@@janetgall4983anywhere you choose! Just take a spade! 😂
The bush next to the road. @@janetgall4983
Same place the showers are. Any campground.@@janetgall4983
@@janetgall4983nature and public toilets?.🤷♀️
Wow, I really admire her. This was sooo interesting. Thank you so much.
Do your belongings clatter and rattle as you drive? Where are your clothes, towel etc? How do you wash your dishes? Wash clothes? What’s your routine for bathrooms, showers? How do you get dressed? Lie on the bed and pull those pants on? Not trying to be overly intimate, but in such a compact space, I’m trying to wrap my mind around practical essential activities.
You're homeless. Period. This is pathetic.
You go to McDonald's, you have lunch, you use the rest room to toilet. You go to a truck stop for showers, and then you change into fresh clothes after you shower. You use paper plates and plastic cutlery. In other words...you think outside the box and make it work. [former wife of 2 long-distance truckers]
i have no words, i absolutely love this. your set up is just perfect, and it doesn't cost a ton of money. respect to you.
You are an inspiration! Thank you for the tour and the story! I hope you continue your realness, the pitfalls and the triumphs!
😊😊😊
I like her positivity and realism at the same time. I hope her Grand Canyon adventure is conquered and that it only becomes a stepping stone to bigger and better challenges for her.
What an adorable person! A true ray of human sunshine.
Denny has her facts straight so she is enjoying herself and wise about her decisions. Nice video. Thanks
I have an 08 sienna. Its my daily driver and I love it. I never thought I would like a minivan, but this thing just rocks. So easy to drive and see out of.
Dani, I like your choice of vehicle; I appreciate that you didn't put a fortune and a lot of time in the build. My (social) nature is much like yours. I enjoy alone time, myself, and I can understand that you feel that you're with 1 friend, as long as you have your videos. Personally, I have been a loner throughout most my life. Glad you enjoy your life. I enjoy van life, myself but only do it part time . Much love & blessings from North Carolina!
Hello Cathy
How are you doing today?
Loved watching this. I truly hope she reaches her Grand Canyon goals also!
Bravo Dani! I love your adventurous spirit; we all needed an alternative to the $200,000 motor home tours🤨 …as if we all can just go out and buy one.
Thanks for all the practical advice too; no one else talks about these points.
This lady is amazing with a good outlook on life! She seems to care about people (donating and sharing her experiences) and the environment (picking up trash and appreciating Americas beautiful landscapes). Thank you for introducing us to Dani.
Well you are such a ray of sunshine Happy to see you do this. Makes me think I can do it. ❤
I am so impressed with how well your minivan is set up! You have everything so nice & neat, & still have plenty of moving around room. Happy travels!
Hello Carol
How are you doing today/
What a great job on her van.She has really given me great ideas on how to organize myself.
Hello 👋how are you doing?
Hi there, hahahaha you are so right about having a place for everything and everything in its place. My very first morning waking up in my previous car camper, it took me the best of 20 odd minutes looking for my socks. this is just such a nice simple camper, enough space for essentials. I now have a small hyundai getz that I am turning into a simple camper. Thank you for a great video, Safe travels and be blessed.
What a sassy intelligent woman you are. Love this! xxxx
I really like your van setup. Nice and tidy, simply organized ❤
Love the van! Appreciate the candidness in how easy/not so easy it is to build a bed and the transition to van life!
I moved into my Toyota scion last year , loving not paying rent. More and more people are doing this
Some people are kind of critical of the choice to travel 1 on your own 2 in a van, but more people are inspired and excited about the freedom this kind of adventure affords.
@@theartistnextdoor1648 owning a home (paid off) is a huge safety net for your future no matter which way the world turns. living in a van is a massive risk if ever things destabilize.
I really was impressed with how you thought everything out and kept everything so clean. My concern, which you spoke about a little, is safety.
My concerns would be access to restrooms, showers. My husband is an over the road trucker and it isn't easy to always find a rest room or shower. They buy fuel at those truck stops she wouldn't. And some only let you park there if you purchased fuel or they charge now.
Of all the van life videos out there yours is by far one of my favorites! I love your zest for life and positive attitude. Your video is so informative and so useful. Thank you so much for sharing! Stay safe and travel on my friend. 🫶
These videos have given me a good idea on what to do. I plan on next year to visit all 75 Maryland state parks and some of them will require me to spend the night because of how far they are.
Love your videos.
Oh my! What a sweet woman, love your giggle and pure joy. The last two days, I've seen so many encouraging videos, I'm finally planning my first day trip in my Roadtrek...this week. Gotta get off me arse and just do it! Thank you so much. Would be such a pleasure to cross your path some day.😊💞 SOOO encouraging!!!
This woman is fascinating. So inspiring.
Good for you! Keep chasing those dreams. My main concern would be injuries or illnesses. I know that happens where ever you live, but being alone in a vehicle with a high fever needing a bathroom would be a big problem. She is a very resourceful person, and I'm sure she has contingent plans for this. Praying for good travelling and experiences for her. Live life big!
I'm doing it. April 1st I'm taking the plunge. Thanks for the video. Good ideas !
I Love You Lady, you're going for it, living your life I admire you and appreciate you. Because you're happy I can hear it in you're voice, please go to the Grand Canyon for you're hike! You are very inspiring, you tickle me because you have your van the way you like and you're so humble and enthusiastic I really like you!! Thanks A Lot!!!❤️